March 19 in Country Music History

In 2000, Speck Rhodes, best known for his role as comedian and bass player on the Porter Wagoner tv and road show, died at age 84. He and Porter had a natural chemistry, having both been born in West Plains, Missouri.

In 1988, Fiddlin' Sid Harkreader passed away. For an interesting article on this historic gentleman, please click here:

http://www.markbrine.com/country_music_roots/fiddlin_sid_harkreader.htm

In 1988, Ricky Van Shelton hit Number One with "Life Turned Her That Way".

In 1983, Ricky Skaggs topped the charts with "I Wouldn't Change You If I Could".

In 1980, Aunt Sap passed away. As we have mentioned several times in the past few weeks, she and her husband, Uncle Cyp, were pioneers in the country music television show, Ozark Jubilee.

In 1977, hitmaker and super guitarist Glen Campbell went to the top spot on the charts with "Southern Nights".

In 1960, Tootsie Bess opened her nightspot across the alley from the Ryman Auditorium, the home of the Grand Ole Opry.

In 1957, Elvis purchased Graceland, probably second only to the White House in popularity as a residence in the USA.

In 1950, Jerry Eubanks of the Marshall Tucker Band was born.

In 1949, Red Foley achieved a number one record for "Tennessee Saturday Night".

In 1945, Michael Martin Murphy was born. He has written and sung many western tunes, and has had a number of country and pop hits. His biggest hit probably is still the haunting "Wildfire". Here's a link to find out how talented this Number One Cowboy Artist really is:

http://www.michaelmartinmurphey.com/

In 1928, Henry Ford Maddox of The Maddox Brothers and Sister Rose, was born in Boaz, Alabama.