About the song
Belinda Carlisle’s “Leave a Light On” is a timeless pop ballad that showcases her powerful vocals and emotional range. Released in 1989 as the lead single from her third studio album, “Runaway Horses,” the song quickly became a global hit, reaching the top five in several countries and narrowly missing the top 10 in the United States.
Written by Rick Nowels and Ellen Shipley, “Leave a Light On” is a heartfelt plea for love and connection. The song’s lyrics express a deep longing for a lost love and the hope of reconciliation. Carlisle’s vocals are both vulnerable and powerful, capturing the song’s emotional intensity.
The song’s production is equally impressive. The lush synth arrangements and driving beat create a captivating atmosphere, while the addition of slide guitar by legendary Beatles guitarist George Harrison adds a touch of rock and roll flair. Harrison’s contribution to the song was a dream come true for Carlisle, who had long admired his work.
“Leave a Light On” has endured as a pop classic, thanks to its timeless melody, relatable lyrics, and powerful performance. The song’s message of love and hope continues to resonate with audiences of all ages, making it a beloved addition to Carlisle’s discography.
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