LEGENDARY singer-songwriter Don McLean is coming to Middlesbrough Town Hall this summer. The folk-rock icon is set to perform a one-off North-East concert this summer when he rolls into Teesside as part of his current transatlantic tour.

McLean – responsible for timeless classic American Pie – will head to Middlesbrough Town Hall on Thursday, August 29, representing a major coup for the region.

With more than 40 gold and platinum records worldwide, McLean is one of America’s most beloved artists and is widely regarded as one of the most prolific songwriters of all time.

Since first hitting the charts in 1971, the New York-born star continues to inspire and has seen his songs performed by artists as diverse as Madonna, Fred Astaire, Chet Atkins, Weird Al Yankovic, Elvis Presley, Josh Groban and Coolio.

Having received global acclaim for his recently released nineteenth studio album, Botanical Gardens, he is back on the road again.

Alongside new material, the show promises a slew of classics from a remarkable back catalogue including American Pie and other hits such as Crying, Vincent (Starry Night), Castles in the Air and And I Love You So.

Speaking about his forthcoming show on Teesside, McLean said: “I am always excited about returning to England.

“It’s like a second home to me and has been for 50 years. I’ve toured every highway and byway and I’ve loved it all.

“At this point in my career, I tour with a four-piece group from Nashville who have been with me for many years.

“Those looking to see how we sound need only look us up at Glastonbury on YouTube or Stagecoach, two of the biggest festivals in the world, which we headlined.

“I’m looking forward to seeing you all very soon at Middlesbrough.”

Lorna Fulton, head of Middlesbrough Town Hall, said: “Don McLean’s songs have formed the soundtrack to the lives of so many of us and we’re honoured to be able to have him here in our beautiful main hall as part of our ambitious summer programme.

“Don is only playing two UK dates on this tour and we’re delighted one of them will be happening here in Middlesbrough.

“We’re committed to providing first-class live entertainment at the Town Hall and they don’t come much bigger than Don.

“This is a chance to see a true music legend, with a staggering song-writing pedigree in action.

“For fans of his music and of the man, this one not to be missed and we’re confident people of all ages will see something truly memorable in August.

“If people want to attend the show, we encourage them to think quick as we don’t expect tickets to stick around for too long!”

  • Don McLean, Middlesbrough Town Hall, Thursday, August 29. Tickets £37.50 (subject to booking fee). To book visit www.middlesbroughtownhall.co.uk or call the Box Office on 01642 729 729
  • Children below the age of 14 must be accompanied by an adult.