Is American Pie a One-Hit Wonder?

When we think of Don McLean, the iconic American singer-songwriter best known for his timeless ballad, American Pie, it's easy to assume that he was a one-hit wonder. However, the truth is much more interesting and complex. In this article, we'll delve into Don McLean's career to uncover whether American Pie was indeed a one-hit wonder, or if he had several hits that made him a singer with a rich discography.

Understanding the Myth of the One-Hit Wonder

A one-hit wonder is typically someone who had only one significant hit, usually defined as scoring one top 40 hit. However, Don McLean was not a one-hit wonder. His only US HOT 100 No. 1 hit was American Pie, but he had a remarkable number of other hits that put his career on par with many legendary artists.

Don McLean's Discography and Chart Successes

Don McLean's discography is much more diverse and impressive than the oft-overlooked American Pie. He had a total of 9 top 100 hits in the United States, of which 6 were top 40 hits. This speaks to not only the quality of his material but also his consistent ability to create chart-topping songs.

McLean's second biggest hit, "Crying," brought him significant success in the US, peaking at No. 5 in the charts almost a decade after the release of American Pie. This hit further cemented his status as a vocalist with longevity and depth.

Global Success: The UK Perspective

McLean's chart success extends beyond the United States. In the UK, his hit "American Pie" initially peaked at No. 2 in 1971 when original artist Don McLean released it. However, the song's legacy continued when Madonna released her cover version in 2000, which reached No. 1 on the UK singles chart. This was a significant achievement, considering Madonna's global appeal.

Don McLean also scored two more chart-topping hits in the UK: "Vincent" in 1972 and "Crying" in 1980. His discography shows a pattern of consistent chart success, with a total of 5 top 40 hits and 3 top 10 songs in the UK. These hits represent his dominance in the British music scene over several decades.

The 1990s and 2000s Revivals

McLean's career didn't end there. In 1991, a version of American Pie re-entered the UK charts, peaking at No. 12. This revival was a testament to the enduring appeal and importance of his work. In 2012, another version of the song as a digital single, managed to peak at No. 78, further demonstrating the zeitgeist of his music.

Conclusion: Beyond a One-Hit Wonder

Far from being a one-hit wonder, Don McLean had multiple hits over the course of his career. His discography includes 90s and 2000s re-releases, further proving his lasting influence. The enduring success of songs such as American Pie, "Crying," and "Vincent" speaks to the emotional and musical depth of his work. McLean's career is a testament to the power of songwriting and the longevity of hits that resonate with audiences through the decades.