This video was shot at my High School in Burbank California in 1986. John Burroughs High School. Several of my friends were in this video. Such an amazing time in my life!
Very cool!!!! Love this song, love this video, it's one of my all-time favorites :) Part of it had to have been filmed where there are Joshua Trees present, somewhere in the Mojave Desert. That covers a fairly large area, but I don't recall ever seeing any Joshua Trees in Burbank. You answered my question about who was used in the video, thank you very much!
This was my dad's favorite song, played it at the cemetery after his funeral over 10 years ago. I always use to shed tears when I hear this song. Now it brings a big smile to my face. I love and miss you dad.
@@nietzschesmoustache3585It took a couple years, everyone's mourns in a different way. I know he is not suffering anymore and its about the circle of life, I know it sounds corny but it's true. I also receive little signs now and then, or something I do and it reminds me, oh that's the way dad did it, and I do believe its better to be happy for him than to mourn him. I still pray for him and my mom, and I do believe to keep good, happy thoughts about them. Good luck and I pray for you for strength.
Check this out, about 1/2 hour after replying to you, I made something to eat, looking out the window white feathers were falling down. To me that was a sign, and it also makes me happy knowing that his song brought us together in conversation, and even better if it helps you. Take care my friend !!!
@@richardmartinez9986that is a wonderful question Nietzsche's mustache asked you. Keep your wonderful thoughts alive and keep your strength in God. Semper Fi.
This was years ago, about 10.....I had the pleasure of speaking with Mr. Don Mclean over the phone at one of my jobs due to a business matter. I had no idea it was The Don Mclean. He asked if I knew who he was, I said no and he told me he was the person who wrote American Pie. I was so stunned that I continued the call in a professional manner and to this day I regret not telling him it was one of my most favorite songs in the world. After the call I found out it was indeed him! He was so pleasant and respectful to talk to and that's something I will never forget because alot of people do not treat or talk to you with respect. It will always be a special memory for me!
incase anyone wants to know what this is actualy about........this took me two days to write this ................. I can’t remember if i cried when i read about his widowed bride, but something touched me deep inside. the day the music died. On february 3rd, 1959 a plane went down near clear lake iowa, the passengers on board were rock and roll icons Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and The Big Bopper. At the time, people called this incident the day the music died and many worried it would be the death of rock and roll as a movement. The songs narrator recalls this black day and breaks into the corrus a lament for the innocents lost by that plane crash. So bye bye ms american pie. Drove my chevy to the levee but the levee was dry. Them good old boys were drinking whiskey and rye, singin “this’ll be the day that i die.” the chorus is a nostalgia for the time before Buddy Holly died. A nostalgia of america of the 1950’s. It is ladened with american symbols mentioning cleverlys, rye whiskey and of course miss american pie. The symbol of miss american pie is a call back to idyllic images of woman in the 1950’s with dreams and memories of fresh baked pie and and pin up models. These images plunge us into the second verse bathed in nostalgia for more innocent times. Did you write the book of love and do you have faith in god above? If the bible tells you so. The narrator sings of faith and god as well as dancing to rock and roll at holsome high school dances. Well i know that your in love with him ‘couse i saw you dancing in the gym. You both kicked off your shoes. Man, I did them rhythm and blues. This verse features references to a pair of 1950’s hit songs to the monotones Book of Love and Marty robbins A white sport coat and a pink carnation. And while this image may seem perfect on the surface, its intentions were boyling in beneath. At this time, many americans were disenfranchised by institutional racism and sexism while america as a country had a shifting role in the global stage, musically people were become less conservative too and rock and roll was far from dead. We see that as the next verse jumps us a decade ahead to 1969. Now for ten years we have been on our own and moss grows fat on a rolling stone but, that's not how it used to be. Gone are the simple days of high school dances and the bible, replaced with complex arcatiple figures and power struggles that show the evolution of music over the next decade. When the jester sang for the king and queen in a coat he borrowed from James Dean and a voice that came from you and me. The figure that dominates this verse is the jester which many take to represent bob dylan, on the cover on 1963’s The Freewheelin’ Dylan wears a leather jacket remanisant to james dean in Rebel without a cause. But Dylan was a shift away from Dean, He was a rebel with a cause. As mclain put it, he is sang with a voice of the people. Singing protest songs for the youth and the disenfranchised. In doing so he became the face of american music stealing that crown from The King “Elvis Presley”. Oh and while the king was looking down, the jester came and stole his thorny crown. The courtroom was adjourned. No verdict was returned. This line features biblical allegory to, its a crown of thorns same as the one jesus had worn and it weighs heavy on Dylan. The rest of the verse pan out to 1969 with john lennon getting into left wing politics and rock moving into darker more retrospective territory. And while Lennon Read a Book of Marx, The quartet practiced in the park, and we all sang dirges in the dark. The day the music died. From here we cut back to a nostalgic chorus before diving face first into the seray of the late 1960’s. Helter skelter in a summer swelter, the birds flew off with a fallout shelter,eight miles high and falling fast. Helter skelter is a reference to the manson murders in the 1969 in which charles manson believed the beatles songs contained hidden messages. For some, this was a dark end to a hidden movement that had seemed so promising and optimistic. The rest of the fourth verse deals with that very moment by looking at the way people were trying to push forward music and thought at the this time. It landed foul on the grass. The players tried for a forward pass with the jester on this sidelines in a cast. The jester is yet again dillan who was criticized for electric shift in 1965 and then got in a motorcycle crash a year later. This nearly ended his life taking him out of the music seen for a time. On the sidelines in a cast. Undeterred bands like the beatles drove music forward with albums like sgt pepper's lonely hearts club band and referenced clearly here. Now the halftime air was sweet perfume while sargents played a marching tune. We all got up to dance, oh but we never got the chance. But the sargents aren’t just a reference to the beatles the word carries a double meaning. Militaristic confrontations in the mid 60’s america was knee deep in vietnam war which would last almost another decade and that war revealed a lot about america, changing the country's perception on the world's stage and bringing out tensions on the homefront. At the end of the verse mcclain talks about how buddy holly's plane crash fractured in, his death revealed the grime and dismay beneath the slick surface of 50’s america. Do you recall what was revealed the day the music died? The fifth verse takes us to the incident that inspired american pie the “altamont speedway free festival” two years after the roaring success of WoodStock another free concert was planned on an attempt to recapture that hippie magic. Headlined by the rolling stones, the concert turned out to be a disaster. The massive crowd began to be drunk and disorderly as well as did the Hells Angels who were hired for security. By the time the stones took the stage at sundown, it was chaos and a man named meredith hunter was stabbed to death after pulling a revolver in the crowd. The fifth verse captures all of this in beautifully symbolic language. It references the rolling stones song jumpin jack flash while playing up the biblical imagery that has driven the song. So come on jack be nimble jack be quick, jack flash sat on a candlestick ‘cause fire is the devil's only friend. One of the altercations happened while the stones were playing sympathy for the devil, something that mcclain parallels with his lyrics about satin. And as the flames climbed high into the night to light the sacrificial right, i saw satan laughing with delight the day the music died. The altamont concert could be seen as a living representation of american culture, a kayotic dark end to a decade that kicked with so much optimism. The sixth verse of the song deals with the fall out of this with an upbeat jam to a sad, slow lament. I met a girl who sang the blues and i asked her for some happy news, she just smiled and turned away. The girl who sang the blues could be janis joplin in a reference to the death of rock greats such as jim morrison jimi hendrix that signaled the end of the decade in an eco of the day the music died. The last verse ends on a biblical reference to which some have taken in consideration of MLK, JFK, and RFK. however the father son and holy ghost could also be buddy holly, Ritchie Valens and The Big Bopper. And the three men i admire most, the Father, sun and holy ghost, they caught the last train for the coast. The day the music died. And this brings us to one final nostalgic chorus. It may seem to be a call back for the good ‘ol days of miss american pie, but i don’t necessarily think that's the case. The song acknowledges the idyllic 50’s were an illusion and that illusion came crashing down the day the music died. And while their was conflict and tension as well as lives lost in the 60’s, it was also a decade defined by change and progress and of course some of the greatest music ever made. It was a turning point for american culture that still has impacts today as we sit at another historical crux.
dusty dorknut, thanks for taking the time to share this. I have an old newspaper clip somewhere in my memorabilia boxes that endeavors to unravel the mystery of this amazing song. One of the greatest songs of all times...I wonder, why has Don McLean left us speculating?
I think you thought about this, and you are probably pretty spot on . Kind of like american graffiti, taking place in 1962 , thaking place right before the Beatles hit new york, just before Vietnam, the movie is about the end of era, not a day in the life . It is followed up by the movie more american graffiti that takes place in 1967. 5 years later
Back in the early 80's I remember an interview with him about the lyrics and here is some of what I remember he said: The part about no verdict was returned was about the Kennedy assassination and there wasn't a verdict because Oswald was killed. "The Byrds flew off to the fall out shelter" is a reference to one of the Byrds band members being arrested for drugs and went to rehab for it, fallout shelter is another meaning back then for rehab. Eight miles high and falling fast is referencing- "Eight Miles High" was the first ever psychedelic song by the Byrds and they were on LSD or something when they did it; and the falling fast was them "falling" or abandoning folk-rock for country music with the album "Sweetheart of the Rodeo," in 1967. Falling on the foul grass was another reference to Marijuana. I also remember him saying the end of the song about "what did it reveal" had something to do with all the freedom protests failed and the govt is corrupt in the end.
I was a 15 year old working at the Illinois State Fair back in 71. Worked at the grandstand hawking soda's at the days horse races, tractor pulls etc. At night they had concerts and Don McLean performed there one evening. I always remembered this song from that night, felt there was something magical about it. And here I'am now 67 in 2024 still listening to him, some songs just stand the test of time.
When Buddy Holly died, I was about nine years old. I knew who he was and understood that someone special had been killed. But only because my sister was nine years older than me. So, through her, I understood it was a big deal. Let's move from my youth to early adulthood. I was still a Buddy Holly fan. When this song came out, I was about 21, maybe 22. It was groundbreaking because it was heard everywhere, and my father asked me, "What is this Chevy to the Levee song?" Pop is long gone, but I still treasure that moment. My father asked me for an answer, not the other way around. Going to be 75 in September. Where in the hell did the time go?
I wasnt even conceived when this song came out. Not many songs can attract people from a completely different generation, but this song does. It so does!
This is by far one of the most powerful songs I know. I can listen to this song a hundred times, and It’s always just as powerful as the first time. Don McLean is one powerful singer!
I'm Italian but I always passionate about USA and its beautiful landscapes, the famous Route 66, its magnificent cars, the rocknroll, everything!!! ... And this song has a very deep meaning. Thank you Don!!
Si, hai ragione! La mia famiglia andavamo in macchina quattro volte dal East Coast - West Coast, e ć è tanto da vedere. Quando ho spostato mio marito stavamo andando da Texas fino a casa degli mei genitori a New Mexico e mio marito mi ha chiesto a firmare per prendere delle foto. Ho detto, “Ma perché? Non ć è niente da vedere!!” E lui mi disse, “Esattamente!” Non sapevo che in Italia non c’era deserto. 😂😂😂 Good times! ❤❤❤ Ma adoro la Italia & Sicilia purè. 🥰
Just like Hotel California a lyrical masterpiece by a true legend. I'm writing this today and in a hundred years when we are gone others will still be singing along to this.
1 of those songs where when it starts you cant help the smile forming on your face as you start to sing along from start to end, love this tune, always have since i was a kid
Tomorrow marks the 50th anniversary of the US Release of the long version (which you just saw here) ..... The song is in no small way an ANTHEM for a generation of kids, now in their 70s, who grew up with Rock n Roll ...... Thanks to Don for really nailing it, and giving us this legacy!
Such a beautiful poetic Enigma. Full of history. So rarely do we hear recording artists put so much effort into scripting such a deep and meaningful story.
Jesus Loves you so much! You may not think it but there is a reason you’re seeing this. He wants you to know Him so you Two can have a Relationship:)❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
I must have been about eight years old when my dad would play this song in the 8-track deck of our brand new Dodge Aries K. This will always bring back amazing memories.
What a classic, this song never gets old. Lyrics that are priceless and timeless. February 3 1959 - February 3 2019 60 years the music dead February 3 1959 - February 3 2019 60 years the music dead
ahh nostalgia. I remember sitting in the back seat drinking juice and hearing this song on the radio on a long road trip when mom & dad still loved each other. Life was perfect. Flash forward 30 years, mom and dad separated, i don't have time to take road trips, and I have to deal with real life. Enjoy childhood while it lasts kids, you can't go back. At most you can listen to old songs and hold on to the memories. damm i miss those days.
Thanks. My Dad was not the nicest man. I forgave him before he died. He mumbled an apology for hurting me. It's between God and him now. I miss my Mom. My little sister tried to steal 100% of the inheritance. That's another story.
heeheehaahaa omg whoever you are, I just gotta know. I have such a deep connection to this song and I don’t know why. You go out now, and have a blessed life. ❤️
Such a prophetic song. The brilliance of the the lyrics. The brilliance of Don McLean to keep it open to interpretation . This song keeps evolving through every decade. On the eve of 9/11 20 year anniversary I’m listening. This song will continue to be relevant. American Pie has earned it’s place in the league of top 20 songs of the 20th century.
@@chrismulwee4911 It's connected imo. The "day the music died" was the day the current establishment took over our culture from the original masonic establishment. That day set the stage for the Epsteins and EMI to begin destroying our culture via groups such as the Beetles. It also represents the beginning of the current 5 eyes era. Holly and the more wholesome American rock stars needed to be removed from the picture to create the cultural voided required for the Monkees, Rolling Stones, and Beetles to come in. Sound crazy? That's why it's only alluded to in allegory / not openly discussed.
Jesus Loves you so much! You may not think it but there is a reason you’re seeing this. He wants you to know Him so you Two can have a Relationship:)❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
@@johnsanders9622 Jesus Loves you so much! You may not think it but there is a reason you’re seeing this. He wants you to know Him so you Two can have a Relationship:)❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
@@chrismulwee4911 Jesus Loves you so much! You may not think it but there is a reason you’re seeing this. He wants you to know Him so you Two can have a Relationship:)❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Great classic American song.... loved it for nearly 5 decades and now it has kind of become my son and i’s song. We have made up some quirky lyrics and just laugh outloud when we sing it.... this song has brought me great joy for a long time......
I fell in a 8 day coma to pneumonia, lung collapse, and sepsis in 2018 and a week before I was drinking with my friends at lake Ray Hubbard here in Texas. Song touches me so deep for some reason I don’t know why I guess as a person with a lot of health issues each time me and my friends hang out could be the last.
The three empty chairs near the end were representing Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and The Big Bopper. "The day the music died" was when the three of them all died in a plane crash. The lyrics in that same place showing the chairs was referring to them as the father, the son, and the holy ghost catching the train to the coast. RIP
and just maybe, that is the time to pray. And after prayer, maybe then it is trying to get out there and save a nation. Pick up the litter. Maybe somehow trying to make things good. Just in one's own neighborhood. Make the best of a dying world. God Bless.
@@jenniferdixon7633 Actually I think you're the one whose right, the song is about: February 3, 1959, The day the music died Rock 'n' roll star Buddy Holly, 22, perishes along with fellow hit-makers Richie Valens, J.P. 'The Big Bopper' Richardson, and their pilot, when their Beechcraft plane goes down in a storm shortly after takeoff, it's found near Clear Lake, Iowa. The event later became known as "The Day the Music Died", after singer-songwriter Don McLean referred to it as such in his 1971 song "American Pie".
Anyone over 50 has a story that goes with this tune. What a classic, this song never gets old. Lyrics that are priceless and timeless. What a classic, this song never gets old. Lyrics that are priceless and timeless.
I know it feels impossible. But think about the positive: This Song New Medicine New Technology New Life Saving Equipment New Life Saving Techniques And so much more Remember, the only difference between a pessimist and an optimist is a pessimist sees difficulty in every opportunity and an optimist sees opportunity in every difficulty (basically, try to find the good in the bad not the bad in the good). Good luck, mate.
I was 18 years old when Madonna played her version of this song in 2000. Later, i found that the original belongs to Don Mclean. It brings back a lot of memories.
I’m 14 and this is my favourite song, it truly is timeless, I was so shocked when I found out it was released in 1971. Honestly, it is actually timeless, it could have been released today and I wouldn’t bat an eye
Jesus Loves you so much! You may not think it but there is a reason you’re seeing this. He wants you to know Him so you Two can have a Relationship:)❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
I Dedicate this to my wifes uncle Bobby. He always loved this song and it had a GREAT meaning to it to him. He had passsdd away in 2017. Rest in peace ❤
My dad was going to college and was getting out of class about Noon when he heard the news. He told me it really made him sit back and think a minuet as he had seen Buddy Holly twice in the late 50's. Years later I got to know a guy that was at the show at The Surf and covered the story for the Mason City Gazette. Feb 3 2019 will be 60 years since the crash.... Tempus Fugit.
I remember a long ride from home, felt like it was one. I just graduated from either elementary or transitioning to the fifth grade. I recall turning on the radio, and listening to this song. Upon hearing it I cried. This song still gets me very emotional.
I remember trying to memorize this in high school. Our "tv station" had a contest that whoever could sing either this or Bohemian Rapsody in its entirety w/out messing up would get a $50 Chipotle gift card
I heard this as an intro to THE MORNING SHOW on AppleTV+ and now this is on my playlist and I haven't kept a count of how many times I have heard this. I am a fan. We need songs like these in 2020. All we have is semi-nude girls, exotic cars, cash, rigged dude, and other sick props.
lyrics: A long, long time ago I can still remember how that music used to make me smile And I knew if I had my chance that I could make those people dance And maybe they'd be happy for a while But February made me shiver With every paper I'd deliver Bad news on the doorstep I couldn't take one more step I can't remember if I cried When I read about his widowed bride But something touched me deep inside The day the music died So bye-bye, Miss American Pie Drove my Chevy to the levee, but the levee was dry And them good old boys were drinkin' whiskey and rye Singin' "This'll be the day that I die This'll be the day that I die" Did you write the book of love, and do you have faith in God above If the Bible tells you so? Now do you believe in rock and roll, can music save your mortal soul And can you teach me how to dance real slow? Well, I know that you're in love with him 'Cause I saw you dancin' in the gym You both kicked off your shoes Man, I dig those rhythm and blues I was a lonely teenage broncin' buck With a pink carnation and a pickup truck But I knew I was out of luck The day the music died I started singin' bye-bye, Miss American Pie Drove my Chevy to the levee, but the levee was dry Them good old boys were drinkin' whiskey and rye And singin' "This'll be the day that I die This'll be the day that I die" Now for ten years we've been on our own, and moss grows fat on a rollin' stone But that's not how it used to be When the jester sang for the king and queen in a coat he borrowed from James Dean And a voice that came from you and me Oh, and while the king was looking down The jester stole his thorny crown The courtroom was adjourned No verdict was returned And while Lenin read a book on Marx A quartet practiced in the park And we sang dirges in the dark The day the music died We were singin' bye-bye, Miss American Pie Drove my Chevy to the levee, but the levee was dry Them good old boys were drinkin' whiskey and rye Singin' "This'll be the day that I die This'll be the day that I die" Helter skelter in a summer swelter, the birds flew off with a fallout shelter Eight miles high and falling fast It landed foul on the grass, the players tried for a forward pass With the jester on the sidelines in a cast Now the halftime air was sweet perfume While the sergeants played a marching tune We all got up to dance Oh, but we never got the chance 'Cause the players tried to take the field The marching band refused to yield Do you recall what was revealed The day the music died? We started singin' bye-bye, Miss American Pie Drove my Chevy to the levee, but the levee was dry Them good old boys were drinkin' whiskey and rye And singin' "This'll be the day that I die This'll be the day that I die" Oh, and there we were all in one place, a generation lost in space With no time left to start again So come on, Jack be nimble, Jack be quick, Jack Flash sat on a candlestick 'Cause fire is the devil's only friend Oh, and as I watched him on the stage My hands were clenched in fists of rage No angel born in Hell Could break that Satan's spell And as the flames climbed high into the night To light the sacrificial rite I saw Satan laughing with delight The day the music died I started singin' it Singin' bye-bye, Miss American Pie Drove my Chevy to the levee, but the levee was dry Them good old boys were drinkin' whiskey and rye And singin' "This'll be the day that I die This'll be the day that I die" I met a girl who sang the blues, and I asked her for some happy news But she just smiled and turned away I went down to the sacred store where I'd heard the music years before But the man there said the music wouldn't play And in the streets, the children screamed The lovers cried, and the poets dreamed But not a word was spoken The church bells all were broken And the three men I admire most The Father, Son, and the Holy Ghost They caught the last train for the coast The day the music died And they were singin' bye-bye, Miss American Pie Drove my Chevy to the levee, but the levee was dry And them good old boys were drinkin' whiskey and rye Singin' "This'll be the day that I die This'll be the day that I die" They were singin' bye-bye, Miss American Pie Drove my Chevy to the levee, but the levee was dry Them good old boys were drinkin' whiskey and rye And singin' This'll be the day that I die"
Back in the day. I remember as a young teen aged chap back in the 70's wondering what the Hell did this song mean? As my hair grows ever grayer, I see more of what he sang about. This song, at least to me, is more than just about Buddy Holley and Valens. It is about something that is gone, never to return.
Wow that beautiful how olden days were capture through videos 💖 it's like frozen memories. Wonderful but at the same time it's sad how we have to get old,die n we can never go back to past😢
What a classic, this song never gets old. Lyrics that are priceless and timeless. may be the greatest song ever written may be the greatest song ever written
Thumbs up all you folk who were twelve years old listening to the local radio station, waiting to hear this tune come on so you could crank it up and rock out.
[Intro] A long, long time ago I can still remember how that music used to make me smile And I knew if I had my chance That I could make those people dance And maybe they'd be happy for a while But February made me shiver With every paper I'd deliver Bad news on the doorstep I couldn't take one more step I can't remember if I cried When I read about his widowed bride But something touched me deep inside The day the music died [Chorus:] So bye, bye, Miss American Pie Drove my Chevy to the levee but the levee was dry And them good ole boys were drinking whiskey 'n rye Singin' this'll be the day that I die This'll be the day that I die [Verse 1] Did you write the book of love And do you have faith in God above If the Bible tells you so? Now do you believe in rock and roll? Can music save your mortal soul? And can you teach me how to dance real slow? Well, I know that you're in love with him 'Cause I saw you dancin' in the gym You both kicked off your shoes Man, I dig those rhythm and blues I was a lonely teenage broncin' buck With a pink carnation and a pickup truck But I knew I was out of luck The day the music died [Chorus:] I started singing bye, bye, Miss American Pie Drove my Chevy to the levee but the levee was dry Them good ole boys were drinking whiskey 'n rye Singin' this'll be the day that I die This'll be the day that I die [Verse 2] Now for ten years we've been on our own And moss grows fat on a rollin' stone But that's not how it used to be When the jester sang for the king and queen In a coat he borrowed from James Dean And a voice that came from you and me Oh, and while the king was looking down The jester stole his thorny crown The courtroom was adjourned No verdict was returned And while Lenin read a book on Marx The quartet practiced in the park And we sang dirges in the dark The day the music died [Chorus:] We were singing bye, bye, Miss American Pie Drove my Chevy to the levee but the levee was dry Them good ole boys were drinking whiskey 'n rye Singin' this'll be the day that I die This'll be the day that I die [Verse 3] Helter skelter in a summer swelter The birds flew off with a fallout shelter Eight miles high and falling fast It landed foul on the grass The players tried for a forward pass With the jester on the sidelines in a cast Now the halftime air was sweet perfume While the sergeants played a marching tune We all got up to dance Oh, but we never got the chance 'Cause the players tried to take the field The marching band refused to yield Do you recall what was revealed The day the music died? [Chorus:] We started singing bye, bye, Miss American Pie Drove my Chevy to the levee but the levee was dry Them good ole boys were drinking whiskey 'n rye And singin' this'll be the day that I die This'll be the day that I die [Verse 4] Oh, and there we were all in one place A generation lost in space With no time left to start again So come on, Jack be nimble, Jack be quick Jack Flash sat on a candlestick 'Cause fire is the devil's only friend Oh, and as I watched him on the stage My hands were clenched in fists of rage No angel born in Hell Could break that Satan's spell And as the flames climbed high into the night To light the sacrificial rite I saw Satan laughing with delight The day the music died [Chorus:] He was singing bye, bye, Miss American Pie Drove my Chevy to the levee but the levee was dry Them good ole boys were drinking whiskey 'n rye And singin' this'll be the day that I die This'll be the day that I die [Outro] I met a girl who sang the blues And I asked her for some happy news But she just smiled and turned away I went down to the sacred store Where I'd heard the music years before But the man there said the music wouldn't play And in the streets, the children screamed The lovers cried and the poets dreamed But not a word was spoken The church bells all were broken And the three men I admire most The Father, Son and the Holy Ghost They caught the last train for the coast The day the music died [Chorus:] And they were singing bye, bye, Miss American Pie Drove my Chevy to the levee but the levee was dry And them good ole boys were drinking whiskey 'n rye Singin' this'll be the day that I die This'll be the day that I die [Chorus:] They were singing bye, bye, Miss American Pie Drove my Chevy to the levee but the levee was dry Them good ole boys were drinking whiskey 'n rye And singin' this'll be the day that I die
*And while LENIN read a book on Marx / The quartet practiced in the park" This has to be "LENNON", part of the quartet. Your error reminds of The Big Lebowski, where Donny mentions "I am he Walrus"...
this song is song by every member of my family(moms side). so when my grandma passed away. we all FINALY learned all the lyrics and performed at her funeral.
I am not born yet, when this song was released however it is one of my favorite song. 😍 I don't know why evertime I hear this song it made me feel that I am on that era. Great song!
I remember back in the day going into the Selkirk, NY GE plant a little boy rode out in front of my 18 wheeler about 40' in front of me. I stood up on the brake pedal and avoided him. This was the song on the radio, I can never hear it without thinking of him. I was only going about 25mph and it scared the living S--t out of me. He never knew how lucky he was/is.
I just realized that at 3:14 the boy that gets out of the car is supposed to be Buddy Holly bc of the almost nerd glasses and the B on his jacket stands of Buddy.
My Wonderful wife's best friend and idol, her uncle Bobby Duncan ❤️ she has always remembered him and dedicated this song to him. He was there when No one wasn't at the time him and his wife took her in. She will love and thank him til the day God calls her home to reunite with him. They had lived similar lives and this song describes them down to a T. ❤️ Fly High William (Bobby) Duncan!
i speak spanish i from el salvador but that song is very special for me because that song was fovorite of my friend, he died!!! remember a my friend :( i don't speak english only basic, sorry for mistake in the words!!!
This video was shot at my High School in Burbank California in 1986. John Burroughs High School. Several of my friends were in this video. Such an amazing time in my life!
Underrated comment.
How can it be shot at 1986 when the video is of 1971???????
@@ajas7851time machine
@@ajas7851 The song is from 1971, the video was made in the 80s
Very cool!!!! Love this song, love this video, it's one of my all-time favorites :) Part of it had to have been filmed where there are Joshua Trees present, somewhere in the Mojave Desert. That covers a fairly large area, but I don't recall ever seeing any Joshua Trees in Burbank. You answered my question about who was used in the video, thank you very much!
This was my dad's favorite song, played it at the cemetery after his funeral over 10 years ago. I always use to shed tears when I hear this song. Now it brings a big smile to my face. I love and miss you dad.
At what point does it switch from sadness to happiness?
@@nietzschesmoustache3585It took a couple years, everyone's mourns in a different way. I know he is not suffering anymore and its about the circle of life, I know it sounds corny but it's true. I also receive little signs now and then, or something I do and it reminds me, oh that's the way dad did it, and I do believe its better to be happy for him than to mourn him. I still pray for him and my mom, and I do believe to keep good, happy thoughts about them. Good luck and I pray for you for strength.
Check this out, about 1/2 hour after replying to you, I made something to eat, looking out the window white feathers were falling down. To me that was a sign, and it also makes me happy knowing that his song brought us together in conversation, and even better if it helps you. Take care my friend !!!
@@richardmartinez9986that is a wonderful question Nietzsche's mustache asked you. Keep your wonderful thoughts alive and keep your strength in God. Semper Fi.
I'm sure it does. Look at your name! I hope you cry your sorry ass off!
it's not just a song... it's a STORY... it's an EXPERIENCE
The best songs always are. : )
@@HaulingAsh took the words out of my mouth
Lyric narrative poetry…. Music is poetry. Soooooo filled with symbolism.
I was waiting for someone to say this! ✌
@@martynowak5441 lyrics narrating the poetry of the soul. :)
Don McClean was once asked " " What do the words of American Pie mean ? " He replied " They mean I never have to work again in my life "
He did...and it was a douchebag answer.
Yeah but he explained in depth before what it meant he would need a half hour lol
AMEN,Brother
Anonymous why is that a douche bag answer? The song made him rich, and it still makes him money now... it’s the truth
I heard he was kinda a dick
This was my best friend's favorite song. He was killed by a drunk driver. He was only 17 years old. RIP Scot.
I’m sorry man. Rest in peace Scot.
Rip Scott
Sorry to hear, rest in peace Scot
Rest in Peace, Scott!
Rest in Peace Scot
I am now 67 yrs old and still listen to the song...great great...
You have a goodtaste on music
turned 24 last month, and i have been listening to this song and watching this music video since i was old enough to remember
I'm 64 and this is one of my all time favorite songs!
did you read about the accual day the music died
I am now 15 yrs old and still listen to the song
this gives me extreme chills even though I was born in the 2000s. This song is and will forever be a masterpiece
There is hope for the young! 😆
Same here
It's your duty to make sure it remains that way too!!
why the song give you the chills?
@@whalers59 bro you probably don’t even know how to change your tv from hdmi 1 to 2 💀
This was years ago, about 10.....I had the pleasure of speaking with Mr. Don Mclean over the phone at one of my jobs due to a business matter. I had no idea it was The Don Mclean. He asked if I knew who he was, I said no and he told me he was the person who wrote American Pie. I was so stunned that I continued the call in a professional manner and to this day I regret not telling him it was one of my most favorite songs in the world. After the call I found out it was indeed him! He was so pleasant and respectful to talk to and that's something I will never forget because alot of people do not treat or talk to you with respect. It will always be a special memory for me!
🎉
Been 10 years since I listened to this song yet every single word comes out as If listened to it every day and just 5 min. ago as well.
Innit
All done songs come from the heart
@@virsuu.r6429 no
W
incase anyone wants to know what this is actualy about........this took me two days to write this ................. I can’t remember if i cried when i read about his widowed bride, but something touched me deep inside. the day the music died. On february 3rd, 1959 a plane went down near clear lake iowa, the passengers on board were rock and roll icons Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and The Big Bopper. At the time, people called this incident the day the music died and many worried it would be the death of rock and roll as a movement. The songs narrator recalls this black day and breaks into the corrus a lament for the innocents lost by that plane crash. So bye bye ms american pie. Drove my chevy to the levee but the levee was dry. Them good old boys were drinking whiskey and rye, singin “this’ll be the day that i die.” the chorus is a nostalgia for the time before Buddy Holly died. A nostalgia of america of the 1950’s. It is ladened with american symbols mentioning cleverlys, rye whiskey and of course miss american pie. The symbol of miss american pie is a call back to idyllic images of woman in the 1950’s with dreams and memories of fresh baked pie and and pin up models. These images plunge us into the second verse bathed in nostalgia for more innocent times. Did you write the book of love and do you have faith in god above? If the bible tells you so. The narrator sings of faith and god as well as dancing to rock and roll at holsome high school dances. Well i know that your in love with him ‘couse i saw you dancing in the gym. You both kicked off your shoes. Man, I did them rhythm and blues. This verse features references to a pair of 1950’s hit songs to the monotones Book of Love and Marty robbins A white sport coat and a pink carnation. And while this image may seem perfect on the surface, its intentions were boyling in beneath. At this time, many americans were disenfranchised by institutional racism and sexism while america as a country had a shifting role in the global stage, musically people were become less conservative too and rock and roll was far from dead. We see that as the next verse jumps us a decade ahead to 1969. Now for ten years we have been on our own and moss grows fat on a rolling stone but, that's not how it used to be. Gone are the simple days of high school dances and the bible, replaced with complex arcatiple figures and power struggles that show the evolution of music over the next decade. When the jester sang for the king and queen in a coat he borrowed from James Dean and a voice that came from you and me. The figure that dominates this verse is the jester which many take to represent bob dylan, on the cover on 1963’s The Freewheelin’ Dylan wears a leather jacket remanisant to james dean in Rebel without a cause. But Dylan was a shift away from Dean, He was a rebel with a cause. As mclain put it, he is sang with a voice of the people. Singing protest songs for the youth and the disenfranchised. In doing so he became the face of american music stealing that crown from The King “Elvis Presley”. Oh and while the king was looking down, the jester came and stole his thorny crown. The courtroom was adjourned. No verdict was returned. This line features biblical allegory to, its a crown of thorns same as the one jesus had worn and it weighs heavy on Dylan. The rest of the verse pan out to 1969 with john lennon getting into left wing politics and rock moving into darker more retrospective territory. And while Lennon Read a Book of Marx, The quartet practiced in the park, and we all sang dirges in the dark. The day the music died. From here we cut back to a nostalgic chorus before diving face first into the seray of the late 1960’s. Helter skelter in a summer swelter, the birds flew off with a fallout shelter,eight miles high and falling fast. Helter skelter is a reference to the manson murders in the 1969 in which charles manson believed the beatles songs contained hidden messages. For some, this was a dark end to a hidden movement that had seemed so promising and optimistic. The rest of the fourth verse deals with that very moment by looking at the way people were trying to push forward music and thought at the this time. It landed foul on the grass. The players tried for a forward pass with the jester on this sidelines in a cast. The jester is yet again dillan who was criticized for electric shift in 1965 and then got in a motorcycle crash a year later. This nearly ended his life taking him out of the music seen for a time. On the sidelines in a cast. Undeterred bands like the beatles drove music forward with albums like sgt pepper's lonely hearts club band and referenced clearly here. Now the halftime air was sweet perfume while sargents played a marching tune. We all got up to dance, oh but we never got the chance. But the sargents aren’t just a reference to the beatles the word carries a double meaning. Militaristic confrontations in the mid 60’s america was knee deep in vietnam war which would last almost another decade and that war revealed a lot about america, changing the country's perception on the world's stage and bringing out tensions on the homefront. At the end of the verse mcclain talks about how buddy holly's plane crash fractured in, his death revealed the grime and dismay beneath the slick surface of 50’s america. Do you recall what was revealed the day the music died? The fifth verse takes us to the incident that inspired american pie the “altamont speedway free festival” two years after the roaring success of WoodStock another free concert was planned on an attempt to recapture that hippie magic. Headlined by the rolling stones, the concert turned out to be a disaster. The massive crowd began to be drunk and disorderly as well as did the Hells Angels who were hired for security. By the time the stones took the stage at sundown, it was chaos and a man named meredith hunter was stabbed to death after pulling a revolver in the crowd. The fifth verse captures all of this in beautifully symbolic language. It references the rolling stones song jumpin jack flash while playing up the biblical imagery that has driven the song. So come on jack be nimble jack be quick, jack flash sat on a candlestick ‘cause fire is the devil's only friend. One of the altercations happened while the stones were playing sympathy for the devil, something that mcclain parallels with his lyrics about satin. And as the flames climbed high into the night to light the sacrificial right, i saw satan laughing with delight the day the music died. The altamont concert could be seen as a living representation of american culture, a kayotic dark end to a decade that kicked with so much optimism. The sixth verse of the song deals with the fall out of this with an upbeat jam to a sad, slow lament. I met a girl who sang the blues and i asked her for some happy news, she just smiled and turned away. The girl who sang the blues could be janis joplin in a reference to the death of rock greats such as jim morrison jimi hendrix that signaled the end of the decade in an eco of the day the music died. The last verse ends on a biblical reference to which some have taken in consideration of MLK, JFK, and RFK. however the father son and holy ghost could also be buddy holly, Ritchie Valens and The Big Bopper. And the three men i admire most, the Father, sun and holy ghost, they caught the last train for the coast. The day the music died. And this brings us to one final nostalgic chorus. It may seem to be a call back for the good ‘ol days of miss american pie, but i don’t necessarily think that's the case. The song acknowledges the idyllic 50’s were an illusion and that illusion came crashing down the day the music died. And while their was conflict and tension as well as lives lost in the 60’s, it was also a decade defined by change and progress and of course some of the greatest music ever made. It was a turning point for american culture that still has impacts today as we sit at another historical crux.
dusty dorknut, thanks for taking the time to share this. I have an old newspaper clip somewhere in my memorabilia boxes that endeavors to unravel the mystery of this amazing song. One of the greatest songs of all times...I wonder, why has Don McLean left us speculating?
I think you thought about this, and you are probably pretty spot on . Kind of like american graffiti, taking place in 1962 , thaking place right before the Beatles hit new york, just before Vietnam, the movie is about the end of era, not a day in the life . It is followed up by the movie more american graffiti that takes place in 1967. 5 years later
Back in the early 80's I remember an interview with him about the lyrics and here is some of what I remember he said: The part about no verdict was returned was about the Kennedy assassination and there wasn't a verdict because Oswald was killed. "The Byrds flew off to the fall out shelter" is a reference to one of the Byrds band members being arrested for drugs and went to rehab for it, fallout shelter is another meaning back then for rehab. Eight miles high and falling fast is referencing- "Eight Miles High" was the first ever psychedelic song by the Byrds and they were on LSD or something when they did it; and the falling fast was them "falling" or abandoning folk-rock for country music with the album "Sweetheart of the Rodeo," in 1967. Falling on the foul grass was another reference to Marijuana. I also remember him saying the end of the song about "what did it reveal" had something to do with all the freedom protests failed and the govt is corrupt in the end.
Thank you for the information.good work.
Nice work. The Grateful Dead played that Altamont show also. That show stings all around for any fans of the bands who played it.
This song reminds me of my friend Sean. He’s fine and healthy, this just reminds me of him
This song reminds of every single male cousin and uncle I have. We listen to this song basically every time our family gets together
nice!!!!
Give my best to Sean!
@@matthewsmith3078 we actually don’t talk much anymore. I miss him
I'm only 18 years old, but when I found that song, I'm fall in love with this. Thank you Don Mclean❤️
Same
@@isaiahholland4917 damn dude in that picture you definitely look 18
@@steviefeelingood3803 lmao that ain’t me
I listened to this song today... For the first time it was in the movie FINCH ending sceen...this song is beautiful.. Ayyyy
Same here❤️thankful to Finch movie I've found this masterpiece ❤️
How ironic that this song is interrupted in the middle by a youtube ad.
3 years later and it’s still there, rude man just rude!
This is a great song and the fact that UA-cam decided to play a got dam ad while I'm watching the video killed my vibe
Actually, it at least broke up a ridiculous, failed attempt at a video.
It was the content creator that placed the ad in the middle, not UA-cam, thank the person who uploaded it.
I just ad blocker.
@@robertross9074 you're the one who's ridiculous. Quit trying to ruin our enjoyment of this classic.
@@DavidRay39 Eat it, David Ray. If this is the only way you can "enjoy this classic," then you are an idiot.
I was a 15 year old working at the Illinois State Fair back in 71. Worked at the grandstand hawking soda's at the days horse races, tractor pulls etc. At night they had concerts and Don McLean performed there one evening. I always remembered this song from that night, felt there was something magical about it. And here I'am now 67 in 2024 still listening to him, some songs just stand the test of time.
Thank you for sharing your story and allowing us to time travel with you!
RIP Buddy Holly, Big Bopper, and Ritchie Valens. your music will live forever
Certainly can't forget those that died in that plane crash.
911 ?
@@jojotamayoayo1709 Rip Buddy Holly
Brenden Lyons It was a plane crash in 1959. Three musicians died so it was referred to as the day that music died.
Brenden Lyons it was a plane crash in 1959, killed 3 rock n roll superstars
When Buddy Holly died, I was about nine years old. I knew who he was and understood that someone special had been killed. But only because my sister was nine years older than me. So, through her, I understood it was a big deal. Let's move from my youth to early adulthood. I was still a Buddy Holly fan. When this song came out, I was about 21, maybe 22. It was groundbreaking because it was heard everywhere, and my father asked me, "What is this Chevy to the Levee song?" Pop is long gone, but I still treasure that moment. My father asked me for an answer, not the other way around. Going to be 75 in September. Where in the hell did the time go?
I wasnt even conceived when this song came out. Not many songs can attract people from a completely different generation, but this song does. It so does!
This is by far one of the most powerful songs I know. I can listen to this song a hundred times, and It’s always just as powerful as the first time. Don McLean is one powerful singer!
One powerful song writer 💯
Look up Love of My Life by Queen. It is shorter, but very powerful.
I'm Italian but I always passionate about USA and its beautiful landscapes, the famous Route 66, its magnificent cars, the rocknroll, everything!!! ... And this song has a very deep meaning. Thank you Don!!
It all gone
@@sallydorsey1851 The nostalgia is still there.
Si, hai ragione! La mia famiglia andavamo in macchina quattro volte dal East Coast - West Coast, e ć è tanto da vedere. Quando ho spostato mio marito stavamo andando da Texas fino a casa degli mei genitori a New Mexico e mio marito mi ha chiesto a firmare per prendere delle foto. Ho detto, “Ma perché? Non ć è niente da vedere!!” E lui mi disse, “Esattamente!” Non sapevo che in Italia non c’era deserto. 😂😂😂 Good times! ❤❤❤ Ma adoro la Italia & Sicilia purè. 🥰
the song makes me feel like i've been to the states in the 70s,yet am 40 yrs old and have lived in kenya all my life.
That is amazing!
Come over for a visit.
Beautiful sentiment
😀💝
Same bro, nostalgic over an era and country i have never been to
Just like Hotel California a lyrical masterpiece by a true legend. I'm writing this today and in a hundred years when we are gone others will still be singing along to this.
Not like hotel california at all then.
Hotel California is a over played song that finally got put on the shelf next to stairway to heaven.
I hope this is remembered in the future
God willing
Born in 68, those are the two songs that will always remind me of my childhood
This was one of myself and my departed wifes favourite songs! Always brings a smile to my face whenever i hear it. Love and miss you sue😢x
1 of those songs where when it starts you cant help the smile forming on your face as you start to sing along from start to end, love this tune, always have since i was a kid
Covid 19 bye bye american pie
No good news
Yeah. Cant help singing either (for me atleast)
Tomorrow marks the 50th anniversary of the US Release of the long version (which you just saw here) ..... The song is in no small way an ANTHEM for a generation of kids, now in their 70s, who grew up with Rock n Roll ...... Thanks to Don for really nailing it, and giving us this legacy!
I was born 20 years after this song came out and I know it word for word, one of my favourites!
Such a beautiful poetic Enigma. Full of history. So rarely do we hear recording artists put so much effort into scripting such a deep and meaningful story.
Jesus Loves you so much! You may not think it but there is a reason you’re seeing this. He wants you to know Him so you Two can have a Relationship:)❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
I must have been about eight years old when my dad would play this song in the 8-track deck of our brand new Dodge Aries K. This will always bring back amazing memories.
What a classic, this song never gets old. Lyrics that are priceless and timeless.
February 3 1959 - February 3 2019
60 years the music dead
February 3 1959 - February 3 2019
60 years the music dead
ahh nostalgia. I remember sitting in the back seat drinking juice and hearing this song on the radio on a long road trip when mom & dad still loved each other. Life was perfect. Flash forward 30 years, mom and dad separated, i don't have time to take road trips, and I have to deal with real life. Enjoy childhood while it lasts kids, you can't go back. At most you can listen to old songs and hold on to the memories. damm i miss those days.
Don't we all. Dad died in 2010. Mom died 2017.
@@paulleckner8235 Im sorry Paul. :(
Thanks. My Dad was not the nicest man. I forgave him before he died. He mumbled an apology for hurting me. It's between God and him now. I miss my Mom. My little sister tried to steal 100% of the inheritance. That's another story.
It's gonna be O.K.
heeheehaahaa omg whoever you are, I just gotta know. I have such a deep connection to this song and I don’t know why. You go out now, and have a blessed life. ❤️
Classics like this bring me back to a time when life seemed less complicated.....and more fun!
Yes, like watching the Brady Bunch, Gilligans Island or the Munsters.
@@Houston343 Great shows
Such a prophetic song. The brilliance of the the lyrics. The brilliance of Don McLean to keep it open to interpretation . This song keeps evolving through every decade. On the eve of 9/11 20 year anniversary I’m listening. This song will continue to be relevant. American Pie has earned it’s place in the league of top 20 songs of the 20th century.
The song has NO connection to 9/11 that I can tell.
@@chrismulwee4911 It's connected imo. The "day the music died" was the day the current establishment took over our culture from the original masonic establishment. That day set the stage for the Epsteins and EMI to begin destroying our culture via groups such as the Beetles. It also represents the beginning of the current 5 eyes era. Holly and the more wholesome American rock stars needed to be removed from the picture to create the cultural voided required for the Monkees, Rolling Stones, and Beetles to come in.
Sound crazy? That's why it's only alluded to in allegory / not openly discussed.
Jesus Loves you so much! You may not think it but there is a reason you’re seeing this. He wants you to know Him so you Two can have a Relationship:)❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
@@johnsanders9622 Jesus Loves you so much! You may not think it but there is a reason you’re seeing this. He wants you to know Him so you Two can have a Relationship:)❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
@@chrismulwee4911 Jesus Loves you so much! You may not think it but there is a reason you’re seeing this. He wants you to know Him so you Two can have a Relationship:)❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
There's MUCH more to this epic song than most people think.
Too true RIP
Definitely
It is about the destruction of America by God for punishment of her sins. It is not about Rock And Roll.
Man. I feel dated, I know every word. 60 and still Loving it
Great classic American song.... loved it for nearly 5 decades and now it has kind of become my son and i’s song. We have made up some quirky lyrics and just laugh outloud when we sing it.... this song has brought me great joy for a long time......
One of the 5 best recordings of the 20th century.
And the others are Bohemian Rhapsody, Holst's Jupiter, Stairway to Heaven, and The Unforgivens?
(Don McLean’s, American Pie); (Elton John’s, Tiny Dancer) & (The Beatles, Hey Jude) Absolute Golden Favourite Music Songs Of All Time & More Others.
I fell in a 8 day coma to pneumonia, lung collapse, and sepsis in 2018 and a week before I was drinking with my friends at lake Ray Hubbard here in Texas. Song touches me so deep for some reason I don’t know why I guess as a person with a lot of health issues each time me and my friends hang out could be the last.
Memories, if only I could live through the 70 s again.bliss....
The three empty chairs near the end were representing Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and The Big Bopper. "The day the music died" was when the three of them all died in a plane crash. The lyrics in that same place showing the chairs was referring to them as the father, the son, and the holy ghost catching the train to the coast. RIP
Cool thanks. Been trying to insight into this song
@@jackhayes6273 I think it's about his loss of faith when he read the bad news while he was delivering papers
@@maddyg3208 I never thought of that, Maddy. Wow. This song is so insanely amazing it can be interpreted in so many ways!
"I met a girl, who sang the blues. I asked her for some happy news. But, she just smiled, and turned away."
At least post the rest of the lyrics
One of the girlfriends of the three killed in the plane crash, maybe.
@@jenniferdixon7633 No. He's referring to a time that he met Janis Joplin.
and just maybe, that is the time to pray. And after prayer, maybe then it is trying to get out there and save a nation. Pick up the litter. Maybe somehow trying to make things good. Just in one's own neighborhood. Make the best of a dying world. God Bless.
@@jenniferdixon7633 Actually I think you're the one whose right, the song is about:
February 3, 1959, The day the music died Rock 'n' roll star Buddy Holly, 22, perishes along with fellow hit-makers Richie Valens, J.P. 'The Big Bopper' Richardson, and their pilot, when their Beechcraft plane goes down in a storm shortly after takeoff, it's found near Clear Lake, Iowa. The event later became known as "The Day the Music Died", after singer-songwriter Don McLean referred to it as such in his 1971 song "American Pie".
This song still has deep meaning today at the end of 2018....
Hell ya
Yup 2019
Like Sarah Palin sometimes says, you betcha.
@@mikedavis6637 Heavens yes.
@Ahegao Senpai Aleluia !
Anyone over 50 has a story that goes with this tune.
What a classic, this song never gets old. Lyrics that are priceless and timeless.
What a classic, this song never gets old. Lyrics that are priceless and timeless.
I’m 51, so I just made the cut!
June 2023 … Lovin this classic song… anyone with me 💪💪💪
I graduated from Central High school in 1960. Watching this reminded me of what we have lost. Most of all we have lost freedom and innocence.
The living legend song rock en roll
No better way to put it,Robert.........
I know it feels impossible. But think about the positive:
This Song
New Medicine
New Technology
New Life Saving Equipment
New Life Saving Techniques
And so much more
Remember, the only difference between a pessimist and an optimist is a pessimist sees difficulty in every opportunity and an optimist sees opportunity in every difficulty (basically, try to find the good in the bad not the bad in the good). Good luck, mate.
Some of the GREATEST lyrics ever written.
I was 18 years old when Madonna played her version of this song in 2000. Later, i found that the original belongs to Don Mclean.
It brings back a lot of memories.
I’m 14 and this is my favourite song, it truly is timeless, I was so shocked when I found out it was released in 1971. Honestly, it is actually timeless, it could have been released today and I wouldn’t bat an eye
Jesus Loves you so much! You may not think it but there is a reason you’re seeing this. He wants you to know Him so you Two can have a Relationship:)❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
0% ego
0% arrogance
0% drugs
0% autotune
100% talent
A masterpiece forever!!!
I Dedicate this to my wifes uncle Bobby. He always loved this song and it had a GREAT meaning to it to him. He had passsdd away in 2017. Rest in peace ❤
rest in peace, bobby...
❤❤🩹
My dad was going to college and was getting out of class about Noon when he heard the news. He told me it really made him sit back and think a minuet as he had seen Buddy Holly twice in the late 50's. Years later I got to know a guy that was at the show at The Surf and covered the story for the Mason City Gazette. Feb 3 2019 will be 60 years since the crash.... Tempus Fugit.
Taylor Swift may have a longer song now but this one is a classic!
I remember a long ride from home, felt like it was one. I just graduated from either elementary or transitioning to the fifth grade.
I recall turning on the radio, and listening to this song. Upon hearing it I cried. This song still gets me very emotional.
This song is the universe’s greatest musical composition.
I’m only 17 yrs old but this is one of my favorite songs
I remember trying to memorize this in high school. Our "tv station" had a contest that whoever could sing either this or Bohemian Rapsody in its entirety w/out messing up would get a $50 Chipotle gift card
This song is Timeless , it is a True Classic.. 🎼🎤💞
Perfect song. Even so after so many years
Legendary song, goes on and on!! Legendary artist!! Oct 2022 👍👍❤❤🖤😃😃
I have the 4 5. One of my favorite tunes of all time! Thank you!
I heard it for less than 30 seconds in Black Widow and its stuck in my head for almost a week.
Same here
Still love ❤️ this song ✌️
I heard this as an intro to THE MORNING SHOW on AppleTV+ and now this is on my playlist and I haven't kept a count of how many times I have heard this. I am a fan.
We need songs like these in 2020. All we have is semi-nude girls, exotic cars, cash, rigged dude, and other sick props.
lyrics:
A long, long time ago
I can still remember how that music used to make me smile
And I knew if I had my chance that I could make those people dance
And maybe they'd be happy for a while
But February made me shiver
With every paper I'd deliver
Bad news on the doorstep
I couldn't take one more step
I can't remember if I cried
When I read about his widowed bride
But something touched me deep inside
The day the music died
So bye-bye, Miss American Pie
Drove my Chevy to the levee, but the levee was dry
And them good old boys were drinkin' whiskey and rye
Singin' "This'll be the day that I die
This'll be the day that I die"
Did you write the book of love, and do you have faith in God above
If the Bible tells you so?
Now do you believe in rock and roll, can music save your mortal soul
And can you teach me how to dance real slow?
Well, I know that you're in love with him
'Cause I saw you dancin' in the gym
You both kicked off your shoes
Man, I dig those rhythm and blues
I was a lonely teenage broncin' buck
With a pink carnation and a pickup truck
But I knew I was out of luck
The day the music died
I started singin' bye-bye, Miss American Pie
Drove my Chevy to the levee, but the levee was dry
Them good old boys were drinkin' whiskey and rye
And singin' "This'll be the day that I die
This'll be the day that I die"
Now for ten years we've been on our own, and moss grows fat on a rollin' stone
But that's not how it used to be
When the jester sang for the king and queen in a coat he borrowed from James Dean
And a voice that came from you and me
Oh, and while the king was looking down
The jester stole his thorny crown
The courtroom was adjourned
No verdict was returned
And while Lenin read a book on Marx
A quartet practiced in the park
And we sang dirges in the dark
The day the music died
We were singin' bye-bye, Miss American Pie
Drove my Chevy to the levee, but the levee was dry
Them good old boys were drinkin' whiskey and rye
Singin' "This'll be the day that I die
This'll be the day that I die"
Helter skelter in a summer swelter, the birds flew off with a fallout shelter
Eight miles high and falling fast
It landed foul on the grass, the players tried for a forward pass
With the jester on the sidelines in a cast
Now the halftime air was sweet perfume
While the sergeants played a marching tune
We all got up to dance
Oh, but we never got the chance
'Cause the players tried to take the field
The marching band refused to yield
Do you recall what was revealed
The day the music died?
We started singin' bye-bye, Miss American Pie
Drove my Chevy to the levee, but the levee was dry
Them good old boys were drinkin' whiskey and rye
And singin' "This'll be the day that I die
This'll be the day that I die"
Oh, and there we were all in one place, a generation lost in space
With no time left to start again
So come on, Jack be nimble, Jack be quick, Jack Flash sat on a candlestick
'Cause fire is the devil's only friend
Oh, and as I watched him on the stage
My hands were clenched in fists of rage
No angel born in Hell
Could break that Satan's spell
And as the flames climbed high into the night
To light the sacrificial rite
I saw Satan laughing with delight
The day the music died
I started singin' it
Singin' bye-bye, Miss American Pie
Drove my Chevy to the levee, but the levee was dry
Them good old boys were drinkin' whiskey and rye
And singin' "This'll be the day that I die
This'll be the day that I die"
I met a girl who sang the blues, and I asked her for some happy news
But she just smiled and turned away
I went down to the sacred store where I'd heard the music years before
But the man there said the music wouldn't play
And in the streets, the children screamed
The lovers cried, and the poets dreamed
But not a word was spoken
The church bells all were broken
And the three men I admire most
The Father, Son, and the Holy Ghost
They caught the last train for the coast
The day the music died
And they were singin' bye-bye, Miss American Pie
Drove my Chevy to the levee, but the levee was dry
And them good old boys were drinkin' whiskey and rye
Singin' "This'll be the day that I die
This'll be the day that I die"
They were singin' bye-bye, Miss American Pie
Drove my Chevy to the levee, but the levee was dry
Them good old boys were drinkin' whiskey and rye
And singin' This'll be the day that I die"
Back in the day. I remember as a young teen aged chap back in the 70's wondering what the Hell did this song mean? As my hair grows ever grayer, I see more of what he sang about. This song, at least to me, is more than just about Buddy Holley and Valens. It is about something that is gone, never to return.
Wow. Just wow. Startled me in 10 words. Honestly. Wow
I've been listening to this song for many meaningful years! Great song ♡
Great song, loved it all my life
What a song reminds me of my dad❤
What a truly amazing song...
What an absolute legendary song.
This song touches all of us all over the world,then and now...i wonder if Don realized that when he wrote it...
Wow that beautiful how olden days were capture through videos 💖 it's like frozen memories. Wonderful but at the same time it's sad how we have to get old,die n we can never go back to past😢
What a classic, this song never gets old. Lyrics that are priceless and timeless.
may be the greatest song ever written
may be the greatest song ever written
Thumbs up all you folk who were twelve years old listening to the local radio station, waiting to hear this tune come on so you could crank it up and rock out.
A song that I built my childhood around. Nostalgia
This song reminds me so much of high school.
[Intro]
A long, long time ago
I can still remember how that music used to make me smile
And I knew if I had my chance
That I could make those people dance
And maybe they'd be happy for a while
But February made me shiver
With every paper I'd deliver
Bad news on the doorstep
I couldn't take one more step
I can't remember if I cried
When I read about his widowed bride
But something touched me deep inside
The day the music died
[Chorus:]
So bye, bye, Miss American Pie
Drove my Chevy to the levee but the levee was dry
And them good ole boys were drinking whiskey 'n rye
Singin' this'll be the day that I die
This'll be the day that I die
[Verse 1]
Did you write the book of love
And do you have faith in God above
If the Bible tells you so?
Now do you believe in rock and roll?
Can music save your mortal soul?
And can you teach me how to dance real slow?
Well, I know that you're in love with him
'Cause I saw you dancin' in the gym
You both kicked off your shoes
Man, I dig those rhythm and blues
I was a lonely teenage broncin' buck
With a pink carnation and a pickup truck
But I knew I was out of luck
The day the music died
[Chorus:]
I started singing bye, bye, Miss American Pie
Drove my Chevy to the levee but the levee was dry
Them good ole boys were drinking whiskey 'n rye
Singin' this'll be the day that I die
This'll be the day that I die
[Verse 2]
Now for ten years we've been on our own
And moss grows fat on a rollin' stone
But that's not how it used to be
When the jester sang for the king and queen
In a coat he borrowed from James Dean
And a voice that came from you and me
Oh, and while the king was looking down
The jester stole his thorny crown
The courtroom was adjourned
No verdict was returned
And while Lenin read a book on Marx
The quartet practiced in the park
And we sang dirges in the dark
The day the music died
[Chorus:]
We were singing bye, bye, Miss American Pie
Drove my Chevy to the levee but the levee was dry
Them good ole boys were drinking whiskey 'n rye
Singin' this'll be the day that I die
This'll be the day that I die
[Verse 3]
Helter skelter in a summer swelter
The birds flew off with a fallout shelter
Eight miles high and falling fast
It landed foul on the grass
The players tried for a forward pass
With the jester on the sidelines in a cast
Now the halftime air was sweet perfume
While the sergeants played a marching tune
We all got up to dance
Oh, but we never got the chance
'Cause the players tried to take the field
The marching band refused to yield
Do you recall what was revealed
The day the music died?
[Chorus:]
We started singing bye, bye, Miss American Pie
Drove my Chevy to the levee but the levee was dry
Them good ole boys were drinking whiskey 'n rye
And singin' this'll be the day that I die
This'll be the day that I die
[Verse 4]
Oh, and there we were all in one place
A generation lost in space
With no time left to start again
So come on, Jack be nimble, Jack be quick
Jack Flash sat on a candlestick
'Cause fire is the devil's only friend
Oh, and as I watched him on the stage
My hands were clenched in fists of rage
No angel born in Hell
Could break that Satan's spell
And as the flames climbed high into the night
To light the sacrificial rite
I saw Satan laughing with delight
The day the music died
[Chorus:]
He was singing bye, bye, Miss American Pie
Drove my Chevy to the levee but the levee was dry
Them good ole boys were drinking whiskey 'n rye
And singin' this'll be the day that I die
This'll be the day that I die
[Outro]
I met a girl who sang the blues
And I asked her for some happy news
But she just smiled and turned away
I went down to the sacred store
Where I'd heard the music years before
But the man there said the music wouldn't play
And in the streets, the children screamed
The lovers cried and the poets dreamed
But not a word was spoken
The church bells all were broken
And the three men I admire most
The Father, Son and the Holy Ghost
They caught the last train for the coast
The day the music died
[Chorus:]
And they were singing bye, bye, Miss American Pie
Drove my Chevy to the levee but the levee was dry
And them good ole boys were drinking whiskey 'n rye
Singin' this'll be the day that I die
This'll be the day that I die
[Chorus:]
They were singing bye, bye, Miss American Pie
Drove my Chevy to the levee but the levee was dry
Them good ole boys were drinking whiskey 'n rye
And singin' this'll be the day that I die
*And while LENIN read a book on Marx / The quartet practiced in the park"
This has to be "LENNON", part of the quartet.
Your error reminds of The Big Lebowski, where Donny mentions "I am he Walrus"...
Didn't know what I was listening to as a child but I knew this song was special. Great music has no color.❤
Soooooooooo many AWESOME memories from back in the day 💖💖💖 Thanks for this wonderful video!!!!
this song is song by every member of my family(moms side). so when my grandma passed away. we all FINALY learned all the lyrics and performed at her funeral.
I am not born yet, when this song was released however it is one of my favorite song. 😍 I don't know why evertime I hear this song it made me feel that I am on that era. Great song!
One of my all time favorites.
Soon enough we all will be gone, nothing but a memory. This song however, will remain.
👍
utwór mojej młodości! nie było wtedy kompów, internetu, słuchało sie z uchem przytknietym do głośnika radia!!! :)))
Awesome song and amazing video. Thanks. My favorite song to a new level.
i was 9 when i saw this song im 14 and still loving it
My all time favorite song!
Hello and how do you do..? I don't think there's anyone who doesn't love this amazing masterpiece 💜
The music lives...when I play this video. Keep the music playing...music saves the soul.
The world sure has changed
I remember back in the day going into the Selkirk, NY GE plant a little boy rode out in front of my 18 wheeler about 40' in front of me. I stood up on the brake pedal and avoided him. This was the song on the radio, I can never hear it without thinking of him. I was only going about 25mph and it scared the living S--t out of me. He never knew how lucky he was/is.
thank you George.....you are a good man
I love this song very much
A classic masterpiece, the lyrics are like a piece of story framing the american lifestyle. A song for all ages
I just realized that at 3:14 the boy that gets out of the car is supposed to be Buddy Holly bc of the almost nerd glasses and the B on his jacket stands of Buddy.
Sad, but beautiful. Loved this song from the first time I heard it.
Today, again i remember to Buddy Holly, Richie Valens and The Big Bopper with this marvelous song, thanks ever Don McLean.
Best Song ever written!!!!
My Wonderful wife's best friend and idol, her uncle Bobby Duncan ❤️ she has always remembered him and dedicated this song to him. He was there when No one wasn't at the time him and his wife took her in. She will love and thank him til the day God calls her home to reunite with him. They had lived similar lives and this song describes them down to a T. ❤️ Fly High William (Bobby) Duncan!
i speak spanish i from el salvador but that song is very special for me because that song was fovorite of my friend, he died!!! remember a my friend :( i don't speak english only basic, sorry for mistake in the words!!!
Pablo you speak far better English than I do Spanish best wishes .
You expressed yourself perfectly Pablo... Bless you and your friend ...
you did great no problems
Dude, your words were perfect.
IT WAS ABOUT 3 MUSICIANS WHO DIED IN A PLANE CRASH, BUDDY HOLLY, RITCHIE VALENCE AND THE BIG BOPPER!!
Love this song, use to play it when I was very young LOL
One of the greatest songs ever👍 a great history lesson....
What a Song!!! Love from India 🇮🇳🇮🇳🇮🇳