About the song
Belinda Carlisle’s “Leave a Light On” is more than just a catchy pop song from the late 80s. It’s a heartfelt plea disguised in a vibrant melody, a testament to the power of connection and the comfort found in shared experiences. Released in 1989 as the lead single from her album “Runaway Horses,” the song became a global hit, solidifying Carlisle’s position as a pop powerhouse.
Written by Rick Nowels and Ellen Shipley, “Leave a Light On” paints a picture of longing and anticipation. The lyrics express a desire for companionship, a plea to keep a metaphorical light burning as a beacon of hope for someone’s return. Lines like “Leave a light on, shining in the night / Leave a light on, ’cause I’ll be home soon” capture the simple yet powerful yearning for connection, a sentiment that resonates with anyone who has ever felt alone or missed a loved one.
The song’s unique appeal is further enhanced by the unexpected collaboration with George Harrison. His signature slide guitar adds a touch of rock n’ roll grit to the otherwise pop-oriented track, creating a beautiful musical tapestry. Carlisle’s powerful vocals soar above the melody, conveying the emotional urgency of the lyrics.
“Leave a Light On” wasn’t just a critical darling; it was a commercial success. The song reached the top five in several countries, including the UK and Canada, and narrowly missed the top ten in the US. The accompanying music video, directed by Peter Care, showcased Carlisle in a variety of settings, visually reinforcing the song’s themes of longing and anticipation.
Despite its upbeat tempo, “Leave a Light On” carries a deeper message. It’s a reminder that human connection is a fundamental need, and the simple act of leaving a light on can offer comfort and hope in the face of separation. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its ability to capture a universal human experience, making it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with listeners today.
Video
Lyrics
Take my hand
Tell me what you’re feeling
Understand
This is just the beginning
Although I have to go
It makes me feel like crying
I don’t know when I’ll see you again
Darling, leave a light on for me
I’ll be there before you close the door
To give you all the love that you need
Darling, leave a light on for me
‘Cause when the world takes me away
You are still the air that I breathe
I can’t explain, I don’t know
Just how far I have to go
But darling I’ll keep the key
Just leave the light on for me
Yes, I know
What I’m asking is crazy
You could go
Just get tired of waiting
But if I lose your love (lose your love)
Torn out by my desire
That would be the one regret of my life
Darling leave a light on for me
I’ll be there before you close the door
To give you all the love that you need
Darling leave a light on for me
‘Cause when the world takes me away
You are still the air that I breathe
I can’t explain, I don’t know
Just how far I have to go
But darling I’ll keep the key
Just leave a light on for me
Just like a spark lights up the dark
Baby that’s your heart
Baby that’s your heart
Baby that’s your heart
Darling leave a light on for me
I’ll be there before you close the door
To give you all the love that you need
Darling leave a light on for me (darling leave a light on)
‘Cause when the world takes me away
You are still the air that I breathe
Darling leave a light on for me (darling leave a light on)
I’ll be there before you close the door
I’ll be all the love that you need
Darling leave a light on for me (darling leave a light on)
‘Cause when the world takes me away
You are still the air that I breathe
Darling leave a light on for me (darling leave a light on)
I’ll be there before you close the door
To give you all the love that you need