Ritchie Valens And The Laugh Caught Between Takes Of Come On, Let’S Go

April 2, 2025

The lights dimmed in the small recording studio, and Ritchie Valens shifted nervously in his chair. It was 1958, and the seventeen-year-old had already made a name for himself in the world of rock and roll with hits like “La Bamba.” Today, they were working on “Come On, Let’s Go,” a song filled with excitement and energy. As the band prepared to record, Ritchie felt a mix of anxiety and thrill. This song was special to him; it captured the spirit of youthful fun and the joy of being alive.

With the first notes ringing out, Ritchie poured his heart into the music. He loved seeing how his words could make people feel alive, just like he did. But just as he finished one take, a string on his guitar snapped with a loud twang. The sudden noise broke the tension in the studio. Ritchie couldn’t help but laugh, a rich, infectious laugh that filled the room. The band joined in, and for a moment, the serious work of recording melted away into laughter and light-hearted jokes. It was a reminder of why they were there—to create music that brought joy to people, including themselves.

After the laughter faded, Ritchie wiped away a tear of joy and took a deep breath, returning to the task at hand. It wasn’t always easy for him. As a young Mexican-American artist, he faced many challenges, including discrimination and the pressure to conform to the musical norms of the time. But moments like these reminded him of why he started making music in the first place. He wanted to tell his story and inspire others like him. Each note he played was a piece of his identity, woven into the fabric of rock and roll.

As they recorded multiple takes, Ritchie’s passion emerged even more. His voice soared with every verse, and the joy of that laughter lingered in the air, providing a sense of camaraderie. When they finally played back the finished version of “Come On, Let’s Go,” it was clear that the essence of that joyous moment had been captured. The song became a hit, propelling Ritchie’s career to new heights, and it resonated with fans across the country.

But the road to success was not without its bumps. Tragically, Ritchie’s life was cut short in a plane crash just a year later, along with other musicians. Yet, the laughter they shared in that studio became a part of his legacy. It was a reminder of the joy that music can bring and how in fleeting moments of happiness, we find our strength. Ritchie Valens may have left this world too soon, but his spirit and passion for music continue to inspire generations. His story shows us that even in the face of adversity, laughter and resilience can lead to something beautiful.