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".
