Today In Country History-Garth Plays Ball, Paycheck Dies

The Music and Memories of February 19

The Headlines

2003- Johnny Paycheck dies after a battle with emphysema.  It's reported that the "Take This Job And Shove It" star dies bankrupt.  George Jones pays for a proper funeral for his old outlaw friend.

2000- Garth Brooks signs a contract to join the New York Mets during spring training in Florida. The Mets are one of the many sports teams that contribute to Garth's "Touch 'Em All Foundation For Kids."  Athletes make donations based on their performance of goals, wins and personal accomplishments in their sport.

1998- Grandpa Jones dies.  A regular on the Grand Ole Opry and Hee Haw, he only scores a couple radio hits, "Mountain Dew" and "Eight More Miles to Louisville."  However he is a beloved personality in Country Music and is eventually inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame.

1974- Dolly Parton announces she's ending her duet partnership with Porter Wagoner.  Dolly creatively tells Porter by writing "I Will Always Love You."

1969- Elvis Presley records "Kentucky Rain."   The song is penned by an upcoming songwriter/artists named Eddie Rabbitt.  Furthermore, the single features another new artist by the name of Ronnie Milsap on backing vocals and piano.  The song and it's arrangement, inspires Ronnie to record his own Rainy song, "Smoky Mountain Rain."

The #1 Hits

1983- Faking Love- T.G. Sheppard and Karen Brooks

1977- Moody Blue- Elvis Presley

1974- It's Four In The Morning- Faron Young

1966- Waitin' In Your Welfare Line- Buck Owens