On This Day in 1959: Buddy Holly, The Big Bopper, and Ritchie Valens Tragically Died, Inspiring Don McLean’s “American Pie”

Updated:

April 1, 2025 9:06 pm

Thanks to Don McLean’s 1972 hit song, “American Pie,” people refer to the passing of Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and The Big Bopper as “The Day The Music Died.” For context, on February 3, 1959, three of the biggest names in rock ‘n’ roll passed away in a plane accident on their way to North Dakota as a part of their Winter Dance Party Tour.

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Holly, Valens, and The Big Bopper were known for songs such as “Everyday,” “La Bamba,” and “Pink Petticoats.” It would be an understatement to just call these three rockstars. Rather, they were cultural pioneers and founded the framework rock ‘n’ roll followed up until the 21st century. That being so, Don McLean wrote his iconic tribute song, “American Pie.”

The Timeless Tribute Written By Don McLean

When these three icons passed away, Don McLean was approximately 13-years-old, and given his age, McLean’s musical inspiration derived heavily from these legends. As a matter of fact, McLean once stated, “I am honored to know that the phrase ‘The day the music died’ from my song “American Pie” has been applied as a tribute to Buddy Holly, The Big Bopper, and Ritchie Valens on this day, February 3rd every year.” “They were my heroes and I always want to take the time to honor them,” added McLean.

Don McLean’s “American Pie” is arguably one of the most infamous rock ‘n’ roll songs of all time. Thanks to its epic message, even current generations are aware of the crash and the prominent figures involved in it. Released in 1971 on McLean’s album American Pie, the song launched the singer into the musical stratosphere.

Following its release, the song peaked at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and remained there for four weeks. McLean also peaked at No. 1 in Australia, Canada, and New Zealand. Though, and more importantly, Don McLean’s single remains as a time capsule. A time capsule that perfectly articulates the setting and feelings of the generation who lost their musical voice.

Some people have coined McLean as a one-hit wonder, but that is not true in the slightest. Also, even if he was, what difference would it make? After all, the man wrote and released one of, if not the greatest tribute song of all time. Frankly, if it wasn’t for McLean, the names Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and The Big Bopper might have been forgotten altogether. Today marks the 66th anniversary of that fateful day.

Don McLean – American Pie (1972)

In honor of Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens and The Big Bopper, who lost their lives on this day in 1959 in a plane crash. pic.twitter.com/22zZCanuWO
— 🎸 Rock History 🎸 (@historyrock_) February 3, 2025