Don McLean, the US singer-songwriter famous for his hit American Pie, recently made comments regarding Prince Harry’s criticism of Elvis Presley’s home, Graceland. McLean defended Elvis, stating that the King came from humble beginnings and made some of the greatest recordings in music history. McLean believes that Prince Harry does not fully understand America and should not criticize the country as a guest, especially in comparison to Buckingham Palace. As an artist who wrote American Pie – a song considered iconic in American culture – McLean is in a unique position to comment on Prince Harry’s remarks.
Despite being financially stable due to the success of American Pie, which brings in substantial royalties annually, Don McLean continues to work on music and other projects. His latest album, American Boys, has been released, and he has been invited to speak at Oxford University as well as headline a country music festival in the UK. At 78, McLean has decided to limit his tours but still enjoys connecting with his British audience. Additionally, he has shared personal stories behind some of the songs on his new album, including one dedicated to his girlfriend, Paris Dunn.
Don McLean’s net worth has been estimated at £40 million, although he believes it is significantly higher due to his investments and ownership of various assets. He credits his girlfriend, Paris Dunn, with bringing joy and stability to his life following his divorce from his second wife, Patrisha. The acrimonious split in 2016 resulted in a $11 million divorce settlement, and McLean admits to struggles following the end of his marriage. Despite the challenges, he remains grateful for his current relationship and the support he has received from Dunn.
McLean’s relationship with his daughter from his second marriage, Jackie, has also faced difficulties, as she publicly claimed to have experienced emotional and mental abuse. As a response, McLean made the difficult decision to disinherit her, regretting the situation but noting that external influences may have influenced Jackie’s actions. Despite the family issues, McLean believes he provided a comfortable and loving environment for his children, showcasing a commitment to their well-being and providing for their needs.
Don McLean’s childhood included significant responsibility at a young age, as he had to take control following his father’s sudden death when he was 15. The loss of his father shaped his upbringing, leading him to prioritize his family’s well-being and work tirelessly to succeed in his music career. Rejected numerous times before finding success with his music, McLean persevered and ultimately became a celebrated artist with timeless hits like American Pie. He maintains a strong sense of control over his career and personal life, ensuring that he lives according to his values and desires.
Looking ahead, Don McLean plans to establish the Don McLean Foundation to support charitable causes like soup kitchens and homeless shelters. He intends to give back to the community and utilize his resources to make a positive impact on society. With a focus on philanthropy and preserving his legacy, McLean aims to create a lasting impact through his music and charitable efforts. He hopes to inspire others to contribute to meaningful causes and appreciate the rich history of his music and personal life.
