Jim's song "The Writing's On The Wall" has always been in the top 10 for me. It is really difficult to believe it was never overdubbed from the demo and released during his life time.

Mike, I think you are close to the original recording date. I think it was in 1961. According to Larry's book, Jim Reeves-His Untold Story" page 541 discusses this song and mentions that Jim went to Starday on Feb. 23rd to record the demo.

Also discussed on the same page is the revelation that Alex Zanetis may never have written this song or others that Jim recorded. Larry points out evidence from Ray Baker and Bud Logan that suggests Alex simply bought these songs from other writers.

Drake, you may want to go to YouTube and check out "The Writing's On The wall...with intro". Larry discusses this 'live mike' chatter that is quite interesting (showing Jim's human side) and can be heard on this particular version. As far as having a falling out between Jim and Alex, I seem to remember it had to do with a business deal gone wrong. And I think that Jim did, at least for a while, refuse to record any of Alexs' songs, or at least the ones he claimed to author.....