Legendary Tips and Guitar Tricks with Don McLean

Don McLean is a Grammy award honoree, a Songwriter Hall of Fame member, a BBC Lifetime Achievement award recipient, and his smash hit “American Pie” resides in the Library of Congress National Recording Registry and was named by the Recording Industry of America (RIAA) a top 5 song of the 20th Century.
www.donmclean.com
/ @donmcleanonline
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[@bencobley4929]

Is it me or is this man the most underated song writer of all time. I listen to my Grandads Don Mclean records and I'm blown away by how relevant his music is even now. Emotionally engaging , Relevant, beautiful. Tapestry is incredible. Don't get me wrong, he's famous but I barely ever here the plaudits that some other artists get. One of a kind.

[@Musicman431]

He is only underrated in current people's mind because he hasn't released an album since the early 80's. His music is introspective, heartbreaking and amazing. Butyou have to appreciate it to get It. Long time since the eighties. If you don't keep up, you get left behind.

[@vecernicek2]

It's a nice eulogy you wrote, but I'd imagine the most underrated songwriter is likely someone who writes great songs but isn't exactly a world-famous author of major hits. So, not Don McLean.

[@43df-eg4cv]

agree

[@jojojojojojojojojojojojob]

Many singer songwriters guitar players are underrated. Gordon lightfoot, jim croce, james taylor, carol king.. all great guitar players in their own rights. Recently, people lost their minds when someone ranked taylor swift as the best guitarist. Didnt bother me. Whoever ranked that is entitled to their opinion. Strumming chords is playing guitar. Writing songs, melody, chord progression is also part of it and she wrote some good shit. There are many shredders out there who cant put together anything worth hearing. Nevermind selling out an arena. Anyway i digress.

[@davidrice3337]

I would say he's underappreciated

[@tobie9205]

I'm 23 years old and currently studying in university. I discovered a lot more of your songs this year and I simply love it! Castles in the air was my #1 most listened song this year:) I started learning guitar by myself 2 years ago and I love learning and playing your songs. Your music touches all ages and audience and I hope it will be that way for a long time. Cheers!

[@charlie-obrien]

"American Pie" came out in May 1971 and later that year an 11 year old kid begged his Mom for a guitar that Christmas. After I got my guitar and went for lessons my teacher asked me what songs I wanted to learn and I told her "American Pie". She felt that it might be too much for a beginner but I would learn it one line at a time and build up the strumming technique and by the end of the school year it became the first song I ever learned to play well. When my daughter was born it was her Lullabye and to this day is still my favorite to play for myself family and friends. To find a video here, with Don McLean, himself giving guitar playing and singing tips is simply the greatest thing I have ever seen on KZbin. If you ever look at these comments Mr McLean, I want you to know that your talent is a gift you have given to us all and may you be repaid tenfold for the happiness that has brought the world.

[@ezrvs]

I just saw Don McLean in concert at Wildhorse Pass casino in Arizona. Great concert. Wish I’d had the chance to thank him for these informative videos I’ve enjoyed. Great guy.

[@budsurtees4224]

Don McLean is an American treasure and a legend. His songs are poems set to music, and his guitar playing has always been phenomenal. He's been a huge influence on musicians throughout the world. It's one of my great regrets that I've never been able to see him live in concert, but I have everything he has ever recorded in my collection. Salute.

[@grandadsworkshop2455]

Don McLeans voice never fails to take me back to my late teens learning his songs on my guitar and wishing I could sing like that. there is a sliding double stop that will always be Don McLeans. Thanks for all the happy memories and the pleasure of playing your songs on my guitar

[@Stillsurfing]

Hey Don. You were the first person I ever saw in concert. My mum and Dad took me to see you at Newcastle City Hall, in England, when I was in my early teens. I remember it clearly. How you had everyone holding their breath as you walked them through your words and song with silent pauses in those sacred moments.. How I could hear my own heart beat and swear I could hear everyone else's heartbeats. The air was electric and the whole room was as one. I remember crying and not wanting it to end. I will ever hold you dear to me, you are an inspiration and still when I listen to "Empty Chairs" it makes the hairs on the back of my neck stand on end. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for what you have brought to the world. x

[@josephr.lejeune4539]

Yes, pure beauty in exploring and sharing the mysteries of the guitar, the voice and the spirit to convey love effortlessly. Thank you Don!

[@leeption1]

Hello,don. My name is A. J. I am a blind guitar player.I wanted to write to you. To tell you that you are my favorite singer song writer. And influences on my guitar playing. When I first heard your version of Roy orbison’s crying. Which is one of my all time. Favorite songs you sing. I became interested in playing guitar. Also as a vocalist,you have been an influence on me as a singer as well. Mister MacLaine I wanted to just thank you sir. For your music, and for posting this guitar video.

[@jaimealexisedades8871]

Wow Leeption nice 👍 to know ! Continue to sing and play your guitar ...

[@williams.1130]

One of my favorite guitar players is blind. Jeff Healy. If you've never heard of him you should check him out. He's incredible. He plays some of the best blues and plays his guitar on his lap

[@stanphillips7277]

I have sight but sometimes I use this exercise that was recommended to me in order to get a feel for the instrument, instead of staring at the neck and the frets and dots in order to have a reference as to where to put your fingers, and it helps me to not just know my fingers are where I want them to be, but it's a way of hearing what I sound like. I can focus on the sound alone and then make adjustments if I'm in the wrong place. It helped me (I was just doing it last night) to hear the vibrato or lack thereof and it's a cool way to train my ears. I closed my eyes, but it's still a tribute to the human spirit, guys like you and Stevie Wonder, Ray Charles, there's a guy named Jeff Healey who plays it kinda layer out across his lap like a steel guitar...I'm in a nursing home and have emphasema and I had a back surgery. I had a little money and I hadn't played in years so I decided I could either never play again, or I could buy an electric guitar and amp and headphones since I have a roommate. I found it unacceptable that I'd have put in all the time I did to learn, and just be a spectator and listen to others. I'm still working on how to get comfortable playing. I'm under Hospice care from the Emphasema but I've given up cigarettes and feel fine. I just haven't walked in 9 months since my back surgery so I play from bed. It's a little difficult to sit upright, I lean back against the top of the adjustable bed otherwise my back starts hurting. I am hopeful that ill build up the muscles, and take some pressure off my spine, and then I'll be able to sing a little bit. My lungs aren't what they used to be, but at least now I have an excuse for my singing lol! I love the song American Pie so I'm going to try and learn that next, I already know the words, and it's one of those songs that's just a lyrical masterpiece. So many references to other songs and musicians. I just love it , I never seem to get tired of it and I could never figure out all the chords, I think he might use an alternate tuning on the album version. American Pie I think is the name of the album. I don't know if you lost your sight or never had it but it's got him on the cover with his thumb up and the fingerprint part facing the camera and stuck way out, and it's painted with an American flag right on his thumb. Ok man, I figure if you were able to write a comment, then you oughta' be able to read one so, keep on keepin' on , we're all dealing with something, and being blind is a hell of a thing but at least you got music in your life. I'm 49 but the Drs say I have the lungs of someone twice my age, I don't want anyone to pity me though. I know I'm blessed, I'm doing better than 99% of the people in this world I know it, I have all my needs met, and alot of just wants. Like my guitar and amp, those aren't necessary for survival, but they sure are good for the spirit...I'm at peace and that's no small thing...I have a relationship with God and that means everything to me, I hope you have peace in your life regardless of you being blind, peace be with you my fellow guitar playin'friend... sincerely Stan in Miami ✌️🙏

[@stanphillips7277]

@@williams.1130 He's awesome right?! I don't know if you've seen the movie Roadhouse but it's his band...I just mentioned him and then read yours lol.

[@williams.1130]

@@stanphillips7277 Yea man Healy is one of the best to ever play! Since you mentioned faith you should check out a band called Jesus Culture. Not your typical Christian music, they've got some really rocking tunes. Anyway God bless ya man I really hope youre back on your feet soon. One thing is for sure having the ability to play guitar is a huge blessing in times like that man. Faith, guitar and the amazing medical advancements we are making can only help brother. Keep the positivity and the groove going man! Take care

[@beeleo]

This was just a wonderful way to spend a half hour. The time just flew by. Thanks!!!

[@StuartGrant-fm6ti]

I Still consider Vincent as the best song ever written and it brings a tear everytime...

[@tomf9292]

Thank you Don for these tips and some of the most beautiful music ever written!

[@king_fresh27]

It’s so cool that he just casually does things like this, it’s like he’s just a normal person teaching you things, how neat

[@Dippides]

and recommends a $10,000 guitar.

[@kennethchambers9949]

Vincent is one of the most beautiful songs I've ever heard. One of my favorite to sing and play and yeah he is a nice guy. I met him once in 80,s.

[@simontunnicliffe2107]

Yeah more people should do things like this, Paul McCartney, David Gilmore, Pete Townshend etc

[@brentoncrowhurst8338]

That was awesome. An intimate inside look with a true legend.

[@vonkirkus7115]

A gentleman does things like this, cool!

[@pahhaw4251]

I’ve always loved you - but now that I’m restarting my love affair w/the guitar, I think you’re F-ing amazing!❤️. Thank you so much for sharing your time to post this….it means so much for the legacy of this wonderful instrument.

[@Vikezupa]

Don’s lyrics are genius. He paints a clear picture for us to live in for a few minutes. Just read some of his lyrics. Beautiful.

[@robertbrowne4049]

Don is so generous with his talent and his technique this is wonderful I’ve been listening for 50 years now and your still on fire!

[@TelecasterLPGTop]

He sure is, I heard him play in Sydney's Hyde Park almost 50 years ago. He just walked out of his hotel and started playing for free. Isn't that cool or what ? I was 18.

[@corryjookit7818]

@@TelecasterLPGTop What a great and wonderful memory to have. I did see him in concert in the Playhouse here in Edinburgh. My friend and I bought a small box beside the stage. I felt as though I could reach out and touch him, he was so close. When he sang Vincent the audience sat entranced. You really could have heard a pin drop. Then, when he sang American Pie, a nod in the right place and people joined in with a couple of the chorus lines. Magical.

[@fredweening7436]

Hard to believe it's been 50 years of his great music

[@michaelbergman1708]

My mom bought American Pie when I was barely eleven years old. My family wore out the entire record from the title track to Vincent to Everybody Loves Me, Baby to Babylon. Thank you for all of your music.

[@tomjones1796]

And dont forget .....Winterwood another beautiful composition😊

[@suesjoy]

My second grade teacher used to play that album all the time! One of the best songs ever written is American Pie. 💖💖💖💖💖

[@alexjacob3735]

Listen to Birthday Song it's so underrated

[@garrettstack3348]

Thank you so much. I put down my Martin 12-string in 1972 and went to piano. I picked it up again last summer. I'm back in heaven. Your tips and clear presentation will make us all better. Thank you for the lesson. Keep 'em coming.

[@zaphodbeeblebrox9109]

"What you want is a 1950s Martin" Yeah, Don. I know.

[@stephensasnette1340]

🤣

[@soofitnsexy]

I HAVE A 1950 D 18 AMAZING EXCEPT FOR SOME INTONATION ISSUES....BUT BEST MARTiN I EVER PLAYED OR OWNED

[@octaviof.g.7316]

let go out and get one real quick. Sell my Honda first.

[@zaphodbeeblebrox9109]

@@octaviof.g.7316 that should cover it.

[@budsurtees4224]

@daniel sebold Where in Saigon? And how much would it cost? I could do a trip to Saigon as soon as the virus restrictions are lifted.

[@georgesember9069]

Thanks very much for sharing. I’m a 77 year old player using a nylon string classical guitar. I recently had joined a a Saturday morning coffee shop group singing and playing. Unfortunately, the virus closed the shop and the lockdown cancelled our music. I’m now trying to use this downtime to learn more music, just in case singing and playing music becomes legal again!

[@mnelson56]

Mr. McLean: so great to see you this way! First album I ever bought was American Pie. I learned guitar listening to you, the tone, the touch. I'm sitting here playing along with my (non-cutaway) Collings acoustic. This is the kind of peace I need on election day. Love you, sir.

[@nikkip6627]

I am 75 years old , Don , could you sing for me once again : and I love you so ? I regularly go back to your old recordings , but I would love to see you singing it ,now....an old fan from way back who never strayed away!

[@MommyBlogExpert]

I'm a Baby Boomer and I have always LOVED AMERICAN PIE. You are STILL one of my favorite singers of all time and I really enjoyed this! Thanks for this awesome tutorial which I've shared with my son who loves learning guitar from the best.

[@kenjipardilla2666]

Hahahhaa

[@itsmedante.5325]

ok boomer.

[@donmclean9700]

Hello Thanks for your comment and supports, your comments and constant support has brought me this far. Keep Supporting ❤️ Please send me a mail via. [e-mail]

[@richardichard4237]

What a treat to see this humble talent offer his wisdom here. His smiling face shows he still LOVES what he does...strumming a guitar and singing. Thank you for this Mr McLean. More please...!

[@michaelgreenwell4423]

Thanks a million. What a down to earth guy! I was 19 when I first heard American Pie. It blew me away. What a great song for the times. Now I'm 68. Retired. But I practice 4 hours a day. I always think: Mike you know it's too late to "get there" but then I answer: so what? That's not why you are doing this. Anyway I learned some great things from your video and I will do what I can from what you showed. ... Can't thank you enough! Mike.

[@petersmith-iz6im]

Thanks for this , Mr. McLean- I have been playing and singing solo for many years, so, of course I didn' t need the lesson so much as a bit of company. I'm pretty good at playing and singing, so I should get out there and play more for people. Although I feel tired,etc., videos like this encourage me to get out and perform. People like it, and they need it, and so do I. So thanks for 'dropping by' !

[@janeheron8517]

So nice to see and hear the same sweet guy who let me use his water hose by the Clearwater at Newport '69. Thank you and Ramblin' Jack for making my weekend special!!

[@vanillacreem816]

Wow, a classic rock star from the 70s -kind and humble enough to share his experience and guitar tips to average players like me. What a class act Don is. I wish Page, Keith Richards, Clapton and all these legendary guitar heros would reach out to their fans like this.

[@robertcronin6603]

Yes...they need to remember that it's only because of their fans that they've enjoyed such massive success

[@pepmasters-999]

0:00 Pre-amble 1:04 The guitar itself 1:50 Projecting your music 2:50 Grief and Hope 3:26 Using a flat pick 4:08 Strumming hand position and tone 6:32 Old Martin guitars (and how Mr Maclean's price range may differ from yours...) 7:33 Vibrato of a D-45 8:12 Singing with a guitar 8:31 American Pie 9:30 Dynamics 10:38 Dual role of the guitar 11:27 Fretbuzz central 11:40 Dumping on cutaways 12:30 Fingerpicks 14:09 Empty Chairs 16:18 Plucking loud 18:35 There's More Pretty Girls Than One 19:32 The Midnight Special (finally) 20:13 Damping 21:17 Picking patterns 22:10 Rock About My Sara Jane 23:00 Mo' Midnight Special 24:05 Accented stab 25:00 That's All Right Mama 26:04 And I Love You So 27:40 Hugh McCracken ending, almost 28:09 Take it out! 28:31 Goin' Down Slow

[@pauljojo6855]

Woo hoo! Just harmonized with Don McLean to an old Elvis song. Made my day, thank you sir!

[@WaynetheDent]

Nice one Don - I’ve been fortunate to make my living singing and playing for the past 40 years and you were a great influence when I started out. Seen your concerts here in the uk many times - even had the pleasure of meeting you when you very kindly signed my DM American Pie guitar (no.19 of 71). I’m not a brilliant player but have got better with my picking over the years watching and listening to you. Keep up the good work and thank you Don. Health and happiness. Wayne Denton.

[@martynspooner5822]

Saw him in Sydney Australia in the mid 70s. Till this day the best concert I have ever been to. He played Dylans masters of War on banjo, it was truly mind blowing. A 50s Martin guitar just a dream mind.

[@frankenzerillo8723]

I learned to play guitar playing American Pie. How cool is it that Don shares this knowledge with the world? Pretty cool!!!

[@karenlsorensen61]

Yes, that’s exactly what I was thinking. Amazing man - new respect.

[@Robnord1]

*Thank you Don !* I grew up on your music. 8 tracks in the car, and vinyl in the house. I played them so often they were probably worn out. What a treat to see this vid today! D-16 and OM-21, both gifts from my father. Not even close to pro grade playing, but I enjoy them.

[@rockroller1829]

thank you Don !!! im 52 my mom was always your fan ! i was born in 68 and in the early 70s my mom would play your albums . i would always stair at the album cover with the American flag guitar .. later at the age 11, i would play her acoustic and learned to play your songs on 8 track along with willy Waylon .. thank you so much for giving her the inspiration and the joy of your music !she got to come to one of your signings in the late 90s early 2000s and we have a picture of you two laughing together i think in Cleveland OH!!! thank you don again for pleasing my mom and me and allowing me to learn a great rhythm on guitar ..

[@ProfessorJM1]

The things he talked about, is what I'm talking about...there's not enough out there about acoustic playing, singing, performing. This is great stuff.

[@jfq7223]

Yay Don! Been waiting 40 years for this! Love ya! Joe

[@kenwoodXI3]

What a legend. Pulled at my heart strings too. Love it when artists share their knowledge. I was privileged to see you in concert in the UK way back in the 70’s. Thank you for sharing.

[@ralphbuoncristiani2941]

Saw you perform at the Troubadour in 1972 on my second date with a girl I now have been married to for 45 years. Used to sing and play your songs to her. Wish I had the up close videos to learn the techniques, chords and patterns for the guitar back then. Spent hours with the record player repeating segments. Still playing now but its a lot easier to learn the music with videos like these. Thanks for the music!

[@rogerdalecoble]

I met you backstage in Oklahoma City in 1973 when you opened for Roberta Flack. You showed me some of this same stuff then. I was just a kid and you were the first famous person I had ever met. JUst a regular guy who played, wrote and sang very well. Thanks . Your performance that night of Vincent was the best live song I have ever seen or heard, before or after, no contest.

[@jaimealexisedades8871]

Thank you for your songs you’ve shared to the world Don! I am thankful to have some of your songs covered during my 80s solo gig ( Philippines 🇵🇭) for my bread and butter 🧈! I am 66 now and residing in Toronto!

[@kellycrunkleton5439]

Wow! What a treat. I feel like I got to sit in with him. The love he has for the guitar is palpable. Thank you!!!!!

[@VleiRatFilms]

I found this by chance .. What a joy to see the man who brought us Vincent and American Pie.. and hear gold coming from that voice and guitar. Magic.

[@Jack-lo3ky]

Every word he spits out during American pie are pivotal moments in American history, took me while to memorize the entire song and once I did I still heard something different everytime and you learn how amazingly poetic and talented he is.

[@nickn1316]

Thank You Don for inviting me into your living room and not just sharing those invaluable tips but for for giving me your time and inspiring me to work harder and become what I want to become - You are a Legend 🙏😇

[@mjsmcd]

Boy id love to take guitar lessons from this man😊😊

[@debatabletruths6687]

Legend mate; over these many years your songs have made me dance, sing and sometimes cry.

[@mikeportjogger1]

What a privilege. A true master class from a legend who has definitely been there and done that. So grateful he's willing to share.

[@gyanissimo]

Thank you Don McLean, you inspired me when I started learning the guitar. You are one of the greatest musicians for my generation. What a pleasure to hear from you about the Basic's. Thank you so much! Cheers

[@davidclarke1320]

I was never good at fingerpicking till I first heard your song "Castles in the Air" when I was a teenager. You're one of my biggest musical inspirations.

[@jimdandy6452]

I just LOVE it when a true master takes time to show us how he does his (or her craft) Thank you so much Don!!!

[@davidcurtis7547]

Such a great artist . I had all of his albums . Playing favorites was a gift ..crying in the chapel is a great example

[@ghostenthusiast7792]

Their * (?)

[@elkalabaw7665]

50 years later he tells the young folks all these. these were jealously guarded secrets when we were moving heaven and earth to learn guitar back in the day.

[@walterduran9774]

Lol!!

[@corryjookit7818]

@@walterduran9774 less of the young folk. I'm calling it eternally young.

[@andrewbowen8122]

You know as a lover of great music and God knows they were so many great singer songwriters from your day? I have to say that you’ve improved like a fine wine and to my eyes and ears are actually better now than ever. Another favourite of mine Nick Lowe has very much done the same and has just gotten better with age.

[@enicaristo3284]

you are an american legend, and american pie is both one of the best folk songs and folk albums of all time. you will never be forgotten. thx from germany!

[@nicholaswoolfenden5254]

What a guy. Seriously. Anyone who can write a song like Vincent is a treasure. He is so humble yet so deep. Many thanks Mr McLean. God bless you.

[@donward1590]

Man oh man that was just like sitting in the room having a one on one tutorial with you Don. Thank you so much for taking the time to share some of your secrets with us.

[@ONESNZER0S]

an epic moment to have a superb singer songwriter communicate his experience and learnings. Many thanks Don!!

[@karenlsorensen61]

WOW! Wow! WOW! I’ve been playing guitar for over 25 years and I cant’t imagine how advanced I would be now, if I had seen this when I first started playing. Don, I can’t thank you enough for these insightful and well articulated perspectives and pieces of advice. I have a higher level of respect for you after watching this. 👏🤝👊

[@Michael_Arnold]

Your songs were first hits when I was 16/17 and I was blown away by the depth of emothion, the poetry, and your exquisite voice. About six years later you visited Ireland on a European tour and I heard you live. Pure heaven. Started learning guitar a month ago (after a lifetime in music) and my teacher wants me to tackle my first song! American Pie, I said, it's got to be! And I'll aim to sing it better than you! Thanks Don, you've given me so much joy and beauty.

[@guitarsword1]

Thanku for this troubadour tips lesson from the legendary Don McLean. U have given us so much Don and ur experience, wisdom and knowledge will help generations of singer/songwriters.

[@johnpinkoczi4797]

Thanks Don! Your music has always had a special place in my life. These tips are priceless. You rock brother.

[@guitar1950]

Dynamics. One of the best examples of this is Eva Cassidy. Her guitar and singing moves from soft to loud in most all of her songs.

[@tomjones1796]

I fell in love with the guitar when I first heard Vincent on "American Pie"the record got such a caning ....had friends we knew and sang all the songs ...saw Don in Sydney when I was about 19...so nice to see the inspiration for me picking up a guitar...Thanks Don...greetings from Oz😊

[@antoniovillasor6484]

Don McLean is an icon in Classic guitar. He teaches in very gentle way, simple but real to his experience as a professional. Intimate to his guitar.

[@dphotos007]

His writing is so wonderful. When growing up what pieces of literature did he read to get his knowledge of words. Thank you for all your tips.

[@jeremyyong3975]

This is as real as it gets!!! Raw and unedited, real guitar tone ... so relax with the singing !!! Super respect 👍👍

[@peterlaidler3895]

Saw Don live in a small UK theatre over 35 years ago. Just him and the guitar........what a performer

[@rikyjo8966]

Thank you, sir. For it all. For everything. For the laughter and the tears and ... everything.

[@RonaldvanHoove]

How wonderful that this great musician and poet shares his knowledge with us. His songs have moved me and so many others. Inspired so many to pick up the guitar and sing. From an era when authenticity and craftsmenship still mattered. Thanks Don, for your music and for your willingness to teach us. It is much appreciated.

[@craigromero7624]

Love Ya Don McLean! Loved your TLA concert in Philly. Thank u 4 the masterclass on 100 yrs of guitarin n dynamic vocal n superb songwriting! Prayin health n prosperity from all His Angels!

[@chriscaldwellvoiceovers]

A guitar lesson from DON McCLEAN!? Wow. I am overjoyed. Thank you so much for taking the time to do this.

[@EricW6800]

My father who is not among us anymore owned each album you made and saw you live in the netherlands twice in the 80's, I know all songs from those albums by heart . I grew up with your amazing textwriting and feel in your songs and my first notes on a guitar were your songs, and I learned the English language pretty well even before learning it at school. I'm 52 now, and still i'm learning. Thanks for this delightfull lesson Mr McLean!!!

[@petecoldwell4061]

Thanks Don - I've been a fan for years , had the privilege to see you live once in Sheffield UK & still remember it well.

[@thescallywagcrew]

Two things wrong with watching this video, Don. We should have had KZbin in the 60's, when I was "thinking" about learning the guitar - and didn't! Had I seen you sharing your wonderful knowledge then, well I certainly would have started to learn instead of waiting until I'm 71!! Second thing that's wrong with the video was that I couldn't stop watching it, I was hooked on your every word - so my tea has gone cold!! ;-) Seriously, it's great that a legendary Master can take the time to share things with us, thanks Don and all the very best.

[@mikeburns9585]

I know that you have been shined on by the world. I just want to share with you that your song, was what I learned first. Because your song touched me, I want to thanks you for my 50 years of music. You sir are guilty of making thousands of people having to have me butcher your muse. Thanks again. You made a real difference in my life sir. Thank you sincerely.

[@davidgriffin2703]

Don, you have been a inspiration to millions , I’ve sang ( tried) 👍, I will keep trying , because of people just like you , God bless pal 👍🇬🇧🇺🇸🙏

[@IvanSDizon460]

Nice to see Don mclean alive and kicking.

[@gypsyjoy7]

I loved that...wonderful...I so admire your work....outstanding.... :)

[@williamadams9110]

I saw Don perform in Belfast Grovenor Hall in the early Eighties. He had the audience in the palm of his hands as they joined in the chorus of Babyon. It was a truly magical thing to witness such togetherness and warmth in a battered and divided city. He is the ultimate singer songwriter performer - unsurpassed.

[@ronaldhobson5953]

Absolutely Brilliant

[@johnkiernan287]

Very nice of a legend to let all his experience out, and show his great ability , hope all ye young kids appreciate this, as u should , this guys a master man on acoustic, great to hear he still loves it as much in his darker days, we don’t have his quality these days, for sure, and never will, ♥️🇮🇪🇮🇪☘️☘️👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏

[@philbreen3903]

Best solo performer I've seen by miles thanks Don!

[@ceridavies5688]

Thank you Don McLean. I have loved your music from the first time I heard Vincent when I was in school many years ago.you are an inspiration.

[@victorliang9997]

I had a chance to go to a concert to see Don in the 80s. He was opening for another band; which one, I won’t mention. At that time I felt a bit sad because he came across as very bitter and did a short set. I don’t know if it’s because he felt that he shouldn’t have been opening for this band. If he ever reads this comment, I just want him to know that many of us went to the concert to see him, not the other band. I’m so glad that he seems to be in a different and better space now. What a great story teller.

[@williamreaves3780]

Thank you very much Don. Your songs are SO from the heart, and that's what makes you so special.

[@bluesmonkey4463]

Thank You So Much Don ! I've been listening 50 years !

[@dkeating4084]

Mr. McLean I thank you sir, both for sharing your expertise and your music. I am not a guitar player, I try, I noodle I pick it up and put it down but I couldn't even be classified as a guitar cleaner! I was introduced to your music 36 years ago by someone I have no respect for but will always have respect for your music and seeing you giving of your knowledge freely while at the same time celebrating other artists was a joy to watch. I smiled so much when you played midnight special , that's all right momma, and your closing number about health and your smile at the end was just legendary .may this message find you well and may the good times you have given others reward you tenfold.

[@georgemajor9589]

Great video Sir.... nice to see a legend just talking about the thing he obviously still loves doing, and leaving the outtakes in... thank you very much 👍🏻

[@billmoss2877]

Don, thank you for your playing insight. Please make more videos as your conversational instructional style and reminiscences are priceless.

[@mattrogers1946]

Thanks for posting Don, the memory of your music goes back to my childhood.

[@connieworcester55]

"This world was never meant for one as beautiful as you". ❤ ~Don McLean~ "Vincent".

[@TheCream14]

Such a great song writer and performer. Heard him in college, and I've been a fan ever since. SO COOL that he is sharing his guitar insights with everyone! Great guy!

[@stephenleverich7659]

Thank you Mr. McLean. Both entertaining and educational.

[@kittywisdom4534]

EXQUISITE TEACHER, troubadour and a tender poet. Don, you are loved by many! Thanks xoxox

[@daverheaume6596]

$$$Million dollar advice from an American icon! Don, I’ve been a drummer all my life and now in my 60’s , i’m learning to play acoustic guitar. When you spoke of the percussive and rhythmic nature of the guitar......a light bulb when on! Sooo True!. (i’m gonna embrace that important point, as i learn to play). But in addition i’d like to point out how much i’ve learned by studying your vocal style and delivery. I’m thinking at the moment of “Crying”” and “Castles in the air”. Both have an amazing! vocal technique which uses subtle timing shifts to build that tension and drama you referred to. (in addition to the common other vocal techniques other good singers use such as volume and pitch manipulation.) Singers!...., analyze his vocal delivery abilities till you “get” them deep inside you, and people will say you have “magic” in your performance.......... ( That’s what i’m gonna do as well). Thanks Don! for your GREAT music all these years.

[@dandunseith658]

Same story Dave, but for some strange reason when I crossed over I stopped counting for guitar. Basically all drummers have is counting. Guitarist have chord charts, tabs, etc. So, don’t forget to count!

[@robertwjtaylor]

Thank you so much Don McLean for the excellent tips and tricks you have always been my favorite singer-guitarist, and I saw you live twice in 1988 and 1982, and American Pie is my favorite song, you still sound great, love and peace brother!

[@creightonfreeman8059]

Thanks for sharing Don. I remember the first coffee shop open mic night I ever played back in.....it must have been '77 or '78 .... my first guitar teacher took me to this little hole in the wall called the Red Horse Hollow and pushed me up on stage. I don't remember what I played but I remember the guy onstage after me played "Vincent", and my guitar teacher said, "there's a guy whose music you ought to look into playing, Don Mclean....great songwriter."

[@internetdinosaur8810]

Also I'd love to hear you talk about your Tapestry album. Such an underrated gem with underrated songs. In particular No Reason For Your Dreams and the original version of Castles In The Air. Such lovely songs.

[@denniswalker9680]

Great video Don, really enjoyed watching this after all these years when my wife and I saw you in concert in Preston Guild Hall in England 1975. We’re all a bit older now but your music lives on in our hearts, thank you.

[@brianohehir9515]

Thanks sooo much for empty chairs. I worked it out myself and pleased to see I was pretty close when I watch you play it. Such a wonderful song I have loved it my whole life! Thanks for your generosity!

[@jeffbradley1]

Wow. Don McClean just gave me a guitar lesson! Don was the first live concert I ever saw. Ontario Place in Toronto. Stayed with me to this day. Thanks many times over.