The Complete Releases 1958-60

One of the leading lights in the Chicano style of rock music was Ritchie Valens, originating from the Mexican-American community in the USA. This music genre was often performed in Spanish and heavily influenced by R&B, with a Latin flavor. Sadly, Ritchie Valens is also well-known for his tragic death in a plane crash in Iowa on February 3rd, 1959, alongside Buddy Holly and The Big Bopper. This year marks the 60th anniversary of that fateful day, immortalized in Don McLean's song "American Pie" as "The Day The Music Died".

Ritchie Valens was only 17 years old at the time of his death, but in his short eight-month recording career, he had already produced three hits, two of which were in the Top 100 at the time of the accident. This collection includes all of his releases up to 1962, featuring the A and B sides of his singles for the Del-Fi label, as well as all the tracks from his studio albums "Ritchie Valens" and "Ritchie".

Additionally, this collection includes all the tracks from his album "In Concert At Pacoima Jr. High", showcasing 'live' recordings from one of his performances, alongside unfinished demos with narrative by Bob Keane, the owner of the Del-Fi label. The compilation naturally includes his No. 2 US hit "Donna" and its famous B side "La Bamba", as well as his other hits like "Come On, Let's Go", "That's My Little Suzie", and "Little Girl". This album serves as a poignant tribute to the remarkable talent of Ritchie Valens, who left a lasting impact during his tragically short career.

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