Rich, Milsap, Newton-John top country singers of the year
By CHRISTOPHER CABOT NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP)- Charlie Rich, the Silver Fox of country music, was named entertainer of the year by the Country Music Association on Monday night.
Blind Ronnie, Milsap and British-born Australian Olivia Newton-John were named top male and female vocalists.
In accepting the entertainer of the year award, Ilich seemed at a loss for words, He read a note, written by his wife, Margaret Ann: “If you have a dream, hang on to it. Because dreams do come true.” Itich also won the album-of-the year award for “Very Special Love Song”
Milsap, a newcomer to is country music stardom, best known for his recording “Please Don’t Tell Me How the Story Ends.” He accepted the award, presented jointly by Lynn Anderson and Anne Murray, with a big smile, saying “I love you all.”
Miss Newton-John accepted the award from Londen on a video-taped message. Her hit songs include “If You Love Me, Let Me Know.”
Others nominated for top male vocalist were Rich, Merle Haggard, Wayon Jennings and Cal Smith. Female vocalist were Loretta Lynn, Miss Murray, Dolly Parton and Tanya Tucker.