About the song
“Vincent,” a hauntingly beautiful song by American singer-songwriter Don McLean, is a heartfelt tribute to the legendary Dutch painter Vincent van Gogh. Released in 1971 as part of McLean’s critically acclaimed album “American Pie,” “Vincent” stands out as one of the most poignant and introspective tracks of its era. The song, often referred to by its opening line “Starry, Starry Night,” delves deep into van Gogh’s tumultuous life and the profound emotional struggles he endured.
Don McLean penned “Vincent” as a homage to van Gogh after being profoundly moved by a biography of the artist. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of van Gogh’s masterpieces and his inner turmoil, seamlessly blending art and music into a touching narrative. The song’s melody, coupled with McLean’s soothing vocal delivery and acoustic guitar, creates an atmosphere of melancholy and reverence.
Upon its release, “Vincent” received widespread acclaim for its lyrical depth and musical composition. It quickly climbed the charts, reaching the 12th position on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States and achieving even greater success internationally. In the United Kingdom, the song peaked at number one, solidifying McLean’s status as a significant figure in the folk-rock genre.
“Vincent” is not just a song but a timeless tribute that has resonated with audiences for decades. Its introspective lyrics and gentle melody continue to evoke deep emotions, making it a beloved classic. The song’s ability to connect with listeners on such a profound level speaks to McLean’s extraordinary talent as a songwriter and the enduring legacy of Vincent van Gogh’s art. Whether you are a fan of McLean’s music or a lover of van Gogh’s paintings, “Vincent” offers a moving experience that bridges the worlds of visual art and music in a truly unforgettable way.
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Lyrics
There was a boy
Very strange, enchanted boy
They say he wandered very far
Very far over land and sea
A little shy and sad of eye
But very wise was he
And then one day
A magic day he passed my way
Though we talked of many thing, fools and kings
This he said to me
“The greatest thing you’ll ever learn
Is just to love and be loved in return”
Starry, starry night
Paint your palette blue and gray
Look out on a summer’s day
With eyes that know the darkness in my soul
Shadows on the hills
Sketch the trees and the daffodils
Catch the breeze and the winter chills
In colors on the snowy linen land
Now I understand
What you tried to say to me
How you suffered for your sanity
How you tried to set them free
They would not listen, they did not know how
Perhaps they’ll listen now
Starry, starry night
Flaming flowers that brightly blaze
Swirling clouds in violet haze
Reflect in Vincent’s eyes of china-blue
Colors changing hue
Morning fields of amber grain
Weathered faces lined in pain
Are soothed beneath the artist’s loving hand
Now I understand
What you tried to say to me
How you suffered for your sanity
And how you tried to set them free
They would not listen, they did not know how
Perhaps they’ll listen now
For they could not love you
But still your love was true
And when no hope was left in sight
On that starry, starry night
You took your life, as lovers often do
But I could’ve told you, Vincent
This world was never meant for
One as beautiful as you
Starry, starry night
Portraits hung in empty halls
Frameless heads on nameless walls
With eyes that watch this world and can’t forget
Like the strangers that you’ve met
The ragged men in ragged clothes
A silver thorn of bloody rose
Lie crushed and broken on the virgin snow
Now I think I know
What you tried to say to me
How you suffered for your sanity
And how you tried to set them free
They would not listen, they’re not listening still
Perhaps they never will
You’re gonna do that for me?
I’m gonna do this for you