In 1914, Jimmy Wakely was born in Mineola, Arkansas. Of twenty three hits, he had one that charted as low as Number Fourteen, and ALL of the rest were Top Tens, three Number Ones. Though his biggest hit was "Slipping Around", a duet with Margaret Whiting, he was known as a singer, songwriter, guitarist, pianist, star of radio and TV, and was also successful in the movies. In fact, he was successful at everything which he did. HE SHOULD BE IN THE HALL OF FAME!
In 1924, Jo Walker-Meador was born in Orlinda, Tennessee. She was one of the great music executives in the golden age of country music, and was elected to the Hall of Fame in 1995, along with Roger Miller. Having met her, I can assure you that she was one of the many nice ladies that did so much for country music, and who are not recognized by the public for their contributions to the genre. Since she left as executive director of the CMA, the genre has never been the same.
In 1943, hit making machine Ronnie Milsap was born in Robbinsville, North Carolina. This blind artist, who is a singer, songwriter, and keyboard artist, first reached pay dirt when he worked with Elvis Presley on an album in 1969. In his career to date, he has charted 62 singles, with 35 of them being Number Ones. Another thirteen were Top Ten hits. Why is HE not in the Hall of Fame?
In 1950, guitarist Paul Worley was born in Nashville, Tennessee. Though he has produced some POP country acts, his biggest contributions to country music were as a session guitarist.
In 1967, Smiley Burnette passed away in Encino, California. Though maybe remembered for all his appearances in Western movies, in addition to his acting roles, he is remembered for his talents as a comedian, singer, songwriter, and instrumentalist. This movie, radio and TV star is a member of the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame, with his songs having been covered by many of the biggest country and western stars. He was also able to play more than 100 instruments, including almost anything with strings, keys, including the accordion and concertina, and others.
In 1969, George Jones and Tammy Wynette were married. It was one of the stormiest marriages, with many legendary tales of their disagreements and actions, including Jones riding to the liquor store on his lawnmower because Tammy had taken his car keys.
In 1974, Johnny Rodriguez topped the charts with "That's The Way Love Goes". Ten years later it would be a Number One for Merle Haggard.
In 1980, Don Williams was atop the charts with "Love Me Over Again".
In 1985, The Oak Ridge Boys were at Number One on the charts with "Make My Life With You".
