Episode 36 – Don McLean

Legendary songwriter speaks candidly about his storied career

Don McLean is a GRAMMY Award honoree, a Songwriter Hall of Fame member, a BBC Lifetime Achievement award recipient, and soon a 2021 member of the Hollywood Walk of Fame. His smash hit “American Pie” resides in the Library of Congress National Recording Registry and was named a Top 5 song of the 20th Century by the Recording Industry of America (RIAA).

A New York native, McLean is one of the most revered and respected songwriters in American history. After paying his dues in the New York club scene in the late ‘60s, he went on to score mega-hits like “Vincent (Starry, Starry Night),” “Castles in the Air” and many more. His catalog of songs have been recorded by Madonna, Garth Brooks, Josh Groban, Drake, Weird “Al” Yankovic, and countless others.

In May 2020, McLean released 173 songs from 11 of his classic albums through a partnership with Time Life and Warner Music Group that will also see a new album entitled Still Playin’ Favorites released this fall. “American Pie” will be featured in the Avenger’s Black Widow and the Tom Hanks movie BIOS, and more to be announced.

Next year marks the 50th anniversary of American Pie in which the legendary entertainer will embark on a world tour in support.

McLean recently chatted with Matt Bailey in a candid interview that talks about his legendary career, his future plans and how he plans to never retire.

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Buddy Iahn
Buddy Iahn

Buddy Iahn founded The Music Universe when he decided to juxtapose his love of web design and music. As a lifelong drummer, he decided to take a hiatus from playing music to report it. The website began as a fun project in 2013 to one of the top independent news sites. Email: info@themusicuniverse.com