Music legend Van Morrison celebrates his 80th birthday, continuing his independent and unique approach to music.

Van Morrison, the legendary Northern Irish singer-songwriter, is turning 80 on August 31, 2021. To mark the occasion, he is giving concerts in his hometown of Belfast and releasing a new album of original compositions, "Remembering Now."

Morrison's journey to stardom was not an easy one. He started his solo career in 1967, nearly broke when his second album, "Astral Weeks," was released. Despite the challenges, Morrison persevered, and his musical talent soon shone through.

Morrison's father bought him a guitar when he was 11, marking the beginning of his musical career. He learned to play the saxophone after the guitar, and his unique style soon developed. Morrison experimented with his music throughout his career, disregarding conventional musical norms.

Morrison became a lead singer unintentionally due to lack of other options, and he quickly made a name for himself. His first solo hit was "Brown Eyed Girl" in 1967, and "Moondance" solidified his status as a star in 1970.

Morrison was a member of the band Them in the early 1960s but did not found any other bands himself; he is mainly known for his solo career. The B-side "Gloria" became a surprise hit, later covered by Jimi Hendrix, Patti Smith, and the Doors.

Morrison had several lineup changes with Them but still managed to have hits like "Here Comes The Night," "Mystic Eyes," and the cover version of "Baby, Please Don't Go." As a teenager, Morrison toured Germany with the group The Monarchs and recorded a first single in Cologne, the payment for which was said to be cognac.

Morrison's musical influences include Mahalia Jackson, Ray Charles, Muddy Waters, Woody Guthrie, and Hank Williams. Privately, Morrison is spiritual but does not adhere to any particular religion.

Morrison's latest album, "Remembering Now," was released in June 2021. He has also been working on a backlog of unreleased music, including new arrangements and projects. Morrison attributes his continued success to never aiming for commercial success and taking a jazz approach.

In 2016, Morrison was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II for his services to music. Morrison originally wrote the hit ballad "Have I Told You Lately" as a prayer, and his music continues to touch the hearts of fans around the world.

Morrison released an album of traditional Irish folk songs in 1988, and his music remains deeply rooted in his Irish heritage. Morrison's music is a testament to his talent and his enduring passion for music. As he celebrates his 80th birthday, fans around the world will continue to remember and celebrate the legacy of Van Morrison.

Music legend Van Morrison celebrates his 80th birthday, continuing his independent and unique approach to music.