It's the subject of many stories, trivia questions, and tributes ... especially if you're from Northern Iowa or if you're a huge Buddy Holly fan.  On TUESDAY February 3rd, 1959 at about 1:00 in the morning, the plane carrying Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and The Big Bopper crashed after about 6 miles in the air, just outside of Clear Lake and killed all on board.

Trivia points include Waylon Jennings' quote to Buddy Holly (in jest) about the plane crashing,  the coin flip between Ritchie Valens and Buddy Holly's other bandmate, J.P. Richardson having the flu, Dion DiMucci declining the plane offer because of the cost, the inexperience of the pilot who had recently failed his instruments test, and the Flight Company owned and operated by  a guy named "Dwyer" ...  although I hear he was a great bowler.

It was one of Rock & Roll's greatest romantic tragedies ... and if you ever feel nostalgic, head up to the 3-day tribute every year at the Surf Ballroom in Clear Lake.  It's a pretty cool event and it might remind you of the feeling you get when you visit Graceland.

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