Early Life and Education of Vince Gill: A Complete Timeline

How education and upbringing influenced the life of Vince Gill. A timeline of key moments.

Vince Gill is an acclaimed American singer, songwriter, and musician known for his contributions to both soft rock and country music. He gained initial recognition as the lead singer of Pure Prairie League from 1978 to 1982, performing lead vocals on their hit "Let Me Love You Tonight." After a stint with Rodney Crowell's band, Gill embarked on a solo country music career in 1984. While his early solo work with RCA Records Nashville yielded limited success, he achieved significant acclaim and has recorded with MCA Nashville since 1989.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

April 12, 1957: Vincent Gill's Birth

On April 12, 1957, Vincent Grant Gill was born. He is an American singer, songwriter, and musician.

April 1980: Marriage to Janis Oliver

In April 1980, Vince Gill married singer Janis Oliver, who later joined the country duo Sweethearts of the Rodeo.

1989: Gill Starts Writing "Go Rest High on That Mountain"

In 1989, Vince Gill began writing "Go Rest High on That Mountain" as a tribute to Keith Whitley after his death, finishing it four years later upon the death of his half-brother, Bob Cohen.

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1993: Starts Vinny Pro-Celebrity Golf Invitational

In 1993, Vince Gill started a golf charity known as the Vinny Pro-Celebrity Golf Invitational, which raises money for children's golf in the state of Tennessee.

1995: Benefit concert for American Red Cross

In 1995, Vince Gill held a concert to benefit the American Red Cross following the Oklahoma City bombing.

1995: "Pretty Little Adriana" Inspiration

In 1995, Vince Gill was inspired to write "Pretty Little Adriana" after reading a news story about Adriana Dickerson, who was shot outside of a Nashville supermarket.

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1997: Divorce from Janis Oliver

In 1997, Vince Gill and Janis Oliver divorced, citing irreconcilable differences. Janis Oliver assumed custody of their daughter, Jenny.

1997: Success and Personal Loss in 1997

In 1997, Vince Gill's tour was highly profitable, but he canceled dates later in the year to take time off following the death of his father, Stan.

1999: Dating Amy Grant

In 1999, Vince Gill began dating contemporary Christian music singer Amy Grant following her divorce from Gary Chapman.

March 10, 2000: Marriage to Amy Grant

On March 10, 2000, Vince Gill married Amy Grant, a contemporary Christian music singer, following her divorce from Gary Chapman.

2003: Gill cites Merle Haggard as a main influence

In 2003, Vince Gill cited Merle Haggard as a major influence, praising his singing, phrasing, and poetic songwriting in an interview with Country Standard Time.