About the song
“Circle in the Sand” by Belinda Carlisle is a captivating pop-rock track that evokes the carefree spirit of summer romance and the passage of time. Released in 1988 as the third single from her hit album Heaven on Earth, the song was written by the successful songwriting duo Rick Nowels and Ellen Shipley, who also worked on many of Carlisle’s other hits. The song’s dreamy, atmospheric sound is built around a steady, pulsing beat and lush production, with Carlisle’s distinctive voice delivering the reflective lyrics with a mix of passion and melancholy.
The lyrics of “Circle in the Sand” capture the imagery of a romantic beachside setting, where love seems eternal but is also subject to the inevitable changes that time brings. The metaphor of drawing a circle in the sand reflects both the fleeting nature of life’s moments and the desire to hold onto something meaningful. This theme of longing, combined with the song’s evocative melody, struck a chord with listeners, making it one of Carlisle’s most memorable hits.
Upon its release, “Circle in the Sand” enjoyed significant chart success. It reached number 7 on the UK Singles Chart and number 9 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States, further cementing Belinda Carlisle’s status as a prominent solo artist following her time with The Go-Go’s. The song also performed well internationally, charting in several other countries, including Canada, where it reached the top 10.
“Circle in the Sand” remains a fan favorite and is often highlighted as one of the standout tracks from the Heaven on Earth album. Its blend of polished production, heartfelt lyrics, and Carlisle’s emotive performance make it a timeless piece that continues to resonate with audiences, capturing the essence of love, loss, and nostalgia.