Don McLean Calls Madonna Remake 'A Gift From A Goddess'

02/15/2000 7:00 AM, Yahoo! Music
Craig Rosen

(2/15/00, 7 a.m. ET) - Don McLean, who penned the classic 1971 song, "American Pie," has offered his thoughts about Madonna's updated version of his song. In a statement issued by Madonna's Maverick Records, McLean said, "Madonna is a colossus in the music industry and she is going to be considered an important historical figure as well. She is a fine singer, a fine songwriter and record producer, and she has the power to guarantee success with any song she chooses to record."

McLean continued, "It is a gift for her to have recorded 'American Pie.' I have heard her version and I think it is sensual and mystical. I also feel that she's chosen autobiographical verses that reflect her career and personal history. I hope it will cause people to ask what's happening to music in America. I have received many gifts from God but this is the first time I have ever received a gift from a goddess."

The Next Best Thing movie soundtrack features Madonna's version of "American Pie" and will be released on Feb. 22. The film -- which stars Madonna, Rupert Everett, and Benjamin Bratt -- arrives in theaters nationwide on March 3.

-- Jason Gelman, New York

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