The renowned singer-songwriter, Don McLean, known for his timeless hit “American Pie,” has once again captured the spotlight by criticizing Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex.
In a recent interview with the Daily Mail, McLean voiced his disappointment with Harry’s remarks concerning Elvis Presley’s Graceland Mansion and his apparent lack of appreciation for American culture.
The feud between McLean and Harry traces back to the release of Harry’s memoir, “Spare.”
Within the pages of the book, Harry launched a series of critiques against the royal family, delving into his personal experiences and reflections.
Among his criticisms was Harry’s visit to Graceland, where he described the historic mansion as dim and confining, even going as far as questioning the interior design choices, suggesting they were influenced by psychedelic substances.
Responding swiftly to Harry’s comments on social media, McLean expressed his outrage and defended the legacy of Elvis Presley.
Taking to Twitter, the singer-songwriter urged Harry to refrain from commenting on Graceland and Elvis, portraying him as a delicate flower and a mere spectacle who had not achieved anything of significant value.
In his recent interview, McLean reinforced his firm stance against Harry’s statements and elaborated on his disapproval.
He argued that Harry fails to comprehend the importance of Elvis and his enduring impact on American culture.
Emphasizing that Elvis, often hailed as the King, rose from poverty to become one of the most influential musicians in history, McLean pointed out that Harry’s comparison of Graceland to Buckingham Palace misses the essence of Elvis’s home, symbolizing the quintessential American dream.
Furthermore, McLean underscored the significance of showing respect and gratitude while residing as a guest in another nation.
He highlighted that Harry, as a member of the British royal family who relocated to the United States, should avoid criticizing America and its cultural icons.
McLean’s remarks allude to the controversy surrounding Harry and Meghan Markle’s decision to depart from the United Kingdom and establish their primary residence in America.
Recently, documentation for Travelist, Harry’s sustainable travel initiative, surfaced, revealing that the couple’s official relocation to America was retroactively dated to June 2023, coinciding with their departure from Frogmore Cottage, their former UK residence.
The disclosure of the backdated paperwork sparked further discussions, prompting inquiries into the couple’s motives and dedication to their new homeland.
Don McLean’s scathing comments regarding Prince Harry’s opinions on Graceland and his perceived lack of understanding of America have reignited the ongoing clash between the esteemed singer-songwriter and the Duke of Sussex.
McLean’s defense of Elvis Presley’s legacy and his critique of Harry’s conduct as a guest in America have resonated with his supporters and individuals who value cultural acknowledgment and respect.
The latest exchange between McLean and Harry raises questions about whether it will escalate into more public disputes or gradually fade away.
Nonetheless, it underscores the persistent challenges faced by individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds in comprehending and respecting each other’s viewpoints.