“Heartlight” is a pop ballad recorded by legendary singer-songwriter Neil Diamond. It was released in 1982 as the theme song for the Steven Spielberg film E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial.

The song has a lush, orchestral sound, with sweeping strings, piano, and Diamond’s emotive, dynamic vocals at the forefront. Lyrically, “Heartlight” uses the metaphor of a “heartlight” to represent the enduring, transcendent power of love.

Lines like “When you need it the most, there it goes / Dancing, a beam from a star” convey a sense of wonder and romanticism. The lyrics tap into the film’s themes of connection, hope, and the magic of human relationships.

Musically, “Heartlight” builds to a soaring, anthemic chorus that showcases Diamond’s talent for crafting memorable, sing-along melodies. The production values are polished and cinematic, matching the scale and emotion of the E.T. story.

The song was a major commercial success, reaching the top 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It became one of Diamond’s signature songs of the 1980s and is considered a highlight of his discography.

“Heartlight” also received widespread critical acclaim, with reviewers praising its ability to evoke the same sense of wonder and sentimentality as the beloved Spielberg film. It has endured as a beloved, feel-good pop classic.

Overall, “Heartlight” stands as an exemplary Neil Diamond ballad – a lush, melodic, and deeply emotional song that taps into universal themes of love and human connection. It remains a fan favorite and a beloved part of Diamond’s extensive catalog of pop/rock hits.