Don McLean is a legendary American singer-songwriter known for his unique blend of folk, rock, and country music. With a career spanning over five decades, McLean has written and recorded numerous classic songs that have stood the test of time. His iconic hit “American Pie” alone has become a cultural touchstone and an anthem for a generation.
The top 10 best Don McLean songs of all time offer a glimpse into his musical brilliance and songwriting prowess. “American Pie” is an obvious standout, but McLean has also produced a string of other hits such as “And I Love You So,” “Vincent,” and “Castles in the Air.”
His music explores a range of themes and emotions, from love and heartbreak to nostalgia and social commentary. McLean’s distinctive voice and guitar playing, combined with his poetic lyrics, create a sound that is uniquely his own.
Whether you’re a long-time fan or just discovering his music, the top 10 best Don McLean songs are a must-listen for anyone who appreciates great songwriting and timeless melodies.
1. American Pie
“American Pie” is a classic folk rock song that has stood the test of time. Released in 1971, the song has become an iconic symbol of American culture and music history. The song tells a story of rock and roll and the changes that came with it in the 1960s, and how it was affected by the tragic deaths of Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and The Big Bopper in a plane crash in 1959. McLean’s lyrics are poetic and filled with symbolism, leaving much of the interpretation up to the listener.
The song’s memorable chorus and catchy melody have made it a staple at parties, on the radio, and in movies and TV shows for decades. “American Pie” has also been covered by numerous artists, solidifying its place in the canon of American music. Its cultural impact cannot be overstated, making it one of the most beloved and significant songs of all time.
2. And I Love You So
“And I Love You So” is a beautiful and sentimental love song that has become one of his most popular and enduring tracks. Originally written by folk singer-songwriter Bobby Goldsboro, McLean’s rendition is a gentle and romantic ballad that showcases his smooth and emotive vocals. The song’s lyrics express the depth of love and devotion that the singer feels for his partner, with heartfelt lines such as “The book of life is brief / And once a page is read, all but love is dead / That is my belief”.
The melody is simple and melodic, allowing McLean’s voice and the emotional lyrics to take center stage. The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including Perry Como and Elvis Presley, and has become a classic love song that resonates with audiences of all ages. “And I Love You So” is a testament to McLean’s songwriting and musical talent, and a reminder that love is a universal emotion that transcends time and trends.
3. Vincent
“Vincent” is a poignant and touching tribute to the legendary artist Vincent van Gogh. The song’s lyrics are a reflection on the life and work of the painter, and McLean’s heartfelt vocals lend a sense of intimacy and emotion to the song. The lyrics are filled with vivid imagery, capturing the essence of van Gogh’s art and the emotions that inspired it. The chorus, “Starry, starry night / Paint your palette blue and grey / Look out on a summer’s day / With eyes that know the darkness in my soul”, is particularly haunting and evocative. The melody is simple and beautiful, allowing the lyrics to take center stage.
The song’s popularity has endured over the years, and it remains one of McLean’s most beloved and iconic tracks. “Vincent” is a tribute not only to van Gogh, but to all artists who struggle to express themselves and find beauty in the world around them. It is a reminder of the power of art to touch the soul and connect us to each other and to the world.
4. Castles In The Air
“Castles in the Air” is a song by Don McLean that was released in 1970 on his album “American Pie”. The song was written by McLean after his first tour of Europe, where he found inspiration in the European architecture, specifically the castles. The song is known for its simple, yet catchy melody that blends well with the meaningful lyrics that tell a story of longing for the past and memories that will never be forgotten.
The acoustic guitar in the background sets a calm and peaceful mood that carries throughout the song. The chorus, “And I build castles in the air, And in my imagination, You’re with me there,” is particularly memorable and has been used in popular culture, such as in the movie “Up in the Air”. The song’s simplicity and its ability to convey a sense of nostalgia has made it one of McLean’s most popular songs.
The lyrics evoke a sense of timelessness, and the emotions felt by the narrator are relatable to anyone who has experienced longing for the past. The song has a timeless quality to it, and it continues to be relevant to this day, being covered by numerous artists throughout the years. Overall, “Castles in the Air” is a song that speaks to the heart and captures the essence of nostalgia in a beautiful and memorable way.
5. Crying
“Crying” is a classic ballad originally written by Roy Orbison and later covered by Don McLean on his album “Chain Lightning” in 1978. McLean’s version is a stripped-down acoustic arrangement that showcases his unique vocal range and emotional delivery. The song tells the story of a man who is trying to hide his tears and pretend that he’s fine after a breakup, but ultimately succumbs to his emotions and breaks down in tears. McLean’s voice captures the pain and vulnerability of the lyrics perfectly, making it a standout track on the album.
The song was a commercial success for McLean, reaching number five on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning him a Grammy nomination for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance. The song’s popularity was further cemented by its use in several movies and TV shows, including an emotional scene in the hit TV series “Breaking Bad.” McLean’s version of “Crying” is a timeless classic that has resonated with audiences for decades, showcasing the power of a simple yet heartfelt ballad.
6. Dreidel
“Dreidel” is a Hanukkah song recorded by Don McLean in 1991. The song is an upbeat and playful tune that tells the story of a spinning top, the dreidel, which is a popular game played during the Jewish holiday. The song features McLean’s smooth vocals backed by a cheerful arrangement of guitars, percussion, and accordion, which create a festive atmosphere.
The lyrics of “Dreidel” describe the tradition of spinning the top, which has four sides with different Hebrew letters, each representing a different outcome in the game. McLean sings about the excitement and joy of playing the game with family and friends, and the memories that are made during the holiday season. The song also includes a chorus that invites listeners to join in and sing along with the catchy melody.
Despite not being one of McLean’s most well-known songs, “Dreidel” has become a beloved holiday classic for many, and has been covered by several other artists over the years. Its catchy tune and upbeat spirit make it a perfect addition to any Hanukkah playlist or celebration.
7. Till Tomorrow
“Till Tomorrow” is a melancholic yet hopeful love song written and performed by Don McLean, released on his 1971 album “American Pie”. The song features gentle acoustic guitar strumming and McLean’s characteristic soft, soothing vocals. The lyrics speak of the pain of separation from a loved one, with lines like “I’ll watch you walk away from me, and then I’ll turn around and see you’re gone”. However, the chorus offers a glimmer of hope for the future, with the repeated refrain of “But I’ll see you, tomorrow, and everything will be just fine”.
The song’s intimate and personal nature, as well as McLean’s raw emotion in his delivery, make it a standout track on the album. It showcases McLean’s ability to capture complex emotions in his lyrics and music, and to express them in a way that resonates with listeners. “Till Tomorrow” may not be as well-known as some of McLean’s other hits, but it remains a beloved deep cut among his fans and a testament to his songwriting talent.
8. The River Of Love
“The River of Love” is a beautiful ballad by Don McLean that showcases his ability to capture the essence of human emotions in his music. Released in 1988, the song features McLean’s signature acoustic guitar sound and poignant lyrics that touch on the timeless theme of love and loss. The gentle melody is complemented by McLean’s smooth and tender vocals that draw the listener in and evoke feelings of nostalgia and longing.
The lyrics tell a story of a man reminiscing about a past love that he let slip away, and how he now wishes he could turn back time and do things differently. The imagery of the river flowing symbolizes the passage of time and the inevitability of change, yet the chorus offers a glimmer of hope for the possibility of love to endure despite the challenges of life. McLean’s use of poetic language and vivid imagery creates a sense of universality that speaks to the human experience of love and regret.
Overall, “The River of Love” is a beautiful and haunting song that showcases Don McLean’s talent as a songwriter and storyteller. Its timeless themes and evocative melody continue to resonate with listeners, making it a beloved classic in McLean’s extensive discography.
9. You Can’t Blame the Train
“You Can’t Blame the Train” is a song by American singer-songwriter Don McLean, released on his 2009 album “Addicted to Black.” The song opens with a classic country sound, with the steel guitar setting a mournful tone. McLean’s distinctive voice enters, singing a tale of a lover who has left him, and he compares his situation to that of a train going off the rails. He pleads with the listener not to blame the train for its derailment, and similarly, not to blame him for the end of the relationship.
The chorus is upbeat and catchy, with McLean lamenting the loss of his love but trying to stay optimistic. The instrumentation picks up, with drums and guitar driving the song forward, while McLean’s vocals remain heartfelt and emotive. The bridge features a lovely guitar solo that takes the listener on a journey before the final chorus brings the song to a close.
Overall, “You Can’t Blame the Train” is a beautiful and poignant song that showcases McLean’s skill as a songwriter and performer. It is a standout track on the “Addicted to Black” album and a reminder of McLean’s enduring talent.
10. Wonderful Baby
“Wonderful Baby” is a beautiful ballad that tells a simple yet profound story of a man who is deeply in love with his partner. The song opens with a gentle acoustic guitar and McLean’s soft, soothing voice, setting the tone for the love story that unfolds. The lyrics are straightforward, yet poetic, as McLean describes his devotion to his beloved, singing, “Wonderful baby, nothing could be sweeter / Life’s so complete when I’m near your heater.”
As the song progresses, McLean’s vocals become more impassioned, reflecting the depth of his feelings for his partner. The instrumentation builds, with piano, drums, and strings, adding to the emotional intensity of the song. The chorus is catchy and memorable, with McLean proclaiming, “Wonderful baby, I love you / You know I do.”
Overall, “Wonderful Baby” is a timeless love song that showcases McLean’s talent as a songwriter and musician. The song is both tender and powerful, capturing the essence of true love and devotion. Its beautiful melody and heartfelt lyrics have made it a beloved classic, and it continues to resonate with listeners today.
Simon Robinson is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
