The 10 best Patsy Cline songs of all time

Patsy Cline (1932–1963) was an American country music singer who became widely known and recognized for her rich contralto voice and soulful songs. Born Virginia Patterson Hensley, the singer began her career in the late 1940s and quickly rose to prominence in the 1950s and early 1960s.

Cline’s hits include timeless classics such as “Crazy,” “Walkin’ After Midnight,” “I Fall to Pieces,” and “She’s Got You.” Her music blended country, pop, and rockabilly influences, which contributed to her wide appeal to diverse listeners. Cline’s career tragically ended in a plane crash at age 30, but her impact on country music and lasting legacy as a pioneer of the genre continues to influence artists to this day.

1. Always

“Always” is a classic Patsy Cline song released posthumously in 1963. Showcasing her soulful singing style and heartfelt delivery, it is a poignant ballad that resonates with listeners. The song’s lyrics express abiding love and devotion, and explore themes of longing and devotion. Patsy Cline’s rendition of “Always” remains a timeless example of her ability to convey deep emotions through her music, and cements her status as a legendary figure in country music history.

2. So wrong

“So Wrong” is a song originally written and recorded by Carl Perkins in 1957. However, it is best known by Patsy Cline, who recorded her version in 1962. Cline’s rendition is a classic example of her soulful and powerful singing style.

In “So Wrong,” Cline sings about the pain of heartbreak and regret, reflecting on a failed relationship. The song’s lyrics convey a sense of longing and sadness, which Cline delivers with her signature emotional depth. The song features a lush arrangement with prominent strings, enhancing its dramatic impact.

Cline’s version of “So Wrong” became a hit on the country charts and showcased her ability to connect with audiences through her soulful performances. The song remains a popular choice for fans of classic country music and is considered one of Patsy Cline’s most outstanding recordings.

3. Why can’t he be you?

“Why Can’t He Be You” is a poignant country song recorded by Patsy Cline in 1962. Written by Hank Cochran, the song deals with themes of unrequited love and heartbreak. It tells the story of a woman who is still in love with someone who has moved on to another relationship. The lyrics compare the new partner to the old love and highlight the emotional turmoil and longing experienced by the protagonist.

Patsy Cline’s rendition of “Why Can’t He Be You” is notable for her soulful and emotional delivery that captures the vulnerability and depth of the lyrics. The song became a hit on the country music charts and remains a classic example of Cline’s ability to convey raw emotion and storytelling prowess through her music.

4. Crazy

“Crazy” is a classic country song by Willie Nelson. Patsy Cline first recorded it in 1961 and it has since become one of her most famous songs. “Crazy” is a ballad about longing and heartbreak, with lyrics that express the pain of unrequited love.

Patsy Cline’s version of “Crazy” is known for her soulful vocals that perfectly capture the melancholy mood of the song. The song has a simple yet beautiful melody, with Cline’s voice accompanied by lush strings and soft guitar.

“Crazy” was a huge success for Patsy Cline, reaching the top of the country charts and becoming one of her most enduring hits. The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years and is considered a classic of the country genre.

5. I break into pieces

“I Fall to Pieces” is a timeless country song recorded by Patsy Cline in 1960. Written by Hank Cochran and Harlan Howard, the song features Cline’s soulful vocals and is notable for its poignant lyrics and melody.

The lyrics of “I Fall to Pieces” describe the pain of a broken heart and the difficulties of moving on after a breakup. The protagonist confesses her vulnerability and inability to pull herself together while continuing to long for the person who broke her heart.

Patsy Cline’s rendition of “I Fall to Pieces” was a huge hit, reaching #1 on the Billboard Country chart and #12 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song’s success cemented Cline’s status as a leading figure in country music and it remains one of her most iconic and enduring songs, known for its emotional depth and powerful vocals.

6. Walk after midnight

“Walkin’ After Midnight” is a classic country song recorded by Patsy Cline in 1957. Written by Alan Block and Donn Hecht, the song is known for its haunting melody and evocative lyrics.

The lyrics of “Walkin’ After Midnight” tell the story of someone wandering the streets late at night, unable to sleep, searching for their lost love. The protagonist walks in the moonlight, hoping to find comfort or a sign that their lover still cares for them.

Patsy Cline’s rendition of “Walkin’ After Midnight” became her breakthrough hit, reaching #2 on the Billboard country charts and also making the pop charts. The song showcased Cline’s distinctive vocal style, blending country, pop and blues influences. It remains one of her most popular songs, celebrated for its timeless appeal and soulful delivery.

7. Sweet dreams (of you)

“Sweet Dreams (Of You)” is a song originally written and recorded by Don Gibson in 1955. However, it is best known by Patsy Cline, who recorded her version in 1963. Cline’s rendition of “Sweet Dreams” is considered one of her best known songs and a classic of the country genre.

In “Sweet Dreams (Of You),” the singer reflects on lost love and longs for the return of her lover in her dreams. The lyrics of the song convey a sense of longing and nostalgia, which Cline conveys with her distinctive vocal style. The arrangement features lush strings and a gentle melody, which enhances the emotional impact of the song.

Patsy Cline’s version of “Sweet Dreams (Of You)” became a huge hit, reaching the top of the country charts. The song remains a beloved classic and a testament to Cline’s talent as a singer.

8. She has you

“She’s Got You” is a poignant country song recorded by Patsy Cline in 1962. The song was written by Hank Cochran and tells the story of a woman haunted by memories of a past love. Although the protagonist is in a new relationship, she is constantly reminded of her former lover through the objects and mementos left behind.

The lyrics of “She’s Got You” capture the bittersweet feelings of longing and heartbreak as the protagonist reflects on what she has lost. The song’s melancholy melody and Cline’s emotive vocals evoke a sense of nostalgia and resignation.

“She’s Got You” was a commercial success for Patsy Cline, reaching #1 on the Billboard country charts and also making the pop charts. The song remains a classic example of Cline’s ability to convey deep emotions and stories through her music, cementing her legacy as a country music icon.

9. Leavin’ on Your Mind

“Leavin’ on Your Mind” is a song written by Wayne Walker and recorded by Patsy Cline in 1962. It was released as a single and became a major hit for Cline, reaching the top 10 on the country charts.

The song is a classic example of a country ballad whose lyrics express heartbreak and longing. In “Leavin’ on Your Mind,” the singer addresses a former lover who leaves her, expressing regret and sadness over the breakup. The song features Cline’s powerful vocals and emotional delivery, which helped cement her reputation as one of the greatest singers in the history of country music.

“Leavin’ on Your Mind” has now become one of Patsy Cline’s most well-known songs and is loved by fans of classic country music. The song showcases her ability to convey deep emotion through her music and remains a highlight in her catalog.

10. Faded Love

“Faded Love” is a classic country song originally written by Bob Wills and his father, John Wills. It was first recorded by Bob Wills and the Texas Playboys in 1950, but gained popularity with Patsy Cline’s rendition in 1963.

The song “Faded Love” expresses the sadness and nostalgia of a love that has faded. The lyrics reflect memories of a past romance that once burned brightly but has faded with time. Despite the passage of time, the protagonist still longs for the lost love and laments the pain of its absence.

Patsy Cline’s version of “Faded Love” showcases her soulful vocals and ability to convey deep emotions. Her rendition remains one of the definitive interpretations of the song, capturing the melancholy essence of lost love with grace and authenticity. “Faded Love” has since become a classic in the country music genre, loved for its timeless themes and soulful portrayal of longing and regret.

Edward Tomlin is a regular contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us on social media below.