The Musical Journey of a Rising Star
1959. With the tragic crash of Buddy Holly’s plane, a bright new star from Fargo emerged. Fifteen-year-old Bobby Velline performed at the Winter Dance Party in Moorhead, MN the day the music died. Bobby went on to record his first hit single, Suzie Baby, in Minneapolis – and soon would become a teen idol appearing on American Bandstand with Dick Clark and an international star who thrilled audiences for more than a decade with Top 40 hits like Devil or Angel, The Night Has A Thousand Eyes, Come Back When You Grow Up Girl, Take Good Care of My Baby and many more. Follow Bobby’s musical journey that includes fellow pop stars like Little Anthony & The Imperials, Ronnie & The Ronettes, Dion, and Del Shannon.
Did You Know?
Early in Vee’s career, a musician named Elston Gunnn [sic] briefly toured with the band. “Gunnn” later went on to fame as Bob Dylan.
Reviews are in:
- “Teen Idol” at History Theatre fits to a Vee (Pioneer Press, 10/3/16)
- American idol Bobby Vee rocks once more (Star Tribune, 10/5/16)
- A fantastic show no matter your generation (cherryandspoon.com , 10/10/16)
- Certainly worth a spin on the turntable (talkingbroadway.com)
Learn more about Teen Idol: The Bobby Vee Story:
- Bobby Vee’s Life Turned into a Play (MPR with Cathy Wurzer, 10/17/16)
- Playing Bobby Vee caps amazing run for actor Tod Petersen
- “Teen Idol” honors Bobby Vee’s legacy
- Teen Idol: The Bobby Vee story at History Theatre
Learn more about Bobby and Karen:
- Vee’s family hangs on to the memories (St. Cloud Times, 9/17/16)
- Take Time Today: Cherish Bobby Vee’s Music (St. Cloud Times)
- Karen Velline: In the Shadow of Bobby Vee (Joetown Story)
Watch Teen Idol interviews and scene:
- Interview: Tyler Michaels and George Maurer (Musical Arranger)
- Scene: Bus Medley (with introduction by George Maurer)
Watch Bobby Vee’s music videos:
- The Night Has a Thousand Eyes (Just for Fun)
- Run to Him (American Bandstand)
- Take Good Care of My Baby (Sha Na Na)
