|
Donald's Encyclopedia of Popular MusicA B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y ZBIG BOPPER, The(b Jape Richardson, 24 Oct. '30, Sabine Pass TX; d 3 Feb. '59, Iowa) Disc jockey in Beaumont TX; used name of J. P. Richardson. After army service '55, determined to regain leading position as regional disc jockey, he broadcast continuously for more than 122 hours, breaking a record. Wrote songs for friends; 'Running Bear' no. 1 for Johnny Preston after J. P.'s death. Own records under the name Big Bopper: 'Chantilly Lace' no. 6 '58; 'Big Bopper's Wedding' hit chart same year. On tour with Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, all killed in plane crash. |