Ritchie Valens And The Watch He Wound Before Every Gig, Saying “It’S Not About Time—It’S About Timing”

April 2, 2025

Ritchie Valens was a young musician with dreams as big as the sky. He was born in 1941 in a small town in California, where the sound of guitar strings and the rhythm of rock and roll filled his heart with passion. Ritchie loved music more than anything else; it was his way of expressing himself. Before every gig, he had a special ritual that made him feel grounded and ready. He would take out a small, silver watch his mother had given him for his birthday and carefully wind it up while whispering, “It’s not about time—it’s about timing.” To Ritchie, those words held a deeper meaning; they reminded him that success in music wasn’t just about being in the right place at the right moment, but also about having the courage to seize opportunities when they appeared.

As Ritchie’s career began to take off, he found himself performing in front of increasingly larger audiences. His music, which blended rock and roll with the essence of his Mexican heritage, resonated with young people everywhere. Hits like “La Bamba” and “Donna” showcased his vibrant voice and unique style. The watch became a symbol of his ambition, a reminder that he was destined to shine. Each time he wound the watch, he could feel his excitement building, like the anticipation before the first chord hit the air. It was a small, simple act, but it grounded him, focusing his mind on the power of every moment.

The night of February 3, 1959, was supposed to be just another gig in Ritchie’s young but brilliant career. He had just finished performing at a venue in Clear Lake, Iowa. The crowd was electric, and Ritchie’s heart soared with joy. Before heading to the next destination, he wound his watch one last time, repeating his mantra. But fate had other plans. Ritchie, along with other rock legends Buddy Holly and J.P. “The Big Bopper” Richardson, boarded a small plane. Tragically, the plane crashed just a short while after takeoff, taking the lives of Ritchie and his friends. The news shattered the music world and left fans in mourning.

Though Ritchie’s life ended far too soon, his legacy lived on. His songs continued to inspire generations of musicians and fans. The watch became a symbol of how precious time is, and how important it is to follow your passion while you can. Many young artists looked up to Ritchie, drawing strength from his determination and talent. They remembered his winding watch and the words he cherished: “It’s not about time—it’s about timing.” Ritchie’s story reminded them that every moment spent pursuing their dreams counts, and that the impact of one person can echo through time.

In the years that followed, Ritchie’s music remained alive, resonating with new audiences and reminding all who listened of the power of dreams. His brief but brilliant career taught the world that no matter how short your time may be, it’s the moments you create and the joy you share that truly matter. Ritchie Valens had a spark that could not be extinguished, and his watch, forever wound and ever ticking, became a symbol of hope, determination, and the importance of seizing each precious moment. His music continues to play on, inspiring others to dance, sing, and chase their own dreams.