Introduction
The song you’re referring to is likely “In Your Eyes,” made famous by Peter Gabriel, not Phil Collins. While both artists are prominent figures in the music world and have collaborated, “In Your Eyes” is definitively a Peter Gabriel song. Therefore, a history of Phil Collins’s “It’s In Your Eyes” doesn’t exist.
However, we can discuss the history and context of Peter Gabriel’s “In Your Eyes,” which is a widely recognized and beloved song.
“In Your Eyes” was released in 1986 on Peter Gabriel’s fifth solo album, So. The album was a commercial and critical success, propelling Gabriel to mainstream popularity. “In Your Eyes” was not initially released as a single in the UK or US, but it gained significant recognition through its inclusion in the 1989 Cameron Crowe film Say Anything…. The iconic scene featuring John Cusack holding a boombox playing the song outside Ione Skye’s window cemented its place in popular culture.
The song’s genesis involved Gabriel’s exploration of various musical influences, including world music. The distinctive bassline is played by Tony Levin, and the song also features backing vocals from Youssou N’Dour, a Senegalese singer and percussionist. This collaboration brought a global flavor to the track, reflecting Gabriel’s interest in cross-cultural musical exchanges.
Lyrically, “In Your Eyes” explores themes of love, connection, and vulnerability. The lyrics express a deep emotional connection with another person, finding solace and understanding in their gaze. The song’s emotional resonance, combined with its memorable melody and production, has made it a timeless classic. Its appearance in Say Anything… further amplified its popularity and solidified its status as a quintessential love song of the 1980s.