About this song
“Leave a Light On” is a hit single by American singer Belinda Carlisle, released in 1989 as the lead single from her third solo album, Runaway Horses. The song showcases Carlisle’s signature pop-rock sound and was one of her most successful solo tracks after her departure from The Go-Go’s.
The lyrics of “Leave a Light On” center around themes of love, longing, and devotion. The narrator pleads with a lover to “leave a light on” for her, symbolizing a desire to maintain a connection and find her way back home, both literally and emotionally. The chorus, “Leave a light on for me, I’ll be there before you close the door,” emphasizes a sense of urgency and commitment, reflecting a deep emotional bond between the two.
Musically, “Leave a Light On” features a catchy melody and a strong pop-rock arrangement. The song is notable for its distinctive guitar riff, played by the legendary George Harrison of The Beatles, whose slide guitar adds a unique and memorable element to the track. Carlisle’s powerful and emotive vocals drive the song, capturing both the longing and determination expressed in the lyrics.
“Leave a Light On” was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 in several countries, including the UK, where it peaked at number four. In the United States, the song reached number 11 on the Billboard Hot 100, solidifying Carlisle’s status as a successful solo artist in the late 1980s and early 1990s.
The enduring appeal of “Leave a Light On” lies in its combination of heartfelt lyrics, a strong melody, and Carlisle’s dynamic performance. The song remains a fan favorite and is often included in her live performances. Its blend of emotional depth and pop sensibility makes “Leave a Light On” a standout track in Belinda Carlisle’s solo career, and it continues to resonate with listeners as a classic of its era.