Gene Vincent, real name Vincent Eugene Craddock, (February 11, 1935 -
October 12, 1971) was an American rock'n'roll pioneer musician, best known
for his hit "Be-Bop-A-Lula".
Early life His parents, Ezekiah Jackson and Mary Louise Craddock, were
shop owners in Norfolk, Virginia. He grew up in Virginia under the
influence of country, rhythm and blues and gospel music. He received his
first guitar as a gift from a friend at the age of 12.
In 1952, Gene left school and joined the Navy. In 1955 he was stationed in
Korea. In July 1955, whilst in Norfolk, he was involved in a severe
motorcycle accident that shattered his left leg. He refused to have it
amputated, the leg was saved, but left him with a permanent limp and
considerable chronic pain for the rest of his life.
Early career He left the Navy and started playing in various country bands
in his native Norfolk, Virginia. There, he won a talent co
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Gene Vincent,