Van Morrison is a musical legend whose rich blend of rock, jazz, blues, and soul has captivated audiences for over five decades. His unmistakable voice, poetic lyrics, and genre-defying sound have earned him a place among the greatest songwriters and performers of all time. From timeless anthems of love and nostalgia to deeply spiritual explorations, Morrison’s catalog is vast and filled with gems that have become iconic pieces of music history. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just beginning to dive into his work, there are certain songs that stand out as essential listening, tracks that have shaped not just his career, but the entire landscape of popular music. In this list, we’ll take a journey through the top 10 most popular Van Morrison songs of all time—songs that have defined his legacy and continue to resonate with fans around the world. From the universally beloved “Brown Eyed Girl” to the mystical allure of “Into the Mystic,” these songs capture the essence of Van Morrison’s extraordinary artistry. So, get ready to rediscover the magic of his music and experience why these tracks remain timeless classics.
1. “Brown Eyed Girl” (1967)
Van Morrison’s “Brown Eyed Girl” is arguably his most iconic track, bursting onto the scene in the summer of 1967. With its infectious melody and irresistible chorus, it became an instant classic, a perfect blend of pop and rock with a touch of Caribbean rhythm. The song’s nostalgic tale of young love, carefree days, and a sense of innocence captured the spirit of the late 60s. Its catchy “Sha la la la la la la la la la la tee da” refrain is universally recognized, making it a staple at weddings, parties, and radio playlists to this day. Despite Morrison’s later ambivalence toward the song’s commercial success, “Brown Eyed Girl” remains a timeless anthem that transcends generations.
2. “Moondance” (1970)
Released in 1970, “Moondance” is a jazz-infused masterpiece that showcases Van Morrison’s versatility as a songwriter and musician. With a sultry, swinging groove, the song evokes images of romance under a moonlit sky. The instrumentation is lush, featuring a blend of piano, flute, and jazz bass, while Morrison’s smooth, soulful vocals glide effortlessly over the arrangement. Lyrically, it’s a celebration of love and nature, perfectly capturing the magic of a romantic evening. “Moondance” has become one of his most beloved songs, often cited as a standard in both jazz and pop music, and remains a fan favorite during live performances.
3. “Into the Mystic” (1970)
“Into the Mystic”, from the Moondance album (1970), is a spiritual and poetic journey that showcases Van Morrison’s ability to evoke deep emotion through both lyrics and melody. The song’s gentle acoustic guitar and soulful horns create a dreamlike atmosphere, while Morrison’s voice, filled with longing and wonder, sings of a mystical voyage. The lyrics, rich with imagery of the sea and the wind, invite listeners to lose themselves in the beauty of nature and the unknown. “Into the Mystic” has become a classic for its timeless themes of peace, introspection, and connection to something greater than oneself.
4. “Have I Told You Lately” (1989)
Released in 1989 on the Avalon Sunset album, “Have I Told You Lately” is a heartfelt ballad that has become one of Van Morrison’s most cherished love songs. With its warm melody and tender lyrics, the song feels like a quiet, intimate conversation between lovers. While often interpreted as a romantic tune, Morrison has mentioned that the song also carries spiritual undertones, with its praise and gratitude echoing a deeper connection to a higher power. The track’s universal message of love and appreciation has led to countless covers by artists across genres, cementing its place as a modern classic.
5. “Domino” (1970)
“Domino”, from the 1970 album His Band and the Street Choir, is a lively and upbeat track that saw Van Morrison embracing his R&B influences with a joyful energy. The song’s rhythmic pulse, driven by a funky horn section and Morrison’s enthusiastic vocals, creates an irresistible groove that makes you want to get up and dance. Lyrically, “Domino” doesn’t take itself too seriously, focusing on the simple joys of life and music. The track became one of Morrison’s biggest hits in the U.S., charting highly and showcasing his ability to blend genres seamlessly, from rock to soul to jazz.
6. “Gloria” (1964)
Originally recorded with his band Them in 1964, “Gloria” is a raw, electrifying anthem that became a defining track of the garage rock genre. With its straightforward three-chord progression and Morrison’s passionate, almost rebellious vocals, the song quickly became a staple for rock bands of the era. Its simple yet powerful chorus, where Morrison spells out “G-L-O-R-I-A”, is instantly recognizable and has been covered by countless artists over the decades. “Gloria” is a perfect example of Morrison’s early ability to channel raw emotion into his music, making it a timeless rock classic.
7. “Wild Night” (1971)
“Wild Night”, from the 1971 album Tupelo Honey, is a spirited, upbeat track that fuses rock with a bit of funk and soul. The song’s vibrant energy is contagious, driven by a jaunty bassline and Morrison’s exuberant vocals. Lyrically, it captures the excitement and liberation of heading out for a night on the town, filled with possibilities and spontaneity. “Wild Night” stands out in Morrison’s catalog for its lively and carefree vibe, and it remains a fan favorite, later made even more popular by a successful cover by John Mellencamp and Meshell Ndegeocello in the 1990s.
8. “Tupelo Honey” (1971)
The title track from the 1971 album Tupelo Honey is a tender and soulful love song that beautifully encapsulates the sweetness and purity of true love. Van Morrison’s smooth vocals glide over a warm, relaxed melody, and the lyrics paint a picture of love as natural, effortless, and eternal. The comparison of a lover to “Tupelo honey”, the sweetest honey in the world, is a striking metaphor that has resonated with listeners for decades. The song’s timeless quality and serene beauty have made it one of Morrison’s most enduring and beloved ballads.
9. “Bright Side of the Road” (1979)
Released in 1979 as part of the Into the Music album, “Bright Side of the Road” is an uplifting and optimistic tune that radiates positivity. With its lively rhythm, catchy chorus, and joyful lyrics, the song encourages listeners to embrace life’s brighter moments and leave their troubles behind. The upbeat tempo and Morrison’s spirited performance make it an instant mood-lifter. The song’s message of hope and renewal is simple yet powerful, and it stands as one of his most accessible and feel-good tracks, often used in film soundtracks and TV shows to evoke a sense of joy and celebration.
10. “Days Like This” (1995)
“Days Like This”, the title track from Van Morrison’s 1995 album, is a reflective and hopeful song that celebrates the good times in life. With its laid-back groove and comforting lyrics, the song reassures listeners that, despite life’s challenges, better days are always just around the corner. The chorus, “When it’s not always raining, there’ll be days like this,” reflects a sense of resilience and optimism that resonates deeply. The track became an anthem of positivity and was even adopted as a symbol of peace during the Northern Ireland peace process, further cementing its cultural significance.