mindy mccready

People with this sign aren't afraid to break the mold!

Some of these songs bring the artist's career full-circle, while others tell a haunting story of a life cut short.

Country music and drinking have always had an uncomfortably close relationship.

Legends such as Hank Williams Jr., Randy Travis and George Jones, among others, have found themselves in trouble with the law

They have known the pain they sing about.

It's more tragic when it's unexpected, as is the case with these country singers who died before their time.

Women have ruled the country charts for decades by singing about far more than just love and heartache.

Tragedy can strike anyone, from a neighbor next door to family members to some of the biggest superstars in the world.

May they rest in peace ...

2013 was full of tragedy, surprises and celebration -- it seemed a new jaw-dropping news event took place just about every month in country music. Five events make the final cut as nominees for the Headline of the Year Award at the 2014 Taste of Country Awards. Which do you think should win?

Fellow stars, friends and family turned out to celebrate the life of singer Mindy McCready at a memorial service in Nashville on Wednesday (March 6). McCready died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound last month at the age of 37.

Country star Mindy McCready was laid to rest during a service in her hometown of Fort Myers, Fla. on Tuesday (Feb. 26), nine days after the troubled singer took her own life with a single gunshot wound to the head.