Today in Country Music History – July 8

On July 8th, a country music star was born, and one celebrated the birth of their first child. Another star had his biggest number one hit on the charts.

Toby Keith: An American Original is Born

On July 8, 1961, we were blessed with a true country music star. Toby Keith was born in Clinton, Oklahoma and became one of the most recognizable voices in country music. His debut single "Should’ve Been a Cowboy" climbed to No. 1 on the charts, and it was the most played country song in the 1990s. "Should’ve Been a Cowboy" alone received over three million plays on country radio. Toby was more than just a singer, he was a songwriter, producer, actor and proud patriot. In June of 2022, Toby announced that he was suffering from stomach cancer. On February 5, 2024, he passed away peacefully in his sleep at the age of 62. Toby's impact can still be felt by his music and fans who still toast with a red solo cup in his honor.

1973: Kris Kristofferson Hits #1 with "Why Me"

Fifty-one years ago today, Kris Kristofferson was number 1 on the Billboard Country chart with "Why Me". It was one of the more personal songs that stands apart for its weight. "Why Me" was from Kristofferson's Jesus Was a Capricorn record, and featured vocals from his soon-to-be wife, Rita Coolidge, along with a young Larry Gatlin providing harmony. For a writer like Kristofferson, who had countless credits writing and recording songs for other artists, "Why Me" ended up being his biggest single as a solo artist.

1992: Garth Brooks Becomes a Dad

On this day in 1992, Sandy Mahl, Garth Brooks' first wife, gave birth to their first child, Taylor Mayne Pearl Brooks. Garth met Sandy while he working as a bouncer in 1986. He went from keeping the bar door shut to becoming a legend in country music history.

Whether it be the birth of an iconic star, a number one hit, or a life changing moment off stage, July 8th has been a monumental day in country music history.