By Jaymi Firestone | June 28, 2019
For many who are local to the area who have spent more than a few years here, Norman Petty is a name we all recognize.
The recording studio he opened with his wife, Vi (Violet Anne) Petty, and their longtime friend, Jack Vaughn, is still a lively place in Clovis.
The studio was established in Clovis in 1954, and was a special place in the 50s and 60s. It played a huge part in Buddy Holly’s rise to stardom.
The original piano, organ, and other instruments and equipment Norman used to record Buddy Holly are still inside the studio, waiting for the public to come view.
Norman recorded many hits of the late 50s and early 60s at the Clovis studio, where he was a native.
Songs like Buddy Holly’s, “That’ll be the Day” and “Peggy Sue,” and “Sugar Shack” by The Fireballs were all recorded in the small, home-owned recording studio.
The studio is still home to many records that were recorded there, including several gold records.
Walking the floors of this famed studio brings back a feeling of nostalgia and excitement, because you can sense the history, and feel the presence of those famous artists that once walked the same floors.
The studio offers tours by appointment normally, however in celebration of Clovis’ annual Music Festival, they are offering tours Friday, June 28 and Saturday, June 29 for free!
Thursday night’s music festival performers, Lance Lapinski and the Lovers, took time out of their day to visit the halls of this iconic legend’s studio.
Don’t miss the opportunity to do the same!
NorVaJak Studio is located at 1313 W. 7th St. in Clovis!
Actual microphone Buddy Holly recorded his songs on with Norman Petty
Stop in for a quick tour, experience all there is to see, and then head over to Marshall Auditorium for the Loverboy Concert tonight, who are most famously known for their hit, “Working for the Weekend.”
