On This Day in 1957, Patsy Cline Released Her Self-Titled Debut Album

August 5, 2024 11:05 am

On this day (August 5) in 1957, Patsy Cline released her self-titled debut album. The album produced Cline’s first top-10 hit single and helped to launch her career.

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Cline’s career was tragically short. She only recorded three albums before a plane crash cut her life short. The “Crazy” singer was only 30 years old when she died. Even though her career was short, Cline was one of the most influential artists of the twentieth century. Her voice combined with Owen Bradley’s production helped influence generations of artists including Lucinda Williams, Tammy Wynette, and many more.

Legendary producer and father of the Nashville Sound, Owen Bradley helmed the sessions for Cline’s debut album. Bradley enlisted The Anita Kerr Singers to provide background vocals for the album.

Patsy Cline’s Debut Album Produces Her First Hit

Patsy Cline contained 12 tracks that are considered country classics today. However, the album only produced two singles—“Walkin’ After Midnight” and “I Don’t Wanta”—and one hit. “Walkin’ After Midnight” peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard Country singles chart and No. 12 on the pop chart. “I Don’t Wanta” failed to chart.

According to Songfacts, Cline gave “Walkin’ After Midnight” a boost in popularity when she performed it on TV. She sang the song on Arthur Godfrey’s Talen Scouts and won the night’s competition. The variety show introduced the singer and her song to a wide audience.

“Walkin’ After Midnight” wasn’t just a hit song. It was proof that Cline was a country singer who could have crossover success. More than that, it set her up for success in the worlds of both pop and country music later in her career.

Written by Four Star Records staff writers Don Hecht and Alan Block, Cline didn’t like the sole hit on her debut album. However, it suited her voice and her emotional delivery. So, she recorded it for the album.

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