The Vinyl Copy Of Moondance Signed “To Those Who Still Believe In Magic”

April 1, 2025

The first time I saw that vinyl copy of “Moondance,” it was nestled among a tangle of old records at my grandfather’s house. It was a warm summer afternoon, the kind where the sunlight streamed through the window, casting golden patterns on the floor. I was searching for something to play on his ancient turntable when I stumbled across the album. The cover, with its dreamy artwork of a couple dancing under the moonlight, instantly caught my eye. As I flipped it over, I noticed the elegant signature penned at the top: “To those who still believe in magic.” My heart raced. That was no ordinary vinyl; it was a piece of history, signed by the legendary Van Morrison himself.

My grandfather told me stories about Van Morrison and how “Moondance” transformed music in the early 1970s. He spoke of a time when the world was changing rapidly, filled with both turmoil and hope. Morrison’s music resonated with so many, capturing the essence of love and longing, intertwining jazz and pop in a way that had never been done before. This album, especially the title track, became an anthem for dreamers like my grandfather, who believed in the power of music to uplift the spirit. Listening to that vinyl felt like a gateway, transporting me into the magical world that inspired so many.

As I placed the record on the turntable and dropped the needle, the first notes poured out, wrapping around me like a warm embrace. The sound was rich and vibrant, and I could almost see the shimmering moonlight dancing in the room. With each note, I felt a connection to the past and the struggles Morrison faced as an artist. He had battled with self-doubt and industry pressure, but through it all, he held onto his passion, creating music that spoke to the heart. That signature on the album wasn’t just a mark; it was a testament to his resilience and a reminder that magic exists if you only dare to believe.

As “Moondance” played on, I thought about how music has the power to inspire hope and joy, even in the darkest times. Morrison once said, “Music is a great uniter,” and I felt that truth resonate with every beat. Here was a man who had faced challenges and criticisms yet chose to pour his soul into his creations. His ability to weave stories through song had touched countless lives, including my grandparents. They had danced together to that very track, celebrating love and life, proving that even in tough times, magic could still be found.

Every time I listen to that vinyl now, I’m reminded of the importance of believing in magic, just as Morrison had signed for those who cherish music. It inspires me to pursue my passions, whether in art, sports, or academics, and to hold onto hope even when the road gets rough. That little piece of vinyl became a symbol of resilience for me—a reminder that we all have the power to create beauty in our lives and share it with the world. Just like Van Morrison, we can all be artists in our own stories, creating moments that resonate with others.

So, whenever I feel uncertain about the future or overwhelmed by challenges, I return to that moment in my grandfather’s living room, listening to “Moondance.” And I remember that magic is not just a fairy tale; it’s alive in the music that inspires us, in the dreams we chase, and in the belief that anything is possible if we hold on to our passion and courage.