Don is singing about the tortured life of Dutch painter Vincent Van Gogh who died in 1890. Van Gogh has been recognized as among the most famous and influential figures in the history of Western art. Yet this recognition only really came after his death. He died penniless.... Van Gogh sufferered from psychotic episodes and delusions. He often neglected his physical health, did not eat properly and drank heavily. His persistant depression eventually caused him to shoot himself in the chest with a revolver, dying from his injuries two days later. "Starry Starry Night" refers to one of his most famous works "Starry Night Over the Rhône", painted in 1888.
It’s worth watching the closing scenes of Dr who - The Doctor and Vincent, showing Vincent brought to 2005 Exhibition of his work, seeing how popular his work actually is. 😢
fayesouthall6604, Wow, I will have to try and find that episode. I always wondered how Vincent would feel seeing how his paintings are loved like no other. ❤️👍😇
This is a perfect description of this song. The writing is brilliant so many of the beautiful descriptions in the song references Vincent’s paintings the references to flowers & portraits in addition to the starry starry night references. Such a beautiful tribute to an amazing artist
@@cynthiamitchell2880 Mine too. Don’t know if you have or not, but he’s one artist whose works you have to see in person. The paint is so thick that it stands out on the canvas. Been to see his paintings in Paris and Amsterdam.
The irony of BP talking about Don painting a picture with this song without him realising it was about one of the greatest artists of all time makes this so worth watching.😊
About Vincent VAN GOGH...Brilliant artist!! Just saw an exhibition of his works a few years back. Speaking of story telling ballads ,check out The ballad of The Edmund Firzgerald ....another great story telling "tune" !
I agree. The first time I heard this song I got very sad when the lyrics, "and when no hope was left in sight", was sung. I got an ominous feeling in my mind about the lyrics to this beautifully worded song. A true word crafter, was Don McLean. By the time he sung, "I could have told you Vincent, this world was never meant for one as beautiful as you", tears were cascading down my cheeks. One of the best and most vivid songwriting attempts ever!!! Don McLean started and ended the song in a third person narrative. But somewhere along the way those unique, thoughtful and vibrant words lulled you into a first person narrative of the deepest, darkest dispair a human being can have. And one that unfortunately, can lead to an unfathomable decision we all hope we never have to personally experience. Unfortunately 27 years ago, my best friend,whose name you see as my google account name in his honor, made this sad and depressing decision. RIP 😇🙏 MY BEST FRIEND AND TRUE BROTHER, RONNIE KING!!! 🤜🤛 🤝 (I'm a little upset that I being a white man, cannot find a black emoji for my loved , respected and sorely missed black brother, as we are a world village with inclusion for all.)
Yes, but the only way you can really do justice to them is to see them in person. Looking at his paintings in a book is just not the same. He often used paints so thick that they would stand out on the canvas. What may look flat in a book comes alive when viewed firsthand.
If you listen to the lyrics you can catch the references to his many masterpieces - swirling clouds in violet haze, fields of amber grain, flaming flowers brightly blaze, weathered faces lined in pain. Look up a gallery of Van Gough's paintings and you'll see they are there in the song. As beautifully sung as they were painted.
@unmalo2768 men weren't arrested for domestic violence in the 1800s. So right a lie. His wife in fact, was one of the few people who tried to help Vincent overcome his demons. After, she was instrumental in getting his work recognized.
@@karidrgn Vincent never married. His brother, Theo, supported and promoted him, and bought the only painting Vincent ever sold in his lifetime. Theo died six months after Vincent, and Theo’s widow continued her late husband’s work of promoting Vincent’s art.
Vincent Van Gogh is considered one of the greatest painters in history, but he only sold one painting in his lifetime. He often traded his paintings for basic necessities such as food. He was supported financially by his younger brother Theo who was an art dealer. Vincent was a socially awkward person of deep emotions who tried to reach others with his love of humanity and God. In fact, he was fired as a young man at one of his early positions for proselytizing. He suffered mentally and was even a patient at a mental hospital at one time. All through his tortured life, Vincent continued painting his vibrant masterpieces. He ended his life at a fairly young age. His brother Theo died soon afterward. Theo's young widow was responsible for fulfilling Theo's vision of promoting Vincent's work to the world.
It's an ode to the painter, Vincent Van Gogh. “Starry, starry night”, is the title of one of Van Gogh's paintings. It was created in an asylum . van Gogh struggled with manic depression. He began to hallucinate and suffered attacks in which he lost consciousness. During one of his episodes, he used the knife & cut off his left ear. (He painted almost 900 paintings in 10 years) He was only 37 when he died.
thumbs up for the comment but, please, do not refer to him as a "painter". He was an artist. Not throwing any shade, but as you said he was a prolific artist.
@@HRConsultant_Jeff That is a way to separate his version of art from a wide variety of others, such as sculpture. Painter does not mean not an artist. My Dad (born 1921) was a classically trained...painter. He was the youngest person in his time to have been allowed to do copy work at the Met. He was also a jeweler (and oh yes an artist in that as well, and if some company did not own the patents...). His reproductions included various artists' work. Not all of it was in paint. He also did some sculpture (not his favorite). He primarily worked in oils, and had he not passed when he did (1980, and busy doing other work as it paid better... ) he'd have probably enjoyed some time with acrylics. He also worked in palette wax (to try it, love that desert scene he did with that!) and watercolors (amazing bit of portraiture, but again not his favorite). He'd not have taken offense at being called a painter. paint·er1 /ˈpān(t)ər/ noun noun: painter; plural noun: painters 1. an artist who paints pictures. "a German landscape painter" 2. a person who paints buildings, walls, ceilings, and woodwork, especially as a job. "a self-employed painter and decorator"
I know that you didn't know who Vincent was but still your comments were totally relevant for those with mental issues today. So touching, and what makes me sad is that collectors will spend millions on his works but there was no one there at the time to tell him how wonderful an artist he was.
This was Tupac’s favorite song because he considered himself first a poet and these lyrics painted a picture of pain and beauty. Tupac’s girlfriend played this for him in his last hours. RIP Tupac.
This song is about Vincent Van Gogh….. He painted Starry Starry night while looking out the window of a mental hospital that he signed himself into…. Unbelievably Vincent Van Gogh never sold a single painting while he was alive ! Starry night is valued at 100 million dollars !! He died penniless he shot himself in the chest….. Sadly he couldn’t escape his tortured thoughts… In this song Don mentions alot of his paintings.. Very sad
Every time I hear this song I immediately go and watch the Dr. Who Van Gogh museum scene. I know it isn't real, but it helps the absolute heartbreak this song always evokes. Between his beautiful writing and delicate delivery, this song touches my soul. Every. Single. Time. Even after all these years. That's talent.
Tupac Shakur's favorite song was the folk-pop song 'Vincent (Starry, Starry Night)' by Don McLean, so much so that when fatally wounded in a drive-by his girlfriend ensured it was the last song he listened to.
Because this song is telling a story. As BP says he's lyrics centric as most rappers are. Personally I think of rap as poetry set to rhythm. This song is certainly poetry. But what do I know? I'm a 75 yo white lady. 😂
@@margaretmarks6685 56. Also a form of 'white'. Rapped to a death metal band once just sitting around screwing around while (don't laugh) on a walker and teaching them to play D&D (it was something to do with battle axes, and medieval weaponry as I recall...). Yes, there is a hell of a story that goes with all that, and I am actually female, and this was in a semi-rural area near Tampa, so pretty backwards in many ways. Rap is poetry for sure, and was NOT something I generally did, but circumstances. They were going off to tour in Europe but had I still been about when they returned they wanted me to help them cough out some lyrics. Yes, I still find that amusing. That was in 1991. Everything was REALLY different then.
The song is about Vincent Van Gogh. He was a very famous painter from the mid 19th century (painter of "Starry Night"). Despite his great success in the present day, he was often seen as a failure of an artist in his time. He only ever sold one painting in his life, and it was to his brother (he bought it anonymously). On July 29th, 1890, he commited suicude at the young age of 37. There is a version of this song that features Van Gogh's paintings behind the lyrics. Each line is perfectly written to match Van Gogh's art style. Don McLean wrote this song on a brown paper bag while looking at a copy of Starry Night after hearing his story. This was Tupac's favorite song, the last song they played for him before he died in the hospital after being shot. A truly beautiful piece that transends generations. Shows the pure beauty in McLean's writing.
It is suspected that Vincent suffered from lead poisoning from the toxins in his paints. The rings of light, which are an effect of it, that are so prominent in his painting, "Starry Starry Night," depict the way his physical vision was affected by the poisoning; it is the way the world appeared to him. Lead poisoning is very likely to have contributed to the mental and emotional struggles he endured, too. Such a painful irony that the symptoms of lead poisoning contributed to the distortion of his vision and the agony of his mental state yet also played such an integral expression in his genius.
There is another video on TH-cam with the lyrics, but more importantly, the paintings by Van Gogh that McClain is referring to in the song. It is VERY POWERFUL! IT'S A MUST SEE! Watch it at home or a revist reaction to the original video. It is so good! Vincent Van Gogh was an amazing artist Sadly haunted by his mental health issues. God rest his soul!❤ A very tragic thing he did that no onechas mentioned here is that he cut off his ear and mailed itcto his lost love. He later painted a picture ofchimself with a bandage on his ear.
Here's the link to the video you mentioned. ...th-cam.com/video/oxHnRfhDmrk/w-d-xo.html Just watched it - such a great overview of Van Gough's body of work accompanied by McLean's soul-wrenching song. Thank you for directing me to this beautiful experience!
He recently recorded this again with Home Free. They show clips of some of his paintings, it's amazing. Starry night was the name of one of his most famous paintings.
Don also recorded American Pie with Home Free. It was in celebration of American Pie's fiftieth anniversary. The profits from the recording was used to help independent venues that were financially harmed or closed due to the pandemic.
*"But I could have told you, Vincent, this world was never meant for one as beautiful as you."* The song describes many of Vincent's paintings; the beautiful painful world he saw. His work was not appreciated until after his death. You were very on target; when this came out I listened to it dozens of times because it spoke to me, still does, even though I didn't know it was about Van Gogh until much later. This is truly one of the most beautiful songs I've ever heard and that's saying a lot. A great singer, an even greater poet. Please do more of Don McLean. I am particularly fond of Empty Chairs; Winterwood; Castles in the Air. I am of a different race, era, religion, and musical background than you but I am enjoying seeing you discover the many musical treasures of my time. Your good soul shines through in your reactions. Thank you.
I'm always SO touched when reactors like BP don't know the back story and FEEL like Don McLean is singing about his FRIEND....not a painter from the 1800's- but an actual FRIEND....that's love right there- seeping through every word and note :)❤
I love this live performance. It always makes me cry. The version with Van Gogh’s paintings is also amazing and really showcases the artist’s work and the beautiful way Don put words to the art.
Age 65 here and have been listening to this song forever. Great version; and hope BP will look at some of Van Gogh’s paintings in person when he gets a chance. Seeing them in person is amazing. But back to the song. Sitting here sobbing when I need to be packing for a trip.
I totally agree. My mother has been a painter at heart😢 my whole life I was born in 72. We heard this song in the car and I teared up. I said to her you know this song is about Van gough? She had no idea and then everything clicked. It's a stunning song
This is such a beautiful song! Thanks for sharing your thoughts with us! The Starry Night is one of my favorite paintings and Vincent Van Gogh one of my favorite artists! There is speculation that VG’s “yellow period” which included that painting was that he was being treated for his seizures with digitalis (from the foxglove plant) and developed digitalis toxicity which leads to changes in vision including seeing yellow halos when looking at lights in the dark and a yellow haze in general. Very interesting to me as a nurse probably not so much for others😂😂 Love your musical journey of discovery ❤️🔥✌🏻🫶🏻
"You took your life as lovers often do.." Vincent Van Gogh was in love with the world, what he saw, and his need to paint what he saw/how he saw it. But the world did not love him back--until decades later.
@@ilonaforsman June 16, 1971 - September 13, 1996), also known by his stage names 2Pac and Makaveli, was an American rapper and songwriter. Considered to be one of the most influential and successful rappers of all time,[1][2] academics regard him as one of the most influential music artists of the 20th century and also a politically conscious activist voice for Black America.[3][4] Shakur is among the best-selling music artists, having sold more than 75 million records worldwide. His lyrical content has been noted for addressing social injustice, political issues, and the marginalization of other African-Americans,[5][6] but he was also synonymous with gangsta rap and violent lyrics.[7]
McLean says he was reading a biography of Vincent van Gogh when he stumbled upon the idea of composing a song. And so that's how this emotional and impactful song happened. I was just a 12-year-old hearing this for the first time and cried. I don't even know why. Everything was perfect in my life, but it's the first song I cried to.
I love Vincent VanGough's art, the textures and colors are like no other. There is a book Dear Theo, where Vincent through the years wrote his brother regularly for help, and in these letters you can really feel Vincent's search of self, highs and lows like no other. This song nails it for me. Black Pegasus, you should also listen to the studio version. Thanks for playing this bittersweet but beautiful song.❤️👍
The song is about Vincent Van Gouh the famous impressionist artist. During his life time he never sold a single painting and yet all his works today are considered priceless and are hung in the most famous museums in the world. Also Vincent suffered heavily from mental illness cutting off his own ear and latter tragically ending himself. The world lost one the grea greatest artist ever that day. Side note "Stary Night" was one of his most famous painting and a lyric in the song
As the mother of an adult son who took his life in 2016, this song and its message concerning mental health and suicide touches my heart. From the first time I heard it in 1971or2, it has always made me feel the sadness or brought me to tears. Now it still does, but it hits even deeper. You can understand why this was Tupacs favorite song. Much love from Maine and keep doin what ya do ❤
Don McLean recently released a new version of Vincent with Home Free. He also performed his classic American Pie for its fiftieth anniversary with Home Free, not so long ago. The new versions keep Don at the forefront and retain the original feeling while at the same time, Home Free injects a new vitality into the songs. You ought to check them out.
The song "Killing Me Softly" was written about Don McClean during this part of his Career. Lori Lieberman saw him in concert and was enthralled with this young singer/songwriter. She collaborated with Norman Gimble on the lyrics, but the song is also credited to Charles Fox for the arrangement. The song was made famous by Roberta Flack.
Vincent Van Gogh only sold one painting throughout his entire lifetime. People didn't understand his artistic style at the time. His passion for attempting to create what he saw and felt on canvas was almost like a music artist struggling to capture the perfect lyrics. This is a magnificent homage from one brilliant artist to another brilliant artist. If you have the opportunity check out the video with the beautiful lyrics with Van Goghs' incredible paintings behind them. His paintings are now priceless. In 2022 a painting sold for 170 million! Vincent died in 1890 penniless.
Vincent Van Gogh artist who was inflicted with depression and anxiety, cut off his own ear to stop the voices.Google- Starry, starry night, Vincent Van gogh
This is about Vincent Van Gogh. You should watch the Doctor Who episode where the Doctor takes VVG to future to try and help his soul. Beautiful. I know it’s only Doctor Who but the acting is superb in the scene.
The opening line "starry, starry night" refers to a very famous painting by vincen van gogh called, well... "Starry Night" of course. The song is about this famous painter's suffering as you know by now probably. The picture, I have re-print in my bedroom, is one of the most beautiful painting he made imo.
Vincent Van Gogh is my favorite artist. He suffered his entire life with mental health issues. One of his most famous paintings, Starry Night, was painted while he was in an asylum. He was allowed out on the grounds during the day but had to be locked in his room at night. This is what he imagined the night sky looked like during this time. Great reaction
You should check out some of Van Gough's paintings, and then all of the lyrics will make sense - Starry Starring Night refers to Van Gough's painting called Starry Night, and lyrics "the swirling clouds in violet haze" describe it to a tee. Likewise "the morning fields of amber grain" refers to his painting called Wheatfield with Crows; and "the weathered faces lined in pain" could refer to his own self-portraits that he did, or the painting called The Potato Eaters.
BP, 50+ years later, Don performed this with Home Free and he still is "killing softly with his words". I dreamed for a couple of yearsvthat Home Free did this song. My hubby is Vincent and he too is a painter!
The dichotomy within this song is mesmerizing............. Can a song possibly be written any more tragically beautiful? I think not. I tear up every time I see this performance (I'm 67 years old). When an artist can move you to such emotion, they have hit an apex of achievement. Congratulations Don Mclean for what you left us (Especially this song and American Pie) and especially for what you left for Vincent Van Gough. DM is 78 years old and still going. Thank you for your insightful reaction.
growing up in the 70s We all knew who he was singing about. I've heard this song 100s of times & not til BP commented did I get chills. What a perspective coming from one who listened for the first time.
I agree with your assessment and I just today realized by the various reaction videos that it was about Vincent Van Gogh...I NEVER New and I grew up listening to this. OMG...what a realization for me...Thank you.
When I first heard this song I did not know it was about the artist Vincent Van Gogh. At the time some one in my class at school had passed away from suicide. This song touched me to my core. The person I knew was a beautiful person inside and out. It hurt several of us that they felt so lonely, when they were loved so much. 😢
AND THAT DETAIL WAS THE PAINTING ROBERT! ( STARRY STARRY NIGHT ) 😊YOU COULD LISTEN TO THIS DOZENS OF TIMES AND IT'LL HIT YOU HARD ROBERT! 💯R.I.P ☹VINCENT!
I was 7 when this came out. I didn’t understand it; I just knew how the words and music moved me somehow. I had the same emotions in my college art history class looking at Van Gogh’s paintings and I finally understood.
This sad song is about the Dutch artist Vincent van Gogh who painted Starry Night in 1889 looking out the window of his room in a Sanitarium (mental hospital) after having cut off one of his ears. He committed suicide the following year at 37 years of age. He lived a difficult life but left behind hundreds of paintings. Starry Night is at MOMA (Museum of Modern Art) in NYC. Other paintings at the National Gallery of Art in Wash DC and of course in various museums in Europe.
Van Gogh is BY FAR my favorite painter, and this song NEVER FAILS to make me cry!! All of the descriptive scenes he's referring to are of Van Gogh's artworks.
"He's painting this beautiful picture" - Ironic and appropriate considering the subject matter. Even you not knowing what it's about your soul KNEW what it was about... Love you BP!
BP ~ PLEASE tell us how you feel and what you think, knowing now that this was about Vincent Van Gogh. I know I'm not the only one who wants to know. Don't feel too bad though. I'm 67 and didn't know it was about him until I started watching reaction videos a few years ago!!! EDIT: BTW Kirk Douglas did a Superb movie on Vincent Van Gogh in 1956, directed by Vincente Minnelli, called Lust For Life - watch for it on TCM.
This song's about the famous Dutch painter Vincent Van Gogh 1853 - 1890 who had mental issues, but one of the greatest artists of all time. There's an episode of Doctor Who about Van Gogh, and it's one of the most moving tributes to Vincent. When he sings starry, starry night is a reference to one of Van Gogh's most famous paintings called Starry Night.
a couple of things... first of all, i'm sure that you figured out by now that the song is about vincent van gough (NOW, go back and listen a few more times). i would encourage you to do some quick research into vincent's life and his works of art, many of which you are familiar with, but maybe you didn't know ("perhaps they'll listen now"). 2nd, to say that mcclean is a good lyricist would be an understatement. i would rather say that the man is a poet who plays a little guitar. if you haven't done "american pie" yet, it is an absolute MUST. finally, i want to say that by watching this reaction, i now know that you are indeed watching for the first time, without doing research or listening ahead of time. that makes me want to watch you more than anything. THAT is why we tune in. the experience for US, is getting the very first reaction to music and songs that we grew up with and that mean so much to us. thank you VERY MUCH for that. "REAL" is your gift to your audience. God Bless, and PLEASE keep it up. you have become my favorite daily pastime
I think I still have the vinyl...got search the house...thanks BP ...sometimes I feel the same way as Vincent, people don't see the what's around them, the beauty...my Uncle gave us this record in early 70s ....we were headed to Alaska :p Its another tear jerker :'( Gracias a Dio who gave us everything, use it people
Its so strange to see someone not know about this song and Vincet but years are flying by and its getting to another generation from channels like this ❤
Such a deep song, thank you for reacting. No matter if the song was written about Vincent Van Gogh or not, it's relatable to anyone dealing with mental illness themselves or someone they love. I do agree, watch the lyric version with Vincent's painting as well, hits even deeper.
I find it interesting on how people who’ve lead sheltered lives don’t always pick up on things. Simply because I loved American Pie after first hearing it. I got a copy of Don McLean’s best of (as I always did with artists when I loved one of their songs) to hear what else he’d done. And by listening to the lyrics I somehow knew the song was about Vincent Van Gough. It probably didn’t sink in from the first listen. (It was so long ago I can’t remember). But it did flick that switch. And I always loved this song.
Wonderful reaction, BP. It was and still is, one of my favorite songs. I had a print of Van Gogh’s Sunflowers hanging on my wall all thru junior and senior high school. A tortured genius who left incredible beauty behind for us all.
This songs always gets me into tears. I remember standing in front of Vincent´s paintings at The Van-Gogh-Museum in Amsterdam and these lyrics came to my mind. I couldn´t help but cry and I didn´t care about the other people around me. Now, if you really want to know what kind of person Vincent van Gogh was try to get a copy of the letters he wrote to his two-years younger brother Theo.
Again, just like American Pie, Don's lyrics have multiple meanings! Yes, the song is mainly about Vincent Van Gogh BUT at the same time it is acknowledging the mental heath crisis that plagues all 1st world countries like no other song can do! You have to remember, there is NOTHING truly new in the struggles of life, politics, love, hate, and misunderstanding. You just have to look at the political crisis now vs where the world was at the turn of the 20th century 100 to 120 yrs ago, it is virtually the same crises and issues plaguing our country!! Life always seems to repeat itself over and over!! This song, like American Pie, is timeless and will probably be as relevant 100, 200, 300 years in the future as when written and as when lived by Van Gogh!!
Don is singing about the tortured life of Dutch painter Vincent Van Gogh who died in 1890. Van Gogh has been recognized as among the most famous and influential figures in the history of Western art. Yet this recognition only really came after his death. He died penniless....
Van Gogh sufferered from psychotic episodes and delusions. He often neglected his physical health, did not eat properly and drank heavily.
His persistant depression eventually caused him to shoot himself in the chest with a revolver, dying from his injuries two days later.
"Starry Starry Night" refers to one of his most famous works "Starry Night Over the Rhône", painted in 1888.
He also painted "The Starry Night" in 1889.
It’s worth watching the closing scenes of Dr who - The Doctor and Vincent, showing Vincent brought to 2005 Exhibition of his work, seeing how popular his work actually is. 😢
fayesouthall6604,
Wow, I will have to try and find that episode. I always wondered how Vincent would feel seeing how his paintings are loved like no other. ❤️👍😇
This is a perfect description of this song. The writing is brilliant so many of the beautiful descriptions in the song references Vincent’s paintings the references to flowers & portraits in addition to the starry starry night references. Such a beautiful tribute to an amazing artist
Excellent synopsis of Van Gough's life...Many only know him as "the artist guy that cut his ear off". They don't know the backstory...
One of the most beautiful and haunting songs ever written.
oh yes!
What do you mean "one of" ?
I agree. Such a tribute to one of the greatest painters ever. Van Gogh is my favorite of all the other artists
@@cynthiamitchell2880 Mine too. Don’t know if you have or not, but he’s one artist whose works you have to see in person. The paint is so thick that it stands out on the canvas. Been to see his paintings in Paris and Amsterdam.
@@d.s.6268not to take anything away from this song, but "Dust in the Wind" by Kansas rates right uo there too.
The irony of BP talking about Don painting a picture with this song without him realising it was about one of the greatest artists of all time makes this so worth watching.😊
Was thinking the same thing when he said it.
Caught that too 😂.
Yeah, I was totally like well, that's ironic.Wait till he finds out
About Vincent VAN GOGH...Brilliant artist!! Just saw an exhibition of his works a few years back. Speaking of story telling ballads ,check out The ballad of The Edmund Firzgerald ....another great story telling "tune" !
My thoughts exactly
The line that gets me every time is "This world was not meant for one as beautiful as you."
Chills every time
I agree. The first time I heard this song I got very sad when the lyrics, "and when no hope was left in sight", was sung. I got an ominous feeling in my mind about the lyrics to this beautifully worded song. A true word crafter, was Don McLean. By the time he sung, "I could have told you Vincent, this world was never meant for one as beautiful as you", tears were cascading down my cheeks. One of the best and most vivid songwriting attempts ever!!! Don McLean started and ended the song in a third person narrative. But somewhere along the way those unique, thoughtful and vibrant words lulled you into a first person narrative of the deepest, darkest dispair a human being can have. And one that unfortunately, can lead to an unfathomable decision we all hope we never have to personally experience. Unfortunately 27 years ago, my best friend,whose name you see as my google account name in his honor, made this sad and depressing decision. RIP 😇🙏 MY BEST FRIEND AND TRUE BROTHER, RONNIE KING!!! 🤜🤛 🤝 (I'm a little upset that I being a white man, cannot find a black emoji for my loved , respected and sorely missed black brother, as we are a world village with inclusion for all.)
I've heard this song a million times and it never fails to make me cry.
best part of the song
Me too
Vincents' paintings will stir your soul like the song
😊YES!!🥰🥰🥰
Yes, but the only way you can really do justice to them is to see them in person. Looking at his paintings in a book is just not the same. He often used paints so thick that they would stand out on the canvas. What may look flat in a book comes alive when viewed firsthand.
There is a Doctor Who episode where the Doctor takes VanGogh thru time to an art museum, where all of his art is displayed. It will break your heart.
love that episode. cry every time
Totally classic episode
@@TheSILENTBOB180I know 😢
Wonderful episode, Tony Curran was incredible as Vincent.
shannonotoole3526,
Me too, every time!💦
I personally think that this is his best song.
I really love Crossroads…saved me many times.
Me too
unbelievable song writing
If you listen to the lyrics you can catch the references to his many masterpieces - swirling clouds in violet haze, fields of amber grain, flaming flowers brightly blaze, weathered faces lined in pain. Look up a gallery of Van Gough's paintings and you'll see they are there in the song. As beautifully sung as they were painted.
Don wasn't just a writer, he was a storyteller
And a domestic abuser! Arrested for DV!
@@unmalo2768Fake news.
@unmalo2768 men weren't arrested for domestic violence in the 1800s. So right a lie. His wife in fact, was one of the few people who tried to help Vincent overcome his demons. After, she was instrumental in getting his work recognized.
@@karidrgn Unmalo2768 was saying DonMcClean was an abuser - not Vincent Vangogh. I know nothing about that though.
@@karidrgn Vincent never married. His brother, Theo, supported and promoted him, and bought the only painting Vincent ever sold in his lifetime. Theo died six months after Vincent, and Theo’s widow continued her late husband’s work of promoting Vincent’s art.
Vincent Van Gogh is considered one of the greatest painters in history, but he only sold one painting in his lifetime. He often traded his paintings for basic necessities such as food. He was supported financially by his younger brother Theo who was an art dealer. Vincent was a socially awkward person of deep emotions who tried to reach others with his love of humanity and God. In fact, he was fired as a young man at one of his early positions for proselytizing. He suffered mentally and was even a patient at a mental hospital at one time. All through his tortured life, Vincent continued painting his vibrant masterpieces. He ended his life at a fairly young age. His brother Theo died soon afterward. Theo's young widow was responsible for fulfilling Theo's vision of promoting Vincent's work to the world.
Thank you for this history! ❤
And the only picture he sold in his lifetime was one bought by Theo.
Theo's widow, Johanna had his body exhumed and sent to France that Theo could lie in rest with his beloved brother Vincent in 1914.
@@SueProv I did not know that. Your comment brought tears to my eyes.
I believe it's been said that he painted his "Starry Starry Night" from the view from his room in the mental health hospital.
It's an ode to the painter, Vincent Van Gogh. “Starry, starry night”, is the title of one of Van Gogh's paintings. It was created in an asylum . van Gogh struggled with manic depression. He began to hallucinate and suffered attacks in which he lost consciousness. During one of his episodes, he used the knife & cut off his left ear. (He painted almost 900 paintings in 10 years) He was only 37 when he died.
thumbs up for the comment but, please, do not refer to him as a "painter". He was an artist. Not throwing any shade, but as you said he was a prolific artist.
Several of his other paintings are also described in the song.
"The Starry Night" but otherwise OK.
He did not cut off his ear. He only cut off a small portion of it.
@@HRConsultant_Jeff That is a way to separate his version of art from a wide variety of others, such as sculpture. Painter does not mean not an artist. My Dad (born 1921) was a classically trained...painter. He was the youngest person in his time to have been allowed to do copy work at the Met. He was also a jeweler (and oh yes an artist in that as well, and if some company did not own the patents...). His reproductions included various artists' work. Not all of it was in paint. He also did some sculpture (not his favorite). He primarily worked in oils, and had he not passed when he did (1980, and busy doing other work as it paid better... ) he'd have probably enjoyed some time with acrylics. He also worked in palette wax (to try it, love that desert scene he did with that!) and watercolors (amazing bit of portraiture, but again not his favorite). He'd not have taken offense at being called a painter.
paint·er1
/ˈpān(t)ər/
noun
noun: painter; plural noun: painters
1.
an artist who paints pictures.
"a German landscape painter"
2.
a person who paints buildings, walls, ceilings, and woodwork, especially as a job.
"a self-employed painter and decorator"
I know that you didn't know who Vincent was but still your comments were totally relevant for those with mental issues today. So touching, and what makes me sad is that collectors will spend millions on his works but there was no one there at the time to tell him how wonderful an artist he was.
The masses can be grossly ignorant!
So true😢
@@glennburch1081Can be? Are
Art snobs rarely recognize true art!
Absolutely true.
This was Tupac’s favorite song because he considered himself first a poet and these lyrics painted a picture of pain and beauty. Tupac’s girlfriend played this for him in his last hours. RIP Tupac.
Coincidentally, there's a picture of Tupac directly under the video! 🥹
This song is about Vincent Van Gogh….. He painted Starry Starry night while looking out the window of a mental hospital that he signed himself into…. Unbelievably Vincent Van Gogh never sold a single painting while he was alive ! Starry night is valued at 100 million dollars !! He died penniless he shot himself in the chest….. Sadly he couldn’t escape his tortured thoughts… In this song Don mentions alot of his paintings.. Very sad
There is a lyric video of Vincent featuring his paintings that is very impactful that you will enjoy
Yes, I was coming to recommend the same thing, thanks for getting there first! 😊
It is such a good highlight to the song and just shows how great the lyrics were
a must
Every time I hear this song I immediately go and watch the Dr. Who Van Gogh museum scene. I know it isn't real, but it helps the absolute heartbreak this song always evokes. Between his beautiful writing and delicate delivery, this song touches my soul. Every. Single. Time. Even after all these years. That's talent.
same, and then i cry every time lol
And wasn't that the best tribute ever !!!
@@nim4464 Same!
OMG - that's one of my all time favorite Dr Who episodes. Can watch it over and over again - and I have. So moving.
This song always made me cry …….
THIS IS my absolute favorite song Don wrote, I love American Pie but Vincent is haunting and deep.
When I was just a little girl I heard this song and I loved it then. Love it still
Tupac peeking over your desk throughout this reaction was both beautiful and haunting
Tupac Shakur's favorite song was the folk-pop song 'Vincent (Starry, Starry Night)' by Don McLean, so much so that when fatally wounded in a drive-by his girlfriend ensured it was the last song he listened to.
Because this song is telling a story. As BP says he's lyrics centric as most rappers are. Personally I think of rap as poetry set to rhythm.
This song is certainly poetry. But what do I know? I'm a 75 yo white lady. 😂
That is so interesting!
@@margaretmarks6685 56. Also a form of 'white'. Rapped to a death metal band once just sitting around screwing around while (don't laugh) on a walker and teaching them to play D&D (it was something to do with battle axes, and medieval weaponry as I recall...). Yes, there is a hell of a story that goes with all that, and I am actually female, and this was in a semi-rural area near Tampa, so pretty backwards in many ways. Rap is poetry for sure, and was NOT something I generally did, but circumstances. They were going off to tour in Europe but had I still been about when they returned they wanted me to help them cough out some lyrics. Yes, I still find that amusing. That was in 1991. Everything was REALLY different then.
Oh man. Did not know that. 😢
The song is about Vincent Van Gogh. He was a very famous painter from the mid 19th century (painter of "Starry Night"). Despite his great success in the present day, he was often seen as a failure of an artist in his time. He only ever sold one painting in his life, and it was to his brother (he bought it anonymously). On July 29th, 1890, he commited suicude at the young age of 37. There is a version of this song that features Van Gogh's paintings behind the lyrics. Each line is perfectly written to match Van Gogh's art style. Don McLean wrote this song on a brown paper bag while looking at a copy of Starry Night after hearing his story. This was Tupac's favorite song, the last song they played for him before he died in the hospital after being shot. A truly beautiful piece that transends generations. Shows the pure beauty in McLean's writing.
It is suspected that Vincent suffered from lead poisoning from the toxins in his paints. The rings of light, which are an effect of it, that are so prominent in his painting, "Starry Starry Night," depict the way his physical vision was affected by the poisoning; it is the way the world appeared to him. Lead poisoning is very likely to have contributed to the mental and emotional struggles he endured, too. Such a painful irony that the symptoms of lead poisoning contributed to the distortion of his vision and the agony of his mental state yet also played such an integral expression in his genius.
There is another video on TH-cam with the lyrics, but more importantly, the paintings by Van Gogh that McClain is referring to in the song. It is VERY POWERFUL! IT'S A MUST SEE! Watch it at home or a revist reaction to the original video. It is so good! Vincent Van Gogh was an amazing artist Sadly haunted by his mental health issues. God rest his soul!❤ A very tragic thing he did that no onechas mentioned here is that he cut off his ear and mailed itcto his lost love. He later painted a picture ofchimself with a bandage on his ear.
Here's the link to the video you mentioned. ...th-cam.com/video/oxHnRfhDmrk/w-d-xo.html Just watched it - such a great overview of Van Gough's body of work accompanied by McLean's soul-wrenching song. Thank you for directing me to this beautiful experience!
@@rubyslippers8215 - Thank you for posting the link to Vincent Van Gogh's video.
He just did this with Home Free...It dropped 6 days ago! He still sounds amazing at almost 80 years old! U should definitely check it out!
I heard it!!!!! It’s ABSOLUTELY AMAZING!! I mean I like this original but it just has a different dimension with Home Free’s harmony added.
He recently recorded this again with Home Free. They show clips of some of his paintings, it's amazing. Starry night was the name of one of his most famous paintings.
Home Free's version is simply wonderful. I loved how they incorporated the paintings into the video and of course, the vocals are amazing.
thank you, i didnt know about this.
Yes, came here to say the same. It's a wonderful version
Ditto. Beautiful version. It was interesting to hear how Don's has matured in over 50 years. He still has it.
Don also recorded American Pie with Home Free. It was in celebration of American Pie's fiftieth anniversary. The profits from the recording was used to help independent venues that were financially harmed or closed due to the pandemic.
This song is about Vincent Van Gogh
*"But I could have told you, Vincent, this world was never meant for one as beautiful as you."*
The song describes many of Vincent's paintings; the beautiful painful world he saw. His work was not appreciated until after his death.
You were very on target; when this came out I listened to it dozens of times because it spoke to me, still does, even though I didn't know it was about Van Gogh until much later. This is truly one of the most beautiful songs I've ever heard and that's saying a lot. A great singer, an even greater poet. Please do more of Don McLean.
I am particularly fond of Empty Chairs; Winterwood; Castles in the Air.
I am of a different race, era, religion, and musical background than you but I am enjoying seeing you discover the many musical treasures of my time. Your good soul shines through in your reactions. Thank you.
I'm always SO touched when reactors like BP don't know the back story and FEEL like Don McLean is singing about his FRIEND....not a painter from the 1800's- but an actual FRIEND....that's love right there- seeping through every word and note :)❤
Don McLean is in his late 70's now. He just released a version of Vincent with Home Free. It's beautiful with paintings in the background.
I love this live performance. It always makes me cry. The version with Van Gogh’s paintings is also amazing and really showcases the artist’s work and the beautiful way Don put words to the art.
oh yes! amazing!
Age 65 here and have been listening to this song forever.
Great version; and hope BP will look at some of Van Gogh’s paintings in person when he gets a chance. Seeing them in person is amazing.
But back to the song. Sitting here sobbing when I need to be packing for a trip.
I totally agree. My mother has been a painter at heart😢 my whole life I was born in 72. We heard this song in the car and I teared up. I said to her you know this song is about Van gough? She had no idea and then everything clicked. It's a stunning song
It was Tupac's favourite song and, if memory serves me correctly, it was played by his death bed.
This is such a beautiful song! Thanks for sharing your thoughts with us! The Starry Night is one of my favorite paintings and Vincent Van Gogh one of my favorite artists! There is speculation that VG’s “yellow period” which included that painting was that he was being treated for his seizures with digitalis (from the foxglove plant) and developed digitalis toxicity which leads to changes in vision including seeing yellow halos when looking at lights in the dark and a yellow haze in general. Very interesting to me as a nurse probably not so much for others😂😂 Love your musical journey of discovery ❤️🔥✌🏻🫶🏻
Yeah, and sucking on his paintbrush full of leaded paint didn't help either!
Love his art and love this song.❤️
About 5 years ago, the Van Gogh museum in Amsterdam invited Don Mclean to perform this song inside the museum.
"You took your life as lovers often do.." Vincent Van Gogh was in love with the world, what he saw, and his need to paint what he saw/how he saw it. But the world did not love him back--until decades later.
This was Tupac’s favorite song.
Who is Tupac ?
@@ilonaforsman huh?
@@ilonaforsman🙄🙄🙄👎🏽
@@ilonaforsman 🙄🙄🙄👎🏽
@@ilonaforsman June 16, 1971 - September 13, 1996), also known by his stage names 2Pac and Makaveli, was an American rapper and songwriter. Considered to be one of the most influential and successful rappers of all time,[1][2] academics regard him as one of the most influential music artists of the 20th century and also a politically conscious activist voice for Black America.[3][4] Shakur is among the best-selling music artists, having sold more than 75 million records worldwide. His lyrical content has been noted for addressing social injustice, political issues, and the marginalization of other African-Americans,[5][6] but he was also synonymous with gangsta rap and violent lyrics.[7]
McLean says he was reading a biography of Vincent van Gogh when he stumbled upon the idea of composing a song. And so that's how this emotional and impactful song happened. I was just a 12-year-old hearing this for the first time and cried. I don't even know why. Everything was perfect in my life, but it's the first song I cried to.
I read that after McLean read this about Van Gogh he wrote this Song in less than a half hour.
My dad loved Don Mclean and always cried when this song came on. Every time.
This song gives me goosebumps every time. A masterpiece.
I love Vincent VanGough's art, the textures and colors are like no other. There is a book Dear Theo, where Vincent through the years wrote his brother regularly for help, and in these letters you can really feel Vincent's search of self, highs and lows like no other. This song nails it for me. Black Pegasus, you should also listen to the studio version. Thanks for playing this bittersweet but beautiful song.❤️👍
His name is Vincent van Gogh🙄!
You are correct, sorry about that!
😜
Should check out the new version Don just put out with Homefree!! Great version
The song is about Vincent Van Gouh the famous impressionist artist. During his life time he never sold a single painting and yet all his works today are considered priceless and are hung in the most famous museums in the world. Also Vincent suffered heavily from mental illness cutting off his own ear and latter tragically ending himself. The world lost one the grea
greatest artist ever that day. Side note "Stary Night" was one of his most famous painting and a lyric in the song
As the mother of an adult son who took his life in 2016, this song and its message concerning mental health and suicide touches my heart. From the first time I heard it in 1971or2, it has always made me feel the sadness or brought me to tears. Now it still does, but it hits even deeper.
You can understand why this was Tupacs favorite song.
Much love from Maine and keep doin what ya do ❤
💗🥀💗
As a young man Vincent stayed in a house in South London up the road from where I lived as a young child,there’s a blue plaque there in his honour
Don McLean recently released a new version of Vincent with Home Free. He also performed his classic American Pie for its fiftieth anniversary with Home Free, not so long ago. The new versions keep Don at the forefront and retain the original feeling while at the same time, Home Free injects a new vitality into the songs. You ought to check them out.
The song "Killing Me Softly" was written about Don McClean during this part of his Career. Lori Lieberman saw him in concert and was enthralled with this young singer/songwriter. She collaborated with Norman Gimble on the lyrics, but the song is also credited to Charles Fox for the arrangement. The song was made famous by Roberta Flack.
Vincent Van Gogh only sold one painting throughout his entire lifetime. People didn't understand his artistic style at the time. His passion for attempting to create what he saw and felt on canvas was almost like a music artist struggling to capture the perfect lyrics. This is a magnificent homage from one brilliant artist to another brilliant artist. If you have the opportunity check out the video with the beautiful lyrics with Van Goghs' incredible paintings behind them. His paintings are now priceless. In 2022 a painting sold for 170 million! Vincent died in 1890 penniless.
Vincent Van Gogh artist who was inflicted with depression and anxiety, cut off his own ear to stop the voices.Google- Starry, starry night, Vincent Van gogh
This is about Vincent Van Gogh. You should watch the Doctor Who episode where the Doctor takes VVG to future to try and help his soul. Beautiful. I know it’s only Doctor Who but the acting is superb in the scene.
One of the most underrated songs of all time. If not one the most beautiful and haunting ever
The opening line "starry, starry night" refers to a very famous painting by vincen van gogh called, well... "Starry Night" of course. The song is about this famous painter's suffering as you know by now probably. The picture, I have re-print in my bedroom, is one of the most beautiful painting he made imo.
Vincent Van Gogh is my favorite artist. He suffered his entire life with mental health issues. One of his most famous paintings, Starry Night, was painted while he was in an asylum. He was allowed out on the grounds during the day but had to be locked in his room at night. This is what he imagined the night sky looked like during this time. Great reaction
You should check out some of Van Gough's paintings, and then all of the lyrics will make sense - Starry Starring Night refers to Van Gough's painting called Starry Night, and lyrics "the swirling clouds in violet haze" describe it to a tee. Likewise "the morning fields of amber grain" refers to his painting called Wheatfield with Crows; and "the weathered faces lined in pain" could refer to his own self-portraits that he did, or the painting called The Potato Eaters.
Vincent Van Gogh - greatest impressionist artist ever. Tortured soul who cut his ear off.
Goosebumps every time I hear this song.
BP, 50+ years later, Don performed this with Home Free and he still is "killing softly with his words". I dreamed for a couple of yearsvthat Home Free did this song. My hubby is Vincent and he too is a painter!
th-cam.com/video/oxHnRfhDmrk/w-d-xo.html. The lyric video. Makes it twice as moving.
The dichotomy within this song is mesmerizing............. Can a song possibly be written any more tragically beautiful? I think not. I tear up every time I see this performance (I'm 67 years old). When an artist can move you to such emotion, they have hit an apex of achievement. Congratulations Don Mclean for what you left us (Especially this song and American Pie) and especially for what you left for Vincent Van Gough. DM is 78 years old and still going. Thank you for your insightful reaction.
growing up in the 70s We all knew who he was singing about. I've heard this song 100s of times & not til BP commented did I get chills. What a perspective coming from one who listened for the first time.
The story of Vincent Van Gogh. A painter from the far past. Don McClean uses words like Vincent used paint!
I agree with your assessment and I just today realized by the various reaction videos that it was about Vincent Van Gogh...I NEVER New and I grew up listening to this. OMG...what a realization for me...Thank you.
Some day when your daughters are old enough it would be such a gift to take them to the Van Gogh museum in Amsterdam.
Love this song, even though it makes me cry everytime.
When I first heard this song I did not know it was about the artist Vincent Van Gogh. At the time some one in my class at school had passed away from suicide. This song touched me to my core. The person I knew was a beautiful person inside and out. It hurt several of us that they felt so lonely, when they were loved so much. 😢
AND THAT DETAIL WAS THE PAINTING ROBERT! ( STARRY STARRY NIGHT ) 😊YOU COULD LISTEN TO THIS DOZENS OF TIMES AND IT'LL HIT YOU HARD ROBERT! 💯R.I.P ☹VINCENT!
This song and ‘At Seventeen’ by Janis Ian always made me cry. They’re both so beautiful and deep.
Totally agree
I was 7 when this came out. I didn’t understand it; I just knew how the words and music moved me somehow. I had the same emotions in my college art history class looking at Van Gogh’s paintings and I finally understood.
Vincent died from suicide 1890 one of the greatest artists of all time
I'm a painter, too. This song's story hurts me to my soul and makes me cry every time I hear it! 😰😰😭😭😭😭💖💖💖💖
This sad song is about the Dutch artist Vincent van Gogh who painted Starry Night in 1889 looking out the window of his room in a Sanitarium (mental hospital) after having cut off one of his ears. He committed suicide the following year at 37 years of age. He lived a difficult life but left behind hundreds of paintings. Starry Night is at MOMA (Museum of Modern Art) in NYC. Other paintings at the National Gallery of Art in Wash DC and of course in various museums in Europe.
I find most younger people don't know about historical history of people or places. Linen land means a blank art canvas .
Van Gogh is BY FAR my favorite painter, and this song NEVER FAILS to make me cry!!
All of the descriptive scenes he's referring to are of Van Gogh's artworks.
Every time i hear this song, i think of my Dad. "Perhaps they'll listen now"
Don Mclean. An artist writing about an artist.
One of the greatest writers to ever live.
"He's painting this beautiful picture" - Ironic and appropriate considering the subject matter. Even you not knowing what it's about your soul KNEW what it was about... Love you BP!
Vincent Van Gogh. Mental illness troubled his life. Famous painting was Starry Nights.
Vincent Van Gogh, the painter of "Starry Night"
😊
😂 I had never heard of this song, but the opening lines gave it away immediately 🤣
What is amazing about this song is that when he is not directly talking about Van Gogh he is describing his paintings.
BP ~ PLEASE tell us how you feel and what you think, knowing now that this was about Vincent Van Gogh. I know I'm not the only one who wants to know. Don't feel too bad though. I'm 67 and didn't know it was about him until I started watching reaction videos a few years ago!!!
EDIT: BTW Kirk Douglas did a Superb movie on Vincent Van Gogh in 1956, directed by Vincente Minnelli, called Lust For Life - watch for it on TCM.
This song's about the famous Dutch painter Vincent Van Gogh 1853 - 1890 who had mental issues, but one of the greatest artists of all time. There's an episode of Doctor Who about Van Gogh, and it's one of the most moving tributes to Vincent. When he sings starry, starry night is a reference to one of Van Gogh's most famous paintings called Starry Night.
a couple of things... first of all, i'm sure that you figured out by now that the song is about vincent van gough (NOW, go back and listen a few more times). i would encourage you to do some quick research into vincent's life and his works of art, many of which you are familiar with, but maybe you didn't know ("perhaps they'll listen now"). 2nd, to say that mcclean is a good lyricist would be an understatement. i would rather say that the man is a poet who plays a little guitar. if you haven't done "american pie" yet, it is an absolute MUST. finally, i want to say that by watching this reaction, i now know that you are indeed watching for the first time, without doing research or listening ahead of time. that makes me want to watch you more than anything. THAT is why we tune in. the experience for US, is getting the very first reaction to music and songs that we grew up with and that mean so much to us. thank you VERY MUCH for that. "REAL" is your gift to your audience. God Bless, and PLEASE keep it up. you have become my favorite daily pastime
It is about Vincent van Gogh's life and death....Stary Night is one of Van Gogh's paintings....it is a beautiful song
Vincent Def. Had his demons but a prolific artist... the van Gogh museum in Amsterdam is my favorite museum...
The clues are in the lyrics, "artist," landscapes, painter...!! lol
I think I still have the vinyl...got search the house...thanks BP ...sometimes I feel the same way as Vincent, people don't see the what's around them, the beauty...my Uncle gave us this record in early 70s ....we were headed to Alaska :p Its another tear jerker :'( Gracias a Dio who gave us everything, use it people
Its so strange to see someone not know about this song and Vincet but years are flying by and its getting to another generation from channels like this ❤
Such a deep song, thank you for reacting. No matter if the song was written about Vincent Van Gogh or not, it's relatable to anyone dealing with mental illness themselves or someone they love. I do agree, watch the lyric version with Vincent's painting as well, hits even deeper.
This song is a masterpiece.
so who's gonna tell him?
Lol... everyone who took art class in highschool.
I find it interesting on how people who’ve lead sheltered lives don’t always pick up on things. Simply because I loved American Pie after first hearing it. I got a copy of Don McLean’s best of (as I always did with artists when I loved one of their songs) to hear what else he’d done. And by listening to the lyrics I somehow knew the song was about Vincent Van Gough. It probably didn’t sink in from the first listen. (It was so long ago I can’t remember). But it did flick that switch. And I always loved this song.
You are the first person I've seen who understood where the song was headed. I'm impressed!
Wonderful reaction, BP. It was and still is, one of my favorite songs. I had a print of Van Gogh’s Sunflowers hanging on my wall all thru junior and senior high school. A tortured genius who left incredible beauty behind for us all.
This songs always gets me into tears. I remember standing in front of Vincent´s paintings at The Van-Gogh-Museum in Amsterdam and these lyrics came to my mind. I couldn´t help but cry and I didn´t care about the other people around me. Now, if you really want to know what kind of person Vincent van Gogh was try to get a copy of the letters he wrote to his two-years younger brother Theo.
I don’t know if it’s been mentioned, but there’s a video of the studio version, with Van Gogh paintings, for the visuals.
He's talking Van Gough 's life and paintings. Soo sad and beautiful.
I wish you would've looked up to see who Vincent was.
I never knew until the Van Gogh exhibit came to Tampa, saw it twice.
Again, just like American Pie, Don's lyrics have multiple meanings! Yes, the song is mainly about Vincent Van Gogh BUT at the same time it is acknowledging the mental heath crisis that plagues all 1st world countries like no other song can do! You have to remember, there is NOTHING truly new in the struggles of life, politics, love, hate, and misunderstanding. You just have to look at the political crisis now vs where the world was at the turn of the 20th century 100 to 120 yrs ago, it is virtually the same crises and issues plaguing our country!! Life always seems to repeat itself over and over!!
This song, like American Pie, is timeless and will probably be as relevant 100, 200, 300 years in the future as when written and as when lived by Van Gogh!!
Starry Starry Night........a very famous Vincent Van Gogh painting.....
Each new line of the song describes one of Vincent's masterful paintings.
Fun fact this was Tupac’s favorite song and was played in the hospital right before he died
listen carefully. from the first word, it is about Vincent Van gogh