This Day in Country History: May 12
May 12 marks a significant day in country music history. One of the biggest highlights was country music legend and influencer Blake Shelton receiving his star on the Hollywood Walk…
NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE – FEBRUARY 25: (EDITORIAL USE ONLY) Thomas Rhett speaks onstage at the 11th Annual CMA Triple Play Awards at Marathon Music Works on February 25, 2020 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Jason Kempin/Getty Images)
May 12 marks a significant day in country music history. One of the biggest highlights was country music legend and influencer Blake Shelton receiving his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, with support from his wife, stepchildren, family, and fellow The Voice judge and coach, Adam Levine. This day also saw winners at the 58th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards and fun-in-the-sun country music festivals.
Breakthrough Hits and Milestones
Milestones in the country music world for May 12 include:
- 2020: Country icon Thomas Rhett received Gold certification from the Recording Industry Association of America for his album Center Point Road. It included the hit songs "Don't Threaten Me With a Good Time" and "Look What God Gave Her."
- 2023: At the 58th Annual ACM Awards, Chris Stapleton won Entertainer of the Year, Lainey Wilson was named Female Artist of the Year, and Morgan Wallen received the Male Artist of the Year award.
- 2023: Other winners at the ACM Awards included Brothers Osborne for Duo of the Year, Old Dominion for Group of the Year, and Zach Bryan for New Male Artist of the Year.
Cultural Milestones
On May 12, one country music star established a unique business partnership, and other legends took to the stage to entertain and support U.S. troops and honor their family members:
- 2014: For something different, country music legend Blake Shelton partnered with Pizza Hut to introduce a new line of barbecue pizzas in three distinct flavors: Blake's Smokehouse BBQ, Hawaiian BBQ, and Honey BBQ Chicken.
- 2016: Country singer Trace Adkins received the Dwight D. Eisenhower Award for being an "exceptional leader and advocate" for service members. The country music star is a staunch supporter of U.S. troops and has participated in 12 USO tours globally.
- 2023: Modern country music icon and legend, Blake Shelton, received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. His entire family, including his sister, mother, wife (Gwen Stefani), and three stepsons, were in attendance as he dedicated the ceremony to his late brother, Richie Shelton.
Notable Recordings and Performances
Fans enjoyed dancing and singing their favorite country songs at the following country music festivals on May 12:
- 2024: The Bear Shadow Music Festival in Highlands, North Carolina, had headliners North Mississippi Allstars, The Record Company, and J.J. Grey. Fans also enjoyed seeing Grace Bowers and American Aquarium perform.
- 2024: Headliners at the Big As Texas outdoor country music festival in Conroe, Texas, included Dierks Bentley, Midland, and Morgan Wade. Other country music stars at the exceptional event included Anne Wilson, 49 Winchester, and Braxtin Keith.
Industry Changes and Challenges
From births and deaths, May 12 saw several changes in the country music industry:
- 2016: Country music singer/songwriter Glenn Martin died on May 12. The legendary artist is known for writing smash hits for Merle Haggard, George Jones, and Charley Pride.
- 2019: The "Tennessee Whiskey" singer Chris Stapleton and his wife, Morgane, welcomed their fifth child one year after having twins.
Historically, May 12 has been a busy day in the country music industry, with outstanding performances, big hits, and industry challenges.
