Tribute to Buddy Holly

Fifty years ago today, rockabilly icon Buddy Holly died in a tragic plane crash. He left behind his pregnant wife, several unfinished projects, and millions of fans. The musician with the black-framed glasses and innovative tunes inspired greats like Bob Dylan, The Rolling Stones, and The Beatles. And as most people know, his death is the inspiration behind Don McLean's "American Pie."

I was a huge fan of Holly before I even really knew who he was. My dad used to drive with the windows rolled down, blasting Holly, and complaining about the deteriorating state of music. I was crooning "Earth Angel" at age nine.

Tonight the Buddy Holly Tribute 50th Anniversary featuring Billy Joe Huels and The Dusty 45s takes place at the Triple Door. (7 p.m., 9:30 p.m., $20 in advance.) They'll be performing all of the late star's hits.

Be there, my fellow fans!