Following the release of his new album ‘Botanical Gardens’, prolific American songwriter and performer Don McLean has announced a 14-date UK tour with support from Nashville star, Jarrod Dickenson.
With over 40 gold and platinum records worldwide, Don McLean is one of America’s most beloved country artists. Botanical Gardens’, his 19th studio album and first in 8 years, is arguably one of Don’s most reflective to date.
“The inspiration for the project started years ago when I would walk in the beautiful gardens in Sydney Australia near the Opera House,” says Don, “ I would dream young dreams and it was a comfort and an inspiration. I was always young inside, like we all are, and I felt it again there.”
In nearly 50 years on the scene, Don’s songs have become a staple in Americana music. His music has been performed by artists as diverse as Elvis Presley, Madonna, Fred Astaire, Chet Atkins, Weird Al Yankovick, George Michael, Josh Groban, Coolio and Ed Sheeran and his biggest hit ‘American Pie’ was recognised with high honours by being inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2003.
Jarrod Dickenson will support Don McLean for his Cardiff show at Wales Millennium Centre’s Donald Gordon Theatre. Photo: Josh Wool
Re-joining Don on tour by request of the legend himself is Jarrod Dickenson. The Nashville based, Texas born musician who has already supported legendary artists, Bonnie Raitt, The Waterboys, Jools Holland, The Stylistics and The White Buffalo.
Storytelling is something of a Texas tradition. Tall hats and even taller tales are woven into the fabric of The Lone Star State, and singer-songwriter, Jarrod Dickenson can spin a yarn with the best of them. Hailing from Waco, Jarrod spends most of his time on the road bringing his own particular brand of soulful Americana to a wide variety of music loving audiences around the globe.
“I was humbled and honoured to be invited to open for the legendary Don McLean once again,” says Jarrod, “His contribution to popular music and the craft of song writing can’t be overstated, and to be able to watch a master at work every night for 32 nights, is an opportunity like no other. I’m excited to sing my songs to these music-loving audiences in some of the most stunning rooms across the UK and Ireland and will be trying to learn as much as I can from Don and his incredible band in the process. It’s going to be a fun ride.”
- Catch Don McLean on his Botanical Gardens UK & IRELAND tour at the Donald Gordon Theatre, Wales Millennium Centre Cardiff on May 6.