COUNTRY HISTORY

Today in 1983, Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton received a gold single for “Islands In The Stream.” Today in 1984, Mickey Gilley was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Today in 1997, Deana Carter…

Today in 1968, Glen Campbell’s albums, "By The Time I Get To Phoenix," and "Gentle On My Mind" were certified gold. Today in 1979, the album, "Willie Nelson Sings Kristofferson," was released. Today in 1989,…

Today in 1954, Elvis Presley made his first appearance on "The Louisiana Hayride," singing "That's All Right" and "Blue Moon Of Kentucky" two times each. Drummer D.J. Fontana plays with Presley for the first time, though he's…

Today in 1975, Minnie Pearl was elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame. Today in 1975, John Denver was named Entertainer of the Year at the ninth annual CMA Awards. The award presentation didn’t exactly go…

Today in 1981, the 15th annual CMA Awards were held. In a history-making move, Barbara Mandrell won Female Vocalist honors as well as Entertainer of the Year for the second year in a row (she was…

Today in 1981, Willie Nelson recorded "Always On My Mind" and "The Last Thing I Needed First Thing This Morning" at his Pedernales Studio outside of Austin, Texas. Today in 1981, the Nashville Songwriters Hall Of Fame…

Today in 1977, three people were arrested by police in Memphis, Tennessee and later charged with attempting to steal the body of Elvis Presley, who had been buried at the local Forest Hill cemetery a week…

Today in 1929, Gene Autry began his first recording session. Today in 1967, the "Ode to Billy Joe" album by Bobbie Gentry was certified gold. Today in 1976, Bobby Bare's single, "Dropkick Me Jesus (Through the Goalposts of…

Today in 1983, George Strait's “Right Or Wrong” album was released. Today in 1990, Alan Jackson made his Grand Ole Opry debut. Today in 1990, Garth Brooks became the 65th member of the Grand Ole Opry. The same day,…

Today in 1925, WSM Radio in Nashville started broadcasting. One of its first programs was "WSM Barn Dance" which was renamed "Grand Ole Opry" two years later. It became the longest running radio show in history.…