Patsy Cline

On Sept. 30, 1954, Cline signed her first recording contract with Four Star Records.

On Sept. 8, 1932, Virginia Patterson Hensley — known to country music fans as Patsy Cline — was born in Gore, Va.

Cline's songs are some of the most essential in the history of country music.

On Aug. 7, 1961, Cline earned her first No. 1 hit with "I Fall to Pieces," from her 'Patsy Cline Showcase' album.

Listen to the music on these albums any way you can.

May they rest in peace ...

The two stars were fast friends.

Rest in peace, Patsy ...

Grab the tissues ...

Not all first releases have been hot sellers -- even albums by artists who would soon come to define and influence country music.