Ritchie Valens links Perhaps best known for his hit "La Bamba," Ritchie Valens is at least partially responsible for introducing America to Latin-infused rock and roll. A slick-haired rocker of the 1950s, Valens takes his place among the greats with a life that was tragically cut short in a 1959 plane crash with Buddy Holly and the Big Bopper. In addition to "La Bamba," his legacy lives on through his hits, "Donna," and "Come on, Let's Go," and his influence on bands such as Los Lobos. Click on the thumbnail to the right to see Ritchie Valens's Rockwalk Plaque. Click on the thumbnail to the right to see photos of Ritchie Valens.