The Moment Van Sang “Rough God Goes Riding” With Tears In His Eyes

April 2, 2025

It was a chilly evening in November 1991 when Van Morrison took the stage at the iconic Madison Square Garden in New York City. The air was filled with anticipation as fans from all walks of life gathered to witness the legendary singer-songwriter. Among the crowd were those who adored his soulful voice and captivating lyrics that had touched their hearts for decades. Little did anyone know that this night would hold a special place in Van’s life, forever etched in memory as a turning point in his career.

As the concert began, Van played many of his beloved hits, but everyone could feel that something extraordinary was brewing. When he started strumming the opening chords of “Rough God Goes Riding,” a hush fell over the audience. It was a song born from deep reflections on love, loss, and the search for meaning in life. As he sang, his voice trembled slightly, revealing the vulnerability behind the tough exterior that fans usually saw. Tears glistened in his eyes, and the emotion was palpable; each note felt like a piece of his soul being shared with those who had come to listen.

In that moment, it was as if Van was not just performing a song but sharing his life story with the audience. He poured his heart into every lyric, and the music flowed like a river, carrying with it all the struggles and triumphs of his journey. The crowd was captivated, and many felt tears welling up in their eyes too. The connection between Van and his fans deepened, creating a powerful bond that could only be forged through shared emotion and an understanding of life’s trials.

The song ended, but the echoes of its meaning lingered in the air like a warm embrace. As Van wiped his eyes and took a deep breath, the audience erupted into applause, cheers ringing through the hall. This was more than just a performance; it was a testament to resilience and the healing power of music. For Van, standing there before thousands of fans, it marked a significant moment of renewal in his career. He realized that vulnerability was not a weakness; it was a strength that allowed him to connect with others in a profound way.

After that concert, Van Morrison continued to embrace the raw honesty of his music with renewed passion. The tears he shed that night became a symbol of his willingness to be open and authentic in his art. His career flourished even more as fans admired not just his talent but his ability to express deep emotions and experiences that resonated with their own lives. Each performance afterward was imbued with that spirit of authenticity, making Van not just a performer, but a storyteller and a healer through his music.

Years later, reflecting on that night, Van would often say that “Rough God Goes Riding” was not just a song; it was a journey of the heart and a reminder of why he loved music so much. He inspired countless artists to embrace their vulnerability and tell their own stories, proving that when we allow ourselves to feel deeply, we can create art that touches lives and fosters connection. That night in New York City became a beacon of hope for Van Morrison and his fans, a reminder that even in our darkest moments, there is beauty in embracing the struggle and sharing our truth with the world.