Don McLean is tipping his hat to Taylor Swift after she broke the record he set on the Billboard Hot 100 almost 50 years ago.
Since 1972, McLean's eight-minute and 34-second classic "American Pie (Parts I & II)" held the title for the lengthiest song to hit No. 1.
MORE: Taylor Swift's re-recorded 'All Too Well' debuts atop Billboard Hot 100Well, that longstanding record was broken this week when Swift's 10-minute and 13-second song, "All Too Well," bowed atop the Hot 100.
I’m so proud of this song and the memories I have with you guys because of it. You truly chose this one and now you did THIS?! I’m floored. A ten minute song is at the top of the Hot 100.🤯
— Taylor Swift (@taylorswift13) November 22, 2021
"There is something to be said for a great song that has staying power," 76-year-old McLean said in a statement to ABC Audio.
"'American Pie' remained on top for 50 years and now Taylor Swift has unseated such a historic piece of artistry," his statement continued. "Let’s face it, nobody ever wants to lose that #1 spot, but if I had to lose it to somebody, I sure am glad it was another great singer/songwriter such as Taylor."
MORE: Taylor Swift releases new Blake Lively-directed music videoSwift's 10-minute-plus recording of "All Too Well" is featured as a bonus track on "Red (Taylor's Version)," which she released Nov. 12.
