Virginia Wynette Pugh was born in Tremont, Mississippi on May 5, 1942.
Her talent would take her straight to the top of the country music world, and she would also go on to marry one of the biggest country stars, George Jones -- earning her the name of “First Lady of Country Music.”
Even though many of her songs dealt with loneliness, relationships, and divorce, alongside Loretta Lynn and Dolly Parton, Wynette would go on to define the role of women in country music. She went on to become one of the best-known artists, as well as the biggest-selling female artists.
Sadly in 1998, Wynette passed away after a long run of health issues, addiction struggles, and major medical operations. She was 55.
In celebration of her birthday and to honor her legacy, here are four of our favorite songs.
“Apartment No. 9"
Originally recorded by Bobby Austin in 1966, this song was written by Fern Foley, Fuzzy Owen, and country music outlaw Johnny Paycheck. It did not have much commercial success, as it only peaked at no. 44. However, many critics and fans list this song near the top of her discography.
“Golden Ring” with George Jones
Released in 1976, one year after Wynette and Jones divorced, “Golden Ring” was the single and title track of their duet album. It shot straight to the no. 1 spot on the Billboard charts.
“D-I-V-O-R-C-E”
“D-I-V-O-R-C-E” was released in May of 1968. It went on to hit the no. 1 spot and earned her a Grammy nomination for “Best Country Vocal Performance, Female.”
“Stand By Your Man”
This song is probably her most iconic. Wynette actually co-wrote this song with Billy Sherrill. It was the title track and first single off of her 1968 album Stand By Your Man. It would become her most successful record. It even made the top spot of CMT’s “Top 100 Country Music Songs.”
Related:
Top 10 women in country music history
Top 10 country music artists who shaped the genre, part 1
