However, the overall theme of the song is the loss of innocence of the early rock and roll generation as symbolized by the plane crash which claimed the lives of three of its heroes. The meaning of the other lyrics has long been debated, and for decades, McLean declined to explain the symbolism behind the many characters and events mentioned. In fact, the accident was unknown until McLean’s song became a hit. The repeatedly mentioned phrase “the day the music died” refers to the plane crash in 1959 which killed early rock and roll performers Buddy Holly, The Big Bopper, and Ritchie Valens. 1 in several countries including the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia. A condensed version of the song was covered by Madonna in 2000. 5 song on the RIAA project Songs of the Century. In addition, the song was listed as the No. Moreover, the reissue in 1991 reached No. Also, it topped the charts in Australia, Canada, and New Zealand. The single became No.1 in the US hit for four weeks in 1972. The Song…ĭon McLean penned, recorded, and released the song on his “American Pie” album in 1971. Instead, it’s the in-depth meaning which stirs debate and affects the people’s thoughts of yesterday, today, and tomorrow. But the most thought-provoking part is not about its lyrics’ longevity. With this, it made history in the music industry specifically in country music. It is said that “American Pie” is one of the most extended songs ever penned. These included the moon landings, Dylan’s rise and crash, the dominance of The Beatles, and the death of Janis Joplin.

McLean explored many of the significant events of the 60s. Also, it discusses the 1959 plane crash that led to the death of Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and The Big Bopper. The song “American Pie,” “the day the music died” tackles the evolution of rock and roll through the 60s.

American pie the song