The Day Van Sang “Have I Told You Lately” At A Benefit Without Even Announcing It

April 2, 2025

It was a chilly evening in November 1991, and the grand hall of the charity benefit was filled with warm lights and buzzing conversations. Artists and philanthropists mingled, each person eager to contribute to a cause that supported music education for underprivileged children. Among the crowd was Van Morrison, the legendary singer-songwriter known for his soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics. He had been invited as a special guest and was expected to share a few words about the importance of music, but no one knew that he was about to deliver a moment that would resonate deeply with everyone in the room.

As the dinner progressed, the atmosphere pulsed with excitement. People laughed, recounted stories, and shared their own experiences with the power of music. Van, watching from a quiet corner, felt a tug in his heart. Music was not just a profession for him; it was his lifeline. It had saved him countless times and allowed him to express emotions that words alone could never capture. He was hesitant to step into the spotlight, but the atmosphere was electric, and something inside him urged him to take action.

After the speeches were done, the host invited the performers to take the stage. As they played their set, the audience clapped and swayed, but Van remained seated, lost in thought. Suddenly, the lead singer paused and turned to him, urging him to join. With a spark of spontaneity, he rose and walked toward the microphone. His heart raced, but he felt an undeniable connection to the crowd—an unspoken understanding that this was the moment he had been waiting for.

Without even announcing what he was about to sing, Van launched into “Have I Told You Lately,” a song infused with deep emotion and sincerity. The notes flowed effortlessly from his lips, each word a reminder of love and gratitude. The room fell silent, every person captivated by the beauty of his voice. As he sang, Van’s eyes scanned the audience, witnessing their responses: smiles, tears, and nods of recognition. He poured his heart into the performance, and with every verse, he could see the impact it was having on the people listening. It was more than just a song; it was a celebration of life and a reminder of the power of love.

By the time he finished, the room erupted into applause. Tears streamed down faces as the audience rose to their feet, cheering and shouting. Van could hardly believe the magic he had created in those moments. That night didn’t just raise money for a worthy cause; it reignited his passion for performing and connected him to his roots as a musician. The response to his impromptu performance rekindled a fire within him that he hadn’t felt in years, giving him a renewed sense of purpose.

In the following months, the performance became a defining moment in Van’s career. He was invited to more charity events and began to collaborate with young musicians, sharing his wisdom and experience. He realized that music not only had the power to heal, but it also had the ability to inspire future generations. Even as he continued to tour and record, he often reflected on that chilly evening in November when he sang from the depths of his heart without any announcement. It was a reminder that sometimes, the most profound moments come when we least expect them, and that music can unite us all in ways we can hardly imagine.