Alabama and David Lee Murphy

David Lee Murphy, born in Southern Illinois, is a renowned country songwriter and singer, best known for "Dust On The Bottle." Influenced by Waylon Jennings and Lynyrd Skynyrd, he moved to Nashville, writing for stars like Kenny Chesney and Luke Bryan, and honing his craft in local venues.

Alabama, formed by cousins Randy Owen, Teddy Gentry, and Jeff Cook, revived country bands in the late '70s with a blend of country and rock. The band, rooted in Alabama, gained fame with hits like "Tennessee River" and achieved 27 number-one singles in the '80s. They secured multiple awards and had seven multi-platinum albums. Alabama's signature sound and remarkable success, particularly with their seamless harmonies and crossover appeal, set a high bar in country music. Their influence continues, even after multiple reunions and the passing of band member Jeff Cook.