Crazy Day

On this day in 1961, Patsy Cline recorded that classic song, Crazy, written by Willie Nelson and since sung by virtually everybody with a larynx – but never better than by Patsy, who, incidentally, cut the track in one take.
The story of how the song got from Willie to Patsy is, like anything to do with Willie Nelson, confused and comes in several versions, all involving strong drink and bar-rooms. But somehow Patsy's husband ended up suggesting to her that she should record this great song by Nelson. When she heard Willie's own, er, characteristic rendition of the song – before the beat, behind the beat, all around the melody – she understandably thought it was not for her. But happily she soon realised its possibilities, and it turned out to be one of the best things she ever did.
There's another musical milestone today too. James Burton, the 'Master of the Telecaster' and one of the finest guitarists ever to take up a pick, will be celebrating his 80th birthday. Here he is in action only last year, running through a few sweet licks. Many happy returns, James!