Favorites and Rarities cover

Favorites and Rarities

Don McLean · 1993

144 min · 42 tracks · folk rock

A reflective collection blending heartfelt folk melodies with poignant storytelling and rare gems from a seasoned singer-songwriter.

Why this album works

'Favorites and Rarities' is significant for illuminating McLean's extensive body of work, including tracks that were previously difficult to find. The album contributed to a resurgence of interest in his music during the early '90s, appealing to both long-time fans and new listeners alike.
Best for
reflective moments of nostalgia dynamic journey with peaks heartfelt storytelling and melodies
Context
In 1993, Don McLean was well-established as a leading figure in American folk music, known primarily for his iconic hits like 'American Pie' and 'Vincent'. 'Favorites and Rarities' was released after a decade of less mainstream visibility, serving as a compilation that showcased both beloved tracks and lesser-known works, highlighting the depth of his catalog during this period.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

Disc 1

  • 1 Castles in the Air 2:56
  • 2 And I Love You So Standout 4:18
  • 3 American Pie Standout 8:35
  • 4 Vincent (Starry, Starry Night) Standout 4:01
  • 5 Babylon 1:44
  • 6 Empty Chairs 3:26
  • 7 Dreidel 3:46
  • 8 If We Try 3:34
  • 9 Fool's Paradise 3:51
  • 10 Sitting on Top of the World 1:59
  • 11 La la Love You 3:46
  • 12 Wonderful Baby 2:06
  • 13 Crying in the Chapel 2:21
  • 14 Magdalene Lane 4:06
  • 15 Crying 3:42
  • 16 Since I Don't Have You 2:36
  • 17 Castles in the Air 3:44
  • 18 He's Got You 4:51
  • 19 Superman's Ghost 4:47
  • 20 You Can't Blame the Train 3:05

Disc 2

  • 1 Good Old Wagon 2:24
  • 2 Milkman's Matinee 5:21
  • 3 Aftermath 4:05
  • 4 Mother Nature 6:57
  • 5 Every Day 2:32
  • 6 That's All Right 3:22
  • 7 Profiteering Blues 3:01
  • 8 Hit Parade of Love 2:34
  • 9 The Carnival Is Ended 5:39
  • 10 I'm Blue, I'm Lonesome (Blue and Lonesome Too) 2:14
  • 11 Nature Boy 1:07
  • 12 Black Sheep Boy 2:43
  • 13 Mountains O'Mourne 5:13
  • 14 And Her Mother Came Too 2:44
  • 15 Yonkers Girl 3:05
  • 16 Turkey in the Straw 0:39
  • 17 Dubuque 0:50
  • 18 Medley: Sally Ann / Muleskinner Blues / Old Joe Clark 3:26
  • 19 If We Try 4:00
  • 20 Perfect Love 3:21
  • 21 Little Child 3:04
  • 22 Gotta Make You Mine 3:15

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata