COUNTRY HISTORY

Today in 1950, WSM-AM radio's country music showcase, "Grand Ole Opry," was telecast for the first time. Today in 1977, Elvis Presley’s “Welcome To My World” album was certified gold. Today in 1984, the album, “His Epic -…

Today in 1976, Jerry Lee Lewis was arrested. He was celebrating his birthday by popping off a few rounds on his .357 Magnum. Two of those rounds hit bass player Butch Owens square in the chest.…

Today in 1928, the first recording session in Nashville took place at the YMCA. One of the first acts to be recorded was Warmack's Gully Jumpers. Today in 1956, RCA Records credited Elvis Presley with selling more…

Today in 1993, The Nashville Songwriters Hall Of Fame inducted Don Schlitz, who authored "The Gambler" and "On The Other Hand"; Red Lane, known for "My Own Kind Of Hat" and "'Til I Get It Right";…

Today in 1962, Hall of Famers Flatt and Scruggs recorded "The Ballad of Jed Clampett.” It went on to become the theme song of the TV series, “The Beverly Hillbillies.” Today in 1977, just one month after his apparent…

Today in 1972, the single, “Baby Don't Get Hooked On Me,” by Mac Davis was at #1 on the pop singles chart. Today in 1974, the Mac Davis album, “Stop & Smell The Roses,” was certified gold.…

Today in 1973, a day after Gram Parsons died, his body was stolen during transfer at the Los Angeles International Airport, then taken to Joshua Tree, where it was burned, in accordance with his request. Road…

Today in 1960, Loretta Lynn made her Grand Ole Opry debut. Today in 1977, Reba McEntire made her debut on the Grand Ole Opry. She performed “Invitation to the Blues.” Today in 1996, Alabama released their second holiday…

Today in 1967, Tammy Wynette scored her #1 hit when she topped the “Billboard” country singles chart with “My Elusive Dreams,” her duet with David Houston. Today in 1985, the “Alabama Christmas” album by Alabama was released.…

Today in 1957, Patsy Cline married Charlie Dick. Today in 1972, Merle Haggard's The Best Of The Best Of Merle Haggard album was released. Today in 1978, Kenny Rogers' “Love Of Something Like It” album…