Gayle Thompson has been a daily contributor for The Boot since it began in 2008. In addition, she has written for Rolling Stone, Country Weekly, CBS Radio and several other outlets. Besides writing, she loves traveling, cooking, entertaining and anything else that involves her husband and little boy.
Gayle Thompson
16 Years Ago: Eric Church Makes His Grand Ole Opry Debut
On April 1, 2006, Church made his debut on the Grand Ole Opry.
55 Years Ago: The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum Opens
On April 1, 1967, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum opened in Nashville, Tenn.
Kenny Rogers’ Mother Gave Life-Changing Advice: ‘Always Be Happy Where You Are’
A piece of advice from his mom changed his entire life.
29 Years Ago: Travis Tritt Joins the Grand Ole Opry
On Feb. 29, 1992, Tritt became an official member of the Grand Ole Opry.
31 Years Ago: Vince Gill Wins Two Grammy Awards for ‘I Still Believe in You’
On Feb. 24, 1992, Gill won two Grammy Awards for his song "I Still Believe in You," which was the title track of his sixth album.
61 Years Ago: Garth Brooks Is Born in Tulsa, Okla.
Happy birthday, Garth!
47 Years Ago: Ronnie Milsap Inducted Into the Grand Ole Opry
He was just 33 years old.
LOOK: Remembering Little Jimmy Dickens’ Life and Legacy
Dickens may have been small in stature -- he was only 4 feet, 11 inches -- but his presence was larger than life.
23 Years Ago: LeAnn Rimes Performs for Pope John Paul II
On Nov. 25, 1999, Rimes performed for Pope John Paul II.
39 Years Ago: Hank Williams Jr.’s ‘All My Rowdy Friends (Have Settled Down)’ Hits No. 1
Chances are good that on Nov. 21, 1981, Williams Jr. didn't do much settling down.
47 Years Ago: Reba McEntire Signs Her First Recording Contract
On Nov. 11, 1975, McEntire's career as a country music singer officially began.