How long did this take to happen?

I've been thinking about a country legend while I listen to YouTube. It's been my best source to get some Wayne Kemp music. And what I often listen to is my favorite song from Wayne, and it didn't become a hit for him.

In fact, "Who'll Turn Out The Lights?" only finished 57th on the country charts in 1971. He didn't exactly ply his trade as a singer, but rather, creating big hits for other singers. For someone who dang near lost his life in a fiery automobile...