1958 Timeless Classic, Reimagined by a 13-Year-Old, Ranked Among ‘Best Country Songs of All Time'
LeAnn Rimes was only 13 years old when she released her version of "Blue." The classic country standard not only catapulted her to superstardom, but it also showcased her powerhouse vocals and delicate yodeling that stood out in the country genre and drew comparisons to Patsy Cline.
Written by Bill Mack, who released the song first in 1958, "Blue" tackles the story of someone dealing with incredible loneliness in the aftermath of a breakup. The narrator expresses overwhelming sadness as they question why their former lover isn't missing them in the same way. Despite its emotionally complex subject matter, Rimes' rendition of "Blue" demonstrated a vocal and a maturity that was well beyond her years.
Interestingly, Rimes actually recorded the song twice.
An earlier version of the track had her laying down vocals in the studio at the tender age of 11. That take belongs on her independent album, All That. Rimes' re-recording of "Blue" appears on her No. 1 debut major label album of the same name, released in July 1996.
A breakthrough hit, the track reached No. 10 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and also peaked at No. 26 on the Billboard Hot 100. But what many folks may not know is that the earlier version of "Blue" is the one fans have become most familiar with, as reported by American Songwriter.
"They actually released the wrong version," Rimes previously told the outlet. "The one you've been hearing forever is me as an 11-year-old."
Regardless, "Blue" has continued to be a beloved track by fans far and wide as well as by industry insiders. In 2025, Rimes' version of "Blue" ranked at No. 99 on Billboard's ‘100 Best Country Songs of All Time' list.
Aside from "Blue," LeAnn Rimes is known for hits like "How Do I Live," "Can't Fight the Moonlight," "One Way Ticket (Because I Can)," and others.
Related: 1980 No. 1 Hit, Lasting 19 Weeks on the Charts, Ranked ‘Greatest Country Song of All Time'
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This story was originally published July 14, 2026 at 12:20 AM.