Patsy Cline

Introduction

Patsy Cline was an American singer who is widely regarded as one of the greatest singers of the 20th century.

Early Life

Cline was born on September 18, 1932, in Winchester, Virginia. She was the daughter of Hilda Virginia (née Patterson) and Samuel Lawrence Hensley.

Childhood Challenges

Growing up, Cline temporarily lived with her mother’s family before relocating many times throughout the state.

Personal Struggles

Cline also had a difficult childhood experience. She once recalled that her father sexually abused her. When she was 13, she was hospitalized with a throat infection and rheumatic fever.

Early Interest in Singing

Cline took to singing from an early age, which she developed during her stay at the hospital.

Talent Contest Victory

At the age of 15, Cline won a talent contest on the local radio station. This win led her to become a regular performer on the station.

Record Deal with Four Star Records

Cline signed a record deal with Four Star Records in 1954, which gave her little control over her music.

Breakthrough with “Walkin’ After Midnight”

Cline made an appearance on Arthur Godfrey’s Talent Scouts in 1957 where she performed “Walkin’ After Midnight,” a song that became her first major hit, reaching number two on the country music charts and number 12 on the pop charts.

Career Growth with Decca Records

Her appearance on the show exposed her to a wider audience. After leaving Four Star Records in 1960, she signed with Decca Records and worked with producer Owen Bradley who helped her develop a unique style by fusing together country and pop music. She recorded several classical hits.

Legacy as a Trailblazer

Once the 1960s rolled in, Cline had become a beloved and highly regarded singer in the nation. She was a trailblazer who broke down barriers in a male-dominated industry and allowed other female performers to follow in her footsteps.

Marriages

Cline was married twice. Her first husband was Gerald Cline in 1953. The marriage lasted for a few years before they divorced in 1957.

Second Marriage

She later married Charlie Dick in 1957. The couple had two children. She was married to him until her death in 1963.

Tragic End

Cline’s promising career came to a tragic end in 1963 when she was involved in a tragic plane crash near Camden, Tennessee, along with fellow country singers Hawkshaw Hawkins and Cowboy Copas.