Ellie Goulding makes a surprise today (February 14) with a stripped-back cover of Don McLean’s “Vincent.” A reflection on Vincent Van Gogh’s artwork and battle with mental illness, the 1972 hit might seem like a strange song to drop on Valentine’s Day. However, at its core, this is a tale of an unrequited love so maddening that it drove a man to suicide — making it unique counter-programming. James Blake also interpreted the song recently, but his take is dark and ghostly. Ellie, on the other hand, keeps it soft and pretty.
“Starry, starry night, paint your palette blue and grey,” she begins the ballad over strummed guitar. “Look out on a summer’s day.” From there, the Brit delivers a rather faithful rendition. The compassionate chorus feels especially relevant today. “Now I understand what you tried to say to me, how you suffered for your sanity,” Ellie sings. “They would not listen, they did not know how — perhaps they’ll listen now.” This is the 31-year-old’s first new song since dropping a cover of “O Holy Night” in December. Listen below.
This article was originally published by: Idolator
