Known as "Van the Man" by his fans, Morrison first rose to prominence as the lead singer of the Northern Irish band Them, writing their 1964 hit "Gloria". A few years later, Morrison left the band for a successful solo career, starting with the album Astral Weeks.
Morrison has pursued an idiosyncratic musical path. Much of his music is tightly structured around the conventions of American soul and R&B, such as the popular singles "Brown Eyed Girl", "Moondance", "Domino", and "Wild Night". An equal part of his catalogue consists of lengthy, loosely connected, spiritually inspired musical journeys that show the influence of Celtic tradition, jazz, and stream-of-consciousness narrative, such as his classic album Astral Weeks and lesser known works such as Veedon Fleece and Common One. The two strains together are sometimes referred to as "Celtic Soul," and Morrison rejects the characterization of his genre of music as Rock, citing Elvis Presley as a non-influence.
He continues to perform regularly and achieved his highest U.S. chart position (number ten on the Billboard 200) with his 2008 album, Keep It Simple.
Back on the Corner
Van Morrison Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
I'm right back on th' corner
I've been in this condition so many times before
Back by my lonesome
I'm right back by my lonesome
Just watching th' people going from door to door
And try to quit this place
'Cause one of these rainy days
I'm gonna need a friendly face
I'm back on th' corner
I'm right back on th' corner
I've been in this condition so many times before
I've got to change my ways
And try to quit this place
'Cause one of these rainy days
I'm gonna be a mental case
In Van Morrison's song "Back on the Corner," the lyrics depict the singer's personal struggle with addiction and loneliness. The repeated lines "I'm back on th' corner, I'm right back on th' corner" reflect a cycle of relapse that the singer has experienced repeatedly. He finds himself back in his usual spot, watching the people pass by and feeling the weight of his own isolation. The recognition that he has been in this condition "so many times before" suggests that this struggle is a constant in his life, and not one that is easily overcome.
The singer recognizes the need to change his ways and leave this place, but it's clear that he feels trapped by both his addiction and his surroundings. The lyrics hint at a future breakdown, with the line "I'm gonna be a mental case" suggesting that without intervention or change, the singer's mental health will begin to suffer under the weight of his struggles. The act of seeking out a "friendly face" is both practical advice and reflective of the singer's deep loneliness.
Overall, "Back on the Corner" is a poignant reflection on the cyclical nature of addiction and the powerlessness that often comes with it. The song is a mournful acknowledgement of the struggle that many face, and a call to action to seek help and make a change.
Line by Line Meaning
I'm back on th' corner
I find myself back in my usual spot on the street corner
I'm right back on th' corner
I'm exactly where I always end up
I've been in this condition so many times before
I've found myself in this same situation countless times
Back by my lonesome
Alone again, just me and my thoughts
I'm right back by my lonesome
Here I am, alone and feeling sorry for myself
Just watching th' people going from door to door
I'm stuck here watching the comings and goings of passersby
I've got to change my ways
I need to make some changes if I want a different outcome
And try to quit this place
I need to leave this spot and start fresh somewhere else
'Cause one of these rainy days
If I don't change something soon, I'm going to hit rock bottom
I'm gonna need a friendly face
I'll need someone to turn to for help when things get really bad
I'm gonna be a mental case
If I don't get out of here and make some changes, I'm going to lose my mind
Lyrics Β© BMG Rights Management
Written by: MOSE ALLISON
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
Christian Wagner
I've been listening to this show for years, but sweet mother of god, I didn't know there was video! The energy here is just outstanding.
Paul RJ
I dubbed the video from an old friend to DVD... priceless.
Carol Winans
IAM STILL HERE BENDING MY EAR LISTENING TO REASONS TO FILL MY EARS !!!!!π
Robert Baugher
that Leo Green and Pee Wee Ellis saxophone bit at 12:07 is my all time favorite
Katherine Page
Absolutely full body, spirit and soul. He only gets better with time. Thank you God for this holy spirit in human body form, singing about you. I am so blessed everytime I hear Van's songs and his renition of life.
Douglas Monk
THAT IS SO ON TARGET. THE BULLS-EYE! GOOD JOB!
Christopher Williams
Great album, Van even smiles a few times and looks like he is enjoying himself. Those musicians must feel good that they have contributed to a selection of songs by Van Morrison as he changes his line up all the time, great stuff !
Bettie Mccall
What a GREAT performance!!! When God made him, He threw away the mold lol. He's truly one of a kind!!!
Thomas Haslam
GOD is Irish !
martin williams
Brian kennady on backing vocals is a great voice and always fits in nicely with vans voice. Great gig and great musicians very enjoyable ..........