Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

Bobby Vee

Bobby Vee (born Robert Thomas Velline; April 30, 1943 – October 24, 2016) was an singer and songwriter renowned as a teen idol during the early era, with a career spanning over five decades and featuring 38 chart entries, including six gold singles and two gold albums. Best known for his smooth, melodic pop-rock style and hits like "Take Good Care of My Baby," which reached number one on the in 1961, Vee drew inspiration from and recorded over 25 albums while collaborating with songwriters such as , , and . Born in , to a musical family—his father, Sidney, played and , and his brothers were also musicians—Vee initially learned before switching to guitar at age 15, influenced by country and emerging rock sounds. His professional breakthrough came on February 3, 1959, when, at 15 years old, he and his band filled in for , , and at a in , just hours after their fatal plane crash; a local radio DJ had spotted the group and invited them to perform. This performance led to his debut single "Suzie Baby" later that year on a small Minnesota label, which gained regional success and caught the attention of . Notably, a teenage (then using the pseudonym Elston Gunnn) briefly played in Vee's early band during this formative period. Vee signed with in 1959, launching a 17-year tenure under producer that produced 14 top-40 hits on the , including "Devil or Angel" (number six, 1960), "" (number two, 1960), "Run to Him" (number two, 1961), "The Night Has a Thousand Eyes" (number three, 1963), and "Come Back When You Grow Up" (number three, 1967). His recordings often featured live studio energy and crossed over to the charts with seven top-10 singles, such as "Take Good Care of My Baby" (number three) and "" (number four). Vee also collaborated with on the 1962 album Bobby Vee Meets the Crickets and later formed The Vees with his sons Jeff, Tommy, and Robby, performing family-oriented shows into the 2000s. In recognition of his contributions to music and his North Dakota roots, Vee received the Theodore Roosevelt Rough Rider Award—the state's highest honor for distinguished natives—from Governor Ed Schafer on June 20, 1999. He married Karen Bergen on December 28, 1963, and the couple had three sons and a daughter; his wife Karen died in 2015. Following his 2011 diagnosis of early-onset Alzheimer's disease and subsequent retirement, Vee and his family moved into their winter home in Tucson, Arizona. Vee passed away from Alzheimer's complications on October 24, 2016, at his home in Rogers, Minnesota, at age 73, leaving a legacy as a versatile entertainer who bridged teen pop and enduring rock standards.

Early life

Family and childhood

Robert Thomas Velline, professionally known as Bobby Vee, was born on April 30, 1943, in Fargo, North Dakota, to parents of Norwegian and Finnish immigrant heritage. His father, Sidney Ronald Velline, worked as a professional chef and short-order cook in a downtown Fargo café, while also being an amateur musician on the violin and piano. His mother, Saima Cecilia Tapanila, supported the family in their modest household. Vee grew up as the youngest of three sons in a close-knit family, with two older brothers, Bill and Sidney Jr., who shared the household's musical inclinations but also contributed to a supportive dynamic during his early years. The Velline family resided in a small home in Fargo, reflecting the working-class environment of the Midwestern city, where community ties and family gatherings were central to daily life. Sidney's occupation provided stability, allowing the family to navigate the post-World War II economic landscape of . During his childhood, Vee experienced the typical rhythms of Fargo's local scene, including cold winters and a tight-knit neighborhood that fostered outdoor activities and simple pastimes. He developed an early through a paper route, saving earnings for personal pursuits that highlighted his resourcefulness. As a precursor to later interests, Vee took up the in high school, blending youthful curiosity with the family's creative atmosphere.

Musical beginnings

Vee's interest in music was nurtured in a family environment rich with musical talent, where his father played and , his uncle , and his brothers guitar, encouraging his early pursuits. At age 15, while attending Fargo Central High School in , Vee began learning to play the in the , though he soon gravitated toward influences over the standard repertoire. In spring 1958, Vee, then 15, formed his first band with his older brother Bill on guitar, schoolmates Jim Stillman on bass, and Bob Korum on drums, initially practicing in a basement before adopting the name . The group, later adding Dick Dunkirk on bass, quickly became a fixture in the local scene, performing covers of popular hits by artists like , , , and at high school events and community gatherings. These early performances in the Fargo-Moorhead area of the Midwest allowed Vee to hone his skills as and performer, building a modest following among peers prior to any national exposure. The Shadows' energetic sets at local dances and venues emphasized Vee's budding stage presence and the band's tight instrumentation, laying the groundwork for their regional reputation.

Career

Rise to fame after Buddy Holly's death

On February 3, 1959, a chartered airplane crashed shortly after takeoff near , killing rock and roll musicians , , and J.P. "The Big Bopper" Richardson, as well as the pilot Roger Peterson, while they were en route to a scheduled performance at the Moorhead Armory in , as part of the Winter Dance Party tour. The tragedy, later immortalized as "the day the music died" in Don McLean's song "," left organizers scrambling to fill the bill for that evening's concert. Fifteen-year-old Robert Thomas Velline, known as Bobby Vee, a high school student from nearby Fargo, North Dakota, stepped in to perform alongside his hastily assembled band, The Shadows, whom he had formed earlier with school friends to play covers of popular rock and roll acts. Vee, a fan of Holly who knew many of his songs by heart, took the stage that night despite his nervousness, delivering a set that included Buddy Holly tunes and other hits to an audience mourning the lost stars. The performance, under the intense spotlight of the recent tragedy, garnered immediate local media coverage and praise for the young performer's poise and talent, marking Vee's unexpected public debut. This exposure propelled Vee's early career forward, leading to his first single, "Suzie Baby," which he co-wrote as a nod to Holly's style and recorded in June 1959. Released that summer on the Minneapolis-based Records label, the upbeat track about a teenage romance received on local radio stations and helped solidify Vee's emerging presence in the music scene.

Major hits and recording style

Bobby Vee signed with in 1959, marking the beginning of a prolific recording career that yielded 38 entries on the between 1959 and 1970. His breakthrough came with "Devil or Angel" in 1960, which peaked at No. 6 and showcased his smooth, emotive vocals over a gentle rock arrangement. This was followed by in 1961, reaching No. 6 and highlighting Vee's ability to deliver upbeat, melodic pop-rock with a youthful energy. Vee's commercial peak arrived in 1961 with "Take Good Care of My Baby," a No. 1 hit for three weeks, penned by songwriters and ; the song's heartfelt lyrics and orchestral backing exemplified his knack for romantic ballads that resonated with teenage audiences. Other top 10 successes included "Run to Him" (No. 2, 1961, also by Goffin and Jack Keller) and "The Night Has a Thousand Eyes" (No. 3, 1963), both drawing from the 's assembly-line songcraft of catchy hooks and relatable themes of love and longing. These tracks, along with mid-chart performers like "Sharing You" (No. 15, 1962), solidified his status with six gold singles overall. Vee's recording style epitomized the clean-cut archetype of early 1960s pop-rock, blending influences with polished production that emphasized his clear and sincere delivery. Often backed by session musicians like the Wrecking Crew, his sessions favored accessible arrangements—acoustic guitars, subtle drums, and strings—to create an innocent, radio-friendly sound that appealed to a post-rock 'n' roll generation seeking escapist romance. This approach, rooted in collaborations with talents, positioned Vee as a bridge between 1950s and the , prioritizing emotional accessibility over edginess.

Key collaborations and influences

One of Bobby Vee's earliest notable collaborations occurred in 1959, when he hired a young —then performing under the stage name Elston Gunnn—to play piano for his band, , during a brief Midwest tour. This short-lived partnership marked Dylan's first paid musical gig, as Vee recruited him after meeting in a Fargo record store, though Dylan was soon let go due to mismatched playing style. In 1962, Vee teamed up with , the backing band of his idol , for the album Bobby Vee Meets the Crickets, which featured covers of Holly classics like "Peggy Sue" and "Bo Diddley" alongside other 1950s rock standards. Produced by and released on Liberty Records, the project highlighted Vee's vocal similarities to Holly and helped sustain the band's relevance post-Holly's death. Their connection came in 2013, when performed Vee's 1959 hit "Suzie Baby" as a during a concert at in St. Paul, Minnesota, with Vee in attendance. praised Vee as "the most meaningful person I've ever been onstage with," crediting the early support for shaping his own career beginnings. Vee's style was profoundly shaped by following the 1959 plane crash that claimed Holly's life, prompting Vee to emulate Holly's vocal hiccups, rhythmic phrasing, and energy in his recordings and performances. This influence was evident from Vee's debut single "Suzie Baby," which echoed Holly's sound, and persisted throughout his early career as a means to honor and extend Holly's legacy.

Later career and retirement

Following the of the mid-1960s, which shifted musical tastes toward British acts like , Bobby Vee's chart success declined significantly, with his last entry occurring in 1970. Despite this, Vee continued recording and performing steadily through the 1970s and 1980s, releasing singles on smaller labels like Shady Brook Records. He focused increasingly on live shows, particularly overseas tours in and , where audiences remained enthusiastic for his early rock 'n' roll style. In 1980, Vee relocated his family from to , seeking a quieter life while maintaining his career through local performances and community involvement. There, he and his wife Karen established Rockhouse Productions and organized annual concerts, including the long-running "Bobby Vee Birthday Bash," which supported local charities and drew thousands of fans annually into the 2000s. Vee also collaborated with his sons Jeff, Tommy, and Robby—members of The Vees—on family-oriented shows, blending his classic hits with contemporary arrangements to sustain his presence on the regional circuit. Vee's career persisted into the early with occasional recordings, including the 2014 album The Adobe Sessions, his final release featuring original songs and covers produced amid personal challenges. In 2011, following a diagnosis of , Vee announced his retirement from performing, culminating in a in , attended by 15,000 to 18,000 people. This event marked the end of over five decades of active music-making, though Vee occasionally engaged in therapeutic music sessions privately thereafter.

Personal life

Marriage and family

Bobby Vee married Karen Bergen on December 28, 1963, in . The couple remained together for over 51 years until Karen's death from on August 2, 2015. Vee and Bergen had four children: sons Jeffery Robert, Thomas Paul, and Robert Bryon, and daughter Jennifer Joanne. Several family members pursued careers in music, with sons and Velline forming the tribute band The Killer Vees alongside relatives including grandson Bennett Velline. The family initially resided in , , during the height of Vee's career, before relocating in the early 1980s to the St. Cloud area of to raise their children. In their new home near St. Joseph, Vee and his wife became active in community fundraising efforts for local Catholic schools.

Illness and death

In 2011, Bobby Vee was diagnosed with at the age of 67, which prompted him to complete his remaining tour obligations and gradually withdraw from public performances. Following his diagnosis, Vee and his family relocated to a winter home in , in 2011, where they recorded family music as part of his healing process. His final public concert took place on July 3, 2011, after which he focused on private family life amid the disease's progression. The condition, which affects memory and cognitive function, led Vee to enter a memory care facility in his later years, where he resided for the final 13 months of his life. Vee passed away on October 24, 2016, at the age of 73, due to complications from advanced while in care at the Wellstead of Rogers & Diamondcrest memory care facility in . His son, Jeff Velline, confirmed the death and noted that the family had been preparing for this outcome, expressing gratitude for the support from fans and the medical team during his father's battle with the illness. Following his death, Vee's family organized a public visitation on November 1, 2016, at St. John the Baptist Parish in , , and a Mass the next day at St. John's Abbey Church in Collegeville, , where hundreds of mourners, including family and longtime friends, gathered to honor his legacy as a and family man. The service featured an instrumental rendition of his hit "Take Good Care of My Baby," reflecting the joy he brought to others despite his health struggles.

Awards and honors

Major awards

Bobby Vee received the Rough Rider Award on June 20, 1999, North Dakota's highest honor for native sons and daughters who have made significant contributions to the state and gained national or international acclaim. The award recognized Vee's enduring impact as a musician from , whose career brought widespread attention to his home state through decades of performances and recordings. Vee earned gold certifications for six singles, reflecting over one million units sold each according to industry standards of the era, based on his major hits from the early 1960s. These include "Devil or Angel" (1961), "Rubber Ball" (1961), "Take Good Care of My Baby" (1961), "Run to Him" (1961), "The Night Has a Thousand Eyes" (1963), and "Come Back When You Grow Up" (1967). He also received a gold certification from the (BPI) for his The Bobby Vee Singles Album in 1980, for sales exceeding 100,000 units in the . His chart success, with 38 entries on the and 14 Top 40 hits, formed the foundation for these sales-driven recognitions. Additional lifetime achievement honors highlighted Vee's popularity and consistency as a recording artist. Billboard Magazine named him one of the top ten most consistent chart-makers in history. In the early 1990s, the music publication The Beat Goes On awarded him Best American Act in 1991, Best Live Performer in 1992, Favorite Male Singer in 1993, and runner-up for Most Accomplished Performer in 1994.

Hall of Fame inductions

Bobby Vee was inducted into the Music Hall of Fame in 1992, recognizing his early contributions to the state's music scene as a teen idol who rose to prominence in the late 1950s. In 2005, Vee and his band, the Original Shadows, were honored with induction into the Minnesota Rock & Country Hall of Fame, celebrating their role in shaping regional sounds during the early . Vee received induction into the Hall of Fame in 2009, acknowledging his string of chart-topping hits that defined the landscape of the era. On March 28, 2011, he became the 235th inductee into the , honoring his rockabilly-influenced recordings and live performances that bridged and the genre's roots. In 2014, Vee was inducted into the Scandinavian-American Hall of Fame, a recognition that highlighted his heritage as Robert Thomas Velline and his contributions to American culture through music.

Legacy

Cultural impact

Bobby Vee emerged as a prominent figure in the early teen pop scene, embodying a clean-cut, wholesome image that contrasted with the edgier, more rebellious rock 'n' roll trends gaining traction at the time. His upbeat, accessible songs like "Take Good Care of My Baby" and "" appealed directly to teenage audiences, positioning him among the era's "Bobbys"—a group of young, photogenic performers whose polished style emphasized melody and innocence over raw intensity. This approach helped bridge the gap between and the pop sensibilities that would dominate mid-decade charts, offering a safe, radio-friendly alternative amid shifting musical landscapes. Vee's influence extended to inspiring subsequent artists, most notably through his indirect role in shaping Bob 's early career trajectory. In 1959, a teenage , then known as Elston Gunnn, briefly joined Vee's band as a pianist in , after approaching Vee's brother with claims of prior experience; however, Dylan's limited skills—he played only in the key of C and relied on handclaps for other keys—led to a short tenure. later praised Vee's voice as "musical as a silver bell," underscoring the lasting admiration that influenced his own pivot toward performance. Vee's deep ties to the North Dakota and Minnesota music scenes fostered regional growth through consistent local performances and community initiatives. His debut at the Moorhead Armory in Minnesota on February 3, 1959—filling in for Buddy Holly hours after the plane crash—catapulted him from a Fargo high school band to a local staple, inspiring ongoing engagement in the area's venues. In the 1980s, Vee organized the annual "Rockin’ Around the Clock" fundraiser at his children's high school in Minnesota, securing top talent for events that raised over $1 million to support music and arts facilities for local youth. This commitment extended to mentoring family members, as his sons formed The Vees to back him for nearly 100 shows annually in the 1990s, bolstering the Midwest's live music culture.

Posthumous tributes and recognition

Following Bobby Vee's death on October 24, 2016, his family has organized annual tribute concerts under the banner "Remembering Bobby Vee," performed by The Killer Vees, a band featuring his sons Jeff and Tommy Vee, nephew Matt Vee and his wife Julie Velline, grandson Bennett Vee, and longtime collaborator George Maurer. These events celebrate Vee's life and music through performances of his hits and stories from his career, often evoking the and rock 'n' roll era. The shows began shortly after his passing and have continued as a regional touring production. One early highlight was the February 9, 2019, performance at the Fargo Theatre in , near Vee's hometown of , where he first gained notice in 1959 by filling in for . The concert drew local audiences reflecting on Vee's roots in the . The tributes have persisted into the , with performances scheduled across the . In 2025, The Killer Vees presented the show on June 15 at the Roof Garden Ballroom in Arnolds Park, , as part of the Boomers & Crooners Concert Series, reviving hits like "Take Good Care of My Baby" and "Devil or Angel." Additional family-led events that year included Matt Vee performing on September 6 in Oak Grove, , Robby Vee performing on October 19 in , alongside a Malt Shop Memories Cruise appearance in November featuring Matt Vee and The Killer Vees. These ongoing concerts underscore the family's commitment to preserving Vee's legacy through live music. Publications have also honored Vee's memory. In 2020, author Mark Munger published "The Legacy of Bobby Vee" in the Finnish American Reporter, an interview with son Vee that explored Bobby Vee's heritage—tracing his maternal grandfather's immigration from Pyhäjärvi, , in 1900—and his embodiment of through a career spanning 38 chart hits and six gold records, from his teen debut to retirement in 2011 due to . The piece highlighted Vee's determination and cultural ties. Commemorations marked the ninth anniversary of Vee's death in 2025, including a reflective article by entertainment historian Herbie J. Pilato published on , which recounted Vee's rise to fame and impact on , emphasizing his hits and the personal toll of Alzheimer's. Family performances in that fall, such as Robby Vee's October show in Anoka, served as informal tributes around the date, blending music with remembrance.

Discography

Studio albums

Bobby Vee's debut studio album, Bobby Vee Sings Your Favorites, was released in September 1960 through . It featured covers of popular songs and highlighted his early appeal. In 1961, Vee issued Bobby Vee Sings Hits of the Rockin' 50's, a collection of covers from the previous decade's rock 'n' roll era, with standout renditions of "," "A Thousand Stars," and "," showcasing his ability to reinterpret classics for a new generation. That year also saw the release of Bobby Vee with Strings and Things, emphasizing orchestral arrangements. Vee's output continued in 1962 with Take Good Care of My Baby, centered on his signature number-one hit of the same name, alongside tracks like "How Many Tears" and "Stayin' Sad.") A Bobby Vee Recording Session offered live-in-studio recordings, including "What's Your Name" and "Your Baby's Gone Away." In December 1962, the holiday-themed Merry Christmas from Bobby Vee featured festive covers such as "Jingle Bell Rock" and originals like "Christmas Kisses." That year also included the collaboration album Bobby Vee Meets the Crickets, blending Vee's style with their sound on songs including "Peggy Sue" and "Everyday," though primarily a joint studio effort. In 1963, The Night Has a Thousand Eyes was released, named after its title track hit, and included "Temptation" and "Forever.") Later releases included Come Back When You Grow Up in 1967) and Just Today in 1968. After a period of shifting musical trends, Vee returned with Run Like the Devil in 1970 on , a more mature effort incorporating country-rock elements, featuring the title track and "The Story of Mary," reflecting his evolution beyond . Throughout his career, Vee's studio albums emphasized accessible melodies and covers alongside originals, contributing to his enduring catalog of over a dozen releases primarily with .

Charting singles

Bobby Vee recorded 38 singles that charted on the between 1959 and 1985, establishing him as a consistent presence in the pop charts during the early era and beyond. His commercial success included six gold-certified singles, denoting sales of one million units each: "Take Good Care of My Baby" (1961), "" (1961), "" (1961), "The Night Has a Thousand Eyes" (1963), "Come Back When You Grow Up" (1967), and "Stayin' In" (1972, regional certification). Several of these tracks also performed strongly on international charts, particularly in the UK, where Vee amassed ten top-40 entries. B-sides occasionally charted independently, contributing to his overall tally and showcasing the double-sided appeal of his releases. The table below details Vee's Billboard Hot 100 charting singles, organized chronologically by year of peak, with peak positions, notable B-sides (and their peaks where applicable), and select international notes.
YearTitlePeak (US Hot 100)B-sideB-side Peak (US Hot 100)Notable International
1959Suzie Baby77Flyin' High
1960What Do You Want93My Love Loves Me
1960Devil or Angel6Since I Met You Baby81 No. 2
1961Rubber Ball6Everyday No. 4
1961Stayin' In3361 No. 4 (double-sided)
1961How Many Tears63Baby Face No. 10
1961Take Good Care of My Baby1Bashful Bob No. 3
1961Run to Him2Walkin' with My Angel53 No. 6
1962Please Don't Ask About Barbara15I Can't Say Goodbye92 No. 3
1962Sharing You15In My Baby's Eyes No. 10
1962Punish Her20Someday (When I'm Gone from You)99
1962The Night Has a Thousand Eyes3Anonymous Phone Call No. 3; No. 2
1963Charms13Bobby Tomorrow No. 21
1963Be True to Yourself34A Letter from Betty85 No. 15
1963The Girl of My Best Friend55
1963Never Love a Robin99Yesterday and You55
1964I'll Make You Mine83She's Sorry
1964Stranger in Your Arms521963
1964Hickory, Dick and Doc63I Wish You Were Mine Again No. 18
1964Maybe It's You63
1964Pretend You Don't See Her97Cross My Heart99
196584
1965Keep On Trying85You Won't Forget Me
1966Look at Me Girl52Save a Love No. 53
1967Come Back When You Grow Up3That's All in the Past No. 2
1967Beautiful People37I May Be Gone No. 19
1968Maybe Just Today46You're a Big Girl Now No. 35
1968Medley: My Girl/Hey Girl35Just Keep It Up No. 7
1968Do What You Gotta Do83 No. 62
1968(I'm Into Lookin' For) Someone to Love Me98 No. 84
1969Let's Call It a Day Girl92I'm Gonna Make It Up to You No. 79
1970Sweet Sweetheart88 Music and You
1972Stayin' In (reissue)Regional gold
1975When She Was My Girl99
198599
This compilation accounts for Vee's 38 Hot 100 entries, with double-sided hits and independent B-side chartings included where they reached the top 100 separately. Many of these singles appeared on his studio albums, such as Take Good Care of My Baby and The Night Has a Thousand Eyes.

Film and television

Feature films

Bobby Vee appeared in four feature films during his career, primarily in musical cameos or supporting roles that showcased his singing talents alongside the era's pop and rock scenes. His film debut came in Swingin' Along (1961), directed by Charles Barton, where he portrayed himself in a musical performance segment. In this lighthearted comedy about a young songwriter entering a contest, Vee contributed a vibrant rendition of "," adding to the film's ensemble of performers including and adding a teen idol flair to the proceedings. In 1962, Vee featured as himself in the British musical Play It Cool, directed by and starring as an aspiring performer navigating the music industry. Vee's cameo included a performance of "At a Time Like This," integrated into the film's narrative of young talent seeking success in , alongside other guest artists like . This appearance helped bridge American and British pop cultures during the early music boom. Vee's next film was the 1963 British production Just for Fun, directed by , a satirical comedy about teenagers forming a ahead of an election. Appearing as himself in a , Vee performed songs such as "The " and "All You Gotta Do Is Touch Me," energizing the film's youth-oriented plot and featuring alongside acts like and to appeal to the emerging teen voting demographic. His final feature film role was a starring turn in C'mon, Let's Live a Little (1967), directed by David Butler, where he played Jesse Crawford, an singer who enrolls in college and aids a duo amid campus unrest while romancing the dean's daughter, played by . In this romantic musical drama, Vee's character uses his musical skills to resolve conflicts, performing original songs that highlighted his versatility beyond into folk-influenced territory.

Television appearances

Bobby Vee frequently appeared on prominent American music variety programs during the early to promote his hit singles, establishing him as a staple of television. He made eight guest spots on between August 1960 and December 1970, performing songs such as "Run to Him" in 1965 and "The Night Has a Thousand Eyes" on the December 26, 1964 episode. Vee also performed on Shindig!, including numbers like "Cross My Heart" and "Early in the Morning" during its 1964–1966 run on . Other notable 1960s appearances included a Go-Go, where he sang "" in 1965, and guest spots on The Show and . In the 1970s, Vee continued to make occasional television performances, highlighted by his appearance on The Midnight Special on February 15, 1974, as part of a "Golden Oldies" episode hosted by Roy Orbison, where he delivered renditions of "Take Good Care of My Baby," "Devil or Angel," and "The Night Has a Thousand Eyes." Later in his career, Vee featured in retrospective programming, including the American Masters episode : in 2005, performing "Suzie Baby" in a segment on early influences. Regional broadcasts honored his roots, with profiles on Minnesota Original in 2011 and 2012, showcasing his ongoing local performances and legacy. Over his career, these dozens of variety and music program spots helped sustain Vee's visibility amid shifting musical trends.

References

  1. [1]
    Remembering Singer-Songwriter Bobby Vee, The Teen Idol Of The ...
    Oct 28, 2016 · Bobby Vee, the teen idol of the '60s who had 38 hit singles, died Monday due to complications from Alzheimer's. He was 73.
  2. [2]
    Biography | Bobby Vee - American Singer-Songwriter
    Bobby Vee was born Robert Thomas Velline in Fargo, North Dakota on April 30, 1943 into a musical family. His father Sidney played the violin and piano.Missing: sources | Show results with:sources
  3. [3]
    Bobby Vee - History Of Rock
    Robert Thomas Velline was born in Fargo, North Dakota on April 30,1943. The Veelines had always been musical. His father Sidney, who was a professional chef, ...Missing: sources | Show results with:sources
  4. [4]
    Bobby Vee | North Dakota Office of the Governor
    Theodore Roosevelt Rough Rider Award; Bobby Vee. Bobby Vee. Medium. Bobby Vee. Entertainer. 1943 - 2016. Born Robert Velline in Fargo in 1943, Bobby Vee became ...
  5. [5]
    BOBBY VEE - Celebrating the Music of North Dakota!
    At age 15, after spending years trying to convince his brother Sid to let him join his band, Bobby was finally allowed to act as the singer for their group.Missing: sisters | Show results with:sisters
  6. [6]
    Bobby Vee - Robert Thomas Velline (1943 - Geni
    Son of Saima (nee Tampinila) and Sidney Velline, Bobby was born in Fargo, North Dakota, into a family of Norwegian and Finnish heritage (in 2014 he was elected ...
  7. [7]
    Bobby Vee, Pop Idol Known for 'Take Good Care of My Baby,' Dies ...
    Oct 24, 2016 · His father, Sidney Velline, was a chef who played fiddle and piano. His mother was the former Saima Tampinila. Mr. Vee's wife, the former Karen ...<|separator|>
  8. [8]
    The Legacy of Bobby Vee - Author Mark Munger (Cloquet River Press)
    Jul 13, 2020 · The Legacy of Bobby Vee Posted on July 13, 2020 by Mark Interview and Story for the Finnish American Reporter by Mark MungerMissing: sources | Show results with:sources
  9. [9]
    Rock & Roll Memories: Remembering Bobby Vee: The early years
    Jan 4, 2017 · The story of Bobby Vee begins in the Spring of 1958 when four high school friends got together to form another nameless band in the basement of one of the band ...Missing: sisters childhood
  10. [10]
    Bobby Vee wouldn't change a thing, Part 1 - Goldmine Magazine
    Apr 30, 2009 · So what did The Shadows do at their gigs? Bobby Vee And The Shadows in '58? BV: Bill and I sang together a lot. We'd do some Everly Brothers ...
  11. [11]
    Bobby Vee - Tom Simon Home Page
    When he was fifteen he formed a band in Fargo with his brother and a friend which they called the Shadows. ... established Bobby Vee in the minds of rock music ...
  12. [12]
    Today in History: February 3, 'the day the music died' | AP News
    Feb 2, 2025 · ... Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens and J.P. “The Big Bopper” Richardson died in a small plane crash near Clear Lake, Iowa. Also on this date: In ...Missing: details | Show results with:details
  13. [13]
    Iowa Air Crash Kills 3 Singers; Rock 'n' Roll Stars Die
    IOWA AIR CRASH KILLS 3 SINGERS; Rock 'n' Roll Stars and Pilot Die as Chartered Craft Falls After Its Take-Off - The New York Times.Missing: details | Show results with:details
  14. [14]
    Bobby Vee's Connection to Buddy Holly's Legacy
    When news of the crash reached Moorhead, the call went out for local talent to fill in at the concert. Vee and his hastily assembled band, The Shadows ...
  15. [15]
    1960s pop singer Bobby Vee, who filled in after Buddy Holly crash ...
    Oct 24, 2016 · Born Robert Velline in Fargo, North Dakota, Vee was only 15 when he took the stage in Moorhead, Minn., after the Feb. 3, 1959, plane crash in ...
  16. [16]
    How 'The Day the Music Died' launched Fargoan Bobby Vee into ...
    Oct 24, 2016 · 3, 1959, when Buddy Holly, Richie Valens and The Big Bopper perished in a plane crash en route to a show at the Moorhead Armory-was a dark day ...
  17. [17]
  18. [18]
    A celebration of Bobby Vee - Goldmine Magazine
    Nov 16, 2016 · From 1959 through 1970, he had 30 Liberty singles in the Top 100 plus including flip sides also making the lower range of the Top 100. After ...Missing: Billboard chart<|control11|><|separator|>
  19. [19]
    Bobby Vee's Top 10 Biggest Billboard Hits
    Oct 24, 2016 · In total, he racked up 38 appearances on the Hot 100, through 1970's “Sweet Sweetheart.” “Rubber Ball” was released shortly after “Devil or ...Missing: Liberty | Show results with:Liberty
  20. [20]
    Bobby Vee hits back - Sixties Music Secrets
    Bobby Vee alone paid the rent and kept the lights on at the Brill Building! ... The name of the play in 2016 was Teen Idol:The Bobby Vee Story. I had the ...
  21. [21]
    Flashback: Bob Dylan Dedicates a Song to Bobby Vee - Rolling Stone
    Jan 30, 2019 · That same year, Vee hired a teenage pianist going by the name of Elston Gunnn [sic]. “One day my brother Bill came home and said he was ...
  22. [22]
    Interview | Bobby Vee - American Singer-Songwriter
    Bob Dylan played in your band, The Shadows, for a brief time in 1959. What were the circumstances around your paths crossing and is it true that you fired him?
  23. [23]
    Bobby Vee + Bobby Meets the Crickets - Jazz Messengers
    In stock 3–5 day deliveryRecorded in California, between 1960 and 1962. Original recordings produced by Snuff Garrett. INCLUDES 16-PAGE BOOKLET TRACKS: BOBBY VEE 01.
  24. [24]
    Bob Dylan pays homage to Bobby Vee at memorable Midway ... - Play
    Jul 11, 2013 · In a twist of fate, Vee actually hired Dylan to play piano in his band back when Dylan was using the stage name Elston Gunn, so it was quite ...Missing: Gunnn | Show results with:Gunnn
  25. [25]
    Bobby Vee was 1960s music star influenced by Buddy Holly
    Oct 25, 2016 · Inspired by the rock-and-roll icon Buddy Holly, 1960s singer Bobby Vee became a legend in his own right, recording dozens of Billboard hits and even earning ...
  26. [26]
    Bobby Vee, Take Good Care of My Baby pop singer, dies at 73
    Oct 24, 2016 · Born Robert Velline in Fargo, North Dakota, Vee was only 15 when he took the stage in Moorhead, Minnesota, after the 3 February 1959, plane ...
  27. [27]
    Bobby Vee | Biography, Music & News | Billboard
    Billboard Hot 100™ · Take Good Care Of My Baby · Run To Him · Come Back When You Grow Up · The Night Has A Thousand Eyes · Rubber Ball.Missing: Liberty 1959-1970
  28. [28]
    Minnesota loses pop music legend Bobby Vee - Pioneer Press
    Oct 24, 2016 · Bobby Vee moved to The Wellstead the following month, and his health took a recent downward turn. “I told Jeff that it was time to pull the ...
  29. [29]
    Music is therapy as Bobby Vee battles Alzheimer's | kare11.com
    Oct 24, 2016 · Vee last performed publicly at his 2011 retirement show in St. Joseph, his longtime home. The North Dakota native got his break as a 15-year ...
  30. [30]
    '60s pop star Bobby Vee, battling Alzheimer's, returns with new CD ...
    who helped a young Bob Dylan get his start — is now releasing what may ...
  31. [31]
    Local Music Tap: Bobby Vee Records Final Album After Alzheimer's ...
    Jan 30, 2014 · Vee officially retired in 2011 at a farewell concert in his hometown of St. Joseph, Minn. Between 15,000 and 18,000 people attended. Bobby Vee's ...
  32. [32]
    Vee: Kept Alzheimer's private to focus on family - Fargo - InForum
    May 5, 2012 · Vee was diagnosed with mild stages of Alzheimer's disease in January 2011. He waited to go public with the diagnosis until last week. His wife ...
  33. [33]
    Karen A. Velline - Daniel Funeral Home & Cremation Service
    Aug 3, 2015 · She married Robert Velline (Bobby Vee) on December 28, 1963 at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Detroit Lakes. She and her husband moved to ...
  34. [34]
    Karen Velline, Bobby Vee's wife, dies at 71 - St. Cloud Times
    Aug 4, 2015 · Bobby and Karen (nee Bergen) Velline were married for 51 years and in recent years split time between the St. Joseph area and Arizona. The ...
  35. [35]
    Bobby Vee Obituary (1943 - 2016) - Jackson, MI
    Oct 24, 2016 · He is survived by four children, Jeffery Robert Velline, Thomas Paul Velline, Robert Bryon Velline and Jennifer Joanne Velline.
  36. [36]
    A Vee family affair | Local News | veronapress.com
    Apr 18, 2024 · Matt Vee (Velline) had two favorite singers: Neil Diamond and his uncle Bobby Vee. Not only did music always surround Matt, but it was also a family affair.
  37. [37]
    Bobby Vee's sons to honor him at the Alzheimer's Association ...
    May 5, 2017 · Vee and his family moved to St. Cloud, Minn. in the 1980's. In 2012, Vee publicly announced his Alzheimer's diagnosis and withdrew from the ...
  38. [38]
    Pop music icon Bobby Vee dead at 73 | kens5.com
    Oct 24, 2016 · Vee was diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer's disease on Jan. 7, 2011, at age 67. His last public musical performance was July 3, 2011, at ...
  39. [39]
    Pop music icon Bobby Vee dead at 73 - St. Cloud Times
    Oct 24, 2016 · Vee had been in hospice care at The Wellstead of Rogers & Diamondcrest, a memory care facility where the Avon resident lived for the final 13 ...
  40. [40]
    Robert T. "Bobby Vee" Velline - Daniel Funeral Home
    Oct 24, 2016 · Robert was born April 30th, 1943 in Fargo to Sidney and Saima (Tapanila) Velline. He married Karen Bergen on December 28, 1963 in Holy Rosary ...Missing: siblings childhood Dakota
  41. [41]
    1960s Pop Singer Bobby Vee Dies at Age 73 - Billboard
    Oct 24, 2016 · Vee was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease in 2011, and performed his last show that year. Related ...
  42. [42]
    Funeral services announced for music legend Bobby Vee
    Oct 28, 2016 · Services for the late music icon Bobby Vee have been set. A public visitation will be held from 4 to 8 pm Tuesday, Nov. 1, at St. John the Baptist Parish ...Missing: response | Show results with:response
  43. [43]
    Bobby Vee Remembered as 'Ambassador of Joy' at His Funeral
    Nov 2, 2016 · Pop singer Bobby Vee was given a musical farewell at his funeral with an instrumental version of his No. 1 hit “Take Good Care of My Baby.”
  44. [44]
    Bobby Vee – Minnesota Music Hall of Fame
    Bobby Vee and The Shadows' single was picked up by major-label Liberty Records in the fall of 1959. When Bobby's recording of “Devil or Angel” peaked at ...
  45. [45]
    Kiosk Inductee - The South Dakota Rock and Roll Music Association
    In 2005 the original members were inducted into the Rock and Country Hall of Fame in Medina, MN. They reunited and began performing as "The Original ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  46. [46]
    Here's to pop idol Bobby Vee, who's earned the right to slow down a ...
    He was inducted into the Hit Parade Hall of Fame in 2009 and, earlier this year, into the Rockabilly Hall of Fame. His fans still follow him through a Facebook ...
  47. [47]
    Today in Music History: Remembering Bobby Vee on his birthday
    Apr 30, 2018 · " Bobby Vee was inducted into the Rockabilly Hall of Fame in 2011 and into the Scandinavian-American Hall of Fame in 2014. Today in: 1957 ...
  48. [48]
    3 new inductees to Scandinavian-American Hall - Washington Times
    Aug 21, 2014 · The other two inductees in the class of 2014 are singer Bobby Vee, who recorded 38 Top 100 hits from 1959 to 1970, and Sig Hansen, star and ...
  49. [49]
    Bobby Vee obituary | Pop and rock - The Guardian
    Oct 25, 2016 · Bobby Vee, who has died aged 73. Vee was a literal replacement for Holly in February 1959. He and his brother, Bill, were set to attend a concert in Moorehead, ...<|separator|>
  50. [50]
    The Day The Music Lived - How Buddy Holly Changed It All
    Jan 31, 2024 · Later, Vee would learn that in 1960 following the regional success of “Suzie Baby,” Bob Dylan introduced himself as Bobby Vee. According to ...
  51. [51]
    Remembering Bobby Vee - - Reif Center
    Bobby Vee's career started in Moorhead, MN on February 3, 1959, when his group The Shadows volunteered to help fill in after learning about the plane crash ...Missing: relocation Eden
  52. [52]
    'The Day the Music Died' en route to Moorhead, a star named Bobby ...
    Feb 4, 2019 · 15-year-old Fargoan Robert Velline went to school with a ticket in his hand for that night's Winter Dance Party concert featuring his idol, Buddy Holly.
  53. [53]
    The Killer Vees: Remembering Bobby Vee is a Memorable ...
    Jan 26, 2019 · The Killer Vees: Remembering Bobby Vee is a Memorable Performance. I had the pleasure of watching a concert last night by The Killer Vees ...Missing: tribute | Show results with:tribute
  54. [54]
    Remembering Bobby Vee | Discover - nwestiowa.com
    Jun 13, 2025 · The Killer Vees to play tribute to a legend on June 15. If you want to travel back in time, just close your eyes and listen. The Roof Garden on ...Missing: 9th death
  55. [55]
    Our popular Boomers & Crooners Concert Series is back for 2025 ...
    Dec 16, 2024 · Our popular Boomers & Crooners Concert Series is back for 2025! Remembering Bobby Vee | June 15th, 2025 Herman's Hermits | June 29th, 2025
  56. [56]
    Matt Vee Oak Grove Tickets, St. Patrick Catholic Church Sep 06, 2025
    Matt Vee is coming to St. Patrick Catholic Church in Oak Grove on Sep 06, 2025. Find tickets and get exclusive concert information, all at Bandsintown.<|control11|><|separator|>
  57. [57]
    Robby Vee Presented by the Anoka Lions - Eventbrite
    Oct 19, 2025 · Eventbrite - Anoka Lions presents Robby Vee Presented by the Anoka Lions - Sunday, October 19, 2025 at 2015 1st Ave, Anoka, MN.<|separator|>
  58. [58]
    Robby Vee Tour Dates
    2025 · The Hideaway, Rockville MN. Sun, Dec 14. More info. Dec 14, 2025, 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM. Rockville, Rockville, MN, USA. "Have a Rockin' Christmas". Details.
  59. [59]
    In Memory of Pop Idol Bobby Vee: 9 Years After His Tragic Death
    Oct 26, 2025 · He died of complications from Alzheimer's disease on October 24, 2016, in Rogers, Minnesota. He was only 73 years old, and this is his story.
  60. [60]
    Bobby Vee - Bobby Vee | Album | AllMusic
    1. Rubber Ball (Rerecorded). Bobby Vee. 02:24 · 2. Devil or Angel (Rerecorded). Bobby Vee. 02:18 · 3. More Than I Can Say (Rerecorded). Bobby Vee. 02:25 · 4. Run ...
  61. [61]
    BOBBY VEE songs and albums | full Official Chart history
    BOBBY VEE songs and albums, peak chart positions, career stats, week-by-week chart runs and latest news.
  62. [62]
  63. [63]
  64. [64]
    Bobby Vee - LP Discography
    Bobby Vee · Liberty / (1960 - 1969) · United Artists / (1972). Nothin' Like A Sunny Day 1 | 0. Cover image of Nothin' Like ...
  65. [65]
    Discography Singles | Bobby Vee - American Singer-Songwriter
    From 1959 – 1970, Bobby Vee produced thirty-eight Top 100 hits, including 6 Gold Records. The Discography included in the following tables does not pretend to ...Missing: Liberty chart performance
  66. [66]
  67. [67]
    Swingin' Along (1961) - Full cast & crew - IMDb
    Swingin' Along (1961) - Cast and crew credits, including actors, actresses ... Bobby Vee · Self · Connie Gilchrist · Connie Gilchrist · Aunt ...
  68. [68]
    C'mon, Let's Live a Little (1967) - Full cast & crew - IMDb
    Cast ; Bobby Vee · Jesse Crawford ; Jackie DeShannon · Judy Grant ; Eddie Hodges · Eddie Stewart ; Suzie Kaye · Bee Bee Vendemeer ; Patsy Kelly · Mrs. Fitts.
  69. [69]
    Bobby Vee: 1943 - 2016 | Roseville, MN Patch
    Nov 14, 2016 · A brief history Of Local Teen Idol Bobby Vee from Fargo, ND. · Find out what's happening in Rosevillefor free with the latest updates from Patch.
  70. [70]
    Bobby Vee Run to Him American Bandstand 1965 - YouTube
    Apr 16, 2012 · Share your videos with friends, family, and the world.
  71. [71]
    Bobby Vee "The Night Has a Thousand Eyes" - YouTube
    Oct 26, 2012 · American Bandstand. December 26, 1964.Missing: Shindig | Show results with:Shindig
  72. [72]
    SHINDIG! - Complete Series Vol. 7 & 8 - The Video Beat
    SHINDIG on DVD! 1964-64 US TV show. Tons of fantastic 60s groups and ... " Bobby Vee: "Cross My Heart," "Early in the Morning." The Walker Brothers ...
  73. [73]
    "Hollywood a Go Go" Episode #1.5 (TV Episode 1965) - IMDb
    Hollywood a Go Go. S1.E5. All episodesAll · Cast ... The Sinners · Themselves · Bobby Vee · Self · The Walker Brothers · Themselves ... Learn more. Get the IMDb App.
  74. [74]
    Bobby Vee | Television Academy
    Vee's music was featured on episodes of American Masters, Cold Case and Call the Midwife. He also appeared or performed on Juke Box Jury, The Joey Bishop ...
  75. [75]
    Roy Orbison; guests: The Drifters, Duane Eddy, Lloyd Price ... - IMDb
    The Midnight Special. S2.E23 ... Guest Host: Roy Orbison; guests: The Drifters, Duane Eddy, Lloyd Price, Tommy Roe, Del Shannon, Bobby Vee, Jackie Wilson.
  76. [76]
    Bob Dylan | About No Direction Home - PBS
    ... U.S. broadcast premiere on PBS' American Masters in 2005. The two-part film ... Bobby Vee: ♪ SUZIE BABY ♪ ♪ WHERE ARE YOU? ♪ ♪ HAVE YOU LEFT ME ...
  77. [77]
    MNO - Bobby Vee - Twin Cities PBS
    Nov 2, 2011 · Minnesota Original is TPT's award-winning arts series starring Minnesota artists from diverse cultural backgrounds, working in all arts disciplines. Broadcast ...Missing: 1980s 2000s
  78. [78]
    Bobby Vee – flipsiderock.com
    “Play It Cool” (1962). He was also a frequent guest on variety and music shows, including American Bandstand, Shindig!, and The Ed Sullivan Show, helping to ...