Donald McLean III, born October 2, 1945, is an influential American singer-songwriter and guitarist, celebrated as the "American Troubadour" and "King of the Trail." He is best known for the iconic 1971 folk rock anthem "American Pie," widely regarded as a cultural landmark. McLean also found success with songs like "Vincent," "Dreidel," "Castles in the Air," and "Wonderful Baby," and is noted for his versions of classics such as "Crying" and "Since I Don't Have You." His songwriting has attracted major artists including Elvis Presley and Perry Como, who have recorded his piece "And I Love You So." McLean’s work spans folk rock, easy listening, and country, earning him induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2004.