20 Gleaming Light Songs | Playlist

20 Gleaming Light Songs features songs by Ella Langley, Ice Spice, John Summit, Lana Del Rey, Noah Kahan, and Red Sebastian.

Good fucking question, John Summit, you handsome devil 🫢🤭! Ella Langley also has something to say about the lights: “So tonight I’m giving in / To every temptation I see on your lips / Getting high on you and me / Underneath these low LIGHTS.” Ooh-la-la 🥵 😈! Lana Del Rey, what are your thoughts on L-I-G-H-T? “Run into the sun like / It’s your first LIGHT of the day when you wake / Is it real or is it fake?” Summit, Langley, and Del Rey are all invested in light, the theme of 20 Gleaming Light Songs.

20 Gleaming Light Songs is the latest light-driven musical compendium.  It’s not the first, nor will it likely be the last.  Previous light-centric playlists include 13 Songs Propelled by Light (2018) and 13 More Songs Propelled by Light (2023). It’s no secret about the expectations or requirements: light, light, and more LIGHT! 20 Gleaming Light Songs features songs by Ella Langley, Ice Spice, John Summit, Lana Del Rey, Noah Kahan, and Red Sebastian. So, without further ado, whether you like your lights bright, dimmed, or turned off, let’s jump into these 20 Gleaming Light Songs!

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~ Table of Contents ~

1. John Summit, “LIGHTS GO OUT”	2. Lana Del Rey, “First Light”	3. Fred again.. & Jamie T, “Lights Burn Dimmer”
4. Ella Langley, “Low Lights”	5. Noah Kahan, “Porch Light”	6. Kyle Alessandro, “Lighter”
7. Ice Spice, “Gimmie a Light”	8. Red Sebastian, “Strobe Lights”	9. Lil Nas X, “LIGHT AGAIN!”
10. Billy Joel, “Turn the Lights Back On”	11. Joji & Diplo, “Daylight”	12. Grant Brett, “Lights Down Low”
13. Col3trane, “Lights Out”	14. Angrybaby, “LIGHTS DOWN LOW”	15. Whitney Houston, “You Light Up My Life”
16. Tom Hulce & Tony Jay, “Heaven’s Light / Hellfire”	17. Vicki Lawrence, “The Night the Lights Went Out in Georgia”	18. Parliament, “Flash Light”
19. Manfred Mann’s Earth Band, “Blinded By The Light”	20. King Harvest, “Dancing in the Moonlight”

 

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1. John Summit, “LIGHTS GO OUT”

CTRL ESCAPE » Experts Only / Darkroom Records » 2026

John Summit is a boss, NO CAP! When it comes to dance and electronic music, the hunky DJ and producer does the damn thing.  I can assure you that the damn thing is done again on his single, “LIGHTS GO OUT”.  “LIGHTS GO OUT” is the sixth track from his second studio album, CTRL ESCAPE. Summit wrote and produced “LIGHTS GO OUT” alongside Beau Nox, Pocket, and Thom Bridges.  Take one listen, and the party is on, full throttle!

“LIGHTS GO OUT” opens with a bang. Pardon my French, but it’s actually a fucking bang! How so? Part of the bang is the fucking f-bomb-filled lyrics: “Where do we go when the lights go out? / When the fucking lights go out.” Woo! The lyrics are repeated throughout this hard-nosed dance/electronic banger.  There are at least 17 f-bombs – you’re welcome! “LIGHTS”  is filled with brilliant, often intense, boisterous, and playful synths and an intense, pummeling beat that hits you in the chest. Summit compels with his energetic instrumental lines, which keep the same energy, if not exceed, the lights going out lyrics.  More could be said, but this song right here is best experienced by listening and embracing the energy! All told, John Summit does his big one on “LIGHTS GO OUT”.  This joint goes hard as fizzuck, and the rave – well – it’s raving!

Appears in 🔻:

Striking Bops from February 2026 Best Songs of 2026 (So Far)

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2. Lana Del Rey, “First Light”

“First Light” » Lana Del Rey / Universal Music Operations Limited » 2026

Thought-provoking! What happens when Grammy-nominated alternative pop singer-songwriter Lana Del Rey and the James Bond/007 franchise join forces? Sheer brilliance.  Del Rey’s “First Light” is not for a new film, but rather for a video game.  From a first listen, “First Light” is incredibly distinct – different from everything else you’ll hear. Del Rey wrote “First Light” with David Arnold. The results are nothing short of intriguing, striking, and unique.

First and foremost, Lana Del Rey brings it vocally on “First Light.” Her tone is beautiful, haunting, indulgent, and all the things. She is the perfect vocalist to helm a James Bond theme. The melodies are divine, with the lyrics compelling, too. “Baby, come on / You know what you’ve always wanted to do,” she sings in the second verse, and continues, “But there’s one life for you.” The orchestration supporting Del Rey is cinematic, dramatic, and dynamic to the nth degree.  This is fitting for a video game or film soundtrack, particularly the Bond franchise.  There is typical pop/rock instrumentation, alongside the lush, soaring strings and inescapable horns. The chorus is big, supported by assertive, highly articulated, biting horn riffs. Lyrically, it’s a high-flying, memorable moment for Del Rey:

“Can’t say I’m surprised to see you running towards the sun

Like a moth to a flame (Hey)

People try and stop you, but all the fates just watch you

Dying just to know whether you’ll play your life like a game.”

“First Light” is a triumphant moment for Lana Del Rey.

Appears in 🔻:

Striking Bops from May 2026 Best Songs of 2026 (So Far)

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3. Fred again.. & Jamie T, “Lights Burn Dimmer”

USB » Atlantic Records UK / Warner Music UK Limited » 2026

Fred again.. (Fred Gibson) never ceases to amaze with his creativity and prolific output. He taps Jamie T (Jamie Treays) for the assist on the unforgettable “Lights Burn Dimmer,” the opening track from his 2026 album, USB. “Lights Burn Dimmer” was written by Fred again.., Jamie T, and Olly Burden. Fred produced it. This joint right here is one of one; distinct!

“Lights Burn Dimmer” intrigues from the get-go. It commences with distorted guitar sounds. Soon enough, wavy, effects-filled vocals by Jamie T enter the picture.  His rapping catches the ear, yielding a compelling cadence and flow.  Interesting, rather than growing more stable, it almost seems as if things grow cloudier – more nebulous.  Further complicating, yet blessing the listening experience, are boisterous rhythmic synths.  Anchoring things down is a thumping beat.  As “Lights Burn Dimmer,” it only grows bigger, more intense with the layering, and, of course, more rhythmic. Fred again.., with his skill behind the board, and Jamie T with his alluring, confident rhymes (“Black Bimmer, dead man ringer / Part singer, tinted out to fuck / You know I’m all love, you know I’m all love”), have created quite the captivating, one-of-a-kind listening experience with “Lights Burn Dimmer.”

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4. Ella Langley, “Low Lights”

Dandelion » SAWGOD Records / Columbia » 2026

Oh, wow, Ella Langley, you naughty girl, you! On “Low Lights,” the fifth track from her sophomore album, Dandelion, she is “giving in / To every temptation I see on your lips.” Guess where, folks? “Underneath these low lights.” Ella said what she said, ya hear?! “Low Lights” was written by Langley, Gideon Klein, and Joybeth Taylor. Langley, Ben West, and Miranda Lambert produced it.

The centerpiece, the chorus, is the first section we hear on “Low Lights.”  The tone is set, and it is a familiar one. Desire and lust – they are powerful things.  In the verse, there is smoking and drinking, amplifying the less-than-holy happenings. “My good’s just as gone as this Jack and Coke,” Ella sings, and continues, “This feeling I could fight / But tonight, my hands are tied.” My, my, my! In the bridge, the intensity and innuendo remain locked in. “Your hands are driving me crazy / Your eyes are driving me crazy,” Langley asserts, and concludes, “Am I driving you crazy? / Damn, I must be crazy.” Damn, right, girl! Ultimately, Ella Langley delivers another high-flying performance. She sings expressively, sincerely, and chock-full of twang when it comes to S meets E, and then they X. Upping the ante on this ballad is gorgeous production, memorable songwriting, and a sweet harmonic progression.  Gotta shout out the musical underpinnings! “Choosin’ Texas” is her ace, but those “Low Lights” are enticing too!

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5. Noah Kahan, “Porch Light”

The Great Divide » Mercury Records » 2026

Grammy-nominated Vermont singer-songwriter Noah Kahan said what he said on “Porch Light”! Colorful as always, he adds, “It is not irrelevant that you stopped taking your medicine, / But I’m giving you the benefit ‘cause it’s raining out.” Oh, snap! “Porch Light” is the second single, and the 11^th track from Kahan’s fourth studio album, The Great Divide. Kahan and Aaron Dessner composed the track.  Kahan, Dessner, and Gabe Simon produced it. Once again, Kahan delivers another triumphant music moment.

“But it’s cold, and it’s cold, and it’s cold, and it’s cold, and it’s cold

And I don’t know, I’m alone, I’m alone, I’m alone, I’m alone.”

Word. “Porch Light” commences with rhythmic guitars and hums from Noah Kahan. As the record progresses, it grows fuller, with the likes of piano, bass, and drums, and even fuller. Kahan’s voice sounds beautiful, pure, and incredibly strong. His falsetto is ripe; to die for. The vocal layering ups the ante.  “Porch Light’s” melody is fast-paced, rhythmic, and tuneful. The songwriting is as captivating as always.  Kahan is beastly with the pen.  The lyrics are honest, poetic, and vivid. “And I try to drown out all the talk, the eyeballs in the parking lots,” he sings in the third verse, and concludes, “And tell people it ain’t me you want, but I guess you’re my fault.” The chorus is the crème de la crème:

“Poison spreading to my lungs

I ain’t holdin’ breath, ain’t holdin’ any faith at all

And I’ll pray for you, be in pain for you

I’ll leave the porch light on

Heartbroken, each morning when it’s me that turns it off.”

All told, “Porch Light” marks another high-flying moment from one of the most gifted songwriters of the 2020s.

Appears in 🔻:

Striking Bops from March 2026

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6. Kyle Alessandro, “Lighter”

“Lighter” » Warner Music Norway AS » 2025

Kyle Alessandro will no longer sacrifice himself for a toxic lover. He should have listened to others sooner: “And when everybody tried to tell me / I should’ve known that it was time to break free.” On the exuberant, liberating, minor-key pop record “Lighter”, the 19-year-old Norwegian 🇳🇴 singer/songwriter/producer sings, “Your reigns that kept me at your mercy / I’ll burn them to the ground /…I won’t fall again, I’ll be my own lighter.” That’s the spirit, Kyle! This terrific pop record, with various musical style cues, represents Norway in the 2025 Eurovision Song Contest. Alessandro, Adam Christopher Allskog, and Helgesen Villalobos wrote this worthy contender.

“Somewhere along the way, I lost my mind

I had to walk a hundred thousand miles

I’m not afraid to set it all on fire

I won’t fall again, I’ll be my own lighter.”

Beginning with the chorus, Alessandro sings with more oomph while the musical accompaniment ‘picks up steam,’ too.  With some gimmicky “eh-eh-eh-eh,” Alessandro further compels us as he rids the toxicity and reclaims himself.  “I feel a spark inside me / I don’t need saving,” he sings, describing himself as “my own lighter.” Beyond the verses and chorus, there is a dynamic bridge where our liberated, talented teen drops a sickening run to lead to the closing choruses. Kyle Alessandro ‘kills it’ on “Lighter”.  This young performer with a boyish yet remarkably mature voice is sure to make you beam with pride for many years to come.

Appears in 🔻:

Kyle Alessandro, Lighter: Beaming with Pride No. 28 (2025) A Laudable List of L Songs (2025)

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7. Ice Spice, “Gimmie a Light”

Y2K! » 10K Projects / Capitol Records » 2024

Grammy-nominated rapper Ice Spice is in the house! “Gimmie a Light” features a banging backdrop produced by RIOTUSA. The ninth track from her 2024 album, Y2K! samples the 2002 reggae classic, “Gimme the Light” by Sean Paul. The instrumental superbly fuses reggae and the drill cues that the rapper is renowned for.

Following the nostalgic intro by Sean Paul, Ice Spice jumps in with the infectious chorus:

“Hotboxin’ the V like, ‘Gimme a light’ (Where it’s at?)

Fat ass, so the pants fit tight (Yeah)

Take her man, I’m gettin’ him right (Yeah)

Big knock like why would I fight? (Grrah)”

Oh, snap! She gives us bold, quick-paced, and unapologetic rhymes. Her flow is definitely ‘the shit’ – not a ‘fart’! “I’m Miss Poopie like I need a diaper,” she raps in the first verse, recalling the polarizing 2024 diss track. In the second verse, she also revisits it, asserting, “And, no, I don’t got any opps (Grrah) / Like, why would I beef with a flop? (Grrah).” Her bars go beyond poop. “Pretty-ass face and some pretty-ass boobs / Pretty-ass bitch, I be shakin’ the room (Grrah) / Stank-ass bitch tryna grill me.” Ooh-wee. In the second verse, she’s a “Bad bitch, came straight outta Fordham (Grrah),” confidently concluding “Who bigger than me? (Grrah) / Who littier too? (Grrah) / That’s why I could take your boo (Damn).” Although bite-sized – merely two minutes and ‘change’ in duration – “Gimmie a Light” is a certified rap banger.

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8. Red Sebastian, “Strobe Lights”

Turn On The Lights » Red Sebastian / CNR Records NV » 2025

Ooh-wee, Sexy! Belgian musician Red Sebastian (Seppe Herreman) shines “Strobe Lights”, a song representing Belgium in the 2025 Eurovision Song Contest.  It also appears on his 2025 album, Turn On The Lights. “Strobe Lights” was written by Sebastian, Astrid Roelants, Billie Simonne Lea Bentein, Yvonne Herreman, and Willem Vanderstichele. It is easy to be hypnotized by this gem produced by Hush.

There is a lot to adore about “Strobe Lights.” It features seductive vocals by Red Sebastian. By the end, Sebastian shows the full range of his vocals – low and middle registers and a soaring falsetto.  His stellar performance brings the melodies to life in the verses, especially in the chorus (excerpted earlier).  There are many memorable lyrics. At the end of the first verse, Sebastian sings, “Alice, show me your hand / Take it to wonderland.” In the second verse, he asserts, “Flyin’ deep underground / Silence never felt so good.” Word.  In the pre-chorus, he gets lost in the high of his lover, whoever they may be.  Beyond electrifying vocals (including harmonized moments) and ear-catching lyrics, the production is top-notch. “Strobe Lights” exemplifies what dance music should sound like, with aggressive synths and an infectious groove. Given its infectiousness, it is hard to avoid moving while listening to “Strobe Lights”.

Appears in 🔻:

Red Sebastian, Strobe Lights: Beaming with Pride No. 21 (2025)

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9. Lil Nas X, “LIGHT AGAIN!”

“LIGHT AGAIN!” » Columbia » 2024

Has Lil Nas X (Montero Lamar Hill) ever held back? It doesn’t seem like it.  Once more, the Grammy-winning pop artist is ‘true to self’ on “LIGHT AGAIN!”. “LIGHT AGAIN” is a better showing than “J CHRIST” could ever hope to be, without being a home run. A shit-ton of songwriters, including Hill, are credited on “LIGHT AGAIN!”  Hill, Take A Daytrip, Thomas Bangalter, Omer Fedi, and Jasper Harris produced it.

“So, tell me what you want from me / We ain’t gettin’ no younger / So tell me what you want from me / We ain’t got too long, no.” Time is moving swiftly, per Lil Nas X, and there’s no time to waste!  In the final lyric of the chorus, he sings, “You know we only get one life for this.” In the post-chorus, guess what’s going to happen in the night? “Fuck up the night, what a hell of a life (You know).” Before the ‘choruses,’ there are more ear-catching lyrics, including “J. Cole said it’s memes or mills / But I’m the king and the jester, though,” and “Got a M&M deal, but I’m Hershey.” Woo! Beyond a high-flying,  personality-laden performance that includes rapping and singing, the musical accompaniment is colorful, led by keys, synths, and the groove. The backdrop isn’t the ‘second coming,’ but alluring. “LIGHT AGAIN!” is enjoyable and respectable without being game-changing.

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10. Billy Joel, “Turn the Lights Back On”

“Turn the Lights Back On” » Columbia » 2024

After 17 years, iconic, Grammy-winning musician Billy Joel released a new song, “Turn the Lights Back On”, which proved to be well worth the wait!  Joel penned “Turn the Lights Back On” alongside Freddy Wexler, Arthur LaFrentz Bacon, and Wayne Hector.  Also producing this awesome comeback is Wexler.  It doesn’t sound like Joel has missed a beat. From the outset, he sounds fantastic. His tone is clear; he sounds commanding, expressive, and incredibly nuanced.  He brings plenty of authenticity and personality to the lyrics, which are impressive in their own right. In the second verse, he sings, “Here, stuck on a hill / Outsiders inside the home that we built,” continuing, “The cold settles in / It’s been a long winter of indifference.” A long winter of indifference? Now that’s a lyric right there.  Beyond the fine pen of the verses, what about the centerpiece, the chorus:

“I’m late, but I’m right here now

Though I used to be romantic

I forgot somehow

Time can make you blind

But I see you now

As we’re layin’ in the darkness

Did I wait too long

To turn the lights back on?”

The melodies are tuneful throughout, while the instrumental, led initially by piano, gives Joel ample fuel for his vocal fire. As “Turn The Lights Back On” progresses, so does the music, incorporating full rhythm section and strings.  All in all, Billy Joel makes a marvelous return on the reflective song. It’s excellence speaks for itself.

Appears in 🔻:

Bops That Pop: February 2024

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11. Joji & Diplo, “Daylight”

Nectar » 88rising / 12Tone Music » 2020

Hmm, that’s not usually the sentiment when it comes to sleep sans a lover, but that’s the case with Joji on “Daylight”. Collaborating with Diplo, “Daylight” is the fourth single from his sophomore album, Nectar. Diplo produces alongside Greg Kurstin and Maximillian Jaeger.  Those big names all provide Joji with a solid backdrop to fuel his fire.

Joji is on autopilot, addressing the topic of love – breaking up/heartbreak. He claims not to care – “I’m not layin’ in bed with a fucked-up head” – but clearly, the breakup has affected him.  He even says so on the pre-chorus prior:

“And I’ve been a hero, helpless

I’m in hell

And I’ve cried up and down in these hallways

Blamed myself.”

Basically, with “Daylight,” it’s the idea that you’re fine that things have ended, yet you still experience pain or at least a bad memory. He makes it clear how different he is from his ex, who’s “Hiding on the FM radio / I sing along just to sing my thoughts at someone.”

Appears in 🔻:

Awesome Songs: August 2020 Light: 5ive Songs No. 75 (2021)

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12. Grant Brett, “Lights Down Low”

“Lights Down Low” » Dark Dance » 2024

Those lyrics speak for themselves. It’s about to go down 😈! “Lights Down Low” is a mere two minutes long. That is enough – a sufficient amount of time – for Grant Brett (Grant Breitmeier) to titillate.  The Portland-based pop artist is bold, fearless, and unapologetic. Sex positivity – you love to see it! “Lights Down Low” features a naughty, sensual-sounding instrumental set in a minor key. The production is sleek but in a chill way – cool energy. Enigmatic from the jump, it’s clear that the thoughts originate from ‘a different head’ – the love below.  Brett confirms this early: “See me on the floor / You know what’s in store / So, what you waiting for?” Oh, snap! Hmm, a compromising position… Anyways, he adds, “Touch me more / These other boys are such a bore / I’m your attention whore.” Word.  Brett ups the ante. The melody grows rhythmically and lustier, including the unforgettable lyric, “I can tell that you like how I’m shaking my ass.” Peachy 🍑 😮‍💨 🤤! What more does Grant give us, or rather, his love interest? A striptease – a private show 😈.  Is it just me, or is it getting hot 🥵 in here? Ultimately, “Lights Down Low” is short but utterly sweet – in the naughtiest way possible.  It’s another sexy addition to the LGBTQ+ 🏳️‍🌈 catalog.

Appears in 🔻:

Grant Brett, Lights Down Low: Midnight Heat No. 47 (2024) 13 More Thrilling Songs Where It’s Going DOWN ⬇️ (2025)

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13. Col3trane, “Lights Out”

Lush Life » Trane of Thought / United Masters » 2022

Fo’ sho’! And you know what it is? S Meets E, and then they X 😈! “Lights Out” appears as the fifth track on Lush Life, the 2022 album by London R&B artist Col3trane (Cole Basta). He impresses with both his voice and personality. The combination of both makes him a compelling artist. Focusing on “Lights Out,” Basta keeps things brief, running under two minutes and 20 seconds.  Even so, it’s enough for that Col3trane magic (and heat 🥵) to shine! Basta penned this pleasant joint alongside Sunny Kale, Andre Tejuoso, Alex Noorani, and Aidan Brody. Kale, Noorani, and Alex Naim produce, giving Basta a sweet backdrop to work with.

On “Lights Out,” Col3trane speaks about her bougie, sophisticated tastes, yet because she’s so fine and sexy, he has every intention to spoil her.  In the first verse, he asserts, “I’m at it from the back and she lyin’ on her front / She look so good, she might get what she want.” Oh, snap! In the second verse, regarding their relationship, he states, “June, July, and August, you know we gon’ be entangled,” adding, “And you got me, love drunk (Yeah) / And you got me tongue-tied (Yeah).” This man is enamored something fierce! In the pre-chorus, he speaks about protecting her and prefaces the hot sex that’s going down! “Lights out (Yeah) / Draw the curtains (Yeah) / Deep stroke (Yeah) / Reload it (Yeah).” Ooh-wee! It’s incredibly easy to be hot and bothered by “Lights Out” by Col3trane.  If you need a great sex song, Col3trane delivers!

Appears in 🔻:

Col3trane, Lights Out: Midnight Heat No. 4 (2023)

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14. Angrybaby, “LIGHTS DOWN LOW”

“LIGHTS DOWN LOW” » TH3RD BRAIN » 2024

What better way to set the tone than to turn those “LIGHTS DOWN LOW”? That’s what Asian American electronic producer Angrybaby (Samuel Charles Agate) did on his first single of 2024.  Clocking in at a respectable three-and-a-quarter minutes, Agate serves up picturesque, colorful production cues. The groove is groovin’ by all means. It makes you want to dance or at a minimum, move your body.  Of course, Angrybaby gets a sizable assist courtesy of Sly Jr.  Jr. delivers smooth vocals with a warm and inviting tone. Characteristic of many dance songs, there is plenty of time on “LIGHTS DOWN LOW” to allow the instrumental to breathe and have its moment. Angrybaby doesn’t throw everything at us at once.  There’s thoughtful nuance, buildup, and fabulous pacing. The instrumental, as well as Sly Jr.’s vocals, is hypnotic.  The music is dynamic but also thrives as ‘background music,’ if you catch my drift. “LIGHTS DOWN LOW” is an enjoyable, well-rounded dance/electronic record, NO CAP!

Appears in 🔻:

13 More Thrilling Songs Where It’s Going DOWN ⬇️ (2025)

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15. Whitney Houston, “You Light Up My Life”

Just Whitney » Arista » 2002

The late, great Whitney Houston was one of the best at making hits out of songs originally recorded by others.  In 2002, Houston found herself taking the old –“You Light Up My Life”, the 1977 Grammy-winning hit by Debby Boone – and making it new and her own.  The Houston rendition of  “You Light Up My Life” appears as the ninth and penultimate track on her platinum-certified LP, Just Whitney. Ballads are where Whitney was at her best, and “You Light Up My Life” is no different.  It begins with that stellar voice – the signature tone – which remained intact at this point. Houston provides a balanced performance, not showing all her cards early on in the first verse.  Even so, Houston treats each note of the melody with incredible care and expression. Of course, by the chorus, she shows off the commanding nature and power of her instrument.  Again, each note of the melody sounds elite, refined, and truly remarkable. Of course, some of the most impressive moments of Houston’s career are the melisma, riffs, and runs, which she executed like no other.  These ad-libs and playful moments that extend beyond the melody show up and show out towards the close of this liberal, one-of-a-kind take that easily distinguishes itself from the original.  The arrangement and production (Rickey Minor and Babyface) of Whitney’s take on “You Light Up My Life” required tweaks for the sake of contrast.  The refined adult contemporary R&B sounds bode well. Houston ‘makes it do what it do, baby’ on a stunning cover that sounds original and refreshing.

Appears in 🔻:

Whitney Houston, You Light Up My Life: Covers No. 30 (2023) Debby Boone vs. Whitney Houston: Head 2 Head No. 30 (2023) 11 Marvelous Songs Filled with Life (2024)

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16. Tom Hulce & Tony Jay, “Heaven’s Light / Hellfire”

The Hunchback of Notre Dame (Original Soundtrack) » Disney » 1996

Disney animated films aren’t absolved from controversy. In 🎦 The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996), the themes are considered, at times, inappropriate for children. This is by far the most mature-rated G Disney movie of the Renaissance era (should’ve been rated PG). One of the most accomplished and controversial parts of The Hunchback of Notre Dame is the song, “Heaven’s Light / Hellfire”, written by Alan Menken and Steven Schwartz.  Because of the religious component, inspiration, and sometimes source material, comes from elements of classical liturgical music.  This is a song of contrasts, finding Quasimodo (Tom Hulce) performing the more hopeful, major-keyed “Heaven’s Light” and Judge Claude Frollo (Tony Jay) performing the darker, more enigmatic, and twisted “Hellfire.”  

Here, we focus on the light of Quasimodo’s “Heaven’s light.” Quasimodo’s desire for love – “heaven’s light” – tugs at the heartstrings. One thing that children and adults alike should take from it is that they don’t deserve to be bullied, persecuted, or have to settle for less just because they’re different in some regard. “I knew I’d never know / That warm and loving glow,” he sings, and continues, “Though I might wish with all my might / No face as hideous as my face / Was ever meant for heaven’s light.” Even though he’s experienced depression and had a difficult life, Quasimodo shows hope:

“I dare to dream that she

Might even care for me

And as I ring these bells tonight

My cold dark tower seems so bright

I swear it must be heaven’s light.”

Appears in 🔻:

11 Gloriously, Infernal HELL Songs (2022) Tom Hulce & Tony Jay, Heaven’s Light / Hellfire: Controversial Tunes No. 16 (2022) 13 Utterly Celestial Heaven Gems (2022)

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17. Vicki Lawrence, “The Night the Lights Went Out in Georgia”

The Night the Lights Went out in Georgia » GME LLC » 1973

Wow 😮! It gets much worse on “The Night the Lights Went out in Georgia”, the opening track from The Night the Lights Went out in Georgia, the 1973 debut album by Vicki Lawrence.  Lawrence is best known for her acting and comedy, particularly on The Carol Burnett Show and Mama’s Family.  That said, Lawrence reached the Billboard Hot 100 thrice. “The Night the Lights Went out in Georgia” was her sole top-40 hit.  How well did that top-40 hit perform? It reached no. 1! Woo-hoo!

“That’s the night that the lights went out in Georgia,

That’s the night that they hung an innocent man, uh-huh

Well, don’t trust your soul to no backwoods, southern lawyer

Cause the judge in the town’s got bloodstains on his hands.”

A murder ballad, “The Night the Lights Went out in Georgia” was written by Grammy winner Bobby Russell (1940 – 1992), who was her husband for a brief time.  Originally, the song, which Russell was reluctant about himself, was offered to Cher.  Her husband at the time, Sonny Bono, turned down the song because he believed it would upset her southern fans.  Lawrence would record this dark country tune with producer Snuff Garrett and make it a hit.  So, why exactly did the lights go out in Georgia? Well, an innocent man – the man who is cheated on, coincidently – was hung, while the guilty party, his sister (whom Vicki portrays in the song), walks free.  Ain’t that some shit? It’s a case of the wrong place at the wrong time and a suspect trial, etc.

“Well, they hung my brother before I could say

The tracks he saw while on his way

To Andy’s house and back that night were mine

And his cheating wife had never left town

And that one’s body that’ll never be found

See, little sister don’t miss when she aims her gun.”

“The Night the Lights Went out in Georgia” is the perfect example that it takes only one great song to carve out a place in music history.  Vicki Lawrence outdid herself on this one.

Appears in 🔻:

Vicki Lawrence, The Night the Lights Went out in Georgia: 1 Hit WONDERful No. 11 (2023) 13 Songs Where GEORGIA is On the Mind (2024) 15 Chilling Murder Ballads (2024)

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18. Parliament, “Flash Light”

Funkentelechy Vs. The Placebo Syndrome » UMG Recordings Inc. » 1977

No worries! Innovative funk band Parliament recorded an infectious gem in “Flash Light”, where there is NO way the beat won’t be found, or dancing won’t happen. “Flash Light” is the sixth and final track from the funk band’s platinum-certified 1977 album, Funkentelechy Vs. The Placebo Syndrome. It shouldn’t come as a surprise that Funkentelechy Vs. The Placebo Syndrome is a conceptual album given its unique, unorthodox title. The concept is firmly planted on the LP’s ace-in-the-hole, penned by George Clinton (b. 1941), Bernie Worrell (1944 – 2016), and Bootsy Collins (William Earl Collins, b. 1951). Clinton produced “Flash Light.” A success on the pop charts, “Flash Light” peaked at number 16 on the Billboard Hot 100.  Notably, it earned the number one spot on the R&B charts.  It was certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America, a big deal back in the day.

“Flash Light” commences with a colorful, striking introduction that sets the tone. The sound palette is a huge reason why “Flash Light” slaps.  The groove is electrifying, the bass line is active, while the synths are playful, otherworldly, and unique. The star of the show is the synthesizer bass, performed by Worrell on a Minimoog Model D. Notably, there are tutorials for recreating the iconic Moog bass synth line, one of the premier bass lines of all time. 

Beyond the striking musical accompaniment, the vocals are intriguing, too. There is ample attitude and playfulness. Many lyrics, beyond the ones excerpted earlier, make “Flash Light” memorable.  Prime examples include the thought-provoking “Everybody’s got a little light under the sun,” as well as the fun and tuneful “Da da da dee da da da da da da da”.  Of course, being the catalyst of dance and funk is crucial to the concept. “Most of all he needs the funk / (Shine it),” Clinton sings, and adds, “Help him find the funk (Ha, funk it).” All told, “Flash Light” is not only one of Parliament’s biggest and most important hits, but also one of the best funk songs of all time.  George Clinton and company truly put their foot into this timeless classic.

Appears in 🔻:

Parliament, Flash Light: Throwback Vibez No. 179 (2025)

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19. Manfred Mann’s Earth Band, “Blinded By The Light”

The Roaring Silence » East Central One Limited » 1976

Classic English rock band Manfred Mann’s Earth Band is renowned for one particular record: “Blinded By The Light.” Something that should be noted about “Blinded By The Light” is it’s a Bruce Springsteen cover. That said, Manfred Mann and company hold the rare distinction of transforming and usurping the original! “Blinded By The Light” appears in their 1976 album, The Roaring Silence.

“And go-kart Mozart was checkin’ out the weather chart

To see if it was safe outside

And little Early-Pearly came by in his curly-wurly

And asked me if I needed a ride

Asked me if I needed a ride!”

Okay! On The Roaring Silence, there are two versions of “Blinded By The Light.” The LP commences with the seven-minute-plus version. It concludes with a more accessible, sub-four-minute single edit.  Besides the elite songwriting of Mr. Springsteen (“Some brimstone, baritone, anticyclone, rolling stone preacher from the east…”), what else makes “Blinded By The Light” a surefire vibe? How about colorful production and a palette of sounds including backing vocals, guitars, keys, a fat bass line, etc.? Throughout the course of the epic seven-minute original, the listener is blessed by superb lead vocals, an epic groove, which arrives at the beginning, and fantastic guitar riffs and soloing. If this record blinds you, it blinds you with its greatness!

Appears in 🔻:

Manfred Mann’s Earth Band, Blinded By The Light: Throwback Vibez No. 79 (2022) 15 Blind Songs That Totally Stand Out (2022) 15 Must-Hear, Throwback Vibez, Vol. 5 (2022)

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20. King Harvest, “Dancing in the Moonlight”

Dancing in the Moonlight » Darbo Music LLC » 1973

“Dancing in the Moonlight” is the 10^th and final track from the 1973 album by King Harvest, Dancing in the Moonlight. “Dancing in the Moonlight” was released as a single in 1972, preceding the album.  Written by keyboardist and songwriter Sherman Kelly, it was originally recorded by Boffalongo. In his biography, Kelly shares the dark origin of the beloved song, stating, “I wrote ‘Dancin’ In The Moonlight’ in which I envisioned an alternate reality, the dream of a peaceful and joyful celebration of life.

“Dancing in the Moonlight” peaked at number 13 on the Billboard Hot 100 – the sole top 40 hit by King Harvest. Dave Robinson brings the lyrics and melodies to life beautifully. “Everybody here is out of sight / They don’t bark, and they don’t bite,” he sings in the second verse, adding, “They keep things loose, they keep things light / Everybody was dancing in the moonlight.” Robinson is commanding in his performance without ever over-singing.  Besides his noteworthy vocals and strong background vocals, the instrumental is sweet. It’s the warm keys, prominent bass line, guitar riffs, and drum groove.  Unsurprisingly, the section to beat on this serene and sunny track is the chorus.

“Everybody’s dancing in the moonlight

Everybody’s feeling warm and bright

It’s such a fine and natural sight

Everybody’s dancing in the moonlight.”

“Dancing in the Moonlight” is timeless and doesn’t require extensive analysis.

Appears in 🔻:

King Harvest, Dancing in the Moonlight: 1 Hit WONDERful 22 (2024) 13 More Epic Songs Fueled by DANCE (2024) King Harvest vs. Toploader: Face Off No. 11 (2026)

 

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20 Gleaming Light Songs (2026) [📷: Brent Faulkner / The Musical Hype; 10K Projects, 12Tone Music, 88rising, Arista, Atlantic Records UK, Capitol Records, Columbia, CNR Records NV, Darbo Music LLC, Dark Dance, Darkroom Records, Disney, East Central One Limited, Experts Only, GME LLC, Lana Del Rey, Mercury Records, Red Sebastian, SAWGOD Records, TH3RD BRAIN, Trane of Thought, UMG Recordings Inc., United Masters, Universal Music Operations Limited, Warner Music Norway AS, Warner Music UK Limited; Canva AI; Gordon Johnson from Pixabay]

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