LeAnn Rimes Honors Patsy Cline with Tearful Tribute at American Country Awards
In 2013, LeAnn Rimes paid tribute to one of country music’s most beloved legends, Patsy Cline, with a stunning medley during the American Country Awards. For Rimes, the performance wasn’t just a set—it was a heartfelt salute to one of her lifelong idols.
Taking the stage with grace and deep emotion, Rimes performed several of Cline’s timeless hits, including “Leavin’ On Your Mind” and “Crazy,” arguably Cline’s most iconic song. Although “Crazy” is now synonymous with Cline’s legacy, it surprisingly never reached No. 1 on the charts. In her career, Cline only claimed two chart-toppers: “I Fall to Pieces” and “She’s Got You.”
A Tribute Rooted in Admiration
Rimes also performed “Sweet Dreams” and “Walkin’ After Midnight,” two more staples from Cline’s enduring catalog. Her powerful vocals and emotional delivery made her the ideal choice to honor Cline on such a stage.
LeAnn has long expressed admiration for Cline’s artistry, and the connection between the two runs deeper than their shared genre. There’s even an enduring rumor—though denied by songwriter Bill Mack—that “Blue,” Rimes’ breakout hit, was originally intended for Cline. Whether true or not, it’s one of many symbolic threads that tie their legacies together.
A Vintage Feel for a Timeless Icon
Rimes went all-in to capture the essence of the era that Cline embodied. The performance was presented in black and white, giving it a nostalgic, classic feel. Her styling—a vintage-inspired white gown, elegant updo, and antique-style microphone—added to the timeless atmosphere.
With every note, Rimes channeled the emotional weight of Cline’s music. By the end of the medley, she was visibly overwhelmed, tears streaming down her face in a moment of pure, heartfelt tribute.
Fans and viewers alike were moved by the emotional performance, and many felt Cline herself would’ve been proud of how beautifully Rimes honored her work.
You can relive the touching tribute in the video below—a stirring celebration of one country legend by another.