At the vanguard of rock music for half a century

Van Morrison is dismissive of fame, but his music will endure despite his aloofness, says John Minihan

VAN Morrison takes to the stage of the Odyssey Arena, Belfast, on February 3 at the start of a tour that will include Dublin and Britain. The singer/songwriter, born in Belfast on August 31, 1945, is one of the few performers whose achievements have attained the status of ‘myth.’

Morrison has always stood aloof from musical fashion or convention. Now in his late 60s, he is the antithesis of a rock star. Being called a ‘legend’ would not stir a modicum of interest in him.