The special musical opening of Don McLean and Tyson Fury teaming up for a new rendition of “American Pie” has won six Telly awards. The project was initiated by Universal Music Publishing’s Tom Foster, BT Sport’s Head of Music Pete Kelly, and Director Kevin Evans.
The latest iteration of the song sees McLean singing the verses to “American Pie,” perfectly articulating Tyson’s comeback story before he’s joined in the chorus by the Gypsy King himself. The Morecambe-based fighter is no stranger to jumping on the mic, having performed it numerous times in the ring. The song has since become synonymous with the boxer who is not afraid to showcase his musical talent.
“I was knocked out this morning when I heard the news we had just won six Telly awards for the Tyson Fury duet of ‘American Pie,’” says McLean. “This song has so many meanings to so many people. I was thrilled when I learned how much Tyson loved the song. Now, we get to put another check in the win column for this special version.”
In addition, Don will help celebrate Memorial Day on SiriusXM’s The Bridge channel 17 as he hosts “Don McLean Unabridged,” which will premiere on Thursday, May 26 at 1 pm (ET) with rebroadcasts on Friday, May 27 at 8 am and 8 pm (ET), Saturday, May 28 at 10 am and 10 pm (ET), Sunday, May 29 at 6 am and 6 pm (ET), and Monday, May 30 at 1 pm (ET).
uDiscoverMusic recently spoke to McLean, who discussed the 50th anniversary of the song. McLean credits the mysteries of songwriting for the song’s success. He tried his hardest, and it turns out his hardest was more than enough. “Every song that you write you try to do the best you can. I had no idea that something would happen in this realm with ‘American Pie.’” McLean is, after all these years, just grateful for the opportunity to continue pursuing his life’s passion, thanks to the lasting nature of his work and the stars like Tyson Fury who become adopters of his message. “I never thought I’d be around in 50 years,” McLean concludes with a chuckle, before adding, “I certainly never thought I’d be singing in 50 years.”