Richard Steven Valenzuela
- Born:
- May 13, 1941, Pacoima, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Died:
- February 3, 1959, near Clear Lake, Iowa, USA
- Nationality:
- American
- Profession(s):
- Singer, Songwriter, Guitarist
Early Life and Education
- Richard Steven Valenzuela, later known as Ritchie Valens, was raised in a working-class family in Pacoima, California.
- He developed an early interest in music, particularly the guitar, and was largely self-taught.
- Valens attended Pacoima Junior High School and San Fernando High School.
Career and Major Achievements
- Valens began performing locally in the San Fernando Valley.
- In 1958, he was discovered by Bob Keane, owner of Del-Fi Records.
- His recording career was brief but impactful.
- His hits included "Come On, Let's Go", "Donna", and "La Bamba."
- The rock and roll rendition of the Mexican folk song "La Bamba" became a major hit, and even now, decades later, searching "ritchie valens la bamba youtube" returns thousands of results.
Notable Works
Discography
| Title | Year | Label |
|---|---|---|
| Ritchie Valens | 1959 | Del-Fi Records |
| Ritchie Valens in Concert at Pacoima Jr. High | 1960 | Del-Fi Records (Posthumous) |
| Ritchie Valens Memorial Album | 1962 | Del-Fi Records (Posthumous) |
Filmography
| Title | Year | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Go, Johnny, Go! | 1959 | Himself (Cameo) |
Legacy and Impact
Ritchie Valens was a pioneer of Chicano rock and a significant figure in the early days of rock and roll. His fusion of Mexican folk music with rock and roll resonated with a broad audience and helped to break down cultural barriers. His tragic death at the age of 17 in a plane crash alongside Buddy Holly and J. P. "The Big Bopper" Richardson cemented his status as a rock and roll legend.