I know that many young people do not know much about her today, but that is a shame. Kitty Wells, for many years the "queen of country music," opened many doors for woman and yet exhibited a truly gracious spirit and humble heart.
She was the first female to have a number one country hit, "It Wasn't God Who Made Honky-Tonk Angels," a 1952 single that she recorded (using the tune of Roy Acuff's spiritual "Great Speckled Bird") as an answer to a hit at the time from a man (Hank Thompson) that "thank(ed) God for honky-tonk angels." Her song hit a nerve and not only created a hit, but busted open the doors for women lead singers at a time when conventional wisdom said that women lead singers could not sell -- or headline a show.
She opened doors (and inspired) so many to follow, including Loretta Lynn, Patsy Cline, Dolly Parton, and others, including Wanda Jackson (who sand our own Teddy Berra's song, "Tears Will Be the Chaser for my Wine" in the CBJ).
Check out her story and some music today.
From the Hall of Fame: http://countrymusichalloffame.org/full-list-of-inductees/view/kitty-wells
