Ritchie Valens: The Complete Ritchie Valens

Rating:
Summary: Ricardo's Music Will Never Die
Review: I just finished watching this DVD on February 3,2001, the 42nd anniversary of Ricardo's death in that plane. Even though he died before I was born, I really felt connected to Ricardo, because his music was from his heart and soul and you can feel it through his singing and playing his guitar. This DVD also had interviews with his family and Bob Keane; also musicians and people who had known him during his short life. I was so interested to hear how he really grew up (NOT like the movie "La Bamba") and to hear from the people who he loved and who loved him. His was a God-given talent; and that's why his music lives on and will continue to do so until the end of this world. This DVD is a MUST HAVE for any fan of Ricardo's. I know that others who listen to and view this DVD will soon become a fan of Ricardo. Many, many THANKS to all who contributed to this DVD, for sharing Ricardo with us, his loving fans...Mary

Rating:
Summary: WONDERFUL DOCUMENTARY!
Review: I thought this was a superior and very accurate documentary about the Real Ritchie Valens. He and his family had a HARD life: His father died at the age of 10, leaving the mother to have to work 2 jobs. He worked like HELL to get the small taste of the American Dream that was so unfairly, untimely taken away from him and his family. This documentary will make you want to appreciate the desire to improve your life if you are financially unfortunate.

Ritchie was so poor that he had to almost train himself on playing the guitar. His family and friends were always right behind him throughout his life. Hearing about Bob Keane's mishaps in the record business before working hard to create the company that discovered Valens was motivational and you still get a sense that the movie/music industry being crooked isn't a new concept. But the difference is that many artists back then didn't get professional advice when trying to get their hard earned $$.

The scene where the family recalls the hell that they went throug with the grief they have held all these years. I lost my brother 3 years ago as violently as Ritchie's death and the video all brought back memories to me. Just be prepared that if you have lost a friend or loved one, especially to a violent death then you might want to take it easy when it gets to the track talking about the aftermath. I had some tears forming by my eyes when I was listening to Ritchie's older brother Bob talking about his reactions when he heard the news Ritchie had been killed.

But do watch this DVD, and if you are in the mood check out the book "Ritchie Valens:The First Latino Rocker" by Beverly Mendheim.

Rating:
Summary: Who is Marshall Fine, Larry Fine's brother?
Review: Someone needs to explain to Marshall Fine, whoever that is, that Richie Valens was not 21 years old when he died - he was 17! Welcome to the planet Marshall.
George Wood

Rating:
Summary: The Complete RV is COMPLETE!
Review: This really is the ultimate package for Ritchie Valens fans. It features interviews with all of his family, artists who performed with him, DJs, Bob Keane of Del-Fi Records, extensive crash info. Not only do you get the 161 minute DVD documentary, but 28 of his songs as an audio feature. Full color booklet inside is great bonus...what more can I say - it is fantastic! Limited Edition probably means you should get it while you can.

The only negative thing I can say about it is that the music buries the interviews in most points, otherwise - perfecto!