Van Morrison stands as a towering figure in popular music, his voice instantly recognizable and his songwriting deeply influential. Over a remarkable career spanning six decades, this Northern Irish icon has journeyed through a vast landscape of musical styles, from the raw energy of garage rock to the sophisticated textures of jazz and soul. His songs resonate with themes of love, spirituality, and the search for meaning, captivating audiences across generations.
From his early days fronting the band Them to his celebrated solo work, Van Morrison has consistently defied categorization, blending genres and pushing creative boundaries. Though often perceived as a reclusive and uncompromising artist, his impact is undeniable. He is a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, a multiple Grammy and BRIT Award winner, and his album Astral Weeks is widely hailed as a masterpiece. His music continues to inspire and move listeners worldwide.
This article delves into ten of Van Morrison’s most exceptional songs, ranked in ascending order, celebrating the breadth and depth of his extraordinary musical legacy.
10. Jackie Wilson Said (I’m in Heaven When You Smile)
Jackie Wilson performing, alt text: Jackie Wilson, a major influence on Van Morrison, singing on stage in a vibrant suit.
Released on his 1972 album Saint Dominic’s Preview, “Jackie Wilson Said (I’m in Heaven When You Smile)” is Van Morrison’s vibrant homage to the legendary soul singer Jackie Wilson. This song is a joyous burst of R&B energy, reflecting Morrison’s deep admiration for Wilson’s electrifying performances and vocal style.
The track’s spontaneous creation in the studio adds to its charm. As Morrison’s drummer Ricky Schlosser recounted, the version on the album is essentially the first take, capturing a raw and improvisational feel. The song’s loose, almost chaotic energy, culminating in Morrison’s ad-libbed “One more time,” perfectly embodies the spirit of Jackie Wilson’s dynamic stage presence.
The song’s infectious rhythm and celebratory lyrics made it a hit, and it gained further recognition when Dexys Midnight Runners covered it in 1982, taking it to the top of the charts and introducing it to a new generation of listeners. “Jackie Wilson Said (I’m in Heaven When You Smile)” stands as a testament to Van Morrison’s ability to seamlessly blend tribute with his own unique musical voice.
9. In The Garden
Van Morrison performing live with guitar, alt text: Van Morrison in concert, playing acoustic guitar and singing with eyes closed in a reflective pose.
“In The Garden,” from Van Morrison’s 1986 album No Guru, No Method, No Teacher, represents a more introspective and spiritual side of his artistry. This song is a meditative exploration of faith, nature, and personal connection, showcasing Morrison’s evolving lyrical and musical sophistication.
Described by Morrison himself as a “meditative process,” “In The Garden” unfolds at a gentle pace, built upon delicate piano and acoustic guitar melodies. The lyrics reflect a rejection of dogma and a return to fundamental aspects of life that Morrison finds deeply meaningful: spirituality found in nature, a sense of timelessness, and a connection to the past.
The song’s serene and contemplative mood has made it a staple of Van Morrison’s live performances. “In The Garden” resonates with listeners seeking solace and meaning, demonstrating Morrison’s capacity to create music that is both deeply personal and universally relatable. It’s a prime example of his later, more reflective work, appealing to those who appreciate the spiritual and introspective dimensions of Van Morrison Songs.
8. Crazy Love
Romantic candlelit dinner setting, alt text: A warmly lit candlelit dinner table, suggesting a romantic atmosphere often associated with 'Crazy Love'.
“Crazy Love,” from 1970, is perhaps Van Morrison’s most overtly romantic song, a timeless ballad that has become a soundtrack for countless expressions of love. Its tender melody and heartfelt lyrics celebrate the transformative power of love in its purest form.
Written for his then-wife Janet Planet shortly after their marriage, “Crazy Love” beautifully articulates how love can elevate both ordinary and extraordinary moments. The song’s poetic verses express the sentiment that love can turn hardship into joy and amplify existing happiness.
Despite the irony of Morrison’s later divorce from Janet Planet, “Crazy Love” remains a popular choice for weddings and romantic occasions. Its universal message of love has resonated with numerous artists who have covered it, including Rod Stewart, Bryan Ferry, Michael Bublé, and Robbie Robertson, further solidifying its place as a classic love song within the van morrison songs catalog.
7. Baby Please Don’t Go (with Them)
Them band performing in the 1960s, alt text: The band Them, featuring a young Van Morrison, performing energetically on stage in a black and white photograph from the 1960s.
Before his successful solo career, Van Morrison made his mark as the frontman for the garage rock band Them. “Baby Please Don’t Go,” released in 1965, is a raw and electrifying track that exemplifies the band’s energetic sound and Morrison’s powerful early vocals.
Originally a 1935 blues song by Big Joe Williams, Them transformed “Baby Please Don’t Go” into a high-octane rock anthem. The song’s iconic, frenetic intro riff, combined with Morrison’s impassioned delivery, created a sound that was both rooted in blues tradition and fiercely modern.
Notably, the recording of “Baby Please Don’t Go” reportedly featured a young Jimmy Page on rhythm guitar before his Led Zeppelin fame. This song became a staple of rock music, influencing countless bands and solidifying Them’s place in music history, showcasing a different facet of van morrison songs – his early rock and roll roots.
6. Domino
Fats Domino smiling at the piano, alt text: Fats Domino, Van Morrison's musical hero, beaming while playing the piano in a lively performance setting.
“Domino,” a hit from 1970, is Van Morrison’s vibrant and uninhibited tribute to another musical hero, the rock and roll pioneer Fats Domino. This song is a joyful explosion of R&B and soul, showcasing Morrison’s playful side and his deep appreciation for American music.
“Domino” stands out for its carefree energy and directness. Morrison intentionally avoided complex lyrical interpretations with this song, focusing instead on creating a pure, feel-good musical experience. The song’s upbeat tempo, catchy melody, and Morrison’s exuberant vocal performance make it instantly infectious.
Written in 1968 but held back for two years due to publishing considerations, “Domino” proved to be a shrewd move. It became Van Morrison’s highest-charting single in the United States, demonstrating the broad appeal of his more overtly R&B-influenced van morrison songs.
5. Sweet Thing
Couple walking in a sunlit field, alt text: A couple walking hand-in-hand through a sunny field, evoking the sweet and romantic sentiment of the song 'Sweet Thing'.
“Sweet Thing,” from the seminal 1968 album Astral Weeks, is a song that embodies ethereal beauty and tender romance. While Astral Weeks wasn’t known for producing hit singles upon its release, “Sweet Thing” has become one of Van Morrison’s most enduring and beloved compositions over time.
The phrase “sweet thing” itself has entered popular language as a term of endearment, a testament to the song’s cultural impact. Despite its romantic connotations, Morrison has stated that “Sweet Thing” wasn’t written about a specific person but rather about a feeling, capturing a universal sense of romantic longing and affection.
The song’s gentle instrumentation, Morrison’s soulful vocal delivery, and its lyrical imagery create an atmosphere of dreamlike beauty. “Sweet Thing” exemplifies the poetic and emotionally resonant quality that defines many of the best van morrison songs.
4. Have I Told You Lately
Van Morrison performing with a band in concert, alt text: Van Morrison singing 'Have I Told You Lately' on stage with his band, bathed in warm stage lighting during a performance.
“Have I Told You Lately,” released in 1989, is a song that has achieved widespread acclaim and affection, becoming one of Van Morrison’s most critically and commercially successful tracks. Its heartfelt lyrics and gentle melody have resonated with audiences across genres and generations.
Initially conceived as a song about faith, “Have I Told You Lately” has transcended its original inspiration to become a beloved ballad, frequently played at weddings and romantic occasions. Its message of enduring love and appreciation is both simple and profoundly moving.
The song gained even greater popularity when Rod Stewart covered it for his MTV Unplugged special in 1993, taking it to the top of the charts internationally. The Chieftains’ version also earned Van Morrison a Grammy Award, further cementing the song’s status as a modern classic within the van morrison songs repertoire.
3. Into The Mystic
Sailboat at sea in misty conditions, alt text: A sailboat navigating through a misty sea, representing the nautical imagery and mystical atmosphere of 'Into The Mystic'.
“Into The Mystic” is a song of hope and spiritual yearning, showcasing Van Morrison’s ability to blend earthly imagery with transcendent themes. This track, with its evocative lyrics and soulful performance, is considered one of his most beautiful and inspiring works.
Written from the perspective of a sailor nearing land, “Into The Mystic” uses the metaphor of a foghorn – usually a warning signal – to symbolize hope and reunion. Morrison’s vocals reach a spiritual intensity, painting vivid pictures of the sea, land, and the promise of love.
Interestingly, “Into The Mystic” has been cited as a popular song choice for surgeons to listen to during operations, attributed to its soothing and calming qualities. This unexpected application highlights the song’s ability to evoke peace and tranquility, further demonstrating its unique power within van morrison songs.
2. Moondance
Van Morrison playing saxophone on stage, alt text: Van Morrison playing the saxophone with passion during a live performance, highlighting the jazzy influence in 'Moondance'.
“Moondance,” from the 1970 album of the same name, showcases Van Morrison’s deep appreciation for jazz and his musical versatility. This song is a sophisticated and swinging track, born from an initial saxophone instrumental idea.
“Moondance” originated as a saxophone piece, with Morrison himself playing the instrument. The song’s jazzy rhythm, elegant melody, and Morrison’s smooth vocal delivery create a timeless and sophisticated atmosphere. The recording process, as recalled by pianist Jeff Labes, involved Morrison seeking a “first-take vocal magic,” inspired by Frank Sinatra’s recording style.
The result is a song that is both musically intricate and instantly appealing. “Moondance” remains one of Van Morrison’s most recognizable and beloved hits, demonstrating his mastery of blending genres and creating consistently captivating van morrison songs.
1. Brown Eyed Girl
Young woman with brown eyes smiling, alt text: A smiling young woman with striking brown eyes, visually representing the subject of Van Morrison's signature song 'Brown Eyed Girl'.
“Brown Eyed Girl” is undeniably Van Morrison’s signature song, the track that has become synonymous with his name and his enduring musical legacy. While Morrison himself has expressed a somewhat ambivalent relationship with its overwhelming popularity, it remains his most recognized and celebrated work.
Released in 1967 on his debut solo album Blowin’ Your Mind!, “Brown Eyed Girl” captured the spirit of youthful nostalgia and carefree joy. Despite Morrison’s initial dismissal of it as a “throwaway song,” its infectious melody, sing-along chorus, and evocative lyrics about young love have resonated with generations of listeners.
Though associated with the “summer of love,” a cultural phenomenon Morrison reportedly disliked, “Brown Eyed Girl” transcends any specific era. Its timeless appeal and feel-good vibe have made it a perennial favorite, played at parties, on the radio, and enjoyed by new fans discovering van morrison songs for the first time, solidifying its place as his greatest hit.
