Buddy Holly was an American musician, singer, and songwriter from Lubbock, Texas. He is considered one of the most influential figures of the early rock and roll era. He rose to fame in the late 1950s with a string of hit songs, including “That'll Be the Day,” “Peggy Sue,” and “Everyday,” that showcased his distinctive vocal style and songwriting talent. He also played guitar and was known for his pioneering use of electronic instruments in rock music. Holly's career was cut short when he died in a plane crash in 1959 at the age of 22, along with fellow musicians Ritchie Valens and J.P. “The Big Bopper” Richardson.

Buddy Holly's real name was Charles Hardin Holley. He changed the spelling of his last name to “Holly” due to a misspelling in his first recording contract.

He was nicknamed “Buddy” by his mother, who felt that his given name was too big for her little boy.

Holly's mother and father were supportive of his musical talents, even penning a letter to the editor of Lubbock's newspaper in defense of rock 'n' roll-loving teenagers. ¹⁾