COUNTRY HISTORY

Today in 1949, Loretta Webb married Oliver “Mooney” Lynn in Butcher Holler, Kentucky. Mooney gave Loretta her first guitar, became her first manager, and inspired some of her feisty music. They were married until his death…

Today in 1960, Patsy Cline became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Today in 1961, Johnny Horton’s “North to Alaska” reached #1 in Billboard. Today in 1982, a five-mile stretch of Gallatin Road in Hendersonville, Tennessee was renamed the Johnny…

Today in 1980, Kenny Rogers has seven GRAMMY nominations, including “The Gambler” for Record of the Year. Roger’s producer, Larry Butler, was nominated for Producer of the Year. Today in 1983, Reba McEntire’s “Can’t Even Get The Blues” achieved…

Today in 1961, Faron Young recorded “Hello Walls” at the Bradley Film & Recording Studio. Today in 1967, Charley Pride became the first black-American solo singer to perform on Grand Ole Opry. Today in 1978, Johnny Paycheck’s “Take…

Today in 1950, Sam Phillips opened the Sun Recording Studio, originally known as the Memphis Recording Service, at 706 Union Avenue in Memphis. It became a site for sessions by Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins…

Today in 1975, "Austin City Limits" premiered on PBS with Willie Nelson as the first featured guest. The set list included "Good Hearted Woman," "Whiskey River," "Okie From Muskogee" and "Will The Circle Be Unbroken." Today…

Today in 1944, Bob Willis & The Texas Playboys appeared on the Grand Ole Opry, which caused a stir when Monte Mountjoy’s drum set was moved onto the stage last minute. Drums were previously not allowed.…

Today in 1944, Bob Willis & The Texas Playboys appeared on the Grand Ole Opry, which caused a stir when Monte Mountjoy’s drum set was moved onto the stage last minute. Drums were previously not allowed.…

Today in 1947, NBC introduces a children's TV show titled "Puppet Playhouse." The program evolves into "Howdy Doody," name-checked in the lyrics of The Statler Brothers' 1972 country hit "Do You Remember These" Today in 1948,…

Today in 1950, Lefty Frizzell hit #1 on the Billboard country chart with his debut single, “If You’ve Got The Money I’ve Got The Time.” Today in 1968, Tammy Wynette’s album, “Stand By Your Man,” was released.…