This Day in Country History: February 28
Feb. 28 is a significant date in country music history. It has witnessed breakthrough hits and memorable performances, from Eddie Rabbitt’s crossover success in the 1980s to The Band Perry’s multi-platinum achievements and iconic Grammy wins. It has also served as a day to honor remarkable artists, from Patsy Cline’s final TV appearance to Rhonda Vincent’s induction into the Grand Ole Opry.
Breakthrough Hits and Milestones
Here are some breakthrough country hits and milestones from Feb. 28:
- 1981: Country singer Eddie Rabbitt had a crossover on the Pop chart with his No. 1 “I Love a Rainy Night.” He wrote the Elvis Presley smash “Kentucky Rain” before reaching No. 5 with “Drivin’ My Life Away.”
- 2009: Kenny Chesney and Mac McAnally achieved No. 1 on the country charts with “Down the Road.” This duet version marked Chesney’s 16th and McAnally’s first No. 1 hit.
- 2020: Disney released the soundtrack for the film “Onward.” It features Brandi Carlile’s end theme, “Carried Me With You.”
Cultural Milestones
Here are some cultural milestones from Feb. 28 in history:
- 1927: Country musician Don Helms was born. He was a steel guitarist for Hank Williams’ Drifting Cowboys.
- 1940: Country singer-songwriter and guitarist Joe South was born. He wrote the 1971 Lynn Anderson hit “(I Never Promised You A) Rose Garden.”
- 1963: Patsy Cline made her final TV appearance on The Glenn Reeves Show. She sang “San Antonio Rose” and “I Fall To Pieces” before she passed away in a tragic plane crash five days later.
- 1976: The 18th Annual Grammy Awards were held. Country singers included Linda Ronstadt with “I Can’t Help It (If I’m Still in Love With You)” for Best Female Country Vocal Performance, Willie Nelson with “Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain” for Best Male Country Vocal Performance, Rita Coolidge and Kris Kristofferson with “Lover Please” for Best Country Vocal Performance by a Duo or Group, and Larry Butler and Chips Moman’s “(Hey Won’t You Play) Another Somebody Done Somebody Wrong Song,” performed by B. J. Thomas, for Best Country Song.
- 1977: Country singer Jason Aldean was born. He has six No. 1 singles, including “Why,” “She’s Country,” “Big Green Tractor,” “The Truth,” “Don’t You Wanna Stay” (a duet with Kelly Clarkson), and “Dirt Road Anthem.”
- 1984: Lee Greenwood won Best Male Country Vocal Performance for “I.O.U.,” and Anne Murray’s “A Little Good News” won Best Female Country Vocal Performance at the 26th Annual GRAMMY Awards.
- 1996: Vince Gill’s “Go Rest High on That Mountain” at the 38th Annual GRAMMY Awards won Best Male Country Vocal Performance.
- 2020: Jeannie Seely invited country and bluegrass singer Rhonda Vincent to join the Grand Ole Opry.
Notable Recordings and Performances
Here are some notable performances from Feb. 28:
- 2025: Clint Black performs live at the Warner Theatre in Erie, Pennsylvania.
- 2025: Reba McEntire performs live at the Florida Strawberry Festival in Plant City, Florida.
Feb. 28 has been a memorable day in country music. From celebrating major industry achievements to milestone recordings or live performances, this date highlights the impact of country music legends and rising stars.
