About the song

“The Night Has a Thousand Eyes” is a classic song written by Benjamin Weisman, Dorothy Wayne, and Marilyn Garrett. Originally recorded by Bobby Vee in October 1962, it quickly became a hit and remains a beloved piece of pop music.

Bobby Vee’s version was recorded at United Recorders in Hollywood, California, with arrangements by Ernie Freeman and production by Snuff Garrett. Released as a single later in 1962, the song captured widespread attention. It spent 14 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, peaking at number 3. Additionally, it reached number 2 on Billboard’s Middle-Road Singles chart and number 8 on the Hot R&B Singles chart. The song also enjoyed success across the Atlantic, hitting number 3 on the UK’s Record Retailer chart in March 1963.

The song was featured on Vee’s 1963 album, also titled “The Night Has a Thousand Eyes.” In addition to the single, Vee produced a Scopitone promotional video for the song, adding to its appeal.

Over the years, the song has been covered by various artists. In 1965, Gary Lewis & the Playboys included their rendition on their debut album, “This Diamond Ring.” The Carpenters also featured the song on their 1973 album, “Now & Then.” Canadian pop singer-songwriter Dan Bryk offered his version in 1997, and it appeared as a bonus track on his 2000 album “Lovers Leap.”

The song’s evocative title and melody even made their way into popular culture. In Alex Proyas’ 1998 science fiction film “Dark City,” a jazzy, minor-key version of the song is performed by Jennifer Connelly, enhancing the film’s themes of surveillance and mystery.

“The Night Has a Thousand Eyes” continues to be remembered fondly, with its rich history and enduring charm keeping it alive in the hearts of many music enthusiasts.

Video

Lyrics

They say that you’re a runaround lover
Though you say it isn’t so
But if you put me down for another
I’ll know, believe me, I’ll know
Cause the night has a thousand eyes
And a thousand eyes can’t help but see if you are true to me
So remember when you tell those little white lies
That the night has a thousand eyes
You say that you’re at home when you phone me
And how much you really care
Though you keep telling me that you’re lonely
I’ll know if someone is there
Cause the night has a thousand eyes
And a thousand eyes can’t help but see if you are true to me
So remember when you tell those little white lies
That the night has a thousand eyes
One of these days you’re gonna be sorry
Cause your game I’m gonna play
And you’ll find out without really tryin’
Each time that my kisses stray
Cause the night has a thousand eyes
And a thousand eyes will see me too
And no matter what I do
I could never disguise all my little white lies
Cause the night has a thousand eyes
So remember when you tell those little white lies
That the night has a thousand eyes