The Only Known Photo Of Van Smiling While Playing “And It Stoned Me” During A Street Performance

April 1, 2025

On a crisp autumn afternoon in 1979, a small crowd gathered on a busy street in San Francisco, drawn by the melodic sounds of an acoustic guitar. It was here that a young Van Morrison, known for his soulful voice and poetic lyrics, played a spontaneous street performance that would become legendary. As he strummed the chords to “And It Stoned Me,” the air was filled with a blend of nostalgia and hope. The sun caught the glint in his eye as he poured his heart into the music, and for the first time, someone snapped a photograph of him smiling, completely lost in the moment.

This particular day wasn’t just another performance for Van; it marked a turning point in his life. Despite his previous successes, he had faced moments of doubt and frustration with the music industry that often tried to mold him into something he wasn’t. But here, on the streets, under the golden sun, he was free. His music flowed effortlessly, evoking emotions that connected deeply with the crowd. They swayed, closed their eyes, and smiled back at him, creating a beautiful exchange of energy between the artist and his audience.

As the last notes of the song faded into the afternoon breeze, Van caught a glimpse of the photograph taken just moments before. When he later saw the picture, he couldn’t believe the joy radiating from his face. In that snapshot, he realized that music wasn’t just a career for him; it was a lifeline, a way to express his innermost feelings and share them with the world. The smile in that photo symbolized a rebirth, a reaffirmation of his love for music that had been buried under the pressures of fame.

This photo would later become iconic, a reminder for both Van and his fans that true happiness comes from being authentically oneself. It inspired him to continue creating and performing with renewed passion, reminding him that art was not just about the accolades or commercial success but about the connections made with listeners. The simple act of playing on the street, without expectations or constraints, rejuvenated his spirit and reignited his creativity, leading to the creation of some of his most beloved songs.

Years later, when Van was celebrated as a music legend, he would often look back at that day in San Francisco. The photograph served as a reminder of the importance of staying grounded and enjoying the process, no matter how far one may travel in life. It taught him that the joy of music comes from moments like those—moments filled with authenticity, laughter, and connection. That single photograph, the only known picture of Van smiling while playing “And It Stoned Me,” wasn’t just a fleeting memory. It became a symbol of resilience, hope, and the simple joy of being alive through music.