Todd Rundgren – I Saw The Light

About the song

“I Saw the Light,” penned and performed by the versatile American musician Todd Rundgren, stands as a defining track from his acclaimed 1972 album *Something/Anything?* This song, strategically positioned as the album’s opening number, encapsulates Rundgren’s intention to create a standout hit, drawing inspiration from Motown’s tradition of front-loading albums with their most promising tracks.

Written in a remarkably short span of 20 minutes, Rundgren attributed his rapid songwriting process to the influence of stimulants like Ritalin. Reflecting on this, he remarked, “It caused me to crank out songs at an incredible pace. You can see why, too, the rhymes are just moon/June/spoon kind of stuff.” This anecdote sheds light on the spontaneous and energetic nature that characterizes “I Saw the Light.”

In terms of instrumentation and vocals, the song is a testament to Rundgren’s multifaceted musical abilities. He single-handedly took charge of all instruments and vocals, showcasing his prowess as both a singer and a proficient instrumentalist. This level of creative control allowed Rundgren to infuse the track with his unique style and vision, creating a cohesive yet diverse musical experience.

Thematically, “I Saw the Light” delves into personal revelation and emotional clarity, narrated through Rundgren’s distinctive vocal delivery and melodic sensibility. Its lyrical simplicity is complemented by a rich musical arrangement, blending elements of rock, pop, and soul—an eclectic mix that typifies Rundgren’s experimental approach to music.

The song’s enduring popularity can be attributed not only to its catchy hooks and memorable lyrics but also to its role in defining Todd Rundgren’s artistic identity. As a pioneering figure in the music industry, Rundgren’s ability to craft songs that resonate both lyrically and melodically has left an indelible mark on listeners and fellow musicians alike.

“I Saw the Light” remains a quintessential example of Todd Rundgren’s musical genius, encapsulating a moment in time when artistry and innovation converged to produce a timeless classic. Its impact continues to resonate, cementing its place in the pantheon of influential rock and pop compositions.

Video

Lyrics

It was late last night
I was feeling something wasn’t right
There was not another soul in sight
Only you, only you

So we walked along
Though I knew that there was something wrong
And a feeling hit me, oh so strong
About you

Then you gazed up at me
And the answer was plain to see
‘Cause I saw the light
In your eyes, in your eyes

Though we had our fling
I just never would suspect a thing
Till that little bell began to ring
In my head, in my head

But I tried to run
Though I knew it wouldn’t help me none
‘Cause I couldn’t ever love no one
Or so I said

‘Cause my feelings for you
Were just something I never knew
Till I saw the light
In your eyes, in your eyes

But I love you best
It’s not something that I say in jest
‘Cause you’re different, girl, from all the rest
In my eyes

And I ran out before
But I won’t do it anymore
Can’t you see the light in my eyes
In my eyes
In my eyes
In my eyes