The Boot Staff

Country music and patriotism have always gone hand in hand.

On June 8, 1974, Parton's "I Will Always Love You," from her 'Jolene' album, soared to the top of the charts.

On May 16, 1979, "the Hag" recorded "Workin' Man Blues", from his 'A Portrait of Merle Haggard' album.

May they rest in peace ...

"Everyone hates their ex-boyfriend or ex-girlfriend ... That's what it's about ..."

Jason Aldean once called Nashville "Hollywood with a touch of twang," and rocker Shawn Mullins deemed Los Angeles "kind of like Nashville with a tan," so it's only natural that the stars from each city would intermingle -- personally and professionally.

On April 13, 1959, Jones earned his first No. 1 single.

Do you agree?

On March 29, 1960, Tootsie's Orchid Lounge opened in Nashville, Tenn.

On March 14, 1970, Haggard scored his ninth No. 1 hit.