Buddy Holly
Check out 11 of the best Buddy Holly quotes and song lyrics. Pictured: A Buddy Holly statue at Buddy Holly Plaza in Lubbock, Texas. Getty Images/Ronald Martinez

On this day in 1936, rock ‘n’ roll legend Buddy Holly was born. Holly would have been 80 years old today but sadly, he passed away at the age of 22 in a plane crash in 1959 that would go on to be known as “The Day the Music Died.” Along with artists Ritchie Valens and J.P. “The Big Bopper” Richardson, the three had their careers cut short just as they were hitting their peaks.

Although Holly’s career was didn’t last long, his impact on music was strong. “At least the first 40 songs we [The Beatles] wrote were Buddy Holly-influenced,” said Paul McCartney. While The Beatles were influenced by Holly’s music, Elton John was influenced by his style. “I only needed specs for reading, but as a result of wearing them all the time to try to look like Buddy Holly, I became genuinely nearsighted,” said John.

To remember Holly on his 80th birthday, check out some of his best quotes and song lyrics below:

  • “It’s so easy to fall in love — it’s so easy to fall in love. People tell me love is for fools, so here I go breaking all of the rules.” (“It’s So Easy!”)
  • “Sometimes we’ll sigh — sometimes we’ll cry. And we’ll know why just you and I know true love ways.” (“True Love Ways”)
  • “Hold me close and tell me how you feel. Tell me love is real.” (“Words of Love”)
  • “If anyone asks you what kind of music you play, tell him ‘pop.’ Don’t tell him ‘rock ‘n’ roll’ or they won’t even let you in the hotel.”
  • “Death is very often referred to as a good career move.”
  • “Without Elvis none of us could have made it.”
  • “I’m not trying to stump anybody... it’s the beauty of the language that I’m interested in.”
  • “A little bit of lovin’ makes everything right. And I’m gonna see my baby tonight.” (“Oh Boy”)
  • “Well, the little things you say and do make me want to be with you. Rave on, it’s a crazy feeling and I know it’s got me reelin.’” (“Rave On”)
  • “She’s the one — I’ve been told. Now she’s wearing a band of gold.” (“Peggy Sue Got Married”)
  • “Crying, waiting, hoping, that you’ll come back. You’re the one I love and I think about you all the time.” (“Crying, Waiting, Hoping”)
RELATED STORIES