COUNTRY HISTORY

Today in 1998, Garth Brooks’ “Double Live” album was released, the same day new albums from Jewel, Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston hit record stores. After the dust had settled on what record stores called…

Today in 2010, the movie, “Country Strong,” starring Gwyneth Paltrow and Tim McGraw, premiered at Nashville’s Green Hills 16 theaters. The film, about an emotionally unstable country music star who attempts to resurrect her career,…

This day in 2002: Johnny Cash's "American IV: The Man Comes Around" album was released. It's the last album of new material issued during the singer's life. The album was included in the book "1001…

Today in 1978, Barbara Mandrell had her first #1 hit on the country charts with "Sleeping Single In A Double Bed.” Written by Kye Fleming and Dennis Morgan, it was the first single from her…

Today in 2012, Blake Shelton won three trophies during the 46th annual Country Music Association awards, broadcast on ABC from the Bridgestone Arena in Nashville. He takes Entertainer of the Year and Male Vocalist and…

Today in 1982, Alabama made their first appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. Alabama was founded by Randy Owen (lead vocals, rhythm guitar) and his cousin Teddy Gentry (bass, backing vocals). They were soon joined…

Today in 1968, Johnny Cash's "comeback" was complete when his album, "At Folsom Prison," was certified gold. 'At Folsom Prison' is a live album released on Columbia Records in May 1968. After his 1955 song…

Today in 1976, Elvis Presley recorded his last hit record, "Way Down," at his studio in the Graceland Mansion. The raw, unedited version can be found on the album, "Our Memories of Elvis, Vol. II."…

Today in 1994, Ronnie Dunn and his wife, Janine, welcomed their daughter, Haley Marie.

Today in 1984, Alabama became the first country group to go triple-platinum, with the "Feels So Right" and "Mountain Music" albums each certified for shipment of three million copies. The albums "Roll On" and "The…