Harlan Howard

Harlan Howard wrote songs that other people turned into hits. He was born in Oklahoma in 1927 and started out trying to perform before finding his real place as a writer. In the 1950s, he began having success with songs like 'Heartaches By The Number,' which became a standard for country singers.

His catalog includes straightforward, emotional songs with titles like 'Chokin' Kind' and 'I'm Tired.' The song 'Leave My Baby Alone' was recorded by Eddie Cochran in 1957. Howard's writing often dealt with plain heartache and everyday situations, without much ornament.

Many of his songs were recorded by major country artists, though he worked primarily as a solo songwriter. He kept writing for decades, with albums like 'A Boy Named Sue' appearing in 1969. The work is remembered for its directness more than any grand innovation.