‘American Pie’ singer Don McLean says ‘bye bye’ to NRA performance in wake of Uvalde mass shooting

As America struggles to cope with the slaughter of 19 children and two teachers in Uvalde, Texas, singer-songwriter Don McLean is doing his part: He’s canceled his upcoming performance at this weekend’s National Rifle Association’s (NRA) Annual Leadership Forum.

The man who brought the world “American Pie” is backing out of his Houston appearance out of respect for the American people, the Washington Examiner reports.

“In light of the recent events in Texas, I have decided it would be disrespectful and hurtful for me to perform for the NRA at their convention in Houston this week,” McLean said in a statement.

“I’m sure all the folks planning to attend this event are shocked and sickened by these events as well,” he continued. “After all, we are all Americans. I share the sorrow for this terrible, cruel loss with the rest of the nation.”

The 151st annual “meetings and exhibits” NRA event is set to kick off on Friday at the George R. Brown Convention Center with a speech from former President Donald Trump.

In response to the shooting, the organization published a statement on the event’s home page.

“Our deepest sympathies are with the families and victims involved in this horrific and evil crime,” the NRA said. “On behalf of our members, we salute the courage of school officials, first responders and others who offered their support and services.”

“Although an investigation is underway and facts are still emerging, we recognize this was the act of a lone, deranged criminal,” the statement continues. “As we gather in Houston, we will reflect on these events, pray for the victims, recognize our patriotic members, and pledge to redouble our commitment to making our schools secure.”

In a separate statement, Trump noted the need for “real solutions.”

“America needs real solutions and real leadership in this moment, not politicians and partisanship,” the former President said. “That’s why I will keep my longtime commitment to speak in Texas at the NRA Convention and deliver an important address to America.”

“In the meantime,” said Trump, “we all continue to pray for the victims, their families, and for our entire nation — we are all in this together!”

Well… not all of us. And while McLean may be out of the weekend’s events, few online are impressed with what they see as his well-timed virtue signal.

Much as when Neil Young threatened to pull from Spotify over Joe Rogan’s podcast, many are surprised just to hear McLean is still standing, much less performing for audiences.

“In other words,” declared one user, “Don McLean still alive.”

“I thought he was dead?!” exclaimed another.

“I didn’t know he was still alive!” echoed a third.


While McLean may have said “bye-bye” to the NRA conference, several politicians will be joining Trump in keeping their commitments.

Senator Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Texas Governor Greg Abbott are both scheduled to appear, and Virginia Lieutenant Governor Winsome Earle-Sears (R) will be the keynote speaker at the Women’s Leadership Forum luncheon and auction on Friday.

“Heidi & I are fervently lifting up in prayer the children and families in the horrific shooting in Uvalde,” Cruz tweeted shortly following the shooting. “We are in close contact with local officials, but the precise details are still unfolding. Thank you to heroic law enforcement & first responders for acting so swiftly.”

 

Melissa Fine

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