Rapper FIRST time REACTION to Don Mclean - Vincent! Oh MY...

[@stephenstrudwick8095]

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.

[@stephenstrudwick8095]

He also painted "The Starry Night" in 1889.

[@fayesouthall6604]

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. 😢

[@bkm2797]

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. ❤️👍😇

[@Jayscollo]

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

[@rubyslippers8215]

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...

[@shanegooding4839]

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.😊

[@guyray1504]

Was thinking the same thing when he said it.

[@DangerousDave1982]

Caught that too 😂.

[@martyb5807]

Yeah, I was totally like well, that's ironic.Wait till he finds out

[@Cchan53]

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" !

[@tammybiddle7115]

My thoughts exactly

[@edwardhubschman3610]

One of the most beautiful and haunting songs ever written.

[@threekidzmom04]

oh yes!

[@d.s.6268]

What do you mean "one of" ?

[@cynthiamitchell2880]

I agree. Such a tribute to one of the greatest painters ever. Van Gogh is my favorite of all the other artists

[@MsAppassionata]

@@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.

[@hippiemama52]

​@@d.s.6268not to take anything away from this song, but "Dust in the Wind" by Kansas rates right uo there too.

[@1973HenkY]

About 5 years ago, the Van Gogh museum in Amsterdam invited Don Mclean to perform this song inside the museum.

[@hookedonreactions7649]

Did he do it?

[@1973HenkY]

@@hookedonreactions7649 It's on YT

[@justwondering5651]

The line that gets me every time is "This world was not meant for one as beautiful as you."

[@txheadshots]

Chills every time

[@ronnieking9089]

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.)

[@NorthernRambler]

I've heard this song a million times and it never fails to make me cry.

[@JosephThornburg-w3u]

best part of the song

[@AnneBiebrich]

Me too

[@cmoplay1]

Vincents' paintings will stir your soul like the song

[@tinagilbert8902]

😊YES!!🥰🥰🥰

[@MsAppassionata]

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.

[@catherinemccullough299]

@@MsAppassionatayes, just saw them in the Van Gogh museum in Amsterdam, absolutely stunning!

[@MsAppassionata]

@@catherinemccullough299 I went there when I was in Amsterdam! I loved going there!

[@MsAppassionata]

@@catherinemccullough299 They also have some of his works on display at the Musee de’Orsay in Paris.

[@stephaniewarthen]

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.

[@shannonotoole3526]

love that episode. cry every time

[@TheSILENTBOB180]

Totally classic episode

[@fayesouthall6604]

@@TheSILENTBOB180I know 😢

[@MissMeKate]

Wonderful episode, Tony Curran was incredible as Vincent.

[@bkm2797]

shannonotoole3526, Me too, every time!💦

[@joankisloski6972]

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.

[@HRConsultant_Jeff]

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.

[@richdiddens4059]

Several of his other paintings are also described in the song.

[@justwondering5651]

"The Starry Night" but otherwise OK.

[@dennystewart3238]

He did not cut off his ear. He only cut off a small portion of it.

[@ekramer2478]

@@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"

[@gregcable3250]

"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.

[@loricooper2450]

Don wasn't just a writer, he was a storyteller

[@unmalo2768]

And a domestic abuser! Arrested for DV!

[@tommyk6719]

@@unmalo2768Fake news.

[@karidrgn]

​@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.

[@BonniBarlow-fn6oj]

@@karidrgn Unmalo2768 was saying DonMcClean was an abuser - not Vincent Vangogh. I know nothing about that though.

[@terri2494]

@@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.

[@rustbeltwriter]

My dad loved Don Mclean and always cried when this song came on. Every time.

[@anniebland6450]

I'm 4 weeks off 70... I still cry when I hear this song

[@VicEclectica]

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.

[@nim4464]

same, and then i cry every time lol

[@loricooper2450]

And wasn't that the best tribute ever !!!

[@VicEclectica]

@@nim4464 Same!

[@janflewelling6277]

OMG - that's one of my all time favorite Dr Who episodes. Can watch it over and over again - and I have. So moving.

[@cindipossidento5688]

This song always made me cry …….

[@janflewelling6277]

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.

[@gregrodriguez5697]

I personally think that this is his best song.

[@gusrose62]

I really love Crossroads…saved me many times.

[@jeffcorey5841]

Me too

[@ggt342ss]

unbelievable song writing

[@TimJeffery-e7l]

To offer a different angle, Roberta Flack wrote "Killing Me Softly" as a reaction to going to a Don McLean concert.

[@DJ2724-r7z]

wow - I never knew that! thanks for the info 🙂

[@amoparx]

Roberta Flack didn't write the song. Another woman saw Don Mclean at the Troubadour and was inspired to write it. She released the song a year or two, earlier. With little success.

[@audreyross5580]

How Don describes all of His paintings in totally beautiful!

[@lazylady8591]

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.

[@matildafishes9931]

Thank you for this history! ❤

[@richdiddens4059]

And the only picture he sold in his lifetime was one bought by Theo.

[@SueProv]

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.

[@MsAppassionata]

@@SueProv I did not know that. Your comment brought tears to my eyes.

[@tinastar1972]

I believe it's been said that he painted his "Starry Starry Night" from the view from his room in the mental health hospital.

[@starburstppl]

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.

[@margaretmarks6685]

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. 😂

[@BrownMBA]

That is so interesting!

[@ekramer2478]

@@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.

[@joannparker1977]

Oh man. Did not know that. 😢

[@markmurphy558]

There is a lyric video of Vincent featuring his paintings that is very impactful that you will enjoy

[@sylvanaire]

Yes, I was coming to recommend the same thing, thanks for getting there first! 😊

[@Simonpsays]

It is such a good highlight to the song and just shows how great the lyrics were

[@perpetualidiocy6622]

a must

[@brendajackson913]

THIS IS my absolute favorite song Don wrote, I love American Pie but Vincent is haunting and deep.

[@Kathe255]

When I was just a little girl I heard this song and I loved it then. Love it still

[@laurahyland5020]

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.

[@glennburch1081]

The masses can be grossly ignorant!

[@K-Denton]

So true😢

[@GavinMaGrath]

​@@glennburch1081Can be? Are

[@rebeldarlin7]

Art snobs rarely recognize true art!

[@mspfinney]

Absolutely true.

[@allenmccreary2359]

One of the most underrated songs of all time. If not one the most beautiful and haunting ever

[@unclechristosfrontporch2225]

Tupac peeking over your desk throughout this reaction was both beautiful and haunting

[@susanengland3919]

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.

[@rubyslippers8215]

Home Free's version is simply wonderful. I loved how they incorporated the paintings into the video and of course, the vocals are amazing.

[@marshajanulis6092]

thank you, i didnt know about this.

[@HannahSBax]

Yes, came here to say the same. It's a wonderful version

[@brendasorenson6186]

Ditto. Beautiful version. It was interesting to hear how Don's has matured in over 50 years. He still has it.

[@lazylady8591]

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.

[@destination22ful]

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.

[@prep-n-pray2049]

Coincidentally, there's a picture of Tupac directly under the video! 🥹

[@The1Mommalau]

There is another video on KZbin 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.

[@rubyslippers8215]

Here's the link to the video you mentioned. ...kzbin.info/www/bejne/pamrn4WcnamgqM0 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!

[@donnab8010]

@@rubyslippers8215 - Thank you for posting the link to Vincent Van Gogh's video.

[@jeannewolfe4489]

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.

[@threekidzmom04]

oh yes! amazing!

[@mdowns36]

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.

[@catherinedorney6092]

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

[@donigoodwin3580]

Vincent's last words.. the sadness will last forever

[@jannakins1]

This song is about Vincent Van Gogh

[@philipem1000]

*"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.

[@VincentManiscalco]

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

[@chelseahaley8350]

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!

[@cog4life]

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.

[@madmadmona]

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.

[@nanadeborah8717]

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.

[@yelljal2764]

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.

[@tinameyer7080]

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 :)❤

[@redtick79]

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.

[@kareng4658]

This song gives me goosebumps every time. A masterpiece.

[@bkm2797]

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.❤️👍

[@inekebaalman3320]

His name is Vincent van Gogh🙄!

[@bkm2797]

You are correct, sorry about that! 😜

[@RockPowerUSA]

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.

[@xoxxobob61]

I read that after McLean read this about Van Gogh he wrote this Song in less than a half hour.

[@heartwork8318]

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 ❤️‍🔥✌🏻🫶🏻

[@bkm2797]

Yeah, and sucking on his paintbrush full of leaded paint didn't help either! Love his art and love this song.❤️

[@Krsnalila8]

He is describing all his beautiful paintings...Starry...Starry .. Night.... Vincent Van Gogh lived from 1853-1880

[@terriking-d4d]

This was the song i chose for my brother len’s funeral . He had mental health issues . You now need to listen again looking at the paintings don is referring to starry starry night is one of the most famous …the tragedy is his paintings now sell for millions but he died penniless . You are such a sweetie with a big heart that you got the Vincent Van Gogh story and pain just from the song. Privileged to see him with my bestie Sharon in the uk . Cried a lot xxx

[@deborahcurry1014]

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 ❤

[@aliciahager2961]

💗🥀💗

[@grammybeatrice7081]

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.

[@Trish-ql9kz]

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

[@MommaBird52]

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!

[@traceyvavrecan6714]

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

[@philross2007]

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.

[@Bumperump]

It was Tupac's favourite song and, if memory serves me correctly, it was played by his death bed.

[@lazylady8591]

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.

[@alexhusko]

Van Gogh didn't have his story told and artistry appreciated to the deserved level until he was deceased. Also, Don McLean is a true American poet and writer, before he's a musician. Loving your genuine and honest reactions brother. Keep this you going,and listen to everything.

[@Shazzadut1]

Don wrote this after reading a book about Vincent Van Gogh. Van Gogh only sold only one painting in his lifetime, to his brother. He was not successful and was a tortured soul and he ended up taking his own life. He cut off his ear at one point, after suffering severe mental health issues. Now his artwork is revered and hung in major galleries around the world. Sunflowers and Starry Night are probably his best known works.

[@catherinemccullough299]

I’ve just returned from Amsterdam, and visited the. Van Gogh museum, I was blown away by his art, and appreciated him more than ever, such a sad, sad life!

[@conniewagner4234]

This song and ‘At Seventeen’ by Janis Ian always made me cry. They’re both so beautiful and deep.

[@1361JACK]

Totally agree

[@jamiewilliamson641]

I've heard this song most all my life, and there has not been one time that I haven't shed tears.

[@rob-time]

I would love to see a reaction video of this guy learning what it is really about.

[@Michael-to6so]

Man, I love your reaction at the 4:55 abd the 5:24 minute mark! Kind of like....'This Is Deep, I Wasn't Ready For It!!' Vincent Van Gogh And Don McLean ...2 Of A Kind!!

[@azandor3000]

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.

[@tonywtyt]

Wonderful, lyrical description of Van Gogh's paintings and the tragic loss. It is one of the most beautiful songs of its time. This was a great time for sing/song writters also.

[@think1959]

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. 😢

[@sean_b_drummer]

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.

[@jojones1082]

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.

[@mariejustme]

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.

[@markgulbranson7518]

You are the first person I've seen who understood where the song was headed. I'm impressed!

[@aginaz]

"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!

[@pagemeredith4532]

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.

[@averagejoe845]

I'm in my mid 60s and too often take for granted the music my generation grew up with. I don't remember when I first heard this song, but years later I took a drawing class in a local college and for my final project I (tried) to recreate Vincent's drawing "Sien's Mother's house". Most creative thing I've done.

[@GlobetrotterGranny]

Vincent Van Gogh - greatest impressionist artist ever. Tortured soul who cut his ear off.

[@jeanmc4213]

Each new line of the song describes one of Vincent's masterful paintings.

[@TarisSinclair]

Thank you for listening to the song. Even if you didn't immediately recognize the references and story of Vincent van Gogh, you understood the underlying meaning - the tragedy of losing a beautiful person too soon to mental health issues. This is probably the only song that never fails to bring me to tears - but the good kind of tears that allow you to let all the pain out. I'll be forever grateful to Don McLean for writing this song.

[@grudgebringer]

One of the most beautiful songs ever written. Heartbreaking and beautiful.

[@branewnatshell]

I'm sitting here on a phone with a Vincent painting screen saver, a Start Night keychain, Vincent painting prints on my wall and a medal from winning a vocal contest in high school in the 70s singing this song. I did a thesis paper on Vincent in college. You could say I'm a mega fan. Lol My birthday gift from my daughter for my 60th was tickets to a Vincent immersion show that was just spectacular. And this man, so unappreciated and tortured in his lifetime, is still touching people's lives. Thanks man. I bawled like a baby listening but it's just another way of connecting as humans being. ❤❤❤❤

[@matthewhawkins517]

What is amazing about this song is that when he is not directly talking about Van Gogh he is describing his paintings.

[@rosaliatrevisanut5967]

A most beautiful song. A true classic ❤❤❤❤

[@bacobetts8179]

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.

[@TeamEMPYT]

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.

[@jeffjohnson5421]

Don Mclean. An artist writing about an artist.

[@cattewest]

I was in Art School when this song was released. It spoke to all of us. Always brings me to tears. But so beautiful.

[@lunachickfringe5319]

This song will always bring me to tears. Doubly so if I'm watching a video that showcases Vincent's paintings while listening.

[@glennburch1081]

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.

[@veegeebrew3695]

Years ago I was thrilled to attend a huge Van Gogh exhibit at the LACMA (on loan while the Van Gogh museum in Amsterdam was being remodeled) and I am sure I hummed this song all the way thru the 100 paintings on exhibit. Starry Starry Night should have been a clue. All the details were descriptions of some of his art pieces.

[@kristinemckee9279]

Some day when your daughters are old enough it would be such a gift to take them to the Van Gogh museum in Amsterdam.

[@waynebuckland7879]

The most amazing part of this whole clip is not the song writing, nor the music or his voice but the entire audience who seem to be between 18 and 30 yrs of age, sitting perfectly still and listening with great respect and absorbing everything on offer. Vincent van Gogh loved humanity.

[@stephaniewarthen]

This song always brings the tears.

[@catherinedorney6092]

He was a famous painter with mental health issues. And this song in its entirety is painting a picture and its haunting and this song is painting a picture...thank you

[@sgholt]

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

[@tlo3571]

“Like lovers often do.” The love is between Vincent and his love of painting.there was joy in creating,but sadness is no one recognizes the beauty in his work. Two of his most recognizable paintings hang in my bedroom.

[@florencehallahan56]

Vincent Van Gogh, the painter of "Starry Night" 😊

[@gloriasowle8083]

One of the most beautiful paintings I have ever seen was "Irises" hanging in the Getty Museum. He used iridescence. It literally glows.

[@Natasha-ty7oo]

Should check out the new version Don just put out with Homefree!! Great version

[@henriksylvestolsen4885]

Beautiful reaction to a beauriful song!

[@rubyslippers8215]

Yes, BP, it's pronounced "Mac-Lane". He's such an extraordinary poet - combined with his beautiful voice...perfection. Who else would think to write a song about Vincent Van Gogh? He captures Van Gough's tortured life so accurately...the pain, the suffering, the talent that wasn't appreciated...it's all in this song. It's my favorite McLean song, too. Be sure to go look at Van Gough's painting, "Starry Night." You don't just see it, you "feel" it. Now you can travel down the "Great Art" rabbit hole...

[@rubyslippers8215]

@@Spo-Dee-O-Dee I'm familiar with the Kirk Douglas movie, but didn't know there was an opera or a Dylan Van Gough song. Love learning about new things. Thanks!

[@davidpowell2356]

This was Tupac’s favorite song.

[@ilonaforsman]

Who is Tupac ?

[@davidpowell2356]

@@ilonaforsman huh?

[@MsAppassionata]

@@ilonaforsman🙄🙄🙄👎🏽

[@MsAppassionata]

@@ilonaforsman 🙄🙄🙄👎🏽

[@vernonfrance2974]

@@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]

[@TheSILENTBOB180]

Now this is a classic

[@davidwcooney]

I was seven when this performance was recorded. Being that young, I had no idea what the song is about. I just remember that it was beautiful, sad, and I loved listening to it. Of course, when I learned what it is about, and learned more about Van Gough, it just became that much more beautiful, sad, and I loved it even more. Watching your reaction brings me back to the first time I heard it. I have to admit that I've been eagerly waiting for you to do this song. Your reaction is what I thought it would be.

[@AngharadMaloney]

The amazing thing is that you have a skateboard(?) with a picture of Tupac, who cited this song as one of his favourites. Tupac loved this song and how Don captured Vincent's tortured life in song. There's a KZbin video of this song with Van Gogh's artwork as the backdrop, which beautifully displays the lyrics of this song. Either way, thank you for reacting and reaching a new audience with this song. Also, this was a shorter version of this song so I hope you listen to the full version. It's worth it. True beauty.

[@debbywoodbeck1105]

The first time I heard this song, we were studying van Gogh in my art classs. My Art Teacher played this song over and over again until it was plasteered in my head. I love this song as much as I love van Gogh's painting "Starry, Starry, Night" I love the painting so much I did a cross Stitch portrait of it, framed and hanging on my wall.

[@caro.k2958]

Vincen Van Gough the arris he sings for him. Vincent legendary arist never sold a painting in his lifetime. When I was young I went with my boyfriend to an exhibition of grand masters. We walked around in awe. Then I stopped in front of a painting in one of the halls a painting of a field and a farmer. My boyfriend found me an hour later sat on the floor still transported to another world staring on awe. I will never forget that painting To me Vincent is truely the greatest artist this world has ever seen.❤ Such a sad tragic life that gave so much to the world❤

[@annfrost3323]

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.