Bobby Vee: AKA Robert Thomas Velline – Exclusive!

Bobby Vee: AKA Robert Thomas Velline - Exclusive! Sonny Melendrez 29:16

Listen as Sonny reaches into his radio archives to share one of his most treasured interviews with an American music icon: Bobby Vee. Their visit took place on Sonny’s show at KMPC Radio in Los Angeles in 1974.

Bobby shares his journey of being catapulted into the world of popular music and then looking back, a decade later, as he set out to reinvent himself.

He was born Robert Velline in Fargo, ND, and, although he started playing music when he was just a young teenager, it was country music, not rock. However, he, his brother and some friends eventually formed a rock band, “The Shadows”, and began to attract some attention in the Fargo area. His big “break” came when rock legends Ritchie Valens, The Big Bopper and Buddy Holly died in a plane crash in 1959 en route to a concert in Minnesota. The concert’s promoters decided to put on the show anyway, and asked for help from local talent. Bobby, who knew the words to all of the songs that were to be played, found himself on stage and, at 15 years old, began his career as a rock star.

He and his group had a local hit with “Susie Baby”, which came to the attention of executives at Liberty Records in Hollywood, and he and The Shadows were signed to the label. The next few records they cut went basically nowhere, however, and Liberty was all set to cancel their contract when a DJ in Pittsburgh played the “B” side to one of their records, a remake of an old ballad by The Clovers called “Devil or Angel”. It became a hit in Pittsburgh and then spread throughout the Northeast, eventually hitting #6 on the national pop charts.

Liberty then signed Vee to a five-year contract. He had a string of hits for the label, such as “Take Good Care of My Baby”, “Rubber Ball”, “The Night Has a Thousand Eyes” and “Come Back When You Grow Up, Girl”.

The rest, as they say is history.

*Bobby died on October 24, 2026 from complications of Alzheimer’s disease, but not before leaving a legacy unforgettable music, lasting friendships and wonderful memories as a husband, father and grandfather. May he rest in peace.

Sonny Melendrez Inspirational Speaker | Radio/TV Host | Author

Sonny Melendrez, an award-winning TEDx motivational speaker, media consultant, and inspirational figure, has dedicated over 20 years to uplifting individuals and organizations.

Renowned for his energetic keynote speeches and workshops, Melendrez focuses on empowering associations, educational institutions, and businesses to achieve their fullest potential. His engaging presentations are known for their humor and interactive elements, aiming to inspire transformative changes in careers and lives.

Melendrez's accolades include being twice named Billboard Magazine's "National Radio Personality of the Year" and induction into the Texas Radio Hall Of Fame and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame as one of the top 100 radio personalities. His broadcasting career spanned leading radio stations across Los Angeles and San Antonio, where he not only hosted popular shows but also significantly contributed to public service.

Beyond radio, Melendrez has excelled as a TV host, actor, motivational speaker, and voice artist, endorsing brands like Disney and Pepsi, and engaging audiences at high-profile events, including the White House Hispanic Heritage Awards. He's passionately contributed to social causes, leading initiatives like The Children of the World Project and actively supporting numerous charities, raising over $100 million for non-profits.

Melendrez's efforts have earned him commendations from President Reagan, a Grammy nomination, and recognition as a socially responsible entrepreneur.

His book, "The Art of Living with Enthusiasm!", encapsulates his philosophy on the transformative power of positivity and enthusiasm in personal and professional realms.