Van Morrison is a force of nature—part poet, part soul singer, and entirely original. With a voice that drips with emotion and lyrics that blend mysticism, romance, and raw human experience, Morrison has carved out a legendary career that defies genre and expectation. From the smoky clubs of Belfast to the grand stages of the world, his music flows effortlessly between rock, jazz, blues, folk, and Celtic soul, creating a sound that is unmistakably his own. Whether he’s crooning about spiritual awakenings or capturing the magic of a moonlit night, Van the Man delivers every note with passion and authenticity. In this article, we’re counting down the top 10 most popular Van Morrison songs of all time—the tracks that made him a household name and cemented his place in music history. These aren’t just hits; they’re timeless pieces of art that have soundtracked road trips, romantic nights, and moments of deep reflection for generations of listeners. So whether you’re revisiting your favorites or discovering his genius for the first time, prepare to be swept away by the soulful melodies and lyrical depth of one of music’s true icons. Let the journey into Van Morrison’s greatest songs begin.
1. Domino (1970)
Released in 1970 on His Band and the Street Choir, “Domino” is Van Morrison at his most electrifying and radio-friendly. Fueled by a funky horn section, gospel-tinged backing vocals, and a rhythm that practically dances off the record, the song was a commercial success, reaching the Top 10 in the U.S.—a rare feat for Morrison. Lyrically, “Domino” is less abstract than some of his more poetic works, but it’s no less effective in capturing the raw joy and unpredictability of life. The song nods to Fats Domino in more than just name, channeling the exuberance of early rock and roll while keeping Morrison’s unique vocal stylings front and center. It’s a celebration of rhythm and soul, a track that demands you move, sing along, and lose yourself in its infectious groove. “Domino” proves that Morrison could craft hits without compromising his artistic voice.
2. Gloria (1964)
Before he was a solo icon, Van Morrison fronted the Belfast rock band Them, and in 1964, he penned what would become one of the most iconic garage rock songs ever: “Gloria.” Raw, rebellious, and endlessly riff-driven, the song is built on a simple three-chord progression and a ferocious energy that captures the unfiltered essence of youth. With its famous “G-L-O-R-I-A” chant, the track became a rite of passage for countless garage bands and was later immortalized by The Doors and Patti Smith in their own renditions. But Morrison’s original version remains the most potent—gritty, unapologetic, and bursting with sexual tension. “Gloria” is more than a song; it’s a blueprint for rock minimalism and attitude. It laid the groundwork for punk, alt-rock, and everything in between, proving that sometimes the simplest songs hit the hardest.
3. And It Stoned Me (1970)
Opening the Moondance album, “And It Stoned Me” is a vivid, nostalgic recollection of a boyhood fishing trip that transforms into something almost spiritual. Released in 1970, the track blends folk storytelling with soulful instrumentation, capturing the awe of nature and the passage of time. Morrison’s lyrics are rich with sensory detail—the cool water, the taste of fresh milk, the warmth of human kindness. Yet, the title hints at something deeper: a moment of revelation, of being moved beyond words. Musically, it’s breezy and melodic, with acoustic strums and soft horns supporting Morrison’s expressive vocals. “And It Stoned Me” is a perfect example of how Morrison turns the ordinary into the extraordinary, finding the divine in everyday experiences. It’s a song that resonates with anyone who’s ever been caught off guard by beauty, by memory, or by the simple magic of a perfect day.
4. Brown Eyed Girl (1967)
Released in 1967, “Brown Eyed Girl” is Van Morrison’s radiant breakthrough as a solo artist, bursting with youthful energy and timeless charm. Recorded during his brief stint with Bang Records, the song is a joyful, uptempo blend of pop, rock, and R&B that instantly stood out in the summer of love. Opening with that unmistakable guitar riff, Morrison paints a vivid picture of carefree romance and innocent memory, full of sun-drenched imagery and lyrical nostalgia. Despite its seemingly simple structure, the song’s catchy chorus and vivid verses create a multi-generational anthem that’s as fresh now as it was over 50 years ago. Though Morrison has had a complicated relationship with the song due to its commercial nature, “Brown Eyed Girl” remains a cultural staple, frequently played at weddings, barbecues, and on radio stations worldwide. Its legacy is undeniable—this is the song that made Van Morrison a household name.
5. Tupelo Honey (1971)
“Tupelo Honey,” the title track from his 1971 album, is a lush, country-soul ballad that celebrates the transcendent power of love. The phrase itself—“she’s as sweet as Tupelo honey”—has become cultural shorthand for something rare and beautiful. The song’s instrumentation is rich but relaxed, with organ swells, gentle guitar work, and Morrison’s impassioned vocal riding the groove. Inspired by his then-wife Janet “Planet” Rigsbee, “Tupelo Honey” feels both deeply personal and universally relatable. Morrison’s voice works like an instrument here, bending and stretching with emotion, bringing the listener into his private world. It’s a love song in the purest sense, grounded not in fantasy but in the everyday magic of devotion. With its soulful warmth and lyrical grace, “Tupelo Honey” stands as one of Morrison’s most beloved and enduring tracks.
6. Caravan (1970)
“Caravan,” also from Moondance, is a celebration of music itself—its ability to transport, connect, and elevate. From the opening notes, Morrison sets the scene with nomadic imagery and a narrative that feels both grounded and mythic. The song builds slowly, layering horns, piano, and rhythm guitar into a swelling groove that mirrors a traveling show gathering momentum. At its heart, “Caravan” is about the joy of listening to the radio, the magic of music in the night, and the community it creates. Morrison’s vocals are fiery and impassioned, particularly in the famed live version captured in The Last Waltz, where he delivers a performance for the ages. “Caravan” is an anthem for lovers of music, a song that celebrates the way rhythm and melody can turn even the most mundane moment into something transcendent.
7. Into the Mystic (1970)
Few songs capture the transcendental spirit of Van Morrison’s music like “Into the Mystic.” Released in 1970 as part of the Moondance album, this track is a hauntingly beautiful voyage into the unknown, driven by acoustic guitar, subtle horns, and Morrison’s soulful croon. Its lyrics are steeped in maritime imagery—fog horns, sailing ships, and longing—all serving as metaphors for spiritual awakening and emotional clarity. The song’s structure is deceptively simple, but its emotional depth is vast. Morrison invites the listener to journey inward, to surrender to the mystical forces of love and nature. “Into the Mystic” is often cited by fans and critics alike as one of his most profound recordings, and it has become a staple at weddings and funerals alike—moments when words fail, but music speaks volumes. It’s a song that feels timeless, eternal, as if it’s always been part of the human experience.
8. Moondance (1970)
“Moondance,” the title track from Morrison’s landmark 1970 album, is a masterclass in genre fusion, blending jazz, soul, and pop with effortless sophistication. With its swinging rhythm, walking bass line, and sultry saxophone interludes, it marked a bold step away from the experimental textures of Astral Weeks into something more polished yet just as poetic. Lyrically, it’s a romantic ode to the magic of autumn nights and dancing under the stars, delivered with Morrison’s signature vocal warmth and phrasing. What makes “Moondance” so special is its balance: it’s musically complex yet instantly accessible, jazzy but grounded in pop sensibility. Though it was never released as a single in 1970, it’s become one of Morrison’s most beloved tracks, covered by countless artists and revered for its timeless elegance. “Moondance” feels like a sonic celebration of life’s quiet, beautiful moments—and it swings like nothing else in his catalog.
9. Have I Told You Lately (1989)
Released in 1989 on Avalon Sunset, “Have I Told You Lately” showcases Van Morrison’s spiritual side through the guise of a love ballad. While often interpreted as a romantic song—and famously covered by Rod Stewart—it’s actually a prayer-like expression of gratitude and divine love. Morrison’s delivery is heartfelt and restrained, letting the song’s simple melody and sincere lyrics do the heavy lifting. The beauty of this song lies in its universality: whether you hear it as a song to a lover, a friend, or a higher power, it speaks deeply to the human need for connection and appreciation. Its warmth and clarity made it a late-career classic for Morrison, resonating with new generations and becoming a staple at weddings and special occasions. “Have I Told You Lately” is proof that Morrison’s songwriting remained powerful and relevant well into the late ’80s.
10. Crazy Love (1970)
“Crazy Love,” also from the Moondance album, is one of Van Morrison’s most tender and understated love songs. Clocking in at under three minutes, it’s a quiet ballad that delivers emotional resonance far beyond its length. The acoustic guitar, soft backing vocals, and Morrison’s gorgeously restrained delivery create an atmosphere of intimacy and vulnerability. There’s no bombast here—just pure affection wrapped in a gentle melody. It’s this simplicity that makes “Crazy Love” so enduring; it doesn’t try to impress, it just is. Morrison sings of a love that’s steady, comforting, and essential, the kind that grounds you when the world feels chaotic. Over the years, the song has been covered by artists like Ray Charles and Michael Bublé, yet Morrison’s original version remains unmatched in its quiet sincerity. It’s a gem that shines with unassuming brilliance.
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.
