Belinda Carlisle has captivated audiences for decades with her powerful vocals and infectious pop anthems. From her early days with The Go-Go’s to her successful solo career, she’s consistently delivered hits that have become the soundtrack to generations. Here’s a look at some of her most iconic songs that solidify her place in pop music history.
‘In Too Deep’
Originally recorded by Jenny Morris, Belinda Carlisle’s rendition of “In Too Deep” became a standout track from her album A Woman and a Man in 1996. While Morris’s version had a modest impact in Australia, Carlisle’s cover resonated strongly with UK audiences, securing a coveted spot in the top 10 charts and demonstrating her knack for interpreting songs and making them her own.
‘Leave a Light On’
“Leave a Light On” served as the lead single for Carlisle’s third studio album, Runaway Horses, released in 1989. This power ballad soared to number four in the UK charts, becoming an instant classic. Adding to its allure, the song features guitar work by none other than Beatles legend George Harrison. Carlisle recounted her bold suggestion to enlist Harrison, which materialized through a mutual connection, highlighting the serendipitous nature of music collaborations and the respect she commanded within the industry.
‘(We Want) The Same Thing’
Also featured on the Runaway Horses album, “(We Want) The Same Thing” continued Carlisle’s chart success in the UK, reaching number 6 in 1990. This upbeat track showcased her ability to blend catchy melodies with relatable themes, further cementing her popularity as a solo artist during the late 80s and early 90s.
‘Circle in the Sand’
“Circle in the Sand” is another gem from Carlisle’s highly successful Heaven on Earth album. This song is known for its memorable melody, which bears a resemblance to Mike + The Mechanics’ “Silent Running (On Dangerous Ground),” particularly the distinctive “can you hear me calling” phrase. This subtle borrowing highlights the interconnectedness of pop music and how artists can draw inspiration from various sources.
‘Summer Rain’
“Summer Rain,” also from the Runaway Horses album, is a more poignant and narrative-driven song. It tells the story of a woman remembering her husband who has gone to war, emphasizing themes of love, loss, and enduring connection. Belinda Carlisle has expressed that “Summer Rain” holds a special place for her, considering it her personal favorite among her extensive catalog, revealing a deeper emotional connection to this particular track.
‘We Got the Beat’ (with The Go-Go’s)
“We Got the Beat” became the signature anthem for The Go-Go’s, the groundbreaking all-female band fronted by Belinda Carlisle. Reaching number two in the US charts in 1982, this energetic track, clocking in at just 2 1/2 minutes, evolved from the band’s cover of The Miracles’ “Going to a Go Go.” It perfectly captured the vibrant energy of the early 80s music scene and propelled The Go-Go’s to international fame.
‘Mad About You’
“Mad About You” marked Belinda Carlisle’s official debut as a solo artist in 1986 after her departure from The Go-Go’s. Interestingly, Paula Jean Brown, who briefly joined The Go-Go’s, co-wrote the song, and former bandmates Jane Wiedlin and Charlotte Caffey contributed backing vocals. This song’s history reveals its potential origin as part of a planned but ultimately cancelled fourth Go-Go’s album, showcasing the intertwined paths of Carlisle and her former band.
‘I Get Weak’
“I Get Weak” was originally penned by renowned songwriter Diane Warren with Stevie Nicks in mind, but it eventually found its way to Belinda Carlisle. This power ballad became a major hit for Carlisle, reaching number two in the US, famously held off the top spot by Rick Astley’s “Never Gonna Give You Up,” and also reaching number 10 in the UK. This song highlights Carlisle’s ability to deliver powerful vocals on emotionally resonant tracks.
‘Our Lips Are Sealed’ (with The Go-Go’s)
Before her successful solo career, Belinda Carlisle was the charismatic lead singer of the iconic girl group, The Go-Go’s. “Our Lips Are Sealed” was co-written by The Specials’ Terry Hall and Go-Go’s guitarist Jane Wiedlin. While The Go-Go’s version wasn’t a UK hit initially, it achieved significant success in the US. Fun Boy Three, Terry Hall’s subsequent band, released their own rendition in 1983, which became a top 10 hit in the UK, demonstrating the song’s enduring appeal across different interpretations and regions.
‘Heaven is a Place on Earth’
Arguably Belinda Carlisle’s signature song, “Heaven is a Place on Earth” achieved phenomenal success, reaching number one in both the US and UK charts in 1987/88. As the lead single from her second solo album, this anthemic track featured backing vocals from Michelle Phillips of The Mamas & the Papas and songwriter Diane Warren, along with Thomas Dolby on keyboards. Its widespread popularity and enduring appeal solidify it as one of the most recognizable and beloved pop songs of the 1980s and in Belinda Carlisle’s impressive discography.
