This Day in Country History: February 13
Feb. 13 has seen several key moments in country music history, from the release of iconic albums to the birth of legendary artists. On this day, country singers have recorded breakthrough hits and achieved important milestones in their careers. Here’s a look at some of the most significant events on this date throughout history.
Breakthrough Hits and Milestones
Here are some key hits and major moments from Feb. 13:
- 1971: Sammi Smith hit No. 1 on the Billboard charts for her hit song “Help Me Make It Through the Night,” and spent three weeks there. That song won her a CMA Award for Single of the Year, as well as a Grammy for Best New Country Song.
- 1989: Alabama released their single, “If I Had You,” a song that would spend one week at number one and 13 weeks on the country charts.
Cultural Milestones
Important cultural events from Feb. 13 have included:
- 1919: Tennessee Ernie Ford was born. He went on to release the song “Sixteen Tons,” in 1955, which sold four million copies.
- 2002: Singer and songwriter Waylon Jennings died after a battle with diabetes. He released a number of duets with Willie Nelson and as also a member of The Highwaymen with Willie Nelson, Kris Kristofferson, and Johnny Cash.
- 2005: Tim McGraw won a Grammy Award for Best Male Country Vocal Performance for the song “Live Like You Were Dying.”
- 2011: Lady Antebellum won five Grammy Awards for their hit “Need You Now”, including Record and Song of the Year, Best Country Duo or Group, Best Country Song, and Best Country Album
- 2011: President Barack Obama awarded the National Medal of Art to singer/songwriter Mel Tillis in an East Room ceremony at the White House.
Notable Recordings and Performances
Feb. 13 has seen some major performances:
- 1947: Hank Williams recorded “My Love for You (Has Turned to Hate)” in Nashville. The track became his third single for Sterling Records in April 1947.
- 2021: Ashley McBryde performed live at the Grand Ole Opry as part of its 95th-anniversary celebration
Feb. 13 has been a milestone day in country music. Throughout history, it’s seen major accomplishments and unforgettable moments. Have a listen to these chart-topping hits and keep an eye out out for upcoming releases set to make country music history.
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