February 2, 1959, the day the world lost three music legends: Buddy Holly, J.P. “The Big Bopper” Richardson, and Ritchie Valens. The men had played their final concert at the Surf Ballroom before crashing in an airplane north of Clear Lake, and 60 years later the Surf continues their annual tribute to the three fallen stars.
The Chamber Crew chats with Surf Ballroom Executive Director Laurie Lietz about the past, present, and future of this annual event that draws musicians and fans to Clear Lake, Iowa from across the globe each winter.