James Blake - Vincent (Official Video)
Cover of Don McLean's 'Vincent'.
Filmed and recorded live at Conway Studios, Los Angeles, December 2017.
Director Andrew Douglas
Producer Kathleen Heffernan
Director of photography Flor Collins
Editor Biff Butler
Color Brandon Chavez
Assume Form
The new album by James Blake. Out now.
Listen at assumeform.com
Follow James Blake:
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Twitter: / jamesblake
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www.jamesblakemusic.com
Lyrics
Starry, starry night
Paint your palette blue and grey
Look out on a summer's day
With eyes that know the darkness in my soul
Shadows on the hills
Sketch the trees and the daffodils
Catch the breeze and the winter chills
In colours on the snowy linen land
Now I understand
What you tried to say to me
And how you suffered for your sanity
And how you tried to set them free
They would not listen, they did not know how
Perhaps they'll listen now
Starry, starry night
Flaming flowers that brightly blaze
Swirling clouds in a violet haze
Reflect in Vincent's eyes of china blue
Colours changing hue
Morning fields of amber grain
Weathered faces lined in pain
Are soothed beneath the artist's loving hand
Now I understand
What you tried to say to me
And how you suffered for your sanity
And how you tried to set them free
They would not listen, they did not know how
Perhaps they'll listen now
For they could not love you
But still your love was true
And when no hope was left in sight
On that starry, starry night
You took your life, as lovers often do
But I could've told you, Vincent
This world was never meant for one as beautiful as you
Starry, starry night
Portraits hung in empty halls
Frameless heads on nameless walls
With eyes that watch the world and can't forget
Like the strangers that you've met
The ragged men in ragged clothes
The silver thorn on the bloody rose
Lie crushed and broken on the virgin snow
Now I think I know
What you tried to say to me
And how you suffered for your sanity
And how you tried to set them free
They would not listen, they're not listening still
Perhaps they never will
#JamesBlake
Sometimes, you come across something perfect. It doesn't happen often, but when it does, you're completely sure of it. This is perfect.
Attention Well said 👌🏽
Sydney, i'm glad you agree! 😄
One of the few times the cover is better than the original
listen to jasmine thompson's version of the cover
Attention PERFECTYLY SAID
Some people come back here at night when they feel lonely & misunderstood. I am one of them. Peace to all.
This just made me cry. And I know it's weird to say, but I loved the feeling. Sometimes we need to feel the melancholy; it's part of our humanity.
Emmanuel Abara Benson EXACTLY!!
cried too
its called catharsis!! to rehearse that pain and sorrow is important to learn
What a beautiful way to bring feelings to center stage. Life is beautiful, not perfect, sometimes painful ....but beautiful indeed.
Cathartic. I have to go outside and cried like a.. I howled, and feel fantastic.
Listened to this last night, and found out my brother passed this morning.. Thank you for this Christmas gift, james... And please remember folks, mental illness is a real thing.. Please don't wait for your loved ones to ask for help, be the one to reach out and keep touch.
Andrew Cox yeah late sorry for your loss
❤️
❤️
So sorry to hear about your brother. Stay strong! Hugs to you.
5 years ago I started on the same path you have to walk, without having your brother with you anymore, due to the same reason. Hope you're well, and healing my friend.
2days ago our Loving Friend /Brother VINCENT Is no longer here with us . Skitzophrinia tricked him into such a state and taking his own life. He was is such a beautiful person. Had not 1 evil bone in his body . Vincent he was tormented so bad to have to feel like taking his own life. But I won't claim he took his own life it was a battlefield in his mind . Insanity My heart goes out to any one who gets so low to feel that despair. God please look over all our children . And Family s . Protect us Lord . For these are paralysis times . I've prayed. For God our Father and Jesus King of Kings to go find him please and he will cyou and realize you are real and without a doubt love you like all of us ! Do ! R I P Vincent Texas
His voice is a wonderful combination of control and delicacy.
Best description of his voice.
@@DoartYT In replying to your comment I watched it again, the part so delicate and pure "And when no hope was left in sight on that starry starry night, you took your life, as lovers often do" it just broke my heart a little.
Ann Kokkoris that's a tough one...
We are so lucky to have witnessed James Blake in our lifetime. Thank you!
That line "This world was never made for one as beautiful as you" always gives me chills. Its so poignant when you think about loved ones that have passed. It takes a lot to cover a song like this, but you nailed it, James! Love the emotion in your voice that brings each word to life 💜
To anyone reading this who doesn’t know; he’s got an upcoming residency on the BBC Radio 1 with his collective 1-800-Dinosaur; highly suspect he’ll be dropping wonderful Blake/Harmonomix gold there. First one starts on Jan 25th. lol, who lives in LA and wants to have a listening party? 🕺🏼
james Blake and garrett watts, two of my favourite people
omg yas garrett I didn't know you're a james blake fan! love your videos with shane :) james blake is literally my favorite artist im in love with him
idk what to say I love vincent van gogh i love james blake this is too much concentrated magic
I’m soooooo ready omg
Wow, faves
I have never, in my entire life heard a more beautiful version of a song. Your voice painted a picture in my minds eye that broke my heart. I cried for Vincent and I cried for you knowing that you felt this song to the depths of your soul. Thank you for the most beautiful musical gift I have ever witnessed.
A year and a couple of months ago I was working in London (originally from California) for about two months. My girlfriend came out for a week and we were walking through covent garden, about 10 pm on a Tuesday I believe it was. (I should preface this by saying that My best friend who I hadn’t seen in years had just shown me this cover/song about a week or two before I got on the plane). We were both pretty drunk and these two street performers were just wrapping up this song as we were walking by and I recognized it immediately. I was going to ask them to play it over, but I didn’t have ANY cash/coin whatsoever to donate to respectfully ask them to do so. To this very day, my greatest regret is that I didn’t just go up to them and beg them to play their rendition one more time so I could hear it from beginning to end. This is a beautiful song and cover, but I can only imagine how lovely it would have been to hear it live by two wonderfully random performers on a brisk ass autumn night. FUCK
I literally cannot listen to this without getting teary eyes.
Starry eyes🥺
still not over the fact that james is singing a song about van gogh tho, they're both my fave artists in their respective fields i'm crying in the club
arwen undomiel I'm crying alone on Christmas.. but it's somehow ok... he makes it ok. I just love him..
It's crazy
same here i mean, any sane artist should worship Van Gogh
why you in the club listening to this on your phone??
@@michaelroberts1056 i am crying in the club is a meme popular in twitter 👌
This, my friend, is why covers should never cease to exist. This version gives me goosebumps, that voice and emotions conveyed, and all the subtle changes and variations are so good!!!
Starry, starry night Paint your palette blue and gray Look out on a summer's day With eyes that know the darkness in my soul Shadows on the hills Sketch the trees and the daffodils Catch the breeze and the winter chills In colors on the snowy linen land Now I understand What you tried to say to me And how you suffered for your sanity And how you tried to set them free They would not listen, they did not know how Perhaps they'll listen now Starry, starry night Flaming flowers that brightly blaze Swirling clouds in violet haze Reflect in Vincent's eyes of china blue Colors changing hue Morning fields of amber grain Weathered faces lined in pain Are soothed beneath the artist's loving hand Now I understand What you tried to say to me And how you suffered for your sanity And how you tried to set them free They would not listen, they did not know how Perhaps they'll listen now For they could not love you But still your love was true And when no hope was left in sight On that starry, starry night You took your life, as lovers often do But I could've told you Vincent This world was never meant for One as beautiful as you Starry, starry night Portraits hung in empty halls Frame-less heads on nameless walls With eyes that watch the world and can't forget Like the strangers that you've met The ragged men in ragged clothes The silver thorn of bloody rose Lie crushed and broken on the virgin snow Now I think I know What you tried to say to me And how you suffered for your sanity And how you tried to set them free They would not listen, they're not listening still Perhaps they never will
My heart breaks in to a million bits each time i hear 3:51
Uu
qaaq
Gracias......
Don Maclean is a lot like VanGogh. Great songwriter with many works, not just American Pie.
Imagine Vincent hearing this ❤️
oh yeah
It’s crazy how he has no idea the impact he’s has on the world. But we know. I always wonder if that will happen to me somehow.
the texture in his voice when he say's 'paint your palette' is so beautiful
The right feeling for Vincent. Except the original one, most of others are singing with sweet or different voice but not included the sad feeling for Vincent. The whole songs can feel sad and sorry for him. Love this one for giving the right feeling.
Soo touching
You are right he absolutely nailed it and so many others butcher it and give it the self indulgent hallelujah treatment.
I LOVE ANYTHING JAMES BLAKE SINGS OR PLAYS❤❤❤❤
It's a really great performance, but it's a shame that so few of the comments are mentioning Don McClean, the original genius behind this beautiful song
I love Don McLean ,he and his songs were part of my teenage years and this song by him was brilliant!
Don Mclean is so under appreciated... Vincent is the first song that brought a tear to my eyes... and still remains the only song to do so.
Don McLean will ALWAYS be remembered by such a wonderful tribute by one who was inspired to make sure it was honored.
But when they do find out, they have made a full circle of appreciation of three artist who are truly a part of this version
I saw Don perform this live. It was lovely
Beautiful.
“And when no hope was left inside, on that starry starry night, you took your life as lovers often do; but I could’ve told you Vincent, this world was never meant for one as beautiful as you.” 🥺
His music has gotten me through this entire year. It's been an extremely difficult one. Simply, beautiful and emotional music.
M. Clark weeping may endure in the night.. but joy comes in the morning. Your pain is not forever I hope your 2018 is a better one and your experiences shape you into a stronger person
Me too. We are together in this one. Much love.
hope you’re doing ok.
He didn't write it tho it's just a cover if you think he did
UNBELIEVABLE wow, no words
Sitting in a public space whilst listening to this and my eyes are already welling up. Again. I’m such a sucker for this dude’s voice.
Personally, I have always thought that, in some way, the greatness of a musician is also measured by the quality of the songs he decides to cover. In the case of Blake, the taste is always sublime (B. Whiters, D. McLean, J. Mitchell, Feist, Simon & Garfunkel ...).
I hope all of you know that this a cover. Don Mclean (American Pie) originally wrote it and performed it in the fall of 1970. James Blake does a beautiful cover, don't get me wrong. It's also just a beautiful song in general, but let's not forget the original genius who crafted this masterpiece.
that vibrato cures cancer
In the 80s, my Dad used to play this cassette in the car during our family vacations. My parents also introduced me to Van Gogh’s art. I grew up loving his work and finally got to see it in person, in Paris. This song brings back so many wonderful memories.
3:57. Makes me cry everytime... that emotion fits this song perfectly...
Thanks for the being the beautiful Don McLean of this generation. Van Gogh would be smiling from his castle in starry night paradise!
This world was never meant for One as beautiful as you.
The ending of this song is soo shatteringly beautiful
His voice in this video is beyond angelic
Just a couple hours ago I learned that this song was written about Vincent Van Gogh, and I felt compelled to watch the recent movie, “Loving Vincent.” It was beautiful, both visually and emotionally. I thought it was great, one of the best hand-drawn movies I’ve ever seen. Especially when the credits began to roll, and this song began to play. I only wish that they had used this version with James instead of the one they ended up using. Now I’m back and can really appreciate this song for what it means. Vincent was a great man, but extremely misunderstood and looked down upon in his life, and now he’s one of the most famous artists to have ever lived. What a man he was.
Beautiful cover. Don McLean wrote & performed it to perfection.
"For my part I know nothing with any certainty, but the sight of the stars makes me dream." - Vincent Van Gogh For me, the real beauty of Stars is that their message continues to be brighter than the darkness which surrounds them. Stars are there to guide the lost home, and to offer hope for all longing souls.. Will
We are blessed
Amen
yes we are and vincent heard this one.
Tutto l’oro che tocca diventa ancora più prezioso. Immenso Blake.
I´m hoping for a christmas present like these, this year.
The tear drops at exactly 03:56
Piece of art. Aren't we lucky to be able to appreciate all this love, art and life?
This song is a tribute to Vincent Van Gogh by Don McLean. He wrote & composed this sad song, which makes me teary every time I listen to it. James, you performed beautifully singing this song. We all have sensitivity of varying degrees - some of us are less sensitive than others. Me must understand people who are very sensitive, understand & love them. Vincent was very sensitive & had mental illness. Those around him couldn’t understand him. He ended up committing suicide. If those people around him had been more understanding, caring & loving, Vincent might not have committed suicide. We must learn from this song & be understanding, caring & loving for those who are very sensitive.
That was absolutely perfect... One of the most emotional, but minimalistic voices I have heard. His ability to convey so much pain in his singing, while also keeping his voice hardly above a whisper is just phenomenal. Until you try it yourself, you have no idea how difficult singing a song like this, in a vocal cadence like James did actually is...
i've been around a long time and i have never heard a more beautiful version of this song , i just can't stop listening to it
Listening to this again after 2 years and it still brings me to tears.
I had to blindly hunt down this magical version just from hearing a clip of it on Instagram so glad I found it it's the best.
My beautiful cousin Vincent, I miss you so very much that I find ways to still feel you here and remember you with love 💖 18 years without you, losing you in the worst way a family could 💔 Nanny's with you now and I miss you both immensely 💔 love you forever, until we all meet up again 🤗💖
what a Christmas present thank you james ♥️
I can't put in words what his voice does to me. Overwhelmed with emotions and beauty.
You have done Justice to this song about An artist by An artist ... Take a Bow... Artist ! Stellar version you made your own..
I can’t explain the way this lifts my soul, it’s just that certain feeling in the heart.
VvG has been my favorite painter for as long as I can remember. I already love James but him covering this song about Vincent's paintings just makes me so happy.
i dont know why but every christmas i play this song in our house and it just warms my heart
:)
2020! :^]
Starry, starry night! I replay, and replay! 🎶☪
One of the most delightful things I've ever heard
My grandfather's name was Vincent. He was more of my father than my true father. This song... this song......
Thank you for the tenderness.
Jesus Christ.....this is such a beautiful song.
May is mental health month! This is a lovely song. If you are having a problem, call a friend or family. They care. 😊
I could listen to him for the rest of my life
This is the only Christmas present I'm getting, I love it.
Same..
Right?
Me too. But it's more than enough, eh?
Yes, I believe so Seth.
Let's b friends lol
I remember seeing you play this at the Immanuel Presbyterian Church. It was so absolutely beautiful, and it makes me so happy to see this video of you spreading that beautiful performance.
For my Da Starry, starry night Paint your palette blue and gray Look out on a summer's day With eyes that know the darkness in my soul Shadows on the hills Sketch the trees and the daffodils Catch the breeze and the winter chills In colors on the snowy, linen land Now, I understand what you tried to say to me And how you suffered for your sanity And how you tried to set them free They would not listen, they did not know how Perhaps they'll listen now Starry, starry night Flaming flowers that brightly blaze Swirling clouds in violet haze Reflect in Vincent's eyes of china blue Colors changing hue Morning fields of amber grain Weathered faces lined in pain Are soothed beneath the artist's loving hand Now, I understand, what you tried to say to me How you suffered for your sanity How you tried to set them free They would not listen, they did not know how Perhaps they'll listen now For they could not love you But still your love was true And when no hope was left inside On that starry, starry night You took your life as lovers often do But I could have told you, Vincent This world was never meant for one As beautiful as you Starry, starry night Portraits hung in empty halls Frameless heads on nameless walls With eyes that watch the world and can't forget Like the strangers that you've met The ragged men in ragged clothes The silver thorn of bloody rose Lie crushed and broken on the virgin snow Now, I think I know what you tried to say to me How you suffered for your sanity How you tried to set them free They would not listen, they're not listening still Perhaps they never will
This is the most beautiful cover of this song that I've ever heard. THANK YOU!!!
As a person with psychosis or schizoaffective this song touches me to my core. Absurd delusions and the pain of what some have to go through.
This song is touching yes . If you don't mind me asking , how bad is your schizophrenia ....
jhumble777 treated with medications. Fine now.
Though I did have a psychotic episode at its worst.
@@meyerjoseph5901 ok. Good your ok askin because I have the same diagnosis. And it hinders me . Really really hate the situation I'm in man .
jhumble777 I’m sorry to hear that. Are you treated? I do understand the flatness that you may feel with meds.
The perfect song for the 420 nights just before going to bed. Headphones and this lullaby to bring to sleep
Possibly the best breathe taking version of This song ......
From the time I was very small - perhaps a few months old - even before I could understand the lyrics, this song would always make me cry... still does, but I love it none the less... this interpretation is so tender and beautiful... thank you, Mr. Blake 💜
Theres no other musician in the World like James Blake. Man its just beyond beautiful
This World was never meant for one as beautiful as you
Aaaaaahhh what a voice...
LOVE this interpretation of one of my fave songs. So appreciated, James!
God bless this man and his magical voice
Hope no one sees this: I heard this song from a artist online. I fell in love with both the song and the artist’s work. I started obsessing over it to the point where every waking moment I’d spend thinking of them. I had a huge identity crisis. I couldn’t remember who I was or if I’d ever known to begin with. I dissociated for a large part of a long while. I began hurting myself to cope with the loss of who I thought I was and the need to be this person. I can’t say with certainty that things have gotten better. All I know is whenever I hear this song, it hurts.
Dont quite know how i took 5 year's to find this but .............Damn James !!!!! You crushed it . I struggle with a nephew with autism , at times we understand eachother . Yet again at times i cant relate to his frustrations . BEAUTIFUL rendition thank you !
Boy, have I missed that voice.
The choice of the song reflects how amazing of an artist you are.
Why am I crying ... his notes always make me feel so calm and cared for it’s weird ... just makes me very emotional.
Art unfolding art 🌷
Love him and his voice so much! I still can’t forget the night I met James on my birthday in Houston 💕💕 his performance touched my soul ☺️
I'm so glad I found his cover of this song, after watching that movie Loving Vincent I wondered what song played in the end, I thought it was Vincent, and I was right... wonderful performance...
Don McLean would be proud🥺
Speechless. This is simply amazing, breathtaking, heartbreaking. James Blake, thank you! Best version of this song, hands down.
James voice makes my heart melt...💜💜💜💜
One of the most beautifully written songs of all time. It’s always emotional listening to this. My other favourite version is one that’s made as the soundtrack for the movie, Loving Vincent ❤️
This man doesn't know anything about making a bad song!!! I just listened to 5 songs back to back and ALL were seriously beautiful. Would love to see him live
First this song alone is beautiful and this version with Blake’s phrasing found the striking notes that made this even more beautiful to hear.
I have seen this video many many times. For me, this is perfection. A truly beautiful song, wonderful lyrics and an amazing performance by Mr. Blake. A great talent!
Best cover of a song since Jeff Buckley did Hallelujah.
This!
Eric Sherman Baker, I thought Jeff Buckley was the writer of Hallelujah. Who wrote that?
@@kathyhollenbach7413 Leonard Cohen
don mclean -vincent Nice cover!!!🙏🏽✋😘
Lord, this chap is a genius just like Van
I knew Don did this, but coudln't recall where I heard it live as a kid... Garth Brooks. Great song! James as well as Garth have done the song justice.
I would love if he did a whole album of covers using just his voice and piano, the ones he’s done are his most beautiful and well written
What a performance. What a tribute. What a man. Pure beauty, in words and in sound. Thank you James. Truly, thank you for this masterpiece.
I genuinely haven't loved anyone at the piano as much as I love Tori Amos. And now there's James Blake. How absolutely wonderful.
Damn. I wasn't expecting that at all. Awesome cover.
the best cover... you caught the emotion of the song...
Holy moly this hit me hard… These lyrics are like a sunset after a bad storm…
Job well done my good sir. Wow.