Subscribe | UPI Odd Newsletter Subscribe TODAY IN COUNTRY MUSIC HISTORY (Monday, April 28) Advertisement Charlie Rich's "Behind Closed Doors" goes to No. 1, 1973. Billie Jo Spears' "Blanket On The Ground" hits No. 1, 1975. The Judds' first No. 1 single "Mama He's Crazy" is charted, 1984. Lorrie Morgan's No. 1 single "I Didn't Know My Own Strength" charted, 1995. John Michael Montgomery's "Life's a Dance" album goes gold, 1993. Faith Hill and Tim McGraw release their first duet "It's Your Love," 1997. MUSIC AND MORE BUSH REACTS TO DIXIE CHICKS' COMMENT In his first public comment about the Dixie Chicks controversy, President Bush says they can say whatever they want -- but must be prepared for the consequences. "They shouldn't have their feelings hurt just because some people don't want to buy their records when they speak out," Bush told NBC's Tom Brokaw. "You know, freedom is a two-way street." Chicks lead singer Natalie Maines touched off a firestorm of criticism after saying at a concert in London March 10 that she was ashamed Bush is from the trio's home state of Texas. Advertisement "But I ... don't really care what the Dixie Chicks said. I want to do what I think is right for the American people," Bush said, "and if some singers or Hollywood stars feel like speaking out, that's fine." The group performs in Greenville, S.C., Thursday night in their first U.S. concert since Maines' remark. TRAVIS TRITT HONORED BY VETS Travis Tritt has been honored with a public service award from the Department of Veterans Affairs for his work with the nation's armed forces. "We are truly grateful for Travis Tritt's dedication to the men and women who serve and have served in uniform," said Veterans Affairs Secretary Anthony Principi. Tritt recently visited U.S. troops as they prepared to ship out to Iraq, served as a spokesman for the Disabled American Veterans from 1993 to 1996 and was awarded the VA Secretary's Award in 1993, the VA said in a news release. THREE 'NASHVILLE STAR' HOPEFULS LEFT "Nashville Star" is in the home stretch of its country music talent competition after songstress Brandi Gibson was eliminated to leave the final three contestants. One of them -- Buddy Jewell, Miranda Lambert or John Arthur Martinez -- will emerge in the series finale Saturday night on USA Network. One will be cut at the top of the telecast. Advertisement Trace Adkins, Jo Dee Messina, Wynonna and Clint Black -- who's producing the winner's album -- will perform in the final show before the winner is crowned. The last one standing wins a record deal with Sony Nashville.
