| Subject: Remembering Jay Richardson, aka Big Bopper Jr. |
Author:
Randy Steele
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Date Posted: Sun August 21, 2022 19:31:56
Nine years ago today, my dear friend Jay Richardson passed away at the age of 54. Jay was the son of 1950’s rock-n-roll legend J.P. “The Big Bopper” Richardson and he himself was known professionally as Big Bopper Jr.
Jay came into the world on April 28, 1959, just 84 days after a plane crash had taken the life of his father, the legendary J.P. “The Big Bopper” Richardson. Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and pilot Roger Peterson also perished in the crash.
Jay spent part of his life speaking with family, friends, and people in the music industry all in an effort to discover more information about his dad. Jay eventually became a performer himself, traveling around the world as party of John Mueller’s “Winter Dance Party”, an incredible musical tribute to the 1959 Winter Dance Party, the final tour of the Big Bopper, Ritchie Valens, and Buddy Holly. Jay shared with me many times that in his quest to learn more about his dad, there was no question that he felt closest to his dad than when he himself was on stage, performing his father’s songs .
He never took that moment for granted and he was forever grateful for the fan’s appreciation of his dad’s life and music. Unfortunately, just like his dad, Jay was taken from this world all too soon. Jay Richardson was a son, brother,husband, father, and friend. He was simply an amazing guy. He loved his family dearly and would be incredibly proud of them today.
He was also my friend and I loved him. I believe no man had a bigger or better laugh than Jay. It was a loud, deep, heartfelt belly laugh. His voicemail greeting was very loud too and deep with a huge echo and scared me at times and that made Jay laugh. Just being in his presence made you laugh and feel better. I will always miss seeing him on stage or talking to him on the telephone or just hanging out with him.
No matter where I go, Jay’s spirit remains with me. I’ve had a thousand conversations with him since he left. I hope he has heard how much I miss him, that I still love him, and how grateful I was to have been close to him. I still miss you. I’m hoping you and your dad are rocking out in heaven.
Until we meet again my friend.
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