Share your stories and memories of Van and his music.
In historic Royal Albert Hall for Vans appearance on Jools 25
Two newspaper reviews of the best concert I've ever been to: Van Morrison, Civic Opera House, Chicago, April 1993
Great time seeing Van in NYC!
In 1978 I went to the cinema and I watched the Band's farewell, the Last Walz.A lot of my favourite artists took part of the show. At that time I was a great fan of Bob Dylan. When Van took the stage and performed Caravan I was totally enthusiastic about his singing and his voice.
This past August 2014 I managed to attend two of Van's special shows at his former school , Orangefield in East Belfast, where he grew up. All the fans who were lucky enough to be at these shows agree that Van and his band were on top form. Van was in great humour and a highlight for most was his amazing "On Hyndford Street". We also had Ballerina and In The Garden, a great set of songs.
My favorite dance song ever! I have to dance whenever I hear Brown Eyed Girl ;)
My very first encounter with Van Morrison happened when I was about 13 yrs, RTE broadcast the Rainbow Concert, which I believe was the very first simulcast in 1974 by BBC. I was entranced by the performance, glued to the screen and it left a huge impression on me.
Some years ago my art illustration instructor gave us a fun class assignment to make a CD cover. I thought this was a good learning experience and I’m proud of my art work. I enjoy listening to Van Morrison’s music and felt inspired to create an illustration for the song "Bright Side of the Road"
I was first turned on to Van at 16 years old. I am now 51, and can only say my appreciation for this man and his incredible talent is usually all I need to turn my day around. I was fortunate to see him perform at the Orpheum in Boston. I cant imagine how it would be to spend a day with this person.
I've been lucky enough to see Van perform in person twice. First at the Fox Theater in Detroit in 2008 and again in 2013 at Nob Hill in San Francisco. Both performances were transcendental experiences! I hope to see him perform in Ireland in 2016.
Just listened again (and again) to "Someone Like You" from a movie soundtrack & am so moved by the beauty of that voice and lyric. Being a brown-eyed girl, I was a fan "back in the day" and now all lit up again ...thank you Van!
As all Vanatics do I see Van related things in everyday life and even have conversations that consist solely of the lyrics of Van Morrison songs. Some examples of the sense of humour of fellow fans and appropriate to the setting up of the Fanwall is the attached photo of the Vanwall racing car.
We are travelling to Belfast then Newcastle, all the way from Australia to hear/see a singer we have enjoyed for over 40 years at the oncert at the Slieve Donard on the 24 Aug. A dream come true, our 'bucket list'.
Here is my sweetest memory of a Van's concert: Solstice at Dunluce, June 2013, with my boyfriend at the Giant's Causeway. It was a special moment to hear 'Sometimes we cry'. I have included a picture of the sunset we saw that day.
In 2002 the Irish Philatelic Service issued "Irish Rock Legends" commemorative stamps. Of course I had to purchase them, and extras of Van. I then had them framed. The middle section is hard to read - it is a write-up of Van. It hangs on my wall surrounded by photos of Warrenpoint, 2007.
Van is a legend. Saw him both nights at Nell's Blues & Jazz Bar, (28/2 & 1/3). What a venue. Small, intimate and completely filled by Van's genius. The guy is still at the peak of his ability...and that voice.... #Legend
Lifelong highlights since our first gig in Detroit at Masonic '74. Astral Weeks Live at the Hollywood Bowl, then 21 of 26 gigs on that tour, seeing Van being inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame by Ray Charles, countless visits in recent years to Ireland to enjoy his home turf
A family together: The parents (Jens & Christa) driving 800 km from Buxtehude to Freiburg. 18.08.2007 - Ganter Brewery, meeting our kids Lea (1984), Nele (1986) and Jos (1989) and VanThe Man. S(w)inging & dancing. Great evening "From the north to the south, ´ya walked all the way." Thanks Van!
So, so many, but this one captures something. A friend writing in the sand, the letters two dozen feet long, "It just is..." It was, of course, summertime in England...
Living in New Zealand, we never thought we would get to see Van live, on a trip to Canada and Alaska back in 2010, we arrived in Vancouver and by sheer luck found out there was a Van Morrison concert in town the next night, bought tickets and saw the show. One of those right place right time moments
How special that my visit to Belfast in March includes the thrill of seeing Van with my daughter who shares my love for Van's artistry as I have for the past 50 years. Truly a blessing.
Van & his music! Grew up listening to "Brown eyed girl", fell totally head over heels with "Moondance", and double albumn/cd "Hymns to the Silence" helped me get through a very tough point in my life. I think it's one of the best thing EVER IN MY LIFE! THANK YOU, Mr. VAN MORRISON
There are days like this. Van Morrison's is playing "Brown Eyed Girl" on the edge of Ireland. I'm dancing with my girlfriend and the smile in her eyes is as beautiful as the rainbow we spied earlier exploring Dunluce Castle. There's a magic in Van's music . . . you know what I'm talking about.
I was 18 when I was first introduced to Van's music. It was Astral Weeks and I was entranced. I still am entranced by the music and the man. I have seen Van in concert 3 times in my life and they have been beautiful times. So thank you Van.....x
The scope and spiritual core of Van's music has virtually been my church for 40 years. I return again and again for transcendance...being in some small way born again every time. And am.
I'm a fan of Van since 1972, when at 16 years of age, I listened for the first time to Astral Weeks. I'm a great admirer of his concerts. I saw him seven times and I'm very excited because on June 6th I will see him again in Italy in Brescia. "Thanks Van....your music helps my life"
I've seen Van more than 20 times , very special gigs at Orangefield School and recently at Lyric Belfast. I also had the pleasure of meeting him at a coffee shop in East Belfast couple years ago, he was lovely , I was thrilled. Going to the Cyprus Ave gig in August , v v special
A perfect combination on a cold evening:
I've attended the last 5 shows Van has done in Boston. They were all unique and they were all an experience. You get lost in his music. I actually run road races to his music because its calming and I'm not thinking about time. I hope he comes back so my nephew can experience him too. He's a big fan
Your music has helped me through the past year of radiation therapy for brain cancer, (glioblastoma). Songs like "If I ever needed someone", "I'll be your lover, too" and "Into the mystic" kept me calm while wearing a tight fitting radiation mask and through countless claustrophobic MRI's. Thanks.
Tus fans en español también te seguimos y estamos encantados con tu nuevo disco de Duets, del que esperamos pueda haber hasta una segunda parte. Saludos desde España.
As a Songwriter Hall of Fame Board member I was so excited when Van was announced as the 2015 Johnny Mercer Award winner. Cannot wait until the June event. Love your Old Black Magic rendition with your Daughter Shana. Congratulations, Johnny would be so happy. See you in two months.
I've been to hundreds of concerts in my life, but my first two -- Van and the Caledonia Soul Orchestra at the Troubadour and Santa Monica Civic in '73 -- are still my favorites! I wasn't old enough to drive yet so my dad had to take me. Now, in my fifties..."it's too late to stop now!" Rave on, Van!
I have been a fan since the Maratime days with THEM. I am now 64 years old and sing The Man's praises daily! to me, he is a latter day Beethoven - "THE MAESTRO" My 32 year old daughter is also a fan. My favourite albums are No Guru, No Method, No Teacher Astral Weeks and A night in San Francisco.
I've been to 12 concerts and hope to see him in New York or Ireland again this Summer. His live shows are magical, moving, and literally life-changing. There is nothing in the world like it! I drew this ink drawing of him and would love to give it to him someday. Thanks Van!
Thank you Van for the absolutely fabulous concert in Warrenpoint Town Hall on Sunday 24th May 2015 , transporting me again to a wonderful celebration of rhythm, blues and heart sharing lyrics, so much appreciate your emptying of yourself to us again.xxx. Also, enjoying your book.x
THE one-of-a-kind Poetic Champion! Thank you for so much great, great music... on The River Of Time, Celtic Swing, Celtic Excavation, Cry For Home... yes, my favorite album is Inarticulate Speech Of The Heart, but they are all favorites... from Them to now. Your music will be played at my wake...
Van you save my soul! Ive been to one concert in San Francisco.My dream came true that night,Van and band were everything I asked for and More! IHope your coming to California Soon(United States)
Congrats on a well deserved honor Sir George! Thank you for sharing your wonderful gift of music with your adoring fans.
Hi Van, many congratulations on your knighthood. I've seen you live many times over the years, have all of your albums. Right back when you were with Them. This is an award to the greatest songwriter in popular music. A day to celebrate your immense talent. Thank you for the music, long may it conti
Congratulations Sir Van and about time too! You've been bringing joy to my life for 40 years now, looking forward to seeing you in concert again some time soon.
Many congratulations on your knighthood. I was so delighted to see it on the news this morning! I have loved your music for 50 years. There is nobody with a voice quite like yours.....especially that raw growl you do at times.....the depth is amazing and gets right into my soul!
Congratulations Sir Van - well deserved recognition of the work of a true Musical Giant - from a lifelong (so far) fan!
My husband and I are so excited to see you next week in Forest Hills for our anniversary. We have waited in anticipation for you to come back to the states... Here comes the (K)night! Sir Van Morrison Congratulations.
Van, Congratulations on your honor of knighthood & the one coming up in the Writers Hall of Fame! I have you loved since first I heard your awesome & amazing voice with your band "Them!" I love so many artists who are incredible, yet you & Dylan remain my very favorites!!! Sadly I've seen u perform!
Great seeing Sir Van bestowed with two well deserved honors this week in NYC!
Sir Van (congratulations!), I saw you live for the first time Friday at Forest Hills, NY. The moment I saw you walk on stage is a moment I will never forget. Your music fuels my soul and I am forever in awe of your words and music. You are the true definition of musician. I wish you well, always
Close Enough For Van & Gregory @ Blenheim Palace , 25.06.15, Sun Sole 'n'Jazz & surroundings to Suit. Cheers to all musicians & crew.
Congratulations Sir Van, Really looking forward to your concert on 20 July next in Slieve Donard to celebrate our 30th wedding Anniversary. Thanks for the magic.
Brown eyed girl-I am looking forward to hearing Van Morrison perform at the Slieve Donard on July 19. One year ago my husband and I pinkie shook & decided to travel from the USA to wherever Van was playing for our 30th wedding anniversary. Imagine our delight when we learned it would be in Ireland.
Van, Thanks for an amazing show in Cork last Thursday!! We had two people in our group who hadn't seen you before, both were blown away. I've been blown away for the last 35 years and have great memories of incredible shows in U.S, Paris, London as well as Ireland...roll on Cyprus Avenue!!!
Wow, I just got back from your show at Ghent jazz. That was the best concert I have ever seen. You are an inspiration.
What a sensational night! We travelled from Melbourne Australia to see Van at the Slieve Donard hotel in Newcastle on 20 July. Just magic.
We just can't seem to get enough ... making our third trip across the pond to Northern Ireland to take part in Van's Birthday Celebration on Cyprus Avenue, and see him perform live in his beloved Belfast one more time. Your music plays a huge role in the soundtrack of our lives. Pix is at Dunluce
Just a few of our many favorites.......
On our way to celebrate Sir Van's 70th at Slieve Donard then a weeks celebrations culminating on storied Cyprus Avenue with a grand gathering of Vanatics Worldwide
My 60th birthday present from my wife, back in 2013, was a Van concert in the Europa Hotel in Belfast. The perfect present!! Such a memorable night for all the right reasons!
Happy birthday Van. You've been the person whose words have, and continue, to fuel my soul on a level which nothing else can. Thank you for so many years of sharing your gift. Much love.
Firstly, many congratulations on your 70th Birthday. Happy Birthday Van the Man from a fan who has followed and loved your music for four decades. All the way from Dubbo, New South Wales, Australia. My life's ambition is to see you live in concert and will have to get over there before long. Cheers!
Dear Van Happy Birthday and may you enjoy many more. "Do not go gentle into that good night Old age should burn and rage at close of day Rage, rage against the dying of the light" (Dylan Thomas) Best wishes, Jeff Ontario, Canada
What a privilege to be at such a fabulous concert on Cyprus Avenue this evening! Very special, very spiritual. Enjoyed it so much! Thank you and happy 70th birthday! Don't stop the music, ever :)
For me Nell's was the best , musically and for atmosphere. To see at Cyprus Avenue was of course unique and unlikely to be repeated. A great day. Rain arrived on cue at 3pm so when he sang "hey, where did we go, days when the rain came", got a bit of a laugh. Best wishes to all Van fans.
Just back from Belfast and the 2 Cyprus Avenue shows. I love Sir Van Morrison most if he is doing *diggadigdigdoyadigs....* and it was beautiful. I'm still speechless. Thank you Sir for the most wonderful shows I've ever seen , will cherish this feeling for ever! Nieuwegein 03 sept. 2015
Planned a visit to the Uk just because we wanted to see Van Morrison play and this time he played at Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire. It was a magical night for us and I think for all who were there. We are very grateful for the experience. Mr. Morrison and The band left us wanting more as usual.
Front Row seats for both concerts on Cyprus Avenue. Amazing. Thank you so much Van. Thank you Eastside Arts. Plum nice day x
Recently my wife was diagnosed with lymphoma, she is doing quite well, we both decided that we had to go see Van in Toronto on September 20, 2015. What a tremendous experience, being able to see one of the most gifted performers ever. This was an emotional, spiritual experience. God bless you Van.
Saw Van Morrison at the last concert he had in San Diego Ca. back in 2010 (date may be wrong I do remember seeing him then). That was one evening that I will always remember & regret the date that I took. She was too young to appreciate the significance of the show. Loved the show, hope he returns.
Seeing Van perform live is mesmerizing. You don't just attend his shows, you experience them in your soul. Van's back to back shows in Toronto this year transcended earthly emotion as he took us to places only known in the astral realm. I can't wait to see Van in Ireland in 2016!
In 2002, my husband was lost to sea at the tender age of 23. He is the one who introduced me to the joy of Van's music, and his music was the soundtrack of our epic journey around Australia in a camper van. Thank you Sir, for bringing him back to me every time you sing.
Van Morrison was the trigger for an unplanned trip to Ireland from Perth in Western Australia. The prospect of a small venue experience was too much to resist, and the reality far surpassed all expectation. Our table was shared with 5 nationalities, such is the universal appeal of The Man
We travelled from Perth, Australia to see Van in Newcastle, Ireland in August 2015 and enjoyed one of the best experiences! We have been fans for many years and the music and sweet sounds of Van and his band will be something we will remember for years to come. Thank you Sir Van!
From May 1st 1974 California State University, Chico homecoming.
A great concert in Newcastle, N Ireland recently; we are fans of many years and travelled all the way from Australia to see the show. Thank you Sir Van!
A fabulous day on Cyprus Avenue, 31 August 2015. An honour to be there. Thanks to Sir Van, the band, the crew and all those who made it possible. It will be forever edged in my memories. A truly special event.
marvellous night at the O2 in London with the magical voices of Van and Tom
Traveling to Dublin from USA to celebrate 40 yrs+ of marriage and attending concert at 3 arena Fri 11/20. Its been 40 yrs since. Last seeing Van. Awesome for sure
Mr. Morrison: I've been a devout follower of your poetry and grace since I was 11-years-old. A couple of years ago I took my now 21-year-old daughter to see/hear you perform at The Ryman Theater in Nashville. Memorable for both our generations. Please grace us again with a visit to Nashville.
I've lived with Let The Slave running in the back of my mind continuously for a long time, unable to locate the song, and You Posted It THANK YOU. Love, another Irish Rover since the 60's, Love you Van Morrison.
I'm from Belfast now living in the remotest part of Montana. When I think about what I miss most about home ... It's seeing Van live in the city of his birth, alongside thousands of besotted fans. He's done more for our city, our country and our culture than you can ever know.
Dear Van, I finally got to see you at the Shrine Autitorium January 15, 2016. Your voice still young, fresh, and vibrant. It was a honor and a pleasure to be there and experience your performance. Thank you for your music that colors my life . Love you ! Happy 70th year! From Louise.
The first time I saw Van was in 1970 at TheFillmore in San Francisco. In the early 90s I saw him at Bimbo's where he gave me this autograph on a napkin. A prized possession. I am a lifetime fan.His music is in my soul. See you this Wednesday at The Fox Theater in Oakland.And Thanks for the memories.
Thank you, Van! It was so great to have you back in the Bay Area. I especially loved hearing you and your daughter perform together. Please visit us again soon!
We saw Van at the Fox Theater in Oakland (18.1.16.) and it was an absolute dream come true. He is an artist through and through, and I will cherish this memory for as long as I live. The night was so magical, that my boyfriend of ten years proposed right after the concert! Thanks a million Van!!
We were lucky enough to be able to travel from San Francisco to Belfast for Van's 70's Birthday shows. Last week Van traveled to SF for my Birthday!! My "Vanatic" friends got me a special cake!!!
PLEASE come to the US!!! You are my ONLY wish on my bucket list!! Come close to Dallas within next 2 years!!! Or 18 months!!!
Having lunch in Holywood today with my wife and father-in-law, we met Van who was sitting at the next table. I asked him if my wife could have her photo taken with him. He couldn't have been any nicer about it and she even got his autograph. A legend and a gentleman :)
My little drawing as a tribute to Van…Hope You’ll like it.
A thousand congratulations on today's recognition,this long overdue,your music has touched millions of people over the years.May you continue in good health so that you can go on for many more years,looking forward to your next show. The photos of you and Shana are stunning,you both look so happy.
Don't Look Back, Van and John Lee Hooker. Pure genius. Thank you.
I've been your fan since "Brown-eyed Girl, Into The Mystic to Just Like Jane & Common One. I recently turned a friend of mine onto you and he is now an ardent fan. Common One and Just Like Greta are 2 of my favorites. Your lyrics and instrumentation are unbeatable. you and Dylan are timeless
I only want to thank to Mr Van Morrison for being part of my life through his music. I'm a 39 years old fan (at least 33 years as fan!). I finally managed to see him live in concert at Brighton Dome in February 2014 and it was beautiful and very emotional to listen his marvelous voice! Thank you
We were at Van's 70th birthday celebration last year, Slieve Donard Hotel, Newcastle and we are back again in 2016! All the way from Australia, a wonderful experience for us, long time fans.
How I enjoyed seeing Van Morrison at Slieve Donard on Monday, August 22. While entering the hotel, I passed him, going to loo, I passed him, and going passed the bar I passed him. Too shy to say hello. But it was great seeing him after 45 years.
Life long dream coming true. Waiting for Ireland tour dates 2017! Travelling from Australia!
The very Happiest of Birthdays to you Mr. Morrison from Wanda & I, our 2 children and 9 Grandchildren. Your music helps us to smile, love and be! You are well loved, respected and adored in our family, and among good friends! God bless you Sir Van!
Dear Van, My husband passed away in January from cancer.Your music was a part of our love story from day one. Have I told you lately that I love You was our song.Our first dance at our wedding. He called me his Brown Eyed Girl and your music is a part of what was played at his memorial. Thank You
My fiancé Frank Mulhall was hospitalized 37 days & was in a coma & partially-paralyzed, from cancer/PTSD-induced stroke. Your CD was in wrong case. When I played Crazy Love, he opened his eyes, looked at me, took my hand, and "danced" with me. He lost consciousness and passed away a few days later.
We traveled to N. Ireland from the U.S. to see Sir Van at Slieve Donard in August 2016. It was such a special experience! Sir Van had us sing along with him, he treated us to tracks from the new album, and he took us to places only he can! Thanks Sir Van for making my dreams come true!