1905
Born on this day near near Kosse, Texas was James Robert Wills, better known as the American Western swing musician Bob Wills who is considered by music authorities as the co-founder of Western swing. Wills who was also a member of The Texas Playboys died on May 13, 1975.
1934
Born on this day in in Higley, Arizona was country singer-songwriter Red Simpson, best known for his trucker-themed songs. His first #1 hit was with “Sam’s Place,” recorded by Buck Owens. Simpson died on January 8, 2016.
1964
Born on this day in Redlands, California, was Skip Ewing. Artists who have recorded Ewing’s songs include Conway Twitty, George Jones, Kenny Rogers, George Strait, Willie Nelson, Kenny Chesney, Clint Black, Collin Raye, Diamond Rio, Reba McEntire, Tim McGraw, Trisha Yearwood, Randy Travis and Merle Haggard
1967
Winners at the second Academy of Country Music Awards hosted by Lorne Green included: Top Female Vocalist of the Year, Bonnie Guitar, Top Male Vocalist of the Year, Merle Haggard, Top Vocal Group, Bonnie Owens and Merle Haggard, Most Promising Female Vocalist of the Year Cathie Taylor, Most Promising Male Vocalist of the Year, Billy Mize and Most Promising Vocal Group went to Bob Morris and Faye Hardin.
1972
Dolly Parton released her ninth solo studio album Touch Your Woman. The album’s title song and single, “Touch Your Woman”, was nominated for Best Country Vocal Performance, Female, at the 15th Annual Grammy Awards.
1973
Born on this day in Amarillo, Texas was country music artist Trent Willmon. Apart from releasing his own albums, as a songwriter he co-wrote Montgomery Gentry’s 2009 single “Back When I Knew It All” and Steel Magnolia’s 2010 single “Keep On Lovin'” and had a co-write on Brad Paisley’s 5th Gear album.
1999George Jones, in the midst of a comeback this year, was seriously injured when he crashed his Lexus into a bridge. It was later revealed that alcohol was a factor in the accident, and the singer pleaded guilty to drunk driving charges.
