Since my early days in primary school, I’ve been an avid fan of Don McLean. In the late ’70s or early ’80s, we had a massive stereo at home where I would often play my vinyl records. One day, I stumbled upon Don McLean’s American Pie album without knowing much about him. Intrigued by the song, I played it and instantly fell in love with its storytelling nature, complemented by elements of nursery rhymes woven into the lyrics. Another track that captivated me was “Vincent,” which remains one of my all-time favorite songs. At that tender age of 6 or 7, I found myself drawn to McLean’s timeless melodies.
Fast forward almost 50 years, and I finally had the opportunity to witness the “King of the Trail” perform live at the Coach House in San Juan Capistrano on Sept 15, 2023. The concert also marked the 50th anniversary celebration of the American Pie album. Despite having missed previous shows due to scheduling conflicts, seeing him in person felt surreal, like reliving my wonder years. What struck me most was the diverse crowd in attendance, spanning generations from baby boomers to Gen Z, a testament to the timeless appeal of McLean’s music.
During the performance, McLean, affectionately known as the “American Troubadour,” regaled the audience with stories behind his songs and the events that inspired them. He reflected on his journey post-“American Pie,” recounting the changes he’s witnessed in cities across America over the years. “After ‘American Pie,’ everything else sold like crazy. From then on, I started touring the world and was fortunate to see many things over the years. Cities improved, and cities decayed. For the past 10 years, I’ve spent a lot of time rambling around the United States, quietly observing big box stores eating up small businesses on Main Street. How many consignment stores can you have? Now, the big box stores are in trouble because of Amazon.”
Throughout the show, McLean showcased his versatility by seamlessly transitioning between folk, pop, and blues genres. Introducing his latest album, “American Boys,” he quipped, “This old-timer always has a new album,” much to the delight of the crowd. Reflecting on his extensive touring experience, McLean shared insights into his relentless pursuit of new adventures, remarking on the ever-changing of the the world at large.
McLean’s voice, reminiscent of a vintage vinyl record, transported me back to my childhood, evoking a sense of nostalgia and wonder. Witnessing Don McLean live was not just a concert experience but a journey through time and memory. His enduring passion for music and storytelling continues to captivate audiences of all ages, reaffirming his status as a true icon in the world of music.
Learn more about this all American music icon by clicking here! Don McLean is also on Instagram.
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