Meaning of “Here Comes the Night” by Them
“Here Comes the Night” by Them, sung by Van Morrison, captures the pain and heartbreak of watching a former romantic partner with someone else. The lyrics narrate the anguish and jealousy felt by the protagonist as he witnesses his ex-lover walking down the street with another man. The repetitive chorus “Here comes the night” could signify the overwhelming feeling of dread and sadness that accompanies the darkness of night, especially when one is lonely and heartbroken.
The night becomes a symbol for his emotional pain and the long, lonely hours he has to endure, knowing she’s with someone else. There’s a theme of regret, nostalgia, and a longing for what once was, as he reminisces about the moments they shared and contrasts them with her current relationship. The song conveys the universal emotion of heartbreak and the difficulty of moving on after a relationship has ended.
Some interesting Facts
Here are some facts about “Here Comes the Night”:
- Songwriter: The song was written by Bert Berns, a notable songwriter and producer, who wrote numerous hits for various artists.
- Success: Released in 1965, “Here Comes the Night” was a major hit for Them, reaching number two in the UK charts.
- Production: The track was produced by Bert Berns himself, and he used session musicians, including Jimmy Page, later of Led Zeppelin, to play on the song.
- Cover Versions: The song has been covered by multiple artists over the years. One of the notable covers was by David Bowie for his “Pin Ups” album.
- Distinct Sound: One of the defining aspects of the track is its use of a haunting organ riff, which added a distinct texture to the song and made it stand out on the radio.
- Van Morrison: While Them’s frontman, Van Morrison, sang the song, he did not write it. However, it’s often associated with him, especially since he continued to perform it in his solo career.
- Music Video: The song was one of the few from its era to have a promotional film (akin to a modern music video). It was filmed in 1965 and featured the band performing the song.
- Mood and Tone: The song is often lauded for its moody and atmospheric production, which perfectly complements the theme of heartbreak and longing present in the lyrics.
These facts underline the significance and enduring appeal of “Here Comes the Night” in the annals of rock and roll history.
