The Time Van Played A One-Song Encore — “Into The Mystic” — And Then Vanished

April 2, 2025

The lights dimmed in the small but vibrant venue where Van Morrison was about to take the stage. Excitement crackled in the air like static electricity. For many fans gathered that evening, it felt like a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to hear one of the greatest musicians sing live. They had all come to hear him perform his endless hits, but little did they know that this night would be unlike any other. The air was thick with anticipation as the crowd took their seats, hearts racing with the hope of hearing his iconic voice fill the room.

Van stepped onto the stage, his presence commanding yet humble. His weathered face bore the marks of a life well-lived, filled with joy and sorrow. As he began to sing, each note flowed from his lips like honey, sweet and rich, captivating everyone in the audience. He moved through his set, delivering powerful renditions of his classics, but something felt different that night. There was a depth to his performance, an urgency that resonated with the crowd. With every strum of the guitar and beat of the drums, it became clear that he was not just performing; he was sharing pieces of his soul.

As the final song approached, the audience felt a mix of euphoria and sadness. They knew the night was coming to an end, and it was almost too much to bear. Van paused, looked out into the sea of faces, and then, with a twinkle in his eye, he announced he would play one final song. The air grew still, and a hush fell over the crowd as he began the opening notes of “Into the Mystic.” This iconic song, with its themes of love and exploration, seemed to wrap around everyone like a comforting embrace. It was as if he was inviting them all on a journey, one filled with wonder and hope.

As he poured his heart into the song, something remarkable happened. Each note felt like a farewell, a gift wrapped in music that would linger long after the final chord. Van’s voice soared, filled with a rare emotion that stirred the hearts of all present. It was not just a performance; it was a moment of profound connection between the artist and his fans. And then, just as the last note faded into silence, he thanked the crowd and, without any further ado, walked off the stage. The audience sat in stunned silence, clinging to the magic of that final song.

But just like that, Van vanished. It was as if he had stepped into another realm, leaving behind a piece of himself in the hearts of those who had shared that experience. The night became legendary, whispered about in music circles for years to come. Some said it was a bold statement on the impermanence of life and art; others believed he was simply taking a breather from the spotlight. Regardless of the reason, that night marked a turning point in his career. It reminded both him and his fans why he had always been a trailblazer, willing to take risks and express himself in ways that resonated deeply.

In the years that followed, Van continued to make music and tour, but that one-song encore remained etched in the memory of everyone who witnessed it. It showcased not only his incredible talent but also his passion for music as a form of expression. Van Morrison’s resilience shone through as he navigated the ups and downs of fame, always returning to what he loved most: sharing his stories through song. Each performance after that night was a reminder that music has the power to connect us, heal us, and inspire us to keep going, no matter how uncertain the path ahead might seem.