Short Summary
Kitty Wells was an influential American country music singer, often hailed as the "Queen of Country Music." She gained fame with her groundbreaking hit "It Wasn't God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels," which challenged the male-dominated norms of the genre. Wells's career spanned several decades, during which she became a trailblazer for women in country music. Her contributions to the industry paved the way for future generations of female artists.
Early Life & Education
Born Ellen Muriel Deason on August 30, 1919, in Nashville, Tennessee, Kitty Wells grew up in a musical family. Her father, Charles Cary Deason, was a brakeman for the Tennessee Central Railroad and played the banjo, while her mother, Myrtle, played the guitar. Wells was raised in a nurturing environment that fostered her love of music. Although she did not receive formal musical education, she learned to play the guitar from her father. Her early influences included the popular country and gospel music of the time, which shaped her unique sound and style.
Career Highlights
Kitty Wells began her professional career in the 1940s, performing with her husband Johnnie Wright's band. Her breakthrough came in 1952 with the release of "It Wasn't God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels." This song became the first by a female country artist to reach number one on the Billboard country charts. Wells continued to produce hits throughout the 1950s and 1960s, solidifying her status as a leading female figure in country music. She remained a popular performer and recording artist for several decades, contributing significantly to the genre's evolution.
Major Achievements
- First female country artist to have a number-one hit on the Billboard charts with "It Wasn't God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels."
- Inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1976, recognizing her contributions to the industry.
- Recipient of a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 1991, honoring her enduring impact on music.
- First female country singer to headline her own tour, breaking gender barriers in the industry.
- Pioneered a path for future generations of female country music artists.
Famous Quotes
- "I never really thought about being a pioneer. I just sang because I loved it."
- "I'm not a person that rebels against anything, except being told that I can't do something."
Interesting Facts
- Kitty Wells was married to fellow country musician Johnnie Wright for over 70 years.
- She was the first female country artist to sell a million records.
- Wells was known for her modest stage presence, often performing in simple dresses.
- Her stage name, "Kitty Wells," was inspired by a 19th-century folk song.
- She retired from touring in 2000 but remained a beloved figure in country music.
Legacy / Influence
Kitty Wells's legacy endures as a trailblazer for women in country music. Her success challenged the male-dominated industry and opened doors for future female artists. She demonstrated that women could achieve commercial success and artistic recognition in country music. Wells's influence is evident in the careers of artists like Loretta Lynn, Dolly Parton, and many others who followed in her footsteps.
FAQ
Q: Why is Kitty Wells famous?
A: She is famous for being the "Queen of Country Music" and for her groundbreaking song "It Wasn't God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels."
Q: What was Kitty Wells's real name?
A: Her real name was Ellen Muriel Deason.
Q: When was Kitty Wells inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame?
A: She was inducted in 1976.
Q: Did Kitty Wells write her own songs?
A: While she performed many songs written by others, she did write some of her own material.
