Prior to 1920 in country music
Encyclopedia
1900
- April 23 — The word hillbillie is printed for the first time in the New York Journal.
1868
- March 23 – Fiddlin' John CarsonFiddlin' John CarsonFiddlin' John Carson was an American old time fiddler and an early-recorded country musician.-Early life:...
, one of radio's first country music stars, recorded "The Little Old Log Cabin in the LaneThe Little Old Log Cabin In The Lane"The Little Old Log Cabin In The Lane" is a popular song written by Will S. Hays in 1871 for the minstrel trade. Written in dialect, the song tells of an elderly man, presumably a slave or former slave, passing his latter years in a broken-down old log cabin...
." (d. 19491949 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1949.- Events :*December 10 — Billboard begins a "Country & Western Records Most Played by Folk Disk Jockeys" chart - the first chart ever to track a song's popularity by radio airplay. The first No. 1 song on the new...
)
1870
- October 7 – Uncle Dave MaconUncle Dave MaconUncle Dave Macon , born David Harrison Macon—also known as "The Dixie Dewdrop"—was an American banjo player, singer, songwriter, and comedian...
, "The Dixie Dewdrop" and country music pioneer who combined banjo playing, singing and comic talents to be one of the Grand Ole OpryGrand Ole OpryThe Grand Ole Opry is a weekly country music stage concert in Nashville, Tennessee, that has presented the biggest stars of that genre since 1925. It is also among the longest-running broadcasts in history since its beginnings as a one-hour radio "barn dance" on WSM-AM...
's first stars (d. 19521952 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1952.- Events :* July 14 — The Eddy Arnold Show, a brief summer replacement series, debuts on CBS-TV.* August 23 — Kitty Wells becomes the first female solo artist to score a No...
)
1883
- April 6 – Vernon DalhartVernon DalhartVernon Dalhart , born Marion Try Slaughter, was a popular American singer and songwriter of the early decades of the 20th century. He is a major influence in the field of country music.-Early life:...
, early 1900s singer whose "The Prisoner's Song" became country music's first million-selling single in 1925. (d. 19481948 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1948.-Events:* April 3 — Radio station KWKH of Shreveport, Louisiana airs the Louisiana Hayride for the first time....
)
1885
- June 6 - Gid TannerGid TannerJames Gideon Tanner was an American old time fiddler and one of the earliest stars of what would come to be known as country music. His band, the Skillet Lickers, was one of the most innovative and influential string bands of the 1920s and 1930s...
, old-time fiddler and leader of the Skillet LickersSkillet LickersThe Skillet Lickers were an old-time band from Georgia, USA.When Gid Tanner teamed up with blind guitarist Riley Puckett and signed to Columbia in 1924, they created the label's earliest so-called "hillbilly" recording. Gid Tanner formed The Skillet Lickers in 1926. The first line-up was Gid...
, which became one of the first major country music bands (d. 19601960 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1960.-Events:* March 29 — Tootsie's Orchid Lounge, destined to become one of the most prominent of the honky tonk bars in Nashville, Tennessee, opens....
).
1887
- November 20 – A.C. "Eck" RobertsonEck RobertsonAlexander "Eck" Robertson was an American fiddle player, mostly known for commercially recording the first country music songs in 1922 with Henry Gilliland.-Early life:...
, fiddle player whose "Sally Gooden" became the first recording in the country music genre. (d. 19751975 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1975.-Events:*March 13 — The rocky marriage of George Jones and Tammy Wynette ends in divorce....
)
1889
- October 19 - Arthur E. Satherley, pioneering music executive (d. 19861986 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1986.-Events:* January 18 — "American Country Countdown" with Bob Kingsley expands from three to four hours. Several new features — including a chronological playback of songs reaching No...
).
1891
- August 25 - Tom DarbyDarby and TarltonDarby and Tarlton was an early country music duo, who achieved some level of success in the late 1920s. The duo consisted of Tom Darby and Jimmie Tarlton, .-Biography:Tarlton grew up on a farm in Chesterfield County, South Carolina...
, singer, guitar player and partner of Jimmie Tarlton (as Darby and Tarlton). (d. 19711971 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1971.-No dates:*Seeking younger, more urban viewers, CBS cancels nearly all of its rural-themed programming...
) - December 15 - A. P. CarterA. P. CarterAlvin Pleasant Delaney Carter , best known as A.P. Carter, was an American musician and founding member of The Carter Family, one of the most notable acts in the history of country music.-Life:...
, member of the legendary and original "Carter FamilyCarter FamilyThe Carter Family was a traditional American folk music group that recorded between 1927 and 1956. Their music had a profound impact on bluegrass, country, Southern Gospel, pop and rock musicians as well as on the U.S. folk revival of the 1960s. They were the first vocal group to become country...
". (d. 19601960 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1960.-Events:* March 29 — Tootsie's Orchid Lounge, destined to become one of the most prominent of the honky tonk bars in Nashville, Tennessee, opens....
).
1892
- March 22 - Charlie PooleCharlie PooleCharlie Poole was an American old time banjo player and country musician and the leader of the North Carolina Ramblers, an American old-time string band that recorded many popular songs between 1925 to 1930.-Biography:...
, singer, banjo player and leader of the "North Carolina Ramblers". (d. 19311931 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1931.-Top hits of the year:* "When Your Hair Has Turned to Silver" - Frank Luther and Carson Robison - Births :...
). - April 6 - Henry WhitterHenry WhitterHenry Whitter was an early country musician.-Biography:...
, singer and one of the first recorded country musicians. (d. 19411941 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1941.- Events :* January 1 — Radio programmers begin a 10-month ban on the ASCAP catalog when they fail to reach an agreement...
) - May 8 - Jimmie TarltonDarby and TarltonDarby and Tarlton was an early country music duo, who achieved some level of success in the late 1920s. The duo consisted of Tom Darby and Jimmie Tarlton, .-Biography:Tarlton grew up on a farm in Chesterfield County, South Carolina...
, singer, steel guitar player and partner of Tom Darby (as Darby and Tarlton). (d. 19791979 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1979.-Events:* March 3 — The Public Broadcasting Service would telecast an entire Saturday night live from the Grand Ole Opry for the very first time - the show would last until 12:30 am with a half hour break between...
). - May 22 - Ralph PeerRalph PeerRalph Sylvester Peer was an American talent scout, recording engineer and record producer in the field of music in the 1920s and 1930s...
, talent scout and pioneering recording executive and producer (d. 19601960 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1960.-Events:* March 29 — Tootsie's Orchid Lounge, destined to become one of the most prominent of the honky tonk bars in Nashville, Tennessee, opens....
).
1893
- May 25 - Ernest "Pop" StonemanErnest StonemanErnest Van "Pop" Stoneman ranked among the prominent recording artists of country music's first commercial decade.-Biography:...
, singer, multi-instrumentalist and country musician. (d. 19681968 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1968.-Events:* January 13 — Johnny Cash records his legendary concert at Folsom State Prison...
).
1894
- May 7 - Riley PuckettRiley PuckettGeorge Riley Puckett was an American country music pioneer mostly known for being a member of Gid Tanner and the Skillet Lickers.-Biography:...
, singer, guitarist and member of the "Skillet LickersSkillet LickersThe Skillet Lickers were an old-time band from Georgia, USA.When Gid Tanner teamed up with blind guitarist Riley Puckett and signed to Columbia in 1924, they created the label's earliest so-called "hillbilly" recording. Gid Tanner formed The Skillet Lickers in 1926. The first line-up was Gid...
. (d. 19461946 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1946.-Number one hits:* January 5 - "You Will Have To Pay" - Tex Ritter...
).
1895
- January 5 - Elizabeth CottenElizabeth CottenElizabeth "Libba" Cotten was an American blues and folk musician, singer, and songwriter.A self-taught left-handed guitarist, Cotten developed her own original style. Her approach involved using a right-handed guitar , not re-strung for left-handed playing, essentially, holding a right-handed...
, left-handed guitarist and folk musician. (d. 19871987 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1987.-Events:* June 13 — Randy Travis' "Forever and Ever, Amen" spends three weeks at No. 1 of the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart...
). - May 10 - Carl T. SpragueCarl T. SpragueCarl T. "Doc" Sprague was an American country musician. He was often dubbed "The Original Singing Cowboy". Sprague was one of the first country musicians on record, recording in the early 1920s.-Biography:...
, "The Original Singing Cowboy". (d. 19791979 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1979.-Events:* March 3 — The Public Broadcasting Service would telecast an entire Saturday night live from the Grand Ole Opry for the very first time - the show would last until 12:30 am with a half hour break between...
). - July 13 - Bradley KincaidBradley KincaidWilliam Bradley Kincaid was an American folk singer and radio entertainer.He was born in Point Level, Garrard County, Kentucky but built a music career in the northern states. His first radio appearance came in 1926 when he performed on the National Barn Dance show on WLS-AM in Chicago, Illinois...
, early country musician and folk singer. (d. 19891989 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1989.-Events:* May 9 — Rising country star Keith Whitley is found dead at his home, a victim of alcohol poisoning. News of his death sent shockwaves through the industry, given that he had been hailed as a future...
) - September 29 - Clarence AshleyClarence Ashley"Tom" Clarence Ashley was an American clawhammer banjo player, guitarist and singer. He began performing at medicine shows in the Southern Appalachian region as early as 1911, and gained initial fame during the late 1920s as both a solo recording artist and as a member of various string bands...
, banjoist, guitarist and early country musician. (d. 19671967 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1967.-Events:*April 1 — The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum opens in Nashville....
). - November 9 - George D. HayGeorge D. HayGeorge Dewey Hay was an American radio personality. He was the founder of the original Grand Ole Opry radio program on WSM-AM in Nashville, Tennessee, from which the country music stage show of the same name evolved....
, "The Solemn Old Judge", legendary announcer, first on WLSWLS (AM)WLS is a Chicago clear-channel AM station on 890 kHz. It uses C-QUAM AM stereo and transmits with 50,000 watts from transmitter and towers on the south edge of Tinley Park, Illinois....
and later on WSMWSM (AM)WSM is the callsign of a 50,000 watt AM radio station located in Nashville, Tennessee. Operating at 650 kHz, its clear channel signal can reach much of North America and various countries, especially late at night...
Grand Ole OpryGrand Ole OpryThe Grand Ole Opry is a weekly country music stage concert in Nashville, Tennessee, that has presented the biggest stars of that genre since 1925. It is also among the longest-running broadcasts in history since its beginnings as a one-hour radio "barn dance" on WSM-AM...
. (d. 19681968 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1968.-Events:* January 13 — Johnny Cash records his legendary concert at Folsom State Prison...
).
1896
- August 23 - Wendell HallWendell HallWendell Woods Hall was an American country singer, vaudeville artist, song writer, pioneer radio performer, Victor recording artist and ukelele player.-Biography:...
, "The Red Headed Music Maker", early country music singer. (d. 19691969 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1969.-Events:* January 29 — The Glen Campbell Goodtime Hour premieres on CBS, for what will be a three-year run....
).
1897
- March 20 - Frank HutchisonFrank HutchisonFrank Hutchison was an early country blues and piedmont blues musician.-Biography:...
, early country blues singer and slide guitar player. (d. 19451945 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1945.-Number one hits:* February 3 - "I'm Losing My Mind Over You" - Al Dexter...
). - September 8 - Jimmie RodgersJimmie Rodgers (country singer)James Charles Rodgers , known as Jimmie Rodgers, was an American country singer in the early 20th century known most widely for his rhythmic yodeling...
, "The Singing Brakeman", "America's Blue Yodeler", legendary country singer famous for his "Blue Yodels." (d. 19331933 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1933.- Births :* March 10 - Ralph Emery, radio and television personality.* April 15 - Roy Clark, singer and multi-instrumentalist, host of television's Hee Haw....
).
1898
- February 7 - Dock BoggsDock BoggsMoran Lee "Dock" Boggs was an influential old-time singer, songwriter and banjo player. His style of banjo playing, as well as his singing, is considered a unique combination of Appalachian folk music and African-American blues...
, old time country singer. (d. 19711971 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1971.-No dates:*Seeking younger, more urban viewers, CBS cancels nearly all of its rural-themed programming...
). - July 20 - J. E. MainerJ. E. MainerJ. E. Mainer was an American old time fiddler who followed in the wake of Gid Tanner and his Skillet Lickers.-Biography:...
, old time fiddle player of the Mountaineers and brother to Wade MainerWade MainerWade Mainer was an American singer and banjoist. With his band, the Sons of the Mountaineers, he is credited with bridging the gap between old-time mountain music and Bluegrass and is sometimes called the "Grandfather of Bluegrass." In addition, he innovated a two-finger banjo fingerpicking style,...
. (d. 19711971 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1971.-No dates:*Seeking younger, more urban viewers, CBS cancels nearly all of its rural-themed programming...
). - July 21 - Sara CarterSara CarterSara Carter was an American Country music musician. Known for her deep and distinctive singing voice, she was the lead singer on most of the recordings of the historic Carter Family act in the 1920s and 1930s....
, member of the legendary and original "Carter FamilyCarter FamilyThe Carter Family was a traditional American folk music group that recorded between 1927 and 1956. Their music had a profound impact on bluegrass, country, Southern Gospel, pop and rock musicians as well as on the U.S. folk revival of the 1960s. They were the first vocal group to become country...
". (d. 19791979 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1979.-Events:* March 3 — The Public Broadcasting Service would telecast an entire Saturday night live from the Grand Ole Opry for the very first time - the show would last until 12:30 am with a half hour break between...
). - August 24 - Fred RoseFred RoseFred Rose may refer to:*Fred Rose , publisher of country music*Fred Rose , Polish-born communist politician and trade union organiser in Canada*Fred Rose , cyclist...
, songwriter (including "Blue Eyes Crying in the RainBlue Eyes Crying in the Rain"Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain" is a song written by songwriter Fred Rose. Originally performed by Roy Acuff, the song was later recorded by Willie Nelson as part of his 1975 album Red Headed Stranger. Both the song and album would become iconic in country music history, and jump start Nelson's...
") founder of Acuff-Rose MusicAcuff-Rose MusicAcuff-Rose Music was an American music publishing firm formed by Roy Acuff and Fred Rose in Nashville, Tennessee. Acuff-Rose's honest behavior towards their writers set them apart from other music publishing firms at the time and lead them to fame throughout the 50's, 60's, 70's.-History:Acuff-Rose...
publishing (d. 19541954 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1954.- Events :* January 4 — Elvis Presley records a 10-inch acetate demo at the Memphis Recording Studio; the two songs are "Casual Love Affair" and "I'll Never Stand In Your Way."...
).
1899
- September 11 - Jimmie DavisJimmie DavisJames Houston Davis , better known as Jimmie Davis, was a noted singer of both sacred and popular songs who served two nonconsecutive terms as the 47th Governor of Louisiana...
, pop- and gospel-styled singer of the 1930s and 1940s ("You Are My SunshineYou Are My Sunshine"You Are My Sunshine" is a popular song first recorded in 1939. It has been declared one of the state songs of Louisiana as a result of its association with former state governor and country music singer Jimmie Davis. The song is copyright 1940 Peer International Corporation, words and music by...
"), who later served as governor of LouisianaLouisianaLouisiana is a state located in the southern region of the United States of America. Its capital is Baton Rouge and largest city is New Orleans. Louisiana is the only state in the U.S. with political subdivisions termed parishes, which are local governments equivalent to counties...
(d. 20002000 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 2000.-Events:* March 4 — "Amazed" by Lonestar becomes the first country song to have topped both the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks and the Billboard Hot 100 chart since the Kenny Rogers-Dolly Parton duet,...
). - December 14 - DeFord BaileyDeFord BaileyDeFord Bailey was an American country music star from the 1920s until 1941, and the first performer on the Grand Ole Opry...
, harmonicaHarmonicaThe harmonica, also called harp, French harp, blues harp, and mouth organ, is a free reed wind instrument used primarily in blues and American folk music, jazz, country, and rock and roll. It is played by blowing air into it or drawing air out by placing lips over individual holes or multiple holes...
ist and first African AmericanAfrican AmericanAfrican Americans are citizens or residents of the United States who have at least partial ancestry from any of the native populations of Sub-Saharan Africa and are the direct descendants of enslaved Africans within the boundaries of the present United States...
performer on the Grand Ole OpryGrand Ole OpryThe Grand Ole Opry is a weekly country music stage concert in Nashville, Tennessee, that has presented the biggest stars of that genre since 1925. It is also among the longest-running broadcasts in history since its beginnings as a one-hour radio "barn dance" on WSM-AM...
(d. 19821982 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1982.-Events:* October 30 — Hank Williams, Jr. has nine albums simultaneously on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart.-United States:...
).
1900
- January 26 - Clayton McMichenClayton McMichenClayton McMichen was an American fiddler and country musician.-Biography:Born in Allatoona, Georgia, McMichen learned to play the fiddle from his father and uncle. He moved to Atlanta with his family in 1913, working as an automobile mechanic. While there, he entered and won several competitions...
, pioneering fiddle player and member of the Skillet LickersSkillet LickersThe Skillet Lickers were an old-time band from Georgia, USA.When Gid Tanner teamed up with blind guitarist Riley Puckett and signed to Columbia in 1924, they created the label's earliest so-called "hillbilly" recording. Gid Tanner formed The Skillet Lickers in 1926. The first line-up was Gid...
(d. 19701970 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1970.-Events:* September — That Good Ole Nashville Music debuts in syndication. The series will run until 1985.-United States:...
). - April 15 - J.L. Frank, music executive (d. 19521952 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1952.- Events :* July 14 — The Eddy Arnold Show, a brief summer replacement series, debuts on CBS-TV.* August 23 — Kitty Wells becomes the first female solo artist to score a No...
).
1901
- May 12 - The Duke of Paducah, comedian and star of the Grand Ole Opry (d. 19861986 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1986.-Events:* January 18 — "American Country Countdown" with Bob Kingsley expands from three to four hours. Several new features — including a chronological playback of songs reaching No...
).
1903
- September 15 - Roy AcuffRoy AcuffRoy Claxton Acuff was an American country music singer, fiddler, and promoter. Known as the King of Country Music, Acuff is often credited with moving the genre from its early string band and "hoedown" format to the star singer-based format that helped make it internationally successful.Acuff...
, pioneering singer-songwriter of the 1930s onward, founder of Acuff-Rose MusicAcuff-Rose MusicAcuff-Rose Music was an American music publishing firm formed by Roy Acuff and Fred Rose in Nashville, Tennessee. Acuff-Rose's honest behavior towards their writers set them apart from other music publishing firms at the time and lead them to fame throughout the 50's, 60's, 70's.-History:Acuff-Rose...
publishing, longtime member of the Grand Ole Opry (d. 19921992 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1992.-Events:* January — After 23 years of its tried-and-true formula, the producers of Hee Haw unveil an extensively revamped show in time for the start of its belated 24th season...
). - December 6 - Hugh Farr, member of the Sons of the PioneersSons of the PioneersThe Sons of the Pioneers are one of America's earliest Western singing groups whose classic recordings set a new standard for performers of Western music. Known for the high quality of their vocal performances, musicianship, and songwriting, they produced finely-crafted and innovative recordings...
(d. 19801980 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1980.- Events :* January 25 — At age 84, octogenerian comedian George Burns becomes by far the oldest performer to have a single in the top 40 of Billboards Hot Country Singles chart with "I Wish I Was 18 Again." The...
).
1905
- January 12 - Tex RitterTex RitterWoodward Maurice Ritter , better known as Tex Ritter, was an American country music singer and movie actor popular from the mid-1930s into the 1960s, and the patriarch of the Ritter family in acting...
, singing cowboy and actor, father of actor John RitterJohn RitterJonathan Southworth "John" Ritter was an American actor, voice over artist and comedian perhaps best known for having played Jack Tripper and Paul Hennessy in the ABC sitcoms Three's Company and 8 Simple Rules, respectively...
(d. 19741974 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1974.-Events:* March 16 — The Grand Ole Opry moves from the Ryman Auditorium, its home of the past 41 years, to the newly constructed 4,400 Grand Ole Opry House, on the Opryland complex. President Richard Nixon is a guest...
). - March 6 - Bob WillsBob WillsJames Robert Wills , better known as Bob Wills, was an American Western Swing musician, songwriter, and bandleader, considered by music authorities as the co-founder of Western Swing and universally known as the pioneering King of Western Swing.Bob Wills' name will forever be associated with...
, western swing pioneer, frontman of the Texas Playboys (d. 19751975 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1975.-Events:*March 13 — The rocky marriage of George Jones and Tammy Wynette ends in divorce....
).
1907
- September 29 - Gene AutryGene AutryOrvon Grover Autry , better known as Gene Autry, was an American performer who gained fame as The Singing Cowboy on the radio, in movies and on television for more than three decades beginning in the 1930s...
, singing cowboy and star of big-screen westerns; introduced Christmas standards including "Rudolph the Red-Nosed ReindeerRudolph the Red-Nosed ReindeerRudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer is a fictional reindeer with a glowing red nose. He is popularly known as "Santa's 9th Reindeer" and, when depicted, is the lead reindeer pulling Santa's sleigh on Christmas Eve. The luminosity of his nose is so great that it illuminates the team's path through...
") (d. 19981998 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1998.-Events:*January 10 — "Retro Country USA," a weekly two-hour syndicated radio program spotlighting major country hits of the 1980s , premieres...
).
1908
- April 1 - Bob NolanBob NolanBob Nolan was a Canadian-born American singer, songwriter, and actor. He was a founding member of the Sons of the Pioneers, and composer of numerous Country music and Western music songs, including the standards "Cool Water" and "Tumbling Tumbleweeds." He is generally regarded as one of the...
, member of the Sons of the PioneersSons of the PioneersThe Sons of the Pioneers are one of America's earliest Western singing groups whose classic recordings set a new standard for performers of Western music. Known for the high quality of their vocal performances, musicianship, and songwriting, they produced finely-crafted and innovative recordings...
(d. 19801980 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1980.- Events :* January 25 — At age 84, octogenerian comedian George Burns becomes by far the oldest performer to have a single in the top 40 of Billboards Hot Country Singles chart with "I Wish I Was 18 Again." The...
). - July 13 - Tim Spencer, member of the Sons of the PioneersSons of the PioneersThe Sons of the Pioneers are one of America's earliest Western singing groups whose classic recordings set a new standard for performers of Western music. Known for the high quality of their vocal performances, musicianship, and songwriting, they produced finely-crafted and innovative recordings...
(d. 19741974 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1974.-Events:* March 16 — The Grand Ole Opry moves from the Ryman Auditorium, its home of the past 41 years, to the newly constructed 4,400 Grand Ole Opry House, on the Opryland complex. President Richard Nixon is a guest...
). - October 30 - Patsy MontanaPatsy MontanaRuby Rose Blevins , known professionally as Patsy Montana, was an American country music singer-songwriter and the first female country performer to have a million-selling single...
, early female solo star best known for "I Want to Be a Cowboy's SweetheartI Want to be a Cowboy's Sweetheart"I Want to be a Cowboy's Sweetheart" is a country and Western song written and first recorded in 1935 by Rubye Blevins, who performed as Patsy Montana. It was the first country and Western song by a female artist to sell more than one million copies....
" (d. 19961996 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1996.-Events:* June 28 — First annual Country Stampede Music Festival begins* October 6 — Tim McGraw and Faith Hill are married, and quickly become country music's most visible couple...
). - November 10 - Paul CohenPaul Cohen (producer)Paul Cohen was an American country music producer.One of the men chiefly responsible for Nashville’s emergence as the country music recording capital and the Nashville Sound was Chicago-born Paul Cohen, long-time Decca Records executive...
, record producer, primarily with Decca RecordsDecca RecordsDecca Records began as a British record label established in 1929 by Edward Lewis. Its U.S. label was established in late 1934; however, owing to World War II, the link with the British company was broken for several decades....
(d. 19701970 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1970.-Events:* September — That Good Ole Nashville Music debuts in syndication. The series will run until 1985.-United States:...
) - December 19 - Bill CarlisleBill CarlisleWilliam Toliver Carlisle was an American country music singer, songwriter, comedian and guitarist popular in the late 1940s and 1950s but who influenced the genre for more than 50 years. He is a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame.-Biography:Bill Carlisle was born in Wakefield, Kentucky...
, singer-guitarist and comedian, longtime member of the Grand Ole OpryGrand Ole OpryThe Grand Ole Opry is a weekly country music stage concert in Nashville, Tennessee, that has presented the biggest stars of that genre since 1925. It is also among the longest-running broadcasts in history since its beginnings as a one-hour radio "barn dance" on WSM-AM...
(d. 20032003 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 2003.-Events:*March 10 — During a concert in London, England, Dixie Chicks lead singer Natalie Maines said that the band was "ashamed the President of the United States is from Texas"...
). - December 25 - Alton Delmore, one half of the Delmore Brothers (d. 19641964 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1964.-Events:* January 11 — Billboard increases the length of its Hot Country Singles chart to 50 positions, up from 30....
).
1909
- April 29 - Karl Farr, member of the Sons of the PioneersSons of the PioneersThe Sons of the Pioneers are one of America's earliest Western singing groups whose classic recordings set a new standard for performers of Western music. Known for the high quality of their vocal performances, musicianship, and songwriting, they produced finely-crafted and innovative recordings...
(d. 19611961 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1961.-Events:*March 17 – September 22 — NBC-TV airs Five Star Jubilee, a weekly show featuring five rotating hosts: Rex Allen, Snooky Lanson, Tex Ritter, Carl Smith and Jimmy Wakely.*June 14 — Patsy Cline is seriously...
). - May 10 - "Mother" Maybelle CarterMaybelle Carter"Mother" Maybelle Carter was an American country musician. She is best known as a member of the historic Carter Family act in the 1920s and 1930s and also as a member of Mother Maybelle and the Carter Sisters.-Biography:...
, member of the original Carter Family in the 1920s and 1930s, and reformed group from the 1940s onward (d. 19781978 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1978.-Events:* March 4 — The Public Broadcasting System telecasts the first complete Grand Ole Opry show from the new Grand Ole Opry House as it happened from 6-9 pm...
).
1910
- June 17 – Red FoleyRed FoleyClyde Julian Foley , better known as Red Foley, was an American singer, musician, and radio and TV personality who made a major contribution to the growth of country music after World War II....
, guitarist and songwriter, one of country music's top stars of the 1940s and 1950s (d. 19681968 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1968.-Events:* January 13 — Johnny Cash records his legendary concert at Folsom State Prison...
). - August 22 - Rod BrasfieldRod BrasfieldRodney Leon Brasfield was an American comedian who was prominently featured on the Grand Ole Opry from 1947 until his death in 1958. In 1987, he was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame.-Biography:...
, comedian and star of the Grand Ole Opry (d. 19581958 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1958.-Events:*January 1 — Johnny Cash performs at San Quentin Prison. One of the audience members is Merle Haggard, in the midst of a two-year prison term for burglary....
).
1911
- January 19 – Ken NelsonKen Nelson (United States record producer)Kenneth F. Nelson was a American record producer and A & R man for Capitol Records.-Early life:Born in Caledonia, Minnesota, at the age of 14, Nelson made his radio single debut as a singer in 1925...
, American record producer and music executive; associated with acts including Merle HaggardMerle HaggardMerle Ronald Haggard is an American country music singer, guitarist, fiddler, instrumentalist, and songwriter. Along with Buck Owens, Haggard and his band The Strangers helped create the Bakersfield sound, which is characterized by the unique twang of Fender Telecaster guitars, vocal harmonies,...
, Buck OwensBuck OwensAlvis Edgar Owens, Jr. , better known as Buck Owens, was an American singer and guitarist who had 21 No. 1 hits on the Billboard country music charts with his band, the Buckaroos...
and Hank ThompsonHank Thompson (music)Henry William Thompson , known professionally as Hank Thompson, was an American country music entertainer whose career spanned seven decades...
(d. 20082008 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 2008.-Events:* April 27 — A story in the New York Daily News reported a possible long-term relationship between Mindy McCready and baseball star Roger Clemens that began when she was 15 years old...
). - February 12 - Stephen H. SholesStephen H. SholesStephen H. Sholes was a prominent recording executive with RCA Victor.-Career:He was born Stephen Henry Sholes, in Washington, D.C.. His family moved to Camden, New Jersey, where his father worked in the RCA Victor plant. Sholes started work at RCA Victor as a messenger boy in 1929...
, record producer and executive with RCA RecordsRCA RecordsRCA Records is one of the flagship labels of Sony Music Entertainment. The RCA initials stand for Radio Corporation of America , which was the parent corporation from 1929 to 1985 and a partner from 1985 to 1986.RCA's Canadian unit is Sony's oldest label...
) (d. 19681968 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1968.-Events:* January 13 — Johnny Cash records his legendary concert at Folsom State Prison...
). - February 28 - Jim Denny, recording executive (d. 19631963 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1963.-Events:*March — The month marks a dark time for country music, as it lost no less than five people in a seemingly endless string of tragedies.-United States:...
). - September 13 - Bill MonroeBill MonroeWilliam Smith Monroe was an American musician who created the style of music known as bluegrass, which takes its name from his band, the "Blue Grass Boys," named for Monroe's home state of Kentucky. Monroe's performing career spanned 60 years as a singer, instrumentalist, composer and bandleader...
, influential bluegrass singer and musician (d. 19961996 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1996.-Events:* June 28 — First annual Country Stampede Music Festival begins* October 6 — Tim McGraw and Faith Hill are married, and quickly become country music's most visible couple...
). - November 5 - Roy RogersRoy RogersRoy Rogers, born Leonard Franklin Slye , was an American singer and cowboy actor, one of the most heavily marketed and merchandised stars of his era, as well as being the namesake of the Roy Rogers Restaurants franchised chain...
, singing cowboy and actor who starred in many westerns; member of the Sons of the PioneersSons of the PioneersThe Sons of the Pioneers are one of America's earliest Western singing groups whose classic recordings set a new standard for performers of Western music. Known for the high quality of their vocal performances, musicianship, and songwriting, they produced finely-crafted and innovative recordings...
(d. 19981998 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1998.-Events:*January 10 — "Retro Country USA," a weekly two-hour syndicated radio program spotlighting major country hits of the 1980s , premieres...
).
1912
- May 17 - Grant Turner, announcer of the Grand Ole Opry (d. 19911991 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1991.-Events:* March 16 — The country music world is stunned when seven members of Reba McEntire's band and her road manager are killed in a plane crash in California...
). - October 25 - Minnie PearlMinnie PearlSarah Ophelia Colley Cannon , known professionally as Minnie Pearl, was an American country comedienne who appeared at the Grand Ole Opry for more than 50 years and on the television show Hee Haw from 1969 to 1991.-Early life:Sarah Colley was born in Centerville, in Hickman County, Tennessee,...
, comedienne and star of the Grand Ole Opry and television's Hee HawHee HawHee Haw is an American television variety show featuring country music and humor with fictional rural Kornfield Kounty as a backdrop. It aired on CBS-TV from 1969–1971 before a 20-year run in local syndication. The show was inspired by Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In, the major difference being...
(d. 19961996 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1996.-Events:* June 28 — First annual Country Stampede Music Festival begins* October 6 — Tim McGraw and Faith Hill are married, and quickly become country music's most visible couple...
). - December 8 - Jack StappJack StappJack Stapp was an influential country music manager.- External links :*...
, influential country music manager (d. 19801980 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1980.- Events :* January 25 — At age 84, octogenerian comedian George Burns becomes by far the oldest performer to have a single in the top 40 of Billboards Hot Country Singles chart with "I Wish I Was 18 Again." The...
).
1913
- October 20 - Grandpa JonesGrandpa JonesLouis Marshall Jones , known professionally as Grandpa Jones, was an American banjo player and "old time" country and gospel music singer...
, "old-time" country signer, banjo player and comedian, star of television's Hee Haw (d. 19981998 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1998.-Events:*January 10 — "Retro Country USA," a weekly two-hour syndicated radio program spotlighting major country hits of the 1980s , premieres...
).
1914
- February 9 – Ernest TubbErnest TubbErnest Dale Tubb , nicknamed the Texas Troubadour, was an American singer and songwriter and one of the pioneers of country music. His biggest career hit song, "Walking the Floor Over You" , marked the rise of the honky tonk style of music...
, the "Texas Troubadour," singer-songwriter and one of the pioneers of the honky tonk sound of country music (d. 19841984 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1984.-Events:* June 22 — The movie Rhinestone, starring Dolly Parton and Sylvester Stallone, is released to universally negative reviews...
). - February 18 - Pee Wee KingPee Wee KingJulius Frank Anthony Kuczynski , known professionally as Pee Wee King, was an American country music songwriter and recording artist best known for co-writing "The Tennessee Waltz"....
, singer-songwriter, best known for writing "The Tennessee WaltzThe Tennessee Waltz"Tennessee Waltz" is a popular/country music song with lyrics by Redd Stewart and music by Pee Wee King written in 1946 and first released in December 1947 as a single by Cowboy Copas that same year...
" (d. 20002000 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 2000.-Events:* March 4 — "Amazed" by Lonestar becomes the first country song to have topped both the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks and the Billboard Hot 100 chart since the Kenny Rogers-Dolly Parton duet,...
). - May 13 - Johnnie WrightJohnnie WrightJohnnie Robert Wright, Jr. , known professionally as Johnnie Wright, was an American country music singer-songwriter who spent much of his career working with Jack Anglin as the popular duo Johnnie & Jack, and was also the husband of Kitty Wells.-Early life and career:Born in Mount Juliet,...
, singer-songwriter and husband of Kitty WellsKitty WellsEllen Muriel Deason , known professionally as Kitty Wells, is an American country music singer. Her 1952 hit recording, "It Wasn't God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels", made her the first female country singer to top the U.S. country charts, and turned her into the first female country star...
(d. 20112011 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 2011.-Events:*January 1 — Shania Twain marries Swiss businessman Frédéric Thiébaud in Puerto Rico, less than two weeks after announcing the two were engaged...
). - May 14 - Hank SnowHank SnowClarence Eugene "Hank" Snow was a Canadian-American country music artist. He charted more than 70 singles on the Billboard country charts from 1950 until 1980...
, Canadian-born honky-tonk and western singer (d. 19991999 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1999.-Events:*March 6 — Legendary performer George Jones, in the midst of a comeback this year, is seriously injured when he crashed his Lexus into a bridge...
). - June 19 - Lester FlattLester FlattLester Raymond Flatt was a bluegrass musician and guitarist and mandolinist, best known for his membership in the Bluegrass duo The Foggy Mountain Boys, also known as "Flatt and Scruggs," with banjo picker Earl Scruggs. Flatt's career spanned multiple decades; besides his work with Scruggs, he...
, one half of the bluegrass duo Flatt and Scruggs (d. 19791979 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1979.-Events:* March 3 — The Public Broadcasting Service would telecast an entire Saturday night live from the Grand Ole Opry for the very first time - the show would last until 12:30 am with a half hour break between...
). - August 22 - Connie B. Gay, music executive (d. 19891989 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1989.-Events:* May 9 — Rising country star Keith Whitley is found dead at his home, a victim of alcohol poisoning. News of his death sent shockwaves through the industry, given that he had been hailed as a future...
). - November 5 - Roy Horton, music executive (d. 20032003 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 2003.-Events:*March 10 — During a concert in London, England, Dixie Chicks lead singer Natalie Maines said that the band was "ashamed the President of the United States is from Texas"...
). - December 8 - Floyd TillmanFloyd TillmanFloyd Tillman was an American country musician who, in the 1930s and 1940s, helped create the Western swing and honky tonk genres. Tillman was inducted into the Songwriters’ Hall of Fame in 1970 and the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1984.-Early life:Tillman grew up in the cotton-mill town of Post,...
, early honky-tonk singer of the 1940s (d. 2003).
1915
- June 1 - Johnny BondJohnny BondCyrus Whitfield Bond , known professionally as Johnny Bond, was a popular American country music entertainer of the 1940s through the 1960s.-Biography:...
, singer of the 1940s through 1960s, best known for his novelty songs about drunkenness (d. 19781978 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1978.-Events:* March 4 — The Public Broadcasting System telecasts the first complete Grand Ole Opry show from the new Grand Ole Opry House as it happened from 6-9 pm...
). - June 9 – Les PaulLes PaulLester William Polsfuss —known as Les Paul—was an American jazz and country guitarist, songwriter and inventor. He was a pioneer in the development of the solid-body electric guitar which made the sound of rock and roll possible. He is credited with many recording innovations...
, one of the most important persons in the development of modern electric instruments (the electric guitarGibson Les PaulThe Gibson Les Paul was the result of a design collaboration between Gibson Guitar Corporation and the late jazz guitarist and electronics inventor Les Paul. In 1950, with the introduction of the Fender Telecaster to the musical market, electric guitars became a public craze. In reaction, Gibson...
) and recording techniques (multitrack recordingMultitrack recordingMultitrack recording is a method of sound recording that allows for the separate recording of multiple sound sources to create a cohesive whole...
), which came into extensive use in country music starting in the 1950s. (d. 2009) - October 21 - Owen BradleyOwen BradleyOwen Bradley was an American record producer who, along with Chet Atkins and Bob Ferguson, was one of the chief architects of the 1950s and 1960s Nashville sound in country music and rockabilly.-Before the fame:...
, influential record producer of the 1940s through 1970s, primarily at Decca RecordsDecca RecordsDecca Records began as a British record label established in 1929 by Edward Lewis. Its U.S. label was established in late 1934; however, owing to World War II, the link with the British company was broken for several decades....
(d. 1998)
1916
- December 3 - Rabon Delmore, one half of the Delmore Brothers (d. 19521952 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1952.- Events :* July 14 — The Eddy Arnold Show, a brief summer replacement series, debuts on CBS-TV.* August 23 — Kitty Wells becomes the first female solo artist to score a No...
).
1917
- January 29 - Lloyd Perryman, member of the Sons of the PioneersSons of the PioneersThe Sons of the Pioneers are one of America's earliest Western singing groups whose classic recordings set a new standard for performers of Western music. Known for the high quality of their vocal performances, musicianship, and songwriting, they produced finely-crafted and innovative recordings...
(d. 19771977 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1977.-Events:*June 25 — Waylon Jennings smash, "Luckenbach, Texas " spends its sixth week at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. It is just the third six-week No...
). - March 1 - Cliffie StoneCliffie StoneCliffie Stone , born Clifford Gilpin Snyder, was an American country singer, musician, record producer, music publisher, and radio and TV personality who was pivotal in the development of California’s thriving country music scene after World War II during a career that lasted six decades...
, record producer and publisher who was pivotal in the development of California’s thriving country music scene (d. 19981998 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1998.-Events:*January 10 — "Retro Country USA," a weekly two-hour syndicated radio program spotlighting major country hits of the 1980s , premieres...
). - November 29 - Merle TravisMerle TravisMerle Robert Travis was an American country and western singer, songwriter, and musician born in Rosewood, Kentucky. His lyrics often discussed the life and exploitation of coal miners. Among his many well-known songs are "Sixteen Tons", "Re-Enlistment Blues" and "Dark as a Dungeon"...
, singer-songwriter of the 1940s, whose lyrics discussed the life and exploitation of coal miners and blue-collar workers (d. 19831983 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1983.-Events:* March — In a span of two days, two major cable networks signed on the air. Country Music Television went on-the-air March 5, while The Nashville Network came on two days later on March 7...
).
1918
- February 11 - Wesley RoseWesley RoseWesley Rose was an American music industry executive and record producer.The son of songwriter Fred Rose, he was born in Chicago, Illinois, and studied to become a Chartered Accountant...
, music publisher and executive of Acuff-Rose MusicAcuff-Rose MusicAcuff-Rose Music was an American music publishing firm formed by Roy Acuff and Fred Rose in Nashville, Tennessee. Acuff-Rose's honest behavior towards their writers set them apart from other music publishing firms at the time and lead them to fame throughout the 50's, 60's, 70's.-History:Acuff-Rose...
(d. 19901990 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1990.-Events:* January 20 — Billboard magazine begins basing the Hot Country Singles chart entirely on radio airplay through Nielsen Broadcast Data Systems , which uses a computerized system to detect actual radio spins....
). - May 15 – Eddy ArnoldEddy ArnoldRichard Edward Arnold , known professionally as Eddy Arnold, was an American country music singer who performed for six decades. He was a so-called Nashville sound innovator of the late 1950s, and scored 147 songs on the Billboard country music charts, second only to George Jones. He sold more...
, the "Tennessee Plowboy"; a pioneer in crossover music, his recording career spanned from the 1940s through 1990s. (d. 2008) - July 20 - Cindy WalkerCindy WalkerCindy Walker was a prolific American songwriter, as well as a country music singer and dancer. As a songwriter Walker was responsible for a large number of popular and enduring songs recorded by many different artists. She adopted a craftsman-like approach to her songwriting, often tailoring...
, songwriter whose hits spanned the 1940s through 1980s (d. 20062006 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 2006.-Events:* January 14 — With the song, "She Let Herself Go," George Strait scores his 40th No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, all of them solo. It ties a 20-year-old record for most No...
). - October 16 - Stoney CooperStoney CooperDale Troy Cooper , known professionally as Stoney Cooper, was an American country star and member of the Grand Ole Opry. He was a master of the fiddle and the guitar.-Biography:...
, bluegrass and gospel singer who best known for his series of recordings with wife, Wilma LeeWilma Lee CooperWilma Lee Leary , known professionally as Wilma Lee Cooper, was an American bluegrass-based country music entertainer.-Biography:...
(as Wilma Lee and Stoney Cooper), from the 1940s through early 1960s. (d. 19771977 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1977.-Events:*June 25 — Waylon Jennings smash, "Luckenbach, Texas " spends its sixth week at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. It is just the third six-week No...
)
1919
- February 13 - Tennessee Ernie FordTennessee Ernie FordErnest Jennings Ford , better known as Tennessee Ernie Ford, was an American recording artist and television host who enjoyed success in the country and Western, pop, and gospel musical genres...
, singer and television star who enjoyed his greatest fame in the 1950s (d. 19911991 in country musicThis is a list of notable events in country music that took place in the year 1991.-Events:* March 16 — The country music world is stunned when seven members of Reba McEntire's band and her road manager are killed in a plane crash in California...
). - August 30 – Kitty WellsKitty WellsEllen Muriel Deason , known professionally as Kitty Wells, is an American country music singer. Her 1952 hit recording, "It Wasn't God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels", made her the first female country singer to top the U.S. country charts, and turned her into the first female country star...
, "The Queen of Country Music;" first major female country star, best known for "It Wasn't God Who Made Honky Tonk AngelsIt Wasn't God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels"It Wasn't God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels" is a 1952 country song written by J. D. "Jay" Miller, and originally recorded by Kitty Wells. It was an answer song to the Hank Thompson hit "The Wild Side of Life."...
."
Further reading
- Kingsbury, Paul, "Vinyl Hayride: Country Music Album Covers 1947-1989," Country Music Foundation, 2003 (ISBN 0-8118-3572-3)
- Millard, Bob, "Country Music: 70 Years of America's Favorite Music," HarperCollins, New York, 1993 (ISBN 0-06-273244-7)
- Whitburn, Joel. "Joel Whitburn's Pop Memories 1890-1954: The History of American Popular Music," Record Research Inc., Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin, 1986 (ISBN 0-89820-083-0).