Day 3 - 35 -- when the music died

Fifty-eight years ago yesterday the early rock and roll world lost three unique players. Fifty-eight years ago today, a young man with a paper route read of the death of Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens and the Big Bopper. Twelve years later, Don MacLean would write and record a song that resonates with listeners to this day. Though there was an horrific loss, out of it came something truly poetic, something instantly recognized by many, many people. From MacLean's lyrics came a way to describe the day of that winter plane crash -- the day the music died.

While the three passengers on that plane did not produce any new music, all of their work before the crash lives on. Today I'd like to do something different and share four selections that represent the bodies of work of four artists. The first is one of my favourite Buddy Holly songs, followed by a favourite from Ritchie Valens. JP Richardson (the Big Bopper) was known for one particular song, one that always caught my attention when heard. The fourth  selection is the epic poetic song from Don MacLean. As a bonus I'll include a song from an artist that gave his seat on that plane to someone else -- lyrics he wrote for several songs tried to exorcise those demons. You may need a big cup of tea or nice glass of red and just sit back, listen and relax. Enjoy!

True Love Ways -- Buddy Holly

Donna -- Ritchie Valens

Chantilly Lace -- The Big Bopper

American Pie -- Don MacLean

Old Friend -- Waylon Jennings