About The Song
Ah, The Supremes. Remember them? Those three powerhouse voices, with their dazzling choreography and infectious melodies, dominated the airwaves in the 1960s. Today, we’re going to delve into one of their earlier gems, a song that captures the blossoming of young love, that sweet spark that ignites when you first fall for someone. This song is called When The Lovelight Starts Shining Through His Eyes.
Released in 1963, When The Lovelight Starts Shining Through His Eyes marked a turning point for The Supremes. It was their first single written and produced by the legendary songwriting trio Holland-Dozier-Holland, who would go on to create countless hits for the group. But more importantly, this song showcased a new side of The Supremes – a vulnerability and innocence that perfectly captured the excitement of young love.
Imagine yourself back to a simpler time. Perhaps you were a teenager in the early 1960s, a time of social change and youthful optimism. The world seemed full of possibilities, and your heart was full of dreams. That’s the feeling When The Lovelight Starts Shining Through His Eyes evokes.
The song opens with a playful declaration: “Suddenly I know / Just what love can do.” The narrator, a young woman, is experiencing a dawning realization. She’s noticed a shift in the way a boy looks at her, a new warmth in his eyes. This subtle change is enough to set her heart aflutter.
The Supremes’ signature harmonies beautifully convey the giddiness and anticipation of new love. The lyrics paint a picture of stolen glances, shy smiles, and the nervous excitement of wondering if these feelings are mutual. Lines like “My heart starts to race / Whenever he comes near” evoke that relatable experience of butterflies in your stomach and a quickening pulse.
But beyond the innocent flirtation, there’s a hint of maturity in the song. The narrator recognizes the power of love’s transformation. She sings, “He used to seem like just another face / Now the whole world seems a different place.” Love, for her, is not just about butterflies – it’s about seeing the world anew, through the lens of affection and newfound joy.
When The Lovelight Starts Shining Through His Eyes is a classic coming-of-age story set to music.** It captures the innocent joy of young love, the thrill of discovery, and the transformative power of connection. The Supremes’ playful vocals and timeless melody make this song an enduring favorite, reminding us of those first flutters of love that stay with you long after the years have passed.