Don McLean - Vincent | The Story Behind The Song | Top 2000: The Untold Stories

The story behind the song 'Vincent' by Don McLean, a song inspired by the painting 'The Starry Night' from Vincent van Gogh. A documentary by Top 2000: The Untold Stories. Interview from 2011.

[@clydeb7713]

One of the most beautiful songs ever written

[@vincentlem2534]

Agreed!

[@glennward5898]

Here is a little more of the history of Van Gough. kzbin.info/www/bejne/nmbcm5uMjZ2mn8U

[@jamespennington9719]

You know! I always thought the same! Great comment!

[@brianmucha6426]

Wow, I was about to say exactly that in a post! Kindred souls brother!

[@MillieonaVespa]

Yes indeed beautiful.....

[@TheHumbuckerboy]

I almost despair at the realisation that no one seems to be remotely capable of writing a song that even approaches the genius of this timeless classic these days !

[@sobrevida157]

TheHumbuckerboy Don’t despair! There are lots of amazing songs being written today. And I know that for every one that I find, there are many more out there. Keep looking for the gold.

[@sobrevida157]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/mYmll6ynf7ase9E Here's one guy, Mike Mangione from Milwaukee....

[@sobrevida157]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/iHeZY4yLrb-aiMU and here's Dar Williams. . .

[@sobrevida157]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y6SuYqVvhtqKq7c and the last one (but oh so many more are out there), promise.....Michael McDermott from Chicago.

[@chrisshirley4877]

Humbucker Boy, as you and I both know, this song is perfection. Please don't despair that nobody can top perfection. I agree with you entirely, but aren't we lucky to have had Don McLean bless us with this timeless masterpiece?

[@cjlloyd53]

In my humble opinion, Don McLean is one of the best lyricists ever. The words in his songs are pure poetry. Beautiful.

[@charliekucharski2079]

You're right. This song itself is a great work of art. His meter and rhyming are exquisite in this one not to mention his descriptive writing. Great melody also.

[@karllansing7927]

its a fact.

[@98-carlmarkmarak22]

you can just read lyrics and already feel how deep they are without listening to the song

[@leohoogeweg]

'This world was never meant for one as beautiful as you' is one of the most striking, emotional sentences ever written in a song... it's a sentence that fits so many sad moments in the lifes of people. Don McLean is a real musician godfather.

[@andrewm2399]

You are easily impressed. Wanna buy some magic beans?

[@zogzog1063]

The line should have been 'This world was ALWAYS meant for one as beautiful as you'. You would not say of Beethoven or Shakespeare that the world was not meant for them. The tragedy is not that he killed himself when the world was not meant for him. The tragedy is that he should have lived, not only for himself but for YOU. And me. And everyone else! ie the world. In fact we have proved it by regretting his death. A pity really because it is an otherwise perfect song.

[@Traivlin]

​@@zogzog1063 I felt that the world was never meant for him, as in his life didn't get better because he did what he wanted to do, rather it was HE that was always meant for the world. "... beautiful as you" implies that Vincent is more beautiful than the world. When you compare something to the world and deem it higher, it has little to gain from the world. I think what McLean tries to say is that, rather than Vincent shouldn't even have walked the Earth, if anything, Vincent was here for us, that he was perfect without the need for recognition during his life.

[@worschtee1]

@@zogzog1063 "This world was NEVER meant..." could also be interpreted as the world was not worthy enough for that beautiful/special person.

[@AngriestAmerican]

Killing my Softly was written about Don

[@PrinceCharmingsMom2930]

We played this song at my 19 year old son's funeral (thumbnail pic). From the time he was little he loved Van Goh's Starry night. When he died by suicide after he found out his girlfriend was cheating on him, it felt very fitting for such a deep young man.

[@LifeInRELOADED]

Incredible story - so sincerely sorry for the loss of your adored son. XO

[@Get7Out7ofthe7Boat]

Sad you lost your loved one so young. My condolences to you.

[@patrickbeintema9184]

Heartbreaking, but so glad we can all find comfort in songs and lyrics like this. Whatever reason or situation. Sending out my love to you!

[@2degucitas]

Sorry for your loss

[@stevens5541]

Idiots

[@MelesaEFary]

Do you remember, "Strumming my fate with his fingers" "Telling my life with his words.". "Killing me softly with his song." Roberta Flack was writing about an unknown singer who was supposed to be Don McClean. "I heard he sang a good song, I heard he had a line....and so I came see him and listen to him live. And there, he was a young boy, a stranger to my eyes." A beautiful description of how a young Don had touched her heart and soul and "singing her life with his words.". Don, you are very very specia!l

[@davegangapersad2338]

It was Lori Lieberman, not Roberta Flack.

[@avidadolares]

Yeah, Roberta Flack didnt write "Killing Me Softly", she just sang it.

[@chasleask8533]

I think it was Ewen Mcoll.

[@mariacastillo5625]

Didnt know this. Very cool. Thanks for sharing. 👍

[@ladypearl9134]

It was definitely Lori Lieberman who wrote the song but it was stolen from her. Don McLean has even acknowledged the song as Lori's.

[@rogerdale5451]

The song brings me to tears every time...A tragic life. "I don't MAKE music, I AM music"...

[@rexpimplemyer3839]

"Vincent" Is a tragic song, though not nearly so tragic as "The Grave", a few songs later.

[@brianmucha6426]

So tragic because most people at the time Van Gogh was alive had no idea how beautiful, even if flawed, the man was. I'm guessing his brother Theo may have, and tried to help him, but it must not have been an easy thing.

[@jamespennington9719]

Always had a connection to Don McLean's songs! Easier to understand why after listening to this interview! A true artist he is! Has my admiration!

[@DJDanceClassic]

he is not only music but ARROGANT as well

[@bartobruintjes7056]

@@DJDanceClassic And you are a sociopath.

[@519djw6]

*I would like to take this opportunity to leave a memorial tribute to a much later Dutch artist, who also took his life at a young age, since I don't think anyone is ever going to make a video about him: He was the puppeteer Jan de Noord (1945-1983). Jan was a good friend of mine. Requiescat in pace, Jan de Noord and Vincent van Gogh.*

[@mikeyates7931]

At the very least , he was blessed to have you ; true friends are quite rare May he rest in peace 🙏 ✝️ 🙏

[@519djw6]

@@mikeyates7931 Thank you for the message. Best Wishes.

[@mikeyates7931]

@@519djw6 you're quite welcome , my friend - God bless

[@vickiross1025]

😢

[@Yorkshirelass727]

Teary teary night, My Father, a survivor of Bombing of Berlin WW2, aged 8, despair, tortured mind, of the atrocities the impression of relentless violence, bodies blown into pieces, covered my Father, shock numb and alone, he survived by sheer determination. Never recovered, his soul, broken into million fragments, seemingly would never see again happiness love belonging and acceptance in this life of A German child, he resonated deeply, meaning and expression of his tightly guarded heart. Would cry with intense relief, of the lyrics, and music that is both haunting, reflective, and beautiful, as was he. I spoke from afar, has his last minutes on this earth, singing this song, tears of knowing he understand, I’m going darling, be happy for me now, only way I can express my pain and loss, yet comforting, that i understood his soul❤

[@kelcritcarroll]

I felt the heartache he had when reading this…it was in my stomach. As a heat passed thru my body…im an empath and u portrayed your grandpa wonderfully..his painful existence finally over when relieving death washed over him….the kindest people most often are the ones who truly suffer the most.

[@tiffsaver]

In my opinion, Don McLean is one of of the most underrated song writers in history, his songs and lyrics so inspired that they will only become recognized for the classics they are in the fullness of time. From "American Pie" to "And I Love You So," even great singers as Roberta Flack sang songs like "Killing Me Softly With His Song" for him, a virtual love letter to the brilliance of his music and song. The human body ages, then dies. But rest assured, the brilliance of Don McLean will last through the ages.

[@Stillnapie]

Too bad he was a wife beater.....

[@tiffsaver]

@@Stillnapie What does that have to do with his MUSIC, you pathetic moron??

[@Stillnapie]

@@tiffsaver So you must be a spouse abuser too huh?? Pathetic piece of shit....

[@Stillnapie]

@unfortunate son Not really, not when they are physically abusive. I can overlook a lot of things but beating your wife is not one of them. Maybe it's ok with you, so be it. I have different standards.

[@Stillnapie]

@Jordan - Beating your wife is not a "flaw".... sorry....

[@luisgomez3936]

Don McLean mirrors the artistry of Van Gogh by beautifully painting his song with the marriage of melody and poetry to emotionally bring out a feeling about this troubled artist. I find this artist to touch our souls with his music just as clearly as Van Gogh touches us with his paintings!

[@garywhitt98]

Yes. That’s it.

[@flockyh3549]

​@@garywhitt98 Aber wer weiß, vielleicht war der Maler gar kein unruhiger Künstler, sondern in sich gekehrt und, allein und auf jeden Fall unverstanden.

[@splodge5714]

I visited Auvers sur Oise in France where Vincent painted the church, went to the room where he died and the cemetry where he and his brother Theo are buried. I played this song in my car whilst there. It was very moving, thank you Don McLean for such beautiful words in memory of a wonderful artist. 🎼🎨

[@TimD.Morand]

Don McLean on artists: "You gotta suffer. You gotta seperate yourself from the rest of people, too. You can't be a social, regular guy. You're not regular." Another timeless song brought (back) to life by Top 2000.

[@scorpiorising3741]

You don't need to suffer to be an artist. You can immerse yourself in love and produce the most beautiful art known to the world. You probably think you have to shoot heroin to play jazz as well. Sorry Don but but your ego is getting the better of you. If you want to spend your life suffering go ahead. I'm going to thrive. Most people know him for American Pie. That's it. So a lifetime of "suffering" for one song. Haha

[@Morten_Nielsen1979]

@@scorpiorising3741 Great point!

[@edbrown4218]

Well, Paul McCartney wrote many great songs and is a great musician and I don't see him suffering all that much. But of course his partner John Lennon was an angry young man who felt pain for his art and also wrote great songs. So I think you can be either.

[@edbrown4218]

@Benny Hill he still writes songs. You can see them on KZbin if you like. It's just that nobody wants to hear the new ones. They want to hear Magical Mystery Tour and Blackbird and Eleanor Rigby and Sergeant Pepper and Let It Be and Hey Jude, etc

[@MeowingAtTheMoon]

@@scorpiorising3741 You haven't listened very well; He's saying the exact opposite; If you drown yourself in drugs, painkillers, anti-depressants, if you try and hide the suffering, you don't feel the pain, you can't be an artist if you're not prepared to face pain and suffering. I agree with that notion. Really big valuable art did not come from those who were on drugs or those who have it easy and whose lives are all fine and dandy. Or from those with too much money. Notice how bad the true artists are with money. Those who write the best songs, composed the best melodies, paint the best paintings, they were all feeling their pain.

[@stepinfetchit9394]

I will never not love this beautiful piece of art. It will reside in my soul forever. Thank you, Don and Vincent.

[@Alleykattt]

To me, this is the most beautiful song ever written. Thank you Don.

[@Brandespada]

I would put it among the 10 most beautiful songs ever written.

[@RizkiAnjani]

First time I listened to this song, my eyes watered.

[@PaintedCavern]

Happens to me everytime.

[@patrickbeintema9184]

That's what this song is meant to do :)

[@thechumpsbeendumped.7797]

Ricardo Montana Same here 😢

[@kathyg.195]

Rizki Anjani Me too. 😔

[@VinceScaglione]

@@thechumpsbeendumped.7797 here

[@crusheverything4449]

The entire American Pie LP is a masterpiece! In addition to this song, I particularly love Empty Chairs. Don McLean is a true songwriting genius.

[@rtfan1236]

Crush Everything I only own a greatest hits album for Don McLean, so I only know of the few songs on that. I read your comment and decided to check out Empty Chairs. And let me thank you immensely for that. That was a beautiful song I probably would’ve never heard of without the help of your comment!

[@747-pilot]

He is a genius and a living legend!!!

[@khshayarxha]

I so adore empty chairs. A friend with schizophrenia used to sing it with me in one of his luscid moments.

[@clydeb7713]

@@rtfan1236 Ironically, I had just listened to Empty Chairs right before I heard the news of the 9/11 tragedy If you play that song, with the images of the despair and devastation of that event, it becomes embedded in your mind forever, like it did mine

[@worschtee1]

@@rtfan1236 Check out his song "Everybody loves me, baby" Very similar to "American Pie" in that he's jammed a million words into a very upbeat and catchy tune 😁

[@SpaceCattttt]

Don has one of the kindest and most sincere-sounding voices out there. You believe him. He's a medieval bard for our time.

[@c.s.m.k5737]

"He's a medieval bard for our time", well described!

[@dennisjohndreher7258]

I get chills Everytime I hear this song. Like Simon and Garfunkel wrote "Bridge over troubled water" these two songs are so magical you have to wonder where they come from.

[@richardsteiner1729]

My same thoughts and feelings exactly.

[@andrewd7586]

I saw Don with a mate here in Melbourne, Australia in the late 80’s. He played at the Hilton On The Park for memory. Intimate crowd of I think around 300. Just an amazing singer & a wonderful night. This song just stopped everyone from breathing. 👏🏼

[@Daysleeper1000]

Love this song, and Don describes the social style of an introverted intuitive empath.

[@cynthiaahern9081]

Exactly!

[@snowyskylar8821]

Me

[@mohammedcohen]

I heard this for the first time while riding in a VW bus after chow on a cold February night on the roads outside Storck Barracks, in Illesheim, Germany. My bud Mac had the VW while his GF was visiting Moscow and he told me - "Let's go for a ride..." I'd only been in Gernmany for three months and it was good to get out and 'see' the area at night...he put McLean's cassette into the player - one of the few VWs to have one and said - "Ya gotta listen to this one...listen to the words..." Now every time I hear this song, it takes me back to that VW bus on the dark roads around Illesheim...and the best damn time of my life...I'm 69...

[@stevegilette9606]

So many of us grew up and found ourselves in Germany. I did, it was the late 80's in Berlin. I was young, the girls were beautiful and the wall was about to fall. In fact it did fall before I left. Every guy I know left that city a changed person. Partly because of age but mostly because of the land and the people.

[@hang-sangitch]

Great story 😊

[@TheHumbuckerboy]

Yes, wonderful lyrics for sure , perfection really. Great tunes and memories often tend to go hand in hand in my experience : )

[@mohammedcohen]

@@TheHumbuckerboy ..most of my memories of tunes/lyrics seem to have their roots in the time I spent in the Army and i can see in my minds eye exactlky whee I was at the time...If I was in a GP small tent at the time (Horse With No Name' by America and 'Heart of Gold' by Neil Young - I can still smell that musty/mildew odor inside the tent...

[@TheHumbuckerboy]

Yes, examples of how music has the power to keep our memories powerfully vivid.

[@npg68]

Everything just came together perfectly for this song.

[@murraywestenskow2896]

There's a small club of "perfect songs," maybe ten in all, and Vincent is definitely a perfect song.

[@josephlove4895]

. uh ni

[@patrickbeintema9184]

The ways Don McLean explained this song, makes me like this song ever better. Just stunning!

[@Inthelandofmakebelive]

This is still a beautiful song all these years later it will never get old

[@SavoirRare]

Don McClean and Harry Chapin are 2 of the most underrated singer/songwriters of the last 50 years. Take a look at both of their discographies and see how many albums each has put out. The fact that they haven't been more recognized publicly is a travesty.

[@KJ-nd6jl]

Savoir Rare Agree but there is also a contemporary musician,Mike Rosenberg( or Passenger) that is even more talented(and I love both Chapin and McLean) and seems to be falling into that area of being under appreciated and underrated. It’s a shame and if you haven’t heard Passengers music beyond Let Her go give it a listen

[@murraywestenskow2896]

A Better Place to Be... is almost as good as Vincent. But Vincent pulls a deep ethereal emotion from me every time I hear it - as if I too - am not meant for this world.

[@KJ-nd6jl]

Murray westenskow Both great songs but you just reminded me of another great Chapin song “Mail Order Annie” that with A Better place to be are my favorites of his

[@SpaceCattttt]

Don had at least 2 hits that were and are more famous and successful than most other artists' entire career. American Pie was selected for preservation in the National Recording Registry. A rare honor.

[@realmofthesenses]

In my mind Don McLean is (was) hugely recognised and appreciated all over the world. He still is. His music can still be heard, other artists cover his songs ....

[@kim40141]

Don McLean caught every aspect of Van Gough personally and his art. Most beautiful song.

[@albertomartinez2479]

I attended 1998 Van Gogh exhibit Washington DC. Van Gogh was so much more than an artist. Viewing his paintings I could sense Vincent's Soul. Vincent's humanity. Vincent's Love. Twenty years later I can still sense the awe I felt that day. Don's composition captures this feeling perfectly.

[@marcuswilson3485]

ALberto Martinez he was also totally batshit bonkers.....and ginger!

[@JohnnyArtPavlou]

Banjo Marky, I think he was only half bonkers.

[@williamcordier1201]

There is nothing like seeing the originals in person. They do not translate to photograph or video well. I was not a fan until I saw the originals. I was in awe afterwards.

[@splodge5714]

134 years later and millions of people all around the World still gain great joy looking at the pictures this wonderful artist left us.😊

[@charliekucharski2079]

Very insightful. I too would love to see a Van Gogh exhibition.

[@beats2476]

I never realized that this was about Van Gogh until last year. Sad since I'm very old. But when I reading the lyrics on You tube it dawned on me. Thank you for teaching me something I should have know. I actually started crying when I understood.

[@justmadeit2]

Greetings everyone from me here in Manchester, England, i just want to say what a classic this is. I watched a live version he did in the early 70s the other day on here, absolutely amazing, just one man, his guitar and a voice that touches people

[@Kv-pk2st]

I think I was about 9 years old when I first heard Vincent. Sent to chill through me then, now many many years later as an old man it still sends chills through me now

[@briane5706]

This song is perfect. The lyrics uses different shades of colour to paint a picture and the music is just so moving.

[@yellowcactusproductions]

Yeah it realy feels like your looking at one of Van Gogh’s paintings

[@charlie-obrien]

If you play it on guitar or piano (the only instruments I know) you understand that Don McLean also gives the song's structure it's own shading with the chords the pace and the syncopation which gives the song it's feeling. It is a brilliant moving song that in my opinion is unmatched in popular music.

[@ArcaneWeasel]

One of the most talented song writers of all time. Don McClean should be recognized and celebrated as described!!!

[@viibaudelaire2569]

My favorite song ever.. People here in our neighborhood thinks I'm weird by listening and singing this masterpiece, but this is the most beautiful song ever.

[@AJCsr]

Having learned of Vincent's life, and struggles, and having lived with my own struggles of addiction, this song touched my sole in a way that would bring me to tears ! I have always loved this song and it will always remain one of my favorites. Thank you Don, for sharing it with us !

[@bobgonzalez1198]

Don McLean is one of the best lyricists of our times.

[@lyleswann6296]

Such a beautiful piece of poetry. Encapsulates a whole spectrum of emotions. My mother can never listen to it just once and I have inherited that habit. Don McLean is truly one of the great songwriters, only a poet of his caliber could channel an artist like Vincent Van Gogh's heart, mind, and soul.

[@chichi6796]

This is just about my most absolute favorite song - ever.

[@K.Truman]

Vincent is a spirit that enters some from time to time. ❤

[@aleksandarmitic54]

This turns me back to the early 70"s when I was a schoolboy in Serbia. There was not much of pop music, especially from abroad, but I can clearly recall that fascination when I saw the footage from Don McLean's concert on black and white TV set. Don is definitely one of first musicians that formed my taste for music. I am glad that he is still looking good.

[@sharkyfish3492]

WOW...his words hit home, We are all artist, we all must feel pain and act on it. Don you touched us, as much as Vincent did

[@TorToroPorco]

When I visited the Van Gogh museum in Amsterdam it was inevitable that this song began to play in my head. And when it did it was impossible not to be a little teary eyed. Suffering for your art is such sweet sorrow.

[@susancorgi]

“...but I could have told you vincent this world was never meant for one as beautiful as you” Most beautiful lyric! Vincent himself would have tear up 🥲

[@josephcuriale2293]

This was brilliant. He spoke my experience as a composer when he discussed the pain involved in art. That's why I chose to bear the pains of life instead of numbing it. Thank you for this video.

[@bruceparks3124]

Joseph, when Don McLean talked about the pain involved in art, he was so right. But I had never really thought about it before. I have seen some of the pain for my art, but I didn't choose the pain after reviewing other options, I chose the pain because I had to. I think maybe you are the same way.

[@josephcuriale2293]

Bruce Parks thank you very much for your thoughtful reply.

[@EphemeralProductions]

Something all of us artists of any type can relate to

[@rexsolomon6325]

If you did not know, the song 'Killing me softly' was about Don McLean.

[@Top2000agogo]

Yeah, we actually also have a Top 2000 a Gogo video about Lori Lieberman where she tells this story. It's not online yet, but will come in the next few months!

[@felymarquez3464]

Didn’t know until today, thank you.

[@geofffikar3417]

That song was one hell of a tribute to one great artist from another great artist.

[@ramon_Huft]

The way he describes everything in this video does not only make the song even more beautiful, it also made me respect don mclean as a person so much more, I just love how much wisdom is in that guy...

[@rightuppercut1426]

His lyrics to this beautiful song are a poem in itself. Still a very moving song after all these years. A true masterpiece.

[@JohnNiemsMusic]

PAIN is ART! Exactly Don! You are a true genius!

[@richalderson6069]

I love his philosophy about an artist not being a regular guy. No-one gets into an artist cause they are like everybody else and if they do then it aint' art it's mundane.

[@sayaka8587]

Don McLean's finest song. I cannot listen to this without getting tears in my eyes. Even now after so many years. Beautiful 😊😇🥰

[@Brandespada]

Same here... every time I get tears in my eyes.

[@hiccups55]

i admire Don Mclean. he is an artist just like Van Gogh.

[@darkkiss7247]

One of the best song writers ever. Such a beautiful song.

[@lostinfens]

Went to Don's (I think) first UK tour at Manchester's "Hard Rock" venue in 73. Don was quite nervous & when he sang "And I love you so" the audience was silent for what seemed a long time, Don stepped back from the mic looking anxious until a lone voice cut through the silence with a simple "right on", & then a wild applause broke out. The silence was just the effect the song had, it was that good. You had to be there, a time it was.

[@debraandreason6865]

Beautiful comment. 💙

[@lostinfens]

@@debraandreason6865 Thank you, it was a moment that will live with me forever.

[@davidramirez4810]

What a fabulous and profound interview. Don is an artist and musician at his very core.

[@timhallas4275]

The significance of the painting "Starry Night" is that the night sky is not dominated by blackness, and dotted with faint points of light, as we see it with our eyes,, but dominated by the fact that there is a whole universe out there beyond the limits of our eye, but not our mind. Vincent saw the universe, not as an observer, but as part of it. The suffering body forces the mind to reach beyond the senses for meaning. Vincent lead me there.

[@user-vw6xp5nl6t]

Well said. Thanks for sharing

[@followthesun2115]

"The suffering body forces the mind to reach beyond the senses for meaning." This sentence is incredibly insightful and poignant. Wow.

[@lucaswallo8127]

Ah

[@timhallas4275]

@@user-vw6xp5nl6t thank you my friend

[@Obsurdious]

The only, let me repeat this, the only musician that I have ever listen to, and actually felt a greater sense of wonder about myself and others, was Don McLean. Absolutely wondrous.

[@flowergrowersmith449]

Really, a beautiful poem..

[@lionheartroar3104]

One of the most beautiful tributes to anyone.

[@marthacannizzo4791]

Great interview. What beautiful souls, Don & Vincent❤

[@misterpeppercorn3078]

"Vincent" is a masterpiece as are the paintings of Van Gogh. If Don only had written this one song it would have been enough. One of the greatest compositions of all time. Blessings to Don McLean. May he always be remembered in musical history.

[@ericwilliamson9516]

Don is a master and one of the greatest writers, performers, and artists. One of a kind! Thanks for stopping by my friend.

[@donmclean8257]

Hi there Thanks for your love and support that has brought me this far, it has been a hard time for me going through this but your love and support keeps me going and standing strong in this difficult times. I do read your heartwarming comments and I truly appreciate all you’ve done for me throughout the years. It’s a season of love😍❤️❤️ for me and so I decided to put a smile on the faces of my fans by going through my KZbin channel and checking out on my fans, so I can get to communicate with my fans better through discussion of depth and humor listening to o and criticism of my career.💞💞🙏💖💖

[@cynthiajohnson9412]

"You can't be an artist if you're on drugs." -Don McLean. You can't fully appreciate art if you are on drugs either. Which is probably why we live in such a graceless age.

[@annil774]

That's the truth!

[@nana-rs8en]

Quite true but it depends on the drug or substance. Some enhance, others inhibit everything. Don McLean said in the interview "artists today, they're on drugs, they're on prozac" which is, by design, an inhibitor and an almost perfect example of a bad drug. Then look at the Hippie movement and all the great and various arts and artists created and enveloped by it.

[@11matt11]

The most underrated song in the English language. Just stunning in its beauty, but so many young people have no idea about it.

[@TTTzzzz]

I was 12 and I listened to this song with my tiny transistor radio while in bed. It captured all the feelings and pain I had. Thank you Don. And thank you Vincent.

[@MusicbyMrcorbett]

Easily up there with the most beautiful songs ever written.

[@Nimesay1]

Agreed.

[@t.g.v.6955]

When a songwriting is deserving to be called as a trully work of art. Don Mclean is one of them.

[@christinagavin4517]

Thank you Don, your music meant so much to me, but more importantly you brought Vincent to me in such a way I knew he was me & I was him. I named 2 cafe's after him, one called Vincent's Yellow House Cafe' & Gallery ( & it was a "phenonomenom') & the othe other Vincent's Manaia & the first thing the new owners did after purchase was remove his name. I'm so glad I now have more time to paint!

[@lindseywarren44]

My husband of 28 years passed a few years ago. He was an accomplished artist and struggled greatly when he was younger. This was his very favourite song. I hear it & still cry. But I know he's in Heaven and still hears this lovely, lovely song. Music is such solace, isn't it? Bless

[@thomaspick4123]

I watch as many different performances as I can of this wonderful song. Each performance, Don sings it differently. The way he takes a phrase and sings it up, or down. The pauses, all slight variations, but makes the song fresh and new each time. I go on a ride with him on each interpretation. What a great artist. And yes, we are different. Loners. Away from the crowd. But, the depths of our hearts are not shallow.

[@rick381v69]

He's a true American poet. As much as I love Vincent, my favourite Maclean song is Empty Chairs, wow!

[@EphemeralProductions]

I think the song is the most apt and beautiful tribute to Vincent that there could ever be

[@evandegenfelder4554]

I was a very young person when this song was first released. When I first heard it, I cried, and couldn't quit crying. Every time since---I cry when I hear it again. I am a painter by profession and this song somehow pierces my soul.

[@psw4763]

His songs always have very deep meaning. Love all his work.

[@wllms984]

“Everyone loves van Gogh.” Yes, now they do!

[@BST-lm4po]

Something about the painting "Starry Night" I always found so deep. Something magical! And this song just adds to the experience.

[@tsdelaney]

Fantastic interview and I love Don McLean's perspective. Just brilliant!

[@rockon416]

This masterpiece is one of the most underrated songs. It did see the lime light briefly but soon forgotten like Vincent himself. I saw your opening performance for Blood Sweat & Tears in RPI, Troy, NY in Oct 1972. Thank you Don.

[@philmstud2k]

This and American Pie have always been some of my most favorite, favorite songs. So great and beautiful, both lyrics and melody.

[@patsmith6867]

I rember "American Pie" being a big hit and not even realizing "Vincent" was by the same guy . It was just a Lovely Song on the Radio that sime people knew ad some did not . However it has become one of my favorite songs . It even caused me to appreciate his Paintings .

[@honeyhearts4844]

McLean's gentleness and understanding of what van Gogh was feeling and going through just drove me to tears while I listened to him explain how he wrote one of the best songs ever written.

[@timallbritton7329]

I hadn't thought much about Don McLean in 40 years, but about a year ago, I downloaded his "Favorites and Rarities" album. 42 songs, and showcases his unreal talent as a songwriter and guitarist (and banjo!). Everything from Top 40 to bluegrass and folk, with a little straight a head rock 'n roll. What a great assemblage of songs by a super-talented artist.

[@chuckmccroskey4864]

This was one of the songs that led me to studying classical guitar. The finger style seemed beyond reach at 20 years of age ( 1976). After studying classical guitar seriously it became a reality.

[@TheCaptainKim]

I just love these Top 2000 a gogo's little documentaries.

[@brendafinnegan3131]

I adore this song, love his music, and loved the Van Gogh exhibit in New Orleans!

[@spudlee1749]

Don Mclean, you brought so many tears to my lonely preteen eyes, i always thought you were my soulmate as i felt you were the only one who understood my heart. It's been more than 40 years, and though now I'm middle aged, when i hear you sing, i am once again that lonely young girl sitting on my bed listening to your record album💗

[@charlie-obrien]

If you play "Vincent" on guitar or piano (the only instruments I know) you understand that Don McLean, besides using beautiful lyrics to shade the emotions of the song also gives the song's structure it's own shading with the chords the pace and the syncopation which gives the song it's feeling. It is a brilliant moving song that in my opinion is unmatched in popular music.

[@marcgiancola8681]

The most beautiful song ever written. period!

[@lindajohnson714]

American Pie is one of my all time favorite albums. I still have the album. Don McLean, I hope you monitor the comments here. You did change the world; more than a little, I’d guess. For me though, you made music a tangible, necessary part of my six years old world with American Pie. Your song is a touchstone. I can be a child again for a few moments every time I hear this song. Thank you!

[@sylviapals1172]

Voor mij heeft dit nummer een herinnering aan mijn lieve moeder geweest. Ik was pas 18 destijds. Verloor mijn lieve moeder door haar eigen keuze. 😢😢😢😢😢😢

[@hardrode3998]

This ... Is the most a song writer can share of the inspiration and gift of talents labour. Thank You .

[@marthadwyer2856]

Vincent found you, someone with the talent to express his life and his dreams

[@jimmylee1776]

This song always brings tears to my eyes when I listen to it. It’s a very sad & emotional song. Don McLean is a genius, in the choice of words & music in this song

[@NoelBarcelona]

Don McLean's music is all about people - about their struggles, about their pain, about their humanity. Vincent captures what van Gogh is - the misunderstood, the eccentric, the beautiful, the visionary, the peculiar, trapped in a world that is judgmental, harsh, and unforgiving to those who are sensed to be different. I never fail to get teary-eyed, and sometimes, to cry, whenever I hear this classic and timeless piece of musical work. It just summarized what Vincent van Gogh has been, and what this genius has contributed to the world of art. Thanks for this. Love from the Philippines.

[@ArchFundy]

As I have grown and matured so too has my appreciation for this song. It is truly a masterpiece.

[@hang-sangitch]

WoW such a great song. His guitar is stunning!

[@mikebaptiste4566]

Colum Nolan when something is missing from a song.....just add the Martin acoustic.All is well after that !!

[@charlesmitchell487]

I love that Van Gogh thought The Starry Night was a failure, but then he thought that he was a failure too, Just goes to show you what a poor judge of his value and his art he was. He never realized how loved they both would become. If you haven't seen the Dr. Who episode about Vincent, I can't recommend it enough - it will leave you with intense tears of joy

[@KellysAdventures305]

"Vincent" changed my life. He taught me that the expression and impression of life is all around us to explore in color and shadow. It tells us what life is. Love, pain, beauty, ugliness and everything in-between in a wordless expression of reality. We only need look and see. Vincent could smell color. See wind. Touch emotion. A language universal and yet unknown. This world was never meant for one as beautiful as he. Now I understand what he tried to say me and how he suffered for his sanity. And how he tried to set them free. Thank you Vincent. Thank you Don McLean.

[@KC-mn2mk]

With your heartfelt expression, you've written your own song. Some of us experience the sadness, rejection and despair that Vincent must have felt. He was rejected by his first love as a young man, and then gave up on love the rest of his life. Yet longing to belong and to be loved, his peers rejected his art. Sometimes being alone is less painful than being with someone. We have to make a conscious choice to take the risk to be loved.

[@elviroyoung5028]

Don is like in the INNERCIRCLE of Spiritual Wisdom , living a reality that is abstract to most but explained very clearly thru words .

[@donmclean8257]

😊😊Hi there Thanks for your love and support that has brought me this far, it has been a hard time for me going through this but your love and support keeps me going and standing strong in this difficult times. I do read your heartwarming comments and I truly appreciate all you’ve done for me throughout the years. It’s a season of love😍❤️❤️ for me and so I decided to put a smile on the faces of my fans by going through my KZbin channel and checking out on my fans, so I can get to communicate with my fans better through discussion of depth and humor listening to o and criticism of my career.💞💞🙏

[@Larry-go8bg]

One of the world greatest artists paying his incredible musical tribute to probably the greatest artists in history. Vincent suffered the classic artists syndrome a tortured but beutiful soul and to my knowledge he couldnt sell his paintings only one four months before his died. Now, Stary Stary Night is said to be worth up to 100million dollars its ironic as he died with very little money the classic artist suffering for his art like Don sais and what a song mindblowing art is food for the soul

[@grmontano5]

I bought a cassette tape to listen to American Pie,came across this song on it,it’s reminds me of my brother who took his life around the same time.”This world was never meant for someone as beautiful as you “.

[@taja1976]

The timbre of Don's youthful voice now thickened with the wisdom of age... it gives this great song another subtle layer of emotion.