Introduction
Conway Twitty Honored with 1988 Living Legend Award at Music City News Awards
At the 1988 Music City News Awards, Conway Twitty received the prestigious Living Legend Award, a special honor reserved for artists whose careers span 25 years or more. This award recognizes not only longevity but the consistent impact an artist has had on the music world, and for Conway, it was a crowning achievement celebrating decades of success and influence.
The evening began with a heartfelt introduction by George Jones, last year’s recipient of the same award. He praised Conway for not only reaching the top of the charts but for maintaining his popularity year after year. “Tonight’s winner has that special magic,” Jones said, “the kind that has kept him beloved since the very beginning.” The audience was treated to a series of tributes that highlighted Conway’s unparalleled contributions to country music and his remarkable career.
Born to a riverboat captain along the winding Mississippi, Conway’s childhood mirrored the adventure and storytelling of a Mark Twain novel. From humble beginnings in a house surrounded by cotton fields to creating a welcoming home that celebrates fans and children alike, Conway has lived a life full of milestones and generosity. His home famously hosts an annual Christmas event, complete with Santa Claus Lane, keeping the spirit of the holidays alive for generations of children.
Even as a teenager, Conway showed early talent and ambition. Hosting his own radio show in his teen years and excelling in athletics, he attracted the attention of major league baseball scouts. Yet it was music that truly captured his heart. In 1956, carrying an Elvis Presley record changed the course of his life, propelling him to teen idol status. At the height of his rock ‘n’ roll fame, Conway transitioned to his true passion—country music—and the rest is history.
By 1970, Conway had teamed with Loretta Lynn, forming one of the most celebrated duets in country music history. Their partnership spanned decades, bringing countless hits and a deep friendship. Fellow artists praised Conway not just for his talent but for his professionalism, generosity, and ability to stay at the forefront of the industry.
Conway’s list of achievements is staggering: over 50 number-one records, more than 140 concerts annually, and an ability to continually pick and produce hits that resonate with fans. His dedication to the craft, combined with his work promoting youth sports and charitable causes, cements his legacy as a modern-day legend. The 1988 Living Legend Award celebrated not just past accomplishments but the promise that Conway Twitty’s best was still ahead.
The award presentation was met with a standing ovation. Conway, visibly moved, thanked his fans, family, and his mother, sharing a heartfelt moment with George Jones and the audience. With decades of hits behind him and an enduring passion for performance, Conway Twitty’s recognition as a Living Legend was both fitting and unforgettable.