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: Kellie Pickler Signs Her First Record Deal
On July 17, 2006, Pickler signed her first record deal, with BNA Records.
10 Years Ago: Florida Georgia Line Sign With Republic Nashville
On July 16, 2012, Florida Georgia Line signed their first major-label record deal, with Republic Nashville.
36 Years Ago: Dollywood Opens in Pigeon Forge, Tenn.
On July 16, 1986, Parton opened her theme park, Dollywood, in Pigeon Forge, Tenn.
65 Years Ago: The Everly Brothers Earn First No. 1 Single With ‘Bye Bye Love’
On July 15, 1957, the Everly Brothers kicked off their music career with a No. 1 hit, "Bye Bye Love."
33 Years Ago: Garth Brooks Hits No. 1 With ‘The Dance’
On July 14, 1990, Brooks earned a No. 1 hit with his single "The Dance," from his debut self-titled album.
22 Years Ago: Lee Ann Womack Hits No. 1 With ‘I Hope You Dance’
On July 8, 2000, Womack's single "I Hope You Dance" landed at the top of the charts.
32 Years Ago: Trisha Yearwood Releases Her Debut Album
On July 2, 1991, Yearwood released her self-titled debut album.
21 Years Ago: The Chicks’ ‘Fly’ Certified Diamond
On June 25, 2002, the Chicks achieved a career milestone that only a few country artists have.
17 Years Ago: Taylor Swift’s ‘Tim McGraw’ Is Released
On June 19, 2006, Swift's debut single, "Tim McGraw," was released.
40 Years Ago: Willie Nelson’s ‘Always on My Mind’ Hits No. 1
On May 8, 1982, Nelson's version of "Always on My Mind" hit No. 1 on the charts.
46 Years Ago: Johnny Cash Receives Honorary Doctorate Degree
On May 8, 1976, "the Man in Black" received an honorary doctorate degree from National University in San Diego, Calif.
15 Years Ago: Carrie Underwood Graduates From Northeastern State University
On May 6, 2006, Underwood graduated from Northeastern State University, one year after winning 'American Idol'.