COUNTRY HISTORY

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 1983, CMT made its cable debut with Faron Young’s video “It’s Four In The Morning.” Today in 1999, Sara Evans got her first #1 single with “No Place That Far.” Today in 1999, George…

Today in 1960, Elvis Presley was discharged from the Army. Today in 1963, a plane crash in Tennessee claimed the lives of Patsy Cline, Cowboy Copas, Hawkshaw Hawkins and pilot Randy Hughes as they returned to Nashville…

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 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 1961, Marty Robbins didn’t have a care in the world – as he was atop Billboard country single with “Don’t Worry.” Today in 1982, Don Williams was at #1 on the Billboard country singles…

Today in 1987, George Strait’s “Strait From The Heart” turned into a gold album and he received a platinum award for his “Greatest Hits.” Today in 1997, LeAnn Rimes won two trophies, Best New Artist and Best…

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…