COUNTRY HISTORY

Today in 1948, the Nitty Gritty’s drummer and singer Jimmie Fadden was born in Long Beach, California. Today in 1964, the Statler Brothers open for Johnny Cash’s show in Canton, Ohio, when the Man in Black was…

Today in 1972, the "Kiss An Angel Good Mornin'" single by Charley Pride was certified gold. Today in 1975, Conway Twitty’s “Linda On My Mind” hit the top fo the Billboard country chart. Today in 1980,…

Today in 1971, Gilley’s nightclub, which served as the inspiration for the 1980 movie “Urban Cowboy,” opened in Pasadena Texas. Today in 1980, the “Classic Crystal” album by Crystal Gayle was certified gold. Today in 1980,…

Today in 1967, Merle Haggard’s “The Fugitive” rose to #1 on the Billboard chart for the first time. Today in 1975, Mac Davis won Favorite Male Musical Performer and Olivia Newton-John won the female honor in the…

Today in 1963, Patsy Cline, Hawkshaw Hawkins, and Cowboy Copas gave what proved to be their final show. It was a benefit for the widow of Kansas City deejay “Cactus Jack” Call. The three country stars…

Today in 1985, Gary Morris hit #1 on the charts for the first time with "Baby Bye Bye" from his album, “Faded Blue.” Today in 1987, the “Trio” album featuring Dolly Parton, Linda Ronstadt and Emmylou…

Today in 1949, Hank Williams recorded several songs: “Mind Your Own Business,” “Honky Tonk Blues,” “You’re Gonna Change (Or I’m Gonna Leave)” and “Lost Highway.” Today in 1957, The Everly Brothers recorded “I Wonder If I Care…

Today in 1966, at the first Academy of Country & Western Music awards, Roger Miller was named Man of the Year and Top Songwriter. Buck Owens, Merle Haggard, and Bonnie Owens also won big. Today in…

Today in 1949, Hank Williams Sr.'s "Lovesick Blues" was released. It was the song that got him his first invitation to perform on the Grand Ole Opry. Today in 1956, Elvis Presley received his first #1 record…

Today in 1969, Johnny Cash recorded his album “Johnny Cash At San Quentin,” including the song “A Boy Named Sue.” June Carter, Carl Perkins, The Carter Family, and the Statler Brothers performed with him. Today in…