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Our Top 10 James Morrison Songs list showcases the soulful and heartfelt music of this talented singer, songwriter, and musician. James Morrison won the hearts of millions of fans with his soulful voice and heartwarming music. Fans enjoyed his music for over a decade. The multi-talented singer and songwriter released multiple chart-topping albums and singles in various countries. He earned critical acclaim for his fascinating work. James Morrison is known for writing emotional and powerful lyrics that resonate with listeners around the globe. His impressive musical catalog includes the hit singles “You Give Me Something,” “I Won’t Let You Go,” “Broken Strings,” “Wonderful World,” “You Make It Real,” and “The Pieces Don’t Fit Anymore.” In addition to penning his music, he writes for other artists. Some of his clients include Demi Lovato, Olly Murs, Marco Carta, Kelly Clarkson, and Clay Aiken.
James Morrison Catchpole was born on August 13, 1984. His parents enjoyed various music, so it’s no surprise he became a fan. While growing up, his musical influences included Stevie Wonder, Otis Redding, and Van Morrison. Stevie Wonder’s soulful voice had a profound effect on him. His uncle showed him how to play guitar during his childhood years. He decided to write music after spending time singing cover songs. He credits his unique and powerful singing voice to a whooping cough. James Morrison’s debut single “You Give Me Something” was a success. The single reached the Top five in different countries. His platinum-selling debut album Undiscovered dropped in July 2006. It features the songs “You Give Me Something,” “Wonderful World,” “The Pieces Don’t Fit Anymore,” and “Undiscovered.”
In September 2008, James Morrison released Songs for You, Truths for Me. This album includes the singles “Broken Strings,” “You Make It Real,” “Please Don’t Stop the Rain,” “Nothing Ever Hurt Like You,” and “Get to You.” After a successful run with his second album, he released The Awakening in September 2011. The Awakening includes the singles “I Won’t Let You Go,” “Up,” “Slave to the Music,” “One Life,” and “Beautiful Life.” James Morrison’s fourth album, Higher Than Here dropped in October 2015. Standout songs are “Demons,” “Stay Like This,” and “I Need You Tonight.” You’re Stronger Than You Know premiered in March 2019. His album spawned the singles “My Life Goes On,” “Power,” and “So Beautiful.”
James Morrison’s talent reaches listeners across the world. His sincere and honest music touches the hearts of fans. With soulful vocals and heartfelt lyrics, the artist couldn’t lose. Our Top 10 James Morrison Songs list highlights his best songs.
# 10 – Who’s Gonna Love Me Now?
The 10th song on our Top 10 James Morrison Songs list is “Who’s Gonna Love Me Now?” and appears on his Greatest Hits album. James Morrison released this single in 2021. “Who’s Gonna Love Me Now?” depicts the pain of feeling unloved and alone. The sentimental lyrics convey a sense of loneliness and longing for a lost love. He suffers from depression because no one loves or wants him. Since his former lover doesn’t love him, what happens to him if no one takes her place? It’s a constant struggle trying to replace the love he lost. He feels torn and incomplete without love in his life. Finding love matters to him because he needs to feel connected to someone.
“Who’s Gonna Love Me Now?” delves into the emotional turmoil of finding a new love. It speaks to people who long to find love after getting their hearts broken. Heartbreak is a widespread experience that all of us go through in life. James Morrison’s heartfelt lyrics excellently portray the struggle to find new love in your life. The fear of being alone is terrifying. It’s an experience that resonates with everyone. James Morrison wrote a relatable song that fans understand. Musically, the song is a surprise because of the upbeat melody. With sad lyrics like these, the music is usually melancholy. The hitmaker took a different route. He opted for energetic music over melancholic tunes. Dancing takes your mind off depression. The dazzling music works for clubs or dancing at home. James Morrison’s vocals blend well with the music. His husky vocals shine when he sings the chorus. His melodies are showstopping. We couldn’t pick a better track than this to start our list.
# 9 – So Beautiful
Our ninth pick is “So Beautiful.” “So Beautiful” is from the album You’re Stronger Than You Know. It is the third single, and it premiered in 2019. “So Beautiful” is a track that speaks about underappreciating the love you lost. This realization hits you like a boomerang. You won’t notice its impact until you lose the person you love. James Morrison reflects on his selfishness and doesn’t appreciate his girlfriend. His lack of appreciation cost him the love of his life. When he realized his mistake, it was too late to fix it. Inevitably, she walked out of his life. Now that she’s gone, he realizes how beautiful she is. It taught him to learn from his mistakes. He apologizes for his mistakes. If given another chance, things must change.
“So Beautiful” paints a candid picture of self-reflection. Acknowledging past mistakes makes a difference in your future. It teaches you to appreciate what you have while you still have it. In the blink of an eye, everything you want disappears. This compelling song is fitting for anyone who regrets not appreciating the love they have in their lives. James Morrison shows fans the value of their partners. The song teaches you not to take love for granted. This universal track benefits all relationships. It doesn’t just affect couples. Family and friends need appreciation. Sincere lyrics help make the song appealing to various people. This song is reminiscent of Ed Sheeran’s catalog. The soulful music stirs emotions inside as you hear it. “So Beautiful’s” hypnotic music blows your mind. This track has soothing piano chords that entice you to fall in love with the instrumentation. It’s a soulful track and caters to James Morrison’s husky and rich vocals. His love of Stevie Wonder’s voice shows throughout the track. He channels Stevie Wonder through each verse. The moving song belongs on your playlist.
# 8 – Please Don’t Stop the Rain
Our eighth choice is “Please Don’t Stop the Rain.” “Please Don’t Stop the Rain” is the third track from the album Songs for You, Truths for Me. He released this song in March 2009. This captivating song discusses accepting and embracing the unpredictability of life during tough times. The song opens with him questioning why his relationship ended. Their relationship suffered from challenges. Despite his confusion, he desires to make things better between them. Things were topsy-turvy between them throughout their relationship. Relationships deal with good and bad times. Even though relationships deal with challenges, you shouldn’t give up on them.
“Please Don’t Stop the Rain” is a gentle song that focuses on relationships and the challenges that happen in them. It teaches you that some things in life are out of your control. Embracing life’s challenges is essential to moving on in life. It encourages listeners to live in the moment. James Morrison wants fans to appreciate life despite adversity. If you’re in a tumultuous relationship, the lyrics hit home for you. He explores the complicated dynamic between love and hate. The singer covers different stages of relationships. He doesn’t sugarcoat how relationships work. James Morrison opens your eyes to the reality of love. The scintillating music sets the tone for the song. It’s the icing on a delicious cake. This song features gentle and melodic instrumentation that balances the lyrics. James Morrison’s performance deserves a standing ovation because of the vocal risks he takes. His impeccable timing takes the song to heights unknown. He shows vulnerability throughout the track. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a new listener, this song leaves a positive impression. If you’re a fan of heartfelt ballads, this song is for you.
# 7 – The Pieces Don’t Fit Anymore
“The Pieces Don’t Fit Anymore” lands in the seventh spot on our list. The song appears on the Undiscovered album. James Morrison released this track in December 2006. This alluring song talks about struggling to make a relationship work. Letting go of what doesn’t work is the best solution to the problem. Holding on to something that doesn’t work is counterproductive. It’s time to stop pretending everything is okay when it isn’t. He talks about forcing something that doesn’t fit and how it leads to pain and disappointment.
The introspective song encourages listeners to understand the importance of letting go of something that doesn’t work. It is necessary to let go when things become unsustainable. Despite our good intentions, people don’t fit together anymore. For our peace of mind and well-being, it’s time to let go. James Morrison covers all the bases with this track. He covers conflicting emotions of whether to stay or go effortlessly. The song showcases his ingenious songwriting talents and ability to tell a story couples relate to. Stories about relationships are in James Morrison’s wheelhouse. He’s a connoisseur when it comes to writing about relationships. The songs make you feel like he’s looking into your diary for material. His personal touches lend authenticity to the songs. He draws from personal experience that makes the stories engaging. The piano-driven arrangement complements the lyrics. His vocals are hauntingly beautiful and fit the mood of the song.
# 6 – You Make It Real
“You Make It Real” is from the album Songs for You, Truths for Me. The single made its debut in September 2008. This song is about being connected to an extraordinary person in your life. The song opens with James Morrison talking about the world suffocating him. When he loses faith and feels lost, she brings him back to reality. She anchors him and holds him down when the world is on his shoulders. Her actions remind him of what matters in the world. Anytime his heart feels weak, she enables him to feel better.
This impactful song showcases the effects the right person brings to your life. The emotional lyrics convey how people inspire you when you’re feeling down. The love of a good person gets you through terrible times. James Morrison’s “You Make It Real” is a poignant display of his emotional depth and vulnerability. When you feel down, having somebody by your side is comforting. James Morrison’s heart-wrenching lyrics make you feel better about life. They make you want to smile while you’re listening to them. The stripped-down musical arrangement gives the song a melodic touch. It gives him a chance to show off his tender and emotional side. We enjoy hearing James Morrison pour his heart out in his vocals. His tender vocals and lyrics are a match made in heaven. He speaks from his heart and holds nothing back. If you enjoy heartfelt love songs, you can’t go wrong with “You Make It Real.”
# 5 – Up – ft. Jessie J
The fifth song on our Top 10 James Morrison Songs list is “Up.” “Up” appears on The Awakening album. “Up’s” release date was November 2011. The encouraging song is about reaching out to someone hiding from their problems. Rather than facing his problems, he chooses to escape from them. The goal is to turn his life around. He is in a dark place and needs encouragement. His relationship fell apart at the seams. It’s never too late to turn things around. Jessie J emphasizes James Morrison’s repeated behavioral pattern. She’s frustrated because he makes excuses for his actions. Jessie J believes their love is strong enough to get them through hardship.
“Up” is a motivating song about self-doubt. People hide when their lives fall apart. It’s easier hiding from problems than dealing with them head-on. Listening to this hopeful tune reminds you that light is at the end of the tunnel. It’s a powerful message that listeners can identify with in their lives. If bad things occur, going up is the only option. Knowing that things get better gives you something to look forward to. The lyrics hit home because most people feel like they live in a dark place. Listening to this song encourages you to turn your life around. James Morrison used his father as an inspiration for this song. We cheer him on for writing a personal song that people resonate with. The sincere lyrics give him a chance to tackle a different subject. James Morrison and Jessie J’s vocals soar throughout the song. They sing the song as if it affects them personally. Their emotions shine through in the song. If you need a pick-me-up, this track belongs in your playlist. Everything about the song works, from the music to the stunning performances.
# 4 – Wonderful World
A song worth checking out is “Wonderful World.” “Wonderful World” is the second single from the album Undiscovered. It came out in July 2006. This song expresses feelings of loneliness. He feels low and out of place. Seeing other people happy makes him sad. His constant mistakes make him feel like an outsider. He struggles to find his place in the world. Despite being optimistic, his sadness causes despair. He longs for someone to love and support him. Does he have rights when it concerns dreams? He wishes to connect with someone.
“Wonderful World” examines the dissatisfaction of loneliness. The song depicts the idea that believing in love makes someone’s life better. It describes how most people feel about life. Loneliness makes people feel like no one will love and support them. James Morrison’s knack for writing songs that reach listeners is mind-blowing. He always knows the right thing to say to make you think. He writes songs you feel in your soul. Even if you can’t relate, you empathize with the situation. The soul-stirring guitar riffs grab your attention instantly. It features dramatic instrumentation that sets this song on fire. James Morrison’s astonishing vocals set the tone for the song. He shows off his impeccable vocal skills instantaneously. We applaud him for not saving the best for last. His invigorating vocals take you away. James Morrison displays genuine passion in this song. If you enjoy power singing, this song is for you.
# 3 – Broken Strings – ft. Nelly Furtado
Number three on our list is “Broken Strings.” It’s the second single from the album Songs for You, Truths for Me. The duo released the single in December 2008. “Broken Strings” talks about a couple going through problems. They try holding onto something that’s already broken. Losing your emotional connection with each other is detrimental to your relationship. Realizing your love isn’t genuine hits you like lightning. They tried making the relationship work, but it caused friction between them. James Morrison and Nelly Furtado realize it’s too late to save their relationship because they can’t pretend everything is okay.
“Broken Strings” portrays a couple at a point of no return. Despite their best intentions, they can’t fix a broken relationship. The once inseparable couple drifted apart. This powerful song captures when a relationship dies. If your relationship is on the rocks, this song hits home for you. This song is an honest depiction of a couple in turmoil. The story is so realistic that it feels like they were telling your story. It’s a reminder that pretending everything is okay leads to heartbreak. The moving music stirs something in your soul. It’s a guitar-laden ballad that screams electrifying. James Morrison and Nelly Furtado were born to sing with each other. His baritone vocals and her soprano vocals make magic happen. Their voices complement each other. It is impossible to resist singing this song with the dynamic duo.
# 2 – I Won’t Let You Go
Our second pick is “I Won’t Let You Go.” It’s the first single from the album The Awakening. This single dropped in August 2011. This heartfelt ballad focuses on him being there for someone during dark times. His girlfriend is in a dark place, and he wants to support her. Things fall apart, but he won’t let her down. His shoulder is there for her to cry on. He refuses to let her deal with anything alone. When she drowns in despair, he provides support for her. She comforted him when the roles reversed. He wants to return the favor.
This song is an affirmation that love heals what’s bothering you. Having the support of loved ones is priceless. It enables you to feel as if you’re not alone. The cathartic lyrics capture how it feels to have someone there for you when things are rough. You can’t put a price on comfort and support. The beautifully written song is like getting comfort from a friend. “I Won’t Let You Go” has universal lyrics because it applies to anyone. James Morrison wrote this song from a relationship point of view, but it applies to everyone. It’s relatable to anyone seeking a support system. James Morrison deserves credit for creating a track that symbolizes love and support. His soulful vocals soar effortlessly throughout the song. He takes chances in the song, and we love it. James Morrison held notes and surprised us.
# 1 – You Give Me Something
We reached the number one song on our Top 10 James Morrison Songs list. “You Give Me Something” is from the Undiscovered album. This tune premiered in July 2006. “You Give Me Something” is about a complex relationship. He appreciates what she’s done for him, even though he doesn’t deserve it. She thinks of him, but he doesn’t always do the same. He wants to change that, but it’s hard for him. Fear takes over because he never felt this way before. Despite his fear, he takes a leap of faith and puts his heart on the line. Someday, he hopes to know his heart and express his feelings.
“You Give Me Something” is an infectious song that celebrates the power of love and its ability to change you. James Morrison describes putting your heart on the line after getting hurt. Getting over hurt feelings is a struggle most people face in life. This song teaches you to release your fear and give love a chance. The arousing music is engaging and takes your breath away. This song has stunning musical changes that take the track to the next level. It starts softly and transitions into an orchestral instrumentation when he gets to the chorus. This song does wonders for his vocals. It showcases his electrifying ability to soar vocally to the mountaintops. He channels his inner Stevie Wonder in this song. It’s obvious Stevie Wonder is one of his influences. “You Give Me Something” is his first single, but he sounds like he’s been singing forever. If James Morrison wasn’t in your playlist before, this song is reason enough to add him.
Top 10 James Morrison Songs article published on Classic RockHistory.com© 2023
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![Rob De Luca of Spread Eagle, Sebastian Bach & UFO: 10 Albums That Changed My Life From humble East Coast origins to grandest stages worldwide, veteran bassist Rob De Luca has seen and done it all. De Luca first hit the local Boston rock and metal scene in the late 80s after meeting guitarist Paul DiBartolo, bonding over Van Halen before forming Bang. Regional success came quickly, but eventually, the members of Bang went their separate ways, with De Luca and drummer Tommi Gallo heading to NYC and hooking up with Ray West and, later, DiBartolo to form Spread Eagle. By 1990, Spread Eagle was on the fast track, with a contract through MCA Records and a self-titled debut album poised to crush skulls. But poor timing and MCA's sad indifference left Spead Eagle out in the cold despite being a hard-boiled answer to Guns N' Roses's West Coast sleaze. Spread Eagle's first chapter came to an end in '95. As for Rob De Luca, his nimble fingers and gift for melody and songwriting kept him moving forward. Soon, he found a gig with former Skid Row frontman Sebastian Bach and the legendary outfit UFO. And in 2010, after coupling up with Ray West and his cousin Rik De Luca, Spread Eagle retook flight. During a break from Spread Eagle's increasingly busy touring schedule, Rob De Luca dialed in with ClassicRockHistory.com to run through the ten albums that changed his life. But only after adding, "I made a playlist of these songs, including some I've written or co-written. Do you hear any of these albums' influence on me?" Listen here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3LWJuhDrE8JmzhsmTeIDUq 10) Gentlemen by Afghan Whigs (1993) Here's an entry that was so important to me. This may be the darkest break-up album of all time. Greg Dulli has been in many projects, but I feel Gentlemen is his zenith. Somewhat undefinable at times but always profound and honest. Listen to "Gentlemen," "Fountain and Fairfax," and "What Jail Is Like." 9) In on the Kill Taker by Fugazi (1993) By this time, I had been sucked in and spit out by the major-label record industry. Glam came and went; grunge was history, too. I was searching for new sounds. When I heard Fugazi's twin guitar approach, I knew this was what was missing. Fugazi may be considered a less polished sound than the albums above; however, once you "get it," it hits you like a ton of bricks, and there's no going back. From the moment I heard Fugazi, I went to every NYC show after. It's easily some of the best concerts of my life, and possibly my favorite bassist in Joe Lally. And their DIY ethics refused to charge us more than $5 a show! In on the Kill Taker is a powerful album demonstrated in songs such as "Smallpox Champion," "Great Cop," and "Public Witness Program." 8) Appetite for Destruction by Guns N' Roses (1987) I discovered many of these albums (sometimes long) after they were released. However, I was at the right place at the right time for this one. Steve Ostromogilsky had a Berklee College of Music lunch card and used to sneak out sandwiches for me. One day, he invited me to hang out at his place and listen to music. As we got off the train, he put Sony Walkman headphones on my ears and said, "Hey, check out this brand-new group." A song like "It's So Easy" was so different from the popular Sunset Strip sound at that time. Me and about 499 other informed rockers were lucky enough to see them on their first East Coast tour at the sold-out Paradise on Commonwealth Avenue, Boston (the same street Aerosmith started on). I saw Gn'R every tour after until I took a break when Buckethead joined. Gn'R is the band I've been lucky enough to see the most times live, almost 100! Everyone on this album is just stellar. Axl [Rose] had the tones, power, melodic sensibilities, and foresight to do what no other singer did then. Slash's playing was beyond memorable. Duff [McKagan] is one of the most underrated bassists in rock history, and learning his Appetite basslines is a masterclass. Steven [Adler] had the natural swing, and Izzy [Stradlin] was the secret weapon songwriter. Everything that's been heralded about this gem is deserved and true. Check out "It's So Easy," "Out Ta Get Me," and "Mr. Brownstone.' 7) Wish You Were Here by Pink Floyd (1975) Another contender for my favorite album and band of all time. Using The Beatles machine (same recording studio, engineer, record label), Pink Floyd made what I feel is their strongest, most cohesive album (my second favorite of theirs would be Animals). This list mainly consists of bands with an instantly recognizable sound. Floyd is certainly no exception to that! This album included a solid handful of undeniable rock radio classics, bookended by two halves of the mind-blowing song "Shine on You Crazy Diamond.' That song was written about former band member and founder Syd Barrett. It would be hard to live in a world without this album. Check out "Welcome to The Machine," "Shine on You Crazy Diamond (parts 6-9),' or even better yet, listen to the whole thing in one sitting! 6) Decade by Neil Young (1977) About this time, I started playing guitar. As a beginner, it was comfortable jamming to this album because the chord changes were simple—a great "first ten years" retrospective of Neil's stunning, unique songwriting. Neil is a treasure who always writes from the heart and stands up for what's right. Check out "Southern Man," "A Man Needs a Maid," "Down by The River," and "After the Goldrush." 5) Highway to Hell by AC/DC (1979) When I heard this album, I was firmly "me." My life would be 100% focused on hard rock music forever. AC/DC are like air; they're ubiquitous. Everyone knows them and their incredible songs. However, as a young teen in Wilmington, Delaware, I only had WMMR 93.3 FM Philadelphia and a few friends to inform me about the world of Rock outside my bedroom. AC/DC had not gone mainstream, and their albums were available primarily in the USA as imports. To put things more in perspective, I only knew two people in the world who had heard of AC/DC. A friend had an import that we played in Steve Buckley's basement, which sounded ripping. When Highway to Hell was released, WMMR started spinning the title track, and I immediately bought the album, listening to it every single day after school. Then WMMR announced AC/DC was coming to the Spectrum in Philly, supporting Ted Nugent! I liked Ted but loved AC/DC, so my good friend Mick Cummins and I bought tickets, and he drove us up to the Spectrum (where we saw most of our concerts). Bon Scott was in fine form, and the band went over great. Although the crowd knew Ted better, Angus [Young] wouldn't let anyone upstage him. I'll never forget it! Unfortunately, Bon would be gone in 6 months. Check out "Walk All Over You," "Touch Too Much," "Shot Down in Flames," and "If You Want Blood (You Got It)." 4) Toys in the Attic by Aerosmith (1975) By the time I heard this, I was now in my teens. I had a childhood friend up the street, Jim Linberg (we're still good buddies). His older sister had a great album collection, including Toys in The Attic. Once I heard that groove, my taste changed. I lost interest in rock music that didn't have some sort of "swing" feel to it. I think Rocks is a slightly better Aerosmith album (and possibly my favorite album of all time), but both are perfect or very close. Check out "Uncle Salty," "Adam's Apple," "No More No More," "Round and Round," and "You See Me Crying." 3) Alive! by Kiss (1975) When I was still a little kid, I asked for Cheech and Chong's Up in Smoke album for Christmas. The entire family came over for an enormous feast, and I dropped the needle. When my mother heard the content, she turned off the album and said I had to exchange it. My mom was cool, but I was young and knew much more about life than she suspected. Anyway, the next day, she drove me back to the store. In the music section, promoted on an "endcap" was a Kiss Alive! display. I had never heard of Kiss, but that cover picture told me I had to have it! My first foray into hard rock. Check out “Strutter.” I went through my Kiss phase very quickly, I believe in a matter of months because I discovered the previous entry, Aerosmith's Toys in the Attic. 2) Honky Chateau by Elton John (1972) When I was a wee lad, my parents bought a used Volkswagen camper van from my uncle Ozzie. My favorite Elton John album is Yellow Brick Road, but Honky Chateau is great and easily one of his best. It sent me down a lifelong rabbit hole of loving everything about the 1970s partnership between Elton and lyricist Bernie Taupin. The simple beauty of voice, the master songwriting, the perfect backing band, the clear, unobtrusive recordings, and always Bernie's incredible lyrics. The day this album was released, Elton became an unstoppable force that conquered the music industry. Check out "Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters" and "Rocket Man." 1) Sergeant Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band by The Beatles (1967) Another tape that was included in the VW Camper. The van had a bunch of music tapes, and one was Sgt Pepper. I was too young to understand the sophistication of the music, but that was one of the many skills of The Beatles. They attracted listeners at every level, even little kids. I still feel that immediate connection to Sgt Pepper; now, I hear so much more. It's an album that changed the world and the world of music. Check out "Lucy in The Sky with Diamonds," "A Day In The Life," and "Fixing a Hole."](http://www.classicrockhistory.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Shutterstock_1815495569-1-300x200.jpg)
