About the song
“The Night Has a Thousand Eyes,” a captivating composition by Benjamin Weisman, Dorothy Wayne, and Marilyn Garrett, found its definitive interpretation through Bobby Vee’s rendition in 1962, marking a significant moment in the realm of pop music. Recorded at United Recorders in Hollywood, California, with arrangement by Ernie Freeman and production by Snuff Garrett, Vee’s version of the song stands as a testament to his vocal prowess and the era’s penchant for melodic storytelling.
Released as a single later in 1962, “The Night Has a Thousand Eyes” swiftly ascended the charts, earning acclaim both in the United States and abroad. It spent 14 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at an impressive number 3 position. Simultaneously, the song reached number 2 on Billboard’s Middle-Road Singles chart, showcasing its broad appeal across different musical genres. In a surprising crossover, it even landed at number 8 on Billboard’s Hot R&B Singles chart, underscoring its universal appeal.
Internationally, the song made waves on the UK’s Record Retailer chart, where it held steady for 12 weeks and peaked at number 3 on March 6, 1963. Its success abroad mirrored its acclaim at home, solidifying Bobby Vee’s reputation as a versatile artist capable of delivering emotive performances that resonated with diverse audiences.
“The Night Has a Thousand Eyes” was not just a hit single but also a centerpiece of Bobby Vee’s 1963 album of the same name, released under Liberty Records. This album further showcased Vee’s interpretive skills and his ability to infuse songs with a unique blend of sincerity and charm.
Over the years, “The Night Has a Thousand Eyes” has inspired numerous cover versions, attesting to its enduring popularity and timeless appeal. Each interpretation highlights the song’s ability to evoke a sense of mystery and romance, encapsulated within its evocative lyrics and haunting melody.
Bobby Vee’s Scopitone promotional video for the song added visual depth to its narrative, enhancing its allure and cementing its status as a classic of the early 1960s pop music landscape. Through its melodic richness and Bobby Vee’s compelling vocal delivery, “The Night Has a Thousand Eyes” remains a beloved staple on oldies playlists and a poignant reminder of an era defined by its musical elegance and emotional resonance.
Video
Lyrics
… They say that you’re a runaround lover
Though you say it isn’t so
But if you put me down for another
I’ll know, believe me, I’ll know
… ‘Cause the night has a thousand eyes
And a thousand eyes can’t help but see if you are true to me
So remember when you tell those little white lies
That the night has a thousand eyes
… You say that you’re at home when you phone me
And how much you really care
Though you keep telling me that you’re lonely
I’ll know if someone is there
… ‘Cause the night has a thousand eyes
And a thousand eyes can’t help but see if you are true to me
So remember when you tell those little white lies
That the night has a thousand eyes
… One of these days you’re gonna be sorry
‘Cause your game I’m gonna play
And you’ll find out without really tryin’
Each time that my kisses stray
… ‘Cause the night has a thousand eyes
And a thousand eyes will see me too
And no matter what I do
I could never disguise all my little white lies
‘Cause the night has a thousand eyes
… So remember when you tell those little white lies
As the night has a thousand eyes