Donald McLean III (born October 2, 1945) is an American singer-songwriter and guitarist, best known for his 1971 hit “American Pie”, an eight-and-a-half-minute folk rock song called a “cultural touchstone.” Other hit singles include “Vincent”, “Dreidel”, “Castles in the Air”, and “Wonderful Baby.”
He also covered Roy Orbison’s “Crying” and the Skyliners‘ “Since I Don’t Have You.” His song “And I Love You So” was recorded by Elvis Presley, Perry Como, and Glen Campbell. In 2004, he was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame.
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Don McLean Net Worth
Don McLean has a net worth of $50 million. He is most famous for his 1971 album “American Pie,” featuring hit singles “American Pie” and “Vincent.” Other hits include “Dreidel,” “Wonderful Baby,” and covers of Roy Orbison‘s “Crying” and the Skyliners‘ “Since I Don’t Have You.”
The song “American Pie” is played hundreds of times daily on radio, earning him $300,000 – $500,000 per year in royalties. Since 1990, Universal Music Publishing Group has managed his catalogue, renewing a $4.5 million deal in 2018.
Early life
Don McLean‘s grandfather and father, both named Donald McLean, were of Scottish origin. His mother, Elizabeth Bucci, was of Italian origin, with her parents from Abruzzo, central Italy. He has extended family in Los Angeles and Boston. McLean grew up in New Rochelle, New York, where he delivered newspapers as a boy.
Career
Don McLean recorded Tapestry in 1969 in Berkeley, California, during student riots. After 72 rejections, it was released by Mediarts, a label that didn’t exist when he started searching. The album earned good reviews but limited attention outside the folk community. “
Castles in the Air” succeeded on the Easy Listening chart, and in 1973, “And I Love You So” became a number 1 hit for Perry Como. When Mediarts was bought by United Artists Records, American Pie and “Vincent” became number one hits, making McLean an international star.
Personal life
Don McLean was raised Catholic by his mother, Elizabeth McLean; his father, Donald McLean, was Protestant and died when McLean was 15. He reported abuse by both parents and his sister. His first marriage to Carol Sauvion (1969–1976) produced no children.
His second marriage to Patrisha Shnier McLean (1987–2016) ended after a domestic violence arrest. They had two children, Jackie and Wyatt, and two grandchildren. Since 2018, he’s dated Paris Dylan. He supports Teen Cancer America, founded the Don McLean Foundation, and attended a White House state dinner in 2024.
What religion was Don McLean?
Don McLean was raised Catholic. At the end of the last verse of McLean‘s song, even God (“The Father, Son, and the Holy Ghost” – McLean was raised Catholic) has become disillusioned and split town.
Conclusion
Don McLean’s career is a testament to the lasting impact of a great song and the power of music in shaping cultural memory. His net worth of $50 million is a reflection of his success as a musician and the timeless appeal of his work.
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FAQs about Don McLean Net Worth
- What are some of Don McLean’s other notable songs?
Beyond “American Pie,” McLean is known for songs like “Vincent,” “Dreidel,” and “Wonderful Baby.” - How has “American Pie” contributed to McLean’s wealth?
“American Pie” continues to earn significant royalties, played hundreds of times per day worldwide. - What honors and recognitions has Don McLean received?
McLean was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2004 and has received numerous accolades for his music. - What philanthropic work does Don McLean engage in?
McLean is an ambassador for Teen Cancer America and has established the Don McLean Foundation. - How has Don McLean’s music influenced other artists?
Artists like Garth Brooks, Madonna, and Josh Groban have recorded his songs, indicating his influence on various genres and generations.
