Don McLean will forever be associated with the story ballad “American Pie”; but he has another hit that is just as iconic in “Vincent” – a song about Vincent Van Gogh – also called “Starry Starry Night”.
The guitar McLean used to write and record “Vincent” is being put up for public auction for the first time next week via Julens Auctions. Beginning November 7 the guitar – a 1969 Martin 00-21 acoustic -, and other McLean memorabilia, will be on display at the Hard Rock Café in New York City with the three day action beginning at the Café on November 11.
McLean also used the Martin write “Til Tomorrow”, “WInterwood”, “Sister Fatima”, “The Grave”, and “Empty Chairs”. He used the guitar on stage between 1969 and 1971.
The original lyrics for “Vincent” are also on the auction block; along with over 300 other items.
A portion of the proceeds from the auction will go to benefit the Don McLean Foundation – which aids underprivileged college students, homeless, and food banks – and “Kicking the Stigma” – a mental health awareness organization from the Indianapolis Colts and the Irsay family.
Speaking on his songwriting, McLean notes, “the guitar has been the way I’ve written a lot of songs, like a song like ‘And I Love You So’… And even ‘Vincent’ was really off the guitar.”
Anyone wishing to bid on one of the many items available in the Rock and Icons auction November 11-13 must register at JuliensLive.com. For questions call 310-836-1818 or email infor@juliensactions.com.
feature photo credit: courtesy of 2911 Media