Your daily look at this day in country history, from classic Opry nights to the newest No. 1 hits.
On December 14, 1998, Garth Brooks was at No. 1 on the country albums chart with Double Live. In 1974, Billy Swan reached No. 1 on the country chart with "I Can Help." It’s also DeFord Bailey’s birthday.
Garth Brooks was at No. 1 on the country albums chart with Double Live. The two-disc set, recorded on his world tour, became the best-selling live album in U.S. history.
DeFord Bailey was born in Smith County, Tennessee. The harmonica great was one of the first acts on the Grand Ole Opry and the first African American performer on the show.
Charlie Rich, known as the Silver Fox, was born in Colt, Arkansas. He is best remembered for his 1973 No. 1 hits "Behind Closed Doors" and "The Most Beautiful Girl."
Billy Swan reached No. 1 on the country chart with "I Can Help." The catchy song was also a big hit overseas.
Billie Jo Spears died at 73 at her home in Vidor, Texas, after a battle with cancer. Her best-known song, "Blanket on the Ground," went to No. 1 on the country chart in 1975.
DeFord Bailey (1899) was born on this date.
It depends on the year. In 1974, Billy Swan reached No. 1 on the country chart with "I Can Help." In 1998, Garth Brooks was at No. 1 on the country albums chart with Double Live.
Every entry is checked by the Country Thang Daily editors. Spot something we got wrong? Let us know and we’ll fix it and note the change.