This Day in Country History: January 18
Jan. 18 has witnessed many notable moments in country music, including legendary artists receiving awards, being nominated for the Songwriters’ Hall of Fame, and raising money for charities. This day…
Jan. 18 has witnessed many notable moments in country music, including legendary artists receiving awards, being nominated for the Songwriters' Hall of Fame, and raising money for charities. This day saw several artists receive record certifications, and Ray Stevens opened his long-awaited showroom and venue in 2018. Continue reading to learn more about this day in country music history.
Breakthrough Hits and Milestones
From the People's Choice Awards to the opening of a new Nashville venue, these milestones took place on Jan. 18:
- 2017: At the People's Choice Awards, Blake Shelton won Favorite Male Country Artist and Favorite Album for If I'm Honest. Carrie Underwood achieved the Favorite Female Country Artist award, and Little Big Town won Favorite Country Group.
- 2018: Ray Stevens opened his new Nashville venue, CabaRay, a 500-seat dinner and 200-seat cocktail spot. This mixed-venue showroom pays homage to some of Nashville's influential singers and producers.
Cultural Milestones
There were many artists helping others and being honored on Jan. 18, including:
- 2020: Lindsay Ell and Neal McCoy were part of the 50th Annual West Texas Rehab Telethon, which was held at the Abilene Convention Center and featured live music and auction items. The proceeds went to help support the West Texas Rehabilitation Center's mission to help people with addiction issues, regardless of their financial situation.
- 2023: Songwriter Liz Rose, who wrote many hits, including Little Big Town's "Girl Crush" and Taylor Swift's "You Belong With Me," was nominated for induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame. Jeff Lynne, Sade, Snoop Dogg, and Gloria Estefan were also nominated.
Notable Recordings and Performances
Big tours and record certifications happened on Jan. 18:
- 2013: The legendary George Strait began his The Cowboy Rides Away Tour at United Spirit Arena in Lubbock, Texas. Martina McBride was his special guest on this 21-stop tour.
- 2018: Midland's single "Drinkin' Problem" received a Platinum certification from the Recording Industry Association of America. Russell Dickerson's "Yours" also received a Platinum certification.
Industry Changes and Challenges
These industry changes occurred on Jan. 18:
- 2019: Famed studio guitarist Reggie Young died at the age of 82. Young spent decades backing artists such as Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, Elvis Presley, and Dusty Springfield. He was also part of the house band at Memphis' Hi Records and American Studios.
- 2021: The former American Idol finalist Gabby Barrett and her husband, Cade Foehner, welcomed a baby girl named Baylah May Foehner. The couple first met as competitors on American Idol and got married in 2019.
The world said goodbye to the legendary Reggie Young and welcomed a baby to the country music industry on Jan. 18. Carrie Underwood won big at the People's Choice Awards, and fans were thrilled to see Martina McBride with George Strait during his first tour stop, further proving the significance of this day in country music history.
