Kitty Wells, born Ellen Muriel Deason on August 30, 1919, in Nashville, Tennessee, is fondly remembered as the "Queen of Country Music." Her trailblazing career set the stage for female artists in a genre that was predominantly male at the time. Wells shattered the glass ceiling in 1952 with her hit "It Wasn't God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels," which became the first No. 1 Billboard country hit for a solo female artist. This song not only marked her breakthrough but also resonated with many women, highlighting the challenges they faced in society and in personal relationships.

Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, Kitty Wells consistently charted hits, becoming a fixture on the country music scene and influencing generations of female artists to come. Her discography includes notable releases like "The Decca Singles 1952-1958" and beloved albums such as "Dust On The Bible" and "The Country Music Hall Of Fame," the latter underlining her iconic status in the industry. Wells' pioneering spirit and heartfelt songs blazed a trail for women in country music, ensuring her legacy endures. In recognition of her groundbreaking contributions, Kitty Wells was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1976, cementing her place in music history before her passing on July 16, 2012.

Genres

Classic Country Pop

Nashville Sound

Traditional Country

Related Artists

Dolly Parton

Patsy Cline

Loretta Lynn

Tammy Wynette

Reba McEntire

Connie Smith

Skeeter Davis

June Carter Cash

Wanda Jackson

Johnny Cash

Dottie West

Shania Twain

Latest Release

Jingle Bells (As Heard In '9-1-1')

Kitty Wells

Single - Released December 1, 2023