Buddy Holly in 1957. Photo courtesy of Brunswick Records.

“The Day the Music Died” the world lost a rock ‘n’ roll pioneer, but Buddy Holly’s legacy and music live on. With a small jaunt down I-70, you can take a trip back in time to relive Buddy’s revolutionary career.

Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story opens with Buddy signing his first record deal and follows his musical journey to the top of the charts. Featuring hits such as “That’ll Be the Day” and “Peggy Sue,” the musical showcases Buddy’s influence on music. Although his career only lasted a few years, he inspired everyone from Bob Dylan and The Beatles to Elvis Presley and The Rolling Stones. Too bad none of them ever made a name for themselves. His inspiration continues today as well, because you’re probably already singing that Weezer song in your head. “Woo-ee-oo, I look just like Buddy Holly.” You’re welcome.

The musical ends on February 3rd, 1959, the day that Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens and the Big Bopper died in a plane crash in Iowa. Similar to Titanic, we all know its tragic end but it’s well worth following the incredible journey along the way.

Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story is currently playing through Aug. 31 at the Arrow Rock Lyceum Theatre, 114 High St., in Arrow Rock. Performances are Wed. and Thurs. at 2 p.m.; Fri. and Sat. at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.; Sun. 2 p.m. For more information and for tickets, please visit the Lyceum Theatre website.