THE MUSE: Donna Ludwig THE BACKSTORY: Although Valens pioneered Chicano rock with "La Bamba," his biggest hit was this ode to his high school sweetheart. UPDATE: Valens stayed in touch with Ludwig when he was on the road, until February 3, 1959, when he and Buddy Holly died in a plane crash. Now a grandmother, Ludwig remains close to Valens' family. Photo courtesy of the Rave