Don McLean at Mountain Winery

Don McLean is undoubtedly one of the greatest artists of all time. He is one of those very few who need no introduction because their works speak for their legacy in their dominated field. As for McLean, the entire music industry would never be the same without him and his masterpiece of songs like "Vincent," "Dreidel," a rendition of Roy Orbison's "Crying," a version of the Skyliners' "Since I Don't Have You," and "Wonderful Baby."

But perhaps if there is a song that defined his career, it would be his 1971 hit song "American Pie," an 8-and-a-half-minute folk-rock that most critics consider a "cultural touchstone." With a tragic back story behind it, "American Pie" is a song about the loss of innocence of the early rock and roll generation. Alongside songs by other icons such as Bing Crosby, Judy Garland, Woody Guthrie, and Aretha Franklin, McLean's composition was also voted "Song of the 20th Century." It has become an anthem and an iconic song that has stood the test of time.

At 76, Don McLean boasts one of the most decorated credentials any other artists only wish to have. He is a Grammy award honoree, Songwriters Hall of Fame member, and BBC Lifetime Achievement Award recipient. These three monumental awards add to the countless awards and recognitions he had garnered in his remarkably prolific career. This year, the music icon will embark on a world tour that celebrates the 50th anniversary of "American Pie."

"After spending the past 18 months at home, I am thrilled to be getting back on the road with my band," Don McLean said with excitement during an interview. "2022 marks the 50th anniversary from when American Pie landed at the #1 spot on the Billboard chart and we will be celebrating on tour all year long. We will be performing all the songs from the American Pie album plus many of the other hits that fans will be expecting to hear."

See you at his stop at Saratoga's Mountain Winery Amphitheater this July 2. Grab your tickets by clicking the "Get Tickets" button. See you there!