Don’t Forget Ritchie, and the Big Bopper…

There is of course much interest in the upcoming 50th anniversary of the Winter Dance Party and as it should be. It was a monumentally tragic day in the history of rock and roll and deserves special attention. The one thing I have noticed though is a few shows, tributes, and articles sometimes overlook or give short shrift to all involved. I happened to see a press release recently stating that an evening of entertainment planned coinciding with the 5oth anniversary was a celebration of the music of Buddy Holly and his influence on current music icons. No mention of Ritchie Valens contributions nor the Big Boppers. I am not arguing who out of the three was more “important” musically or historically so far but state that all three in my mind had a vast and lasting effect on rock and roll as we know it and come this Jan/Feb 2009 all three should be equally remembered and honored in any presentation whether print, concert or film. Here’s to all three and their lasting legacy and memory. Rave on Charles Hardin Holley, Richard Steven Valenzuela and Jiles Perry Richardson!