Roger Miller began his musical career as a songwriter in the late 1950’s….when he wrote such hits as “Billy Bayou” and “Home” for Jim Reeves….and “Invitation to the Blues” for Ray Price….when in 1953, Price formed his band, the Cherokee Cowboys…..and among its members during the late 1950’s and early 1960’s were Roger Miller, Willie Nelson, Darrell McCall, Van Howard, Johnny Paycheck, Johnny Bush, Buddy Emmons, Pete Wade, Jan Kurtis, Shorty Lavender and Buddy Spicher….as Miller wrote one of Ray Price’s classics in 1958, “Invitation to the Blues”….and sang harmony on the recording…..plus, Willie Nelson composed the Ray Price song “Night Life” during this time.
Roger Miller later began a recording career….while reaching the peak of his fame in the mid-1960’s…..and continuing to record and tour into the 1990’s….and charting his final top 20 country hit “Old Friends” with Willie Nelson in 1982.
As seen in this video herewith…..Roger Miller sings “Invitation To The Blues” live on stage at Austin City Limits in 1983.
