The Day the Music Died | Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, Big Bopper Crash Site, Surf Ballroom, & Runway

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On Feb. 3, 1959, the careers of three American music legends were unfortunately cut short as a plane carrying Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens and J.P. Richardson (a.k.a The Big Bopper) crashed in Clear Lake, Iowa.
The three were on the Winter Dance Party Tour that began in Milwaukee, Wisc., on Jan. 23, 1959.
The tour started off with failing logistics due to excessive travel and terrible winter conditions that year. The unheated tour bus broke down and Holly’s drummer Carl Bunch was hospitalized due to frostbite in his foot.
Prior to the tour, Holly had just founded a new backing band with Bunch, Tommy Allsup on guitar, and Waylon Jennings on bass after ending his relationship with The Crickets. On Monday, February 2, the tour arrived in Clear Lake, west of Mason City, having driven 350 miles (560 km) from the previous day's concert in Green Bay, Wisconsin. The next scheduled destination after Clear Lake was Moorhead, Minnesota, a 365-mile (590 km) drive north-northwest-and, as a reflection of the poor quality of the tour planning, a journey that would have taken them directly back through the two towns they had already played within the last week. No let-up after that was in sight, as the following day after having traveled from Iowa to Minnesota, they were scheduled to travel right back to Iowa. Holly chartered a plane to fly himself and his band to Fargo, North Dakota, which is adjacent to Moorhead.
Allsup and Jennings never got on the plane. Allsup and Valens flipped a coin to see who would get a seat on the small plane. Valens called heads and won and Allsup took the bus. Jennings gave up his seat for Richardson, who felt that as a large-sized man, would feel uncomfortable on the bus.
Jennings took the bus. The pilot, Roger Peterson, was not certified to fly by instruments only, yet proceeded to take off in inclement weather. The plane crashed in Clear Lake the day they were scheduled to perform. There were no survivors.
Holly, who’s recognized as one of the most innovative musicians in rock history, was only 22 at the time of his death. The tragedy later referred to by Don McLean as "The Day the Music Died" in his song "American Pie".
Charles Hardin Holley (September 7, 1936 - February 3, 1959), known as Buddy Holly, was an American singer and songwriter who was a central and pioneering figure of mid-1950s rock and roll. He was born to a musical family in Lubbock, Texas during the Great Depression, and learned to play guitar and sing alongside his siblings. His style was influenced by gospel music, country music, and rhythm and blues acts, which he performed in Lubbock with his friends from high school.
During his short career, Holly wrote and recorded many songs. He is often regarded as the artist who defined the traditional rock-and-roll lineup of two guitars, bass, and drums. He was a major influence on later popular music artists, including Bob Dylan, The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Eric Clapton, The Hollies (who named themselves in his honor), Elvis Costello, Dave Edmunds, Marshall Crenshaw, and Elton John. He was among the first artists inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, in 1986. Rolling Stone magazine ranked him number 13 in its list of "100 Greatest Artists." His top songs include “Peggy Sue”, “That’ll Be the Day”, and “Rave On.”
Richard Steven Valenzuela (May 13, 1941 - February 3, 1959), known professionally as Ritchie Valens, was an American guitarist, singer and songwriter. A rock and roll pioneer and a forefather of the Chicano rock movement, Valens had several hits, most notably "La Bamba", which he had adapted from a Mexican folk song. Valens transformed the song into one with a rock rhythm and beat, and it became a hit in 1958, making Valens a pioneer of the Spanish-speaking rock and roll movement. He also had an American number-two hit with "Donna".
Jiles Perry "J.P." Richardson Jr. (October 24, 1930 - February 3, 1959), known as The Big Bopper, was an American singer, songwriter and disc jockey. His best-known compositions include "Chantilly Lace" and "White Lightning", the latter of which became George Jones' first number-one hit in 1959.

[@natashafarley414]

Dang, Scott. This is one of your best videos. The ballroom is so well preserved it’s like stepping into the past. All the details and your coverage of it all makes this a must watch. You just feel the loss and it’s quite emotional. Great job.

[@SCOTTONTAPE]

Thank you Natasha!

[@MARLONdaman]

Scott has improved on his videos dramatically. It takes a bold person to go out to a graveyard by themself and do videos of the deceased. My nerves would be on edge. NOT I SAITH THE C! 😮😂😂😆😆🤣🤣🤣

[@MARLONdaman]

I wonder if Clear Lake has a preservation group you can donate to for the SURF BALLROOM! I think it has to be declared a historic site federally or/and locally through the state of Iowa.

[@GetBentMusic0]

And the saddest thing is the biggest mistake of the rock ‘n’ roll Hall of Fame the big bopper is not in it Ritchie and Buddy are but not the big bopper

[@GetBentMusic0]

It’s hard to believe Buddy Holly’s brother just died at 96 he’s finally with his brother

[@jasonshiers5771]

Unbelievable to think Richie was 17 when he died. For a young man he left an amazing impression in he’s short life.

[@splashenful]

What I find sad is that to date, there has bee no movie story made about the Big Bopper.

[@jasonshiers5771]

@@splashenful , true he’s grave was exhumed a while back as there were stories that he was shot on the flight and that caused the crash. This was after a gun was found in the field. There’s a video on YT somewhere

[@BeingMe23]

He was 22 when he died

[@jasonshiers5771]

@@BeingMe23 , The Big Bopper?

[@splashenful]

@@jasonshiers5771 I heard the Big Bopper was about 28 years old. Richie Valens was only 17 years.

[@jayweiss4378]

La Bamba 1987 movie ... Bob screams "Ritchie" and you see Bob trying to catch Ritchie who is running up a hill..... and also that part just before that where his mom says "Not my Ritchie" ... (that makes you so emotional)

[@flocosta]

This was not just the day the music died but also the day that time stood still by the looks of this iconic hall. It's kind of eerie but in a beautiful way. You can almost hear the music playing as you step through the door and back in time. Incredible video, Scott, but I've never seen anything less than that from you.

[@SCOTTONTAPE]

Thank you Flo! Definitely it’s stuck in time and the music they play in the ballroom is all circa 50s. Yet so quiet. A very somber place

[@MARLONdaman]

My thing was after all these years was why hasn’t there been any major upgrades to that building. That stage should look way better than what it looks now!

[@Midwestkiddoc203]

The focus has been on restoration as it is one of the last surviving ballrooms in the US. Necessary upgrades have been done, but most artists I’ve spoken to over the years like the idea of standing on historic ground. Musicians of all genres have commented on feeling that connection to music history.❤

[@morgankassner5428]

When I first saw it I could hear the music playing ❤

[@astravanmk2]

JP Richardson wrote “White Lightning” for George Jones. I spent all my childhood listening to Buddy, Ritchie and the bopper despite not been born until ‘85. I have my parents to thank.

[@hollywoodjoe123]

HELLO FROM HOLLYWOOD JOE

[@juliewessels4045]

My mom was a senior in high school when this happened. She told me that everyone was crying and going crazy, they just couldn't believe it!😥😥

[@hollywoodjoe123]

HELLO FROM HOLLYWOOD JOE

[@travisjohnson5747]

My uncle went to that show....I live only a couple of miles from the crash site. The Surf Ballroom is a real treasure and I go to a couple of shows every year👍

[@Lizz9902]

33:21 the wind 🌬 blows as it caries the hint of their music 🎶 the sound of their voices among the fields 🤍🖤🤍🖤🎶🎶

[@nicolecorriedemaio]

The movie La Bamba really saddened me,especially the ending when his mom learned of Ritchie's passing. This is so sad. What could've been had they not crashed. Buddy Holly was a musical genius, he made great songs. Great video,Scott. RIP to Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and JP Richardson (Big Bopper)

[@MongoLloyd-px7jt]

I thought it was funny.

[@kevinmalone3210]

La Bamba was excellent. Lou Diamond Phillips put in a good performance playing Valens.

[@lindadonahue9279]

I am still a huge fan of 50s music. This was a major loss. Richie was set to blow the roof off rock music. Sadly gone at only 17, his true talent was never shown. Buddy Holly's influence is still evident today. And The Big Bopper was just a fun act! Thank you, Scott!

[@BeingMe23]

He died when he was 22.

[@lindadonahue9279]

@@BeingMe23 Born May 13, 1941 and died Feb 3, 1959. He had not yet reached his 18th birthday.

[@dermot2747]

So thoughtful of you to leave a stone for the pilot too. They were all human beings who lived once and were loved.

[@maryblaufuss7533]

The wives of the three married men on the plane were all pregnant. Holy cr*p I just realized that now.

[@lisabarnes2477]

3 absolutely incredible artist taken waaay too soon. They all had such an incredible future ahead of them. Such a tragic ending to them all. Glad the surf ballroom still is active and keeps their memories alive

[@hollywoodjoe123]

HELLO FROM HOLLYWOOD JOE

[@janadeubner9883]

Wow Scott! I was a toddler when the crash happened, so I don't remember when I heard about these young men. When I watched LaBamba movie was my first recollection of them. It is heartbreaking and sickening to see these covered dead bodies and know who they were. Surf Ballroom must have been the place to play looking at all the performers that played there from big band era to now. I appreciate how they still honor the deceased trio. Many tears. It makes you wonder how far they would have gone had they not gotten on that plane. Thank you, Scotty.

[@jaylene.turner6524]

One of the many sad stories in music history. May they all rest in eternal peace. I discovered Buddy and the rest by the 1978 Buddy Holly movie. I also covered some of his songs.

[@PJ-24]

Hi Scott…I recently found you channel and I love it. You are so informative, respectful, and you show much love to this history. I was born in Lubbock, TX and still live here. I was 2 years old when Buddy died. He is very loved here, in his hometown of Lubbock. We have an outstanding Buddy Holly museum, a memorial and he, of courses, is buried here. Many, many stars come through here simply because of Buddy. Elton played the first concert in our arena, the USA in 2000, then again in 2010. Paul McCartney is a big supporter of all things Buddy, including visiting the cemetery a few years ago when he performed at the USA in 2014. The $158 million dollar Buddy Holly Hall of the Performing Arts was opened in January 2021. Not sure if Lubbock is on your radar, but we have a bit of music history for a small town in West Texas. We are also the home of Mac Davis, who is buried in the same cemetery as Buddy. Yes, buried in his blue jeans. Anyway….thanks for a wonderful channel. Best regards!

[@mistyhall001]

I've seen lots of documentaries and other creators cover this tragic situation but the way you told this story is incredible and on another level. Thank you for honoring them and keeping their legacy alive for newer generations to learn. The music is NOT dead in 2023!!!

[@LoneRanger5150]

I knew if I waited, you'd make it here. Oh, what could have been.... You missed the payphone where Buddy made his last call. It gives me chills. All three signed that back wall. Because of this, the law was enacted that families be notified first. Not fade away.

[@NikkiPiskorowski83]

How horrible Richie’s Mother and family had to hear of his death Over the radio 😢 Thank you for the video Scott! Makes my heart so sad everytime I hear of it. 😭 I watch everything of yours, and I’m always wanting more lol.

[@laurastrobel718]

This was epic Scott, you put so much love into it. I've never seen the Surf Ballroom, what a fantastic place, especially for music buffs. Thanks for showing some of the belongings. My parents were teens during the 50s so this was their music. Buddy was reintroduced to my generation via the film The Buddy Holly Story starring Gary Busy, and later La Bamba staring Lou Diamond Phillips. One of the Crickets died recently. Thanks again Scott, Rave On 🤓 RIP Buddy, Richie, JP and Roger 🌄❤️🌹🕊️🌈

[@BrandonPGeneral]

My Mom took me to see La Bamba in the theater when it came out. That was my introduction to Ritchie, Buddy and The Bopper… My Uncle was the music guru in my family and he had all the old records for me to discover their music, I saw Ritchie’s only film appearance in Go Johnny Go at his house on VHS. I’ve been a lifelong fan ever since. I was always fascinated by their death and that location. In 2009, I was lucky enough to visit the Surf and the crash site. And I’ll tell you, it was a moving, and almost religious experience for me. At least what I can imagine a religious experience to be. Thank you for doing this and sharing this most hollowed of grounds with your fans.

[@judyharris7795]

I visited the crash site in September 2021. I remember walking that path with no sounds but the wind, the rattle of the corn stalks, and the occasional cawing of a crow In the distance. It was a very moving visit. Thanks for producing this video.

[@C.M.S.recordingsstudio]

Buddy Holly was a genius man. He wanted to make his own music. 3 icons ✨️ we lost way to soon.. They say Waylon Jennings never got over the coin flip moment.. Just because what he said to Buddy just before he got in to the plane. By the way some amazing Gibson guitars they have there I didn't know that. Thanks Scott for taking us with you!

[@OtelliSandrina]

The coin flip concerned Tommy Alsup and Ritchie not Waylon...

[@mcflyy263]

Great video man! And fun fact buddy's wife always had nightmares of buddy dying in a plane crash, so when he got the plan he didnt wanna tell her cuz he knew she would worry..and sadly she was right 😢

[@adamrivera2499]

Richie was 17 still blows my mind wat a talent he was buddy Holly as well

[@amberrae8415]

Hi Scott..love the video..to me this is one of the saddest days in rock history..just so heart breaking…all of the ‘what if’s’…they were so young and talented and definitely rock and roll legends..this is definitely a destination I need to make in my life time..anyone reading this I hope you’re having a great day and keep on rocking on 🤘❤️🤘

[@stevevalley2784]

Thank You & you have a great day yourself.

[@amberrae8415]

@@stevevalley2784 aww thank you 😊

[@debbiedunn8600]

I was 4 years old when this happened, but I remember how much my Mother talked about it. Scott thank you for taking us with you on this trip and thank you for the kindness you always show. You are kind and gentle soul. May you always be blessed. Much love

[@peppipea104]

I REALLY like the fact that you show THE actual city-like some parts of the city to which subject that you talk about so that we have some idea of what the city, where such happened- looks like.

[@charlottepannhoff1478]

Its wonderful you did this .Being from here we dont realize how much this place means to everyone else.The dance party was this last weekend they do it every year.

[@SCOTTONTAPE]

I absolutely love your town!

[@joyleenpoortier7496]

The plane came to rest at the fence but the actual crash site is further over in the field. RIP to the 4 lives that was lost that fateful night.

[@suehurrell134]

Our mums must have been seperated at birth Scott! Same as you I grew up listening too and surrounded by their music. I still have the original 45s my mum cherished. She also loved the musicals and I have the programmes to all the performances. I don't remember ever not knowing about the mighty 3 and the terrible way they died. I am pleased you mentioned the pilot too. My mum is no longer with us so I hope shes bopping away somewhere with the boys ❤RIP

[@SCOTTONTAPE]

I hope your mum is up there dancing away 😊

[@suehurrell134]

@@SCOTTONTAPE Aww thanks😍Happy trails in 2023

[@cfhcowboy9292]

They need to keep this place as it Is forever In memory of these three young men who lost their life's that snowy night

[@denischabriddell986]

Hi Scott Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens,and Big Bopper were so talented. What a tragic story. My heart goes out to the pilots family as well. I've watched so many stories done on them. You did a beautiful job telling their story.

[@roxannemoser]

Scott, the respect you show the living and the dead is remarkable. This world is a better place because of you!

[@VeliusCoba]

Congratulations Scott, You now have completed my list of KZbinr's who have covered this tragic event In music history, All the way down to Waylon's life long battle with regret. I'm not even done watching and I'm gonna say phenomenal class work man. This Is damn beautiful. Thank you for presenting this.

[@VeliusCoba]

Actually It was snowing fairly heavily but they though It was good enough to clear for takeoff. It wasn't crisp clear, There was a little bit flakes falling. Ive seen takeoff video somewhere, Might have been one of the documentary's.

[@timothyforsythe3155]

Waylon felt guilty all his life for telling Buddy I hope your plane crashes. It was a joke just the same as saying break a leg. Buddy and Waylon were friends. Who would have every thought the plane would go down. I think Waylon felt guilty he survived. As fate has it we had years of great music from Waylon Jennings. "Just good ole boys never meaning no harm" lol R.I.P. Waylon and all that lost their lives that day in 59 in that terrible crash.

[@VeliusCoba]

@@timothyforsythe3155 Beats all you never saw Been in trouble with the law since the day they was born

[@jerseygirlinvermont]

Fantastic work on this video! Strangely enough, my friend and I were discussing this terrible crash just last week. Now here you are! I think I felt so badly for Ritchie Valens family because they found out they lost their son via radio broadcast. He was really just a young kid who was about to explode onto the rock and roll music scene. It’s important to remember that 4 lives were lost that day because the pilot was killed as well. I like the way they marked the trail with the huge set of glasses. It’s perfect if you’re looking for that trail. The memorial there to all four of them is absolutely beautiful. This all occurred several years before I was born, but the story has always interested me. I have a fantastic interest in many genres of music so that’s why I know about the men and their music.

[@davidtemple6147]

all that talent gone so tragically in one small plane . what could of been from them 3 artists . rip all 4 lost souls . very eerie sight i would imagine scott . thanks for filming it buddy .

[@nickyinflorida]

What a fascinating video. The Surf Ballroom looks like it has been frozen in time. The crash site is hallowed ground & glad to know visitors are allowed. Always appreciate the extra time you spend on locations like these that many of use feel an emotional/personal connection to. Take care.

[@captainkvjhouseofrandom662]

Same as a kid my mom had a record of RITCHIE VALENS AND I REMEMBER MY MOM TOOK ME TO SEE THE MOVIE LA BAMBA and from that day it was a wrap I was hooked. RIP BUDDY HOLLY, RITCHIE VALENS, BIG BOPPER. THANK YOU MY FRIEND FOR THIS GREAT VIDEO.

[@suz871]

This was such a great video and a beautiful tribute to Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, Big Bopper & their airplane pilot. The Surf Ballroom is its own little version of the RRHOF. So much history inside! Your filming and commentary on the history and memorabilia inside the ballroom, along with your visit to the crash site, gave me the feeling of actually being there. My parents listened to all three artists but I had become most familiar with the music of Buddy Holly. My parents took me and my brother to see “The Buddy Holly Story” in 1978. Even though I enjoyed his music, I had pretty low expectations of the movie because I was really young but ended up loving it. It’s a nice memory I haven’t thought about in years. Thanks so much for making this video! I love all of your videos but I can definitely add this one to my list of favorites.

[@maryblaufuss7533]

"The Buddy Holly Story" movie is shamelessly full of inaccuracies. You can find "The Real Buddy Holly Story" documentary, hosted by Sir Paul McCartney, right here on You Tube. It was filmed quite a while ago now, but you'll enjoy it...

[@robertjames7389]

Ironically my first experiences of buddy’s music was seeing Buddy - The Buddy Holly Story in London’s west end 🤩 I have seen it 5 times over the years! I think a new decent biopic needs to be made of Buddy’s life and times! 😊 As a teenager I would buy his music on record,cassette tape,then cd. A very experimental artiste, whose lyrics were so catchy on the ear! Wonderful!!! May the music live on 🙌🏻 Thank you Buddy,Ritchie and The Bopper. Thanks for the video Scott! 🤝And here’s to all us fans that continue to enjoy the music of that amazing era! ❤️

[@crazeeeegirl]

Oh wow Scott. One of your best. You had me in tears. I dont think I have ever seen that picture with Buddy and Ritchie laying there on the ground. If I have, it didnt register with me that it was them. So brilliantly done Scott. RIP Buddy, Ritchie, JP and Roger. Gone but never forgotten 💔

[@SCOTTONTAPE]

Thank you so much

[@erinbedard6374]

So sad how young they all were. Richie Valens only 17. There music will live on. Thank you for doing this video.

[@Bohemian76]

Thank you Scott for this wonderfully beautiful video. This is Tash from the 🇬🇧 who’s doesn’t comment but has now twice ☺️ . I was honored and privileged to grow up with a grandad who was a professional singer. And he played all three of these iconic artists music. I’m the same age as you too and think we were exposed to so much musical history through film and remember watching la bamba and buddy Holly story. We are so blessed to live in an era where we can listen to their music instantly. Their music will live forever... Thank you again Scott. ☮️💜🎼✨

[@SCOTTONTAPE]

And thank you for watching Tash! Make sure you keep leaving comments !!

[@CCcastro336]

Oh my gosh such a good video! in memory of all of them! I love the 50s everything about it the music. I grew up, listening to all the songs rest in peace to them all 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽they were so young. And the ballroom wow it’s like stepping back into time so cool.

[@angelaw.325]

Lots of 50’s music courtesy of my mother, she was an OG Elvis fan and loved Buddy Holly. Music usually playing when Dad wasn’t around.

[@meganryan476]

Fabulous video about such a tragic day. The Buddy Holly glasses at the crash site are chilling,,,,It was so touching when you put the stones on the site, and with the music choice you had for that part of the video, I just cried.. Well done Scott, ty for bringing this to us!!

[@timothyforsythe3155]

After all these years it is still very sad. Lives that were just getting started. They had so much left to give. R.I.P.

[@winetimesports8477]

I was just here last may.. it was truly breathtaking and I’ll never forget it.. Clearlake Iowa will always have a special place in my hearty forever and always. Thank you for doing this Vlog. Bless

[@airwatts]

Scott, this was BRILLIANT. As a kid growing up in the 70's, both my parents told me of this story and the songs about this would play on the radio and my teachers would tell us about it but, It was the movie LA BAMBA years later that REALLY hit me...I CRIED and every time i would watch that movie, I would cry as I shed a tear again watching this...Thank you Scott 4 this..Your Humanity Is what makes your videos GREAT. Bless you brother and keep up the great work that you do....

[@marquesalston9227]

SCOTT!!!!! Great video brother Nobody does it better

[@SCOTTONTAPE]

Thank you Marques!!

[@leahreneeharjo6236]

Yes these four men will be in everyone's memories so will the songs too.. Congratulations on making the trip that has been on mind for 5 years Scott..

[@sweethartjen]

When I was a kid, my mom liked to listen to the music that she grew up with in the 50s and 60s so that's how I first heard the music of Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and The Big Bopper. Thank you, Scott, for making this video and sharing those places with us. I don't know if I will ever be able to travel to Iowa to pay my respects but I feel like I did through you. For those lost that night - 🌹🌹🌹🌹

[@aunttaiche9155]

I saw the movie The Buddy Holly Story starring Gary Busey when I was a kid back in the 80s. That’s when I became fascinated with Buddy Holly and his music. He was such a pioneer who was sadly taken way too soon. All of these young men will never be forgotten. I’ve seen many documentaries and KZbin videos about that night and what led up to the crash. I have to say Scott yours is the best I’ve seen yet. This was so beautifully shot and narrated. I’m so glad you got to fulfill your dream of going there .Thanks so much for taking us there with you! May they all Rest In Peace.

[@jeffs8614]

Very well done! A nice tribute. Buddy Holly was a musical genius. Listen to his entire body of work from the early days with Bob Montgomery when they used to play at the roller rink thru his time in Clovis NM where he recorded with Norman Petty (his studio is a reality check in time) and finally to his studio sessions in NYC. In reality, Buddy only became truly famous in the years following his death. I think they will live forever.

[@thesniper225]

I love their songs and its sad to rememeber that they were all young (including the pilot). I'm almost Ritchies age (i'll be 17 in October). It's people that die young in horrible ways that make me sad. RIP Buddy, Ritchie, JP and Roger

[@-breakofdawn-]

Another great video, thank you! Funnily, it was the same with my parents, they listened to the 50‘s music mainly, not so much the 60‘s when I grew up. I also went to see the „Buddy“ musical sometime in my twenties, and it took me back to my childhood days. How horrible for the wife to have learned about the crash through the media. I cannot imagine what she must‘ve gone through.

[@AuroraSmithify]

Sad story, yet beautifully told. Great job Scott. Thank you.

[@keithchambers1390]

Long before I was born although I’ve been told about this tragic story time and time again so many talented artists lost but not forgotten and the pilot of the airplane should also be remembered God Bless all the families involved RIP to everyone lost🕊️

[@ambermchugh9381]

Haven't been back to clear lake since about 95, looks the same. They did a buddy Holly days celebration in the summer, sure they still do. Thanks so much for traveling there it was great to see again

[@SQ773]

This was so sad... painful. Terrible actually.. I am from 1959. Thanks Scott for paying so much respect 🙏

[@angelanapier4248]

Well Scott, this one made me cry your love and respect for the 4 victims touched my heart. I don’t know when I first heard of this because I was a baby when it happened.

[@kandn420]

The Waylon Jennings part always stuck with me. R.I.P. to everyone evolved. My parents played everything. I grew up on the 20s big band music all the way up to 90s stuff. My mom loves county and musicals more though.

[@sandrasanders706]

Dion was also supposed to be on that plane too.

[@PK-bh1ww]

@@sandrasanders706 no he wasn't. Dion told a fake story to glorify his self. Buddy booked the plane for ONLY he, WAYLON and Tommy Alsup. NEVER Dion. Those 2 were his band mates and friends from Texas.

[@eviedevet2172]

Wow beautiful video Scott. I still love the music of Buddy and Ritchie. So tragic what happened to them. Thank you for making this video. May Buddy,Ritchie, the Big Bopper and the pilot rest in peace 💞

[@cathywhite9415]

Scott, this was simply an amazing & beautiful tribute to 3 wonderful men & artists. The crash site portion was especially beautiful, such a sad but peaceful & solemn place. Thank you for being so respectful to the spirits of Buddy Holly, Richie Valens, J.P. "The Big Bopper" Richardson as well as to the pilot Roger Peterson. It truly was..."The Day The Music Died" 🎶 😢 May they all rest in eternal peace 🙏🕊🕯

[@irmagerd7611]

Scott I love how respectful you are. You never exploit tragic situations for views. Thanks for this video & for remembering the pilot as well. He was a special person in his own rite. Another excellent video.

[@marcellef8302]

Great docu-vlog, Scott 👏🥲 I felt like I was walking right beside you. May these fine and talented gentlemen Rest In Heavenly Peace

[@SCOTTONTAPE]

Thank you so much Marcelle!

[@mrwonderful2081]

Sometimes I find myself mesmerized by your beauty Scott.

[@SCOTTONTAPE]

Wow thank you 😊

[@StLounatic]

I discovered them in my early teens here in St Louis there was a FM station that would play'50s and '60s era rock and roll. When I fell down the rabbit hole and read about what happened I took a trip up to the crash site with my dad and it was a very somber experience.

[@jolionalriddle9142]

I am a 70's kid, but I love their music, Thanks Scott, What a great tribute too them.

[@trishandrews1125]

Thanks, Scott eventhough I wasn't born in that era after watching La Bamba I enjoyed Richies songs Its so tragic that these artists Big Bopper, Richie, and Buddy Holly died so young that had there whole future ahead RIP to all these wonderful artists

[@rhondashinn4952]

My Mom was pregant with me when this tradegy happened, i would love to go to Lubbock, Texas to Buddy Holly musum. You rock Scott!

[@SheShedVintage]

I went to see "Buddy" as well Scott!! In Toronto at the Princess of Wales theatre. 💜💜 I was raised listening to Buddy Holly and love his music to this day. Thank you for sharing. It was good but tough to watch 💜

[@joluchford214]

Great tribute Scott, wish I could seen Buddy Holly live but born to late - 1968! Got into 50’s music when I was 15 and still love it!

[@vicvega3614]

This is a weird coincidence, last week i watched La Bamba with my girlfriend who had never seen it, couldn't believe she had never seen it since we both grew up in the 80s and La Bamba was 87 and is what made me pick up guitar. But since we watched it ive been watching all The vids about this crash and then yours pops up, the same thing happened with your Sam Kinison video, i was showing her Kinison stand up then boom ur vid, cosmic forces or energy, hmm

[@SCOTTONTAPE]

Cosmic energy that’s right

[@carolhoneycutt4445]

Earl and I loved this video, Scott. What a fantastic job you did covering all the details. I, like you, had a mother that LOVED 50's music and I have always loved these guys music. WOW, what a great job❤

[@chemaree73]

A local band did alot of 50's songs , Buddy being their biggest attraction .. aside from Elvis .. that's where I first discovered fifties music . I mostly grew up with Pink Floyd, ACDC ,Janis Joplin, The doors (who I love ) before I discovered British punk , then Mötley Crüe etc etc THEN I FOUND GRUNGE and that is true love !

[@whitleybayman123]

One of my favorite artists, tributed by one of my favorite you tube people, thanks Scott, loved this vid as I do all of them, but this one is special for me. Buddy Holy is one of my heroes musically. But also love Ritchie and J.P.

[@phillipchetta8120]

This had to be the most tragic and saddest day in rock and roll history. I was nine years old when this happened and I remember how shocked everyone was. RIP GUYS!

[@stevevorgias6734]

One thing I going over in my head before you said were the tour dates as you mentioned were scattered. I read recently that the airport was going to be demolished and I was worried I'd never see it. I called up the airport they said the building they flew out of was basically a barn. The barn was where I guess the main building is currently standing.

[@janetchildress7573]

That was awesome. I have seen the crash site on several videos but I have never seen the surf ballroom. It was the day the music died.

[@janineriddell5727]

I saw the ^ Buddy Holly " musical stage show I think it was in 1992 at The Royal Alexander Theater in Toronto .... loved it !

[@SCOTTONTAPE]

That’s where I saw it ! But it was a few years after, late 90’s . What a show!

[@discostu5426]

Thanks Scott, this was really well done. Thanks for mentioning the pilot also as so many forget about him.

[@jaycihimes2236]

Love this video and this music. I was introduced to this music through my mother and the movies LaBamba and The Buddy Holly Story. I fell in love with the music. My mom bought me the cassettes of Buddy Holly and the Crickets, Ritchie Valens, The LaBamba Soundtrack, The Everly Brothers and Ricky Nelson. My son loves this music as well!! Thank you so much for this!!!

[@SCOTTONTAPE]

Your mom has great taste! I love the Everly Brothers!

[@maryblaufuss7533]

Buddy wrote the song "Wishing," thinking it would be great for the Everly Brothers to record. He was good friends with them. I'm not sure why they never took him up on it. Record deals and legalities, maybe?

[@deborahmason8682]

Wow, I not only enjoyed this video, but I felt it in my heart and soul, my mom told me about the music I enjoyed listening to, and your video brought back memories of my mom, thankyou Scott, we'll done!

[@leesashriber5097]

The day the music died. Can you imagine what they would have achieved had they lived? Thank you Scott for this amazing upload ❣️😊 🕊️🙏❤️

[@Mike_Fahmy]

This was a great video you did a great job on it Scott, Nice Tribute To The Big Bopper, Buddy Holly & Richie Valens. RIP To All 3 of them 🙏🕊️ & to the rest of their victims. I will never be convinced Air travel is the safest form of transportation. Thanks again for doing this Scott

[@angela86753]

Your videos are always so informative and respectful to the people you cover. Thank you Scott

[@SCOTTONTAPE]

I appreciate that

[@davephillips433]

Great video. It must be fascinating to see historical sites like this. Valens has always been my personal favorite of the 3 but all of their music defined the 50’s. Keep doing what you do👍🏻

[@tribalwarrior1]

Amazing video Scott, thanks for taking and showing us places that a lot of us will never get to.

[@Teapot333]

Thank you so much from the UK. I’ll never be able to visit, but your very touching video is the next best thing. Like you I was bought up listening to 50s music. my parents had a lot of house parties and would roll the carpet up so everyone could dance. I loved watching from the stairs. Such lovely memories made. I love the fact that the Surf Ballroom is still being used. It’s like a museum but it has life. The actual crash site was very serene but eerie too. Thanks again for a fantastic job. RIP Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, J.P. Richardson and Roger Peterson. 🙏

[@jonofjord1663]

Was there today for the 65th anniversary of the crash. It was a cold windy day. The Ballroom is a truly amazing place. The crash site was somber, but it was good sharing the moment with some like-minded strangers.

[@truecrimefan837]

Waylon Jennings blamed himself for that plane crash. Took a lot of therapy before he realized it was not his fault. Thanks for the video Scott.

[@AliciapTexas]

Smart of you to record this in the late summertime. No way you'd get out there in all the snow that's there now. Great video!

[@clarebreadin2247]

Such a sad story but I loved Buddy, thank you for sharing another amazing video x

[@tafimutekwe2855]

Thank you Scotty for a well prepared video. You attacked the subject of the demise of the three rock stars in a unique way. May Their Souls Rest In Peace.

[@donnamcmurphy4873]

Scott, this is one of your best videos. It really resonated with me. I too was brought up on 50’s music more so than other decades. I really appreciate this story. Thank you for bringing us along!❤

[@jleechadwick]

I have been a fan of Buddy Holly since the 70s. I was born in 1956, so I really didn't discover his music until the 70s, when his music made a comeback. Of course, in 1978 "The Buddy Holly Story" came out with Gary Busey playing Buddy Holly. They all died way before their time. I know that Waylon Jennings went through a very tough time after the crash, with the last words he said to Buddy, but Buddy knew he didn't mean it. They were both kidding.

[@glennebel4863]

This is one of your best episodes to date! Although I’m a teen of the 80’s, the music of the 50’s & 60’s….the Doo Wop era is my favorite genre. The impact that these artists have had on music cannot be overstated. Such an enormous loss. VH-1 used to have a series called “Behind the Music.” One episode was called “The Day the Music Died” and was about this terrible loss. It’s worth seeing as it contained interviews with the manager of the Surf Ballroom, Waylon Jennings, Donna (Ritchie’s girlfriend) and many others. I think we all feel haunted by the story because we all love music and their influence is still being felt in everything we hear.

[@knightryder5136]

Excellent vlog Scotty you moved up a notch in my books 📕

[@billyrichards8834]

MUCH respect you showed when you not only placed the '3' rocks on the memorial of the trio, but the one for the PILOT as well, let's NOT forget about him.