Billy Wayne "Crash" Craddock, born on June 16, 1939, in Greensboro, North Carolina, is an American singer known for his contributions to rockabilly and country music. He learned to play guitar at the age of six and began his musical journey by winning a local television talent contest at eleven. Craddock's first release, "Smacky-Mouth", was recorded in 1957 on the Greensboro Sky Castle label. His early career saw him releasing singles like "Birddoggin'" and "Ah, Poor Little Baby" with no significant success. He gained popularity in Australia during the late 1950s and early 1960s with hits such as "Boom Boom Baby" and "One Last Kiss", both reaching Number 1 on the Australian charts. Craddock transitioned to country music in the 1970s, signing with Cartwheel Records in 1969. His cover of "Knock Three Times" became his first Number 1 hit in 1971. He continued to release successful singles and albums throughout the decade, including hits like "Rub It In", which reached Number 1 on the country charts and peaked at number 20 on the U.S. pop charts. Craddock's unique style, blending rock and country elements, earned him the nickname "The King Of Country Rock Music." He signed with ABC Records in 1973, where he achieved further success with hits like "Sweet Magnolia Blossom" and "Ruby Baby". His final top ten hits were "I Cheated on a Good Woman's Love" and "If I Could Write a Song as Beautiful as You" both released in 1978.
