Listen to Me: The Brief Life and Enduring Legacy of Buddy Holly

by Jeffrey K. Smith

This a biography of rock and roll pioneer, Buddy Holly, who died in a plane crash on February 3, 1959. In his 18 month professional career, he was an innovative singer, musician, and song-writer. His musical is enduring nearly six decades after his death

Genres: Biography

364 pages, Paperback

Published June 8, 2017

Reviews

[Nancy Prins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Inspirational story of the short life and tragic death of one of the pioneers of rock and roll, Buddy Holly. Holly packed a lot of living in his short 22 years and was a musical inspiration to the likes of Paul McCartney, John Lennon, Keith Richards, Eric Clapton, Bobby Vee and Bob Dylan. Unfortunately, a naive Holly trusted his manager, Norm Petty who took advantage of the band’s inexperience and naivety by making all decisions and by withholding funds from the band which they rightfully earned. Perhaps if Holly hadn’t been so financially strapped, he wouldn’t have felt the need to embark on the tour which claimed his life. Well written and interesting in details outlining his legacy.

[Cliff Poche · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book about the short and amazing the great Buddy Holly.
I loved reading this alot, and I still love listening to his music to this day.
Highly recommended to anyone who loves Buddy.

On Feburary 3rd, 1959 it is said the music died.
I believe that was wrong, The music of Buddy Holly, Richie Valens, and The Big Bopper will never die, Their spirts live on through those that enjoy their music.

[Herb Gannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent Read

Having just finished Listen To Me, I feel sure there is nothing else to know or learn about Buddy Holly, his music, the events of his life, and those around him. Thank you, Dr Smith, for your obvious tireless research and effort. Your book will Not Fade Away.

[Jerry Persall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Comprehensive. Thoroughly research. The very best. Gave me the look back I was looking for when I turned 80 in 2024. I am very grateful.

See title. Apologies for not realizing I was in title mode. Hope you get a chance to read it. Jerry in Colorado.

[Mary Shults · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing little know facts woven into this story. The author demonstrates his appreciation for Buddy on so many levels. I know more now than I did prior to opening this book so much more. I hated when I finished the book that there wasn't more . And so we will never know what Buddy could have done but it is mind blowing what he did and for such a short time...the people who he inspired (the musicians and those of us who hum or sing along). The author was poignant "he (Buddy) had it all all but the gift of time". I enjoyed this book and can say it makes me appreciate the talent of Buddy and his great fan Jeffrey K Smith. Now I am going to see and listen to Paul McCartneys special on Buddy. Makes me appreciate too how hard it is achieve what he and others do before they become "stars" ..."So here I go breaking all the rules. Its seems so easy..."

[Brice Kerr · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a compelling account of the short life of American music icon Buddy Holly and the mercenary forces that undoubtedly led to his death. The writing is such that I felt emotions ranging from sadness to rage, and I feel as though I personally know the characters in the narrative. A must read for anyone who grew up in the rock and roll era and anyone who did not!