About the song
Belinda Carlisle’s “Leave a Light On” is a radiant pop anthem that showcases the singer’s signature blend of catchy melodies and heartfelt lyrics. Released in 1989, this song was the lead single from her third solo album, Runaway Horses, and it quickly became one of her most memorable hits, capturing the essence of late ’80s pop music with its infectious energy and polished production.
Written by Rick Nowels and Ellen Shipley, who had previously collaborated with Carlisle on several of her hits, “Leave a Light On” is a song about love, longing, and the hope for reconciliation. The lyrics convey a message of enduring love, with the narrator asking their partner to keep a light on, symbolizing the desire to return home and rekindle their relationship. This theme of hope and connection resonated with many listeners, making the song a staple of Carlisle’s live performances.
The track features an iconic slide guitar solo by George Harrison of The Beatles, adding a touch of rock authenticity and a timeless quality to the song. Harrison’s contribution, coupled with Carlisle’s powerful vocals, created a unique blend of pop and rock that set the song apart from many of its contemporaries.
“Leave a Light On” achieved significant chart success, reaching number 11 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States and making it into the Top 5 in several European countries, including the UK where it peaked at number 4. The song’s success helped propel Runaway Horses to platinum status in multiple countries, further establishing Carlisle as a solo artist of considerable acclaim.
The accompanying music video, which featured stunning desert landscapes and Carlisle’s vibrant performance, received heavy rotation on MTV, adding to the song’s popularity.
Today, “Leave a Light On” remains one of Belinda Carlisle’s most beloved songs, a reminder of the optimistic and polished pop sound that defined much of the late 1980s. Its blend of emotional lyrics, memorable melody, and stellar guitar work ensures that it continues to resonate with fans old and new.