Van Morrison, born George Ivan Morrison on August 31, 1945, in Belfast, Northern Ireland, is a revered singer, songwriter, and musician. Known for his distinctive voice, poetic lyrics, and soulful blend of genres, Morrison has had a profound impact on the world of music.
Morrison’s music spans various genres, including rock, R&B, folk, blues, and jazz. With his soulful, emotive vocals and introspective songwriting, he has created a rich and diverse discography. Hits like “Brown Eyed Girl,” “Moondance,” and “Into the Mystic” have become timeless classics, beloved by fans around the globe.
Throughout his career, Morrison’s songwriting has delved into a wide range of themes, including love, spirituality, and social commentary. His ability to evoke emotions through his lyrics, combined with his dynamic vocal performances, sets him apart as a true musical artist.
Morrison’s exploration of different musical styles and his willingness to take risks have led to the creation of acclaimed albums such as “Astral Weeks” and “Saint Dominic’s Preview.” These albums showcase his mastery of blending genres and pushing the boundaries of his sound.
His distinctive fusion of soul, folk, and Celtic influences, along with his deeply personal and introspective approach to songwriting, have earned Morrison critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base. He has been honored with multiple awards, including induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Van Morrison’s musical career, spanning over five decades, has left an indelible mark on the music world. His soulful voice, poetic lyrics, and willingness to explore different genres have established him as one of the most influential and respected musicians of his generation. With a legacy of timeless songs, Morrison continues to inspire and captivate audiences with his incomparable musical artistry.
1. Dweller on The Threshold
Van Morrison's artistic legacy includes the enigmatic composition "Dweller on the Threshold," a soul scraping exploration of spirituality and mysticism. The song has become one of his most lyrical, spiritual, and emotional pieces.
With haunting vocals that somehow manage to convey both hopelessness and optimism, "Dweller on the Threshold" is a poignant example of Morrison's poetic abilities. Through its evocative lyrics and impassioned performance, one cannot help but feel inspired by the depth of emotion conveyed in this powerful piece.
Adding to its resonant power are the contributions of a talented backup band that manages to perfectly complement Morrison's compelling vocals with their own artistry on instruments such as guitar and saxophone.
It is worth noting that "Dweller on the Threshold" proves a standout in Morrison's already impressive oeuvre. Demonstrating an ability to create musical experiences rich in symbolism, poetry, and sheer emotional force; it stands as a testament to his particular genius as an artist.
In fact, according to those close to Morrison at the time of recording "Dweller on The Threshold," he was going through an especially difficult period emotionally, with friends describing him as struggling with depression during the time he penned much of its lyrics. Despite this however, Van Morrison’s uncompromising dedication to his craft meant that he was still able to produce seminal work like "Dweller."
Van Morrison's 'In The Garden' will make you feel like you're sitting in a mystical meadow, even if you're just stuck in traffic.
2. In The Garden
In the Garden is one of Van Morrison's classics that captivates listeners with its soulful melody. It's a song that finds its way into many favorite playlists over time.
- The song was released in 1986 as part of an album entitled 'No Guru, No Method, No Teacher'.
- In The Garden showcases Morrison's deep and stirring voice, which blends perfectly with the backing choir to create beautiful harmonies.
- The lyrics are deeply spiritual and this creates a spiritual atmosphere for listeners when they listen to the song.
- One notable line from the song reads "we shall walk and talk in gardens all misty/wet with rain”, it carries a serene feeling that warms up the heart of anyone who hears it.
- In The Garden is a perfect example of Morrison's creativity as he blends different genres such as rock, gospel, and blues seamlessly into one amazing masterpiece.
- The track has been influential on upcoming artists who have covered the song.
Listening to In The Garden can introduce you to a different kind of musical genius; Van Morrison captures the soul perfectly but also injects timeless themes into his music that end up drawing people closer to epicenters of emotions.
Pro-Tip: Take some time and really listen to each instrument playing; you will uncover hidden rhythms that make this song even more magical.
She may have inspired one of Van Morrison's biggest hits, but let's face it, there's only so many times you can hear 'Sha la la la la la la la la la la te da' before going crazy.
3. Brown Eyed Girl
One of Van Morrison's most recognized and cherished songs, this track is easily recognizable for its catchy melody and upbeat rhythm. 'Brown Eyed Girl', with its relatable lyrics and musicality, has become a timeless classic loved by audiences worldwide. The song is the epitome of Morrison's musical style with a blend of folk, rock and roll, R&B, and soul genres. The track has an enduring charm that is both nostalgic and vibrant.
As one listens to Brown Eyed Girl, it's clear that the song captures the essence of youthful romance in a way that resonates deeply with listeners across different generations. The upbeat melodies blend seamlessly with Morrison's unique croons to create an unforgettable listening experience. The infectious chorus- "Sha-la-la-la-la-la-la-la-la-te-da"- makes this song an all-time favorite for everyone who loves good music.
Interestingly enough, Brown Eyed Girl was not an instant success as it took several years for the song to gain widespread popularity after its initial release. Despite the slow start, Morrison's efforts paid off as 'Brown Eyed Girl' went on to become one of his most successful tracks.
If you haven't listened to Brown Eyed Girl yet, do yourself a favor by checking out this iconic hit today!
Listening to 'Someone Like You' by Van Morrison is like being hugged by a warm, familiar sweater you forgot you owned.
4. Someone Like You
This song is one of the best Van Morrison has ever produced. It oozes with heartfelt lyrics and beautiful melody that touch the soul. "Someone Like You" showcases the artist's true talent as a singer and songwriter, revealing his ability to convey powerful emotions through music. With its hauntingly beautiful sound and deeply personal lyrics, this track has become a timeless classic loved by fans worldwide.
The track begins with a simple guitar riff which is soon joined by Morrison's soulful voice. The song's slow pace works perfectly with the message of love and loss it portrays, creating an intense emotional connection with listeners. The refrain "I've been searching a long time for someone exactly like you" resonates deeply with anyone who has ever searched for true love.
It is interesting to note that the song was written in tribute to Van Morrison's wife at that time but it became more popular through Adele's cover version during her live sessions on YouTube in 2011. Today "Someone Like You" remains one of the most beloved songs ever recorded by Van Morrison.
If Van Morrison's voice was a warm hug, 'Have I Told You Lately' would be the cozy blanket to wrap yourself in.
5. Have I Told You Lately
This track, penned by Van Morrison and released in 1989, is a timeless classic that has withstood the test of time. With its tender lyrics and lilting melody, 'Have I Told You Lately' expresses love and gratitude towards a significant other. The song quickly became a fan favorite and has since remained one of Morrison's most beloved ballads.
The song's simple yet powerful message strikes a chord with listeners around the world. The opening lines "Have I told you lately that I love you? / Have I told you there's no one else above you?" are instantly recognizable and have been used in countless wedding ceremonies and romantic moments.
Additionally, the instrumentation is expertly crafted, featuring lush acoustic guitar and piano that perfectly complement Morrison's emotive vocals. It's no wonder why this track remains a staple on any 'best-of' list of Van Morrison's songs.
For those who have not yet had the pleasure of experiencing this masterpiece, we highly recommend giving it a listen. You won't want to miss out on such an iconic moment in music history.
Van Morrison's 'And It Stoned Me' is like a musical version of a warm hug and a joint, offering comfort and relaxation in equal measure.
6. And It Stoned Me
Morrison's warm voice complements the soothing melody and instrumentation beautifully. The guitar riffs combined with jazzy horns create a nostalgic vibe. In essence, 'And It Stoned Me' represents how such small moments from our past can spark emotions and vivid memories even years later.
Interestingly enough, this track has been covered by different artists over the years, including Bob Dylan and Phil Lesh – proving its timelessness and versatility as a piece of music history.
If Van Morrison's 'Crazy Love' doesn't make you want to slow dance with a stranger, you're clearly not drinking enough.
7. Crazy Love
This Van Morrison classic showcases his soulful crooning and impeccable songwriting skills. Its contagious chorus and tender lyrics about the madness of love make 'Crazy Love' a timeless ballad. Morrison's ability to fuse R&B, folk, and rock elements in this track sets it apart from his other works, making it a must-listen for any fan of the legendary singer-songwriter.
As Morrison sings: "I can hear her heart beat for a thousand miles / And the heavens open every time she smiles," one cannot help but be swayed by the beauty of love portrayed in this piece. The calming saxophone solo at the bridge adds a touch of nostalgia to 'Crazy Love,' making it an emotionally resonant composition.
If you are new to Van Morrison's music, this is undoubtedly one song worth starting with.
Pro Tip: Try listening to 'Crazy Love' in different moods – happy or sad – to fully appreciate its depth and versatility as a romantic ballad for all occasions.
Consider this song the honey to your ears, but watch out for the bees in the bridge.
8. Tupelo Honey
Van Morrison's 'Tupelo Honey' is a timeless classic and one of the best songs in his repertoire. This song showcases Van Morrison's exceptional artistry and lyrical prowess, making it a fan favourite.
- The iconic opening guitar riff sets the tone for the entire song
- Morrison's soulful delivery of the lyrics resonates with listeners even after all these years
- The use of vivid imagery, especially comparing his lover to "a thousand honeydew"
- Its unique blend of folk, country, and rock influences appeals to fans from various genres
- The song continues to inspire covers by contemporary artists across the globe.
Listeners will be captivated by how Morrison captures their emotions effortlessly throughout the song. What makes this track so enchanting is its ability to make us feel nostalgic while remaining ever-relevant.
To truly appreciate 'Tupelo Honey', one must listen with undivided attention. The subtle nuances in the music emphasise each line's significance, culminating in a beautiful experience that only Van Morrison can offer.
For those looking to delve deeper into Van Morrison's discography, 'Tupelo Honey' should be at the top of their playlist. It offers a perfect example of his craft and immediately establishes why he remains relevant today.
To get more out of this classic tune, we suggest attending live performances or exploring alternate versions available on streaming platforms. Each new interpretation offers something exciting for fans familiar with previous versions or just discovering this wonderful artist.
Days like this make me want to curl up with Van Morrison and reminisce about the good old days, even if I wasn't alive for them.
9. Days Like This
This classic by Van Morrison, known as the ninth best on his list, 'Days Like This', showcases the beauty of simplicity in lyrics and melody. The song revolves around the idea that sometimes it's the smallest things that make life worth living. It talks about the joys of finding love, spending time with loved ones, and cherishing every passing moment. The nostalgic tone of this masterpiece resonates with audiences of all ages and reminds us to be grateful for life's simplest pleasures.
Morrison's soulful delivery combined with a simple yet catchy melody makes this track a fan favorite. The accompanying instruments complement his voice perfectly, making the listening experience even more pleasurable. The lyrics are optimistic yet realistic, touching upon themes that anyone can relate to.
Although Days Like This holds a special place in Morrison's repertoire, it's often overshadowed by some of his other hits. Nonetheless, its timeless message and simplistic beauty have made it one of his most memorable tracks.
Pro Tip: Listening to Days Like This on a lazy Sunday afternoon is the perfect way to unwind and reflect on all the little joys in life.
Van Morrison will take you on a mystical journey with this tune, just be sure to bring a map and GPS in case you get lost in the enchanting melody.
10. Into The Mystic
Van Morrison's unique and soulful vocals make 'Into The Mystic' a timeless classic. With hints of mysticism and spirituality, the song draws listeners in with its beautiful lyrics and melodic instrumentals. As the tenth best song in Van Morrison's repertoire, it continues to mesmerize audiences around the world.
The song begins with gentle strumming of guitar chords that are soon replaced by the sweet sounds of a flute. The combination of musical elements is soothing and invokes feelings of tranquility within the listener. Van Morrison's vocals come in next, overflowing with emotion as he sings about wandering into an enchanted world beyond this one. The beautiful harmonies blend seamlessly into the chorus as he repeats, "We were born before the wind, also younger than the sun".
One of the unique features of 'Into The Mystic' is its mysterious vibe – drawing on references to folklore and mythical creatures like seagulls and whales. Van Morrison masterfully mixes these ideas to create an undeniable sense of enchantment that continues throughout the song.
If you haven't yet had a chance to listen to 'Into The Mystic', you're truly missing out on an unforgettable listening experience. This Van Morrison classic should be at the top of any music lover's playlist – offering glimpses into other worlds that feel impossible to resist.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
