Jiles Perry `` J. P. '' Richardson , Jr. ( October 24 , 1930 -- February 3 , 1959 ) , commonly known as The Big Bopper , was an American musician , songwriter , and disc jockey , whose big rockabilly look , style , voice , and exuberant personality made him an early rock and roll star .
Jiles Perry `` J. P. '' Richardson , Jr. ( October 24 , 1930 -- February 3 , 1959 ) also commonly known as The Big Bopper , was an American disc jockey , singer , and songwriter whose big voice and exuberant personality made him an early rock and roll star .