Belinda Carlisle – Heaven Is a Place on Earth
Few songs capture the optimism and grandeur of 1980s pop like Belinda Carlisle’s “Heaven Is a Place on Earth.” Released at the height of the decade, the track became an international sensation, cementing Carlisle’s solo career after her time with The Go-Go’s. With its soaring chorus and uplifting message, the song remains one of the most recognizable pop anthems of the era.
Song Overview
“Heaven Is a Place on Earth” was released in September 1987 as the lead single from Carlisle’s second solo album, Heaven on Earth (1987). The song’s combination of heartfelt lyrics and arena-ready production turned it into a radio staple, appealing to both pop audiences and rock listeners. Its message of love as a transformative, almost spiritual force resonated strongly in the late 80s cultural landscape.
Songwriting and Production
The song was written by Ellen Shipley and Rick Nowels, both of whom were central figures in crafting Carlisle’s solo sound. Nowels also produced the track, bringing in a lush, layered arrangement with driving drums, atmospheric keyboards, and Carlisle’s passionate vocals front and center. The collaboration gave Carlisle a signature sound that would carry through much of her solo career, balancing pop brightness with rock intensity.
Charts
“Heaven Is a Place on Earth” became a worldwide hit. In the United States, it reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in December 1987, marking Carlisle’s first and only U.S. chart-topper. It also topped the UK Singles Chart in January 1988 and reached the top 10 in numerous countries, including Canada, Ireland, Norway, and Sweden. Its commercial success solidified Carlisle as one of the defining voices of late-80s pop.
Music Video
The music video, directed by actress and filmmaker Diane Keaton, added a striking visual layer to the song’s message. Featuring a nighttime setting with children holding glowing orbs of light, the video created a dreamlike atmosphere that mirrored the song’s themes of love and transcendence. Carlisle’s performance, intercut with symbolic imagery, helped the song stand out on MTV and contributed significantly to its global impact.
More than 100 million songs in CD quality. 7 million in better-than-CD sound.
🎧 Start your free trial with Amazon Music Unlimited now!
Belinda Carlisle – Leave a Light On
Belinda Carlisle’s “Leave a Light On” was released in September 1989 and stands as one of her signature hits. The song is marked by her emotional vocals and a catchy melody, with the added highlight of George Harrison contributing slide guitar. Upon its release, it reached No. 4 on the UK Singles Chart and became an international success.
