McLean Praises Madonna's "American Pie"

By Sushuma February 17, 2000 10:29 AM

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Los Angeles - While music purists may snub Madonna's remake of "American Pie," the original songwriter says he likes it.?"I have heard her version and I think it is sensual and mystical," Don McLean says.?"I also feel that she's chosen autobiographical verses that reflect her career and personal history." Madonna jazzed up the 1971 classic with an electronic dance beat and distant background vocals from actor Rupert Everett.?Madonna and Everett star in the upcoming dramatic comedy The Next Best Thing.?"American Pie" is on the soundtrack.?She also cut more than three-and-a-half minutes from McLean's original eight-and-a-half-minute homage to Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens and the Big Bopper.?"I hope it will cause people to ask what's happening to music in America," McLean says.?"I have received many gifts from God but this is the first time I have ever received a gift from a goddess."

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RE: McLean Praises Madonna's   reply

Posted by A random shemp (No Email) on February 17, 2000 5:25 PM

I've gotta say, this remake is unbelievably lame. I don't know about any of you, but I thought most of McLean's song was rather nonsensical, but the rythym of the words made the song work. Madonna's totally futzed with tempo, taking her time with the lyrics, like there's some kind of hidden meaning she's trying to emphasize. WTH? Don's just happy he's been able to cash in on the song one last time.

They're both good...   reply

Posted by A random shemp (No Email) on July 29, 2002 12:07 PM

I think it's wrong to say that Madonna's version is bad, or that it is better than Don's.  They both have their good points.  I like Don's for the classicness and meaning and I enjoy Madonna's version for easy listening and dancing.  I enjoy both Don's and Madonna's music.  They are both Great artists and I appreciate their music.