Introduction
History and Introduction of Patsy Cline – “Crazy” (1961)
“Crazy,” one of the most iconic country-pop ballads in American music history, was recorded by Patsy Cline in 1961 and written by a then-rising songwriter, Willie Nelson. At the time, Nelson was struggling to find success as a performer but had begun to gain recognition in Nashville for his songwriting. He originally pitched “Crazy” to country singer Billy Walker, who turned it down, feeling it was better suited for a female voice. Patsy Cline’s producer, Owen Bradley, saw the song’s potential for her distinct vocal style and brought it to her attention.
Initially, Cline was hesitant. She was recovering from a serious car accident and found the song’s complex phrasing difficult to master due to lingering pain in her ribs. However, once she returned to the studio, she delivered a powerful vocal performance in just one complete take — a version that would become definitive.
Released in October 1961 as the follow-up to her previous hit “I Fall to Pieces,” “Crazy” became a massive crossover success. It reached No. 2 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and No. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100, introducing Cline’s rich, emotive voice to a broader audience. The song’s smooth, sophisticated arrangement, blending country with pop and jazz influences, marked a turning point in country music production.
“Crazy” would go on to become Patsy Cline’s signature song and one of the most played jukebox tunes of all time. It has since been covered by dozens of artists and was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1992. Nelson later said that Cline’s rendition made the song immortal. Today, “Crazy” stands as a timeless testament to heartbreak, artistry, and the enduring legacy of Patsy Cline.
Video
Lyrics
Crazy
I’m crazy for feeling so lonely
I’m crazy
Crazy for feeling so blue
I knew
You’d love me as long as you wanted
And then some day
You’d leave me for somebody new
Worry
Why do I let myself worry?
Wondering
What in the world did I do?
Oh, crazy
For thinking that my love could hold you
I’m crazy for trying
And crazy for crying
And I’m crazy for loving you
Crazy
For thinking that my love could hold you
I’m crazy for trying
And crazy for crying
And I’m crazy for loving you