COUNTRY HISTORY

Today in 1967, Bobbie Gentry released her only hit: "Ode to Billy Joe." Today in 1972, "Baby, Don't Get Hooked On Me," by Mac Davis entered the Top 40 chart. Today in 1989, Dolly Parton's single, "Why'd You…

Today in 1959, Skeeter Davis joined the Grand Ole Opry. Today in 1963, Connie Smith won a talent contest in Columbus, Ohio, and gained the attention of guest artist Bill Anderson, who helped her get her first recording…

Today in 1958, Johnny Cash signed with Columbia Records. Today in 1973, Charlie Rich's “Behind Closed Doors” album was released. Today in 1977, Waylon Jennings' album, “Are You Ready For The Country,” was certified gold. Today in 1981, Kix…

Today in 1964, Country Music Hall of Fame member, Jim Reeves, died when his single-engine Beechcraft plane crashed near Nashville, Tennessee. Today in 1985, Patsy Cline's “Greatest Hits” album was certified gold. Today in 1991, Travis Tritt's single, "Country…

Today in 1955, Johnny Cash records his first version of "Folsom Prison Blues," "Luther Played The Boogie" and "So Doggone Lonesome" at the Sun Recording Studio in Memphis. Today in 1985, Alabama became the first country act…

Today in 1972, Barbara Mandrell became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Today in 1981, the "Fancy Free" album by the Oak Ridge Boys was certified platinum. Today in 1992, Garth Brooks self-titled debut album was certified…

Today in 1957, Jerry Lee Lewis made his TV debut on "The Steve Allen Show," kicking his piano stool across the stage during "Whole Lot Of Shakin' Going On." Today in 1969, the album, “Tammy's Greatest Hits,”…

Today in 1981, "Elvira" by Oak Ridge Boys peaked at #5 on the pop singles chart. Today in 1989, the album, “Don't Close Your Eyes,” by Keith Whitley was certified gold. Today in 1989, Earl Thomas Conley's “Greatest…

Today in 1948, Opry legend Roy Acuff announced his intent to run for governor of Tennessee. He did eventually run for office against the incumbent and lost. He also campaigned for the job twice more and…

Today in 1977, Alabama debuted on the charts with their first single, “I Wanna Be With You Tonight.” Today in 1981, the Oak Ridge Boys’ album, “Fancy Free,” was certified gold. Today in 1990, the “Livin' It Up”…