It’s that time of year again!
The Winter Dance Party is just around the corner, and this year’s lineup promises to be an unforgettable tribute to the past and a celebration of the present. Sixty-five years after the legendary final performance of Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and The Big Bopper at the iconic Surf Ballroom in 1959, musicians from all corners of the globe are gearing up for three exciting days of rock ‘n’ roll.
The Winter Dance Party has long been known for its ability to transport attendees back to the golden era of rock & roll, where timeless melodies and infectious rhythms laid the foundation for generations of musicians to come. This year’s event, taking place from February 1st to February 3rd, will uphold that tradition, paying tribute to the influential figures of the past while showcasing the contemporary talents that carry their legacy forward.
Thursday, February 1, 2024:
Chris Montez (influenced by Hispanic culture and the rock ‘n’ roll success of Ritchie Valens), The Chiffons (their sassy flair made them one of the top girl groups of the early ’60s with hits like “One Fine Day”), Dodie Stevens (best known for her hit “Pink Shoe Laces”), and The Killer Vees (known as the “rhythm section to the stars,” they’ve performed, recorded and/or toured with a who’s who of Rock ‘n’ Roll Royalty).
Friday, February 2, 2024:
Rocky & The Rollers (their show takes you back in time to the great sound of Doo Wop and ’50s rock ‘n roll), La La Brooks (lead singer of the 60s girls group The Crystals with hits “Then He Kissed Me” and “Da Doo Ron Ron”), Vito Picone and The Elegants (the “Little Star” singers toured with Buddy Holly), Richie Lee & The Fabulous 50’s (a high energy show that will take you back to the roots of rock ‘n’ roll history).
Saturday, February 3, 2024:
Slim Jim Phantom (the drummer from the Stray Cats who helped introduce a generation to rockabilly), The Lettermen (soft, romantic harmonic blends “The Way You Look Tonight” and “When I Fall in Love”), Albert Lee (one of the most respected and renowned guitarists in music history), Marshall Crenshaw (beloved singer-songwriter & guitarist who played Buddy Holly in La Bamba), Jennie Vee (songwriter, guitarist, & bassist), Blondie Chaplin (15 years as backing vocalist and guitar player for the Rolling Stones), Glen Matlock (original bass guitarist for The Sex Pistols), Gilby Clarke (3 year tenure as rhythm guitarist of Guns N’ Roses) and Austin Allsup (top-10 Finalist on “The Voice” and son of Tommy Allsup who played guitar with Buddy Holly during the 1959 Winter Dance Party tour and regular performer at the Surf until his death in 2017. After performing in his father’s place that year, Austin instantly became a part of the Winter Dance Party family and has returned to the Surf every year since!).
Mark your calendars, dust off your dancing shoes, and get ready to embark on a musical journey: Winter Dance Party 2024 will be an event to remember!
Tickets go on sale Thursday, November 16th! Click here to be directed to the Surf’s box office.