I was just thinking that when I die, I will be leaving in the company of other people of my time, this time. The time of the greatest music. We will have a lot to share, so it will be nice.
On February 3rd 2024 it has been 65 years since that tragic day we LOST BUDDY HOLLY, Ritchie Valens and The Big Bopper. Yet their music still Rocks to this very DAY! Thank You Don McLean for this awesome Tribute to the entire Rock & Roll Industry. Rock On!
@@finallife87 True, though the tragedy is that were taken from us in their prime. Buddy Holly was only 22 when the crash happened. Who knows what he would've been able to do if he had more time.
This song seems to hold a special place for many people... and rightly so... So for everyone: May the road rise up to meet you. May the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face; the rains fall soft upon your fields and until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of His hand. This traditional Irish blessing is an ancient Celtic prayer.
I'd heard this before and looked for it, but never didn't know where nor what I was really looking for. Thank you very much for bringing this to us. God's blessings be on thee as well.
It’s April 28, 2023 and I just heard the President/Prime Minister of South Korea sang this at a official state banquet and diplomatic reception. He did the first verse and I gotta give him credit. He won over everyone in that room. Well done sir. You touched many American hearts. Thank you.
My granddaughter came in my room singing this! Sure brought back great memories from my high school days. 50+ yrs difference between us & we both have great taste! ❤
@@michaelmoslak2975 my father passed in 2018 and I often think about how disappointed he was in the decline of America. He never got over it and I often think about him when I listen to The Statler Brothers song " Do you remember these". I am glad he didn't have to endure covid or the insanity of the last couple of years. Let's try to Make America Great Again for my father and all our past generations that gave everything for this country.
My father died 40 minutes ago. My Oldest memory with him was dancing to this song, that was the happiest I remember him being. The smile on his face... In his later life it was very rare that you saw him smile. Fuck Cancer.
The family met today in my granny's house, and we ended up sharing stories and talking about the kind of support we've gotten from people learning of his death. I always knew he had friends from every walk of life, but there were people sending their condolences from everywhere, even retail workers in shops he frequented and chemists learned of his death and contacted us. Teachers from educational facilities he hadn't learned at in 25+ years too. I've been placed in charge of making a playlist of music that he would have liked to play before he's cremated and this song will definitely be on it.
This was my dad's favorite song. He passed away on July 17, 2022, right after our whole family sang it too him. This is a song that is very precious to our family. 💔😢
My Dad would play this on his guitar when I was a kid. He died in 2023. The song came into my head this morning and here I am listening as tears roll down my face.😢 This song will always remind me of him.
"Did you write the book of love?" - these words are the words of such a pure and beautiful depth in love and gift wrapped in the most poetry! Together with book, we all learn how to love. The love of the book of love is the love of learning how to love everything
The songwriters from that period were so talented. In a song that lasts for 8 and a half minutes each and every part of the song rhymes. Today's songwriters simply couldn't achieve such a masterpiece.
I was 20 yrs old when this became popular, immediately I was caught in by its nostalgic and haunting lyrics because I knew the meaning was tied to the tragic loss of 3 young artists and rock and roll. I'm 72 now, and I thank God for having been part of the best years, best poets and best music ,my body's old but I'm still young inside 😮.
Can you tell me what the heck he’s trying to say? I know about the plane crash and that explains only the first verse, but what other kind of real-world events are being alluded to in this coherent fantasy yet incoherent allegory? I grew up on this song, hearing it on the oldies station and having almost memorized it by the mid-2000s, but I could never make head or tail of it.
@@albertnortononymous9020He's talking about the 50s and 60s dying. The end of an innocent era. Not just Buddy Holly...he brings up the Manson murders of Sharon Tate and her friends when he says "Helter Skelter in the Summer swelter". The dying of a more innocent time in history 😢😢
I met Buddy Holly in 1958. He was a fun person to hang out with for a while. Buddy enjoyed every minute of life. Today, I'm 75 and a writer. Thanks Buddy for inspiration you can do anything life! R.I.P. . . .😇
The lyrics are everything. It's the history of rock and roll without using the names. The King was Elvis, the players on the grass were the Beatles at Shea Stadium, their last concert, moss on a rolling stone refers to Dylan taking over the scene, and on and on. Maybe THE greatest song ever written. Pure genius.
This has been one of my favorites songs since I first heard it. I saw Don McLean live at my college campus in the mid-seventies and he obliged all of us by performing it. What a thrill!!
I'm a 35 year old bartender at a karaoke bar in Porto Alegre-Brazil. I think last December a group of North Americans were staying in a hotel next to the bar and decided to go sing one night. One of them started singing this song which brought me a wonderful nostalgic feeling as I used to hear this song from time to time in my childhood and given a while later I never heard it again and didn't know the name and artist. I used shazam that night and I never missed this song again, and now every time I listen to it I have a smile and a tear on my face as I remember my childhood. The guy who sang it doesn't know my name, and I don't know his, but on that magical night, we did each other really well (he with the music, me with the cocktails). Thanks for that, friend!
Bacana Nery. Eu tambem procuro uma musica que tocava em um comercial da MTV Brasil que começava assim "I used to love every night as religion"... Nunca encontrei a musica e sinto uma frustração enorme por isso. Acho que essa musica deve ter sido feita somente para o comercial, é a unica explicação que encontro :(
I can't even express how good this song is. This song is one of the most American things I have ever listened to! Somber and nostalgic, but also with an undercurrent of happiness in some parts, it just takes you through the decades. It is one of those rare songs that manages to capture the feel of an entire generation of America. It is a song that perfectly embodies of looking back on your youth, on the happy moments that you can nver recapture, but which made you, and which you will cherish forever. And you look back on it with the sobering perspective on adulthood, at how times have changed, and how you can never recapture the simple innocence of your younger years. I really feel that this whole song is a metaphor for the loss of innocence and youth that an entire generation of America experienced in the '60's. But this song can also resonate with virtually everyone at everytime, making it truly universal. Plus, it's impossible not to sing along to! Thank you Don McLean, thank you for making one of the best songs of all time!
My 60 year old daughter's funeral was two days ago. She was special. She had planned every segment of her 'Celebration of Life'. The funeral home could not seat everyone as people just kept coming in. She had been fighting cancer for eight years and she never gave up. Her faith and her positive attitude kept her going. But her body finally ran out of steam. The last song she requested and asked people to join in was American Pie. Everyone, including this 86 year old Mom sang. There was not a dry eye in the place. I told you she was special.
Very moving about your brave daughter...tears in my eyes. I don't think the repeated line, "the day the music died" totally applies to her though. It's clear the music in your heart for your daughter is still very alive and will always play❤. Take good care.
My dad used to play this on record for me when I was a little kid. Sadly he dad passed away 2 years ago and for some stupid reason we didn't have contact the last few years. I was there by his side at the end, but never got a chance to tell him how much he really meant to me and how sorry I was for not keeping in touch. Love you dad.
If you were there, he already knew. I lost my dad 8 years ago. It feels like an eternity has passed since then, but I know I will see him again and he will be cancer-free once again.
I'm so sorry to hear that. It truly breaks my heart. Forgiveness is essential in our lives, for our time here on earth is short. That's why I believe in Christ, cause I want to live in eternity. God bless you and know you will always have the good memories you shared with your father.
Terrible situation which could have been minimized or prevented. After crying, be a part of a dramatic change in government leadership. Just like this this classic, memories will last but Rock and Roll lives with new leadership. 74 year old former musician and veteran.
My dad died yesterday and this was one of his favorite songs. He had the 45 record and I have early childhood memories of him playing this record on the stero. RIP Daddy. ❤
This is easily one of the greatest songs ever written, if not the greatest. The way Don tells stories through each lyric is still impressive, despite the song being 50 years old. True masterpiece.
Ah, because you know and understand all the songs since the beginning of time, in all languages? " one of the greatest songs ever written, if not the greatest " LOL
I grew up listening to this song and am now in college. In my eyes, this song is the hegemony of all American music of the past 70 years. It has a certain character that makes you think about the lyrics and wrestle with its message. It speaks of America and its turbulent past. The song has the same turbulence and dies out, but the last encore of the chorus swells in emotion giving hope for a future that can give us one more verse and another. The song and America goes on. Thank you Don for such a great song! Happy Thanksgiving y’all! Enjoy yourself some pie and this American Pie today!
Im still trying to decide if its about the Vietnam War, the Buddy Valens plane crash, the JFK assassination, the Beetles, The Rolling Stones, or all of the above
Did you know that this song made such an impression that there were at least 2 "reply" songs made about it? Roberta Flacks "Killing me softly (with his song)"..later remade by the Fugees. Gene Cotton...Sunshine Roses.
I'm so glad I was a teenager in the 70's, we tried to interpret this song while smoking weed. We came to the conclusion that Don had a dream/vision that was telling us not to forget music/humanity. Music is the one thing besides your faith that no one can take from you. Thanks Don - some good old lyrics and story-telling genius. Everyone knows the chorus! Your music will never die. Bless you.
When songs first come out, you don't realize they are timeless classics. I was a kid when this came out and really liked it but didn't really appreciate the genius behind it
The first song I learned to sing in English at 5 years old. The first song I learned to play on the guitar. The song of my life. Timeless, this gives me goosebumps and this feeling for a decade I wish I have lived in.
I remember hearing American Pie for the first time in December 1971 on the old KIMN AM in Denver CO riding around in my moms brand new 72 Gran Torino. I was 13 years old. It continued to get frequent airplay well into 1972 (although a cut-down version rather than the 8 minute plus long version), I didn't even know there was a long version for several years after it was released. Fifty years on, I still occasionally hear it on an oldies station, its in the top 5 of my favorite pop/rock songs of all time. I often wish there was a song like this that told the story of pop music and the culture that went along with it in the decades since, (other than Billy Joels "We didn't start the Fire") They dont write them like that anymore (to borrow the lyrics from an 80s song)....and likely never will.
Lost my mum 3 weeks ago and for some random reason here I am watching this and reading your comment tearing up with a shared bond of sadness with someone I will never know. For all its ills the internet is also wonderful.
I lost my dad too long ago...sorry for your loss of your daddy too...God bless. And God bless rock and roll and music. God speed and RIP our generation now the flight ✈️ 🙏 with all the Figure skaters!! 😢 love and hugs to you for your dad and love and peace of Christ to all ❤ xoxo
Im not american, but damn, the feels on this song keep on hitting. Making me remember memories ive never had, drinking beer in an old timey bar with a group of friends wearing cowboy hats singing, dancing, having fun
This song is about how the music industry literally changed overnight on Feb 3 1959. Gone are the days of singing about happiness and love. Now is death, killing, sin, drugs and debauchery. We are the angels born in hell unable to break satans spell.
Something touches me deep inside every time I hear this. “A Classic 70’s song” Dancing in the gym, I was in seventh grade, basketball games in the gym. Just the best times ever. RIP to the good old days.
I remember I was 12 the 1st time I heard this. I told my mom, "I don't understand this song, but I want to." So my precious mother, who 20 years later took her first computer class, went to the library. There she and the librarian found the lyrics, and (remember this), mimiographed those lyrics. Then she went to the record store and bought the 45f American Pie for me. (If you ask your kids what a 45 is, they will probably say, much like mine, "Uh, is it a gun?") I listened to that 45 and read those lyrics over and over again until one day it clicked for me. I understood what Donem McClain was trying to impress on my young mind. American Pie wasn't just a rock anthem, it became MY anthem.God bless us, the children of the 70s!
When I was a little baby, my mom used to sing this song to me because she didn’t know any lullabies but she knew this by heart. Then I see this gets posted and it brings a tear to my eye every time.
I know this song when I was 14, my tenant played this song and 'Beautiful Sunday' when his presence. It's almost 50 years. Right now, most of Hong Kongers, who are fond of music from the US, have no longer lived in HK
There is no top-40 or popular song like this. This is a thoughtful 8 minute anthology that fondly captures the events and the feelings of "our" age for a couple of decades.
The bit at the end where the music breaks down and then builds again brings tears to my eyes every time. Only music can inspire emotion like that and this has to be the greatest song ever written by a man writing a song about people that inspired him. It's just beautiful and i will never not love it
At 22 yrs old in 2024 i hope this song is not only played, but is admired as deeply as i and many others admire it today. This song is timeless. The celebratory sorrow of a tale of saddness anyone can relate to is unbeatable. I still recall singing this with my grandparents before understanding it and realizing the meaning these words would possess someday. Music is the most universal, easiest understood form of communication. From individual to societal, music can deliver a message otherwise too vague, and too broad.
Yes still. Thank you you young man. I shared this song with my children now 44, 42 and almost 34. They know all the Lyrics and it is a stand up song because when it starts people stand up and start singing ❤
This is poetry, I had a really had drinking problem for a while and my dad slowly lost his love for me. I’m good now and our relationship is golden, I read this comment and immediately called my dad and said this comment to him. Despite my awful drinking and the way he saw me in those days, we always have connected through music. For a while music was the only way I could communicate my feelings to my dad
When I was a little kid, my Dad would play this for me countless times because he knew how much I loved this song. So when he passed away, after a three year battle of A.L.S.😢 I wrote a parody of this song as a tribute to my late father. VERSE 1 Long long time ago, I can still remember how his music used to make us smile. A 1959 born man, thought he had a long lifespan, and we could all be together for a while. But 2016 made us shiver, for his right leg began to quiver, it got worse with each step, he couldn’t take one more step. He wrote software he could upload, used computers, and advanced codes, and now sun’s set on his road, we call it his ORANGE ASPHALT. Oh my my Stephen was a smart guy, he has been here, for 60 years, now he says his good-byes, he’s in Heaven, that’s where today he resides, saying one day you’ll be by my side, one day you’ll be by my side. VERSE 2 Did you know he met a girl, at university where his life unfurled, for she you see was his future love. Their relationship began as friends of course, despite flaws love’s a greater force, and yes they were both blessed by the lord above. Oh he purposed and became engaged, and their requested marriage was arranged, they were the best of husbands and wives, it was the best day of their lives. They had 3 great kids who they both adore, and one married a man of Canadian lore, but sadly the great wedding wasn’t before our man Stephen’s ORANGE ASPHALT. I started singing My my Stephen was smart guy, he has been here, for 60 years, now he says his good-byes, he’s in Heaven, that’s where today he resides’ saying one day you’ll be by my side, one day you’ll be by my side. VERSE 3 Now for decades music was a loved thing, he cherished with his beloved siblings, and wow what a very merry group they were. Yes their loving parents were so filled with joy, they were deeply proud of their girls and their boys, it was an extraordinary concert yes sir. Well he passed his great love for the art, to his 3 kids he loved with all his heart, he entertained them with his gift, and their spirits he did lift. Yeah on his great guitar he was indeed a bliss, and he truly was a musical artist, his musical hands will sorely be missed, oh yes after his ORANGE ASPHALT. We started singing My my Stephen was a smart guy, he has been here for 60 years, now he says his good-byes, he’s in Heaven, that’s where today he resides’ saying one day you’ll be by my side, one day you’ll be by my side. VERSE 4 Destination visitation anticipation for vacation, he loved one spot in this whole nation. Yes up in York Maine was a sensation, at his vast family’s cabin’s location, his thing was nature hiking exploration. Oh Bar Harbor, and Jordon Pond, and Mount Cadillac, Black woods and beyond, on the island he loved it all, Mount Desert Island it is called. Yes Steve loved the state of Maine the very best, yes his favorite in the hemisphere of the west, Maine mourns the loss of one of it’s guests, oh yes after Steve’s ORANGE ASPHALT Maine started singing My my Stephen was a smart guy, he has been here for 60 years, now he says his good-byes, he’s in Heaven, that’s where today he resides, saying one day you’ll be by my side, one day you’ll be by my side. VERSE 5 Oh this song’s title I’ll explain what that is, it’s long story but it goes something like this, it all started with a video game. It has a total of 30 levels it’s true, and we advanced to the level 22, and yes orange asphalt is that level’s given name. Because you control a motorcycle, on a sunset lit road for a while, Stephen took that level to heart, I guess that was his favorite part. Because ever since then he asked from morning to 9, may I name this after, favorite level of mine, we will treasure late Steve’s famous line, “Can I call this ORANGE ASPHALT?”. He’s probably singing My my Stephen was a smart guy, he has been here for 60 years, now he says his good-byes, he’s in Heaven, that’s where today he resides, saying one day you’ll be by my side, one day you’ll be by my side. VERSE 6 We already missed Stephen yes, when he had been cursed with A.L.S., we miss the man he used to be. We took the task to help our man, in any possible way we can, the bad illness proceeded unfortunately. On July 10 2019, his fate we feared had been seen, and zero words were spoken, the hearts of us were broken. And the level Steve admired best, I took to my heart cross my chest, I named the song you know the rest, Steve may call it ORANGE ASPHALT. And I was singing…. My my Stephen was a smart guy, he has been here for 60 years, now he says his good-byes, he’s in Heaven, that’s where today he resides, saying one day you’ll be by my side, one day you’ll be by my side. FINALE We were singing…. My my Stephen was a smart guy, he has been here for 60 years, now he says his good-byes, he’s in Heaven, that’s where today he resides, saying one you’ll be by my side.
Ever since 1969, the Fraternal Odor of Politics 😮& CIGAR Smoke 😢 Has been stinky & in need of Housing. DAMN the Feminist Manifestos of Middle Eastern Hoochi Mamma Dancers.❤❤❤
It's because, besides having a great tune, this song is packed full of Americana, of nostalgia about the times when we didn't let divisive progressive ideologies into our lives, when everyone just lived their lives and let others live theirs.
Not everybody knows this but this entire song is quite literally a tribute to Buddy Holly and a message to tell the world how rock and roll changed since his death this whole song was written in a bar and it is probably the best piece of music composed in a very long time
The song is about Buddy but its about much more then just that. Its also him telling his life of being a paperboy thinking dreaming one day becoming a performer, on up to a high school let down over a girl he had an eye out for. How music along with past events and war changed America. England invasion of music became so popular it overcame even the crown. The falling away from god from the new music misleading a nation away from pure values to do as they pleased and what felt good. Jack on the candle stick is America waking up from its demonic trance ways, maybe when its to late. It close to being prophetic looking at things in today's world.
ME TOO and i'm so glad i did. my parents had my 2 sisters and I in the back of their honda odyssey playing motown, beach boys, 60's and 70's classics and i'm so glad the internet has allowed me to revisit this now at 27 years old. love them so much always and forever
Our oldest son was 5 years old when this was number one and played on the radio all the time. We were in the car and this song came on the radio and my 5-year-old was singing along and I'll never forget him singing, "good ole boys drinking whisky and rye, saying this'll be the day I die. This'll be the day that I die." His head was held high and back and just singing with all his might. I can see it just as clear as I did that summer day in 1973. It's a memory I will always cherish.
My little brother was killed 30 years ago today, Aug 14,1993. He sang this song solo karaoke at a big family reunion just a few weeks before that. It had always been one of my favorite songs, but it definitely hit even harder ever since. Love you and miss you Josh! Bye bye 'til I see you again!
This track was written about a an aeroplane crash in the 60s I think that none other Mr Elvis avoided! Orchestrated by white so called right wing conservative Christian extremists, a life is a life!!!!!!!!!!
Ah that much is true! Mr McLean's track was definitely not overrated at all. I guess it goes on & on, that what Good Visionary and meaningful Music can do as Time goes by etc? That's what it does, it never dies!!!!!!! Yet it is also very true many have fallen by the wayside hence, for quite simply expressing their Music, ideas or feelings, which was not acceptable to some who made them pay the ultimate sacrifice. 'Premeditive' and left little evidence except for the sensitive ones in the know of course, I guess also that's why they get away with it, I hope it doesn't keep happening?
At seventy years of age, I still cry and remember when the music died in my life. Dear children, please hold on to everything you can, and remember this moment always
my grandfather died yesterday. he used to sing this song and he knew every word. i can’t listen to don mclean without thinking about him. i miss him so much but i know that he’s singing in heaven right now. rip papo love you ♥️🎵🙏
When I was a junior in high school I was apart of the A.V. club and actually made a music video to your song because it is one of my all time favorites. And realize this was in 2003. You have touched every generation. This is a true classic. It will never die
WOW, WOW, WOW!!! This is my favourite song of all times. Finally it also has an amazing video. Mr. McLean, you are one of the greatest song writers of the XXth century! Salutes from Italy.
I wish we could have this respect for the art of songwriting again. It was so organic and free. And man, I sure wish I owned that guitar he's playing today
I do and it is slightly overrated as the song is. Dont get me wrong, i love the song too, but what ppl think and interprete in this song is kinda funny.... Just for the record... i am born 62.
Im pretty sure there are references to Bob Dylan Rolling Stone song, The verse with hands were clenched in fists of rage has to do with the Rolling stones concert at Altamont.. they hired the Hells Angels as security and if I remember right there were murders by “security” there. Then riots. With the fires.. Lennon read a book of Marx.. not Lenin.. John Lennon. A verse about the sergeants was Sgt Peppers lonely hearts band.. etc. Anyway.. great sing. Rock was changed after Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens and the Big Bopper died. In the song anyway..
There are some rock 'n roll, pop, rock songs that stand the test of time, that no-one can match the original with a cover, despite valiant attempts and which represent a perfection... This is one of them.
This song is extremely and deeply touching. These are such simple words, but they carry so many meanings. A true poetry that I will never get tired of hearing! Wonderful!
My dad told me a story about Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens and the Big Bopper when I was young. I didn't really believe him as I couldn't believe there was someone named the Big Bopper. Years later, watching the movie La Bamba, I understood it finally and the great loss that happened on that plane. This song reminds me of both of these moments
It's June 3, 2023 and this wonderful song. Is still a big hit and I'm happy! I was 11 years old when it came out. Now I'm 62 and it still resonates with me. As much as it did back then. Thank you Don McLean and thank you to whoever made this video! You did a great job! 😊 🥧 ❤ 🥳 🎶 🎉🥰 🎼 👄🎵
This lyric video is utterly beautifully done. The differing use of fonts and imagery for each verse helps to add to the meaning(s) behind this epic narrative song. It is truly one of the greatest songs of the 20th century and the meanings of it are literally being debated constantly (even though Don McLean broke his silence over the meaning in 2022); this video continues to add to that discussion!
I've loved this song for years,it's so emotional and actually quite breathtaking! His choice of lyrics,music and absolute emotion he put into this song is outstanding!
Ahh yes the #1 greatest and meaningful song of all time (in my own opinion) was here. A piece of track with great storytelling and lyrical performance especially to the "the day the music died" part reminds me of how music changed through the years. Thank you Mr. Don McLean and your American Pie which a half-century old now. - from 🇵🇭
Don was awesome underated in my opinion , The UK also had a version of Don , he was called Gilbert O'Sullivan probably not many remember him but if not listen to Alone again naturally it's a song to appreciate
My grandfather (on my mom's side) passed on this year on January 22, and we played this at his funeral last week. I may not have had to many memories of him, but the ones I do have I will cherish forever.
I could sing the whole song in my teens. I'm 68 now. Brings back lots of old memories. This was music I studied with. I'm going to sing it at my next class reunion.
This song was the first song I ever became obsessed with, at the tender age of 4 years old. My mother had it on cassette and I warped the ribbon by playing and rewinding the song so many times it snapped. It wasn't until I was a teenager that the irony of that hit me. Folk music is still my favorite genre
And what logical sense would it be to subscribe to a artist that hasn't released a single since 1998..if the world is broken its due to the general stup!dity of America n its public spreading it to the world through news n s0cial media
The logical sense would be to show a real artist respect and support. For the algos to push it more and so more new people can find it in the future, so on and so forth. Wouldn't help if we listened to these songs on this channel so the artist gets paid in the newer ways also. Plenty of logical sense.
On this day; May 26th, 1971....Don McLean recorded his career-defining song "American Pie".....It hit the #1 spot on the USA Billboard Hot 100 in January 1972 & is one of the most successful singles in rock history.
Obviously most of you know that "The Day The Music Died" refers to February 3, 1959, when Buddy Holly, Richie Valens, and JP "the Big Bopper" Richardson tragically died in a plane crash, but there's also various other references to other events as well! 1:30 - The 1957 song "The Book of Love" by the Monotones 1:34 - The 1955 song "The Bible Tells Me So" by Don Cornell 2:00 - The sock hop trend of the 1950s 2:11 - The 1957 song "A White Sport Coat" by Marty Robbins 2:57 - The Jester refers toBob Dylan 2:58 - The King and Queen refer to Pete Seeger and Joan Baez, who were often dubbed the king and queen of folk music 3:11 - In this section, the King is referring to Elvis Presley after Bob Dylan practically dethroned him as the biggest musician of the time 3:24 - While this video has it written as "Lennin", the song's official lyrics are spelt as "Lennon" and refer to John Lennon's growing interest in left wing politics in 1969 3:27 - The Quartet refers to the Beatles' performance at Shea Stadium in 1965 4:01 - "Helter Skelter in a summer swelter" refer to the Tate-LaBianca murders which took place in the summer of 1969 4:03 - These few lines refer to the band, The Byrds, whose lead singer, Gene Clark checked into a rehab facility, often called a "fallout shelter" 4:08 - The 1966 song "Eight Miles High" by the Byrds 4:21 - With the Jester still refering to Bob Dylan, Dylan in 1966 had gotten into a serious motorcycle accident which had him step away from the music industry to recover 4:30 - The 1967 album "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band" by the Beatles 5:21 - The 1965 song "mMy g
I've always thought this song was amazing, but recently it has taken a new meaning for me. A friend of mine recently died, and the last memory I have of him was when he and a couple friends were singing this song together. This song means so much, as you can clearly see from this comments section, as it has helped myself and others remember. You're a genius, Don McLean.
To the generations to come, never let this song die.
YES SIR CAM❗❗❗❗❗❗
July 2024 /Still Rockingg.
on it
Got it
ok sir
One of the greatest songs ever performed. Made the tears run. Glad I'm 65 and grew up in the best music time in history. God bless to all of you.
About to turn 62....Didn't really understand exactly what this was about but I always loved the song. Lost innocence
I was just thinking that when I die, I will be leaving in the company of other people of my time, this time. The time of the greatest music. We will have a lot to share, so it will be nice.
Amen to that!!
About the day Buddy Holly died, actually.
Don't forget Richie Valens and the Big Bopper too
On February 3rd 2024 it has been 65 years since that tragic day we LOST BUDDY HOLLY, Ritchie Valens and The Big Bopper. Yet their music still Rocks to this very DAY! Thank You Don McLean for this awesome Tribute to the entire Rock & Roll Industry. Rock On!
they would probably have died now anyway.
@@finallife87maybe but it’s totally possible they could still be alive considering Donna (Ritchie’s gf) is still alive
oooo wee oooo i look just like buddy holly
sorry weezer fan
@@finallife87 True, though the tragedy is that were taken from us in their prime. Buddy Holly was only 22 when the crash happened. Who knows what he would've been able to do if he had more time.
Still one of my all-time favorites! 🖤
May the music never die. May we all sing together in harmony.
amen and amen!
YES! My grandads favourites. Can't believe half my music taste Is game music and the other half my grandads playlist lmao. This song is a banger >:)
@@noobfailgaming5703 dirges in the dark!
Dude the point of the song is that the music is dead. The culture of the United States is nearly gone.
@@michaelseiber1794 why did you ruin the nostalgia for me 😭😭😭 I knew it had a sad outlining but you didn't need to ruin my childhood
A 67 years old dog from Thailand was and still listenning to this song.A thousand thanks and loves!
r u still alive?
@yeshua6857 Dude it's only been 3 months
@@John-wf5dm lmao
Hell yeah I hope the best for you, keep your voice in good shape!
Do you own a bar on the beach in Koh Tao by chance?
子供の頃から聴いてるけど、本当に色褪せない名曲だと思う
Top 💯
P😊😊p😊😊p😊😊pp😊😊p😊p😊😊😊]❤😊9l@@luizhonorio9917
La neta que sí, carnal.
Still listening to it in 2025❤
Me
I’m 14 and I have been listening to this forever. This song will never die
50 years here and im 60 years old 🌀
Good taste Samantha!
@@финик-с6ч no doubt 👍
The first time I listened to this I was also 14.
Same, be raised on this song. It's my brother's favorite, and he loved to play it and explain every little detail about each verse.
This song seems to hold a special place for many people... and rightly so...
So for everyone:
May the road rise up to meet you. May the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face; the rains fall soft upon your fields and until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of His hand.
This traditional Irish blessing is an ancient Celtic prayer.
Someone told me that many years ago I've heard that before as a child
@007JHS
I've never heard that until now. But thank you kindly! That is beautiful and I wish the same for you as well. God bless you! 😊
Thank you man. Wishing all luck from Italy.
I'd heard this before and looked for it, but never didn't know where nor what I was really looking for. Thank you very much for bringing this to us. God's blessings be on thee as well.
Some of me English is terrible, but I hope you got my message.
It’s April 28, 2023 and I just heard the President/Prime Minister of South Korea sang this at a official state banquet and diplomatic reception. He did the first verse and I gotta give him credit. He won over everyone in that room. Well done sir. You touched many American hearts. Thank you.
Not Prime Minister. He is President
@@大韓帝國-e3h Thank you for sharing this with us. Have a great weekend!
Great Yoon can make better S.Korea
Truly shows the kids how legendary this song is. put a smile on my face that’s for sure
@@오동재-q1y 위대해서 국제호구라고 놀림을 받냐?
One of the greatest songs ever. I was a young kid when it came out. I’m now 61 and still love hearing it
overrated
@@johnnyringo2695 ofc a guy with the last name "ringo" says that
I'm only 19 and this is my favorite song of all time.
@@johnnyringo2695
Really? Jealous much? That sounds like, a personal problem to me and not a, wise one to have either. Sucks to be you!
@@flickcentergaming680 I'm 14 and I like this song.
My granddaughter came in my room singing this! Sure brought back great memories from my high school days. 50+ yrs difference between us & we both have great taste! ❤
Dang right 👍
The Dream is Real ❤
Perhaps your good taste is genetic!
Its timeless because its about yesterday, and every generation has its yesterday. Its a tragically beautiful life. Live it. Love you all
This song reminds me of our stolen presidential election and I could cry seeing what's been done to America by the Biden crime regime!!
@@michaelmoslak2975 my father passed in 2018 and I often think about how disappointed he was in the decline of America. He never got over it and I often think about him when I listen to The Statler Brothers song " Do you remember these". I am glad he didn't have to endure covid or the insanity of the last couple of years. Let's try to Make America Great Again for my father and all our past generations that gave everything for this country.
You two are smoking some shit 😂
@@michaelmoslak2975you can't be seriously blaming that old **** for everything when before him there was a bunch of garbage in his place.
@@LeoKinhg It's the entire party not just creepy joe.
My father died 40 minutes ago.
My Oldest memory with him was dancing to this song, that was the happiest I remember him being. The smile on his face... In his later life it was very rare that you saw him smile.
Fuck Cancer.
The family met today in my granny's house, and we ended up sharing stories and talking about the kind of support we've gotten from people learning of his death.
I always knew he had friends from every walk of life, but there were people sending their condolences from everywhere, even retail workers in shops he frequented and chemists learned of his death and contacted us. Teachers from educational facilities he hadn't learned at in 25+ years too.
I've been placed in charge of making a playlist of music that he would have liked to play before he's cremated and this song will definitely be on it.
So sad…. I’m so sorry for your loss :/
It must be very hard for you…
Let those memories push you trough tuff moments
Не переживай, все когда- нибудь уйдем. Сожалею о вашей утрате.
so sorry for your loss man, praying for you and your family.
May the Lord bless you and keep you
This was my dad's favorite song. He passed away on July 17, 2022, right after our whole family sang it too him. This is a song that is very precious to our family. 💔😢
Rest in peace 🙏
So sorry for your loss
My dad used to play this on his guitar. He passed in 2018. Well will listen together in memory of our fathers and the great music they taught us.
Sorry for your loss 😢
Sorry for your loss but good choice
My Dad would play this on his guitar when I was a kid. He died in 2023. The song came into my head this morning and here I am listening as tears roll down my face.😢 This song will always remind me of him.
I feel your pain. When my sisters and I lost Dad several years ago it was devastating. The joy of memories can put some grief to rest .
"Did you write the book of love?" - these words are the words of such a pure and beautiful depth in love and gift wrapped in the most poetry! Together with book, we all learn how to love. The love of the book of love is the love of learning how to love everything
Have you ever heard of the country song a thing called love
The Bible is written by people inspired by God.
The songwriters from that period were so talented. In a song that lasts for 8 and a half minutes each and every part of the song rhymes. Today's songwriters simply couldn't achieve such a masterpiece.
I was 20 yrs old when this became popular, immediately I was caught in by its nostalgic and haunting lyrics because I knew the meaning was tied to the tragic loss of 3 young artists and rock and roll. I'm 72 now, and I thank God for having been part of the best years, best poets and best music ,my body's old but I'm still young inside 😮.
Your saying this era was better at song writing than Cardi B??? Your wild… haha
I had just entered the Air Force when this song was popular. It kept me sane through the whole experience.
Can you tell me what the heck he’s trying to say? I know about the plane crash and that explains only the first verse, but what other kind of real-world events are being alluded to in this coherent fantasy yet incoherent allegory? I grew up on this song, hearing it on the oldies station and having almost memorized it by the mid-2000s, but I could never make head or tail of it.
@@albertnortononymous9020He's talking about the 50s and 60s dying. The end of an innocent era. Not just Buddy Holly...he brings up the Manson murders of Sharon Tate and her friends when he says "Helter Skelter in the Summer swelter". The dying of a more innocent time in history 😢😢
damn gramps, didn't know you we're chill like that
I met Buddy Holly in 1958. He was a fun person to hang out with for a while. Buddy enjoyed every minute of life. Today, I'm 75 and a writer. Thanks Buddy for inspiration you can do anything life! R.I.P. . . .😇
Wow, you were present for such an iconic slice of time. If you ever decide to write a memoir, count me as one of your readers 😁🙌
Great story
I’d also love to read it if you write a memoir
Please tell us in the comments if that ever happens
So you met him and hung out in 1958 for a while, when you were 10 years old. I'll take things that never happened for $2,000 Alex.
So you were only nine or ten years old? How come you “hung out” with him?
The lyrics are everything. It's the history of rock and roll without using the names. The King was Elvis, the players on the grass were the Beatles at Shea Stadium, their last concert, moss on a rolling stone refers to Dylan taking over the scene, and on and on. Maybe THE greatest song ever written. Pure genius.
The king in the song is Jesus 😂😂
Orrrrr it's about Buddy Holly Ritchie Valenz n The Big Bopper J P Richardson.....
the only thing elvis was king of was drugs, he was terrible
@@TsDomain do you think a song just about those three would be considered one of the greatest of all time? They are just the symbols; do some research
@mikegilbert2500 they are just symbols of.... "The Day The Music Died"....
This has been one of my favorites songs since I first heard it. I saw Don McLean live at my college campus in the mid-seventies and he obliged all of us by performing it. What a thrill!!
Wow I bet that was so cool! I am from England unfortunately lol I would have loved to have been born in America I will swop you 😅
3:05 hi k
Congratulations 🎶🥁👁️🗨️🎼
I'm a 35 year old bartender at a karaoke bar in Porto Alegre-Brazil.
I think last December a group of North Americans were staying in a hotel next to the bar and decided to go sing one night. One of them started singing this song which brought me a wonderful nostalgic feeling as I used to hear this song from time to time in my childhood and given a while later I never heard it again and didn't know the name and artist. I used shazam that night and I never missed this song again, and now every time I listen to it I have a smile and a tear on my face as I remember my childhood.
The guy who sang it doesn't know my name, and I don't know his, but on that magical night, we did each other really well (he with the music, me with the cocktails). Thanks for that, friend!
que experiência linda! fico feliz que o destino tenha trazido essa música de volta aos seus ouvidos
Porto Alegre, lar de uma das três melhores bandas de Rock Nacional na minha opinião e acho que na de muita gente também, talvez até na sua né
cool and i agree
Bacana Nery. Eu tambem procuro uma musica que tocava em um comercial da MTV Brasil que começava assim "I used to love every night as religion"... Nunca encontrei a musica e sinto uma frustração enorme por isso. Acho que essa musica deve ter sido feita somente para o comercial, é a unica explicação que encontro :(
I wish I were there. Never been to Brazil.... Would love to go.
I can't even express how good this song is. This song is one of the most American things I have ever listened to! Somber and nostalgic, but also with an undercurrent of happiness in some parts, it just takes you through the decades. It is one of those rare songs that manages to capture the feel of an entire generation of America. It is a song that perfectly embodies of looking back on your youth, on the happy moments that you can nver recapture, but which made you, and which you will cherish forever. And you look back on it with the sobering perspective on adulthood, at how times have changed, and how you can never recapture the simple innocence of your younger years. I really feel that this whole song is a metaphor for the loss of innocence and youth that an entire generation of America experienced in the '60's. But this song can also resonate with virtually everyone at everytime, making it truly universal. Plus, it's impossible not to sing along to! Thank you Don McLean, thank you for making one of the best songs of all time!
could have not say it better
A beautiful commentary commensurate with the quality and importance of the song. Thank you for expressing it.
My GrandMother died today February 3rd 2025. This was one of her favorite songs. RIP grandma, I love you and will miss you.
hey she made it too 2025 thats pretty good if you ask me, also im sorry for you loss
I'm so sorry for your loss. You and your family are in our prayers.
RIP.
My condolences to your family. Grandmas are important to our memories. May God bless her.
I'm sorry for your loss
My 60 year old daughter's funeral was two days ago. She was special. She had planned every segment of her 'Celebration of Life'. The funeral home could not seat everyone as people just kept coming in. She had been fighting cancer for eight years and she never gave up. Her faith and her positive attitude kept her going. But her body finally ran out of steam. The last song she requested and asked people to join in was American Pie. Everyone, including this 86 year old Mom sang. There was not a dry eye in the place. I told you she was special.
Very moving about your brave daughter...tears in my eyes. I don't think the repeated line, "the day the music died" totally applies to her though. It's clear the music in your heart for your daughter is still very alive and will always play❤. Take good care.
Thank you so much. You read me right. @@gmtgsong4635
sorry for your loss that is sad im 10 and this is making me cry.❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
@@gmtgsong4635 h
she must have been really cool... ngl,this made me almost tear up. may she rest in peace
This song is longer than 8 minutes but you're not bored listening and that makes this song amazing.
Buddy Holly was a Legend
Had he lived a long life he would Elvis Presley wouldn't of been the King.
The song almost didn't get released because of the 8 minute length. The suits didn't think it would do well.
It's a tour de force masterpiece!
Who cares if 3 minutes or 8 minutes it's banging still
Back in the 70s when radio had late night disc jockeys, this 8 minute song was played when they needed a bathroom break. 😂
My dad used to play this on record for me when I was a little kid. Sadly he dad passed away 2 years ago and for some stupid reason we didn't have contact the last few years. I was there by his side at the end, but never got a chance to tell him how much he really meant to me and how sorry I was for not keeping in touch. Love you dad.
He’ll know without you having to tell him, comes from the heart. And he’ll never be more than a thought away ❤
If you were there, he already knew. I lost my dad 8 years ago. It feels like an eternity has passed since then, but I know I will see him again and he will be cancer-free once again.
Man your Dad loves you!!!❤
I'm so sorry to hear that. It truly breaks my heart. Forgiveness is essential in our lives, for our time here on earth is short. That's why I believe in Christ, cause I want to live in eternity. God bless you and know you will always have the good memories you shared with your father.
sending you love & your dad knows everything that might've gone unsaid❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
Watching my home town burn, crying listening to this, LA, California 1/11/25
I’m sorry
Terrible situation which could have been minimized or prevented. After crying, be a part of a dramatic change in government leadership. Just like this this classic, memories will last but Rock and Roll lives with new leadership. 74 year old former musician and veteran.
So sorry 💔❤️🩹 Hope you and your family are safe. Sending light and love from the Philippines 🇵🇭
I'm so very sorry. All of Western North Carolina is sending y'all love and strength.
I have many relatives in CA.....sending prayers wishes and love to the entire state
My dad died yesterday and this was one of his favorite songs. He had the 45 record and I have early childhood memories of him playing this record on the stero. RIP Daddy. ❤
Take Care, my condolences
❤
👍🤣
Take care....my condolences. May your father rest in peace.
R.i.p too all good dad's that had passed 😢😢
This is easily one of the greatest songs ever written, if not the greatest. The way Don tells stories through each lyric is still impressive, despite the song being 50 years old. True masterpiece.
Perhaps the GOAT, really. It tests the human limits of talent and creativity.
@@guilhermehomsy674 I totally agree.
the metaphors are crazy
It’s definitely up there.
Ah, because you know and understand all the songs since the beginning of time, in all languages?
" one of the greatest songs ever written, if not the greatest " LOL
I grew up listening to this song and am now in college. In my eyes, this song is the hegemony of all American music of the past 70 years. It has a certain character that makes you think about the lyrics and wrestle with its message. It speaks of America and its turbulent past. The song has the same turbulence and dies out, but the last encore of the chorus swells in emotion giving hope for a future that can give us one more verse and another. The song and America goes on. Thank you Don for such a great song! Happy Thanksgiving y’all! Enjoy yourself some pie and this American Pie today!
Im still trying to decide if its about the Vietnam War, the Buddy Valens plane crash, the JFK assassination, the Beetles, The Rolling Stones, or all of the above
@@ficklemoose2741 All of the above
Did you know that this song made such an impression that there were at least 2 "reply" songs made about it?
Roberta Flacks "Killing me softly (with his song)"..later remade by the Fugees.
Gene Cotton...Sunshine Roses.
It can go on alright but I hope it goes on better than it has been so far this century.
Apparently it took 3 weeks and with crack NY studio session players to get it to sound "like I wanted it to sound".
We're all fortunate.
This song will NEVER get old....
I'm so glad I was a teenager in the 70's, we tried to interpret this song while smoking weed. We came to the conclusion that Don had a dream/vision that was telling us not to forget music/humanity. Music is the one thing besides your faith that no one can take from you. Thanks Don - some good old lyrics and story-telling genius. Everyone knows the chorus! Your music will never die. Bless you.
actually it is about Buddy Holly and how he and a few other musicians died in a plane crash.
@@markpullman785 Thanks, I didn't identify the song to Buddy Holly. He is a legend!
@@jennifercontoplianos3615 You're welcome
@@markpullman785 everyone percieves music different. I percieve it as a tribute to buddy,richie, the big bopper and society at the time in general.
Not what he was saying but okay
When songs first come out, you don't realize they are timeless classics. I was a kid when this came out and really liked it but didn't really appreciate the genius behind it
The first song I learned to sing in English at 5 years old. The first song I learned to play on the guitar. The song of my life. Timeless, this gives me goosebumps and this feeling for a decade I wish I have lived in.
👍
A monumental classic for sure!!Glad you love it too! God bless you.
I remember hearing American Pie for the first time in December 1971 on the old KIMN AM in Denver CO riding around in my moms brand new 72 Gran Torino. I was 13 years old.
It continued to get frequent airplay well into 1972 (although a cut-down version rather than the 8 minute plus long version), I didn't even know there was a long version for several years after it was released.
Fifty years on, I still occasionally hear it on an oldies station, its in the top 5 of my favorite pop/rock songs of all time.
I often wish there was a song like this that told the story of pop music and the culture that went along with it in the decades since, (other than Billy Joels "We didn't start the Fire")
They dont write them like that anymore (to borrow the lyrics from an 80s song)....and likely never will.
Plot twist she is Natasha Romanoff little sister
Classic
Alwaysvspecial memories of this amazing singer. Keep singing everybody. Love from Scotland x
계속 듣고 있어요 뭔가 뭉클한 그런 감성이 있네요
Are a fan too of Don McLean too dear??
Thanks to Google Translate I understand this comment. :) Glad you like it!
This was my dad's favorite song, he passed march 2023. Rest In Peace, daddy i miss you so much and nothing will ever be the same.
So sorry for your loss ❤
Lost my mum 3 weeks ago and for some random reason here I am watching this and reading your comment tearing up with a shared bond of sadness with someone I will never know. For all its ills the internet is also wonderful.
My condolences
I lost my dad too long ago...sorry for your loss of your daddy too...God bless. And God bless rock and roll and music. God speed and RIP our generation now the flight ✈️ 🙏 with all the Figure skaters!! 😢 love and hugs to you for your dad and love and peace of Christ to all ❤ xoxo
A World without music is like a World without any Good reason to exist. This Lyrical Video is a Perfect Representation of a Truly Classic Song.
underrated quote
@SkylarYuedafish thank you so much for understanding the importance of that quote.
I agree it's taken the presentation of lyrics to a high level
I totally agree w you.
🙏🙏🙏🫶🫶🫶🫶💯💯💯
Im not american, but damn, the feels on this song keep on hitting. Making me remember memories ive never had, drinking beer in an old timey bar with a group of friends wearing cowboy hats singing, dancing, having fun
This song is about how the music industry literally changed overnight on Feb 3 1959. Gone are the days of singing about happiness and love. Now is death, killing, sin, drugs and debauchery. We are the angels born in hell unable to break satans spell.
America is a continent, not a country
Something touches me deep inside every time I hear this. “A Classic 70’s song” Dancing in the gym, I was in seventh grade, basketball games in the gym. Just the best times ever. RIP to the good old days.
Did this something that touched you deep inside happen on the day the music died?
Hehehe, for years, I thought the lyric was "Dancing Nin to Chin" hehehe
I remember I was 12 the 1st time I heard this. I told my mom, "I don't understand this song, but I want to." So my precious mother, who 20 years later took her first computer class, went to the library. There she and the librarian found the lyrics, and (remember this), mimiographed those lyrics. Then she went to the record store and bought the 45f American Pie for me. (If you ask your kids what a 45 is, they will probably say, much like mine, "Uh, is it a gun?") I listened to that 45 and read those lyrics over and over again until one day it clicked for me. I understood what Donem McClain was trying to impress on my young mind. American Pie wasn't just a rock anthem, it became MY anthem.God bless us, the children of the 70s!
When I was a little baby, my mom used to sing this song to me because she didn’t know any lullabies but she knew this by heart. Then I see this gets posted and it brings a tear to my eye every time.
What a sweet memory. You had a lovely mother
I do.
@@lizardgaming6597 you are very blessed to have her!
overrated
I know this song when I was 14, my tenant played this song and 'Beautiful Sunday' when his presence. It's almost 50 years. Right now, most of Hong Kongers, who are fond of music from the US, have no longer lived in HK
There is no top-40 or popular song like this. This is a thoughtful 8 minute anthology that fondly captures the events and the feelings of "our" age for a couple of decades.
"I was a lonely teenage Broncin buck, with a pink carnation and a pick-up truck"
Always loved that line
I woke up this morning with that part of this song zipping thru my head. I had to listen to it!
this line struck me too. just gorgeous
"And a 'pick me up' truck
The bit at the end where the music breaks down and then builds again brings tears to my eyes every time. Only music can inspire emotion like that and this has to be the greatest song ever written by a man writing a song about people that inspired him. It's just beautiful and i will never not love it
And, incredible it should have served as a warning for the future of our country! 😥
At 22 yrs old in 2024 i hope this song is not only played, but is admired as deeply as i and many others admire it today. This song is timeless. The celebratory sorrow of a tale of saddness anyone can relate to is unbeatable. I still recall singing this with my grandparents before understanding it and realizing the meaning these words would possess someday. Music is the most universal, easiest understood form of communication. From individual to societal, music can deliver a message otherwise too vague, and too broad.
Yes still. Thank you you young man. I shared this song with my children now 44, 42 and almost 34. They know all the Lyrics and it is a stand up song because when it starts people stand up and start singing ❤
💖🎶🎶🎶🎶💖
This is poetry, I had a really had drinking problem for a while and my dad slowly lost his love for me. I’m good now and our relationship is golden, I read this comment and immediately called my dad and said this comment to him. Despite my awful drinking and the way he saw me in those days, we always have connected through music. For a while music was the only way I could communicate my feelings to my dad
I'm 71 years old, and this song still resonates with me just like it did in 71. I hope it's not prophetic.
I just turned 70@@FTONY-sl8mq
Classic Rock &Roll lives forever 👍❤️
When I was a little kid, my Dad would play this for me countless times because he knew how much I loved this song.
So when he passed away, after a three year battle of A.L.S.😢
I wrote a parody of this song as a tribute to my late father.
VERSE 1
Long long time ago,
I can still remember how his music used to make us smile.
A 1959 born man,
thought he had a long lifespan,
and we could all be together for a while.
But 2016 made us shiver, for his right leg began to quiver,
it got worse with each step, he couldn’t take one more step.
He wrote software he could upload, used computers, and advanced codes,
and now sun’s set on his road, we call it his ORANGE ASPHALT.
Oh my my Stephen was a smart guy,
he has been here, for 60 years, now he says his good-byes,
he’s in Heaven, that’s where today he resides,
saying one day you’ll be by my side, one day you’ll be by my side.
VERSE 2
Did you know he met a girl,
at university where his life unfurled, for she you see was his future love.
Their relationship began as friends of course,
despite flaws love’s a greater force,
and yes they were both blessed by the lord above.
Oh
he purposed and became engaged, and their requested marriage was arranged,
they were the best of husbands and wives, it was the best day of their lives.
They had 3 great kids who they both adore, and one married a man of Canadian lore,
but sadly the great wedding wasn’t before our man Stephen’s ORANGE ASPHALT.
I started singing
My my Stephen was smart guy,
he has been here, for 60 years, now he says his good-byes,
he’s in Heaven, that’s where today he resides’
saying one day you’ll be by my side, one day you’ll be by my side.
VERSE 3
Now for decades music was a loved thing, he cherished with his beloved siblings, and wow what a very merry group they were.
Yes
their loving parents were so filled with joy, they were deeply proud of their girls and their boys, it was an extraordinary concert yes sir.
Well
he passed his great love for the art, to his 3 kids he loved with all his heart, he entertained them with his gift, and their spirits he did lift.
Yeah
on his great guitar he was indeed a bliss, and he truly was a musical artist,
his musical hands will sorely be missed, oh yes after his ORANGE ASPHALT.
We started singing
My my Stephen was a smart guy,
he has been here for 60 years, now he says his good-byes,
he’s in Heaven, that’s where today he resides’
saying one day you’ll be by my side, one day you’ll be by my side.
VERSE 4
Destination visitation anticipation for vacation, he loved one spot in this whole nation.
Yes up in York Maine was a sensation, at his vast family’s cabin’s location, his thing was nature hiking exploration.
Oh
Bar Harbor, and Jordon Pond, and Mount Cadillac, Black woods and beyond, on the island he loved it all, Mount Desert Island it is called.
Yes
Steve loved the state of Maine the very best, yes his favorite in the hemisphere of the west,
Maine mourns the loss of one of it’s guests, oh yes after Steve’s ORANGE ASPHALT
Maine started singing
My my Stephen was a smart guy,
he has been here for 60 years, now he says his good-byes,
he’s in Heaven, that’s where today he resides,
saying one day you’ll be by my side, one day you’ll be by my side.
VERSE 5
Oh this song’s title I’ll explain what that is, it’s long story but it goes something like this, it all started with a video game.
It has a
total of 30 levels it’s true, and we advanced to the level 22, and yes orange asphalt is that level’s given name.
Because
you control a motorcycle, on a sunset lit road for a while, Stephen took that level to heart, I guess that was his favorite part.
Because
ever since then he asked from morning to 9, may I name this after, favorite level of mine,
we will treasure late Steve’s famous line, “Can I call this ORANGE ASPHALT?”.
He’s probably singing
My my Stephen was a smart guy,
he has been here for 60 years, now he says his good-byes,
he’s in Heaven, that’s where today he resides,
saying one day you’ll be by my side, one day you’ll be by my side.
VERSE 6
We already missed Stephen yes, when he had been cursed with A.L.S., we miss the man he used to be.
We took the task to help our man, in any possible way we can, the bad illness proceeded unfortunately.
On July 10 2019, his fate we feared had been seen, and zero words were spoken, the hearts of us were broken.
And the level Steve admired best, I took to my heart cross my chest,
I named the song you know the rest, Steve may call it ORANGE ASPHALT.
And I was singing….
My my Stephen was a smart guy,
he has been here for 60 years, now he says his good-byes,
he’s in Heaven, that’s where today he resides,
saying one day you’ll be by my side, one day you’ll be by my side.
FINALE
We were singing….
My my Stephen was a smart guy,
he has been here for 60 years, now he says his good-byes,
he’s in Heaven, that’s where today he resides,
saying one you’ll be by my side.
This is a beautiful tribute to your father, he would have been so proud.
It's only been 3 years, I'm real sorry for your loss.
@@Tsch6373 Thank you for your condolences.
That's a lovely tribute to your dad. He is looking down on you, very proud and guiding you always from heaven.
@@LindaPerry_337 😊❤️
I'm so sorry, this song is wonderful god bless u
This is still a popular song in 2023, including college bars. I can’t believe a song this long has continued to be so popular. An absolute banger!
SOme songs are just so dang good that they should never end...American Pie is one of them.
Ever since 1969, the Fraternal Odor of Politics 😮& CIGAR Smoke 😢
Has been stinky & in need of Housing. DAMN the Feminist Manifestos of Middle Eastern Hoochi Mamma Dancers.❤❤❤
It's because, besides having a great tune, this song is packed full of Americana, of nostalgia about the times when we didn't let divisive progressive ideologies into our lives, when everyone just lived their lives and let others live theirs.
to me a 16 year old in highschool when im feeling down
This somg is one of the greatest of all time.
how can I feel so much nostalgia for something that I've never listened to before.
❤️
Bc it isnt that it brings you back for it but the feeling of your childhood past
The power of good music
Same!
🎉😂OMG it’s a tune 👌😂🎉❤👌It’s packed with memories this one it’s GOLD ⭐️Top notch nostalgia filled 🎉🎉🎉🥃⭐️Cheers 👍
Has so many emotions poured into it, sweet nostalgia, anger, joy, sadness
One of the key tracks of my childhood & beyond. The ultimate "loss of innocence" song. Thanks for the glorious, moving illustrations! ✌️♥️🎶
Still my favorite tracks also.. where you from?
Not everybody knows this but this entire song is quite literally a tribute to Buddy Holly and a message to tell the world how rock and roll changed since his death this whole song was written in a bar and it is probably the best piece of music composed in a very long time
Adding to the tribute, the album was written to be dedicated to Buddy Holly
I'm 44 and know exactly what this song is about!
@@susanwagner900 I would love to hear from you. Where can I contact you?
Disclaimer: this is a theory.
The song is about Buddy but its about much more then just that. Its also him telling his life of being a paperboy thinking dreaming one day becoming a performer, on up to a high school let down over a girl he had an eye out for. How music along with past events and war changed America. England invasion of music became so popular it overcame even the crown. The falling away from god from the new music misleading a nation away from pure values to do as they pleased and what felt good. Jack on the candle stick is America waking up from its demonic trance ways, maybe when its to late. It close to being prophetic looking at things in today's world.
0:54 never gets old
One of the greatest Rock n Roll tunes ever written.
A 4ever classic. ❤
Amen to that!! Brother… USA #1 🙏
Saw him at university of Missiuri Harnia Hall with my now exwife and Nancy Leuters Jablonski who was our best friend
I’ve been hearing this song my whole life. Todays the first time listening from front to back. What a masterpiece
Thank UA-cam for that... Steve Chen, Chad Hurley, and Jawed Karim... en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UA-cam
ME TOO and i'm so glad i did. my parents had my 2 sisters and I in the back of their honda odyssey playing motown, beach boys, 60's and 70's classics and i'm so glad the internet has allowed me to revisit this now at 27 years old. love them so much always and forever
Our oldest son was 5 years old when this was number one and played on the radio all the time. We were in the car and this song came on the radio and my 5-year-old was singing along and I'll never forget him singing, "good ole boys drinking whisky and rye, saying this'll be the day I die. This'll be the day that I die." His head was held high and back and just singing with all his might. I can see it just as clear as I did that summer day in 1973. It's a memory I will always cherish.
This is my ERA.these we're the good ole days.i am still listening 😊I sure miss it. Good classics❤
Don McClean is a magnificent storyteller.
"McClean", really? 😂
Brush it's Don McLean 😅😅😂😂
Sorry it's bruh not brush
The best!
My little brother was killed 30 years ago today, Aug 14,1993. He sang this song solo karaoke at a big family reunion just a few weeks before that. It had always been one of my favorite songs, but it definitely hit even harder ever since. Love you and miss you Josh! Bye bye 'til I see you again!
Sorry for your loss
Sorry Man. I hope you’ll reunite with him one day.
I'm so sorry for your loss. I lost my brother a few months ago 💔
I’m sorry for your loss
I was both this day, 63 years ago. Every year I play a little Buddy, a little Ritchie ... and American Pie. Thank you for the music, Don.
i’m listening to this song on repeat till the ball drops
What a beautiful piece of music! Hats off to Don McLean!
yes and Buddy Holly
Someone give him 69 likes
This track was written about a an aeroplane crash in the 60s I think that none other Mr Elvis avoided! Orchestrated by white so called right wing conservative Christian extremists, a life is a life!!!!!!!!!!
overrated
Ah that much is true! Mr McLean's track was definitely not overrated at all.
I guess it goes on & on, that what Good Visionary and meaningful Music can do as Time goes by etc? That's what it does, it never dies!!!!!!!
Yet it is also very true many have fallen by the wayside hence, for quite simply expressing their Music, ideas or feelings, which was not acceptable to some who made them pay the ultimate sacrifice. 'Premeditive' and left little evidence except for the sensitive ones in the know of course, I guess also that's why they get away with it, I hope it doesn't keep happening?
At seventy years of age, I still cry and remember when the music died in my life. Dear children, please hold on to everything you can, and remember this moment always
❤
my grandfather died yesterday. he used to sing this song and he knew every word. i can’t listen to don mclean without thinking about him. i miss him so much but i know that he’s singing in heaven right now. rip papo love you ♥️🎵🙏
Hug
Remembering this song and honoring the loss of talent on Feb 3.
The bluesyness of that piano chord at 7:01 is such a nice touch.
여기 오신 한국인 여러분...Don McLean의 다른 노래 Vincent도 들어보세요.. 빈센트 반고호 노래에요. 다들 한번씩은 들어보셧을 거에요. 스테리 스테리 나이트로 시작되는..그리고 영상 감사합니다.
When I was a junior in high school I was apart of the A.V. club and actually made a music video to your song because it is one of my all time favorites. And realize this was in 2003. You have touched every generation. This is a true classic. It will never die
This hits different Fall 2024.
WOW, WOW, WOW!!! This is my favourite song of all times. Finally it also has an amazing video.
Mr. McLean, you are one of the greatest song writers of the XXth century!
Salutes from Italy.
OMG!!! I always wanted one of these for American Pie! Thank you Don McLean, you’re the best singer ever ❤️
Yup and a good tribute song to the three legends
The father son and holy ghost
❤💚
Only 64 plus. Damn good song. Satan go eff utself
Classic!
From now on, every time I see a Korean I will ask for an American Pie live show! Well done!
I wish we could have this respect for the art of songwriting again. It was so organic and free. And man, I sure wish I owned that guitar he's playing today
I do and it is slightly overrated as the song is. Dont get me wrong, i love the song too, but what ppl think and interprete in this song is kinda funny.... Just for the record... i am born 62.
Ive been jamming to this song since '72, glad to see a lot of younger people liking this song
i'm 27 and i love it. i hope to see the new tiktok generation keep it alive, too
I'm 13, and I love this song. I'm forver grateful to my dad for introducing me to it.
I’m 15 and I love it
For all the younger folks, it would be great to have a list of events that this song references to better understand just how great this song is.
Polyphonic did exactly that in one of his videos
It's the day the music died the day of the plane crash and lost good singers like The Big Bopper
Right there with freebird
overrated
Im pretty sure there are references to Bob Dylan Rolling Stone song, The verse with hands were clenched in fists of rage has to do with the Rolling stones concert at Altamont.. they hired the Hells Angels as security and if I remember right there were murders by “security” there. Then riots. With the fires.. Lennon read a book of Marx.. not Lenin.. John Lennon. A verse about the sergeants was Sgt Peppers lonely hearts band.. etc. Anyway.. great sing. Rock was changed after Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens and the Big Bopper died. In the song anyway..
There are some rock 'n roll, pop, rock songs that stand the test of time, that no-one can match the original with a cover, despite valiant attempts and which represent a perfection... This is one of them.
This will always be one of those songs...❤
This song gives me good memories of waking up to go for a walk with my grandmother and her listening to this
This song is extremely and deeply touching. These are such simple words, but they carry so many meanings. A true poetry that I will never get tired of hearing! Wonderful!
My dad told me a story about Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens and the Big Bopper when I was young. I didn't really believe him as I couldn't believe there was someone named the Big Bopper. Years later, watching the movie La Bamba, I understood it finally and the great loss that happened on that plane. This song reminds me of both of these moments
Hello Chris
I was 11 years old when this came out. I was amazed by the lyrics and drawn to every word. Thank you Don for an anthem for us 60’s and 70’s kids.
How old are you now?
@@fajita6381 If 11 in 1971 then 63 approx is a good guess.
Who’s singing these ingrained classic lyrics along with me in 2025 🤗
It's June 3, 2023 and this wonderful song. Is still a big hit and I'm happy! I was 11 years old when it came out. Now I'm 62 and it still resonates with me. As much as it did back then. Thank you Don McLean and thank you to whoever made this video! You did a great job!
😊 🥧 ❤ 🥳 🎶 🎉🥰 🎼 👄🎵
this is a beautiful comment thank you for sharing i’m a 14 year old and this is my absolute favorite song it has such a powerful timeless message
@@444_aidan
Thank you Aiden! That's so kind of you to say. 😊
This lyric video is utterly beautifully done. The differing use of fonts and imagery for each verse helps to add to the meaning(s) behind this epic narrative song. It is truly one of the greatest songs of the 20th century and the meanings of it are literally being debated constantly (even though Don McLean broke his silence over the meaning in 2022); this video continues to add to that discussion!
I lost my wife on 13th August 2021. This song makes me flood with tears every time I hear it. I love her so.
overrated
Sorry for your loss.
L
@@maryeunicesupremacy582 I bet you felt good saying that
“peace be with you”…
On this day 1959....keep rock n roll alive!
Dude "the day the music died" has to be one of the saddest possible sentences
Music was never alive. People making music are alive when you listen to music you are alive but music has never been alive
@@juanmanumanudice8848
It must be difficult always taking things literally
Aint easy these days to not be a depressive bug like you.
@@juanmanumanudice8848 r/Iamverybadass
@@HopePapernackyit’s the best way to look at things
I've loved this song for years,it's so emotional and actually quite breathtaking! His choice of lyrics,music and absolute emotion he put into this song is outstanding!
Ahh yes the #1 greatest and meaningful song of all time (in my own opinion) was here. A piece of track with great storytelling and lyrical performance especially to the "the day the music died" part reminds me of how music changed through the years. Thank you Mr. Don McLean and your American Pie which a half-century old now. - from 🇵🇭
In my opinion too
Yup
Hello my fellow filipino brother. its rare to see filipino now adays listening to this kind of song.
Don was awesome underated in my opinion , The UK also had a version of Don , he was called Gilbert O'Sullivan probably not many remember him but if not listen to Alone again naturally it's a song to appreciate
That’s not what the lyric means.
They don't compose classics like these anymore 😢
My grandfather (on my mom's side) passed on this year on January 22, and we played this at his funeral last week.
I may not have had to many memories of him, but the ones I do have I will cherish forever.
I'm sorry for your loss
I am sorry for your loss
I could sing the whole song in my teens. I'm 68 now. Brings back lots of old memories. This was music I studied with. I'm going to sing it at my next class reunion.
please do it, i'm 27! keep this jam alive. we love you ❤
I'm 18 studying with this song. History repeats itself with such beauty
@subramax im 11, please bring this song back!!
This song was the first song I ever became obsessed with, at the tender age of 4 years old. My mother had it on cassette and I warped the ribbon by playing and rewinding the song so many times it snapped. It wasn't until I was a teenager that the irony of that hit me. Folk music is still my favorite genre
THIS SONG NEVER GETS OLD. BEEN LISTENING TO IT SINCE 2005. STILL FRESH.
You know the world is a bit broken when this legend has less than 200k followers on here. Respect to a real artist.
And what logical sense would it be to subscribe to a artist that hasn't released a single since 1998..if the world is broken its due to the general stup!dity of America n its public spreading it to the world through news n s0cial media
Totally agree with you, the person posting below you is likely a communist lol.
The logical sense would be to show a real artist respect and support. For the algos to push it more and so more new people can find it in the future, so on and so forth. Wouldn't help if we listened to these songs on this channel so the artist gets paid in the newer ways also. Plenty of logical sense.
@@jadebel7006Newsflash he just released a remixed and remastered Christmas Memories Album, guess you missed that. Derp
@@jadebel7006 Ah yes, because only America is stupid.
Grow tf up.
I'm currently only 22 years old. But I can't wait to play this around my kids. And my grandkids. Lovely song
keep it alive, i'm 27 and my parents played this for me always. if i can ever afford to have children i'll do the same, haha
breeder
On this day; May 26th, 1971....Don McLean recorded his career-defining song "American Pie".....It hit the #1 spot on the USA Billboard Hot 100 in January 1972 & is one of the most successful singles in rock history.
Obviously most of you know that "The Day The Music Died" refers to February 3, 1959, when Buddy Holly, Richie Valens, and JP "the Big Bopper" Richardson tragically died in a plane crash, but there's also various other references to other events as well!
1:30 - The 1957 song "The Book of Love" by the Monotones
1:34 - The 1955 song "The Bible Tells Me So" by Don Cornell
2:00 - The sock hop trend of the 1950s
2:11 - The 1957 song "A White Sport Coat" by Marty Robbins
2:57 - The Jester refers toBob Dylan
2:58 - The King and Queen refer to Pete Seeger and Joan Baez, who were often dubbed the king and queen of folk music
3:11 - In this section, the King is referring to Elvis Presley after Bob Dylan practically dethroned him as the biggest musician of the time
3:24 - While this video has it written as "Lennin", the song's official lyrics are spelt as "Lennon" and refer to John Lennon's growing interest in left wing politics in 1969
3:27 - The Quartet refers to the Beatles' performance at Shea Stadium in 1965
4:01 - "Helter Skelter in a summer swelter" refer to the Tate-LaBianca murders which took place in the summer of 1969
4:03 - These few lines refer to the band, The Byrds, whose lead singer, Gene Clark checked into a rehab facility, often called a "fallout shelter"
4:08 - The 1966 song "Eight Miles High" by the Byrds
4:21 - With the Jester still refering to Bob Dylan, Dylan in 1966 had gotten into a serious motorcycle accident which had him step away from the music industry to recover
4:30 - The 1967 album "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band" by the Beatles
5:21 - The 1965 song "mMy g
I've always thought this song was amazing, but recently it has taken a new meaning for me. A friend of mine recently died, and the last memory I have of him was when he and a couple friends were singing this song together. This song means so much, as you can clearly see from this comments section, as it has helped myself and others remember. You're a genius, Don McLean.
Sorry about your loss may he rest in peace
@@Nizzler2510 F iN tHe chAt!1
no but fr im sorry for your loss and you can still spam F’s if you want
overrated