Ricky Nelson, Teen Idol of the 1950s, Remembered in New Book
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Ricky Nelson, the iconic teen idol of the 1950s and 1960s, tragically lost his life in a plane crash on December 31, 1985. Now, a new book is shedding light on the details surrounding the crash that claimed his life and those of six others. The book, penned by Nelson’s sons Matthew and Gunnar Nelson, aims to dispel the rumours that have long surrounded the circumstances of their father’s untimely death.
The plane crash occurred when Nelson’s band’s aircraft, a Douglas DC-3, caught fire mid-flight near De Kalb, Texas. Despite the efforts of the pilots, Nelson and six others aboard the plane lost their lives in the crash. The musician and actor rose to fame through his role in his parents’ television show, ‘The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet’, before becoming a beloved teen idol with hits like “Poor Little Fool” and “Travelin’ Man”.
In the aftermath of the tragedy, rumours swirled that cocaine use among some members of the band had sparked the fire that led to the crash. However, Matthew and Gunnar Nelson are now setting the record straight in their book titled ‘What Happened To Your Hair’. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, the brothers express their desire to put an end to the misinformation that has clouded their father’s legacy for decades.
According to the Nelson brothers, the cocaine rumour was unfounded and was initially started by a journalist who misconstrued information provided by investigators. The brothers recount how the journalist’s misguided question about cocaine being found on the plane escalated into sensational headlines, causing a wave of false accusations in the media. The brothers maintain that their father’s tragic death was not linked to drug use as speculated.
Despite the tragic circumstances of the plane crash, Matthew and Gunnar Nelson also reflect on their father’s love for flying and his cherished DC-3 aircraft. They share anecdotes about their father’s affection for the plane, which he acquired from Jerry Lee Lewis, and how it allowed him the freedom to travel for his performances. Despite his fear of flying, Ricky Nelson felt safe in the DC-3, which he fondly called “the flying bus”.
The brothers also relay a poignant memory of their last conversation with their father just days before the crash. Recalling their father’s words of admiration for them as peers and not just his sons, Matthew and Gunnar express the profound impact of those words on their lives. The emotional exchange serves as a lasting memory of their father’s love and support.
‘What Happened To Your Hair’ offers a glimpse into the personal lives of the Nelson family and aims to set the record straight on the events surrounding Ricky Nelson’s tragic passing. By dispelling rumours and revealing untold stories, the book honours the legacy of the beloved teen idol and provides insight into the true nature of his character and the enduring bond within the Nelson family.
As the Nelson brothers seek closure and authenticity in recounting their father’s story, readers are invited to discover the truth behind the rumours and celebrate the lasting impact of Ricky Nelson’s music and legacy. The book serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of a music icon and the enduring bond of family love.