February 28 in Country Music History

In 1911, Hall of Fame member Jim Denny was born in Silverpoint, Tennessee.  He was one of the most successful music publishers and talent managers in country music history.  He also was one of the greatest of the Opry managers. 

In 1923, Audrey Sheppard was born in Banks, Alabama. She became the first wife of country music legend Hank Williams and the mother of Hank Williams, Jr. She is also the grandmother of Shelton Hank Williams and Holly Williams.

In 1927, Don Helms, great steel guitar player, who was most famous for his work in the Drifting Cowboys Band of Hank Williams,  was born in New Brockton, Alabama.  Influenced by Pappy Neal McCormick, he also was famous for working with Patsy Cline, and many other greats, including Stonewall Jackson, the Louvin Brothers, Lefty Frizzell and Loretta Lynn.  Quite a resume for probably one of the more unique steel guitar players in country music history. 

In 1940, Joe South was born in Atlanta, Georgia.  As a singer, songwriter and guitarist, in country music he is most well known for his role as songwriter on "Rose Garden". 

In 1971, Fiddlin' Arthur Smith passed away.  He was a star of the Grand Ole Opry for many years. 

In 1981, Dottie West was at Number One with "Are You Happy Baby?"

In 1987, Earl Thomas Conley was at Number One on the charts with "I Can't Win For Losin' You".