Singles & More for Everyone

Ritchie Valens, one of the leading lights in the Chicano style of rock, was a Mexican-American artist whose music was heavily influenced by R&B and Latin flavors, often sung in Spanish. Tragically, Valens was one of the three rock 'n' roll stars, along with Buddy Holly and The Big Bopper, who perished in a fateful light aeroplane crash in Iowa on February 3rd, 1959, an event immortalized in Don McLean's 1971 hit "American Pie" as "The Day The Music Died."

Despite his brief, eight-month recording career, Valens had already scored three hits, two of which were in the Top 100 at the time of the accident. This comprehensive 20-track LP compiles all of his singles through 1962, including the A and B sides of his releases on the Del-Fi label, as well as selected album tracks and demos. It naturally includes his No.2 US hit "Donna" and its famous B-side "La Bamba," along with his other hits "Come On, Let's Go," "That's My Little Suzie," and "Little Girl."

Ritchie Valens was still only 17 years old when he tragically passed away, but his brief yet impactful career left an indelible mark on the Chicano rock scene. This collection serves as an evocative showcase for the young talent's musical prowess, highlighting the unique blend of R&B, Latin rhythms, and Spanish-language vocals that defined his distinctive sound. Despite his tragic demise, Ritchie Valens' legacy continues to resonate with music fans worldwide, cementing his place as one of the pioneering figures in the Chicano rock movement.

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