Don McLean – Vincent ( Starry, Starry Night)

About the song

“Vincent,” a poignant tribute by Don McLean, stands as one of the most evocative and enduring songs from the early 1970s. Released in 1971 as part of McLean’s acclaimed *American Pie* album, this track is often mistakenly referred to by its opening line, “Starry, Starry Night,” a direct homage to Vincent van Gogh’s iconic 1889 painting, *The Starry Night*.

The song’s inception is rooted in McLean’s deep admiration for Van Gogh, which was sparked by a biography he read about the artist. In a moment of inspiration, McLean crafted the lyrics while reflecting on Van Gogh’s life and struggles, expressing a profound empathy for the painter’s enduring legacy. McLean’s composition was driven by a desire to shed light on Van Gogh’s struggles, not merely label him as ‘crazy,’ but rather as a man tormented by mental illness and personal hardship.

Musically, “Vincent” is characterized by its delicate arrangement, featuring guitar, accordion, marimba, and violin. This instrumentation complements McLean’s somber yet soothing vocals, creating a melody that has been widely praised for its emotional depth and lyrical beauty. The song achieved notable success, topping the UK Singles Chart for two weeks and reaching No. 12 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100. It also made a significant impact on the Easy Listening charts in the U.S., peaking at No. 2.

The critical reception of “Vincent” has been largely favorable, with many praising its lyrical sensitivity and the way it encapsulates Van Gogh’s tragic yet inspiring story. The Telegraph highlighted the song’s bittersweet chord progressions and emotional resonance, while Record World lauded its artistic portrayal of Van Gogh’s life. McLean’s heartfelt performance has been described as particularly poignant, resonating with listeners across generations.

Over the years, “Vincent” has inspired numerous covers and renditions, reflecting its continued relevance and emotional impact. Notable artists such as Julio Iglesias, Josh Groban, and Ellie Goulding have each put their own spin on the song, demonstrating its versatility and enduring appeal. The song has also been featured in various media, including the film *Loving Vincent*, which pays tribute to the artist through animation.

In 2020, the original handwritten lyrics of “Vincent” were auctioned for $1.5 million, underscoring the song’s cultural significance and McLean’s lasting influence. As an evocative musical homage to one of history’s greatest artists, “Vincent” remains a powerful testament to the intersection of art and music, celebrating Van Gogh’s enduring impact through the universal language of song.

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