3 minute read
Van Morrison built a musical career spanning over six decades and is considered one of the most influential artists of his generation. His unique voice, poetic lyrics and boundless genre fusion resulted in countless accolades and earned him eternal fame and a prominent place in music history.
Born George Ivan Morrison in the Northern Irish capital of Belfast on 31 August 1945, he grew up in a musical family. His father worked in a shipyard and had an extensive collection of blues and jazz records, introducing young George to such artists as Ray Charles, Lead Belly and Muddy Waters. These early influences laid the foundation for his varied musical taste.
Success comes calling
As a teenager, Morrison taught himself to play the guitar, the saxophone and the harmonica. He started his musical career playing in local bands and in 1964 he founded the band Them, scoring his first major hit with Gloria. It was the start of a musical journey that would change the world. In 1967 he struck out on his own and released the iconic track Brown Eyed Girl, followed by the album Astral Weeks in 1968, which is still regarded as one of the greatest albums of all time. Moondance (1970) showcased his versatility and songs such as Brown Eyed Girl and Into the Mystic brought him worldwide success.
With influences from blues, jazz, folk and soul, Van Morrison built a career characterised by a unique voice. More than 45 studio albums and dozens of unforgettable songs inspired several generations. He is not just a musician but also a storyteller who is able to capture universal themes such as love, loss and hope in a blend of introspective poetry and timeless melodies, often steeped in spirituality and nostalgia. Knighted in 2016, he can hence officially call himself Sir George Ivan Morrison.
A tribute: the Van Morrison Alumni Band
On 8 May 2025 at The Viage, Brussels, in a collaboration with MB Presents, the story of Van Morrison will come to life, told through the hands of seasoned musicians who have worked with him for many years. The Van Morrison Alumni Band, led by saxophonist Leo Green, will take you on a journey through Van Morrison’s impressive musical legacy.
This is not a mere tribute band; these are the musicians handpicked by the master to accompany him in the studio and on the live stage. Together they worked on such classics as Days Like This, The Healing Game and Live in San Francisco. Like no other, they know his music inside out and perform his work with the same passion and authenticity.
“These songs are meant to be sung and heard and I am really happy that Leo is carrying the torch.” – Van Morrison
This special project has Van Morrison’s full support: “These songs are meant to be sung and heard and I am really happy that Leo is carrying the torch.” Band leader Green calls it a great honour and pleasure for this group of musicians to gather for a tour that celebrates the words and music of Van Morrison.
Do not miss out on this special evening. Immerse yourself in the timeless sounds of one of the greatest musical legends of our time. Experience a magical evening that pays tribute to the soul of Van Morrison.
Book your tickets here for this event on 8 May 2025 at The Viage, Brussels.
