October 26 in Country Music History

In 1985, the Oak Ridge Boys were at Number One with "Touch A Hand, Make A Friend". 

In 1991, Travis Tritt began a two week run at the top of the charts with "Anymore". 

In 1999, singer, songwriter, and actor Hoyt Axton passed away.  Although he wasn't a regular on the charts, he did have a top ten with "Boney Fingers".  As a songwriter, he had many smash hits, including "Joy to the World", "Never Been To Spain", "The Pusher", and "Greenback Dollar".  He was the son of Mae Boren Axton who  was a songwriter of note, including a credit on "Heartbreak Hotel".

June 13 in Country Music History

In 1959, Roy Drusky joined the Grand Ole Opry. This popular singer with the smooth baritone was oftened compared to Eddie Arnold. He and Priscilla Mitchell(Jerry Reed's wife) had a Number One with "Yes, Mr. Peters", and he also had big hits with "Second Hand Rose", "Peel Me A Nanner", "(From Now On All My Friends Are Gonna Be) Strangers, "Rainbows and Roses", and "Red Red Wine".

In 1981, Kenny Rogers and Dottie West went to Number One on the Charts as they sang "What Are We Doing In Love". 

In 1987, Randy Travis was at Number One with "Forever and Ever, Amen".  It spent three weeks there. 

In 1996, gospel star Wendy Bagwell passed away. Most famous for his snake story, he and the Sunliters were a major force in Southern gospel music.

June 12 in Country Music History

In 1952, singer-songwriter-guitarist Junior Brown was born in Kirksville, Indiana.  He only had two charted hits, but this talented artist is in demand on the true country circuit, as he has a great voice, and is great on that combination steel guitar/electric guitar that he built, called a guitsteel. 

In 1954, Johnny and Jack went to Number One with "(Oh Baby Mine )I Get So Lonely".  It held that position for two weeks. 

In 1965, Tex Ritter joined the Grand Ole Opry.  This talented performer is a Hall of Fame member had twenty five charted hits.  Of his first fifteen, fourteen were Top Tens, with the other being a Number Fifteen.  Of those Top Tens, three were Number Ones, and three were Number Twos.  He has an impressive resume as a singer, guitarist and actor.

In 1976, Crystal Gale went to the top of the charts with "I'll Get Over You".

In 1978, singer-songwriter-actor-author Johnny Bond died in Burbank, California.  He wrote "I Wonder Where You Are Tonight", one of my favorite songs, which is good enough to be anybody's Number One.

In 1980, Milburn Stone, aka Doc Galen Adams to Gunsmoke fans, and a member of the Wester Performers Hall of Fame at the National Western and Cowboy Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma passed away.  He also was a talented singer and square dance caller.

In 1982, The Bellamy Brothers scored a Number One "For All The Wrong Reasons".

In 2008, Danny Davis, leader of the Nashville Brass, passed away after suffering a heart attack. 

June 11 in Country Music History

In 1939, Wilma Burgess was born in Orlando, Florida.  "Misty Blue" was the biggest of her fifteen charted hits, topping out at Number Four. 

In 1949 Hank Williams debuted as a guest on the Grand Ole Opry. He appeared on the 9:30-10:00 PM segment sponsored by Warren Paint, and hosted by Ernest Tubb. He sang "Lovesick Blues," and received six encores, according to legend.  Porter Wagoner has said that this happened on his first visit to the Opry, when he was just a fan with the price of admission in his pocket. 

In 1969, Jay McDowell of BR-549 was born in Bedford, Indiana.  Though they only charted three times, this band has always been one of the best, and most talented, in country music.  They lean towards the old sounds which were popular when Bob Wills, Hank Williams, and Ray Price ruled the charts.


In 1979, the great Western actor John Wayne passed away from cancer.

In 1983, Crystal Gayle went to Number One with "Our Love Is On The Faultline".

In 1988, Patty Loveless, cousin of Loretta Lynn, joined the Grand Ole Opry.  She has charted forty four times with five of them being Number One hits.  Fourteen more of her songs were Top Ten hits, so she has had a great career.  She is one of the most talented female singers in the history of country music, as she, like Janie Fricke, has sang back up on many cuts for other performers.  

In 1988, Randy Travis scored a chart topper with "I Told You So".  The hit stayed at Number One for two weeks. 

In 1994, Brooks and Dunn went to Number One with "That Ain't No Way To Go".

June 10 in Country Music History

In 1944, Nat King Cole went to Number One on the newly christened country charts with "Straighten Up And Fly Right".  He owned that spot for six weeks. 

In 1952, Thom Schuyler, once a part of SKO, Schuyler, Knobloch, and Overstreet, and also Schulyer, Knobloch, and Bickhardt,   and noted singer, songwriter, and music executive, was born in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania.  As a performer, he has been associated as a solo artist or part of the above three acts with charted hits a total of nine times, including with the Number One hit, "Baby's Got A New Baby". 

In 1978, Willie Nelson had a Number One with "Georgia On My Mind".

In 1988, Herman Crook of the Crook Brothers passed away.  He was the harmonica player for the immensely popular group. 

In 1988, Ricky Van Shelton joined the Grand Ole Opry.

In 1989, Clint Black was leaving here a "Better Man" with a Number One attached to it.  I often wonder how big a star Clint Black would have been if he had stuck with the kind of material with which he was so successful at the beginning of his career, like this one, and "Killin' Time". 

In 1997, one of our favorites, Carolina Cotton, passed away from cancer. 

In 1998, Steve Sanders, who was associated with the Oak Ridge Boys as a singer and musician, died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound in Florida. We have a gospel album he recorded as a youngster that listed him as Little Stevie Sanders. He also worked as an actor, and was particularly memorable in an episode of "Gunsmoke".

In 2004, Ray Charles, whose album, "Modern Sounds In Country and Western" redefined the parameters of country music, passed away after a bout with cancer.  

June 9 in Country Music History

In 1915, Les Paul, Grammy award winning guitarist, was born in Waukesha, Wisconsin.  His contributions to ALL types of music cannot be overstated. 

In 1973, Johnny Rodriguez went to the top of the charts with "You Always Come Back (To Hurting Me)".  It was his first Number One hit in a brilliant career, which started going down when he became trapped in substance abuse, and all of the problems that accompany it. 

In 1979, Kenny Rogers was atop the charts for two weeks with "She Believes In Me".  This was his seventh Number One hit, out of over twenty he has scored in his career. 

In 1984, "Someday When Things Are Good" topped the charts for Merle Haggard, a song co-written with his one-time wife, Leona Williams.  By the time this song topped the charts, their marriage was history, so things must have been good. 

In 1990, George Strait began a five week run at the top of the charts with "Love Without End, Amen".  It was written by Aaron Barker, who, like Dean Dillon, has made a pretty good career out of writing songs that Strait took high on the country music charts. 

June 8 in Country Music History

In 1916, Adolf Hofner was born in Moulton, Texas.  He was a Western Swing pioneer. 

In 1921, singing cowboy Monte Hale was born in San Angelo, Texas.

In 1938, Mack Vickery, extremely talented songwriter, was born in Town Creek, Alabama.  His biggest hit was "Fireman" for George Strait, although he has songs that have been recorded by many of the biggest country stars, including George Jones, Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, Johnny Paycheck, Lefty Frizzell, Faron Young, John Anderson, and Tanya Tucker. 

In 1941, singer,songwriter, and musician Vernon Oxford, maybe one of the most countriest of the country, was born in Rogers, Arkansas.  He charted seven records in the seventies, but has a cult following, simply because he is one of the few singers that can make true country fans cry in their beer, their soda, or in whatever they are drinking at that time. 

In 1964, Alton Delmore of the Delmore Brothers died in Huntsville, Alabama.

In 1974, Dolly Parton took "I Will Always Love You" to Number One, a tribute rumored to be to Porter Wagoner as the duet broke up.

In 1985, Merle Haggard took "Natural High" to Number One. 

In 1996, George Strait added "Blue Clear Sky" to his collection of Number Ones.  This song, written by Bobby DePiero, was at the top spot for two weeks. 

June 7 in Country Music History

In 1917, Dean Martin was born. He was a very gifted actor, especially in Westerns, and was also a great vocalist. I especially love to hear him sing with Ricky Nelson in Rio Bravo. He did a credible job on his album of country favorites.

In 1934, Wynn Stewart was born in Morrisville, Missouri.  He charted thirty one times with his biggest hit being the chart topping "It's Such A Pretty World Today". 

In 1947, Bob Wills went to the top of the charts with "Sugar Moon".  

In 1956, singer-songwriter Larry Boone was born in Cooper City, Florida.

In 1959, while at home in his house trailer near Knoxville, Tennessee, Don Gibson wrote "I Can't Stop Loving You" and "Oh Lonesome Me".  At least that is the legend.  When the legend becomes bigger than fact, use it.  I believe he did. 

In 1966, Claudette Orbison, wife of Roy Orbison, was killed in a motorcycle accident.  She was the inspiration for his big hit, "In Dreams", in which he shows his whole vocal range. 

In 1969, The Johnny Cash Show debuted from the Ryman Auditorium.

In 1975, Mickey Gilley climbed to the top of the charts with "Window Up Above".

In 1986, Ronnie Milsap scored a Number One with "Happy, Happy Birthday Baby".

In 1991, Alan Jackson joined the Grand Ole Opry.  They still had the original barn set back then, in the good old days.  

June 6 in Country Music History

In 1885, Gid Tanner of the Skillet Lickers was born in Thomas Bridge, Georgia.

In 1943, Joe Stampley was born in Springhill, Louisiana.  He has charted sixty two times, with four of them going to the Number One spot on the charts.  He also has credit for fourteen additional Top Ten records.  His biggest hits were "Soul Song", "All These Things", a duet with Moe Bandy, "Just Good Ol' Boys", and "Roll On Big Mama". 

In 1944, D-Day, Grant Turner debuted as Grand Ole Opry announcer.

In 1953, after his death, Hank Williams scored a Number One again with "Take These Chains From My Heart".   This hit occupied the top spot for four weeks. 

In 1955, singer-songwriter Curtis Wright was born. 

In 1964, Buck Owens added another Number One to his collection with "Together Again".  It owned the spot for two weeks. 

In 1970, "Hello, Darlin'" became a Number One and a fan favorite for Conway Twitty.  This signature tune stayed at the top of the charts for four weeks. 

In 1973, Lisa Brokop was born in Canada. Though she charted six times, this talented performer never received the break she needed.

In 1981, Razzy Bailey scored a chart-topper with "Friends", one of his five chart toppers. 

In 1987, Dan Seals went to Number One on the charts with "I Will Be There". 

In 1984, Lorrie Morgan, daughter of George Morgan, joined the Grand Ole Opry. 

June 5 in Country Music History

In 1943, The Grand Ole Opry moved from War Memorial Auditorium to the Ryman Auditorium, where it would stay until 1974. 

In 1945, Don Reid of the Statler Brothers was born in Staunton, Virginia. That's what the book says. I was just wondering how he got to be a member of the Class of '57 at age twelve. (I always thought Harold was the smart one).

In 1948, Patricia Gail Dickerson, aka Gail Davies, was born in Broken Bow, Oklahoma. A major part of the "Caught In The Webb" tribute, she is one of the unsung greats in our industry. She put over twenty hits on the charts, with many of them being Top Ten hits.  Not only is she a major talent, she is a very nice lady who always has time for the fans

In 1948, Eddie Arnold went to the top spot on the charts with "Bouquet of Roses". He owned this spot from November 1,1947 until January 22, 1949, with "I'll Hold You In My Heart (Till I Can Hold You In My Arms", "Anytime", "Bouquet of Roses", "Texarkana Baby", "Just A Little Lovin" (Will Go A Long Way", and "A Heart Full Of Love(For A Handful Of Kisses)", with Jimmy Wakely being the only other artist to hold the position with "One Has My Name(The Other Has My Heart)" for eleven weeks.  By the way, on other charts, his "Texarkana Baby" was Number One on this date. 

In 1965, The Tennessee Plowboy, Eddy Arnold, scored a Number One with "What's He Doing In My World". 

In 1967, Lonzo Sullivan of Lonzo and Oscar passed away.

In 1971, Lynn Anderson began a two week stint at the top of the charts with "You're My Man".  With sixty charted hits, five of which were Number Ones, and thirteen more Top Tens, she certainly deserves respect as a country music artist.  

In 1972, Big John graduated from Milton High School, despite the fact that he rarely showed up for classes.  He has sung on TV, sponsored concerts, worked as a promoter, worked in artist management, and worked with his daughter in Takingthecountryback.com.  

In 1980, "Urban Cowboy" premiered in Houston, Texas. 

In 1982, T.G. Sheppard had a Number One, "Finally". Actually it was one of fourteen chart toppers for this star who peaked in the 80s.

In 1993, Toby Keith hit Number One with "Should've Been A Cowboy". Sometimes I wish he had been. 

In 1993, Country Music Hall of Famer Conway Twitty died in Missouri from an aneurysm.  Conway had an astounding forty Number One country hits, and another thirty five Top Ten hist, from a total of ninety seven charted country hits.  No wonder he was called "The Best Friend A Song Ever Had". 

June 4 in Country Music History

In 1910, Ruby Owens, aka Texas Ruby, was born in Wise County, Texas.

In 1924, actor Dennis Weaver was born. Known especially for his appearances as Chester on Gunsmoke, and "McCloud", he was also passionate about his country music, having appeared in a Trio along with Amanda Blake and Milburn Stone that broke attendance records, and also was host of the syndicated show, "Country Top Twenty" which also featured Frizzell and West at the very first of their career as solo and duet stars.

In 1929, The Midnight Cowboy, Bill Mack, was born in Shamrock, Texas.  He also was a talented singer and songwriter, as well as a tv host, who probably is most famous for hosting Buck Owen's syndicated show.  He wrote several big hits, including "Drinking Champagne", "Blue", and the great gospel standard, "Clinging To A Saving Hand". 

In 1937, Pee Wee King debuted on the Grand Ole Opry.

In 1937, Baldemar O. Huerta, aka Freddy Fender, was born in San Benito, Texas. He charted twenty one hits in his career, which also was filled with acting and stints as a member of major bands, including the Texas Tornadoes and Los Super Seven.  Among his hits were four of the most well known hits in country music, all Number Ones:  "Before The Next Teardrop Falls", "Wasted Days And Wasted Nights", "Secret Love", and "You'll Lose A Good Thing".  Having met this fantastic entertainer, I remember him as a very gracious, and appreciative person.  We once watched two shows, and he mingled with the crowds, signed autographs, posed for pictures, and even danced with many of the ladies.  He was much like Gene Watson in this respect. 

In 1974, Dolly Parton and Porter Wagoner performed as a regular act for the last time on the Grand Ole Opry.

In 1982, the first Alabama Jam debuted in Fort Payne, Alabama.

In 1983, Waylon Jennings scored a Number One with "Lucille (You Won't Do Your Daddy's Will)".

In 1988, Earl Thomas Conley clinched the top spot on the charts with "What She Is (Is A Woman In Love).

In 1994, early Grand Ole Opry star Zeke Clement passed away in Nashville.

In 2001, the talented John Hartford passed away.  He was a singer, songwriter, TV star, and musician, who could play many instruments, although he was most famous for his ability as a guitarist and banjo player.  He wrote "Gentle On My Mind", which gave him the financial independence to enjoy his life in the entertainment business.  I can still remember him walking around at Fan Fair at the old State Fairgrounds.  He was quiet, and unassuming, even though he was one of the most talented people in the world. 

June 3 in Country Music History

In 1914, Curly Williams was born in Cairo, Georgia. He wrote "Half As Much", made famous by Hank Williams. 

In 1927, Boots Randolph was born in Paducah, Kentucky.  He is famous for his "Yakety Sax". 

In 1948, Too Slim of Riders in the Sky was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan.  Riders in the Sky is known for writing, scoring movies, and their two Grammy awards. 

In 1949, Hank Williams said good bye to the Louisiana Hayride audience before moving up to the Grand Ole Opry. 

In 1967, Bakersfield Sound pioneer and Missouri Country Music Hall of Famer Wynn Stewart went to Number One on the charts with the top song of his career: "It's Such A Pretty World Today".  It held the position for two weeks. 

In 1972, the sunshine shined on Donna Fargo and her Number One hit "The Happiest Girl In The Whole USA". It stayed there for three weeks.

In 1989, Steve Wariner went to Number One with "Where Did I Go Wrong".

In 1994, Grand Ole Opry member Wally Fowler passed away. 

In 1995, Van Stoneman of the Stoneman Family passed away.

In 2000, Kenny Chesney and Tim McGraw were arrested in Buffalo, New York. The charges should have been conspiring to be impersonating COUNTRY singers.  However, looking back, they are both more talented than most of the current crop of "country" singers. 

June 2 in Country Music History

In 1927, Carl Butler of Carl and Pearl Butler was born in Knoxville, Tennessee.

In 1958, The Everly Brothers went to Number One on the charts with "All I Have To Do Is Dream".  It stayed there for three weeks.  I wonder how many times Ira Louvin had to rebuild his mandolin listening to them perform this on the Opry? 

In 1984, Ricky Skaggs added a Number One to his collection with "Honey (Open That Door)".

In 1990, Ricky Shelton scored a Number One with "I've Cried My Last Tear For You". 

In 1998, Helen Carter, of the Carter Sisters, and daughter of Mother Maybelle Carter, passed away. 

June 1 in Country Music History

In 1886, Elsie McWilliams, sister-in-law of Jimmie Rogers, and cowriter of many of his songs, was born in Mississippi.

In 1915, Country Music Hall of Fame member Johnny Bond was born in Enville, Oklahoma. He was very popular in the forties, and had seven Top Ten hits.  He wrote "I Wonder Where You Are Tonight" which may be the best song ever written that did not go to Number One. In fact, I don't think it ever made the charts. Somebody give this song the ride it deserves.

In 1920, Esmereldy, The Streamlined Hillbilly aka Verna Sherrill, and mother of Amy Holland(wife of Michael McDonald of the Doobie Brothers), was born in Middleton, Tennessee.

In 1925, Jimmie Dale Warren of the Sons of the Pioneers was born in Kentucky.

In 1926, Andy Griffith, talented actor, singer, and musician, was born in Mount Airy, North Carolina. I happened to catch his Opry performance at the Ryman Auditorium, and he was awesome.

In 1935, Hazel Dickens, bluegrass pioneer, was born in West Virginia.

In 1941, talented singer-songwriter-guitarist Wayne Kemp was born in Greenwood, Arkansas.

In 1953, The Lonestar State welcomed the birth of Ronnie Dunn.

In 1974, Ronnie Milsap scored a Number One with "Pure Love".

In 1985, Conway Twitty took "Don't Call Him A Cowboy" to Number One on the Billboard Charts.

In 1991, Alan Jackson released the four million selling "Don't Rock The Jukebox".

In 1991, Diamond Rio took "Meet In The Middle" to Number One on the charts.  It stayed there for two weeks. 

May 31 in Country Music History

In 1922, Vic Willis of the Willis Brothers was born in Oklahoma.  The Willis Brothers were most famous for "Give Me Forty Acres(To Turn This Rig Around" in 1964, a Top Ten hit. 

In 1938, Donald Eugene Lytle, aka Donnie Young, aka Johnny Paycheck, was born in Greenfield, Ohio.  Paycheck charted sixty hits, with "Take This Job And Shove It" being his only Number One hit, but he had ten more Top Ten hits, and many Top Forty hits.  His name was synonymous with Country Music, as he played with some of the most famous performers in Country Music, including George Jones, Ray Price, Faron Young, and Porter Wagoner.  His life's story also read like a great country song.  Ms. Liz, Miss Erin, and I saw his last performance at Fan Fair in 1997, when they had to tote him out on stage sitting on a stool, and he had to phrase his words, then gulp oxygen, in order to sing.  He still did a great job.  I still get choked up when I hear "Old Violin". 

In 1954, Paul Franklin, steel guitarist of note, was born in Detroit, Michigan. He has played on a lot of hits. 

In 1969, Tammy Wynette took "Singing My Song" to Number One on the charts.  It stayed there for two weeks. 

In 1975, John Denver took "Thank God I'm A Country Boy" to Number One on the charts.

In 1977, Lloyd Perryman of the Sons fo the Pioneers died in Colorado Springs, Colorado. 

In 1980, Ronnie Milsap took "My Heart" to the top of the charts.  It occupied the top spot for three weeks. 

In 1986, Reba McIntyre went to the top spot on the charts with "Whoever's in New England".

In 1991, Lib Hatcher, Randy Travis' manager, became his wife, as well.  They are now divorced. 

May 30 in Country Music History

In 1909, Lewis Crook, of the Crook Brothers, was born in Castalian Springs, Tennessee.  They were major Grand Ole Opry stars. 

In 1926, fiddle virtuoso and legend Johnny Gimble was born near Tyler, Texas.  He has been the CMA musician of the year many times, and is a legend in Texas Swing music, having even played with The Texas Playboys of Bob Wills. 

In 1942, publishing and producing great Tom Collins was born in Lenoir, Tennessee.

In 1960, Grand Ole Opry member Mike Snider was born in Gleason, Tennessee. He is one of the finest comedians and instrumentalists to hit the Opry stage.

In 1964, Wynonna Judd, nee Christina Claire Ciminella, was born in Ashland , Kentucky.

In 1966, Dolly Parton and Carl Dean were married in Georgia.

In 1981, the  Oak Ridge Boys went to Number one with "Elvira". Did you know that Kenny Rogers and the First Edition had this same number on their "Tell It All, Brother" album. There were some great cuts on that First Edition album, but this wasn't one of them.

In 1987, The Oak Ridge Boys went to Number One with "It Takes A Little Rain(To Make Love Grow)".

May 29 in Country Music History

In 1965, "This Is It", by Jim Reeves, reclaimed the Number One spot on the charts.  It stayed there a total of three weeks.

In 1971, "I Won't Mention It Again", by Ray Price, began its last of three weeks at the top of the charts.  

In 1976, Johnny Cash had a Number One Hit and apparently a new car. He got it "One Piece At A Time". It stayed there for two weeks.  There really was a car built for this song, and the accompanying video.  It used to sit at the House of Cash. 

In 1982, Waylon and Willie were at the top of the charts with "Just To Satisfy You", for the second week. 

In 1993, John Michael Montgomery began his third, and last, week at the top of the charts with "I LoveThe Way You Love Me". 

May 28 in Country Music History

In 1945, Honky-tonk singer Gary Stewart was born in Letcher County, Kentucky.  He charted thirty hits, with his biggest hits being "She's Actin' Single(I'm Drinkin' Doubles)", "Out Of Hand", and "Drinkin' Thing", all three of which are classic honky tonk songs. 

In 1956, Jerry Douglas, renown dobro, resonator, and lap steel player, was born in Warren, Ohio. 

In 1956, Brent Rowan, probably the most popular guitar session player of the last twenty years, was born in Waxahachie, Texas. 

In 1983, Merle Haggard was atop the charts with "You Take Me For Granted". 

In 1994, Tim McGraw went to the top of the charts with "Don't Take The Girl".  It stayed there for two weeks. 

May 27 in Country Music History

In 1921, Redd Stewart was born in Ashland City, Tennessee.  He changed his name to Redd because of his hair and complexion.  He was known for his ability to play piano, fiddle, guitar, and banjo, and for his songwriting ability.  Of the many songs that he was was afforded writer's credit, the biggest were "Tennessee Waltz", "Soldier's Last Letter", and "Slow Poke".  He was a member of the Golden West Cowboys, and also starred in several movies. 

In 1925, Patsy Stoneman was born in Galax, Virginia. Naturally she was a member of the pioneering group, the Stonemans, who charted five times in the sixties, and were honored one year as the group of the year.

In 1931, Kenny Price was born in Florence, Kentucky.  "The Round Mound Of Sound" charted thirty four times, with four of them being Top Ten singles.  His biggest hit was "Walking On New Grass".  He was also a beloved cast member of Hee Haw. 

In 1939, Don Williams was born in Floydada, Texas. This talented performer charted fifty six times, with seventeen of them going to Number One, and another twenty eight of them being Top Tens.  Is there any wonder that he is in the Country Music Hall of Fame?  Even though it wasn't a Top Ten, my favorite of his singles is his version of "Amanda".

In 1950, Red Foley was at the top of the charts for one of the four weeks his "Birmingham Bounce" was occupy the position.  

In 1957, Jim Reeves hit the top spot on the charts with "Four Walls".  "Honky Tonk Song", by Webb Pierce, was also Number One this week according to one survey. 

In 1972, Conway Twitty scored a Number One with "(Lost Her Love) On Our Last Date". 

In 1978, The Statler Brothers went to Number One with "Do You Know You Are My Sunshine".  It was there for two weeks. 

In 1989, Rodney Crowell went to the top spot on the charts with "After All This Time".

In 1995, Ty Herndon was at Number One with "What Mattered Most".  

May 26 in Country Music History

In 1907, Marion Robert Morrison, aka Marion Michael Morrison, aka John Wayne, aka The Duke, was born in Winterset, Iowa. The greatest movie star of them all, he gave many others plenty of work including James Arness and Ken Curtis.

In 1923, James Arness, star of "Gunsmoke", was born. Gunsmoke included many country music stars such as Ken Curtis and Shug Fisher of the Sons of the Pioneers, and Glenn Strange of the Arizona Wranglers. 

In 1933, The Singing Brakeman, Jimmie Rodgers, died in his hotel room in New York City. Jimmie Rodgers is considered by many to be the Father of Country Music.

In 1946, Elizabeth Jane Haaby married Casey Anderson. Liz Anderson went on to become a great songwriter-singer who a major influence on Merle Haggard's career, as well as becoming the mother of Lynn Anderson.

In 1949, Hank Williams, Jr, also know as Rockin' Randall Hank Williams, was born in Shreveport, Louisiana.

In 1951, Lefty Frizzell went to Number One with "I Want To Be With You Always".  It held that spot for eleven weeks.

In 1958, Marty Robbins was at Number One with "Just Married", one of two weeks that he held the spot with this hit.  

In 1971, Keith Gattis was born. Keith was a truly great country voice and a great musician to boot.

In 1973, Jeanne Pruett scored a Number One with the most important song of her career-"Satin Sheets". She held the top spot for three weeks. 

In 1984, Onie Wheeler passed away on the Grand Ole Opry stage while performing in Jimmie Snow's Grand Ole Gospel Show. He is also the father of entertainer Karen Wheeler. If you haven't seen her perform, you have missed one of the truly great entertainers in country music.

In 1984, John Conlee went to Number One with "As Long As I'm Rockin' With You".

In 2001, Loretta Lynn opened a museum at her ranch. I think it is one of the best, if not the best in the nation.

May 25 in Country Music History

In 1893, Pop Stoneman was born in Monorat, Virginia.  His Stoneman Family would become one of the pioneering acts in recorded country music, courtesy of the Bristol Sessions, even though he had been recorded by Ralph Peer prior to these history making moments. 

In 1936, Tom T. Hall was born in a log cabin in Kentucky. Though a songwriter first, he charted fifty four hits as a singer, with seven of them being Number One hits.  His biggest hit was "The Year That Clayton Delaney Died". 

In 1947, Jessi Colter was born in Phoenix, Arizona.  The First Lady of Outlaw is a singer, songwriter, and pianist who has been on the singles charts thirteen times, with her biggest hit being "I'm Not Lisa", a Number One.  She also was one of the artists on the first platinum album in country music, "The Outlaw", that featured Waylon (her husband) Jennings, Willie Nelson, and Tompall Glaser, as well as herself.

In 1949, producer Don Cook was born in San Antonio, Texas.  He has written several top songs, and has produced many hits, since going to Nashville to sign with Acuff-Rose Music as a songwriter.  His first Number One was "Lady Lay Down", by John Conlee.  He co-wrote "Brand New Man" for Brooks and Dunn, and produced thirteen of their Number One hits.  

In 1968, "Honey" by Bobby Goldsboro went to Number One on the charts.  It held the spot for three weeks. 

In 1974, singer-songwriter Melba Montgomery went to Number One with "No Charge".  It was her only Number One hit, but she certainly was a great singer and songwriter. 

In 1985, Charly McClain went to Number One with "Radio Heart". It would be her last of three Number One records, but she charted many more hits.  In fact, she charted almost forty times in her career. 

In 1991, Doug Stone went to Number One with "In A Different Light".

In 1995, Dick Curless, The Baron of Country Music died. He was a beloved singer of trucking songs, who performed with an eyepatch.  He charted twenty two times, with his biggest hit being the legendary "A Tombstone Every Mile".

In 2005, tunesmith Ben Peters passed away in Nashville, Tennessee.  Charley Pride recorded forty or more of his compositions, with several of them being Number One hits.  He is known for "Before The Next Teardrop Falls", "Turn The World Around", "Kiss An Angel Good Mornin'", "It's Gonna Take A Little Bit Longer", "Love Put A Song In My Heart", "More To Me", "Daytime Friends", and "You're So Good When You're Bad", among many, many others. 

May 24 in Country Music History

In 1947, Eddy Arnold was at Number One with "What Is Life Without Love".

In 1947, songwriter Mike Reid was born in Aliquippa, Pennsylvania.  He penned some big hits, and even scored a few himself, with "Walk On Faith" being the biggest, his only Number One. 


In 1955, Roseanne Cash was born in Memphis, Tennessee.  She charted with twenty four songs, and eleven of them being Number One hits.  Her biggest hit was "Never Be You", but my personal favorites are "Seven Year Ache" and "Blue Moon With Heartache". 

In 1975, Jessi Colter went to Number One with "I'm Not Lisa".

In 1980, Dolly Parton went to Number One with "Starting Over Again". 

In 1986, Kenny Rogers took "Tomb of the Unknown Love" to Number One on the charts.

In 2005, Vivian Liberto, the first wife of Johnny Cash, and mother of four daughters, including Roseanne Cash, passed away.  

May 23 in Country Music History

In 1925, Mac Wiseman was born in Crimora, Virginia.  He is one of the best entertainers in country music, and a nice man, who always has a smile on his face. 

In 1944, Ken Irwin, one of the founders of Rounder Records, was born in New York City. 

In 1948, Alvis Alan Owens, a.k.a. Buddy Alan and Buddy Alan Owens, was born to proud parents Buck and Bonnie Owens in Arizona.

In 1951, singer-songwriter Judy Rodman was born in Riverside, California. "Girls Ride Horses Too" was one of her biggest hits.

In 1953, Jim Reeves debuted on the Grand Ole Opry.

In 1958, Shelley West was born in Cleveland, Ohio. She and David Frizzell teamed up in the eighties to form one of the best duos of all time.

In 1981, Roseanne Cash scored a Number One with "Seven Year Ache". 

In 1983, Rex Gosdin, of the Gosdin Brothers, died.

In 1987, The Okanes went to Number One with "Can't Stop My Heart From Loving You".

In 1992, Star Search Alumni Sawyer Brown went to Number One with "Some Girls Do".

May 22 in Country Music History

In 1892, Ralph Peer, the first country music talent scout, and RCA Victor executive was born. This true pioneer of country music was the producer of the Bristol sessions that made household names of Jimmie Rodgers and A.P., Sara, and Maybelle Carter.

In 1976, Conway Twitty went to Number One with "After All The Good Is Gone".

In 1982, Waylon and Willie achieved the top spot on the charts with "Just To Satisfy You".  They kept the spot for two weeks.  

In 1998, Royce Kendall, one half of the duo The Kendalls, died after suffering a stroke while on tour.

May 21 in Country Music History

In 1966, Gentleman Jim Reeves went to the top of the charts with "Distant Drums".

In 1977, Willie Nelson and Waylon Jennings made their way to Number One by way of "Luckenbach, Texas (Back to the Basics of Love)".

In 1983, "Common Man" By John Conlee was the Number One song on the charts.

In 1988, Kathy Mattea went to Number One with "Eighteen Wheels and A Dozen Roses".

In 2006, Billy Walker, along with his wife, Bettie, and bassist Charles Lilly, Jr., and guitarist Daniel Patton, was killed in a late night accident near Fort Deposit, Alabama on Interstate 65.  He and his entourage were heading back to Nashville in a van after performing at an RV park just north of Foley, Alabama.  Billy charted sixty five times with his smooth voice, with his biggest hit being "Charlie's Shoes".  

May 20 in Country Music History

In 1919, The Littlest Cowboy, George Gobel, star of the WLS Barn Dance and world renown comedian and actor, was born.

In 1957, Marty Robbins went to Number One with "A White Sport Coat (And A Pink Carnation)".  It topped the charts for five weeks.  

In 1978, Johnny Duncan went to Number One with "She Can Put Her Shoes Under My Bed (Anytime)".

In 1989, Alabama went to Number One with "If I Had You".

In 1995, Mark Chesnut went to the top of the charts with "Gonna Get A Life".  

May 19 in Country Music History

In 1921, Martha Carson was born in Neon, Kentucky.  She was an American country Gospel singer, who was most popular in the fifties. 

In 1940, Mickey Newbury was born in Houston, Texas.  Though he is mostly remembered for his creation of "American Trilogy" made famous by Elvis Presley, he wrote many big hits.  "Funny, Familiar, Forgotten Feelings", "She Even Woke Me Up To Say Goodbye", and "Makes Me Wonder If I Ever Said Goodbye" are just a few of the great ones that he wrote.  

In 1945, Gene Autry was at  Number One with "At Mail Call Today".  It owned that position for a total of eight weeks. 

In 1951, Eddie Arnold went to Number One with "Kentucky Waltz", where it stayed for three weeks.  

In 1962, the great stylist George Jones went to Number One with the timeless hit "She Thinks I Still Care", holding that position for six weeks. 

In 1973, Tanya Tucker sat atop the charts with "What's Your Mama's Name". 

In 1979, The Bellamy Brothers had a Number One on a "If I Said You Had A Beautiful Body Would You Hold It Against Me". I was at one of their concerts one time, and they did have a lady say yes. How many of you were at that Riverfront Concert in Nashville? If you were there, you will remember.  By the way, this great hit stayed at the top of the charts for three weeks. 

In 1990, Clint Black scored a Number One with "Walkin' Away", and held the position for two weeks.  

May 18 in Country Music History

In 1933, Jimmie Rodgers recorded The Last Blue Yodel (The Women Make A Fool Out Of Me).

In 1936, Leon Ashley was born Leon Walton in Georgia. He is the first artist who wrote, published, recorded and distributed his own songs. He is also famous for his hit "Laura, What's He Got That I Ain't Got".

In 1942, Rodney Dillard, of The Dillards, was born in Salem, Missouri.

In 1945, singer, songwriter, and piano player Little David Wilkins was born in Parsons, Tennessee. He is known for seventeen charted hits as a singer, a major hit, "Georgia Keeps Pulling on My Ring" as a songwriter, and also as an inspiration on the Jerry Chesnut written "T-R-O-U-B-L-E", a major hit for both Elvis Presley and Travis Tritt. 

In 1946, Bob Wills went to Number One with "New Spanish Two Step".  This recording stayed at Number One for a total of sixteen weeks. 

In 1948, Joe Bonsall of the Oak Ridge Boys was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

In 1949, Gary Scruggs, son of Earl Scruggs, was born in Knoxville, Tennessee.  

In 1949, Eddie Arnold went to Number One "One Kiss Too Many".

In 1952, George Strait was born in Poteet, Texas.

In 1957, Rusty and Doug Kershaw made their Grand Ole Opry Debut.

In 1959, Johnny Horton went to Number One with "The Battle Of New Orleans". It owned the top of the charts for ten weeks.  John Rich sometimes does a tribute show to Johnny Horton, and does a fantastic job on this song.

In 1968, Glen Campbell was at the top of the charts for one of three weeks with "I Wanna Live".  

In 1974, Cal Smith went to Number One with the Traditional Classic, "Country Bumpkin".

In 1985, Sawyer Brown went to Number One with "Step That Step". Not very country, but a good tune that would have probably been a top pop song in my younger years.

In 1996, Brooks and Dunn went to Number One with a pop remake of "My Maria".  They kept the position for three weeks. 

May 17 in Country Music History

In 2001, the NEW Country Music Hall Of Fame and Museum opened in downtown Nashville. I personally still miss the old one, and especially the Walk Of Fame where all the stars were.


In 1912, Grant Turner, Grand Ole Opry announcer for 49 years, was born in Abilene, Texas.

In 1925, Red Smiley of Reno and Smiley was born in Marshall, N.C. What a beautiful town!!!

In 1947, Red Foley scored a Number One with "New Jolie Blonde (New Pretty Blonde).  It spent two weeks atop the charts. 

In 1948, Penny DeHaven was born in Winchester, Virginia.  This talented singer placed seventeen hits on the charts.  The last time I saw her she was backing up Porter Wagoner.  She was a really well respected member of the Nashville community.

In 1969, Bill Anderson went to the top of the charts with "My Live (Throw It Away If I Want To)".  It retained the position for two weeks. 

In 1975, B.J. Thomas scored a Number One with "(Hey, Won't You Play) Another Somebody Done Somebody Wrong Song". Larry Butler and Chips Moman won the Grammy for writing this song. 

In 1980, Eddie Rabbit discovered he had "Gone Too Far", and wound up at Number One on the country charts. 

In 1987, Hank Williams, Jr. went to Number One with the old Hoagie Carmichael classic, "Ain't Misbehavin'".

In 2001, the NEW Country Music Hall Of Fame and Museum opened in downtown Nashville. I personally still miss the old one, and especially the Walk Of Fame where many of our favorite stars were enshrined.   

May 16 in Country Music History

In 1925, Wendy Bagwell, great gospel singer and comedian, was born in Chamblee, Georgia.  His recording of "Here Come The Rattlesnakes" sold over one million copies.  It is hilarious.

In 1948, "Anytime" by the late, great Eddie Arnold was at Number One, where it resided for nine weeks.

In 1960, the legendary Hank Locklin took "Please Help Me, I'm Falling" to the Number One spot on the Billboard Charts. This gentleman deserves to be in the Hall of Fame for this and the other many great works in his portfolio. By the way, this song was Number One for 14 weeks. Is that awesome, or what??????

In 1964, Buck Owens took "My Heart Skips A Beat" to Number One on the charts.  It owned that spot for seven weeks.

In 1970, "My Love", by Sonny James, started a three week run at the top of the charts. 

In 1981, T.G. Sheppard went to Number One with "I Loved "Em Every One".

In 1987, the Trio of Dolly Parton, Linda Ronstadt, and EmmyLou Harris went to Number One with "To Know Him Is To Love Him".

In 2013, Doug Dillard, of The Dillards, passed away in Nashville, Tennessee.  He was a major influence on many inside and outside the realm of country music, and is remembered for his part as one of The Darlings on the Andy Griffith Show.  

May 15 in Country Music History

In 1918, Eddy Arnold was born in Henderson, Tennessee.  What more can we say about this Hall of Fame singer.  He owned the charts for close to twenty years, and has had one song spend more time at Number One than many "stars" ever have with ALL of their hits.  

In 1929, Eddy Arnold's father passed away, leaving the family destitute. Later the family would lose the farm and Eddie would spend the remainder of his youth in poverty. After he got into the music business, he became one of the richest, and most frugal, people in the U.S.  He is the highest rated Billboard star of all time.

In 1942, K.T.Oslin was born in Crossett, Arkansas.  She is a singer, songwriter, pianist, and actress who placed a total of eighteen hits on the country charts, five of them being Number One hits.  She was a major force until she started doing things that weren't like her original hits, which really had a lot of meaning to many folks, especially women.

In 1948, Eddy Arnold celebrated his birthday at Number One on the charts with "Bouquet of Roses", which held the top spot for a total of nineteen weeks. 

In 1954, Eddy Arnold celebrated his birthday by going to the top of the charts with "I Really Don't Want To Know".

In 1965, the late and great entertainer Del Reeves went to Number One with "Girl on the Billboard". It retained that position for two weeks.

In 1971, Ray Price added to his collection of classic country Number Ones with "I Won't Mention It Again", where it stayed for three weeks. 

In 1976, Ronnie Milsap went to Number One with "What Goes On When The Sun Goes Down".

In 1982, Ricky Skaggs joined the Grand Ole Opry.

In 1993, John Michael Montgomery went to Number One with "I Love The Way You Love Me". 

In 2003, June Carter Cash died in Nashville, Tennessee.  She was a member of the Carter Sisters who performed with Mother MaeBelle Carter, their real mother.  Not only was she a great singer, as evidenced by her hits with her third husband Johnny Cash, but she was a great comedian, and an actress who received a lot of notice.   Her work, along with the Carter Sisters, as a backup group, was some of the best, and I have often said that if I  could sing with the Carter Sisters as backup, it would probably sound good, due to their musical abilities. 

May 14 in Country Music History

In 1977, Don Williams was at Number One with "Some Broken Hearts Never Mend".

In 1983, B.J. Thomas went to Number One with "Whatever Happened to Old Fashioned Love". I wonder whatever happened to old fashioned country music? I do like B. J. Thomas, though. More for the filler cuts on his albums than for the majority of his hits. "Most Of All", "Brown Eyed Woman", and "Rainy Night In Georgia" are three of my favorites of his cuts. 

In 1986, Mose Rager passed away.  One of the most revered guitarist in country music history, who was in the same league with Merle Travis and Chet Atkins, he invented the thumb-picking style, which he taught to Travis.  

In 1988, Eddie Raven went to the top of the charts with "I'm Gonna Get You".

In 1984, Shenandoah hit the top of the charts with "If Bubba Can Dance (I Can Too)".  

In 2005, the King of Bluegrass, Jimmy Martin, passed away. He was probably one of the most underrated and misunderstood performers of his time.  

May 13 in Country Music History

In 1914, Johnny Wright of Johnny and Jack was born in Mt. Juliet, Tennessee.  He also had hits as a solo artist, and was married to the Queen of Country Music, Kitty Wells.  After the death of his brother-in-law, Jack Anglin, Johnnie had eleven more charted hits with "Hello Vietnam" being a Number One hit. 

In 1916, Jack Anglin of Johnnie and Jack was born in Columbia, Tennessee. He and Johnny Wright were brothers-in-law.  Of Johnnie and Jack's eleven Top Fifteen records they had a Number One, "(Oh Baby Mine)I Get So Lonely", later made even more famous by the Statler Brothers.

In 1954, Ray Kennedy, singer, songwriter, musician, producer, arranger, and recording engineer, was born in Buffalo, New York.  As a singer, he will best be remembered for his Top Ten record, "What A Way To Go".   

In 1960, Gid Tanner of the Skillet Lickers passed away at age 74.

In 1967, Merle Haggard made his first appearance on the Grand Ole Opry.

In 1967, Buck Owens went to Number One with "Sam's Place".  It stayed at the top for three weeks. 

In 1972, Merle Haggard was atop the charts with "Grandma Harp", holding that position for two weeks. 

In 1975, Bob Wills died of pneumonia. Willie Nelson may be playing in Austin, but Bob Wills is still the King......

In 1989, Randy Travis hit Number One with "Is It Still Over?". 

In 1997, Rose Carter of the Chuck Wagon Gang passed away.

In 2000, Kenny Rogers became one of the the oldest single performers, if not the oldest, to have a number one on the charts with "Buy Me A Rose". 

May 12 in Country Music History

In 1901, The Duke of Paducah, Whitey Ford, was born.

In 1921, Joe Maphis was born in Suffolk, Virginia.  The King Of Strings was known for his abilities on almost anything that had strings, but he is remembered for his big double necked Mosrite guitar that now rests in the Country Music Hall of Fame.  All of the Cash and Carter family adored him and his status as a virtuoso on his Mosrite guitar, and actually picked out his grave site, and helped cover his grave.  Quite a tribute, I would say.

In 1937, producer Bob Montgomery was born in Lampasas, Texas.  He did some of his best work as the producer for some of Vern Gosdin's albums.

In 1942, Billy Swan was born in Cape Girardeau, Missouri.  He is known for being multi-talented, playing drums, guitar, bass, and keyboards, and for his work as a singer, songwriter, producer, and backing musician.  He will  be remembered for all the work he did with some of the biggest names in music, including Bill Black, Kris Krisofferson, Randy Meisner, and  Elvis Presley, but the biggest memory will always be his Number One hit, "I Can Help", which he made in two takes, and played the organ which Kris Kristofferson and his then wife, Rita Coolidge, had given him as a wedding gift.  He also will be remembered as the producer of the Tony Joe White classic, "Polk Salad Annie".

In 1951, Hank Williams took "Cold, Cold Heart" to Number One on the charts.  

In 1955, Kix Brooks was born in Shreveport, Louisiana.

In 1965, Eddie Kilgallon of Ricochet was born in New York.

In 1973, Roy Clark scored a Number One with "Come Live With Me".  

In 1979, Conway Twitty went to the top spot on the charts by begging and singing "Don't Take It Away".

In 1984, Julio Iglesias and Willie Nelson went to Number One with "To All The Girls I've Loved Before".  It was atop the charts for two weeks. 

In 1990, Travis Tritt went to Number One on the charts with "Help Me Hold On".

May 11 in Country Music History

In 1955, Mark Herndon, drummer for Alabama during all their hit-making years, was born in Springfield, Massachusetts.  He is no longer a part of the band, since a lawsuit caused by disagreements on his part in the band, and accounting for monies due him, and due the band. 

In 1968, David Houston was atop the charts with "Have A Little Faith".

In 1974, Sonny James went to Number One with "Is It Wrong For Loving You". 

In 1978, Glenn Sherley died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Sherley was an imate in Folsom Prison when Johnny Cash recorded possibly the greatest live album ever produced. He wrote "Greystone Chapel" which Johnny Cash performed on the album, which, is in my estimation, one of the best gospel songs written in the last fifty years.

In 1979, Lester Flatt passed away in Nashville, Tennessee.  He was a bluegrass legend, along with long time partner, Earl Scruggs, and is a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame.  He helped develop youngsters such as Marty Stuart and Keith Whitley.  

In 1985, Reba McEntyre went to the top spot on the charts with "Somebody Should Leave". 

In 1991, George Strait went to Number One with "If I Know Me".  It was Number One for two weeks. 

In 1996, Steve Wariner joined the Grand Ole Opry. 

In 1999, Eddie Arnold announced his retirement. I don't think he did ever really retire, just slowed down.

In 2003, Minnie Snow, widow of Hank Snow, died in Nashville. 

In 2008, Dottie Rambo, acclaimed songwriter and Gospel artist, passed away from injuries received in a wreck that involved her tour bus.  She died near Mount Vernon, Missouri. 

May 10 in Country Music History

In 1909, Mother Maybelle Carter was born in Nicklesville, Virginia.  She, along with AP and Sarah, made up the Carters, and were among the first groups recorded by Ralph Peer for the Bristol Sessions, which made the not just country music pioneers, but country music royalty. 

In 1952, Hank Thompson took "The Wild Side of Life" to the top spot on the charts.  It was at Number One for fifteen weeks.  

In 1969, Merle Haggard took "Hungry Eyes" to the Number One position on the charts.

In 1975, Gary Stewart went to Number One with the classic "She's Actin' Single (I'm Drinkin' Doubles". 

In 1980, EmmyLou Harris went to Number One on the charts with "Beneath Still Waters". 

In 1986, The Judds went to Number One on the charts with "Grandpa (Tell Me 'Bout The Good Old Days". 

In 1999, Shel Silverstein died in Key West, Florida.  He was a very talented songwriter, who wrote songs recorded by Johnny Cash, Bobby Bare, Mel Tillis, Waylon Jennings, and Jerry Reed.  

May 9 in Country Music History

In 1914, Hank Snow was born in Liverpool, Nova Scotia, Canada. One of the greatest imports ever, and my kind of immigrant.  Hank charted eighty five songs, with seven of them making it to Number One, and another thirty six of them being Top Ten records. 

In 1953, Jim Reeves topped the charts with "Mexican Joe". 

In 1970, Dave Dudley was at Number One with "The Pool Shark".

In 1981, Ronnie Milsap was at Number One for asking the musical question: "Am I Losing You?"

In 1983, country music promoter Bob Neal died. He was a legend due to his work with Sun Records, and especially Elvis.

In 1984, Nudie Cohn, tailor to the stars, passed away in North Hollywood, California. If any of you have one of his suits hanging in a size 54 or 56 Extra Tall, and are in a generous mood, I would sure like to have one. 

In 1987, Michael Johnson hit Number One with "The Moon Is Still Over Her Shoulder". This was a tune that was much like the pop hits he had in the seventies. Johnson is one of the greatest classical guitarists in the world.


In 1989, Keith Whitley passed away. In his brief time here he left a musical legacy that we will remember for a long time.  On the charts nineteen times, he had five Number One records, and five more Top Tens.  I wonder if country music would be in such a sad state if he were still here with us.

In 1992, Brooks and Dunn ruled the charts with "Neon Moon".

May 8 in Country Music History

In 1922, Homer Bailes, of the Bailes Brothers, was born in Kanawha County, West Virginia.

In 1928, Benny Martin was born in Sparta, Tennessee. He was a noted fiddler that, if memory serves me correctly, always was in untied dress shoes.

In 1961, Faron Young's "Hello Walls" became the Number One song on the charts.  It stayed there for nine weeks.  

In 1963, singer-songwriter Keith Harling was born in Greenwood, South Carolina. 

In 1968, The Solemn Old Judge, George D. Hay passed away.

In 1971, "How Much More Can She Stand" by Conway Twitty went to Number One.

In 1976, Charley Pride took "My Eyes Can Only See As Far As You'  to the top of the charts.  It was the sixteenth of his twenty nine Number Ones.  

In 1982, "Always On My Mind" by Willie Nelson went to Number One, for the first of two weeks at that position.

In 2008, the singer regarded as the Number One Billboard artist in country music passed away.  One week short of his nintieth birthday, Eddy Arnold charted more than one hundred forty five records in his career, with twenty eight of them being Number Ones, many of which stayed at the top of the charts for many weeks.  He had twelve Top Twos, and had fifty seven Top Tens before he had a Christmas record that only made it to Number Twelve on the charts.  He had NINETY TWO Top Tens in his career.  His biggest hits were "I'll Hold You In My Heart (Til I Can Hold You In My Arms", which stayed at Number One for twenty one weeks, "Bouquet of Roses", Number One for nineteen weeks, "Don't Rob Another Man's Castle", Number One for twelve weeks, "I Wanna Play House With You", Number One for eleven weeks, and "There's Been A Change In Me", also at the top of the charts for eleven weeks.  That is what I call a superstar. 

May 7 in Country Music History

In 1894, Riley Puckett of the Skillet Lickers was born in Alpharetta, Georgia.

In 1915, Kyle Bailes, of the Bailes Brothers, was born in Kanawha County, West Virginia.

In 1931, songwriter Jerry Chesnut was born in Harlan County, Kentucky.  Among the many hits this Songwriter Hall Of Fame member has written are "A Good Year For The Roses", "T-R-O-U-B-L-E", "Another Place, Another Time", "Holding On To Nothing","It's Four In The Morning", "Looking At The World Through A Windshield", and several more Elvis Presley cuts, which in itself makes him very successful. 

In 1949, "Lovesick Blues" by the late and great Hank Williams was amid a SIXTEEN week run at Number One on the charts. It was his first Number One.

In 1977, "Play, Guitar Play" by Conway Twitty went to Number One on the Charts.

In 1983, "Jose Cuervo" by Shelley West went to Number One on the Billboard Charts. 

In 1988, "Cry, Cry, Cry" by Highway 101 was at Number One on the Billboard Charts.

In 1998, singer-songwriter Eddie Rabbit passed away from lung cancer. 

May 6 in Country Music History

In 1903, country music pioneer Cliff Carlisle was born in Taylorsville, Kentucky. 

In 1945, Texas country music singer Jimmie Dale Gilmore was born in Amarillo, Texas.  He is a true country outlaw, who has had a lot of success simply by sticking to his roots, and refusing to give in to the demands of those who control mainstream music in this day and age. 

In 1959, George Jones was enjoying his first Number One Hit, as it was holding that position for the fourth of five weeks.  "White Lighting" was written by J.P. Richardson, also known as The Big Bopper.

In 1960, Jim Reeves was almost at the end of a sixteen week run at the top of the charts with his smash, "He'll Have To Go", written by the legendary Joe Allison.  

In 1978, Dolly Parton was at Number One for the first of two weeks with "It's All Wrong, But It's All Right". 

May 5 in Country Music History

In 1922, Jay Miller was born in Iota, Louisiana.  He was a songwriter, producer and and musician who specialized in Cajun flavored music.  He is probably most famous for "Diggy Liggy Lo". 

In 1938, Roni Stoneman was born in Washington, D.C.  As a member of the pioneering group, the Stonemans, she is also known for her many years as one of the long time members of the Hee Haw cast. 

In 1942, Tammy Wynette was born in Itawamba County, Mississippi.  This Country Music Hall of Fame member placed seventy two records on the charts, with twenty of them being Number One hits, and many of her songs being legendary hits that will always be considered as among the best of ALL hits recorded in country music.  With nineteen additional Top Ten hits, she will always be remembered for hits like "Don't Wanna Play House", "D-I-V-O-R-C-E", "Stand By Your Man", "He Loves Me All The Way", "My Elusive Dreams", and all of her great duets with her one-time husband, George Jones. 

In 1979, John Conlee was at Number One with "Backside Of Thirty". 

In 1984, The Oak Ridge Boys were atop the charts with "I Guess It Never Hurts To Hurt Sometime", my favorite by the Mighty Oaks. 

May 4 in Country Music History

In 1905, Al Dexter was born in Jacksonville, Texas.  He was still active in the recording business when Country Charts were separated, and afterwards charted sixteen hits, with seven of those being Number Ones.  Two of them would be considered Monster hits today, as they were atop the charts for more than ten weeks. 

In 1948, Tim DuBois was born in Southeast City, Missouri.  He has worked his way to the upper echelons of the music business, and has worked as an accountant, professor, songwriter, producer, and label executive.  He was the man behind the business when there was a Arista-Nashville, which sold 80,000,000 records in its first decade or so of existence, thanks to his abilities to spot good artists and pair them with good music.  Alan Jackson, Diamond Rio, Pam Tillis, and Steve Wariner were just some of the great names that he developed at Arista before moving to Universal South to join Tony Brown, another great. 

In 1949, Stella Parton was born in Sevierville, Tennessee, sister of Dolly Parton.  She is a successful singer, songwriter and actress in her own right. 

In 1952, J.L.(Joe) Frank, Country Music Hall Of Fame member and revered music executive, passed away.  He was a great success as a promoter, and as a talent manager. 

In 1959, Randy Travis was born in Marshville, North Carolina.  He has earned sixteen Number One records, and has charted fifty three times.  He is a true traditional and classic country artist, and should be in the Hall of Fame. 

In 1963, posthumously, Hawkshaw Hawkins scored his biggest hit, and was atop the charts for one of four weeks with "Lonesome 7-7203". 

In 1974, Merle Haggard went atop the charts with "Things Aren't Funny Anymore". 

In 1985, Alabama sang "There's No Way", but there was, and it was the song by that name became a Number One hit for them. 

In 1991, Dolly Parton and Ricky Van Shelton took "Rockin' Years" to the top of the charts.  The song was written by Floyd Parton, Dolly's brother. 

May 3 in Country Music History

In 1928, Dave Dudley was born in Spencer, Wisconsin.  He charted forty one times with his biggest hit, "The Pool Shark", being his only Number One. 

In 1952, Eddy Arnold topped the charts with "Easy On The Eyes".

In 1975, Joe Stampley was atop the charts with "Roll On Big Mama".

In 1980, Debbie Boone was ruling the charts with "Are You On The Road To Lovin' Me Again".  

In 1986, Earl Thomas Conley went to the top of the charts with one of his greatest, "Once In A Blue Moon". 

In 1996, Patsy Montana passed away in San Jacinto, California.  She was most famous for being the first female with a million selling single, "I Want To Be A Cowboy's Sweetheart".

May 2 in Country Music History

In 1948, Larry Gatlin was born in Seminole, Texas.  Along with his brothers, he has been a part of forty two charting records, with three of them being Number One hits.  He has also enjoyed success with fifteen more Top Ten records, and has written many, if not all, of them.  He broke into the big time with Dottie West, and has been a major force in country music since that time.

In 1960, Merle Haggard was in San Quentin when incorrigible Caryl Chessman was executed.  "The warden led a prisoner down the hallway to his doom......."

In 1962, 1990's country recording star Ty Herndon was born in Meridian, Mississippi.  He charted seventeen songs with three of them being Number One hits.

In 1970, Marty Robbins went to the top spot on the charts with "My Woman, My Woman, My Wife".  Of his ninety four charted records, it was the fourteenth of sixteen Number Ones.  He added thirty one Top Ten records to those Number Ones, and wrote many of his own hits.  He was also a great guitarist and pianist, and was probably the greatest entertainer in country music history.  Is there any wonder that he was elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame before he died?

In 1981, Conway Twitty was atop the charts with "Rest Your Love On Me", penned by Barry Gibb, lead singer of the BeeGees.

In 1987, T. Graham Brown scored a Number One with "Don't Go To Strangers". 

May 1 in Country Music History

In 1894, Sam McGee of the McGee Brothers was born in Franklin, Tennessee.  They were very popular entertainers, famous for their long sting on the Grand Ole Opry, with Sam usually playing the guitar, though he and his brother, Kirk, could both play anything that had strings.

In 1910, Ott Devine, one time Opry manager, was born in Gadsden, Alabama.

In 1929, Sonny James, one of the most successful of country music artists, was born in Hackleburg, Alabama.  My fellow ROPE member scored  seventy two charted hits, with twenty three of them being bona fide Number Ones.  Another nineteen of his hits were Top Tens.  He is a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame.

In 1965, Jim Reeve's "This Is It" was atop the charts for one of three weeks.

In 1976, "Don't The Girls All Get Prettier At Closing Time" became a Number One for Mickey Gilley.

In 1982, "Mountain Music", by Alabama, became a Number One hit.

In 1993, Tracy Lawrence sat atop the charts for the first of two weeks with "Alibis".  

In 2008, half of the Hee Haw duo, the Hager Twins, passed away in a Nashville, Tennessee parking lot.  Jim Hager was a protege of Buck Owens, and starred with his brother on Hee haw for twenty years. 

April 30 in Country Music History

In 1925, Johnny Horton was born in Los Angeles, California.  In a career ended much too soon by an auto accident, Horton was probably the most talented country singer who hasn't been inducted into the Country Music Hall Of Fame, probably due to the fact that he snubbed the Grand Ole Opry to remain with the Louisiana Hayride.  Of his fourteen charted hits, he had three Number Ones, seven more Top Tens, two that went to eleventh, one that went to nineteenth, and one that went to twenty sixth on the charts.  One of those elevens and the twenty six were both remakes of popular Top Tens that were released after his death.  His band mates included some of country music's best, including Tillman Franks and Merle Kilgore, and he was very much a part of the country music scene, being friends with Johnny Cash, Faron Young, and Webb Pierce.  If you know the story about "The drummer is a rummer, and he can't keep a beat", then you know that he was fascinated by the afterlife, and I was assured by Merle Kilgore that this story is true.  On a parting note, Johnny Horton married Hank Williams' second wife shortly before his death. 

In 1929, Fuzzy Owen, one of the Bakersfield Sound pioneers, was born in Conway, Arkansas.  He was a singer, songwriter, producer, and musician, but is best remembered for the many years he managed Merle Haggard. 

In 1933, Willie Nelson also celebrates his birthday on this day, though there are accounts that say he was born on the twenty ninth.  It really doesn't matter.  The Red Headed Stranger is ALL WORLD to us who love traditional and classic country music.

In 1940, Darrell McCall, outlaw country singer and songwriter, was born in New Jasper, Ohio.  Though he has been associated with Willie Nelson, Johnny Bush, and Hank Williams, Jr., he is known mostly for his honky-tonk style that pervades the Texas Roadhouses and Honky-tonks.  He was a boyhood friend of Johnny Paycheck, and worked in the bands of Faron Young, Ray Price, and the young Williams.  His biggest success is as a songwriter, along with Lamar Morris, on "Eleven Roses", one of the best, if not THE best single of Hank Jr.'s career.

In 1977, Mickey Gilley was at Number One with "She's Pulling Me Back Again".

In 1983, Reba McEntire was atop the charts with "You're The First Time I've Thought About Leaving".

In 1988, Rodney Crowell and Roseanne Cash were at Number One with their duet of "It's Such A Small World".

In 1994, Faith Hill scored a Number One with "Piece of My Heart".  

April 29 in Country Music History

In 1930, singer-songwriter Eddie Noack was born in Houston, Texas.  He had one charted hit, but he had a good career as a songwriter, having hits recorded by Hank Snow and George Jones. 

In 1933, WILLIE NELSON was born on either this day or the next, in Abbott, Texas.  He is a great singer, songwriter, producer, and actor, and has given a good account for himself in this life.  He has been involved as a singer in at least one hundred nineteen songs, with twenty three of them being Number Ones.  He has also written many of the country music standards we all love today.  Personally, I believe that he and Merle Haggard are the most talented country music performers of all time, with both being talented as singers, songwriters, guitarists, and entertainers.  Willie does get the nod as an actor, but Merle, also does some of the greatest impressions in the world, so they are about equal in my eyes. 

In 1943, singer Duane Allen, of the vaunted Oak Ridge Boys, was born in Taylortown, Texas.  The Oaks are certainly one of the top three groups of all time in country music. 

In 1954, Karen Brooks, singer, was born in Dallas, Texas.  She had several charted hits in the eighties, and will be remembered for her duet with T.G. Shepard, "Faking Love", a Number One. 

In 1967, Sonny James began a two week run at the top of the charts with "Need You". 

In 1995, Brooks and Dunn scored a Number One with "Little Miss Honky Tonk". 

April 28 in Country Music History

In 1955, Webb Pierce still had the top spot on the charts locked up with "In The Jailhouse Now".   It had the top spot locked up for twenty one weeks. 

In 1973, Charlie Rich began two weeks at the top of the charts with "Behind Closed Doors".

In 1979, Charley Pride was atop the charts with "Where Do I Put Her Memory".

In 1984, George Strait was rewarded with a Number One single for his rendition of "Right Or Wrong".  

In 1991, Ken Curtis, known to most of the world as Festus on "Gunsmoke", passed away in Fresno, California.  He was a very talented singer who performed with the Tommy Dorsey Band after the defection of Frank Sinatra and also with the Sons of the Pioneers.  His voice as remembered when he played Festus sounds nothing like his true voice, as he was a wonderful singer. 

In 2013, all country music fans are mourning the loss of George Jones, who passed away April 26 at the age of eighty one.  

April 27 in Country Music History

In 1929, Tommy Hill, brother of Goldie Hill, was born near Coy City, Texas.  He was most famous as a songwriter with his two biggest hits being "Slowly" and "Teddy Bear". 

In 1931, Maxine Brown, of the hit making Browns, including her sister Bonnie and superstar brother Jim Ed, was born.  She was a contributor as a singer to over twenty major hits, including "The Three Bells", which held the Number One position for ten weeks. 

In 1944, Herb Pedersen, singer, songwriter, guitarist, and banjo player, was born in Berkeley, California.  Pedersen is often seen with old Desert Rose Band mate, Chris Hillman and with EmmyLou Harris.  He has worked with many of the biggest names in country music.

In 1968, Merle Haggard began a two week run at the top of the charts with "The Legend Of Bonnie And Clyde".

In 1974, Hank Snow sat atop the charts with one of my favorites, "Hello Love".

In 1985, The Judds were on top of the charts with "Girls Night Out".  

In 2002, Hillous Butrum passed away in Nashville, two weeks after the passing of his wife.  He was known for his stint on the Opry, starting at age sixteen, as a guitarist, and also for his work with Hank Williams, among many others.  He also produced videos and records.  

April 26 in Country Music History

In 1975, Billie Jo Spears was atop the charts with "Blanket On The Ground", produced by Larry Butler.

In 1980, Dottie West gave us "A Lesson In Leavin'", and earned a Number One record for her efforts.

In 1986, Anne Murray was at Number One on the charts with "Now and Forever (You and Me)".  

In 1990, Wesley Rose, music executive passed away. 

In 2013, George Jones, known as the Possum, passed away after a week in the hospital.  As best as I can tally, he charted one hundred sixty six records in his storied career, with thirteen of them being Number Ones, another sixty four being Top Tens, and all but eighteen of the rest being Top Forty.  Many of those records are considered to be some of the most legendary recordings of our time.

Though "He Stopped Loving Her Today" is probably his career hit, my favorite is "The Cold Hard Truth", and I also loved "I Can Live Forever", which I think is a great inspirational song. 

April 25 in Country Music History

In 1928, the great fiddler, Vassar Clements, was born in Kinard, South Carolina.  He played with many greats of his day, including Jim and Jesse and the Virginia Boys, the Earl Scruggs Revue, Faron Young, John Hartford, the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, and many others.

In 1940, O. B. McClinton  was born in Senatobia, Mississippi.  He was a black singer and guitarist who was a contemporary of Charley Pride, and who sounded just as country as Charley.  He placed about fifteen hits on the country charts, though he certainly was no chart busting artist.  All those who ever saw him perform knew that he was one of the best entertainers they ever saw, of any color. 

In 1945, Stu Cook, heralded bassist for Credence Clearwater Revival and Southern Pacific, was born in Oakland, California. 

In 1954, singer/songwriter Rob Crosby was born in Sumter, South Carolina.  Although he has charted as a singer, he is most known for his work as a songwriter. 

In 1981, Mickey Gilley topped the charts with "A Headache Tomorrow (Or A Heartache Tonight)".

In 1987, Waylon Jennings was credited with another Number One for "Rose In Paradise".

April 24 in Country Music History

In 1943, Richard Sterban, bass singer for the Oak Ridge Boys, was born in Camden, New Jersey. The Oaks charted forty seven country hits with Richard as bass singer, including seventeen Number Ones.  They also had seventeen more Top Ten records.  Richard himself, was also a backup singer with JD Sumner and the Stamps, when they were touring with Elvis.  Quite a career.

In 1976, EmmyLou Harris went to Number One with her great rendition of "Together Again".

In 1982, Ricky Skaggs was "Crying My Heart Out Over You", even as he went to Number One on the charts.

In 1993, Sammy Kershaw was atop the charts with "She Don't Know She's Beautiful". 

In 2006, one of the most influential women in country music passed away.  Bonnie Owens, was first married to Buck Owens, then Merle Haggard, and then once again to a relatively unknown.  Though she was a noted solo artists on her own, it is her work with Haggard for which she will ever be remembered.  One night in Mobile, Alabama, she told me that she would give the world for her best friend, the Hag, but they had messed up that friendship for a little while with marriage.  When I last spoke to her, she had just put the finishing touches on her final album, and she was happy with her career, and her life.  We miss her, and I am sure the Hag does. 

April 23 in Country Music History

In 1938, tailor Manuel was born in Coalcoman, Michoacan, Mexico.  He originally worked for the original owner of Nudie designing many of the rhinestone studded suits of Hollywood and the country and western stars of days past.  He married Nudie's daughter in 1960, and, with Porter Wagoner's help, he became tailor to many of the country stars we all remember in their dazzling outfits.

In 1961, "Don't Worry" by the late, great Marty Robbins went to the Number One spot.

In 1968, songwriter Aaron Barker was born. Among the hits for which he has received writer's credits are "Baby Blue", "Easy Come, Easy Go", "I Can Still Make Cheyenne", "I'd Like To Have That One Back", and "Love Without End, Amen", .

In 1977, Loretta Lynn took "She's Got You" to the Number One spot.

In 1983, the Oak Ridge Boys went to Number One with "American Made". 

In 1988, K.T.Oslin went to Number One with "I'll Always Come Back".

April 22 in Country Music History

In 1936, Glen Campbell was born in Delight, Arkansas.  Not only one of the best guitar players on the planet, without being able to read music, but also one who visited the country charts an astounding seventy five times.  Twenty six times he had Top Tens, with five of them being Number One records. 

In 1945, Cleve Francis, one of my favorite cardiologists, and singers, was born in Jennings, Louisiana. 

In 1950, Hank Williams was at Number One with "Long Gone Lonesome Blues".  This hit owned the top spot for eight weeks. 

In 1968, legendary RCA producer Stephen H. Sholes passed away in Nashville, Tennessee.

In 1972, Jerry Lee Lewis began a three week run at the top of the charts with "Chantilly Lace", an old Big Bopper tune.   

In 1976, "Drinkin' My Baby" by Eddie Rabbit was at Number One. This was a true Honky-tonk song that propelled Rabbit's career into outer space.

In 1978, "Every Time Two Fools Collide" by Kenny Rogers and Dottie West went to Number One.  It stayed there for two weeks. 

In 1989, Shenandoah went to the top of the charts with "The Church On Cumberland Road".  It held the position for two weeks. 

In 1989, Clint Black debuted at the Opry. Though Clint seems to have gotten away from the great music that took him to stardom, he is still one of the most underrated talents in the world. If you get the chance to see him unplugged, he is awesome, and is a great entertainer.

In 1995, John Michael Montgomery was atop the charts for one of three weeks with "I Can Love You Like That".  

In 2003, Felice Bryant of Boudleaux and Bryant passed away in Gatlinburg, Tennessee.  She and Boudleaux were responsible for many Everly Brothers hits, as well as many others. 

April 21 in Country Music History

In 1924, the man we all knew as Ira Louvin, of the Louvin Brothers, was born in Section, Alabama.  There are some very good duos in country music, and have been many more, but it is hard to imagine any of them having more talent than Ira and Charlie, the Louvin Brothers, born Loudermilks.  The Louvins put out twelve great hits in their years as Brothers, and then they split, and almost instantly Ira was killed in a bad wreck. 

In 1928, Hillous Butrum was born in Lafayette, Tennessee.  He was a singer, songwriter, guitarist, bassist, record producer, and video producer who is best known for his work with The Drifting Cowboy Band of Hank Williams, Hank Snow's Rainbow Ranch Boys, and for many recording sessions with Marty Robbins.  He was also a founding member of ROPE, of which I am currently, and have been a member since 1997. 

In 1931, singer/songwriter Carl Belew was born in Salina, Oklahoma.  Though he charted eleven hits, he is more famous for his writing credits on songs such as "Am I That Easy To Forget", "What's He Doing In My World", and "Don't Squeeze My Sharmon", among many others. 

In 1948, singer/songwriter Paul Davis was born in Meridian, Mississippi.  Though he will forever be remembered for his work as a pop artist, he also wrote many country hits, and also performed on a few that were successful on the charts. 

In 1973, Donna Fargo held the top spot on the charts with "Superman".

In 1979, Kenny Rogers and Dottie West held the top position on the charts with their version of "All I Ever Need Is You".

In 1984, Johnny Lee, with Lane Brody, had a firm grasp on Number One with "The Yellow Rose", the theme from a great soap on TV starring  Edward Albert, Ken Curtis, David Soul, Cybill Shepherd, Jane Russell,Noah Beery, Jr., Chuck Connors, and many other fine actors and actresses.  This was my favorite TV show for the entire time it was on. 

In 1990, "Love On Arrival" began three weeks at Number One for Dan Seals. 

In 2000, Neal Matthews, Jr, of the Jordanaires, passed away.  The Jordanaires backed just about everybody who was somebody in country music during their heyday, including Elvis Presley. 

April 20 in Country Music History

In 1922, the man affectionately known as Hylo Brown was born in River, Kentucky.  He was a singer, songwriter, guitarist, bassist, who was known for his vocal range, and his love for country music and bluegrass. 

In 1939, Johnny Tillotson, though he charted twenty six hits on the pop charts, he also charted six on the country charts, and has become one of the favorites of people who like the sixties and seventies type of crossover music.  His biggest hits as a country hit maker were "It Keeps Right On A-Hurtin'", and "Send Me The Pillow You Dream On".  Both of them were big hits on the pop charts, too. 

In 1944, Doyle Lawson, of Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver, was born in Sullivan County, Tennessee.  He is known for his ability on the mandolin, vocals, his successes as a producer, and as the leader of Quicksilver, one of the most popular bluegrass acts in the nation today. 

In 1968, Loretta Lynn went to the top of the charts with "Fist City".  

In 1969, Wade Hayes was born in Bethel Acres, Oklahoma.  Though he has only charted fourteen times, five of them were Top Ten records, and another was a Number One, "Old Enough To Know Better".  He is a talented guitarist and vocalist who got caught in the mad rush in the late sixties by the major labels to promote poor pop acts instead of talented country performers.  Here at the Ranch House, he is one of our favorite performers. 

In 1985, the Bellamy Brothers took "I Need More Of You" to the Number One spot on the charts.  

April 19 in Country Music History

In 1924, WLS aired the National Barn Dance for the first time.  At that time the station was owned by Sears, and the announcers included George D. Hay, who became a legend at The Grand Ole Opry on WSM. 

In 1939, Bill Rice was born in Datto, Arkansas.  Although he charted six songs on the country charts, he became famous as a songwriter, and is connected with many major country hits, including "Here Comes The Hurt Again", "Someone To Give My Love To", "Lonely Too Long", "I'll Think Of Something", "I'm Not That Lonely Yet", "Would You Take Another Chance On Me", "The Easy Part's Over", "The Day The World Stood Still", "Ain't She Something Else", and "Wonder Could I Live There Anymore".  He is often associated with his songwriting partner Jerry Foster, as most times Foster would write the lyrics while Rice would do the music and arrangement.

In 1940, songwriter Bobby Russell was born in Nashville, Tennessee.  Though he was a singer, too, he is most famous for his songwriting credits, having written "The Night The Lights Went Out In Georgia", for his then wife, Vickie Lawrence, "Little Green Apples", and "Honey".   

In 1963, banjo phenom Wendy Holcombe, who was on the Ernest Tubb Midnight Jamboree at age twelve, and then the Grand Ole Opry a week later, was born in Alabaster, Alabama. 

In 1969, "Galveston", by Glen Campbell, began a three week run at the top of the charts. 

In 1980, Crystal Gayle was atop the charts with "It's Like We Never Said Goodbye".

In 1986, Ricky Skaggs took "Cajun Moon" to the top of the charts.

April 18 in Country Music History

In 1936, Milton Brown passed away from injuries sustained in a car wreck.  He is credited as being one of the co-founders of Western Swing music. 

In 1949, Kyle Lehning, producer, was born in Cairo, Illinois.  He has worked with many of the top acts in country music, including George Jones, but, as the producer of record on the majority of Randy Travis' albums, he has certainly proved himself to be one of the best. 

In 1970, Charley Pride began the first of two weeks at Number one with the Dave Kirby penned "Is Anybody Going To San Antone?"

In 1981, Alabama went to the top of the charts with "Old Flame", one of their best singles of all time. 

In 1987, The Bellamy Brothers were atop the charts with "Kids Of The Baby Boom". 

In 1992, Pensacola, Florida native Aaron Tippin began a three week run at the top of the charts with "There Ain't Nothin' Wrong With The Radio". 

April 17 in Country Music History

In 1976, Eddie Rabbit was at Number One with "Drinkin' My Baby (Off My Mind). 

In 1982, Conway Twitty was atop the charts with "The Clown". 

In 1992, Western Swing Legend Hank Penny passed away.  Though his career began in the Southeast, his name became synonymous with Great Western Swing, as he always surrounded himself with the best musicians he could find.  His greatest hit was "Won't You Ride In My Little Red Wagon", and he also founded the Palomino Club in North Hollywood, California, which was given the distinction as being the most important Country and Western venue on the West Coast.  That club was featured in a number of movies, including "Every Which Way But Loose" and "Any Which Way You Can". 

In 2004, a Takinthecountryback favorite, Dave Kirby passed away from the effects of cancer.  Being the nephew of Big Bill Lister, who at one time fronted Hank Williams Drifting Cowboy Band, he was a guitarist who played for some of the greatest touring acts, including Porter Wagoner and Waylon Jennings, and worked as a session guitarists for Dolly Parton, Merle Haggard, Janie Fricke, Ringo Star, Emmylou Harris, Don Williams, Kenny Rogers, Willie Nelson, Crystal Gayle, Wynn Stewart, Ray Price, Moe Bandy, Ronnie Milsap, Connie Smith and Kenny Price.  He also contributed greatly to country music as a writer, having penned "Is Anybody Going To San Antone?", "What Have You Got Planned Tonight, Diana?", "There Ain't No Good Chain Gang", and "Memories To Burn", among many others.  At his death, he was married to Leona Williams, a singer, songwriter, and star herself.  Dave was a very nice, humble man, who didn't toot his own horn, but, having met him, and seen him in concert many times, I believe there should be a special place in the Country Music Hall of Fame for the performers and writers who really are the backbone of country music. 

In 2007, heralded songwriter Glen Sutton passed away.  He wrote or co-wrote many of Tammy Wynette's biggest songs including "Your Good Girl's Gonna Go Bad", "Take Me To Your World", "I Don't Wanna Play House", "The Ways To Love A Man", and "Kids Say The Darndest Things".  He also received a Grammy for his "Almost Persuaded".  Also, as a producer, he produced many of Lynn Anderson's greatest hits, including "(I Never Promised You A) Rose Garden.  He did not write "Rose Garden", but wrote several of her Number One hits.  As I mentioned in the previous item, he deserves to be in a special niche of the Country Music Hall of Fame, containing songwriters, musicians, and others who have greatly added to the rich history of traditional and classic country music. 

April 16 in Country Music History

 In 1961, "Don't Worry", by Marty Robbins, was amid a ten week run at the top of the charts. 

In 1977, Johnny Duncan was atop the charts with "It Couldn't Have Been Any Better". 

In 1983, Alabama was Number One again with "Dixieland Delight". 

In 1988, Eddie Rabbitt was again on top of the charts with "I Wanna Dance With You". 

In 1994, Tracy Lawrence began a two week run at the top of the charts with "If The Good Die Young". 

April 15 in Country Music History

In 1900, Joe Frank, music executive, was born in Limestone County, Alabama.  He was the first major country music promoter and manager, and for his abilities, he was posthumously inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame. 

In 1933, Roy Clark was born in Meherrin, Virginia.  Though this actor, singer, songwriter, guitarist, and banjo player is known mostly for his role as co-host of Hee Haw, he has charted fifty two records, including the Number One, "Come Live With Me".  Having been boosted by employment with Jimmy Dean in the fifties, he is one of the best entertainers in the business, one of the best instrumentalists, and also a good personality with a lot of comedic talent. 

In 1937, Bob Luman, a singer, songwriter, and guitarist, was born in Nacogdoches, Texas.  He charted thirty nine times, with the biggest hits being "Lonely Women Make Good Lovers", "When You Say Love", "Neither One Of Us", "Still Loving You", and "Let's Think About Living".

In 1967, Eddy Arnold was again atop the charts with "Lonely Again", and stayed there for two weeks.

In 1995, Reba McEntire was at Number One with "The Heart Is A Lonely Hunter".   

In 1998, Rose Maddox, of Maddox Brothers and Sister Rose, passed away in Ashland, Oregon.  Not only was she successful as a member of America's Most Colorful Hillbilly Band, in suits tailored by Nudie Cohn, but she remained a successful solo act who also scored big in duets with Buck Owens.  In fact, she charted fourteen records outside the operations of her family's band. 

April 14 in Country Music History

In 1932, Loretta Lynn was born in Butcher Holler, Kentucky, just outside the limits of Van Lear.  She is probably the most well known, as well at the most talented, female singer-songwriter of our times, with her only competition possibly being Dolly Parton.  Loretta charted almost eighty songs in her career, with many of them being autobiographical tunes about herself, including the one that made her a superstar, "Coal Miner's Daughter".  She has had sixteen Number Ones, and has had another thirty five Top Tens, so she has earned that title, superstar, and is very worthy of every accolade that she has ever received. 

In 1945, "Smoke On The Water", by Bob Wills, was at Number One for one of its two weeks at the top position.

In 1958, Don Gibson was enjoying the Number One spot on the charts with "Oh Lonesome Me".  It occupied the top spot for some eight weeks, and helped create the elite status of this singer, songwriter, and musician.

In 1973, Charley Pride was atop the charts with "A Shoulder To Cry On".  

In 1977, Vito Pellettieri passed away.  He was the stage manager of the Grand Ole Opry for many years, and is credited with giving the live radio show much of the stability and the character for which it is still famous. 

In 1979, Barbara Mandrell was at the top spot on the charts with "(If Loving You Is Wrong) I Don't Want To Be Right".

In 1984, The Kendalls were atop the charts with "Thank God For The Radio".  One of my favorite songs by one of my favorite duos.

In 1990, Lorrie Morgan was enjoying the week at the top of the charts with "Five Minutes". 

In 1995, the very popular singer, songwriter, and actor, Burl Ives, died from a bout with cancer.  He charted nine times on the country charts, with "A Little Bitty Tear" being his biggest hit.  His memory is rekindled each year with Christmas season and "Rudolph The Rednosed Reindeer". 

April 13 in Country Music History

In 1952, Sam Bush, legendary bluegrass musician, was born in Bowling Green, Kentucky. 

In 1959, George Jones began a five week stint at the top of the charts with "White Lightning".

In 1963, Bill Anderson was enjoying one of seven weeks at the top of the charts with "Still".

In 1968, Jack Greene was atop the charts with "You Are My Treasure".  

In 1981, Guy Willis, member of the Willis Brother's trio also known as the Oklahoma Wranglers, who were star's of the Grand Ole Opry along with brothers Skeeter and Vic, passed away.  Guy was the emcee and main voice. They have been seen in many Columbia motion pictures and were the first group to back up Hank Williams. They are best known for the hit song "Give Me Forty Acres and I'll Turn This Rig Around." 

In 1985, Earl Thomas Conley was at Number One with "Honor Bound".

In 1986, Johnny Dollar, singer, songwriter, and guitarist, passed away.  He charted several hits.  

In 1991, Alabama was atop of the charts with "Down Home".  They would hold this position for three weeks. 

In 1996, Lonestar started a three week run at the top of the charts with "No News".  At the time, I thought it was not country enough, now I wish there was at least some good music on the country music channels, if not good COUNTRY music. 

April 12 in Country Music History

In 1925, Ned Miller was born in Raines, Utah.  He was a singer, songwriter, and guitarist who had to Top Tens, "From A Jack To A King" and "Do What You Do Do Well". 

In 1936, singer-songwriter Judy Lynn was born in Boise, Idaho.  Her biggest hit was the Top Ten "Footsteps Of A Fool", and she retired in 1980 to further her religious work. 

In 1964, singer/songwriter Deryl Dodd was born in Comanche, Texas.  Beset by illnesses, and things beyond his control, his biggest hit was probably his version of "That's How I Got To Memphis".  I think it is the best of ALL versions, and is definitely on my playlist.

In 1969, Loretta Lynn topped the charts with "Woman Of The World (Leave My World Alone".

In 1975, Merle Haggard went to the top of the charts with a song about Dolly Parton, "Always Wanting You".  It stayed at Number One for two weeks.

In 1980, Charley Pride was atop the charts with his version of the "Honky Tonk Blues".

In 1986, Alabama was again at the top of the charts with "She And I".

In 1997, Clay Walker went to the top of the charts with "Rumor Has It".  It stayed there two weeks.  

In 1999, country music lost a real friend in the singer we all came to know as Boxcar Willie.  He will forever be remembered as one who loved Hank Williams songs, and train songs. 

April 11 in Country Music History

In 1953, "Your Cheatin' Heart", recorded by Hank Williams not long before his death, was at Number One on the charts.  In all, it spent six weeks at this position.  

In 1957, singer-songwriter Jim Lauderdale was born in Troutman, North Carolina.  Not only being talented, he is one of the nicest people one will ever meet.  My favorite of his songs is "King Of Broken Hearts", performed by George Strait in "Pure Country", and written about George Jones.

In 1977, songwriter Eddie Miller passed away.  He was most famous for his work on "Release Me" and "There She Goes".

In 1981, David Frizzell and Shelly West were enjoying the view from the top of the charts with "You're The Reason God Made Oklahoma".

In 1987, ""You've Got" The Touch", was atop the charts for Alabama.  Do not ask me why there are two sets of quotation marks, in the title.  But there are.

In 1992, Wynonna was atop the charts with "She Is His Only Need".  It is my favorite Wynonna song.  

In 2005, bass playing legend Lightnin' Chance passed away.  For more on him check this out: 

http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=10785978

In 2005, Tip Tippin, father of Aaron Tippin, and manager of one of his son's stores, was killed in a collision involving a logging truck.  He was at fault.

In 2005, legendary steel guitarist Jerry Byrd passed away in Honolulu, Hawaii at the ripe old age of eighty five. 

April 10 in Country Music History

In 1898, Fiddlin' Arthur Smith, a major influence on roots, old time, and bluegrass music, was born in Bold Springs, Tennessee. 

In 1921, singer, songwriter, and actor Sheb Wooley was born in Erick, Oklahoma. 

In 1939, steel guitarist Weldon Myrick was born in Jayton, Texas. 

In 1971, Sonny James went to the top of the charts with "Empty Arms", which stayed there for four weeks. 

In 1976, Tammy Wynette topped the charts with "'Til I Can Make It On My Own". 

In 1982, Merle Haggard added to his collection of Number One hits with "Big City". 

In 1993, Reba McEntire and Vince Gill began a two week stint at the top of the charts with "The Heart Won't Lie".