Don mclean – Vincent (1971)

About the song

Let’s take a poignant journey into the world of art and emotion with “Vincent” by Don McLean. This hauntingly beautiful ballad, also known as “Starry Starry Night,” pays tribute to the legendary artist Vincent van Gogh and his tumultuous life. Written by Don McLean himself, “Vincent” was featured on his 1971 album titled “American Pie.”

Don McLean, an acclaimed singer-songwriter, has a gift for storytelling through music, and “Vincent” is a prime example of his lyrical prowess. The song’s heartfelt lyrics and gentle melody have resonated with audiences worldwide, earning McLean widespread praise and recognition.

“Vincent” holds a special place in music history, having reached number 12 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Its poignant tribute to van Gogh’s struggles and artistic genius struck a chord with listeners, cementing McLean’s status as a masterful songwriter.

Through “Vincent,” McLean captures the essence of van Gogh’s iconic painting “Starry Night” and delves into the artist’s inner turmoil and creative brilliance. The song serves as a timeless reminder of the power of art to inspire and move us.

Whether you’re a fan of Don McLean’s heartfelt ballads or an admirer of van Gogh’s masterpieces, “Vincent” is sure to leave a lasting impression. So, sit back, close your eyes, and let the evocative melodies of “Vincent” transport you to a world of beauty and imagination.

Video

Lyrics

Starry starry night
paint your palette blue and grey
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

And 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

And now I understand
what you tried to say to me
how you suffered for your sanity
how you tried to set them free
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 have 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 the world and can’t forget
Like the stranger that you’ve met
the ragged men in ragged clothes
the silver thorn of bloddy rose
lie crushed and broken
on the virgin snow

And now I think I know
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’re not listening still
perhaps they never will