Van Morrison is one of the most legendary and influential singer-songwriters in music history. With a career spanning over six decades, his unmistakable voice, poetic lyricism, and genre-blending sound have left an indelible mark on rock, blues, jazz, and soul. Whether delivering heartfelt ballads, soul-stirring anthems, or energetic rock-infused hits, Morrison’s music has an enduring magic that transcends generations.
From the timeless romance of “Moondance” to the raw energy of “Gloria”, his songs have become soundtracks to love, nostalgia, and self-discovery. His ability to weave storytelling with melody has made him a favorite for music lovers worldwide. Whether you first heard “Brown Eyed Girl” on the radio or fell in love with “Into the Mystic” during a quiet evening, his music has a way of staying with you.
In this list, we’ll dive into Van Morrison’s 10 most popular songs, exploring what makes each track so unforgettable. These songs have defined his career, shaped the sound of modern music, and continue to inspire new generations. So, get ready to immerse yourself in the soulful world of Van Morrison as we count down the greatest hits from this musical icon! 🎶
1. Brown Eyed Girl (1967)
Few songs capture the spirit of nostalgia and young love quite like Van Morrison’s Brown Eyed Girl. Released in 1967 as part of his debut solo album Blowin’ Your Mind!, this timeless classic quickly became a defining track in rock and pop music. With its breezy melody, infectious guitar riff, and joyful chorus, the song evokes memories of carefree summer days and first romances. Its universal appeal has made it a staple at weddings, road trips, and backyard gatherings. Interestingly, Morrison originally titled the song Brown-Skinned Girl but changed it to make it more radio-friendly. Despite the song’s massive popularity, Morrison himself has expressed ambivalence about it, feeling that it overshadows the rest of his catalog. Still, there’s no denying that Brown Eyed Girl remains one of the most instantly recognizable and beloved songs in music history.
2. Moondance (1970)
Few songs showcase Van Morrison’s genre-blending talent as seamlessly as Moondance. Released in 1970 as the title track of his iconic album, this smooth, jazzy tune fuses elements of swing, pop, and soul. The song’s sultry saxophone solo and bouncing rhythm create a rich atmosphere, conjuring images of romantic moonlit nights. Lyrically, Moondance is a poetic celebration of love and nature, perfectly capturing the magic of an intimate evening under the stars. Though it wasn’t initially released as a single, it became one of Morrison’s most treasured songs, frequently covered by artists across various genres. Whether played in a dimly lit jazz club or on a peaceful night drive, Moondance never fails to cast its spell on listeners.
3. Into the Mystic (1970)
Deeply evocative and spiritually moving, Into the Mystic is a standout track from Morrison’s 1970 album Moondance. This soulful ballad transports listeners on an ethereal journey, blending folk, R&B, and poetic lyricism to create a dreamlike experience. Morrison’s impassioned vocal delivery, paired with a warm arrangement of acoustic guitar and horns, gives the song a transcendent quality. The lyrics, which reference sailing and the sea, have been widely interpreted as metaphors for life’s journey and the pursuit of something greater. Many fans find Into the Mystic to be one of Morrison’s most deeply emotional and meaningful works, a song that resonates on a personal level with those longing for adventure, love, or spiritual awakening.
4. Have I Told You Lately (1989)
One of Van Morrison’s most tender and heartfelt compositions, Have I Told You Lately is a song of pure devotion. Released in 1989 on Avalon Sunset, this deeply romantic ballad expresses gratitude and love in a way that feels both personal and universal. The gentle melody, combined with Morrison’s soulful delivery, makes it a perfect soundtrack for weddings, anniversaries, and quiet moments of reflection. The song’s gospel-inspired arrangement adds an uplifting, spiritual touch, reinforcing its theme of appreciation and unwavering affection. Though Rod Stewart’s 1993 cover brought it to an even wider audience, Morrison’s original version remains the definitive take, radiating warmth and sincerity.
5. Domino (1970)
Released as the lead single from His Band and the Street Choir in 1970, Domino is one of Van Morrison’s most high-energy, feel-good tracks. With a vibrant horn section, an irresistible groove, and a lively vocal performance, the song pays tribute to New Orleans rock legend Fats Domino. Unlike Morrison’s more introspective songs, Domino bursts with pure joy and spontaneity, making it one of his most danceable hits. It became one of his highest-charting songs in the U.S., further proving his ability to merge rock, R&B, and soul with effortless ease. Even decades later, Domino remains a go-to track for anyone looking to brighten their mood.
6. Crazy Love (1970)
Soft, intimate, and deeply romantic, Crazy Love is one of Van Morrison’s most heartfelt songs. Featured on the Moondance album, this delicate ballad strips away all excess, relying solely on warm acoustic instrumentation and Morrison’s soul-stirring vocals. The lyrics, filled with sincerity and devotion, perfectly capture the essence of unconditional love, making the song a favorite choice for weddings and personal moments of connection. Over the years, Crazy Love has been covered by numerous artists, but Morrison’s original recording remains unmatched in its tenderness and raw emotion.
7. Gloria (1964)
Long before Van Morrison became known for his solo work, he fronted the Belfast band Them, and it was with Them that he recorded one of the most iconic garage rock songs of all time—Gloria. Released in 1964, the song is built on a simple three-chord structure but packs a punch with its raw energy and rebellious spirit. Morrison’s passionate, almost sneering vocal delivery, combined with the song’s unforgettable chorus, turned Gloria into a rock anthem. Over the years, it has been covered by countless artists, including Patti Smith and The Doors, cementing its status as a foundational track in rock history. Whether played in a smoky bar or blasted through speakers at full volume, Gloria still captures the essence of youthful defiance.
8. Tupelo Honey (1971)
A love song as sweet as its namesake, Tupelo Honey is one of Morrison’s most beautifully poetic ballads. Released in 1971, the song draws upon gospel, folk, and R&B influences to create a warm and soulful sound. The lyrics use the rare and delicate Tupelo honey as a metaphor for pure, unconditional love, and Morrison’s vocals exude sincerity and devotion. The song’s gentle piano introduction, rich instrumentation, and heartfelt lyrics make it an enduring favorite among fans. Whether played during a romantic evening or as a soundtrack to life’s quiet moments, Tupelo Honey continues to enchant listeners with its timeless charm.
9. Someone Like You (1987)
Released on Poetic Champions Compose in 1987, Someone Like You is one of Van Morrison’s most touching and romantic songs. This piano-driven ballad captures the deep longing and joy of finding true love, with Morrison’s warm, emotive voice bringing the lyrics to life. Over the years, it has become a favorite choice for wedding ceremonies and movie soundtracks, solidifying its place as one of his most beloved love songs. The song’s simple yet profound message resonates with listeners of all generations, proving that Morrison’s ability to capture human emotion in song remains unmatched.
10. Wild Night (1971)
If there’s a song in Morrison’s catalog that demands you to get up and move, it’s Wild Night. Released in 1971 on the Tupelo Honey album, this electrifying track combines rock, R&B, and funk in an exhilarating blend. Driven by a funky bassline, energetic horns, and Morrison’s dynamic vocal delivery, Wild Night perfectly captures the thrill of an exciting night out. Its infectious groove has made it a favorite among fans, and its enduring popularity was reignited when John Mellencamp and Me’Shell Ndegeocello released a successful cover in the ’90s. Whether listening to the original or a later rendition, Wild Night remains an irresistible anthem of youthful energy and excitement.
Samuel Moore 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.
