“World in My Eyes” is a sultry and synth-driven track by Depeche Mode, released in September 1990 as the fourth and final single from their seventh studio album, Violator. Written by Martin Gore and produced by the band alongside Flood, the song captures Depeche Mode’s signature blend of dark sensuality, introspection, and electronic innovation.
Lyrically, “World in My Eyes” explores themes of intimacy, perception, and shared experiences. The narrator invites their partner to see the world through their perspective, promising a journey of passion and discovery. Musically, the song features a minimalist yet richly textured arrangement, driven by pulsating synthesizers, a steady electronic beat, and atmospheric layers. Dave Gahan’s deep, commanding vocal performance adds to the song’s hypnotic allure, while the production balances clean, precise electronics with a moody, organic feel.
“World in My Eyes” was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 in several European countries, including Germany and Spain. In the United States, it paked at No. 3 on Billboard Dance Singles Sales chart. It became a staple of Depeche Mode’s live performances, often serving as a fan-favorite moment during their concerts.
As the opening track on Violator, “World in My Eyes” sets the tone for an album widely regarded as one of Depeche Mode’s masterpieces. Its combination of sensual lyrics, sleek production, and emotional depth makes it a quintessential example of the band’s artistry, embodying their ability to merge the personal with the universal in a distinctly electronic framework.