Country History X

This topic was also explored in Country History X Episode #6, originally published in May of 2021. Around the release of the "Cocaine Bear" feature film, new revelations came to light. This episode clears up continued previous misconceptions with new reporting.

When Johnny Cash was just 12, the gruesome death of his older brother and hero Jack significantly affected his life, turning the young boy into The Man in Black, shaping his approach to music, and fueling his addictions through guilt.

Conway Twitty had forty #1 songs in country music, more than anyone but George Strait. He was one of the most successful country artists in history. In his era, he was like the Elvis of country. So why don't you hear as much about him as you do other big stars? One major reason is a bitter estate dispute that saw his assets and his iconic "Twitty City" sold off.

Gary Stewart is one of the most underrated performers, singers, and songwriters in country music history. When his wife and songwriting partner Mary Lou passed away, Gary Stewart couldn't carry on, making for one of the most heartbreaking love stories in country music history.

Merle Haggard was one of country music's most famous former convicts, though most of his crimes were petty. The reason he landed in the  notorious San Quentin Prison was due to how many times he escaped from smaller facilities and local jails. But did he really escape 17 times as is claimed?

In 1993, Garth Brooks and the Super Bowl would clash. It was like King  Kong vs. Godzilla, with these two titans of American culture squaring off for all time. And ultimately, one side had to win.

There is only one artist in this history of country music whose singing is so revered, he's referred to simply as "The Voice." But the career of Vern Gosdin also may contain one of the most sinister secrets in the history of country music. Did Vern Gosdin really contract two men to murder his producer Gary S. Paxton? 

Could it be that the most important and influential bloodline in country music actually has a lost branch? Meanwhile, a 4th generation of performers has emerged to keep the bloodline going. 

A story of courage and character, and how a split second decision by country legend Marty Robbins on the racetrack forever changed the destiny of numerous people who would go on to help shape American culture.

Arguably the most important artifact in country music---and most certainly the most valuable one---is not an instrument as one might assume. Instead it is a work of art, and one that holds special importance, has an incredible story, and was never officially finished.