Eyes on Me (Faye Wong song)

Eyes on Me is a song performed by Faye Wong, released in 1999. It served as the theme song for the PlayStation video game Final Fantasy VIII.

Overview: The song is a ballad composed by Nobuo Uematsu with lyrics by Kako Someya. It was produced by Shirō Hamaguchi and marks a significant departure for the Final Fantasy series, which had previously relied on instrumental themes. "Eyes on Me" was recorded in English, furthering its accessibility to a global audience. The song's success extended beyond the video game soundtrack, becoming a popular single in Japan and other regions.

Musical Style and Composition: The song is characterized by its melancholic melody and Wong's emotive vocals. The orchestration features a blend of acoustic instruments, including piano, strings, and woodwinds, creating a sentimental and romantic atmosphere. The arrangement is generally considered simple, focusing on Wong's voice and the underlying melody.

Release and Reception: "Eyes on Me" was released as a single in Japan on February 24, 1999. It achieved significant commercial success, reaching the top ten on the Oricon charts and becoming one of the best-selling video game theme songs of all time. It also gained popularity in other Asian countries and gained international recognition due to its inclusion in a major video game. Critics generally praised Wong's performance and the song's overall quality.

Impact and Legacy: "Eyes on Me" is credited with popularizing the use of vocal themes in video games, particularly in the Final Fantasy series. Its success paved the way for future vocal theme songs in later installments. The song remains a beloved piece of music among fans of the Final Fantasy VIII and Faye Wong's music, and is frequently performed at concerts and events related to the game. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its emotional resonance and the unique combination of Wong's vocals and Uematsu's composition.