Jackie Wilson Said (I'm in Heaven When You Smile)

Dexys Midnight Runners

About Jackie Wilson Said (I'm in Heaven When You Smile)

"Jackie Wilson Said (I'm in Heaven When You Smile)" is a song written and performed by Van Morrison and featured as the opening track on his sixth studio album, Saint Dominic's Preview. It was released by Warner Bros. in July 1972 as the first of three singles from the album and charted at number sixty-one on the US Billboard Hot 100. Both the music and lyrics are inspired by rhythm and blues singer Jackie Wilson and his song "Reet Petite", which is directly quoted in the song. "Jackie Wilson Said" was covered by Dexys Midnight Runners on their album Too-Rye-Ay and reached number five on the UK Singles Chart when released in 1982. It has also been covered by several other artists. 


Year:
1995
3:06
64 
#1

 The easy, fast & fun way to learn how to sing: 30DaySinger.com

Jackie Wilson said it was 'Reet Petite' 
I kind of love you 
Yes it knocks me off my feet 
Let it all come down 
Oh let it all come down 
And you know I'm so wired up 
I don't need any more tea in my cup 
Let it all come down 
Oh let it all come down 
Now watch this 

Toodle langa langa toodle langa fang 
Toodle langa langa toodle langa fang 
I'm in heaven 
I'm in heaven 
I'm in heaven when you smile 
And when you walk across the street 
It makes my heart go boom boom boom

Let it all come down 
And every time I stop to think about it 
Well little child you simply make my day 
Let it all come down 
Oh let it all come down 

Toodle langa langa Toodle langa fang 
Toodle langa langa Toodle langa fang 
I'm in heaven 
I'm in heaven 
I'm in heaven when you smile

 The easy, fast & fun way to learn how to sing: 30DaySinger.com


Dexys Midnight Runners

Dexys Midnight Runners (currently called Dexys) are an English pop group with soul influences, who achieved their major success in the early to mid 1980s. They are best known for their songs "Come On Eileen" and "Geno", both of which went No. 1 on the UK Singles Chart. more »

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Written by: VAN MORRISON

Lyrics © Warner Chappell Music, Inc.

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


19 facts about this song

Release and Reception
"Jackie Wilson Said (I'm in Heaven When You Smile)" was originally written and recorded by Northern Irish singer-songwriter Van Morrison, and featured on his 1972 album, "Saint Dominic's Preview". - The song was later covered by the English pop/rock band, Dexys Midnight Runners; their version reached number 5 in the UK Singles Chart in 1982.
Inspiration
The song is a tribute to the American R&B and soul singer Jackie Wilson, one of Van Morrison's major influences.
Song Structure
Morrison's original version is characterized by an upbeat, jazzy pop sound, with prominent saxophone, bass, and drums.
Unique Performance
On a famous Top of the Pops performance, Dexys Midnight Runners played "Jackie Wilson Said" in front of a picture of darts player Jocky Wilson, due to a misunderstanding by the show's producers.
Media Usage
The Dexys Midnight Runners' version of the song was used in the final scene and closing credits of the 2017 film, "The Death of Stalin".
Signature Dexys Style
The Dexys Midnight Runners' cover combines the band's distinctive soul-influenced sound with Kevin Rowland's unique singing style, which is characterized by his strong Midlands accent.
Critical Reception
Both Van Morrison's original and Dexys Midnight Runners' version have received acclaim, with many critics praising their buoyant melodies and infectious energy.
Live Performances
Despite its positive reception, "Jackie Wilson Said" is not frequently performed live by either Morrison or Dexys Midnight Runners, making it a treat for fans when it is included in a setlist.
Influence
The song has inspired numerous other covers and homages, demonstrating its enduring appeal and resonance in the music world.
Song Creation
"Jackie Wilson Said (I'm in Heaven When You Smile)" was originally written and performed by the iconic musician Van Morrison.
Inspiration
The song is a tribute to American soul singer Jackie Wilson, known for his influential and powerful vocal abilities.
Release Date
Morrison's original version of the song was released in 1972, on his album "Saint Dominic's Preview".
Cover Version
The song was covered and made popular by the British band Dexys Midnight Runners in 1982 as part of their album “Too-Rye-Ay”.
Chart Performance
Dexys Midnight Runners’ cover became a top five hit on the UK Singles Chart in 1982. Van Morrison's original did not chart.
Iconic Performances
The song is probably best known for a performance on Top of the Pops by Dexys Midnight Runners, where, famously, instead of a photo of Jackie Wilson during their performance, the show played footage of darts player Jocky Wilson.
Distinctive Sound
Van Morrison's version of the song is notably jazzy and upbeat, showcasing Morrison's distinctive soulful voice and rhythm and blues roots.
Genres
The song transcended genres, with Morrison's version embodying elements of blue-eyed soul and blues, whereas Dexys Midnight Runners' rendition is often categorized as new wave or pop.
Song Reception
Despite its initially low charting, "Jackie Wilson Said (I'm in Heaven When You Smile)" is generally considered a fan favorite and is regularly played at Morrison's concerts.
Legacy
The success and enduring popularity of "Jackie Wilson Said (I'm in Heaven When You Smile)" have helped solidify the song as a major part of both Van Morrison's and Dexys Midnight Runners' musical legacies.

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