10 Best Buddy Holly Songs of All Time

Buddy Holly was an American singer-songwriter and guitarist who is often referred to as one of the pioneers of rock and roll. Born in Texas in 1936, Holly began his music career as a teenager, playing in local clubs and radio stations.

Holly’s breakthrough came in 1957 with the release of his hit single “That’ll Be the Day,” which became a rock and roll classic and helped to define the genre. His music was characterized by its catchy melodies, harmonies, and innovative use of studio techniques.

Holly continued to release successful albums and singles throughout the late 1950s, including “Peggy Sue,” “Everyday,” and “Oh Boy!” He was known for his distinctive voice, his guitar playing, and his songwriting, and his influence on the development of rock and roll was significant.

Despite his untimely death in a plane crash in 1959 at the age of 22, Holly’s impact on music continued to be felt for generations. He has been praised for his artistry, his innovation, and his contributions to the evolution of popular music. His music continues to inspire and influence artists around the world, and his legacy as one of the greatest rock and roll musicians of all time is secure.

1. “That’ll Be The Day”

This track from Buddy Holly’s debut album quickly became a hit thanks to its infectious melody and catchy lyrics. Its opening guitar riff and upbeat tempo perfectly encapsulate the spirit of 1950s rock and roll. The song has remained a cultural touchstone, with countless covers by other artists over the years.

As one of Holly’s most popular songs, "That’ll Be The Day" features his signature vocal style paired with bold electric guitar sounds. It’s a classic example of early rock and roll, with an emphasis on catchy hooks and memorable refrains. The song continues to be widely recognized as a pioneering track in the genre.

Interestingly, "That’ll Be The Day" was given its title by John Wayne in the film The Searchers. Wayne uses the phrase to express hope for his character’s future, inspiring Holly to include it in his songwriting. This tidbit adds another layer of cultural significance to the already beloved tune.

Listening to ‘Everyday’ is like having a musical hug from Buddy Holly himself.

2. “Everyday”

This Buddy Holly classic is a timeless song that continues to be celebrated today. Its upbeat rhythm and catchy lyrics make it a fan favorite and have cemented its place in music history. The emotion conveyed in the song's vocals, combined with Holly's signature guitar sound, creates a delightful listening experience that never gets old. "Everyday" showcases the artist's lyrical prowess and musical innovation, making it an essential track in his discography.

As one of the greatest hits of Buddy Holly, "Everyday" has been critically acclaimed by many music enthusiasts worldwide for its fine production and groundbreaking approach. The song was released in 1957 and became an instant hit during that time, topping various music charts across the globe. It has since been covered by numerous artists and featured in various movies and TV shows due to its exceptional tune.

One intriguing fact about "Everyday" is that it was co-written by Norman Petty. He was not only a renowned songwriter but also a famous producer who played an incredible role in recording some of Buddy Holly's most popular tracks. Together, they created numerous successful releases that continue to inspire new generations of music lovers today.

Even though it doesn't matter anymore, this song still makes us want to bust out our best Buddy Holly air guitar moves.

3. “It Doesn’t Matter Anymore”

This classic, soulful tune by Buddy Holly called “It Doesn’t Matter Anymore” is a true gem in his discography. The melancholic lyrics paired with the lively, upbeat melody showcases Holly's ability to create contrast within a single composition. This song was released posthumously after Holly's tragic plane crash and serves as a testament to his lasting musical legacy. Its universal theme of heartbreak has made it resonate with listeners for generations and continues to inspire contemporary musicians today. Don't miss out on immersing yourself in this timeless classic.

Love me tender, love me true, but if you don't love Buddy Holly's 'Love Me', then I don't want to be loved by you.

4. “Love Me”

This track, ranking fourth on our list of top 10 Buddy Holly songs, is the timeless classic "Love Me." It showcases Holly's signature style of catchy hooks and playful lyrics. The upbeat rhythm and irresistible melody make it a must-have addition to your playlist. In "Love Me," Holly sings about how he desires love and affection, begging his crush to give him a chance. This song has undoubtedly stood the test of time and will continue to be a fan favorite for generations to come. Don't miss out on adding this gem to your music collection for a perfect blend of nostalgia and modernity.

Sending love is so last century, now we just slide into their DMs and hope for the best.

5. “Send Me Some Lovin'”

Buddy Holly's track "Send Me Some Lovin'" is a timeless classic that stands out for its soulful rhythm and romantic lyrics. The song is recognized for its upbeat melody, simple guitar riffs, and joyful background vocals. With his unique guitar style and emotional delivery, Buddy Holly manages to capture the essence of love and longing in this song. "Send Me Some Lovin'" has stood the test of time with its memorable chorus and heartfelt verses, and is sure to remain a fan favorite for years to come.

While many of Buddy Holly's songs were inspired by his personal life experiences, "Send Me Some Lovin'" was actually written by John Marascalco and Leo Price. Despite not being an original composition by Buddy Holly himself, he still managed to make the song his own with his signature sound. He recorded the track in 1957 during a productive period that saw him write some of his best-loved hits.

Fun Fact: "Send Me Some Lovin'" was covered by several popular artists over the years including Little Richard, Otis Redding, and Sam Cooke among others. Each artist brought their own unique flavor to the song but it was Buddy Holly's version that remains most iconic to this day.

Even Buddy himself couldn't make 'Not Fade Away' fade away from our playlists.

6. “Not Fade Away”

One of Buddy Holly's most iconic and enduring hit singles is represented by the song we're discussing next. With its driving drumbeat and classic guitar riff, this song is one of Holly's most recognizable tunes, cementing his status as a true rock and roll pioneer. Its upbeat tempo and infectious melody are likely to get stuck in your head long after you listen to it. The song has had a lasting impact on music history, inspiring countless covers by other artists over the years.

But what makes “Not Fade Away” stand out is not just its enduring popularity. It was one of Holly's most innovative songs for its time, blending together rock and roll with elements of African-American rhythm and blues music. It was a pioneering sound that would influence countless other groups in the years to come. Additionally, the song's lyrics about the power of love and perseverance have resonated with generations of fans.

It's worth noting that while “Not Fade Away” was written by Buddy Holly, it quickly became closely associated with another group: The Rolling Stones. They famously covered the track on their 1964 eponymous debut album – a cover that went on to top the charts in several countries around the world. In doing so, they helped introduce a new generation to Holly's music.

If you're looking to dig deeper into this classic track, there are plenty of ways to do it justice. One suggestion might be to focus on isolating specific instrumental parts – from Keith Richard's famous guitar riff during the verses to Charlie Watts' steady percussion throughout – in order to appreciate each element more intimately. Another idea would be to explore some of the many covers that have been recorded over the years by both well-known artists (like Bruce Springsteen) and lesser-known acts alike. No matter how you experience “Not Fade Away”, there’s little doubt that it will leave an indelible mark on your musical memory.

If you're not dancing like a fool to “Rave On!”, then you're not doing Buddy Holly justice.

7. “Rave On!”

This iconic melody, once sung by Buddy Holly, is the seventh track on the 10 best Buddy Holly songs of all time. "Rave On!" signifies the power of human emotions and their abilities to sway another person's state of being. The song's cheerful energy and infectious rhythm make it a timeless classic loved by generations.

Buddy Holly's signature growl in "Rave On!" adds to its appeal. The spirited guitar riff and catchy chorus are bound to fill you with an inexplicable joy that remains unmatched even to this day. It is easy to see why this song has stood the test of time and continues to be relevant.

The unique factor that sets "Rave On!" apart from other tracks in this list is its contagious happiness. It is almost impossible not to tap your feet or sing along with the upbeat rhythm. This characteristic alone justifies "Rave On!" as one of Buddy Holly's best works.

As legend goes, Buddy Holly wrote "Rave On!" after hearing his friends say those words in a conversation at a diner. He then went on to write an entire song around the phrase, creating one of his most legendary tracks ever recorded.

Listening to 'Peggy Sue' is like getting hit with a nostalgia brick – a painful yet pleasurable experience.

8. “Peggy Sue”

This track is arguably one of Holly's most popular and recognized works. "Peggy Sue" is a timeless classic that follows the story of a teenager getting ready to confess his love for Peggy Sue. The song's upbeat rhythm and catchy tune made it an instant hit during its release in 1957.

The song's lasting appeal can be attributed to its simplicity and relatable nature, finding resonance with listeners even today. Its unique hook has influenced countless artists and musicians, making it a true masterpiece.

It's interesting to note that Holly originally intended to name the song "Cindy Lou" after his niece. But upon discovering that the name Peggy Sue had an irresistible charm, he decided to make the switch.

Don't miss out on the chance to listen to this legendary track that has stood the test of time and remains an iconic symbol of rock 'n' roll music. Give "Peggy Sue" a listen and transport yourself back to an era where music was truly revolutionary.

If only Buddy Holly had waited a little longer, he would have seen the impact his music had on generations of fans crying, waiting, and hoping for more.

9. “Crying, Waiting, Hoping”

This timeless Buddy Holly masterpiece, filled with beautiful harmonies and soulful lyrics, is one of the top ten songs that every fan should listen to. The emotional depth of "Longing, Waiting, Expecting" captures the essence of unrequited love and heartbreak. This refined and enchanting song will take you on a captivating journey that speaks to the heart.

The smooth melody and powerful guitar riffs in this classic track are a true testament to Buddy Holly's remarkable talent as a musician and songwriter. With its bittersweet lyrics about waiting for someone who may never come back, "Longing, Waiting, Expecting" resonates deeply with anyone who has ever experienced the pain of lost love.

The track's memorable chorus is sure to stay with you long after it ends and will certainly leave an indelible mark on your soul. So take some time out of your day and give this beautifully crafted song the attention it deserves.

Don't miss out on experiencing one of Buddy Holly's greatest works; be sure to add "Longing, Waiting, Expecting" to your playlist today. Your heart will thank you for it.

You might have better luck finding that missing sock than figuring out what the actual lyrics are in 'Maybe Baby'.

10. “Maybe Baby”

This entry in the top 10 list of Buddy Holly's greatest hits is the song referred to as 'Maybe Baby'. Its catchy melody and pulsing rhythmic arrangement make it an unforgettable addition to Holly's legacy. A reflection of young love and hopeful anticipation, this track instantly became a fan favorite upon its release. It features Holly's confident vocal style – venturing towards dynamic highs and low lulls, with ease. The song is brimming with youthful energy and innocent optimism, something that resonates favorably with audiences worldwide.

As the fourth entry on our list of Buddy Holly’s top tracks, "Maybe Baby" is not one to be overlooked. The up-tempo drumbeat and steel guitar in this song showcase Holly's eclectic musical influences and provide a vibrant backdrop for his impeccable vocals. Fans everywhere embraced this piece upon its initial release unquestioningly, resulting in an enduring legacy for Buddy Holly's music.

Buddy Holly's remarkable life was heavily influential in shaping the sound we recognize today as rock n roll. With songs like “Maybe Baby,” he captivated audiences around the world with his unique sound and incredible talent for producing memorable tunes. Interestingly enough, while recording “Maybe Baby”, lead guitarist Niki Sullivan reportedly had difficulty maintaining a particular chord progression during one recording session because of his laughably large hands! This anecdote is just one example of how personal quirks often led to iconic moments throughout popular music history.