(ThyBlackMan.com) There’s a certain mood only Johnny Mathis can create. You hear that first note—soft, romantic, almost whispered—and suddenly the world slows down. Whether it’s playing through a vintage hi-fi system or quietly looping through your earbuds, his music has a way of finding you when you need it most. For me, Johnny’s voice has always felt like a warm light in the corner of a room—subtle, but impossible to ignore.
His songs aren’t just about love—they sound like love. That flutter in your chest, the late-night ache, the quiet hope you hold for someone who doesn’t even know it yet. Mathis was the master of mood before playlists were even a thing. So I put together this list of 10 Johnny Mathis songs that still hit in 2025—not because they’re oldies, but because they’re timeless. If you’ve ever been in love, lost love, or just dreamed about it on a rainy afternoon, there’s something here for you.
1. “Chances Are”
“Chances Are” is arguably the definitive Johnny Mathis song—a classic ballad that helped cement his place in the pantheon of great American vocalists. The track opens with a gentle orchestral build-up, but it’s Mathis’ entrance that captures the listener, soft and shimmering like a whisper in the dark. With this song, he doesn’t just sing about love—he becomes the very embodiment of romantic possibility.
The beauty of “Chances Are” lies in its simplicity. The lyrics are heartfelt, expressing tender vulnerability, and Mathis’ performance enhances every syllable with yearning and restraint. It’s easy to imagine this playing in the background during a candlelit dinner or a slow dance at a wedding, even in 2025. The song never aged; it just became more nostalgic.
What makes “Chances Are” so unforgettable is the way Mathis gives shape to emotional ambiguity. The word “chances” implies uncertainty, and yet when Mathis sings it, it sounds like a promise. There’s an air of unspoken devotion—something that says, “I may not be able to say everything I feel, but if you listen closely, you’ll know.” His delivery is so subtle and smooth that it becomes almost therapeutic—like reassurance for those who’ve ever fallen in love quietly.
In the modern music landscape, where so many ballads are belted out with theatrical fervor, “Chances Are” remains a testament to the power of restraint. It’s a song that doesn’t demand attention—it earns it, gently and sincerely. For listeners seeking an oasis from the noise, this track remains a lush, romantic escape into pure sentiment.
2. “Misty”
Mathis’ rendition of Erroll Garner’s “Misty” is a masterclass in how to take a jazz standard and turn it into something distinctly one’s own. His voice glides like satin over the melody, drawing listeners into a spellbound trance. He doesn’t force a single note, instead allowing the song’s delicate nature to carry the emotional weight.
“Misty” is one of those songs that you can close your eyes to and feel transported—whether to a smoky lounge in the ‘50s or your own living room on a rainy afternoon. It’s soulful without being sultry, gentle without fading into the background. Mathis adds a softness to the already dreamy arrangement, making it a favorite for jazz and easy listening fans alike.
What makes Mathis’ version stand apart is the way he captures the tension between clarity and confusion. The lyrics themselves speak of being disoriented by love—“I’m as helpless as a kitten up a tree”—and Mathis mirrors that in his delivery. He stretches each word just slightly longer than expected, as if he, too, is adrift in the haze of infatuation. It’s as if he’s singing while caught in a daydream, letting every note blur the lines between fantasy and reality.
Today, “Misty” can be found on playlists for relaxation, studying, or moments of quiet reflection. And with good reason. It holds up not because it’s a technical marvel, but because of the emotional intelligence Mathis brings. This is what separates great singers from the greats. It’s not just a song—it’s an atmosphere, a moment suspended in time, and Mathis makes sure it stays with you long after the final note.
3. “It’s Not for Me to Say”
This ballad is one of Mathis’ most emotionally nuanced recordings. “It’s Not for Me to Say” explores the fine line between infatuation and restrained love. The lush orchestration provides a perfect backdrop, yet Mathis never lets the instrumentation overshadow his voice. His phrasing is so delicate it feels like he’s speaking directly into your ear.
There’s a cinematic quality to this song. One can easily imagine it playing as the closing credits roll on an old black-and-white love story. And that’s what gives it longevity. Even without the visual accompaniment, the emotions paint their own picture—one of love, uncertainty, and hope. There’s a dream-like elegance in the way Mathis floats through each line, turning the act of not knowing into something tragically beautiful.
What makes this song even more powerful is its humility. The narrator doesn’t assume or demand love—he wonders, he hesitates, he waits. This kind of emotional posture is rare in today’s romantic narratives, which often lean into bold declarations or heartbreak revenge. Mathis, instead, offers a quiet yearning, acknowledging that love may not be his to define or secure. It’s patient, respectful, and deeply human.
In today’s context, this song speaks to the vulnerability of modern romance. In a world of dating apps and instant gratification, Mathis’ ability to hold back and let love breathe is refreshing. It’s an anthem for those who still believe in courtship and mystery. “It’s Not for Me to Say” remains an essential listen for anyone who’s ever found themselves falling for someone but dared not say the words out loud—because sometimes, love is felt more honestly in silence than in speech.
4. “Wonderful! Wonderful!”
“Wonderful! Wonderful!” is one of Mathis’ earliest hits and remains a fan favorite. What’s striking is how upbeat and bright the song is, without ever losing its romantic tone. The melody dances rather than strolls, and Mathis’ voice follows suit—agile, joyful, and feather-light. He doesn’t just sing the word “wonderful”—he sells it, injecting every repetition with genuine warmth and enchantment.
This song encapsulates that early period in pop where orchestration was just as important as lyrics. The strings swell like waves, and the backing vocals offer a harmonic richness that gently wraps around Mathis’ tenor like a well-tailored tuxedo. From the first line, there’s an optimism that can’t be faked. It’s romantic in that golden-age Hollywood sense—hopeful, light, and just a bit whimsical.
Perhaps what makes “Wonderful! Wonderful!” so enduring is its innocence. There’s no cynicism in the song, no need to question intentions or read between the lines. It’s the musical equivalent of a handwritten love letter—direct, open-hearted, and disarmingly honest. That emotional accessibility is rare, and Mathis handles it with the sincerity of a man who means every word he sings.
Today, “Wonderful! Wonderful!” works as a throwback to a simpler time in music, yet it still feels fresh. For listeners who appreciate artists like Michael Bublé or Harry Connick Jr., this is the blueprint. Mathis did it first—and often, better. Whether played at a retro-themed event or simply enjoyed during a quiet evening at home, the song remains, quite literally, wonderful.
5. “The Twelfth of Never”
A poetic love song, “The Twelfth of Never” is rich in metaphor and even richer in emotional impact. Mathis sings about undying love with a sincerity that’s hard to find today. His voice floats over the gentle arrangement, every syllable dipped in sincerity. There’s something quietly operatic about it—not in grandeur, but in devotion.
The phrase “the twelfth of never” itself is beautifully ambiguous—it represents eternity, a love that’s limitless and beyond time. Mathis leans into this concept, treating each lyric like a sacred promise. There’s no exaggeration in his tone, just earnest belief in the idea that love could last forever. That belief is infectious, and by the end of the song, you’re not just listening—you’re hoping, too.
Instrumentally, the song is understated, allowing Mathis’ voice to remain front and center. A soft piano, distant strings, and delicate backing harmonies act like a canvas on which his vocals paint a portrait of timeless devotion. It’s a minimalist approach, but in this case, less is definitely more. The emotional impact sneaks up on you, building slowly, then landing with clarity.
In an age where love songs often feel transactional or performative, “The Twelfth of Never” remains a beacon of idealism. For young lovers or longtime partners, this track still carries emotional weight. It’s timeless in every sense. Even now, when the world moves quickly and attention spans are short, this song offers an invitation to slow down and believe in something lasting.
6. “A Certain Smile”
“A Certain Smile” finds Mathis exploring the bittersweet side of love—the moments when joy and sadness blend. The melody is haunting in its beauty, and Mathis plays it perfectly, using his voice like a watercolor brush to blur the emotional lines. He’s not just singing; he’s painting mood and memory. The effect is cinematic, evoking images of soft glances, faded photographs, and unspoken goodbyes.
What makes this song exceptional is its restraint. There’s no vocal acrobatics, no grand flourishes—just pure emotion. It’s this level of subtlety that shows why Mathis is revered among vocalists. He makes complexity sound simple, and simplicity feel profound. When he sings “a certain smile,” it’s not just any smile—it’s one that holds a thousand stories, and he lets you fill in the details.
The instrumentation complements this delicacy. A gently plucked harp, subdued strings, and a minimalist rhythm section give the track a dreamy, floating quality. There’s almost a hypnotic pacing to the song, drawing the listener deeper into its emotional terrain. Mathis never rushes it—he gives the silence between the lines room to speak just as loudly.
Even in today’s hyper-produced music climate, “A Certain Smile” resonates. It can be the perfect soundtrack to introspective moments, breakup reflections, or the quiet contemplation of what might have been. There’s power in its melancholy. It teaches us that not all love songs are about declarations—some are about memories, and how even a single smile can leave a lasting echo.
7. “Wild Is the Wind”
Originally written for a film, “Wild Is the Wind” takes on new life in Mathis’ hands. This track is stormy, yearning, and operatic in scope. Mathis doesn’t just interpret the song—he surrenders to it. His vibrato is exquisite, and the emotional range he displays is breathtaking. With every note, he captures the restless energy of a love that refuses to be tamed.
The lyrics speak to love’s unpredictability and consuming force—“Love me, love me, say you do”—and Mathis delivers them with an aching vulnerability. You can hear the desperation underneath his composure. He leans into the emotional turbulence, embracing the beauty in the chaos. It’s one of those performances where it feels like the singer is baring something deeply personal.
This is the kind of song you experience rather than just hear. It builds slowly, almost like a thunderstorm gathering on the horizon, and by the final chorus, you’re fully caught in its gusts. Mathis’ voice is the wind—it moves, twists, and turns, full of unpredictability. There’s drama here, but it never feels theatrical for the sake of performance—it’s rooted in truth.
In the modern era, “Wild Is the Wind” could easily be covered by an artist like Sam Smith or Adele, which speaks to its enduring appeal. It’s dramatic without being overwrought—a true testament to the emotional power of Mathis’ artistry. This song proves that when handled with care, a love song can become something elemental, something spiritual.
8. “Maria”
Mathis’ take on “Maria” from West Side Story is both respectful to its Broadway roots and uniquely his own. He transforms the theatrical number into something more personal and tender. While others belt this song to the rafters, Mathis caresses it, turning it into a love letter. He doesn’t just sing the name—he breathes life into it, as if uttering it were a sacred act.
The real magic happens in his phrasing. He draws out the name “Maria” like it’s the most sacred word in the world. Each repetition feels different—sometimes awe-struck, sometimes whispered with longing. The orchestra swells around him, but never overwhelms. It’s romantic grandeur distilled into three minutes of near-perfection. Mathis understands that the power of this song lies not in volume, but in reverence.
What’s striking is how Mathis slows everything down, even time itself. The urgency found in other renditions is replaced by wonder. It’s the sound of someone falling in love, one syllable at a time. He makes the Broadway standard accessible to those unfamiliar with musicals and gives fans of the original a new perspective—one that’s introspective and heartfelt.
Even for listeners unfamiliar with musical theater, this rendition offers a doorway into its beauty. Mathis shows that even show tunes can have an intimate touch. It’s not just about the stage—it’s about the heart. “Maria” becomes not just a name, but a mantra of devotion, channeled through one of the most iconic voices in popular music.
9. “When Sunny Gets Blue”
This melancholic ballad is a staple of Mathis’ early catalog and one of the finest examples of his ability to express sadness without self-pity. The jazzy chord progressions and soft piano licks create a misty atmosphere, and Mathis moves through it like a ghost—soft, sorrowful, unforgettable. His tone is ethereal, as though he’s recalling someone who’s already drifted out of reach.
“When Sunny Gets Blue” is the kind of song that can catch you off-guard. At first, it feels light, almost relaxing, but then it hits you with emotional clarity. It’s about depression, disconnection, and longing, and Mathis delivers it with grace and empathy. You don’t just hear Sunny’s sadness—you feel it through the pauses, the sighs, the ache in every drawn-out vowel.
There’s a timelessness in its theme: the way someone’s energy changes when they’re emotionally wounded. That universal relatability keeps the song resonant in any era. Mathis doesn’t dramatize her pain; he respects it. He narrates her transformation with a gentleness that’s rare in male vocal performances from that era—or any era.
Today, this track is ideal for those late-night hours when emotions run high and distractions run low. It’s not just background music—it’s a companion in your solitude. Whether you’re grieving, healing, or just reflecting, “When Sunny Gets Blue” becomes a kind of musical therapy, led by a voice that understands the complexity of quiet heartbreak.
10. “Friends in Love” (with Dionne Warwick)
Though released later in Mathis’ career, “Friends in Love” is an important entry in his catalog. It shows that his voice aged like fine wine—still rich, still warm, still deeply expressive. Teaming up with Dionne Warwick, another vocal legend, Mathis explores the complex transition from friendship to romance. Their voices, like old friends themselves, intertwine with natural chemistry and mutual respect.
Their voices complement each other beautifully. There’s a conversational quality to the track, as if we’re eavesdropping on two people realizing they’ve crossed an emotional threshold. It’s a song about the vulnerability of stepping into love with someone you already trust—and the fear of losing what you already have. That layered emotion is captured exquisitely in both their deliveries.
The production is unmistakably ‘80s, with shimmering synths and soft rock arrangements, but it doesn’t feel dated. Instead, it offers a new layer to Mathis’ legacy—proof that he could adapt to changing musical landscapes without sacrificing artistic integrity. Warwick, too, brings her signature finesse, creating a duet that feels both nostalgic and forward-thinking.
“Friends in Love” is still relevant in an era where blurred relationship lines are more common than ever. It’s a mature love song, filled with questions and hopes. It’s honest, and that’s what makes it endure. Mathis and Warwick remind us that love’s journey doesn’t always start with fireworks—sometimes, it begins with a shared glance, a quiet moment, or a familiar voice saying, “Maybe it’s more than just friendship.”
Some artists make hits. Johnny Mathis made moments. These songs don’t just play—they linger. They bring you back to stolen glances across a dance floor, late-night phone calls, or the feeling of someone’s hand in yours on a quiet drive home. His music has that kind of soul—pure, understated, and deeply felt.
If you’ve never spent an evening letting his voice carry you through the highs and lows of your own heart, maybe it’s time. Pour something smooth, dim the lights, and press play. Johnny’s still here, still serenading us through the static, reminding us that real love songs never go out of style—they just grow deeper with every listen.
Staff Writer; Jamar Jackson
