This is the true story of Ritchie Valens, a young rock and roll singer who tragically died at age 17 in a plane crash with Buddy Holly and The Big Bopper. The film follows Ritchie from his days in Pacoima, California where he and his family make a meager living working on farms to his rise as a star. The film also focuses on Ritchie's friendship and rivalry with his older brother Roberto Morales and his relationship with his girlfriend Donna Ludwig.