the original "teen idol" began his entertainment career at the age of 8 acting in his family's tv and radio shows. became a recording artist at 17 years of age. this 1972 surprise hit was written in response to being booed at a
rock 'n' roll revival concert in 1971. it was uncertain whether the crowd was booing him or the police action that was taking place in the audience at the same time. he references many other music stars at the concert. tragically, he was killed in an airplane crash dec 31, 1985. just over two years later, ricky was inducted into the rock and roll hall of fame (jan 21, 1987).