A Rock and Roll pioneer and a forefather of the Chicano rock movement, Valens' recording career lasted only eight months. During this time, however, he scored several hits, most notably "La Bamba", which was originally a Mexican folk song that Valens transformed with a rock rhythm and beat that became a hit in 1958, making Valens a pioneer of the Spanish-speaking rock and roll movement.
Valens died in a plane crash outside Clear Lake, Iowa while on the Winter Dance Party tour. Also killed in the crash were the pilot of the plane and rock and roll stars Buddy Holly and The Big Bopper. The song American Pie, by Don McLean is a tribute to the three musicians who died, and a reflection of the changes in music since their deaths. In the song he calls the day of their death "the day the music died," a phrase that came from newspaper headlines that announced the tragedy on February 3, 1959
Brought up hearing traditional Mexican mariachi music, as well as flamenco guitar, R&B and jump blues, by the age of 5 he expressed an interest in making music of his own. He was encouraged by his father to take up guitar and trumpet, and it is also known that he later taught himself the drums. One day, a neighbour came across Ritchie trying to play a guitar that had only two strings. He re-strung the instrument, and taught Ritchie the fingerings of some chords. While Ritchie was left-handed, he was so eager to learn the guitar that he mastered the traditionally right-handed version of the instrument. By the time he was attending Pacoima Jr. High School, his proficiency on the guitar was such that he brought the instrument to school and would sing and play songs to his friends on the bleachers.
When he was sixteen years old, he was invited to join a local band named The Silhouettes as guitarist. Later on, the main vocalist left the group and Ritchie assumed this position as well. In addition to the performances with The Silhouettes, he would play solo at parties and other social gatherings.
A completely self-taught musician, Valenzuela was an accomplished singer and guitarist. At his appearances he often improvised new lyrics and added new riffs to popular songs while he was playing. This is an aspect of his music that is, sadly, not heard in his commercial studio recordings. Due to his high-energy performances, Valenzuela earned the nickname "The Little Richard of the Valley".
In 2002, he was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame. "La Bamba" was named one of The Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame's Top 500 Songs Of All Time. In 2004, "La Bamba" was named #345 on Rolling Stone's Top 500 Songs Of All Time.
Fast Freight
Ritchie Valens Lyrics
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Ritchie Valens
(R. Valens)
DELFI Single #4111 (A-side) December 1958
Initially released under the name, Arvee Allens.
Recorded: Gold Star Studios, Hollywood, CA
Sessions by Bob Keane and Rene Hall
Richie - lead guitar, Irving Ashby or Carole Kaye - rhythm guitar
Rene Hall - Danelectro 6 string bass.
Instrumental Track
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As an instrumental track, "Fast Freight" is open to interpretation. However, the driving melody and upbeat rhythm suggest a sense of urgency and motion, as if the song is meant to capture the thrill of travel and adventure. The guitar riffs are particularly impressive, with Ritchie Valens showcasing his talent as a lead guitarist. The rhythm guitar adds depth and texture to the song, while the standup bass and drums provide a steady beat that propels the music forward.
Perhaps the most interesting aspect of "Fast Freight" is the fact that it was initially released under the name Arvee Allens. This was a common practice at the time, as record labels would sometimes use pseudonyms to test the waters with new artists. It wasn't until later that Ritchie Valens became a household name, thanks in part to hits like "La Bamba" and "Donna." Nevertheless, "Fast Freight" remains a testament to Valens' musicianship and his ability to captivate audiences with his unique style.
Overall, "Fast Freight" is a fun and energetic instrumental track that showcases Ritchie Valens' talent as a guitarist. It's catchy and upbeat, with a sense of motion that makes it perfect for dancing or just listening to on a road trip. It's a testament to Valens' legacy as one of the most talented musicians of his time, and a reminder of the impact he had on the rock and roll genre.
Line by Line Meaning
Contributed by Jasmine G. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
Ornelas Productions
Im 21 years old and I think this a masterpiece, old rock was diff man.
Asylum Rain
Same age. For some reason over the past 4 or so years I’ve slowly gotten more and more and more interested in the 40’s, 50’s and 60’s rock and idk why. Mostly 50’s
Shari Black
Got me shimmying on the edge of my bed . . . How could anyone not love this? A gem, indeed!!
Shari Black
If you love the tune as much as I do, and your initials are TJ, send me a comment! I have those pouty lips you sing of. Would love to use them on YOU! I THINK OF YOU IN OVERTIME❣️❣️
Shari Black
Please 🙏 with sucrose on top!
Simone Lima
Eternamente Ritchie Valens 2023 uma grande estrela 🌟 amo como cantor, músico filho exemplar, pessoa honrada sempre em meu coração ❤️
Compositor e Intérprete Carlos Madero.
Ritchie valens uno de los importantes pioneros del rock and roll junto con buddy holly y big bopper que fallecieron el 3 de febrero de 1959 lo que se conmemora como el día que murió la música
Risa Laughter
Wow.....this sounds phenomenal.......
The GoodTime FolkRock Show
Richie plays a danelectro longhorn bass on this number proving his versitiliy ....he was a rocker!
prisedepied
Apport de René Hall !