Van Gough sold one painting in his life, to his brother. He produced an astounding 700+ pieces in the last 2 years of his life. Some of his paintings are valued at $100 million today.
@@barsandbarbells2022 More like 750, over 2 a day for 2 years. Probably a lot of drawings included in this total, but still, he must have been pretty manicky, and a lot of sleepless nights.
Don't forget he was a a sufferer of halutionations. Apparently mostly audio. So perhaps doing all that art helped keep his mind off what noises he was hearing which were not actually there.
@@StanleyTeriaca Everyone who's an Absinth user, Vincent was an addict, hallucinates, which is weird seeing there is no scientific proof that the ingredients would cause that to happen, but having done it myself quite a bit I can confirm it does 'something' to the mind that other alcoholic drinks never have, not even Stroh rum or any Vodka.
Kudos Samantha. So few reactors realize that nearly every descriptive line in that song references a specific painting. Ingenious how he worked out describing paintings in such a beautiful way. There is a video out there that shows each painting in succession that corresponds to the lyrics as the song progresses..
The effect of the lyrics on the listener is heightened when viewing Vincent's work at the same time as listening. While it is impossible for the video image to convey the full emotional impact of seeing a Van Gough in person, it never the less gives you an even better feel for the powerful McLean lyrics. ua-cam.com/video/oxHnRfhDmrk/v-deo.htmlsi=CqiJN98V8izzihmX
I tear up every time I hear this song. I recently watched a documentary on Van Gogh that focused on what drove him to cut off his ear. So, so sad. Don McLean captured this genius in music and lyrics the only way another genius can. Thank you guys!!
I don't know about the "real" pronunciation, but here I think we just say Vincent Van "Go". I just hate to hear you two struggling so hard to pronounce his name. Good reaction - thank you for sharing. God bless you
The world has had uncountable great artists, both of famous celebrated caliber and those that are not. Personally, I was never drawn to Van Goh's popular works, but I recently became familiar with his still life (flowers in vases for example) and was quite impressed with those and found it interesting that these artworks are not nearly as ubiquitous as the ones that are commercially all over the place and plastered on all kinds of merchandise.
@@andreaschmall5560 Of course art is very subjective and what is often considered 'great' means 'more popular' which doesn't mean that much, does it? But I find van Gogh to be unique (I came across him over fifty years ago when he wasn't quite so 'plastered on all kinds of merchandise'). When I go for a while, maybe years without looking at his work, and then get back to it, it is as if I am seeing something very amazing for the first time To me, when he went to the colors he did later in his work he shed some of the very somberness that ironically he carried within until the end. I see a lot of beauty in his colorful landscapes. But I do not allow what others think to move me, as you do not either, but I must say van Gogh, to me, is like no other. Of course it would have been lovely if he didn't live such a painful life, which in turn most likely stirred him to paint like he did. Cheers.
A while back I saw the Van Gogh exhibit at the DIA. What struck me most about his paintings is that if you stand close to the painting you can't make out the image - it looks like random brush strokes and globs of paint. As you move back from the painting all of the sudden the image pops and becomes discernible. Truly amazing.
Starry Starry Night is the name of his Painting . Vinent Van Gogh Painted pictures of common People hence the referance to Ragged Men in Ragged clothes . His paintings were not appreciated and not many people wanted them . His Brother used to buy them so he could buy food . He suffered heavily with depression during his life and eventually committed suicide . He cut of his ear and sent to his girlfriend or something like that . His Paintings after his death became priceless . What a sad Story ; When this came out in the 70S It was a massive hit for Don . Thanks Guys for bringing this great song to your Channel
@@johnbrookes3261 It wasn't a typing error. Just admit you didn't know the proper name of the painting. 🙄🤪 Typing Vinent instead of Vincent was your typing error.
There is a video version of this that shows the Van Gough paintings referred to in the songs as its played. Powerful. One of the most beautiful songs ever written.
The anger and passion in Van Gough's brush strokes is what struck me the first time I saw his work up close. . . truly haunting. Beautiful tribute by Don McLean, as well.
Y'all should check out the video that's a slideshow of van goh art with the song playing. It has millions of views, but it's a nice touch. Whether or not you react to it, its worth a watch in my opinion.
First off: great job on pronouncing the name. I'm a native English speaker but I also speak Dutch, and man this name threw me. Van Gogh was such a sad, beautiful, but sadly tortured genius. In his lifetime, he was not appreciated. I've read the letters between him and his brother Theo, and I have to tell you, he is my favorite artist, but my heart aches for him. I know he was a man of faith and so am I. I genuinely hope he rests in peace in the presence of Almighty God. The first time I heard this tune was actually a pop-punk cover by NOFX and it actually smokes and is worth hearing!
So many artists struggle when they are alive and when they die their catologue becomes famous, my mom told me the proverb, "a prophet is often not recognised in his own land and time."
This song brought a heightened awareness to mental illness. Treatments for mental issues has become far more effective and compassionate since then, in part because of this song.
Nice review guys. I think you got the message. Van Gogh had major mental struggles - famous for cutting his ear off - and took his own life. His work is now considered beautiful and almost priceless.
I've been to the Van Gogh museum in Amsterdam and learned a lot more about him. He painted common people with lined faces, farmers, etc. He struggled so much as a person and as an artist. There's a book out now called "The Secret Life of Sunflowers" about Vincent's sister-in-law and her part in getting his work recognized. I've bought the book but haven't had a chance to read it yet. The museum was fantastic even though some of his most famous paints are not there.
I know it was sci-fi, but the episode of Doctor Who where they discreetly brought Vincent to the 21st Century for him to see how appreciated he had become, was for me very moving.
Possibly the greatest lyrics ever in a song. Up there with Jim Steinman Lyrics. "When no hope was left in sight on that Starry, Starry Night you took your life like lovers often do. But I could have told you Vincent. This world was never meant for one as beautiful as you."
I’ve heard this song 100’s of times and still cry at times listening to the lyrics. It is sad enough to be worthy of tears. That’s what great songs do. Vincent is probably one of the best songs portraying the emotion behind masterpieces. Because of all the treatments for spectrum disorders, designed to quiet the dominant creative mind; future generations may not have poets, artists, musicians and writers like the creative geniuses of generations long ago. Thanks for reacting to this song.
HI from Australia, Vincent died 1890. Self inflicted gun shot to chest, may I say Vincent Van Gogh is my favourite artist of all time it's very sad he only became famous after he died.❤
💥 Definitely one of my favorite songs of all time. So glad someone is doing a reaction video to this one. SHALOM. Vincent Van Gogh a artistic genius with an incredible soul. Should try watching a documentary about it. SHALOM
I always took the line "they did not listen they did not know how, perhaps they'll listen now", to be a direct reference to Vincent cutting off his ear.
It's very refreshing to have reactors like you completely GET the lyrics and understand this is about Vincent Van Gogh and his work and the suffering he lived with. This IS an incredible living tribute from one artist to another and the melody is also gorgeous. This is a legendary song and deserves to be so.
TRIVIA:: As famous rapper Tupac lay there dying,, He asked this song be played for him & they did,, It was his absolute favorite song...R.I.P. Vincent & Tupac. 🙏❤️
My loving husband took me to see his work in Nashville. It was a virtual work so the paintings occurred on the walls as you sat there. It was truly a beautiful experience. So glad you enjoyed this.
Ya know it was Vincent’s sister in law that saved the day. It was her after the death of Vincent’s brother Theo that saved all if Vincent Van Goth’s paintings . She saved everything. She could have thrown everything away but she didn’t. As the years went by an art dealer from London saw Vincent’s paintings and was blown away with how good they were and afford Her a great deal of money. That’s how the world first became aware of Vincent Van Goth.
My creative writing teacher in high school introduced us to this song and the Starry Night painting, then had us write our own own poems following that experience. This instantly became one of my favorite songs. Thank you Mr. Barone! 💜
This is probably one of my top 10 favorite songs ever...Don McLean's poetry is descriptive and so deep... It just fits so well into his songs...great reaction, guys...I really enjoyed this one... Keep Being Awesome !!!...
Don McLean is a brilliant songwriter ❤. He's written some beautiful songs over the years. Many of them covered by other big artists ❤ Vincent is a Masterpiece from Don McLean.
When he reaches the "no hope was left in sight..." line I have to give in to the tears every time I listen to this song. I cry every time; 50+ years and the sad beauty of that line has never failed to bring the tears.
Only Vincent's brother Theo, truly came to understand his artistry while Vincent was alive. After he died by his own hand, and some time had passed, others began to appreciate his painter's style.
There is a possibly valid theory that he was shot by a young boy, possibly accidentally. Vincent didn't want to get the kid in trouble as he lay dying.
The fact that these lyrics perfectly describe Vincent van Gogh's paintings is so good! There's another lyric video on UA-cam that uses all the paintings as a background to the lyrics, pointing out that link between the art and Don's lyrics.
Such a great song by Don McLean! It is his tribute to the sad life of the painter Vincent Van Gogh. He suffered from depression & committed suicide. He never saw any success during his life. But now his paintings are worth millions of dollars.
Somewhere on UA-cam, there is a clip from the TV show "Dr. Who" where Vincent is taken by time travel to an art gallery where his beautiful art is displayed. Another shows most of the pictures referenced in the song. They add so much to the song. I still tear up when I listen to it. There is a word error: the line "and when no hope was left in sight..." it should be "inside."
An artist on an artist. This song has been a core song for me since I was kid. Much of Van Gogh’s work was done within a two year period, as an artist no one could depict wind and movement like he did, all done within his unique style. (Monet lived into his eighties and produced a lot of technically brilliant work, but which I find is sterile to look at). We now think of Van Gogh as one of the greatest painters that ever lived, it’s a shame it took long to realise that - which is what this song conveys. Don McLean’s American Pie album is awesome too. Every track, albeit not released as a single, is superb.
Such a beautiful on such a sad and tragic topic. After listening to this song, you cannot look at Vincent's art the same way. In Europe, they pronounce his name 'Van Goff'. Supposedly this was Tupac's favorite song. There was also a Dr. Who episode where they meet Vincent, and it is one of the very best episodes.
Saw the traveling Van Gogh exhibit two years ago. They put some of his paintings in motion and they look like that's how they were meant to be seen. He painted many self portraits over the years and most make him appear quite sad. He also would paint random people in the village where he lived and you feel like you can see into their souls. The starry night that was his inspiration for the famous painting was one he saw through the bars on his window at the asylum he was in at the time.
This has always been my favorite song. I've listened to it countless times, but every single time I'm moved to tears as if I heard it for the first time.
The letters written between Vincent and his younger brother Theo are so beautiful and filled with love and support. He suffered from depression and alcohol abuse. The treatments for these were not helpful during that time and he finally ended his own life at the age of 37. During his short life though he painted more than 2100 works.
This is the one I suggested not too long ago! I'm glad y'all managed to get to it sooner than I ever expected. I'm sure someone else brought it up as well. Cheers!
I remember many years ago I was reading about a lady in France who was the oldest human ever confirmed and documented in history and her name escapes me but she said her parents had owned a store in France where they sold painting supplies. She said when she was 14 she wanted on Vincent when he came into the store for supplies. She said he was unkempt and slovenly and was not very nice at all.
"Lust For Life" (1956, in color) starring Kirk Douglas (father of Michael Douglas) is a biopic on Vincent Van Gogh, rated from 3 1/2 to 4 1/2 stars and a movie worth watching. Also, director Robert Altman did his version of a biopic on Van Gogh, quite different in emphasis, and well worth watching also; this a 1990 film titled "Vincent & Theo" (Theo being his supportive brother).
Just like the actor James Dean became so legendary and popular due to the drama of his untimely death in a car accident at the peak of his career, I think the drama surrounding Van Gogh's mental illness made him much more popular and legendary than he otherwise would have ever been. Where's Davinci's and Picaso's dedicated songs? And countless others whose talent way surpasses Van Gogh's (and that's an opinion held by many true connoisseurs of art). I suppose not cutting off ones ear is not a great marketing deision.
Van Gough sold one painting in his life, to his brother. He produced an astounding 700+ pieces in the last 2 years of his life. Some of his paintings are valued at $100 million today.
Starry night is one of the worlds favorite painting of Van Gogh, my personal one is Irisis!
700?!
@@barsandbarbells2022 More like 750, over 2 a day for 2 years. Probably a lot of drawings included in this total, but still, he must have been pretty manicky, and a lot of sleepless nights.
Don't forget he was a a sufferer of halutionations. Apparently mostly audio. So perhaps doing all that art helped keep his mind off what noises he was hearing which were not actually there.
@@StanleyTeriaca Everyone who's an Absinth user, Vincent was an addict, hallucinates, which is weird seeing there is no scientific proof that the ingredients would cause that to happen, but having done it myself quite a bit I can confirm it does 'something' to the mind that other alcoholic drinks never have, not even Stroh rum or any Vodka.
Van Gogh painted with colors, McLean paints with words. 'This world was never meant for one as beautiful as you" gets me every time.
That's the line that hits me every time too
So much meaning in one lone line
So well said!
That's the line that I sometimes feel is the greatest tribute ever in a song.
Yes.. but what makes it even more poignant is : "I could have told you Vincent.." before that line...
Don McLean was invited to sing this song at the Van Gogh Museum in the Netherlands.
That's so cool!
An amazing museum. Well worth the visit if in Amsterdam.
ua-cam.com/video/rfTBSHXV0eM/v-deo.htmlsi=xe6YOfc8O2Y4r0bl
Did he go?
ua-cam.com/video/rfTBSHXV0eM/v-deo.htmlsi=jN8FPSJE1bXC4Scn
Don McLean references many of Vincent van Gogh's masterpieces throughout this song.
"This world was never meant for one as beautiful as you" always makes me start bawling.
ME, TOO!!!
I'm not crying...you're crying!
@@keithhealing1115 RIIIIIIGHHHHT..... 😆😆😆❤️❤️❤️
Same here. A true masterpiece never to be surpassed.
It’s such a lovely sentiment
Kudos Samantha. So few reactors realize that nearly every descriptive line in that song references a specific painting. Ingenious how he worked out describing paintings in such a beautiful way. There is a video out there that shows each painting in succession that corresponds to the lyrics as the song progresses..
That’s the one to watch
@@bradsense7431 Yes! They should watch that video, even if they don’t do a reaction video for it.
The recent collab with Home Free is beautifully done. ❤❤
That's the best video of this song. Brings a deeper meaning. ❤
The effect of the lyrics on the listener is heightened when viewing Vincent's work at the same time as listening. While it is impossible for the video image to convey the full emotional impact of seeing a Van Gough in person, it never the less gives you an even better feel for the powerful McLean lyrics. ua-cam.com/video/oxHnRfhDmrk/v-deo.htmlsi=CqiJN98V8izzihmX
I tear up every time I hear this song. I recently watched a documentary on Van Gogh that focused on what drove him to cut off his ear. So, so sad. Don McLean captured this genius in music and lyrics the only way another genius can. Thank you guys!!
This song is the inspiration for the Roberta Flack song Killing Me Softly With His Words.
@@richdiddens4059 That’s a great song.
I don't know about the "real" pronunciation, but here I think we just say Vincent Van "Go". I just hate to hear you two struggling so hard to pronounce his name. Good reaction - thank you for sharing. God bless you
I watched a documentary on Van Gogh recently and they pronounced it Van Goff. @@pamalaalford1081
Our pleasure!
Vincent van Gogh was without a doubt one of the greatest artists to ever walk the earth. This song is a fantastic ode to him. Thanks for the reaction.
The world has had uncountable great artists, both of famous celebrated caliber and those that are not. Personally, I was never drawn to Van Goh's popular works, but I recently became familiar with his still life (flowers in vases for example) and was quite impressed with those and found it interesting that these artworks are not nearly as ubiquitous as the ones that are commercially all over the place and plastered on all kinds of merchandise.
Excellent!
IMO, he was THE greatest.
It was awesome!
@@andreaschmall5560 Of course art is very subjective and what is often considered 'great' means 'more popular' which doesn't mean that much, does it? But I find van Gogh to be unique (I came across him over fifty years ago when he wasn't quite so 'plastered on all kinds of merchandise'). When I go for a while, maybe years without looking at his work, and then get back to it, it is as if I am seeing something very amazing for the first time To me, when he went to the colors he did later in his work he shed some of the very somberness that ironically he carried within until the end. I see a lot of beauty in his colorful landscapes. But I do not allow what others think to move me, as you do not either, but I must say van Gogh, to me, is like no other. Of course it would have been lovely if he didn't live such a painful life, which in turn most likely stirred him to paint like he did. Cheers.
I just hope that Vincent knows how much he’s appreciated for his genius and how much he’s loved
A while back I saw the Van Gogh exhibit at the DIA. What struck me most about his paintings is that if you stand close to the painting you can't make out the image - it looks like random brush strokes and globs of paint. As you move back from the painting all of the sudden the image pops and becomes discernible. Truly amazing.
I had the same experience from his paintings. Incredible in person.
One of the most beautiful songs ever written ♥.
Yes absolutely one of the most beautiful songs ever written
Agreed!
I would STRONGLY SUGGEST going back & watching Don perform this classic Live..A MUST SEE/HEAR.
I was thinking the same thing. The live version is definitely worth watching.
Yes. The live performance from the 70s.
I would strongly disagree, this version is much better !
Yes it was great live!
Actually the version that shows his paintings is very good also
A pretty cold analysis and reaction considering the genius of the song.
I cry EVERYTIME I hear it. It is soooooooo darn beautiful❤
Me, too
So do I.
Sometimes I win, and don't.
His Castles In the Air is also very beautiful!
Great suggestion - love that song!
Castles in the Air and Empty Chairs are two of my favourites.
Great song, and also another song that shows off how awesome Don McLean’s poetic lyrics is Empty Chairs. Sad song but amazing lyrics
I agree with you...another beautiful poem more than a song.@@ianoo23
One of the most beautiful songs of my 75 years.
The first line in each stanza is the title of one of Vincent's paintings, followed by a meaningful description of that painting.
Starry Starry Night is the name of his Painting . Vinent Van Gogh Painted pictures of common People hence the referance to Ragged Men in Ragged clothes . His paintings were not appreciated and not many people wanted them . His Brother used to buy them so he could buy food . He suffered heavily with depression during his life and eventually committed suicide . He cut of his ear and sent to his girlfriend or something like that . His Paintings after his death became priceless . What a sad Story ; When this came out in the 70S It was a massive hit for Don . Thanks Guys for bringing this great song to your Channel
The painting is called "Starry Night." The phrase "Starry starry night" is a poetic variation on it to fit the music.
@@DMichaelAtLarge Ok made a mistake What else you got to say /
@@johnbrookes3261
You screwed up the name of the most famous painting ever.
@@kbrewski1 You never made a typing error ! It was not intentional .
@@johnbrookes3261
It wasn't a typing error. Just admit you didn't know the proper name of the painting. 🙄🤪 Typing Vinent instead of Vincent was your typing error.
This is 100 times better when you watch it live
I cry every time I hear this song. I can't help singing with it, and then I cry.
Still can’t hear this without tearing up, after all these years. A beautiful tribute
There is a video version of this that shows the Van Gough paintings referred to in the songs as its played. Powerful. One of the most beautiful songs ever written.
The anger and passion in Van Gough's brush strokes is what struck me the first time I saw his work up close. . . truly haunting. Beautiful tribute by Don McLean, as well.
Y'all should check out the video that's a slideshow of van goh art with the song playing. It has millions of views, but it's a nice touch. Whether or not you react to it, its worth a watch in my opinion.
THIS! Watch the video with Van Gogh's artwork!
It's a must see!
Yes, agree and also I would recommend watching a movie made of Vincent's life with Kirk Douglas "Lust for Life".
When no hope was left in sight, on that starry starry night, you took your life as lovers often do 😢😢
This one always brings tears to my eyes. Such a beautiful, emotional song. Its simplicity is its strength and its beauty. Love it.
Vincent understood the pain of others. His message: "You're not alone. I understand."
And he could certainly see the beauty.
First off: great job on pronouncing the name. I'm a native English speaker but I also speak Dutch, and man this name threw me. Van Gogh was such a sad, beautiful, but sadly tortured genius. In his lifetime, he was not appreciated. I've read the letters between him and his brother Theo, and I have to tell you, he is my favorite artist, but my heart aches for him. I know he was a man of faith and so am I. I genuinely hope he rests in peace in the presence of Almighty God.
The first time I heard this tune was actually a pop-punk cover by NOFX and it actually smokes and is worth hearing!
So many artists struggle when they are alive and when they die their catologue becomes famous, my mom told me the proverb, "a prophet is often not recognised in his own land and time."
What I love about this song is how the push and pull of the rhythm and the pacing really contributes to the emotion of the song.
This song brought a heightened awareness to mental illness. Treatments for mental issues has become far more effective and compassionate since then, in part because of this song.
Nice review guys. I think you got the message. Van Gogh had major mental struggles - famous for cutting his ear off - and took his own life. His work is now considered beautiful and almost priceless.
I can't imagine how horrible it must have been to suffer from mental illness back in those days.
Or was Van Gogh just too sane for this world
This song is only one of a handful that brings me to tears .
I've been to the Van Gogh museum in Amsterdam and learned a lot more about him. He painted common people with lined faces, farmers, etc. He struggled so much as a person and as an artist. There's a book out now called "The Secret Life of Sunflowers" about Vincent's sister-in-law and her part in getting his work recognized. I've bought the book but haven't had a chance to read it yet. The museum was fantastic even though some of his most famous paints are not there.
I know it was sci-fi, but the episode of Doctor Who where they discreetly brought Vincent to the 21st Century for him to see how appreciated he had become, was for me very moving.
That episode had me in tears just as this song does!
Possibly the greatest lyrics ever in a song. Up there with Jim Steinman Lyrics. "When no hope was left in sight on that Starry, Starry Night you took your life like lovers often do. But I could have told you Vincent. This world was never meant for one as beautiful as you."
I’ve heard this song 100’s of times and still cry at times listening to the lyrics. It is sad enough to be worthy of tears. That’s what great songs do. Vincent is probably one of the best songs portraying the emotion behind masterpieces. Because of all the treatments for spectrum disorders, designed to quiet the dominant creative mind; future generations may not have poets, artists, musicians and writers like the creative geniuses of generations long ago. Thanks for reacting to this song.
HI from Australia, Vincent died 1890. Self inflicted gun shot to chest, may I say Vincent Van Gogh is my favourite artist of all time it's very sad he only became famous after he died.❤
💥 Definitely one of my favorite songs of all time. So glad someone is doing a reaction video to this one. SHALOM. Vincent Van Gogh a artistic genius with an incredible soul. Should try watching a documentary about it. SHALOM
I always took the line "they did not listen they did not know how, perhaps they'll listen now", to be a direct reference to Vincent cutting off his ear.
It's very refreshing to have reactors like you completely GET the lyrics and understand this is about Vincent Van Gogh and his work and the suffering he lived with. This IS an incredible living tribute from one artist to another and the melody is also gorgeous. This is a legendary song and deserves to be so.
TRIVIA:: As famous rapper Tupac lay there dying,, He asked this song be played for him & they did,, It was his absolute favorite song...R.I.P. Vincent & Tupac. 🙏❤️
Interesting. Who would have thought.
@charlier711 Well,, when you think about it,, Tupac loved poetry,, art & music,, And this song has all 3.
One was an artist and one was a wannabe gangster who made nursery rhymes.
And The Winner Of "The Most Ignorant & Disrespectful Comment" Contest Is....
@@shaynewest8757which one?
The most beautiful song of the seventies, without a doubt.
Mmmm....I've got to go with Afternoon Delight.
Beautiful and sad, it reflects the madness suffered by many creative artists. Genius and insanity often go hand in hand. Brian Wilson comes to mind.
What is amazing about this song is that when he isn't talking directly about Vincent he is describing his paintings. Incredible song writing.
It feels like Don is talking and describing his art pieces! Don sings it beautifully 💗.
A lovely tribute to Mr van Gogh
😢this song reminds me of one of my daughters who suffers with mental illness; so heartbreaking 💔
My loving husband took me to see his work in Nashville. It was a virtual work so the paintings occurred on the walls as you sat there. It was truly a beautiful experience. So glad you enjoyed this.
Me husband & I did that virtual display when it came to Boston. It was an incredible experience
@@Jayscollo most definitely
Ya know it was Vincent’s sister in law that saved the day. It was her after the death of Vincent’s brother Theo that saved all if Vincent Van Goth’s paintings . She saved everything. She could have thrown everything away but she didn’t. As the years went by an art dealer from London saw Vincent’s paintings and was blown away with how good they were and afford Her a great deal of money. That’s how the world first became aware of Vincent Van Goth.
My creative writing teacher in high school introduced us to this song and the Starry Night painting, then had us write our own own poems following that experience. This instantly became one of my favorite songs. Thank you Mr. Barone! 💜
You are absolutely right, it is music fitting a poem rather than a poem put to music.
You two can take a bow for this reaction. You conveyed the meaning of the song so well.
Don McLean is a deeply insightful songwriter and a true troubador. His albums are full of pleasing melodies and meaningful lyrics.
This song is perfect.
This is probably one of my top 10 favorite songs ever...Don McLean's poetry is descriptive and so deep... It just fits so well into his songs...great reaction, guys...I really enjoyed this one... Keep Being Awesome !!!...
It's my favorite song of all time. I shed tears each time I hear it. ❤
Yes Sam, Don's lyrics are describing Vincent's paintings as he tells the tragic story of Vincent's life.
I cry every time I hear this song.
Don McLean is a brilliant songwriter ❤. He's written some beautiful songs over the years. Many of them covered by other big artists ❤ Vincent is a Masterpiece from Don McLean.
When he reaches the "no hope was left in sight..." line I have to give in to the tears every time I listen to this song. I cry every time; 50+ years and the sad beauty of that line has never failed to bring the tears.
Only Vincent's brother Theo, truly came to understand his artistry while Vincent was alive. After he died by his own hand, and some time had passed, others began to appreciate his painter's style.
Sadly Theo died within a few years of Vincent, and his Theo's wife fortunately kept his work together and made sure much of it was saved
There is a possibly valid theory that he was shot by a young boy, possibly accidentally. Vincent didn't want to get the kid in trouble as he lay dying.
Oh gosh, y’all……I love love love this song. Such a beautiful song that moves me to tears most of the time. 😊❤glad you picked this one ❤
There is another lyric video on YT that show many of his paintings referred to in the song. Worth a look.
Beautiful Song and Don was huge in the 70's
The fact that these lyrics perfectly describe Vincent van Gogh's paintings is so good! There's another lyric video on UA-cam that uses all the paintings as a background to the lyrics, pointing out that link between the art and Don's lyrics.
This song will choke up anyone with a soul.
Such a great song by Don McLean! It is his tribute to the sad life of the painter Vincent Van Gogh. He suffered from depression & committed suicide. He never saw any success during his life. But now his paintings are worth millions of dollars.
Somewhere on UA-cam, there is a clip from the TV show "Dr. Who" where Vincent is taken by time travel to an art gallery where his beautiful art is displayed. Another shows most of the pictures referenced in the song. They add so much to the song. I still tear up when I listen to it. There is a word error: the line "and when no hope was left in sight..." it should be "inside."
All too forgotten classic... Thank you for reacting to 'Vincent'.
Pure poetry!
The calm comforting voice reminds me of a pastor presiding at a memorial service!
The Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam is absolutely amazing.
An artist on an artist.
This song has been a core song for me since I was kid. Much of Van Gogh’s work was done within a two year period, as an artist no one could depict wind and movement like he did, all done within his unique style. (Monet lived into his eighties and produced a lot of technically brilliant work, but which I find is sterile to look at).
We now think of Van Gogh as one of the greatest painters that ever lived, it’s a shame it took long to realise that - which is what this song conveys.
Don McLean’s American Pie album is awesome too. Every track, albeit not released as a single, is superb.
There is a 1956 film about Van Gogh starring Kirk Douglas, titled LUST FOR LIFE.
Fantastic movie!
Such a beautiful on such a sad and tragic topic. After listening to this song, you cannot look at Vincent's art the same way. In Europe, they pronounce his name 'Van Goff'. Supposedly this was Tupac's favorite song. There was also a Dr. Who episode where they meet Vincent, and it is one of the very best episodes.
There is a video that matches the paintings with the song to really bring into focus the lyrics.
Saw the traveling Van Gogh exhibit two years ago. They put some of his paintings in motion and they look like that's how they were meant to be seen. He painted many self portraits over the years and most make him appear quite sad. He also would paint random people in the village where he lived and you feel like you can see into their souls.
The starry night that was his inspiration for the famous painting was one he saw through the bars on his window at the asylum he was in at the time.
That traveling exhibit was amazing… To be standing and having the artwork build stroke by stroke around.you.
This has always been my favorite song. I've listened to it countless times, but every single time I'm moved to tears as if I heard it for the first time.
The letters written between Vincent and his younger brother Theo are so beautiful and filled with love and support. He suffered from depression and alcohol abuse. The treatments for these were not helpful during that time and he finally ended his own life at the age of 37. During his short life though he painted more than 2100 works.
One of the most beautiful songs ever written.
One should watch the video with van gough’s paintings to truly appreciate this song.
"Vincent" is many peoples favorite song.
My very favorite painting is Starry Night...💜💜💜
First pronounciation on van Goch is PERFECT
Yes, very refreshing to hear americans pronounce his name right for a time😁
Masterpiece.
I’ve always cried during this song, and hearing your thoughts makes that song have such a deeper emotional response. Love you guys ❤
This is the one I suggested not too long ago! I'm glad y'all managed to get to it sooner than I ever expected. I'm sure someone else brought it up as well. Cheers!
Both Phi and Samantha would make great DJs or radio hosts. There's something about their voices that I find soothing.
True about Samantha. Phil speaks too formally and stiffly, like he's trying too hard. Its like he's sitting on a pinecone or something.
I remember many years ago I was reading about a lady in France who was the oldest human ever confirmed and documented in history and her name escapes me but she said her parents had owned a store in France where they sold painting supplies. She said when she was 14 she wanted on Vincent when he came into the store for supplies. She said he was unkempt and slovenly and was not very nice at all.
There is a video that shows the lyrics and Vincent's paintings at the back, then you see how Don McLean describes Vincent's work. It's beautiful.
That's a real tear jerker....
Fantastic song!! It’s always been one of my favorites.
Vincent van Gogh, Dutch painter (1853-1890)
such a beautiful hauntingly sad song! ♥
"Lust For Life" (1956, in color) starring Kirk Douglas (father of Michael Douglas) is a biopic on Vincent Van Gogh, rated from 3 1/2 to 4 1/2 stars and a movie worth watching. Also, director Robert Altman did his version of a biopic on Van Gogh, quite different in emphasis, and well worth watching also; this a 1990 film titled "Vincent & Theo" (Theo being his supportive brother).
the doctor who episode with van gogh was also great
Another great film is "Loving Vincent," animated entirely in hand-painted oil paintings drawn from Vincent's work.
Excellent and thoughtful reaction to a brilliant song.
I took my niece to see van goughs art and she was struck by how think the paint is gooped on! Amazing its multi- dimensional.
He made different appearances on the Midnight Special tv show.. It is really cool to see him in that prime era
Just like the actor James Dean became so legendary and popular due to the drama of his untimely death in a car accident at the peak of his career, I think the drama surrounding Van Gogh's mental illness made him much more popular and legendary than he otherwise would have ever been. Where's Davinci's and Picaso's dedicated songs? And countless others whose talent way surpasses Van Gogh's (and that's an opinion held by many true connoisseurs of art). I suppose not cutting off ones ear is not a great marketing deision.
The time signatures are amazing in this song always changing.
No joke: this was Tupac Shakur's favorite song, and his family played it for him while he was on his deathbed.