Author: Bill Graham
On February 3, 1959, Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, J.P. “The Big Bopper” Richardson, and pilot Roger Peterson died in a plane crash after a performance in Iowa. Their deaths left a lasting impact on those close to them. Family, friends, and bandmates carried the weight of grief and regret for years. While the tragedy marked a turning point for rock and roll, the music and memory of these young stars endured, shaping the future of the genre in ways no one could have predicted.
As news of the tragic plane crash spread, the Winter Dance Party tour continued in the shadow of loss. From confusion over who was on the flight to the emotional toll on those left behind, the show had to go on. But for many, the music would never be the same.
The stars of the Winter Dance Party took the stage at the Surf Ballroom, unaware that for some, it would be their final performance. Amid the tour’s hardships, a decision was made that would change rock ‘n’ roll history forever—setting the stage for a fateful flight.
Part Two of our series on ‘The Day the Music Died’ dives into the grueling 1959 Winter Dance Party tour, where Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and others battled freezing temperatures, breakdowns, and exhaustion.
On the morning of February 3, 1959, a tragic plane crash claimed the lives of Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, J.P. Richardson, and pilot Roger Peterson. Known as The Day the Music Died, the crash left a lasting impact. In this first part of the series, we reflect on the events leading up to that fateful flight, tracing Buddy Holly’s decision to part ways with his manager and embark on a tour that would change everything.
Corky Siegel reflects on his 60-year journey of merging blues with symphony, from his early days playing with blues legends in Chicago to pioneering symphonic blues collaborations with the Chicago Symphony. In this interview, he also shares the creative process behind his latest work, ‘Symphonic Blues No. 6,’ and how his music continues to evolve while staying true to his roots.
Madfish Music announces Laura Nyro’s ‘Hear My Song – The Collection 1966-1995,’ a deluxe 19-CD box set, releasing December 6, 2024. This limited edition set includes all 10 studio albums, six live albums (with two previously unreleased concerts), Nyro’s original 1966 demo tape, and rare bonus material.
Featuring in-depth liner notes, a foreword by Sir Elton John, and testimonials from music legends, the collection celebrates Nyro’s groundbreaking artistry and lasting influence on music.
A wonderful world indeed. And Thanksgiving Day is a perfect time to be grateful for it.
Rain in song often symbolizes more than just weather; it sets moods, evokes emotions, and reflects life’s ups and downs. From Gordon Lightfoot’s melancholy “Early Morning Rain” to Eddie Rabbit’s hopeful “I Love a Rainy Night,” we explore how artists use rain to express everything from sadness and longing to freedom and renewal.
His most important contribution to the music community is as an educator. He founded Chicago’s Old Town School of Folk Music in 1957 along with Win Stracke and Dawn Greening. Hamilton taught guitar and banjo and served as unofficial dean. Artists including Pete Seeger, Odetta, Doc Watson, and Bill Monroe performed at the school in its early years.