Tag: Buddy Holly

May 22 2010

Original v. Cover — #26 in a Series

Buddy Holly Pictures, Images and Photos

The lyrics for this week’s feature song could have very easily been lifted from the script of a lobbyist from one of our largest corporate rulers when they are meeting with their leased members of Congress. The song conveys a message that propels the matter of taking someone for granted to new heights.

That aside, this week’s selection is far more about the original performer and some of the greats who covered this song, including a then seemingly insignificant, but ultimately a major turning point in rock and roll history.  

The inspiration from this week’s feature song was derived from a trip to the movies by members of the band. A phrase frequently used by John Wayne in the film, “The Searchers” would become the title of this song.  

Feb 03 2009

The Lovers Cried, and the Poets Dreamed

Fifty years ago, on February 3, 1959, three young musicians were killed in a tragic plane crash.  The lives of Buddy Holly, Richie Valens, and Jiles Richardson ended on a dark winter night, their voices were silenced.  As the years passed, as the darkness of a long 20th century night of conflict and injustice deepened, too many other young voices were silenced.  By war, by oppression, by disillusionment so deep it emptied their souls and left them mute. They withdrew into isolation and despair, the drums of war, the drums of greed were too loud. The music of democracy, the music of justice could not be heard.  

A long, long time ago…

I can still remember

How that music used to make me smile . . .

Purple thumbs in Iraq.  Red, white, and blue thumbs in America.    We vote, but nothing ever changes.  The music of democracy, the music of justice is still not being heard in the corridors of power.