The Boot Staff

The connection between a country music legend and the football icon is a surprising one.

Yes, country stars are fun to follow on Instagram -- but so are their dogs!

Country music is filled with songs proclaiming love and devotion to the United States, but for many artists, their patriotism runs much deeper.

Country legend Williams was born on Sept. 17, 1923.

On Sept. 12, 2003, Cash passed away after suffering complications from diabetes.

On Sept. 12, 1994, Jones had triple bypass surgery, on his 63rd birthday, at Baptist Hospital in Nashville, Tenn.

On Sept. 10, 1994, Yearwood's single "XXX's and OOO's (An American Girl)" became her second No. 1 hit.

Sept. 9, 1989, was a bittersweet day for friends and family of the late Whitley.

On Sept. 1, 1979, Nelson and Russell hit the No. 1 spot with their remake of the Elvis Presley hit "Heartbreak Hotel."

On Aug. 31, 1974, Jones earned a No. 1 hit with his song "The Grand Tour," which was the title track of his 41st studio album.

On Aug. 23, 2003, Adkins was officially inducted into the Grand Ole Opry.

On Aug. 5, 1989, Parton soared to the top of the charts with her single "Why'd You Come in Here Lookin' Like That."