Morrissey, born Steven Patrick Morrissey on May 22, 1959, is an English singer, songwriter, and author best known as the lead vocalist of The Smiths, one of the most influential British bands of the 1980s.
Formed in Manchester in 1982 with guitarist Johnny Marr, The Smiths gained acclaim for their distinctive blend of jangly guitar melodies and introspective lyrics.
Morrissey became renowned for his poetic songwriting, often exploring themes of loneliness, identity, romance, and social alienation with sharp wit and emotional depth.
Following the band’s breakup in 1987, he built a successful solo career and remained a prominent figure in alternative music.
His artistic legacy continues to influence generations of musicians worldwide.
About the Song
This Night Has Opened My Eyes is one of The Smiths’ most celebrated songs.
The song features Morrissey’s vivid storytelling and Johnny Marr’s intricate guitar melodies, exploring themes of poverty, abandonment, and life-changing decisions.
Praised for its emotional depth and literary lyrics, the track has become a fan favorite and is widely regarded as one of The Smiths’ finest recordings.
Today, it remains a standout example of the band’s unique approach to alternative rock.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Album | Hatful of Hollow |
| Release Date | November 12, 1984 |
| Writer | Morrissey & Johnny Marr |
| Producer | Roger Pusey |
Complete Lyrics of This Night Has Opened My Eyes
Verse 1
In a river the color of lead
Immerse the baby’s head
Wrap her up in The News Of The World
Dump her on a doorstep, girl
This night has opened my eyes
And I will never sleep again
Verse 2
You kicked and cried like a bullied child
A grown man of twenty-five
Oh, he said he’d cure your ills
But he didn’t, and he never will
Oh, save your life
Because you’ve only got one
Chorus
The dream has gone
But the baby is real
Oh, you did a good thing
She could have been a poet
Or she could have been a fool
Oh, you did a bad thing
And I’m not happy and I’m not sad
Verse 3
A shoeless child on a swing
Reminds you of your own again
She took away your troubles
Oh, but then again, she left pain
Oh, please save your life
Because you’ve only got one
Chorus
The dream has gone
But the baby is real
Oh, you did a good thing
She could have been a poet
Or she could have been a fool
Oh, you did a bad thing
And I’m not happy and I’m not sad
Outro
Oh, la-la, oh, oh, la-la
And I’m not happy and I’m not sad
Oh, la-la, oh-oh, oh, la-la
And I’m not happy and I’m not sad
Similar Songs Like This Night Has Opened My Eyes
If you enjoy the haunting storytelling, jangly guitar melodies, and emotional depth of This Night Has Opened My Eyes, these Smiths songs offer a similar listening experience.
- Reel Around the Fountain: A reflective track featuring delicate guitar work and introspective lyrics that capture youthful uncertainty and longing.
- I Know It’s Over: One of Morrissey’s most emotionally powerful performances, exploring heartbreak, loneliness, and vulnerability with striking honesty.
- Back to the Old House: An acoustic-driven song filled with nostalgia and regret, showcasing the band’s softer and more intimate side.
- Please, Please, Please, Let Me Get What I Want: A brief yet poignant ballad that combines heartfelt lyrics with beautiful instrumentation, making it one of The Smiths’ most beloved songs.
- Suffer Little Children: A haunting and atmospheric track that demonstrates the band’s ability to tackle serious themes through evocative storytelling and memorable melodies.
Similar Artists Like The Smiths
Here are some more artists that will keep your playlist filled with thoughtful lyrics, jangly guitars, and influential alternative rock sounds like The Smiths.
- The Cure
Genre: Alternative Rock, Post-Punk, Gothic Rock
Top Albums: Disintegration, Kiss Me, Kiss Me, Kiss Me, Pornography - Echo & the Bunnymen
Genre: Post-Punk, Alternative Rock
Top Albums: Ocean Rain, Crocodiles, Porcupine - The Housemartins
Genre: Indie Pop, Alternative Rock
Top Albums: London 0 Hull 4, The People Who Grinned Themselves to Death - Orange Juice
Genre: Indie Pop, Post-Punk
Top Albums: You Can’t Hide Your Love Forever, Rip It Up, Texas Fever
Frequently Asked Questions
Where was This Night Has Opened My Eyes First Recorded?
The song was recorded during BBC Radio sessions before appearing on Hatful of Hollow, giving it a distinctive raw sound.
How Long is This Night Has Opened My Eyes?
The original recording runs for approximately three minutes and forty seconds, balancing detailed storytelling with concise songwriting.
What Makes Johnny Marr’s Guitar Work Unique?
Marr uses layered arpeggios and melodic phrasing that create a rich, atmospheric backdrop for Morrissey’s narrative lyrics.
Does This Night Has Opened My Eyes Reflect The Smiths’ Style?
Yes, it combines literary lyrics, emotional themes, and jangly guitar textures that became trademarks of The Smiths’ sound.
