The Time Van Rerecorded “I Forgot That Love Existed” Because “The First Take Didn’T Feel True Anymore”

April 2, 2025

Van Morrison stood alone in the dimly lit recording studio, the weight of his emotions heavy on his heart. He had just wrapped up the first take of “I Forgot That Love Existed,” a song that was meant to capture the bittersweet essence of love and loss. Despite the honed melodies and poetic lyrics, something didn’t feel right. He could sense it in the air, almost like a fog that clouded his creative spirit. The music had flowed easily, but as he listened to the playback, he felt a disconnection between the song’s message and his own state of mind. “This doesn’t feel true anymore,” he thought to himself, a spark of determination igniting within him.

Frustration battled with inspiration as Van considered the implications of one imperfect take. He had devoted his life to music, pouring his soul into every note, and he knew that if the song didn’t resonate with his heart, it wouldn’t resonate with anyone else. He took a deep breath and decided to step back for a moment. He remembered the times in his life when love had swept him off his feet, and the times when it had left him feeling empty. Those memories surged to the surface, and he realized that the piece required raw vulnerability, honesty, and a touch of his own life experiences.

With renewed conviction, Van called his bandmates back into the studio. He shared his thoughts about what he wanted to convey, and they nodded in understanding, eager to embark on this journey with him. As they settled into their seats, Van felt a wave of energy wash over him. This time, he approached the song with an open heart, embracing the highs and lows that love can bring. When the music began to play, he poured every ounce of feeling into each word, singing with a sense of urgency that hadn’t been there before. It was as if the song transformed into a cathartic release, allowing him to connect with the deepest parts of himself.

The second take was magic. Everyone in the studio could feel it—a moment of collective inspiration that seemed to transcend the room. When the final note faded out, there was a profound silence that enveloped them. Van opened his eyes, and the expressions on his bandmates’ faces told him everything he needed to know. In that moment, he felt the genuine connection that athletes sometimes speak of; the kind that assures you that you’ve given your all. The recording would go on to become a classic, not just for its sound but for the authenticity that shined through.

Looking back, Van knew that changing course was the best decision he could have made. This experience taught him that sometimes, the first idea is not always the best. Music, like life, is about evolution and authenticity. Through this journey, he learned to trust his instincts and embrace vulnerability, both in his art and in his personal life. His career flourished from that moment, inspiring countless artists to prioritize genuine expression over perfection. Van Morrison’s story became not just about a song, but about the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of love—something that, regardless of the ups and downs, would always exist.