The Power of Pain: Don McLean on the Essential Ingredient for Good Songwriting

Music legend Don McLean believes that pain is a necessary fuel for songwriting. "If you're not hurting, you're no good as a songwriter," he says, explaining that personal struggles provide the raw emotion and relatability that make songs truly resonate with listeners.

Throughout his illustrious career, singer-songwriter Don McLean has learned that true songwriting requires a touch of adversity. "There's a lot of pain if you want to be a songwriter," he says, reflecting on the loss of his father at the age of 15. "If you're not hurting, you're no good as a songwriter. If everything works out perfect for you, you've got nothing to say."

McLean understands the struggles that many people face in life, including drug addiction, financial hardships, and relationship breakdowns. He believes that music can provide solace and connection for those who are struggling, and that songwriters can relate to their experiences through their own pain.

"People who are struggling want to find some harmony with your music so that they can feel that you understand them a little, and I do. I've been there," he says.

McLean's latest album, "American Boys," is a testament to his ability to capture the human experience in his music. The title track celebrates the American spirit of creativity and innovation, while other songs explore themes of love, loss, and perseverance.

"I've found magic in the guitar and the banjo and rock and roll, in folk music and records," he says. "Sometimes I found magic with women, you know? And I have a wonderful time. But then sometimes that would go bad, you know? And I write about it."

McLean acknowledges that his personal experiences have shaped his songwriting. He credits his girlfriend, Paris Dylan, as the inspiration for the song "Mexicali Girl," which celebrates her unwavering support.

"She is better to me, I think, than anybody I've ever known," he says. "She's a very pure-hearted person."

Despite his age, McLean remains passionate about connecting with audiences through his music. He is grateful for the support he has received over the years and believes that his songs are a reflection of the shared human condition.

"I respect the fact that they will spend money – I mean, millions and millions and millions of people have spent money to hear me sing, you know, over 50 years. That's an amazing [thing]," he says. "I give them everything I have."

In addition to his music career, McLean is also dedicated to helping others. He established the Don McLean Foundation to support homeless shelters and soup kitchens throughout the United States.

"I'm going to send money every year to people, individuals who care, who are running homeless shelters and soup kitchens," he says. "Recently, I sent money to a place in Long Island, to take care of some of the migrant workers that work there who had been sort of put out in the cold, and they have to sleep in the woods. I read a story about that, and I had the foundation send $10,000 to them."

McLean's message is clear: pain can be a powerful force for good, both in art and in life. Through his music and philanthropic efforts, he continues to inspire others and make a difference in the world.