About the song
Remember those golden days of radio, when a simple tune could transport you to another world? Bobby Vee’s “The Night Has A Thousand Eyes” is one of those songs that has stood the test of time. Released in 1962, this ballad quickly became a staple on the airwaves and a testament to Vee’s enduring popularity.
The song’s title alone conjures up a sense of mystery and intrigue. It’s a phrase that has been used in countless stories and poems to describe the feeling of being watched or observed. In Vee’s interpretation, this sense of being watched is paired with a melancholic longing. The lyrics, penned by Benjamin Weisman, Dorothy Wayne, and Marilyn Garrett, paint a vivid picture of a person consumed by thoughts of a lost love. The line, “And every night, the night has a thousand eyes,” has become iconic, reflecting the universal experience of feeling alone even when surrounded by others.
Bobby Vee himself was a teen idol of the early 1960s, known for his clean-cut image and wholesome appeal. His version of “The Night Has A Thousand Eyes” showcased a more mature side to his artistry. The song’s arrangement, with its lush strings and gentle percussion, perfectly complemented Vee’s smooth vocals. It was a departure from the upbeat, rock-and-roll sound that was prevalent at the time, and it demonstrated Vee’s versatility as an artist.
The success of “The Night Has A Thousand Eyes” can be attributed to several factors. First and foremost, the song is simply beautiful. Its melody is both memorable and haunting, and the lyrics are relatable to anyone who has ever experienced heartbreak. Additionally, the song was released at a time when ballads were enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Artists like Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley had already proven that there was a large audience for this type of music.
Over the years, “The Night Has A Thousand Eyes” has been covered by numerous artists, each bringing their own unique interpretation to the song. However, it is Bobby Vee’s version that is considered the definitive recording. The song’s enduring appeal is a testament to its timeless quality. It is a reminder that great music can transcend generations and continue to resonate with new audiences.
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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