Originally written by Bruce Springsteen and later refined by Patti Smith, Because the Night is a song that has transcended generations. While Smith’s 1978 version became a defining hit, the song found new life in 1993 when 10,000 Maniacs recorded a live acoustic rendition for their MTV Unplugged album. This version became the band’s highest-charting single in the U.S., reaching No. 11 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Springsteen initially wrote Because the Night during the recording sessions for Darkness on the Edge of Town but ultimately passed it to Smith, who infused it with her own poetic lyrics. The song became one of her biggest hits, reaching No. 13 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Fast forward to the early 90s, Natalie Merchant and 10,000 Maniacs reimagined the song with a stripped-down, acoustic arrangement. Their version, recorded live, brought a fresh emotional depth to the track, making it a standout moment in their MTV Unplugged performance.
Unlike the raw energy of Smith’s version, 10,000 Maniacs’ rendition is softer, more introspective, and deeply melodic. Merchant’s haunting vocals, paired with the band’s acoustic instrumentation, gave the song a new identity—one that resonated with a different audience while maintaining its passionate core.
The success of their cover not only introduced the song to a new generation but also cemented Because the Night as a timeless rock anthem. It remains one of the most celebrated covers in modern rock history.