COUNTRY HISTORY

Today in 1949, a classic version of "Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer," was recorded by Gene Autry, who didn't like when he first heard it. As it turned out though, America couldn't get enough of his rendition…

Today in 1964, Connie Smith signed with RCA Records. Today in 1974, "Back Home Again" album by John Denver was certified gold. Today in 1989, Garth Brooks made his Grand Ole Opry debut. Today in 1991, the "What Do…

Today in 1952, Kitty Wells’ “It Wasn’t God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels” was released. Today in 1956, Ray Price spent the first of 20 weeks at #1 in Billboard magazine with “Crazy Arms.” Today in 1979, the…

Today in 1951, MGM releases Hank Williams' "Hey, Good Lookin'" Today in 1977, Kenny Rogers' single, “Lucille," was certified gold. Today in 1995, “The Woman in Me” album by Shania Twain was certified platinum. Today in 1998, the…

Today in 1975, "Rhinestone Cowboy" by Glen Campbell entered the Top 40 chart. Today in 1975, Don Williams topped the country charts with "You're My Best Friend." Today in 1976, Reba McEntire married Charlie Battles in Oklahoma. They…

Today in 1981, "Queen Of Hearts" by Juice Newton entered the Top 40 chart. Today in 1981, Dolly Parton’s single, “But You Know That I Love You,” graced the top of the country charts. Today in 1991, Mickey…

Today in 1975, J. Thomas found his way to the top of the Billboard country chart with one of country music's longest song titles: "(Hey Won't You Play) Another Somebody Done Somebody Wrong Song." Today in…

Today in 1981, the Oak Ridge Boys’ single, “Elvira,” was certified gold. Today in 1989, Ricky Skaggs topped the country charts with "Lovin' Only Me." Today in 1992, Pam Tillis’ “Put Yourself In My Place” album was certified…

Today in 1969, "Hee Haw" with Roy Clark & Buck Owens premiered on CBS TV. Despite its popularity, the show was soon canceled, but thrived in syndication for over 20 more years. Today in 1974, "Annie's Song"…

Today in 1961, Patsy Cline sustained serious head injuries and a fractured hip in a car accident in Madison, Tennessee. Today in 1975 Linda Ronstadt's remake of The Everly Brothers' "When Will I Be Loved" tops the…