I recall as a young man sitting in a bar with my 17 year old girlfriend, Angela, when this song came on the juke box. Fell in love with it immediately. The bar would fall into silence as it played. I said to Angela "If we ever have a son I'd like to call him Vincent". She agreed. Vincent will be 50 years old next month. This song will always hold special place in my soul.

One of the most beautiful empathetic songs ever written....

Vincent started his life as a priest. He was sent to a very poor area of France where he fell in to despair over what he felt was his inability to bring comfort to these poor and often starving people, and he begin to drink heavily. He also started sketching scenes of the local area and its people using charcoal on paper. His brother Theodore saw the talent he had for this and begin to buy him paints so he could paint in colour. He left the priesthood and took up painting full time and his brother became his agent. Despite this he never sold a painting in his lifetime. He became good friends with several other French impressionist art like Monet and Renoir and the would trade painting with each other. His drink of choice was Absinthe which at that time was fairly addictive and his favorite colour was yellow which is made of chromium, a poisonous heavy metal. He used to lick his brushes and this absorption of paints plus the Absinthe were attributed to the deterioration both physically and mentally of this fragile but brilliant man. Today, most of his works are in major galleries or museums and those that come up for sale in the open market sell for many millions of dollars. Loved your reaction to Don McLeans's song about him, he deserves every tear.

This song makes me tear up every time. I love Van Gogh's paintings. His work changed my life.

In a manic episode, Vincent tried to poison himself by swallowing paint and turpentine, literally trying to kill himself with color ..and a few weeks later he was using the same tubes of paint to paint the masterpiece "Starry Night"..

Roberta Flack went to a Don McClain concert and she wrote and sang “killing me softly with his song” for him.

been around this song since its release in 1971 and it still never fails to move me. Thank you for this great reaction Sarah!

Scattered through the 50's 60's and 70's you'll find songs with substance. This is one of them. Glad you got it...

A beautiful song written and sung by Don who also had his own battles with depression. His poetry is sublime.

Vincent “Portraits hung in empty halls.” The saddest part of Vincent’s story is that he never knew how famous he would be. He sold one painting to his brother for practically nothing. He died penniless and alone, and never knew his paintings would sell for millions. He never knew his paintings would be in every school in the world, every library in the world, he never knew how important they were. He never knew how much his paintings would change the world. Keep putting yourself out there in the world, it could make a difference one day, even if you don’t see it in your lifetime.

I'm 61 years old and have listened to the song countless times . It still brings a tear after all these years

This song always makes me cry from the first time i heard this song until now i am 69 years old

I truly appreciate you giving recognition to this great artist.

There are some songs that are simply perfect. This is one of them.

One of my favorite songs. He put the man’s feelings into words. That’s not easy to attain with such grace and finesse.

Those are all Van Gough paintings and so beautiful especially when the song references them.

Vincent van Gogh was a wonderful painter with many mental problems. His paintings will live forever. Don McLean wrote this beautiful song about Vincent van Gogh.

Life in 70s was so simple too, we had really great songs..so happy I was a teen then

Vincent Van Gogh only sold one painting in his whole tragic life. Now a painting by him can be auctioned off for millions of dollars. I'm a 75 year old grandmother and I remember when this song was new in 1971. It still makes me weep.

The painting Starry Nights by Vincent van Gogh is worth over 100 million Eros today.

You are such a precious soul. God bless you.

Thank you. I'm a old guy now, but when I was young I took art classes and while I got good grades, I had no talent. But it did give me a good eye for art and a appreciation for people who did have the talent I lacked. I read in the paper that the "Getty "museum had purchased "Irises "( at the time it was the most expensive painting ever sold) . I went to the museum on a weekday not expecting to see it as the painting was not expecting to see it as it was not scheduled to be hung for another week. Imagine my surprise when I turned a corner and there it was just 5 or 6 feet in front of me. And I was the only one there. I don't know how long I stood there, but the photos didn't do it justice . Fantastic!! If you're ever in Los Angeles I highly recommend going to see it. Closer to you the Van Goth museum in Amsterdam (I think) has the largest collection of his work. I really like your channel . I'm a 72 year old and am a bit surprised that I can relate to someone your age so often. Sometimes You take me back to when I first heard the songs you play. Thank you for that too. Keep listening to the "oldies" .

As a painter the total desperation of an artistic visionary who remained obscure in his lifetime will continue to resonate throughout time, because he defined something that wasn't fashionable or saleable. And only time has rehabilitated him. This is his ultimate tribute.

This song still touches my heart all these years later. Vincent was ahead of his time artistically. The world caught up to his vision and now his art is worth hundreds of millions of dollars.

They are listening now Vincent. ❤

I tear up and I have seen this particular video maybe 100 times now. Van Gogh is my favorite artist and went through hell, in days before there were pharmaceuticals for mental illness. So sad. It is pure poetry genius on Don McLean's part.

Truly one of the most moving songs ever written, about the harsh logical world's inability to understand anyone that isn't as materialistic as them.

Beautiful art and beautiful music, can’t ask for much more than that.❤

Beautiful reaction! One of the most beautiful songs ever written and performed. This video, with Vincent's paintings, just amplify the total beauty of the song.😅

Vincent didn't start painting till he was 27 years old. In the last 10 years of his life (he died at 37 years old.) he painted well over 2,000 paintings. Possibly more. He sent many of his paintings to his mother who threw them in the trash. There has been some recent evidence that he migh have been murdered and not committed suicide. But no matter how he died he was a genius. And Don Mclean deservers props for bringing him to the front. I love them both. Thanks for the video. Love and Peace.

Beautiful - exactly the kind of reaction McLean wanted.

Can't listen to this without " crying " Imagine hearing this on the radio at least one time per week. That was the 70's.

Beautiful moving song, sung equally beautifully and emotionally by the great singer song writer Don Maclean. My regret to this current day is that i have never been to an exhibition by one of the great masters. Where i live means i would have to travel a fair way to get there, but i hope some day to make it. Vincent Van Gough would be at the top along with a Monet or Manet exhibition. His vivid intense bright colours are so powerful with the scenes that he painted. Maybe at times there is a sacrifice to pay for being a Genius. He will always be remembered for sure. Maybe that's the gift that he was to give to the world. Thank you for your reaction

One of the most powerful songs, Beautifully written and performed by Don.

You have to react to McLean's epic "American Pie", which is the greatest songwriting achievement ever. This song is a tribute to Vincent Van Gogh and references his masterpiece painting "The Starry Night", whuch os valued today in upwards of $100 million dollars. Also check out: "Castles In The Air", "Dreidel", and "And I Love You So".

This is the best song ever written. Every time I hear it I cry. I relate to it.

I am 86 years old and I remember where I was and when it was that I first heard this song. Actually it was on the radio. I reacted as you are now. Listening to it today. I still feel everything that I felt then. It was and is a masterpiece. It is the song for yesterday, today and tomorrow.

I think that this may be the most gloriously beautiful song ever written. A masterpiece for all time.

The song came out in 1971. It's about the legendary Dutch artist Vincent Van Gogh...he died in 1890 at the age of 37. He killed himself after years of poverty and mental illness. He is renowned around the world...and his artwork sells for MILLIONS of dollars.

Two of the best artists in the world. Vincent and then Don. I don't think the world will ever see such talent again.

The most beautiful song ever written. ♥

I've been listening to this song ever since it was produced. I cry. Every. Single. Time.

Vicent Van Gogh struggled with mental health and struggled to be accepted as a serious artist in his lifetime and died in poverty. The irony is that now his paintings are worth millions.

"And I Love You So," is a Gem by Don McLean. Listen to it you will not be disappointed

By adding Vincent's paintings to the video, the meaning come alive.

Sarah, I’m 70 years old and remember when this song was released. I’ve listened to it hundreds of times and depending on my frame of mind I’m either teared up or bawling my eyes out. Truly beautiful music/poetry.

I can’t listen to this without waves of emotion flooding over me, but I love this poetic song, and such a beautiful melody. Wonderful reaction, thank you!❤

This song is Vincent's paintings set to words and music. If you ever get the chance visit Vincent's paintings, will change your life❤

When a song can make your eyes water , you know it touched your soul .

I remember the first time I heard it. I was in shock at how accurate he captured Vincent's beauty and his love. Cried and cried. The truth of the song was so true. But look how many heart's Vincent has touched now.

Why the Doctor Who episode is so beloved: it shows the impossible, letting Van Gogh see the impact of his paintings. It's in the nature of genius to have to believe one day the world will understand.

I've loved this song since it first came out. As an emotional teen back then, I could really relate to it. I still love this song and am so glad to be past all the emotions and dramas of youth. Thank you for playing this Sarah.

Awe Sarah, I think you are one of the people who listen. Thank you for such a lovely reaction.....Vincent would have loved that Don Mclean sang about him and a lovely lady like you understood and reacted the way you you have.... you have made my evening.

I am Dutch and I vividly remember the moment 15 years after Don had written this song and having heard it dozens of times, I realized it was about Vincent van Gogh. I was at home, sitting at the table with tears rolling down my cheeks.

This lyric is so emotionally powerful that it might not dawn on listeners at first that they're hearing an absolutely beautiful melody. Masterpiece.

Not many people get it, hearing this the first time. Congratulations, you did! So happy to see your reaction, rather than watching people who don't even understand what the song is even about.

I've completely forgotten this song, when I was a kid my mom had this record album, that's what we called them in the 1970's. Great to hear it again while watching your reaction, beautiful song about a troubled, genius of a man.

Beautiful, beautiful video. First daffodils but then human pain and suicide. A beautiful video. Don Maclean is 78 and still alive. I hope he sees this video to see how much his song was perceived, honored, and felt.

Sarah's unabashed amazement and wonder at this masterpiece of music was a joy to watch.

Gorgeous song! 😊

ISN’T THAT THE MOST MOVING SONG/STORY LYRICS MUSIC, VERY MOVING

Great review/reaction. So honest and emotional for such a beautiful and sad song. There's a live version that is also great if you wanted to "see his face" when he sings it.

One of my favorites but him,and Vincent Van Gogh is my favorite artist.I know when I hear this song going to play,I need tissues because I will cry for Vincent every time.

Still gives me the chills loved it

Such a beautiful song, and a beautiful reaction. ❤

Truly beautiful, and poetic. An astonishing track. Thank you Don. Thank you Vincent. Rest In Peace now that people ARE listening to you.

Thank you so much for this video!! I’m 63 and never knew what this song was about til now!! Your AWESOME💥👍🥳💜

Vincent van Gogh when he was alive only sold one painting. The painting sole for lass then 16 euro . Now his works, it's worth millions of dollars those days .

This is a reaction girl, listen as much as you want. One of the most touching songs written, loved your reaction keep it up.

If you haven't heard it, listen to The " American Pie " album by Don McLean ! All these songs are on there - beautiful songs with poignant lyrics. Songs like Winterwood - The Grave - Sister Fatima etc etc ! Don McLean wrote many wonderful songs like " Crying ".

Grazie, carissima Sarah, per questa meravigliosa canzone! La ricordo da quando ero bambino ed era appena uscita (era l'anno 1972). Complimenti per oil tuo bellissimo canale e perché sei una persona molto emotiva e speciale! Saluti. Giovanni

Hi Sarah, As usual a beautiful heartfelt performance to this classic that is sheer poetry. I loved this song on first hearing when I was 14 and I still love it now at nearly 66! There is a live version of this with Don and just his acoustic guitar which is absolutely stunning!! Thank you and best wishes from the UK.

The movie "Lust for Life" is one of my most favorite movies.... the sadness and madness of Van Gogh. Staring Kirk Douglas.... 1956. One of the extras in the movie, knew Van Gogh, she said Douglas looked and behaved so much like Van Gogh she was amazed. She met Douglas and told him how amazed she was. The movie is a must see.... sad and amazing, deep and liberating, dark and illuminating all in the same instant.💜

A masterpiece from many years ago. The stuff that does not get made today, you are very right .

Love your review,Vincent one of the greatest artist ever,the song is really touching.

This song has always touched my soul . It is so beautiful,the absolutely amazing poetic lyrics ,the beautiful melody and the voice of Don McLean . Thank you so much for your touching gentle reaction .

I’m 73 male and read Vincent’s life storey 40 years ago and the song still moves me to tears, so be glad you’ve found beauty! In voice vision and words!

That was the best video you could possibly have chosen for this song. Better than any "official" version.

My favourite artist of all time. This song always makes me cry.

Your emotion and reaction combined with that beautiful voice and lyrics has put me over the edge. Crying like a baby right now 😢😔

I forgot how beautiful this song was. Truly one of the most heartfelt songs ever written. Thank you Don and thank you Sarah.

This is a a beautiful song. It is about Vincent van Gogh. He was an artist. He had a hard time selling his art no matter how hard he tried. His brother supported him and sold his art when he found someone interested. His art was very good only in those days they didn't appreciate it as much as we do today. He fought depression and drank a lot. I cry every time I hear this song. Today van Gogh's work s are among one of the most expensive arts today.

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.

Great song and an excellent reaction, Sarah. I really enjoy your reactions. Good luck, and stay well.

this song was about Vincent Van Gogh a famous artist who suffered so much during his life. Don MCLeqn sings with song with such emotion

I had the opportunity to visit the Van Gogh museum in Amsterdam in 1984. I remember it being a circular building with 4 or 5 levels and the paintings were placed in chronological order. I noticed how as time progressed, his work became more " unconventional " . I've always attributed that to the progression of his illness affecting his artistry. It was a stunning and stirring experience. Thank you for leaving us your gifts, Vincent.

In an episode of Dr Who ,the Doctor brought Vincent into the 20th century to see an exhibition of his paintings and how much he was loved and appreciated The scene was so touching and brought me to tears of pure joy BTW I just love the song

What this singer has done is paint a picture, with all the descriptions of colors and landscapes, even when he says "reflect in Vincent's eyes of China blue", which is so beautiful . He is painting a picture of Vincent's life. The irony of Vincent's life is that during the whole time that he lived, he only sold one small painting (and that to another painter) for 25 dollars equivalent, but not long ago, one of his paintings sold for 117.5 million dollars ! I love your reaction to this song . If you want to see Don McLean singing this; there is a video of him singing it when he was young. The video is titled DON Mc LEAN - VINCENT .

There is a glorious film called "LOVING VINCENT", an animation following the death of Vincent Van Gogh using his paintings and a picture of his final days through people who knew him. Worth seeing, it is as meaningful as this song. The lyrics of this song are some of the greatest ever written.

Beautiful ❤️

Makes today's lyrics seem a bit shallow at times. I love your beautiful reaction to the music. Thank you for sharing it with us!

Killing Me Softly was written about Don McClean

Great reaction. As other mentioned by others please listen to "American Pie". Suggest you look at what the lyrics reference to enjoy the song fully.

Thank you for this. Iwatched Don McLean live on a theatre stage in Seattle, many many years ago. I brought me to tears then and still does. he's an American treasure.

I have only ever heard you react to Elvis and are my favourite reactor. To see you play and react to this is a joy. The words depict Vincent Van Gogh perfectly. Don McClean has the perfect voice and it is iconic. Thank you Sarah ❤

Dear Sarah old guy here and been listening to this song for ever. Always thought of it as a lovely song. Thank you for introducing me to the poem within the song.

I am a 63 yr old lady. When I was young I played guitar and played this song a lot. I Don McLean was very popular

Such an epic song from Don McLean, a brilliant singer & has many more songs. Still alive too!!

Sarah is such a loving and lovely soul.

I once stood alone in a huge, darkened, gallery room, containing 1 painting only. A single, soft spot illuminating the massive Vincent's "Starry Night" canvas; I was engulfed. For that moment in time, I was in his world with him. I still cry when remembering that gift, one of the dearest moments in my life.