Discovering Van Morrison: A Guide to His Top 5 Songs

Van Morrison, a man with as many facets as his homeland of Northern Ireland, is a musical chameleon. Emerging from the R&B-influenced group Them with the hit 'Gloria,' Morrison's journey was just beginning. His transition to a solo artist gave us the timeless 'Brown Eyed Girl,' showcasing just a fraction of his songwriting prowess.

Infused with the Celtic spirit of spiritual exploration, Van Morrison's music traverses through the realms of soul, R&B, and folk. His early influences include the likes of Ray Charles and Solomon Burke, but it was perhaps the skiffle sound of Lonnie Donegan's 'Rock Island Line' that bridged his love for folk and blues. Known for his dreamy yet profound tracks, he captures fans with his poetic versatility and improvisational soul.

For those new to Van Morrison's expansive discography, starting with his top five tracks is the perfect introduction to his eclectic style. 'Brown Eyed Girl' and 'Crazy Love' bring the ease of Caribbean vibes and folky R&B, while 'Moondance' and 'Into the Mystic' enchant listeners with smooth, jazzy rhythms. The iconic 'Gloria' by Them remains a testament to Morrison's raw rock'n'roll roots. Each song represents a different shade of Van Morrison's musical genius.

5. 'Brown Eyed Girl' from Blowin' Your Mind! (1967)

Starting with the upbeat 'Brown Eyed Girl,' Van Morrison made an indelible mark on the music world. Though it began his solo career on an iconic note, Morrison himself remains critical of the song, believing he has written many superior tracks. Nevertheless, 'Brown Eyed Girl' continues to be a beloved classic, with hints of romantic poetry that signified the brilliance that was to come.

4. 'Crazy Love' from Moondance (1970)

With 'Crazy Love,' Morrison presents a more structured form of R&B and folk, a departure from the abstract approach of his earlier album, 'Astral Weeks.' 'Crazy Love' reflects a time of personal change, with the beauty of the Catskill Mountains inspiring this heartfelt track.

3. 'Moondance' from Moondance (1970)

The title song 'Moondance' marked Van Morrison's rise into mainstream music, becoming a staple in his live performances. With this jazzy number, Morrison demonstrated his ability to respond to pressures for commercial success without sacrificing his artistic integrity.

2. 'Into the Mystic' from Moondance (1970)

'Into the Mystic' compares to Paul McCartney's 'Yesterday' with its evocative charm that captures the fusion of music and lyrics into a seamless piece of art. The song embodies the soul of 'Moondance,' with critics and fans alike recognizing it as one of Morrison's most profound works.

1. 'Gloria' by Them from The “Angry” Young Them! (1965)

The earth-shattering 'Gloria' is as impactful as any rock'n'roll classic. Originating with Morrison's raw energy at just 18, the song's simplicity and vitality make it a foundational rock anthem, influencing generations of musicians in its wake.

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