Van Morrison is a Northern Irish singer-songwriter and musician who has been a prominent figure in the music industry for over five decades. Born on August 31, 1945, in Belfast, Northern Ireland, Morrison rose to fame in the 1960s as the lead singer of the band Them, known for hits such as “Gloria” and “Here Comes the Night.”
Morrison embarked on a successful solo career in the late 1960s and early 1970s, releasing critically acclaimed albums such as “Astral Weeks” (1968) and “Moondance” (1970). His music incorporates a wide range of influences, including rock, blues, folk, jazz, and soul, and he is known for his distinctive voice, poetic lyrics, and soulful performances.
Throughout his career, Morrison has released numerous hit songs and albums, including “Brown Eyed Girl,” “Into the Mystic,” “Wild Night,” and “Have I Told You Lately.” He has received multiple Grammy Awards and other honors for his contributions to music.
Morrison’s music has had a lasting impact on popular culture and has inspired generations of musicians across various genres. He continues to record and perform live, maintaining a dedicated fan base around the world.
1. Brown Eyed Girl
“Brown Eyed Girl” is a classic song by Van Morrison, released in 1967 as a single from his album “Blowin’ Your Mind!” The song is known for its catchy melody, upbeat rhythm, and nostalgic lyrics. It’s about Morrison’s fond memories of a young romance, specifically focusing on the joy and innocence of youth. The song’s cheerful tone and sing-along quality have made it a beloved classic, often played at weddings, parties, and other celebratory events.
2. Moondance
“Moondance” is another iconic song by Van Morrison, released in 1970 as the title track of his album “Moondance.” It’s a jazzy, soulful tune that features Morrison’s distinctive voice and a lush arrangement with elements of jazz, pop, and R&B.
The song’s lyrics evoke a romantic and dreamy atmosphere, describing a night of dancing under the moonlight. Morrison’s smooth vocals, combined with the song’s infectious groove and elegant instrumentation, create a timeless and enchanting mood that has captivated listeners for decades.
“Moondance” is widely regarded as one of Van Morrison’s signature songs and has been covered by numerous artists across various genres. Its enduring popularity and timeless appeal have cemented its status as a classic in the realm of popular music.
3. Into the Mystic
“Into the Mystic” is yet another standout song by Van Morrison, released in 1970 as part of his album “Moondance.” It’s a soulful and introspective track that showcases Morrison’s poetic lyricism and emotive vocal delivery.
The song’s lyrics evoke a sense of longing, spirituality, and connection to the natural world. The imagery of sailing into the mystic ocean and being reunited with loved ones creates a profound and mystical atmosphere.
“Into the Mystic” is characterized by its haunting melody, beautiful instrumentation, and heartfelt sincerity. It’s often regarded as one of Van Morrison’s greatest works and has been covered by many artists, further cementing its status as a timeless classic in the realm of folk and rock music.
4. Have I Told You Lately
“Have I Told You Lately” is a beautiful love song written by Van Morrison. It was first released on his 1989 album “Avalon Sunset.” The song has become one of Morrison’s most popular and enduring hits.
The lyrics express deep affection and gratitude towards a loved one. The singer reflects on their feelings, expressing how much they cherish the person and how important they are in their life. The refrain, “Have I told you lately that I love you,” serves as a heartfelt reminder of the importance of expressing love and appreciation in a relationship.
“Have I Told You Lately” has been covered by numerous artists and has become a popular choice for weddings and romantic occasions due to its tender sentiment and timeless melody. It’s a testament to Morrison’s songwriting talent and his ability to capture universal emotions in his music.
5. Domino
“Domino” is a song by Northern Irish singer-songwriter Van Morrison, released on his 1970 album “His Band and the Street Choir.” It’s one of Morrison’s most well-known and beloved tracks, showcasing his unique blend of soul, R&B, and folk influences.
Lyrically, “Domino” is a joyful and exuberant celebration of love and life. The song’s lyrics evoke a sense of carefree abandon and revelry, with Morrison singing about dancing, singing, and enjoying the company of others.
Musically, “Domino” features a catchy melody, infectious rhythm, and energetic horn arrangements. The song’s upbeat tempo and vibrant instrumentation make it a favorite for listeners to dance and sing along to.
“Domino” has become one of Van Morrison’s signature songs and a classic in the rock and soul genres. Its timeless appeal and infectious groove continue to captivate audiences around the world, making it a staple of Morrison’s live performances and a favorite on classic rock radio.
6. Wild Night
“Wild Night” is a song written by Van Morrison, which was originally released in 1971 on his album “Tupelo Honey.” It’s a lively and upbeat rock song with elements of R&B and soul.
The lyrics of “Wild Night” depict a carefree and exhilarating night of dancing and romance. The song’s infectious groove, catchy melody, and energetic vocals contribute to its celebratory vibe, making it a favorite among fans of Morrison’s music.
“Wild Night” has been covered by various artists over the years, including John Mellencamp, who had a hit with his version in 1994. The song’s timeless appeal and joyful spirit continue to resonate with audiences, cementing its status as a classic in the rock and roll canon.
7. Gloria
“Gloria” is a song originally written by Northern Irish musician Van Morrison and first recorded by his band Them in 1964. It’s one of the most iconic songs in rock music history and has been covered by numerous artists over the years.
Lyrically, “Gloria” is a simple and infectious rock and roll anthem. The song’s lyrics revolve around a lustful desire for a woman named Gloria, with the narrator expressing his longing and admiration for her.
Musically, “Gloria” features a driving rhythm, catchy guitar riff, and energetic vocals. The song’s raw energy and infectious melody helped establish it as a classic of the genre, with its instantly recognizable opening riff becoming one of the most iconic in rock music.
“Gloria” has been covered by countless artists across various genres, including The Doors, Patti Smith, and Jimi Hendrix, among others. It remains a staple of classic rock radio and a favorite among fans of rock and roll music for its timeless appeal and undeniable energy.
8. Caravan
“Caravan” is a jazz standard composed by Juan Tizol and Duke Ellington, with lyrics by Irving Mills. It was first recorded by Ellington’s band, the Duke Ellington Orchestra, in 1936. The song is known for its exotic and rhythmic melody, which incorporates elements of Latin and Middle Eastern music.
“Caravan” has since become a jazz standard, covered by numerous artists in various styles and genres. It’s often performed as an instrumental piece, showcasing improvisational skills and creative interpretations by musicians.
The song’s captivating rhythm and evocative melody have made it a favorite among jazz enthusiasts and performers alike, ensuring its enduring popularity in the world of music.
9. Tupelo Honey
“Tupelo Honey” is a song by Van Morrison, released on his 1971 album of the same name. It’s a soulful and heartfelt ballad that’s often considered one of Morrison’s signature songs.
The lyrics of “Tupelo Honey” evoke feelings of love, devotion, and gratitude. The imagery of honey from the tupelo tree is used as a metaphor for the sweetness and purity of the love the singer feels for their partner. The song’s gentle melody, accompanied by acoustic guitar and strings, adds to its intimate and romantic atmosphere.
“Tupelo Honey” has become one of Van Morrison’s most beloved and enduring songs, praised for its emotional depth and sincerity. It has been covered by various artists and remains a favorite among fans of Morrison’s music.
10. Bright Side of the Road
“Bright Side of the Road” is a song by Van Morrison, released on his 1979 album “Into the Music.” It’s one of Morrison’s most uplifting and optimistic tracks, known for its joyful melody and positive lyrics.
Lyrically, “Bright Side of the Road” is a celebration of life’s simple pleasures and the power of positivity. The song’s lyrics express gratitude for the good things in life and encourage listeners to focus on the bright side, even in the face of adversity.
Musically, “Bright Side of the Road” features a catchy melody, lively rhythm, and soulful vocals. The song’s upbeat tempo and infectious groove make it a favorite for listeners to dance and sing along to.
“Bright Side of the Road” has become one of Van Morrison’s signature songs and a beloved classic in the folk-rock genre. Its timeless message of optimism and resilience continues to resonate with audiences around the world, making it a staple of Morrison’s live performances and a favorite on classic rock radio.
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.
