I love the way this song sounds when played clawhammer style—it’s one of my personal favorites to play and sing! My version uses only six easy ukulele chords. Watch my four-video Clawhammer Tutorial if you need help with the clawhammer style.

“Vincent” by Don McLean is a tribute to the Dutch painter Vincent van Gogh. The song, often referred to as “Starry Starry Night” due to its opening lyrics, reflects on van Gogh’s life, artistry, and struggles with mental illness. McLean describes the beauty of van Gogh’s paintings while also acknowledging the loneliness and pain the artist endured. The lyrics convey admiration for van Gogh’s vision and express sorrow that his genius was not fully appreciated during his lifetime. The song ultimately serves as a poignant homage, portraying van Gogh as a misunderstood yet brilliant soul whose work continues to inspire.