Razzy Bailey
Rasie Michael " Razzy " Bailey ( born February 14, 1939 in Five Points, Alabama) is an American country music singer and songwriter.
Life
Razzy grew up in poverty on a farm in rural Alabama. From his father, a recreational musician, he was given a used guitar. As a student he played in a band, he released his first record at age 19. After graduation and early marriage, he eked out a living doing odd jobs. He also played in a country band.
In 1966 he wrote the song 9,999,999 Tears and introduced him to the producer Bill Owery. With well-known studio musicians like Joe South, and Billy Joe Royal a single was recorded, but only sold miserably.
Career
It took another ten years until he achieved his breakthrough in the music scene. During this time he played in several bands and recorded several unsuccessful singles. 1976 achieved Dickey Lee 9,999,999 Tears a number 1 hit. Two years later, he had a Top 10 hit success with another Bailey song, Peanut butter. Due to this success, Bailey received offers from several major record companies. In 1978, he signed with RCA label.
His first single for the new label, What Time Do You Have To be Back In Heaven made it into the top 10. There were other high rankings before him in 1980 with Lovin 'Up A Storm scored the first of a series of number - one hits. His albums were successful. In 1981, he was honored by Billboard magazine with an award as the best country singer of the year. With its mix of country, blues and soul, coupled with a hoarse, high-pitched voice, he continued to be successful.
In 1984 he moved to MCA. The sales of his records subsided gradually. However, his songs continued to be asked, and were interpreted by many established country musicians. In 1987 he founded his own label, SOA Records ( Sounds Of America ), but his big-time was over. Only in 1993 he got back into the headlines when his wife committed suicide. Razzy Bailey remained active as a musician.