S.O.D. "Vincent" by Don McLean

3/9/15     Written as a tribute to Vincent Van Gogh, McLean explained that in 1970 while reading Van Gogh's biography he was compelled to write a song arguing that the artist was not crazy.  This song is also known as "Starry Starry Night" which is the opening line and the reference to Van Gogh's painting "The Starry Night".  Other works of the artist are mentioned as well and truly shows the deep seated admiration McLean had for not only his art but Van Gogh himself.  There are also references to his sanity and suicide-"suffered for his sanity" and "took his life as lovers often do"- as Van Gogh was plagued with mental disorders.  

     He was not recognized as an artist until after his death which is referenced in the song as "they would not listen/they did not know how/perhaps they'll listen now", and in the final course, "they would not listen/they're not listening still/perhaps they never will".  It is understood by many that Van Gogh was trying to set people free with the message in his works.  

     Written by McLean and released in 1971, it went to #1 in the UK, #12 on the U.S. Singles chart and up to #2 on the Easy Listening chart.  McLean started playing music at a young age and befriended the members of the band, The Weavers. He recorded his first studio sessions with singer Lisa Kindred, an American folk and blue singer while still attending prep school.  McLean's biggest hit was of course "American Pie."