Roy Orbison And The Radio Dj Who Risked His Job By Playing Crying Three Times In A Row

April 3, 2025

In the spring of 1961, as the sun dipped below the horizon, a small radio station in Texas was about to make waves that would echo through the music world. Jim, a young radio DJ at KTXR, had a knack for spotting talent that others overlooked. One evening, while rummaging through new records, he stumbled upon a song titled “Crying” by Roy Orbison. The haunting melody and Roy’s powerful voice struck a chord deep within him, and Jim felt an irresistible urge to share it. However, he didn’t just want to play it once; he wanted everyone to feel what he felt.

As the news spread that KTXR was playing “Crying,” listeners began to tune in. Jim couldn’t shake the feeling that this song was special. With passion bubbling inside him, he made a bold choice—he played it again, and then again, risking his job with every play. Jim knew that station managers cared about ratings and profits, but he believed that music had the power to change lives. The third time the song played, the phone lines lit up with calls from listeners who were mesmerized by Roy’s poignant lyrics. They were crying along with him, connecting deeply with the pain of lost love that he portrayed so beautifully.

As the night wore on, a sense of community grew in the airwaves. People felt understood, as if Roy Orbison was singing directly to them, sharing in their joys and sorrows. Jim, feeling a mix of exhilaration and fear, broadcast Roy’s song for a third time. That night, he didn’t just risk his job—he shifted the hearts of hundreds. By the time the final notes faded, KTXR had gained a loyal following, and the story of the DJ who dared to play “Crying” three times spread like wildfire.

The next morning, Jim received a call from the station manager. Instead of an angry reprimand, he was met with a surprising cheer. “You’ve tapped into something special here, kid,” his boss said. The station had seen a spike in listeners and even received letters of thanks from fans who had connected with the music. Meanwhile, Roy, who was still somewhat under the radar, began to notice a surge of interest in his music. This moment became a turning point in his career that helped him rise to prominence.

For Roy Orbison, the unexpected support from a devoted DJ opened doors he had only dreamed about. With his unique sound and passionate performances, he soon became a legend in the music industry. Jim remained at KTXR, his courage inspiring his colleagues and forging a bond with the community that loved music. The story of the night he played “Crying” three times in a row became a symbol of the power of belief in artistry and music’s ability to unite people.

Years later, as Roy stood on stage, singing to thousands of fans, he often reflected on how a simple act of bravery from a radio DJ had changed the course of his life. Music was more than just a career; it was a connection—a lifeline. The moment Jim took that risk was a testament to the belief that sometimes, to create magic, you have to be willing to step outside the lines and embrace the extraordinary.