Patsy Cline was born Virginia Patterson Hensley in Gore, Virginia, on September 8, 1932. As a young girl living in poverty, she would sing along with Grand Ole Opry stars she heard on WSM broadcasts. Her goal was to become a member of the cast, and she took piano lessons to learn more about music. When Cline was 16, Opry regular Wally Fowler came to nearby Winchester, Virginia, and she managed to get a meeting with him. After hearing her sing, Fowler urged Cline to try out for the Opry. She soon took her first trip to Nashville where she got an audition for Grand Ole Opry but failed to get a contract. Cline then went back home to Virginia and continued singing in local taverns and clubs.