Buddy Holly (1936-1959) was an American rock and roll pioneer known for his innovative music and influential style. Born Charles Hardin Holley in Lubbock, Texas, Holly’s career was marked by his distinctive vocal style, use of innovative recording techniques, and incorporation of strings and backing vocals into his music. His major hits include “Peggy Sue,” “That’ll Be the Day,” “Rave On,” and “Oh Boy!” Holly’s approach to songwriting and his use of the Fender Stratocaster guitar had a lasting impact on rock and roll, influencing a wide range of artists across genres.
Holly’s career was tragically cut short when he died in a plane crash on February 3, 1959, a day that became known as “The Day the Music Died.” Despite his brief career, Holly’s contributions to music left a lasting legacy, and he is remembered as one of the genre’s foundational figures.
1. That’ll Be The Day
“That’ll Be the Day” is a song by Buddy Holly and the Crickets, released in 1957. Written by Holly, Jerry Allison, and Norman Petty, the song became a major hit and is considered one of the defining tracks of early rock and roll. Its upbeat rhythm, catchy melody, and Holly’s distinctive vocal style helped establish him as a leading figure in the genre.
The song’s lyrics reflect a sense of youthful defiance and longing, with the phrase “that’ll be the day” expressing skepticism and hope. “That’ll Be the Day” topped the charts and has been covered by numerous artists over the years, solidifying its place as a classic rock and roll anthem.
2. Everyday
“Everyday” is a song by Buddy Holly, released in 1957. Written by Holly, along with Norman Petty and Jerry Allison, the song features a bright, upbeat melody and showcases Holly’s distinctive vocal style. The track is known for its infectious rhythm and memorable chorus, with Holly’s use of a Fender Stratocaster guitar adding a signature rock and roll sound.
“Everyday” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts and becoming one of Holly’s most enduring hits. The song’s joyful and hopeful lyrics, combined with its lively arrangement, have made it a timeless classic in the rock and roll genre.
3. It Doesn’t Matter Anymore
“It Doesn’t Matter Anymore” is a song by Buddy Holly, released in 1959. Written by Paul Anka, the track was one of Holly’s final singles before his death in a plane crash in February 1959. The song features Holly’s distinctive vocal style and a smooth, mellow arrangement that contrasts with his more upbeat rock and roll hits.
The lyrics reflect themes of heartbreak and resignation, with Holly expressing a sense of moving on and letting go of a past relationship. The song showcases Holly’s ability to convey emotion through his music and remains a poignant part of his legacy. “It Doesn’t Matter Anymore” is remembered for its emotional depth and as a significant example of Holly’s versatile talent.
4. Love Me
“Love Me” is a song by Buddy Holly, released in 1959. Written by Holly and recorded shortly before his death, the track is a heartfelt ballad that features his distinctive vocal delivery and emotive lyrics. The song’s arrangement is characterized by its gentle melody and subtle instrumentation, showcasing Holly’s ability to convey deep emotion through his music.
“Love Me” reflects Holly’s versatility as an artist, highlighting his skill in both upbeat rock and roll tracks and more introspective, romantic songs. Although released posthumously, the song remains a testament to Holly’s enduring influence and his impact on the evolution of rock and roll.
5. Send Me Some Lovin’
“Send Me Some Lovin’” is a song originally written and recorded by Little Richard in 1958. The track is a classic example of rhythm and blues, featuring Little Richard’s dynamic vocal style and energetic piano performance. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy melody make it a standout piece in his discography.
The lyrics express a longing for affection and emotional connection, a common theme in R&B music. Little Richard’s performance brings a sense of urgency and passion to the song, showcasing his ability to convey deep emotion through his energetic delivery.
“Send Me Some Lovin’” has been covered by various artists over the years, including notable versions by artists like Eddie Floyd and the Beatles, further cementing its place in the R&B and rock and roll canon.
6. Not Fade Away
“Not Fade Away” is a song originally written by Buddy Holly and Norman Petty, and first recorded by Buddy Holly and the Crickets in 1957. The song is known for its distinctive beat, driving rhythm, and Holly’s charismatic vocal delivery. It features a simple, catchy melody and lyrics about enduring love and the desire to be remembered.
The song’s driving beat, which influenced the development of rock and roll, has been cited as a precursor to the “Bo Diddley” beat, an influential rhythm in rock music. “Not Fade Away” was later famously covered by The Rolling Stones in 1964, whose version helped bring the song to a new generation and solidified its place in rock history. The Stones’ rendition introduced a raw, energetic edge to the track, contributing to its lasting impact.
7. Rave On!
“Rave On” is a song by Buddy Holly, released in 1958. Written by Sonny West, Bill Tilghman, and Norman Petty, the track features Holly’s energetic vocal delivery and a driving beat, making it one of his standout rock and roll hits. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy melody capture the exuberant spirit of early rock and roll.
“Rave On” was praised for its innovative sound and was influential in shaping the direction of rock music. Holly’s lively performance and the song’s infectious rhythm helped establish him as a key figure in the genre. The track has been covered by various artists over the years, including a notable version by John Lennon in 1970, demonstrating its enduring appeal and impact on rock music.
8. Peggy Sue
“Peggy Sue” is a classic rock and roll song by Buddy Holly, released in 1957. Written by Holly, Jerry Allison, and Norman Petty, the song features Holly’s distinctive vocals and energetic guitar work. With its catchy melody and upbeat rhythm, “Peggy Sue” became one of Holly’s most popular hits and is considered a rock and roll staple.
The song’s lyrics tell the story of a young man’s feelings for a girl named Peggy Sue, with a focus on youthful romance and longing. The track’s upbeat tempo and memorable chorus contributed to its commercial success, making it one of Holly’s defining songs and a significant influence on the development of rock and roll.
9. Crying, Waiting, Hoping
“Crying, Waiting, Hoping” is a song written by Buddy Holly and recorded by him in 1958. The track features Holly’s distinctive vocal style and is known for its heartfelt lyrics and simple yet effective instrumentation.
The song’s lyrics express themes of longing and heartbreak, reflecting the emotional depth and sincerity that Holly brought to his music. With its poignant melody and straightforward arrangement, “Crying, Waiting, Hoping” captures Holly’s ability to convey complex emotions through his songwriting and performance.
The track was also covered by other artists, including a notable version by Paul McCartney, which highlights its lasting influence and appeal in the world of rock and roll and pop music.
10. Maybe Baby
“Maybe Baby” is a song by Buddy Holly and the Crickets, released in 1957. Written by Holly and Norman Petty, the track features Holly’s distinctive vocal style and upbeat rock and roll rhythm. The song’s lyrics express a sense of uncertainty and hopeful longing, with the repeated phrase “maybe baby” reflecting the theme of romantic ambiguity.
“Maybe Baby” became a hit, reaching the top of the charts and contributing to Holly’s rise as a major figure in early rock and roll. Its catchy melody and energetic performance have made it a timeless classic, showcasing Holly’s innovative approach to the genre and his influence on future rock and roll artists.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
