Patsy Cline - "Crazy" (1961)
Written by Willie Nelson
Produced by Owen Bradley
Willie Nelson was a 20-something songwriter and bass player in Ray Price's touring band when he wrote the song "Crazy." It was first offered to the country singer Billy Walker, but it was turned own because he felt it was written for a woman to sing. Patsy Cline had emerged as a country star with her big hit "I Fall To Pieces." However, she had not yet reached the pop top 10.
Patsy Cline's recording of "Crazy" is considered an all-time classic of country pop. It includes Elvis Presley's backup singers the Jordanaires and legendary Nashville piano player Floyd Cramer. "Crazy" became a #2 country smash and was Patsy Cline's only top 10 pop hit. The song's success made Patsy Cline an even bigger star. Tragically, she died less than two years later in a plane crash.