May 9 in Country Music History

In 1914, Hank Snow was born in Liverpool, Nova Scotia, Canada. One of the greatest imports ever, and my kind of immigrant.  Hank charted eighty five songs, with seven of them making it to Number One, and another thirty six of them being Top Ten records. 

In 1953, Jim Reeves topped the charts with "Mexican Joe". 

In 1970, Dave Dudley was at Number One with "The Pool Shark".

In 1981, Ronnie Milsap was at Number One for asking the musical question: "Am I Losing You?"

In 1983, country music promoter Bob Neal died. He was a legend due to his work with Sun Records, and especially Elvis.

In 1984, Nudie Cohn, tailor to the stars, passed away in North Hollywood, California. If any of you have one of his suits hanging in a size 54 or 56 Extra Tall, and are in a generous mood, I would sure like to have one. 

In 1987, Michael Johnson hit Number One with "The Moon Is Still Over Her Shoulder". This was a tune that was much like the pop hits he had in the seventies. Johnson is one of the greatest classical guitarists in the world.


In 1989, Keith Whitley passed away. In his brief time here he left a musical legacy that we will remember for a long time.  On the charts nineteen times, he had five Number One records, and five more Top Tens.  I wonder if country music would be in such a sad state if he were still here with us.

In 1992, Brooks and Dunn ruled the charts with "Neon Moon".