McLean performed his legendary hit “American Pie” and more
Legendary singer-songwriter Don McLean was honored at the Grand Ole Opry following his second appearance on the world-famous stage, where he performed as part of the Opry’s historic 100th anniversary celebration and in recognition of the upcoming 250th anniversary of America.
Following his performance, McLean was presented with multiple commemorative awards recognizing the extraordinary and continuing impact of his catalog, including “American Pie” earning 6x Platinum single status and the American Pie album earning 2x Platinum album status. The presentation also highlighted additional RIAA Gold and Platinum honors tied to McLean’s remarkable songwriting legacy, including “Vincent,” which is also featured on Josh Groban’s 5x Platinum self-titled album, and Perry Como’s Gold-certified album And I Love You So, which featured Como’s beloved recording of McLean’s timeless composition.
RIAA SVP of Artist & Industry Relations Jackie Jones joined celebration of McLean from his own landmark recordings to the remarkable reach of his songs through artists across generations.
“Standing on the Opry stage is always meaningful, but to have this night surrounded by these songs and these awards made it especially moving,” said McLean. “When I wrote ‘American Pie,’ ‘Vincent,’ and ‘And I Love You So,’ I wasn’t thinking about plaques or numbers. I was thinking about truth, beauty, loss, love, and the country I knew. To see these songs still living in people’s hearts after all these years is the greatest honor.”
In addition to the towering success of “American Pie,” the presentation also acknowledged the influence of McLean’s songs through other legendary voices. Josh Groban’s recording of “Vincent” introduced the song to a new legion of listeners.
“I’m not a folk singer, I’m not a rock singer, I’m not a pop singer. I’m an American singer who sings the American songbook,” shares McLean. “Hearing ‘And I Love You So’ by Como teaches me how a great pop singer handles my song. I always learn things. Hearing Groban do ‘Vincent’ is the same. An emerging great pop singer doing my song and teaching me something about the song at the same time.”
More at donmclean.com.