5. Well…All Right (1958)
As I was making this list, I was rediscovering how influential Holly was. I mean, every song has covers by major superstars—not just little cuts of estoteria I found here and there. Like this one, famously covered by ‘60s supergroup Blind Faith.
Covers:
4. Not Fade Away (1957)
Another song best known not for Holly’s own recording, but for covers. Like the Rolling Stones. And it was Rush’s first single! It was also a staple at Grateful Dead shows for decades, where a simple, 2 minute song would be stretched out for a half hour. It was originally a B-side (to “Oh Boy!”). Final bit of trivia: Paul McCartney owns the publishing. So, when Michael Jackson’s estate gets paid for Hey Jude, McCartney sees bling from this song.
Covers:
3. Rave On (1958)
It wasn’t his biggest single. It wasn’t his most intricate. And he’s not even a credited writer. But no song better captures his joy and love of playing music than this one.
Covers:
2. It’s So Easy! (1958)
Linda Rondstadt sure did love her some Buddy. This was one of two BH songs that were big hits for her. And it never charted for Buddy Holly.
Covers:
1. That’ll Be the Day (1957)
It’s a tough call whether this song or “Peggy Sue” is the quintessential Buddy Holly song, but I have to say I like this one more. And not just because it was the first song the Beatles ever recorded. (Well, The Quarrymen, but close enough.)
Covers:
