Don McLean is an American singer-songwriter and guitarist from New Rochelle, United States. He is associated with contemporary folk, folk, folk pop, folk rock, pop rock and rock, and his work is mainly in folk rock, with occasional detours into easy listening, country and other styles.

Career

McLean is best known for American Pie, an eight-and-a-half-minute folk rock single from 1971 that becomes one of his defining songs. He is also known for singles such as Vincent, Dreidel, Castles in the Air and Wonderful Baby. He also records versions of other artists’ songs, including Roy Orbison’s Crying and the Skyliners’ Since I Don’t Have You.

His song And I Love You So is recorded by several artists, including Elvis Presley, Perry Como, Helen Reddy and Glen Campbell. In 2000, Madonna has a hit with her version of American Pie.

Recognition

McLean is inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2004. BMI later certifies that American Pie reaches five million airplays and Vincent reaches three million.

Albums

His studio albums include Tapestry, American Pie, Don McLean, Playin' Favorites, Homeless Brother, Prime Time, Chain Lightning, Believers, Love Tracks, For the Memories, Headroom, Christmas, The River of Love, Christmas Dreams, Sings Marty Robbins, You've Got to Share: Songs for Children, The Western Album, Rearview Mirror: An American Musical Journey, Addicted to Black, Botanical Gardens, Still Playin' Favorites and American Boys.