Music icon Don McLean, now 79, has some heartfelt advice for pop sensation Taylor Swift as she navigates the complexities of her skyrocketing career. After decades in the industry, McLean, best known for his timeless hit American Pie, has seen the highs and lows of fame. His song held the record for the longest number-one hit for nearly 50 years until Taylor’s All Too Well surpassed it. Now, with a wealth of experience under his belt, McLean is offering his insights to the 34-year-old star.
The Pressure of Fame and the Importance of Happiness
Taylor Swift is currently enjoying a break from her whirlwind Eras Tour, relaxing at her Rhode Island mansion with her boyfriend, Travis Kelce, and her A-list friends. But despite her success, McLean is concerned about the toll her “monster” fame could take on her mental health. In a recent interview, he emphasized the importance of prioritizing happiness above all else.
“She’s doing everything better than everyone else, from videos to performances to songwriting,” McLean praised Taylor. “But with all that success, I just hope she stays happy. Fame can be tough, and I’ve been fortunate to navigate it myself.”
Finding Balance Beyond the Spotlight
For McLean, one of the keys to maintaining his well-being throughout his career has been cultivating interests outside of music. “I have so many things that keep me grounded,” he explained. “I don’t dwell on what I don’t have, and that’s crucial to staying content.”
He also advised against chasing commercial success at the expense of personal satisfaction. “You have to love what you’re doing, regardless of whether it’s a hit,” McLean said. “Worrying about public approval is a surefire way to lose your joy.”
Lessons from the Industry: Ownership and Control
McLean’s cautionary tales extend beyond personal well-being. He touched on the importance of understanding the business side of the industry, something Taylor Swift has also encountered firsthand. Describing record companies as “the biggest thieves on the planet,” McLean shared his satisfaction with owning all of his work, thanks to sound legal advice early in his career.
He pointed out Taylor’s battle with Big Machine Records, where she lost the rights to her original recordings—a move that led her to re-record her albums. “Taylor is incredibly smart and talented, but even she got caught in a situation where she didn’t own her work,” McLean remarked. “It’s a tough lesson, but she’s handling it brilliantly.”
A Mutual Respect Between Two Music Icons
Despite the challenges, McLean holds Taylor Swift in high regard, calling her an “example of what talent and hard work can achieve.” He noted that her rise to superstardom didn’t happen overnight—she spent 15 years in the industry before reaching her current level of fame.
Their mutual respect was evident when Taylor sent McLean flowers and a handwritten note after breaking his chart record. In her message, she expressed gratitude for his influence, writing, “Your music has been so important to me. Sending love from one writer of long songs to another.” McLean was deeply touched, calling Taylor a “class act” and sharing the note on social media.
A Legacy of Talent and Hard Work
As Don McLean reflects on his career, he sees Taylor Swift as a shining example of what dedication and talent can achieve. His advice to her—and to all artists—is clear: prioritize happiness, stay true to your passion, and always be aware of the business side of fame. With that mindset, Taylor Swift is likely to continue thriving in the ever-demanding world of music.