Blog Post: Discovering the Classic – Van Morrison’s "Brown Eyed Girl" (Live)
In the world of rock music, few artists resonate as deeply and universally as Van Morrison. Born in Belfast, Northern Ireland, on August 31, 1945, Morrison’s musical journey began in the late 1950s, evolving through blues, jazz, and folk influences. He first gained prominence in the mid-1960s as the lead singer of Them, with hits like "Gloria" propelling him into the spotlight. However, it was his solo work that would solidify his legacy. With an eclectic discography that includes classic albums such as "Astral Weeks" and "Moondance," Morrison’s sound is characterized by its rich lyrical content and distinctive fusion of genres.
The beauty of Morrison’s artistry is further captured in his live performances, exemplified by the iconic track "Brown Eyed Girl." Originally released in 1967 on his debut album, "Blowin’ Your Mind," this song became an instant classic that not only topped the charts but also connected deeply with fans across generations. Rising to number 10 on the Billboard Hot 100, "Brown Eyed Girl" has since become an anthem of nostalgia, its catchy melody and playful lyrics evoking fond memories of youth and romance.
The live performance of "Brown Eyed Girl" featured in the film "It’s Too Late to Stop Now," showcases Morrison’s remarkable vocal talent and charismatic stage presence. This film, released in 1974, documents a series of concerts he performed in 1973 and is celebrated for its intimate portrayal of one of the era’s most dynamic performers. The electrifying atmosphere of the live shows, coupled with Morrison’s passionate delivery, captures the hearts of both longtime fans and new listeners alike.
Throughout his career, Van Morrison has received numerous accolades, including induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. Despite facing challenges, including shifts in the music industry and personal trials, he has remained a celebrated figure in rock music, continuously evolving while staying true to his roots. His influence spans decades, impacting countless artists and shaping the sound of modern music.
Join us as we take a closer look at the live rendition of "Brown Eyed Girl," a song that epitomizes the spirit of the ’60s and ’70s rock scene. This timeless performance promises to evoke a sense of nostalgia and celebration that transcends generations, reminding us all of the joy found in music and the memories we cherish.
This article was written with the assistance of GretAi
Video “Van Morrison – Brown Eyed Girl (Live) (from..It’s Too Late to Stop Now…Film)” was uploaded on 06/09/2016 to Youtube Channel VanMorrisonVEVO
The finest soldiers on Earth I never had to ask. Camp Bastard…Delta looked at me…I said he sees no danger.
I believe he left when he was going to kill someone. Ask him.
Is he high. Love anyway ❤️
I remember when I used to listen to it when I was a twenty years brown eyed girl,and I liked at that time and even more now
Does anyone know if there is video of him singing it in the "recorded form" ie. like the record? I would love to see but never have and have looked for a long time. Thanks in advance.
You can tell this isn’t one of his favorite songs
What year Is It?
Holy cow! He's higher than a kite!
It's 2023, and I will never get sick of hearing Van Morrison
I use to play this song to a brown eyed girl I was dating and still talk to….
I remember, it was the early 80's I think, maybe late 70's, Morrison was actually reduced to playing in venues like the old corner theater in downtown one horse town Petaluma, CA that maybe held 2 to 3 hundred people, maybe a few more, It didnt even sell out if I remember correctly, but it was so long ago in my life. Everyone thought his career was over, they had the nerve to be disappointed when he didnt do an encore. I dont blame him, no one held him in appreciation that I knew at the time, joking about his fall from fame. How humiliating for such a talented artist to have to play for these drones. So glad his career has a part 2 and people appreciate his immense talent now. He is up there with Paul Simon.
Songs like these give me vivid memories that srnt mine of hippies enjoying life around a fire drinking beer smoking weed and not a phone in sight
Summer song nice
What year was this live version recorded?
They sound awful, are they on drugs here.
♫ La chanson du jour de ce mardi par Van Morrison. Joyeux anniversaire à Mayelle May, Valérie Liatard, Avelin Castello de Wendy Pot, Luc Salvo, Vif Pardine et à ceux qui sont nés un 24 octobre ♫
Screwed up a good song
I have an old joke that my mom was the radio and my dad was a record player. It turned into a weird habit of referencing the greats as “Uncle Van” or maybe “Aunt Nina.” I now have a six year old son, and after repeatedly explaining and apologizing to this boy we aren’t actually related he still asks me all the time hear his Uncle Van
Please come play in Massachusetts, Please! Please…, Please!!
Love it so much❤🎉❤🎉❤🎉❤🎉
One of my all-time favorite tunes https://youtu.be/CNpKfguv0q8?si=pDbmgedDTIdyeSSa – Thanks, Van Morrison! 🤙
One one’s for my late husband one off his favorites off all time
One of my fav artists but i sure am glad i never seen him live. sheesh.
I know I'm 50 years too late but holy shit, slow it down, band.
I can't stand when artists completely change their songs during live concerts. This is another example of that. The version he's singing here is way worse than the original!
Still listening in 2024! A gem
amazing live performance of this song, much more upbeat than the studio version
fuck version
If I hear one more song with a middle 8 bass break…
David Shaw brings new life to this great song.. Very inspiring!!
Comparing them days with now
🤯
His voice is very different live
This is nothing like the original,,,this is not what I wana hear
🎶💜
This was my late wife’s favorite song. She passed while enjoying a large bowl of fruit loops cereal.
He does not play this song live anymore. I am the fortunate one when he closed the show in Milano, 2001.
He isnt very good live.