The Day The Music Died

Many people say "the music died" February 3, 1959, when rock and roll musicians Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens and  J.P "The Big Bopper" Richardson died in a plane crash near Clear Lake, Iowa.  Others, of course, remember Elvis' passing on August 16, 1977 as the day the music died.

For me, the day the music died was 33 years ago today - November 12, 1981.  Although I've lost loved ones since, no ones passing affected me as much as when Burl Strevel died. 

I credit him, his love, his friendship, and his music with The Blue Ridge Quartet for making me the man I am today.  Others have shared similar thoughts with me - "He was loved and he also was a GREAT MAN!!"  "Great Man and Great Entertainer..They don't make People like this anymore..."  "We could use a world full of Burl Strevel's !!!"  "Burl always had a smile and word for everybody. I have seen him take rough situations they were handed and turn them into winners time and time again.!" 

Thank you, to his family, for sharing this wonderful man with me, and with all of the Blue Ridge Quartet's fans.  My thoughts are with you today, and always.  May this last thought, from my friend Robbie bring you peace:  "I've said it 100 times...if Burl Strevel didn't make it to Heaven, not much use in the rest of us trying."

The music and memories live on - visit fellow fans at
Blue Ridge Quartet Fans, Friends, and Family