Ersel Hickey was a tough kid who had a tough life with a mother in a mental institution, a missing father, and no home but foster homes. However, in 1958, encouraged by Phil Everly of the Everly Brothers, Hickey wrote and recorded the Rock N Roll classic, “Bluebirds Over the Mountain.” It was later recorded in 1958 by Ritchie Valens and again by the Beach Boys in 1968. Hickey’s 45 on Epic Records is worth up to $25.00 but a 78 rpm version can sell for $200.00 today. Both are seen here.

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