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Donald's Encyclopedia of Popular MusicA B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y ZCRADDOCK, Billy 'Crash'
(b 16 June 1939, Greensboro NC) Country-rock singer; the nickname came from his high school football career. He began with his brother Clarence in the Four Rebels in 1958; he signed to Columbia and scored minor hit 'Don't Destroy Me' '59. He made more impression in Australia, leading some to believe he was Australian. He left Columbia, wanting to sing country (they wanted him for rock'n'roll/pop); returned to his home town, married, worked day jobs and sang weekends. After ten years he signed for a new Cartwheel label Nashville; his first record 'Knock Three Times' made the country top three '71. More hits: 'Dream Lover', 'You Better Move On', '71; 'I'm Gonna Knock On Your Door' '72. Switched to ABC for more than 30 hits including no. ones 'Rub It In', 'Ruby Baby' '74, 'Broken Down In Tiny Pieces' '76; joined Capitol '78 for 16 more. Early rock'n'roll compiled on Well Don't You Know '94 on Bear Family; a selection also on Razor and Tie. |