In 1923, Sam Phillips, founder of Sun Records, and discoverer of many musical greats, was born in Florence, Alabama.
In 1923, Big Bill Lister was born in Karnes County, Texas. He never had a real big hit, though he was talented enough to work with many of the greatest of stars. He opened regularly for Hank Williams, and recorded one of William's songs, "There's A Tear In My Beer". He kept an old acetate on hand, and presented it to Hank, Jr, who then recorded the song "with" his father with some modern technological assistance. It became a major event in country music. Many of us feel that had he ever had one hit, he would have been one of the biggest stars in country music. He was anyway, as he was somewhere around 6'7" tall.
In 1946, Tex Ritter began a three week run at the top of the charts with "You Will Have To Pay". On another version of the country charts, Bob Wills was at the top with "White Cross On Okinawa".
In 1961, singer-songwriter Iris DeMent was born in Paragould, Arkansas.
In 1961, singer, songwriter, and performing artist Mark Nesler was born in Beaumont, Texas. He has had a very successful career as a guitarist and a songwriter.
In 1963, Marty Robbins enjoyed time at the top of the charts with "Ruby Ann".
In 1980, "Coward Of The County", by Kenny Rogers, started the first of three weeks at Number One on the charts.
In 1985, George Strait sat atop the charts with one of his greatest, "Does Fort Worth Ever Cross Your Mind".
