Born in Memphis on this day (September 21) in 1936, Royden Dickey Lipscomb — known professionally as Dickey Lee — is responsible for an impressive number of chart-topping hits. The Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame member’s resume includes “She Thinks I Still Care” by George Jones; “Let’s Fall To Pieces Together” by George Strait; Reba McEntire’s “You’re The First Time I’ve Thought about Leaving”; “I’ll Be Leaving Alone” by Charley Pride; and Tracy Byrd’s 1995 hit “The Keeper of the Stars”.
However, Lee’s talents aren’t limited to the writers’ room. He’s also a performer, getting his start on the 1960s pop scene with the teenage tragedy hits “Patches” (1962) and “Laurie (Strange Things Happen)” (1965). Not content to rest on his laurels, Lee has also recorded a number of country hits, including the number-one 1975 hit “Rocky”.
In honor of Dickey Lee’s 90th birthday, we’re taking a trip through his remarkable life and career.
Who is Dickey Lee?
Writing his first song “Anna Lee” at just 13 years old, Dickey Lee grew up on the songs of Webb Pierce, Hank Thompson, Carl Smith, and Faron Young…