Few artists have blended soul, poetry, and raw emotion quite like Van Morrison. With a voice that can whisper like a breeze or roar like a storm, Morrison has spent over five decades crafting songs that feel both timeless and deeply personal. From the mystical realms of Astral Weeks to the soulful grooves of Moondance, his music transcends genre—melding rock, jazz, folk, and rhythm & blues into a sound that is uniquely his own. Whether he’s singing about spiritual journeys, wild nights, or sweet love, Morrison’s lyrics are rich with imagery and his melodies unforgettable.
In this article, we dive into the top 10 most popular Van Morrison songs of all time—not just the biggest hits, but the tracks that have etched themselves into the hearts of fans around the world. These are the songs that defined eras, inspired countless covers, and continue to resonate across generations. From the anthemic to the intimate, each track tells a story, capturing the essence of one of music’s most enigmatic and enduring legends. So turn up the speakers, pour yourself a glass of something smooth, and let’s explore the songs that made Van Morrison a true icon.
1. Brown Eyed Girl (1967)
“Brown Eyed Girl,” released in 1967 on Van Morrison’s debut solo album Blowin’ Your Mind!, remains one of the most enduring pop songs of its era—and one of the most recognizable of Morrison’s career. Bursting with youthful energy, its bright guitar riff and catchy melody evoke the carefree spirit of summer romance. The song, which was originally titled “Brown-Skinned Girl,” was slightly altered before release, but its joyous tone remained untouched. With elements of pop, R&B, and rock blended seamlessly, the track climbed the charts and helped launch Morrison into the mainstream. Lyrically, it’s a nostalgic reflection on young love and innocence, peppered with vivid imagery that transports listeners back to simpler times. Morrison’s vocal delivery is simultaneously relaxed and emotionally charged, striking a perfect balance between sentiment and rhythm. Despite Morrison’s later ambivalence toward the song—he’s referred to it as overplayed—it has never lost its charm or relevance. “Brown Eyed Girl” has become a radio staple, a jukebox favorite, and a soundtrack to countless summers. It captures the essence of nostalgia, reminding us all of first kisses, long-lost loves, and the golden glow of memory. It’s more than a hit—it’s a cultural time capsule set to music.
2. Moondance (1970)
“Moondance,” the title track from Van Morrison’s 1970 album, is an elegant blend of jazz, pop, and soul that has become a signature song in his vast catalog. With its velvety walking bassline, brushed percussion, and swinging melody, the song is as much a celebration of music itself as it is of romance. Morrison’s vocal phrasing dances lightly over the instrumentation, bringing to life the vivid, poetic lyrics that conjure up moonlit skies and nights brimming with enchantment. Lines like “a fantabulous night to make romance” feel playful and magical, perfectly capturing the mood. Interestingly, despite being one of the album’s standout tracks, “Moondance” wasn’t released as a single until 1977—seven years after the album’s release. Still, its reputation grew steadily thanks to airplay and word of mouth. The jazzy saxophone solo adds a sultry dimension, while Morrison’s smooth delivery gives the song a cinematic feel. “Moondance” is often cited as a quintessential example of Morrison’s ability to marry literary lyricism with genre-defying music. It’s sophisticated yet accessible, romantic without being cloying, and timeless in its appeal. Whether heard during a quiet evening or on a jazz playlist, it never fails to charm and impress.
3. Into the Mystic (1970)
“Into the Mystic,” also from the Moondance album, is one of Van Morrison’s most transcendent and soulful compositions. Released in 1970, this serene ballad feels like a journey—not just across the sea, as its imagery suggests, but deep into the heart and spirit. From its opening acoustic strums to the warm brass flourishes, the song exudes a gentle, meditative energy. Morrison sings of returning home, of sailing into the unknown with peace and purpose, using nautical metaphors to speak to the deeper currents of life and love. Lines like “We were born before the wind / Also younger than the sun” evoke timelessness, unity, and a spiritual sense of belonging. The song’s mellow tempo and organic instrumentation make it feel almost sacred, as if it were meant to be heard in a quiet, reflective space. “Into the Mystic” is often played at weddings, memorials, and spiritual ceremonies, attesting to its emotional resonance across generations. It’s a song that invites listeners to slow down and embrace the mysterious beauty of life. Morrison’s voice, tender yet weathered, guides the listener gently into introspection. More than just a love song, it’s a hymn to the soul’s journey.
4. Domino (1970)
“Domino,” released in 1970 on His Band and the Street Choir, is Van Morrison at his most electrifying. Unlike the introspective ballads and mystical musings he’s often known for, “Domino” explodes with energy and soul. The song opens with a tight, funky groove, quickly joined by a jubilant brass section and a rollicking piano line. Morrison’s vocals are full of spirit, his delivery loose and full of flair, capturing the gospel-tinged R&B vibe of the track. A tribute to legendary New Orleans musician Fats Domino, the song pays homage not through lyrics alone, but through style—channeling the joyous, danceable rhythms that defined Domino’s own hits. “Domino” reached No. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100, making it Morrison’s biggest U.S. hit. Its upbeat, feel-good sound makes it a natural standout in his catalog and a favorite for live performances. There’s a sense of spontaneity to the recording, as if Morrison and his band were simply caught up in the moment and hit “record.” That vitality is what makes “Domino” so memorable—it’s a celebration of rhythm, movement, and the irresistible joy of music played from the heart.
5. And It Stoned Me (1970)
Opening the Moondance album, “And It Stoned Me” sets the tone for Van Morrison’s most grounded and poetic work. Released in 1970, the song draws from Morrison’s childhood memories of fishing trips in Northern Ireland, transforming these simple moments into spiritual experiences. The phrase “it stoned me” refers not to drug use, but to the awe-inspiring power of nature and wonder. With a gentle folk-rock melody, accented by subtle horns and laid-back rhythm, the song captures the tranquility of open skies, mountain streams, and youthful innocence. Morrison’s voice is full of warmth as he sings about hitching a ride, drinking fresh water, and basking in the magic of the day. There’s a mythical quality to the storytelling—almost like a modern-day folk tale rooted in real memories. The song’s beauty lies in its simplicity and sincerity. It doesn’t try to dazzle with musical complexity, but rather invites the listener to slow down and appreciate life’s small, sacred moments. “And It Stoned Me” is Van Morrison at his most lyrical and nostalgic, a gentle reminder that sometimes the most profound experiences come when we least expect them—often in nature, and often in childhood.
6. Caravan (1970)
“Caravan,” another highlight from Van Morrison’s Moondance album, is a vibrant celebration of music’s unifying power. Released in 1970, the track brims with kinetic energy, driven by a chugging rhythm and bold brass section that conjure the feeling of a traveling band spreading joy from place to place. Morrison’s lyrics are steeped in bohemian mystique—he speaks of gypsies, radios, and the spirit of music transcending physical space. His impassioned plea, “Turn up your radio,” becomes a rallying cry for connection through sound. The song’s momentum builds with each verse, culminating in a cathartic, almost gospel-like climax. While the studio version is exhilarating, “Caravan” gained legendary status through Morrison’s performance in The Last Waltz (1978), where he joined The Band for a high-octane rendition in a sequined jumpsuit—an unforgettable moment that captured his raw charisma. That live performance helped immortalize the song, cementing it as a staple in Morrison’s concert repertoire. “Caravan” is more than just a song—it’s an anthem for the wandering spirit and a testament to the communal power of music. Whether played live or on record, it invites listeners to move, feel, and join the joyous procession.
7. Wild Night (1971)
Van Morrison’s “Wild Night,” the opening track on his 1971 album Tupelo Honey, bursts out of the speakers with infectious energy and swagger. Blending rock, soul, and a touch of funk, the song captures the exhilarating freedom of an untamed evening out. From the first punchy guitar riff to the thumping bassline, “Wild Night” demands movement. Morrison’s vocals are lively and loose, urging the listener to dive headfirst into the excitement of the night. His lyrics evoke streetlights, spontaneity, and the thrill of breaking from routine. It’s one of those rare tracks that feels both meticulously crafted and completely spontaneous—a tight composition that retains an air of unpredictability. The song saw renewed success decades later with a popular 1994 cover by John Mellencamp and Meshell Ndegeocello, but Morrison’s original remains the definitive version, crackling with raw charisma. “Wild Night” stands out in Morrison’s catalog for its sheer exuberance. It’s not just a story—it’s an invitation. With every beat, it dares you to forget your worries, let down your hair, and lose yourself in the rhythm of the evening. It’s a classic ode to the magic of nights that don’t go as planned—in the best way possible.
8. Tupelo Honey (1971)
“Tupelo Honey,” the glowing centerpiece and title track of Van Morrison’s 1971 album, is a deeply romantic ballad infused with warmth, sincerity, and a touch of Southern charm. Written as a tribute to his then-wife, Janet “Planet” Rigsbee, the song uses the sweetness of tupelo honey—a rare and prized syrup—as a metaphor for pure, enduring love. Morrison’s vocals are gentle and earnest, delivering heartfelt lines like “She’s as sweet as Tupelo honey / She’s an angel of the first degree” with tender conviction. Musically, the track leans into country-soul, featuring a mellow groove with rich piano, soft drumming, and elegant pedal steel guitar flourishes. Unlike some of Morrison’s more mystically inclined works, “Tupelo Honey” is grounded and accessible, yet no less poetic. It celebrates love not as grandiose or fleeting, but as something everyday and sacred. Its unpretentious beauty has made it a timeless wedding favorite and a touchstone for fans of Morrison’s softer side. “Tupelo Honey” proves that sometimes the most moving love songs are the quietest—the ones that whisper rather than shout, that glow rather than blaze. It’s a masterclass in understated devotion and emotional clarity.
9. Gloria (1964)
Before Van Morrison became known for his soulful solo work, he fronted the Belfast rock band Them, and in 1964, they released “Gloria”—a raw, electrifying anthem that became a cornerstone of garage rock. With its simple three-chord progression and raucous, shout-along chorus, the song radiates youthful rebellion. Morrison, just 19 at the time, infused the track with sneering charisma, delivering the now-iconic “G-L-O-R-I-A!” refrain with punk-like attitude long before punk existed. Though “Gloria” didn’t chart as high initially, its influence was seismic. It quickly became a staple in rock clubs and inspired cover versions by legends like The Doors, Patti Smith, and Jimi Hendrix. Its minimalism was its strength—raw guitar, gritty vocals, and a tight rhythm that made it easy to play and impossible to forget. Over the decades, “Gloria” has become one of the most covered songs in rock history and remains a rite of passage for aspiring garage bands. It’s more than a song; it’s a battle cry of rock ‘n’ roll freedom. In just a few minutes, Morrison created a timeless anthem that encapsulates teenage lust, raw energy, and the enduring power of three-chord brilliance.
10. Crazy Love (1970)
“Crazy Love,” from Van Morrison’s celebrated Moondance album, reveals the softer, more vulnerable side of the Irish singer-songwriter. Released in 1970, this tender ballad is a minimalist masterpiece—gentle, intimate, and deeply moving. Built around a delicate acoustic guitar, understated piano, and warm backing harmonies, the song leaves plenty of space for Morrison’s voice to shine. And shine it does—his delivery is hushed, affectionate, and full of heartfelt emotion. “She gives me love, love, love, love, crazy love,” he sings with quiet awe, as though still marveling at the depth of connection he feels. The song’s strength lies in its simplicity—it doesn’t try to impress with technical flourish, but instead touches the heart with its sincerity and softness. Over time, “Crazy Love” has become a go-to track for weddings, love playlists, and covers by artists ranging from Ray Charles to Michael Bublé. It endures because it speaks to something universal: the comfort, joy, and healing power of unconditional love. “Crazy Love” is more than just a love song—it’s a whispered promise, a gentle reminder of the beauty found in the tenderest of human emotions.
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.
