Wednesday, July 29, 2015

Grand Ole Opry 7/31 & 8/1

Summer rolls on not only here in Ohio but also in Nashville at the Grand Ole Opry. The schedule and line-ups are set for the two shows this weekend.

The Friday Night Opry and Saturday's Grand Ole Opry will feature the same four hosts each night, hosting the same segments. Larry Gatlin (without Steve and Rudy), Riders In The Sky, Bill Anderson and Vince Gill are the hosts. And I know I am repeating myself, but it is really nice to have Vince back at the Opry this weekend after missing last week.

As far as additional Opry members on the schedule, Mike Snider is set for both nights, while Friday night will feature Jeannie Seely, Bobby Osborne, and The Whites. Saturday has Connie Smith, Jesse McReynolds, and one of my favorites, Patty Loveless on the schedule. Most of us are Patty Loveless fans and it would be nice to see her on the Opry more often. And as an added treat, Vince and Patty get the last 30 minutes to themselves on Saturday night.

As far as guest artists this weekend, both nights will feature Striking Matches, while on Friday night they will be joined by The Henningsens, Craig Wayne Boyd and Watkins Family Hour, while on Saturday night Shelly Skidmore and Jimmy Wayne are on.

The name on the guest list this week is Watkins Family Hour. They are led by Sara and Sean Watkins who have been part of Nickel Creek. They are joined by an all-star cast of singers and musicians, with their debut album released last week. They have been featured on numerous shows including "CBS This Morning." They play bluegrass and music by Grateful Dead and Fleetwood Mac among others. But actually their style fits right in at the Opry.

Friday July 31
7:00: Larry Gatlin (host); The Henningens; Mike Snider
7:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Jeannie Seely; Striking Matches
Intermission
8:15: Bill Anderson (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Craig Wayne Boyd
8:45: Vince Gill (host); The Whites; Watkins Family Hour

Saturday August 1
7:00: Larry Gatlin (host); Shelly Skidmore; Mike Snider
7:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Jimmy Wayne; Connie Smith
Intermission
8:15: Bill Anderson (host); Jesse McReynolds; Striking Matches; Opry Square Dancers
8:45: Vince Gill (host); Patty Loveless

The host of this week's Ernest Tubb Midnight Jamboree will be T. Graham Brown. Just my opinion, but I thought that T. Graham would have made a nice addition to the Opry line-up this week.

And now, here is the posted Grand Ole Opry line-up from five years ago this weekend, July 30 & 31, 2010. The shows both nights were held at the Ryman Auditorium as the renovation of the Grand Ole Opry House continued.

Friday July 30
7:00: Jim Ed Brown (host); The Whites; Daryle Singletary
7:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); John Cowan; Jan Howard
Intermission
8:15: Jean Shepard (host); Jesse McReynolds; Restless Heart
8:45: Vince Gill (host); Connie Smith; The Isaacs

Saturday July 31
7:00: Jean Shepard (host); Jimmy C Newman; Daryle Singletary
7:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); Tim O'Brien
Intermission
8:15: Jeannie Seely (host); Jack Greene; Ray Stevens; Opry Square Dancers
8:45: Vince Gill (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; The Whites

Now from ten years ago, the weekend of July 29 & 30, 2005:

Friday July 29
7:30: Porter Wagoner (host); Mel McDaniel; Billy Walker; Susan Haynes
8:00: Jim Ed Brown (host); Connie Smith; Claire Lynch
8:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); The Whites; The Wrights
9:00: Bill Anderson (host); Jan Howard; The Vanderbilt Kennedy Music Camp Performers; Rebecca Lynn Howard
9:30: John Conlee (host); Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Patty Loveless

Saturday July 30
1st show
6:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); The Whites; Jimmy C Newman
7:00: Pam Tillis (host); Blake Shelton; Alan Jackson; The Wrights
8:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Jeannie Seely; Jim Ed Brown; Connie Smith; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Bill Anderson (host); Osborne Brothers; T. Graham Brown

2nd show
9:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jimmy C Newman; The Wrights
10:00: Porter Wagoner (host); The Whites; Jack Greene; Alan Jackson
10:30: Pam Tillis (host); Charlie Louvin; Jim Ed Brown; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Bill Anderson (host); Connie Smith; Blake Shelton
11:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Osborne Brothers; T. Graham Brown

An interesting name that shows up on this line-up and a few others from this time period is Susan Haynes, who seems to have disappeared. Susan was born in Atlanta, Georgia in 1972. She came to Nashville in 2005 and was signed to Epic Records. She released two singles with her best being, "Drinkin' In My Sunday Best" which went to just #51 on the country charts. By May 2006, her record deal was done and she has not appeared on the charts since. The Opry spotlighted her a few times but her career went nowhere.

For this week's featured line-up, it was 39 years ago this weekend, Saturday July 31, 1976 that former Grand Ole Opry member Don Williams performed on the Opry's Saturday night show for the first time since he became an Opry member. Don joined the Opry on April 23, 1976, which was a Friday night. His stay at the Opry was very short, with his final appearance coming on August 22, 1981. During his 5 years as an Opry member, he appeared just 9 times. And this was during the period of time when the Opry actually expected you to appear if you were a member.

Here is the running order from Saturday July 31, 1976, the first Saturday night performance for new Opry member Don Williams.

1st show
6:30: Mrs. Grissoms
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper (host): Big Midnight Special
Willis Brothers: Home on the Range
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper: Nobody's Darling But Mine

6:45: Rudy's
George Hamilton IV (host): Country Music In My Soul
Bill Carlisle: Too Old to Cut the Mustard
O.B. McClinton: Blanket on the Ground
George Hamilton IV: Early Morning Rain

7:00: Shoney's
Charlie Louvin (host) w/Pam Dickerson: Did You Ever
Billy Grammer: Detroit City
Justin Tubb: Cold Brown Bottle
Oswald: Mountain Dew
Charlie Louvin: Let's Put Our World Back Together/A Toast to Mama/Love Has to Die All By Itself/I Ain't Gonna Work Tomorrow/I Want a Happy Life
Billy Grammer: Gotta Travel On
Justin Tubb: Keep Me From Blowing Away

7:30: Standard Candy
Roy Drusky (host): Second Hand Rose
Bob Luman: Neither One of Us
Don Williams: You're My Best Friend/Turn Out the Lights and Love Me Tonight
Crook Brothers/Tennessee Travelers: Soldier's Joy
Bob Luman: A Satisfied Mind
Roy Drusky: I Really Don't Want to Know

8:00: Martha White
Lester Flatt (host) w/The Nashville Grass: Ain't Nobody Gonna Miss Me When I'm Gone
4 Guys: Top of the World
Melba Montgomery: Lonely Street
Jim Mundy: Never Met A Girl I Didn't Like
Paul Warren: Orange Blossom Special
4 Guys: The Morning Sun
Melba Montgomery: Don't Let the Good Times Fool You
Lester Flatt: Great Big Woman and A Little Biddy Bottle of Wine

8:30: Stephens
Hank Snow (host): Miller's Cave
Jeanne Pruett: Satin Sheets
Ronnie Milsap: I'm A Stand By My Woman Man/Day Dreams About Night Things
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Hickory Leaf
Jeanne Pruett: It Doesn't Hurt to Ask
Hank Snow: That's When He Dropped the World in My Hands

2nd show
9:30: Kellogg's
Charlie Louvin (host): Will You Visit Me on Sundays/What Are Those Things
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper: Where is America Going
Bill Carlisle: Business Man
Charlie Louvin: Poison Red Berries
O.B. McClinton: I'm the Other One
Oswald: Dobro Chimes
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper: Poor Ellen Smith

10:00: Fender
Roy Drusky (host): Fraulein
Willis Brothers: Ghost Riders in the Sky
Don Williams: I Recall a Gypsy Woman
Roy Drusky: Alone With You

10:15: Union 76
Billy Grammer (host): Under the Double Eagle
Melba Montgomery: Don't Keep Me Lonely Too Long
George Hamilton IV: Break My Mind
Billy Grammer: Somewhere My Love

10:30: Trailblazer
Lester Flatt (host)
Paul Warren: Black-Eyed Susie
Justin Tubb: Sweetwater Texas
Bob Luman: A Satisfied Mind
Lester Flatt: Mama Don't Allow It

10:45: Beech-Nut
4 Guys (host): Turn Your Radio On
Ronnie Milsap: What Goes on When the Sun Goes Down
Crook Brothers/Tennessee Travelers: Gray Eagle
4 Guys: The Morning Sun

11:00: Coca-Cola
Hank Snow (host): Hello Love
Jim Mundy: Never Met A Girl I Didn't Like
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Hickory Leaf
Hank Snow: Old Doc Brown
Jim Mundy: The River's Too Wide
Kirk McGee: The End of Forever
Hank Snow: Traveling Blues

11:30: Elm Hill
Marty Robbins (host): El Paso City
Jeanne Pruett: Satin Sheets/Break My Mind
Ronnie Robbins: Good Hearted Woman/The Bitter They Are
Marty Robbins; Cool Water/Love Me/Don't Worry/El Paso

Again, some interesting names on the Opry that night including Ronnie Milsap and Melba Montgomery. Those are two names that everyone should be familiar with. But what about Jim Mundy and O.B. McClinton?

Jim Mundy was born James White on February 8, 1934. His recording career, much of it with ABC Records, lasted from 1973 to 1979. He ended up with 10 singles that hit the charts, with the best being "The River's Too Wide," which was his first release and went to #13. He also was a commercial jingle singer and did work for Pillsbury, Union 76, Coca Cola and Miller Brewing. As far as I know, he is still alive, although I cannot confirm it as he kind of disappeared 1980.

O.B. McClinton is a name that should be familiar to many country music fans. He was born on April 25, 1940 and grew up in the Memphis, Tennessee area. His first love was R&B music but he was unable to get a record contract. He then tried country and was one of the first entertainers to market their album on television. His first chart success was in 1964 and he stayed on the charts until he died in 1987. "Don't Let the Green Grass Fool You" was his biggest success, coming in at #37 on the carts. He nicknamed himself the "Chocolate Cowboy" which was also the title of one of his later albums. O.B. passed away from cancer on September 23, 1987.

Next weekend will be a big one at the Opry as on Saturday night, Connie Smith will be honored for 50 years as a member of the Grand Ole Opry. To mark the occasion, there will be two shows on Saturday night that will feature, in addition to Connie, Marty Stuart, Alison Krauss, The Cox Family, Mel Tillis and many more. It should be a great night at the Opry.

As far as the weekend, enjoy the Opry!!















Monday, July 27, 2015

Mid-Week Opry Shows 7/28 & 7/29

Here are the line-ups for this week's mid-week Opry shows:

Tuesday July 28
7:00: Terri Clark; Riders In The Sky
7:30: Mandy Barnett; David Nail
Intermission
8:15: The Whites; Chris Janson
8:45: Love and Theft; Larry Gatlin & The Gatlin Brothers

Wednesday July 29
7:00: John Conlee; Sarah Darling
7:30: Craig Campbell; Restless Heart
Intermission
8:15: Jeannie Seely; Tracy Lawrence
8:45: Love and Theft; Larry Gatlin & The Gatlin Brothers

Two nice shows this week.


Thursday, July 23, 2015

Grand Ole Opry 7/24 & 7/25

The Grand Ole Opry has posted the line-ups for the four shows this weekend. Yes, there will be two shows each on Friday and Saturday night. Why you ask? Because Grand Ole Opry member Carrie Underwood will be appearing both nights. I, along with others, have mentioned before how Carrie supports the Opry and has always found the time to fulfill her commitment to the show. She sets an example for a few of the other newer Opry members.

Joining Carrie both nights will be Opry members Jeannie Seely, The Whites, Connie Smith and Ricky Skaggs. In fact, these four will be the only segment hosts for this weekend. Joining them on Friday night will be Mike Snider and Jesse McReynolds, while Bobby Osborne will join them on Saturday night. Those are the only Opry members scheduled this weekend.

As far as guest artists, Friday night will feature Carly Pearce, Kristian Bush, Jackie Lee and Point of Grace. All have appeared on the Opry previously. Saturday night will have Ashley Clark, Logan Brill, Exile and Charlie Worsham guesting. Charlie is one of the great young talents in country music. Logan Brill is one of the new young females trying to make her mark in country music and Ashley Clark is described as a singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist.

What it all adds up to is 11 artists for Friday night and just 10 for Saturday night, with the same artists performing on both shows each of the individual nights.

Friday July 24
1st show
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Carly Pearce; Mike Snider
7:30: The Whites (host); Jesse McReynolds; Kristian Bush
8:00: Ricky Skaggs (host); Jackie Lee; Point of Grace
8:30: Connie Smith (host); Carrie Underwood

2nd show
9:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Carly Pearce; Mike Snider
10:00: Connie Smith (host); Carrie Underwood
10:30: The Whites (host); Jesse McReynolds; Kristian Bush
11:00: Ricky Skaggs (host); Jackie Lee; Point of Grace

Saturday July 25
1st show
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Ashley Clark; Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press
7:30: The Whites (host); Logan Brill; Exile
8:00: Ricky Skaggs (host); Charlie Worsham; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Connie Smith (host); Carrie Underwood

2nd show
9:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Ashley Clark; Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press
10:00: Connie Smith (host); Carrie Underwood
10:30: The Whites (host); Charlie Worsham; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Ricky Skaggs (host); Logan Brill; Exile

Do you notice who is missing this weekend? Yes, that is right. Vince Gill is not at the Opry this weekend. I guess he is allowed time off from the Opry after all the time he has put in. But Vince fans should not worry. He will be back.

And now, here is the posted Grand Ole Opry line-up from five years ago, the weekend of July 23 & 24, 2010. Both nights were held at the Ryman Auditorium as the renovation continued at the Grand Ole Opry House.

Friday July 23
7:00: John Conlee (host); Jeannie Seely; Randy Montana
7:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jimmy C Newman; Cherryholmes
Intermission
8:15: Mike Snider (host); Jan Howard; Jack Greene; Chuck Mead
8:45: Vince Gill (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Connie Smith

Saturday July 24
7:00: Jimmy Dickens (host); John Conlee; Chuck Mead
7:30: Mike Snider (host); Jim Ed Brown; Heidi Newfield
Intermission
8:15: Marty Stuart (host); Stonewall Jackson; Connie Smith; Opry Square Dancers
8:45: Vince Gill (host); Jean Shepard; Patty Loveless

And from ten years ago, the weekend of July 22 & 23, 2005

Friday July 22
7:30: Porter Wagoner (host); Connie Smith; Blue Highway; Lorrie Morgan
8:00: Mike Snider (host); Billy Walker; Jean Shepard; Ryan Shupe & The Rubber Band
8:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Mel McDaniel; The Whites; Susan Haynes
9:00: Bill Anderson (host); Osborne Brothers; John Conlee; George Canyon
9:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Jimmy C Newman; Jim Ed Brown; Joe Diffie

Saturday July 23
1st show
6:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Connie Smith; The Whites; BeauSoleil
7:00: Lorrie Morgan (host); Asleep At The Wheel; Susan Haynes; Lee Greenwood
8:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Jimmy C Newman; Jean Shepard; Mike Snider; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Bill Anderson (host); Jeannie Seely; John Conlee; Sam Bush

2nd show
9:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Mike Snider; Susan Haynes
10:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Jan Howard; Jim Ed Brown; Asleep At The Wheel
10:30: Lorrie Morgan (host); Osborne Brothers; Mel McDaniel; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Bill Anderson (host); John Conlee; Jean Shepard; Lee Greenwood
11:30: Jeannie Seely (host); BeauSoleil; Sam Bush

For this week's look back into Opry history, I have two line-ups to offer. The first is from Saturday July 24, 1971 when future Country Music Hall of Fame member Patsy Montana made her first ever appearance on the Opry.

Ruby Rose Blevins, who became known as Patsy Montana, was born on October 30, 1908. She was known as a singer, songwriter and actress, with her signature song being, "I Want to Be a Cowboy's Sweetheart." The song was released in 1935 became the first million selling song by a country female artist. In the 1930s, Patsy, along with the group called The Prairie Ramblers, were regulars in the WLS National Barn Dance. She remained with the show into the 1950s after which she went into semi-retirement. She attempted a comeback in the early 1960s with limited success. Patsy passed away on May 3, 1996, the same year that she was elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame.

Here is the running order of the Grand Ole Opry from Saturday July 24, 1971, the night 44 years ago that Patsy Montana made her debut on the Grand Ole Opry:

1st show
6:30: Mrs Grissoms
Stu Phillips (host): That's A Chance I'll Have to Take
Merle Kilgore: Wolverton Mountain
Connie Eaton: Who's Sorry Now
Stu Phillips: Me and Bobby McGee
Merle Kilgore: Honky Tonk Man

6:45: Rudy's
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper (host): Poor Ellen Smith
Murry Kellum: Joy to the World
Wilma Lee Cooper: Coming Down From God
Murry Kellum: Long Tall Texan

7:00: Luzianne
Billy Grammer (host): Detroit City
4 Guys: Let the Sun Keep Shining
Stan Hitchcock: Free Born Men
Barbara Mandrell: Break My Mind
Billy Grammer: Jesus Is A Soul Man
4 Guys: You Can Tell the World About This
Stan Hitchcock: You Gave Me a Mountain
Billy Grammer: What A Friend

7:30: Standard Candy
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Willis Brothers: Women's Liberation
Patsy Montana: A Cowboy's Sweetheart
Crook Brothers: 8th of January
Roy Acuff: Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain
Willis Brothers: High Cost of Living
Patsy Montana: Little Rag Doll

8:00: Martha White
Tex Ritter (host): Wayward Wind
Stringbean: Mountain Dew
Stoney Edwards: A $2 Toy
Wilma Burgess: Snowbird
Tex Ritter: Fall Away
Stringbean: Y' All Come
Stoney Edwards: Po Folks Stick Together
Tex Ritter: I Dreamed of A Hillbilly Heaven

8:30: Stephens
Hank Snow (host): In the Misty Moonlight
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Hollow Poplar
Johnny Cash: A Boy Named Sue
Johnny Cash: Sunday Morning Coming Down
Johnny Cash & June Carter Cash: No Need to Worry
Johnny Cash & June Carter Cash: Jackson
Hank Snow: That's When The Hurting Sets In

2nd show
9:30: Kellogg's
Stu Phillips (host): Let the Guitars Play
Willis Brothers: Give Me 40 Acres
Merle Kilgore: All For the Love Of A Girl
Patsy Montana: Sixteen Pounds
Stu Phillips: For the Good Times
Murry Kellum: Joy to the World
Merle Kilgore: Tiger Woman

10:00: Fender
Roy Acuff (host): Meeting in the Air
Johnny Cash: Man In Black
Johnny Cash & June Carter Cash: If I Were A Carpenter
Johnny Cash & June Carter Cash: Help Me Make It Through the Night
Johnny Cash & June Carter Cash: No Need to Worry
Johnny Cash: Folsom Prison Blues

10:15: Union 76
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper (host): Big Midnight Special
Stan Hitchcock: I'm So Lonesome I Could Cry
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper: Orange Blossom Special

10:30: Trailblazer
Billy Grammer (host): Gotta Travel On
Stringbean: Ruby
Billy Grammer: Beautiful Isle of Somewhere

10:45: Beech-Nut
4 Guys (host): Cottonfields/Maria
Connie Eaton: Who's Sorry Now
Crook Brothers: Chicken Reel
4 Guys: One Pair of Hands

11:00: Coca-Cola
Hank Snow (host): I've Been Everywhere
Barbara Mandrell: Treat Him Right
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Hickory Leaf
Hank Snow: Send Me the Pillow You Dream On
Barbara Mandrell: Rocky Top
Sam McGee: Victory Rag
Hank Snow: So Goes My Heart

11:30: Elm Hill
Tex Ritter (host): Wayward Wind
Wilma Burgess: Misty Blue
Stoney Edwards: Today I Started Loving You Again
Tex Ritter: Fall Away
Wilma Burgess: Tennessee Waltz

There were several interesting names that appeared on the Opry that night with Patsy, the most famous being Johnny Cash, along with his wife June Carter Cash. At the time, Johnny was at the peak of his popularity, which was evident by the number of songs that he performed and by being the only guest on Hank Snow's segment on the first show and Roy Acuff's on the second show.

Other interesting names that might not be as well known included Wilma Burgess, Stoney Edwards, Connie Eaton, Murry Kellum and Barbara Mandrell, not yet an Opry member. We know about Barbara, but what about the others.

Wilma Burgess was born on June 11, 1939 and passed away on August 26, 2003. Between 1965 and 1975, she had fifteen singles on the country charts, the most successful being "Misty Blue" which in 1966 went to #4. She was produced for most of her career by Owen Bradley, where she recorded for his Decca label until 1975. Her last recordings were made in 1982 after which she opened and performed at a bar in Nashville and helped in running the Jim Reeves Museum. She died at the age of 64 after suffering a heart attack. One interesting note is in 1965 she purchased the Nashville home that belonged to Patsy Cline and also Jim Reeves' touring bus, "Big Blue."

Connie Eaton was born in March 1950 and passed away from cancer on September 30, 1999. She was born in Nashville and recorded for Chart Records, which was owned by Lynn Anderson, and many in the press referred to her as the "next" Anderson. During her career, she released three albums and her biggest hit was "Lonely Men, Lonely Women" which went to #23 in 1975. By the late 1970s, she was out of the music business.

Murry Kellum had one hit record during his career, "Long Tall Texan", which was a hit for him in 1963. He also co-wrote the Alabama hit, "If You're Gonna Play in Texas You've Gotta Have a Fiddle in the Band." He was also known as a very good guitarist. He passed away at the age of 47 in 1990, dying as the result of a plane crash.

Stoney Edwards was born December 24, 1929 under the name of Frenchie Edwards. He was one of seven children and while growing up he dreamed of performing on the Grand Ole Opry. In 1968, while working as a forklift operator in California, he was involved in an industrial accident that resulted in him spending the next several years in either a coma or near-coma. As he recovered, he started to devote himself to country music. In 1970, while performing in Oakland, California, he was spotted by a local attorney, Ray Sweeney, who knew in the wake of the success of Charley Pride that other labels were looking for black country singers. As a result of his efforts, Stoney was signed by Capital Records. Stoney released five albums for Capital, which included two Top 20 singles, "She's My Rock" and "Mississippi You're On My Mind." "She's My Rock' would later be recorded by Brenda Lee and George Jones. By the early 1980s, his health was declining and he would pass away from cancer in 1997.

The second line-up is from five years later, Saturday July 24, 1976. It was on this night that Grand Ole Opry member Bobby Lord made his final appearance as a member of the Opry.

Bobby Lord was born on January 6, 1934 in Sanford, Florida. As a teenage, he entered various talent contests in the Tampa area, where his family had moved. After graduating from Plant High School, he was offered the chance to host a television show, "The Bobby Lord Homefolks Show." In 1952 he won a nationwide talent contest sponsored by TV Guide. In 1953, upon the recommendation of Boudleaux Bryant who had heard one of Bobby's demo tapes, he was signed by Columbia Records. At the age of 19, he was their youngest recording artist. In 1955 he joined the Ozark Jubilee and when that show was cancelled in 1960, he moved to Nashville and was immediately offered membership to the Grand Ole Opry. During his time on the Opry, he also hosted "Opry Almanac" on WSM-TV and he also had a weekly syndicated show which included Jerry Whitehurst and Spider Wilson as band members. Bobby left Nashville in 1969 and went into semi-retirement from the music business. In the 1980s he hosted TNN's Country Sportsman. Bobby died on February 16, 2008 in Stuart, Florida. Although he gave up his Opry membership in 1976, he would continue to make a few appearances on the Opry, when ever he was up in the Nashville area.

From 39 years ago this weekend, here is the line-up from Bobby Lord's final show as an Opry member, July 24, 1976:

1st show
6:30: Mrs Grissoms
Stonewall Jackson (host): Life to Go
Bill Carlisle: Too Old to Cut the Mustard
Stonewall Jackson: Washed My Hands in Muddy Water/Waterloo

6:45: Rudy's
Willis Brothers (host): Chattanooga Shoe Shine Boy
Lorrie Morgan: Merry-Go-Round of Love
Johnny Carver: Afternoon Delight
Willis Brothers: For the Good Times

7:00: Shoney's
Jimmy C Newman (host): Lucille
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper: (?)
Jerry Clower: Comedy
Del Wood: Stars & Stripes/Caissons/Anchor's Away/U.S. Marines/America the Beautiful
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper: Nobody's Darling But Min
Jimmy C Newman: A Fallen Star/Diggy Liggy Lo

7:30: Standard Candy
Bobby Lord (host): Live Your Life Out Loud
Skeeter Davis: The End of the World
Billy Grammer: Family Man
Crook Brothers/Stoney Mountain Cloggers: Cumberland Gap
Bobby Lord: Fall Away
Skeeter Davis: The Old Rugged Cross/The King is Coming
Billy Grammer: Under the Double Eagle
Bobby Lord: Hawkeye

8:00: Martha White
Lester Flatt (host): Life of Riley
Jeanne Pruett: Satin Sheets
Justin Tubb: Sweetwater, Texas
Oswald: Mountain Dew
Lester Flatt: Father's Table Grace
Jeanne Pruett: Break My Mind
Justin Tubb: Yesterday Just Passed My Way Again

8:30: Stephens
Hank Snow (host): I'm Moving On
Jean Shepard: Wabash Cannonball
Larry Gatlin: Broken Lady/Take Back, It's Over
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Bill Cheatham
Jean Shepard: Ain't Love Good
Hank Snow: Paper Roses

2nd show
9:30: Kellogg's
Jimmy C Newman (host): Louisiana Saturday Night
Willis Brothers: Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain
Bill Carlisle: Knothole
Del Wood: Stars & Stripes/Caissons/Anchors Away/US Marines/America the Beautiful
Johnny Carver: Afternoon Delight
Willis Brothers: Cool Water
Bill Carlisle: Business Man

10:00: Fender
Jerry Clower (host): Marcel Stops the Train
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper: Curly Headed Baby
Jerry Clower: Comedy

10:15: Union 76
Stonewall Jackson (host): Don't Be Angry
Skeeter Davis: Come on Over
Oswald: Sailing On
Stonewall Jackson: Waterloo

10:30: Trailblazer
Lester Flatt (host)
Paul Warren: Black-Eyed Susie
Lorrie Morgan: Stand By Your Man
Justin Tubb: Looking Back to See
Lester Flatt: Great Big Woman & A Little Biddy Bottle of Wine
Kenny Ingram: Flint Hill Special

10:45: Beech-Nut
Billy Grammer (host): Gotta Travel On
Larry Gatlin: Broken Lady
Crook Brothers/Stoney Mountain Cloggers: Liberty
Billy Grammer: Peace in the Valley

11:00: Coca-Cola
Hank Snow (host): Hello Love
Jeanne Pruett: Satin Sheets
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Soldier's Joy
Hank Snow: That's When He Dropped the World in My Hands
Jeanne Pruett: It's Doesn't Hurt to Ask
Kirk McGee: Blue Night
Hank Snow: My Little Old Home Down in New Orleans

11:30: Elm Hill
Bobby Lord (host): Rainbow Girl
Jean Shepard: Slippin' Away/Ain't Love Good
Rex Allen: Green, Green Grass of Home/The Streets of Laredo
Bobby Lord: Y'All Come

Enjoy the Opry this weekend!!














Wednesday, July 15, 2015

Grand Ole Opry 7/17 & 7/18

The Grand Ole Opry has posted the line-up for the Friday Night Opry and Saturday's Grand Ole Opry and there are some interesting names that are set to appear this weekend.

First, Opry member and Hall of Famer Jean Shepard is scheduled for Saturday night. She has not appeared on the Opry in 2015 and it is nice to see her again on the schedule. The hope is that she is well enough to appear, not only this weekend, but in the future. They scheduled her in a segment with Jesse McReynolds, who has also missed the last couple of weeks. Jesse said that he wasn't feeling well but that he is much better and was able to celebrate his 86th birthday last week. I think by putting both of these artists together, the Opry is covering itself in case one cancels.

As far as other Opry members this weekend, Ray Pillow and Mike Snider are set to host segments both nights. Mike has kind of fallen out of the rotation of hosting a segment, so it is nice to see him back in that role. And it is always a treat to see Ray back on the Opry. Obviously, if they are having Ray and Mike hosting segments both nights, the pool of possible hosts is slim and many are out on the road this weekend. Other Opry members set for this weekend are Larry Gatlin and Bobby Osborne on Friday night and Jeannie Seely and Jan Howard on Saturday night. Oh no, I did not miss his name!! Vince Gill is set again for both shows this weekend. Outstanding!!

With such few Opry members scheduled this weekend, the guest artists will dominate. Set for both nights is Darryl Worley, while Greg Bates, T. Graham Brown, Home Free, Elizabeth Cook and The Steeldrivers are set for Friday night. Home Free is the newcomer on this list. They were the winner of season 4 of "The Sing Off" on NBC. They did not start out as a country group, but as members have changed, their musical direction has shifted into that style. T. Graham Brown used to be on the Opry a lot, but his recent appearances have been few and far. It is nice to see him back. The Steeldrivers are an exciting group that tends to go toward bluegrass and Elizabeth Cook is a very talented songwriter and singer.

Saturday night will feature Keith Anderson, Amber Digby, TG Sheppard and his wife Kelly Lang, Clare Bowen from "Nashville," and Sara Haze. That totals out to 14 on Saturday night. The artist I am looking most forward to is Amber Digby. Out of Texas, she always has done a great job and I was at the Opry for her last appearance. She is very talented and usually has her husband with her playing guitar.

Friday July 17
7:00: Mike Snider (host); Darryl Worley
7:30: Ray Pillow (host); Greg Bates; T. Graham Brown
Intermission
8:15: Larry Gatlin (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Home Free
8:45: Vince Gill (host); Elizabeth Cook; The Steeldrivers

Saturday July 18
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Keith Anderson; Amber Digby
7:30: Mike Snider (host); TG Sheppard with Kelly Lang; Clare Bowen
Intermission
8:15: Ray Pillow (host); Jan Howard; Sara Haze; Opry Square Dancers
8:45: Vince Gill (host); Jean Shepard; Jesse McReynolds; Darryl Worley

And now, here is the posted Grand Ole Opry line-up from five years ago, the weekend of July 16 & 17, 2010. Both the Friday Night Opry and Saturday's Grand Ole Opry were held at the Ryman Auditorium.

Friday July 16
7:00: Marty Stuart (host); Rebecca Lynn Howard; Mary Chapin Carpenter
7:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jimmy C Newman; Mark Wills
Intermission
8:15: Jeannie Seely (host); Jack Greene; Jesse McReynolds; Jim Ed Brown; Jan Howard
8:45: Mel Tillis (host); Riders In The Sky; Kenyon Lockry

Saturday July 17
7:00: Jimmy Dickens (host); Rebecca Lynn Howard; Mel Tillis
7:30: Bill Anderson (host); Connie Smith; Point Of Grace
Intermission
8:15: Jeannie Seely (host); Stonewall Jackson; Lee Brice; Opry Square Dancers
8:45: Riders In The Sky (host); Jim Ed Brown; Rodney Crowell

As far as the Friday Night Opry, Mary Chapin Carpenter was not on the schedule and made a surprise appearance before heading to another venue in Nashville. That accounted for the five artists in the 8:15 segment as the line-up was shuffled around.

Now from ten years ago this weekend, July 15 & 16, 2005:

Friday July 15
7:30: Porter Wagoner (host); Connie Smith; Charlie Walker; Maura O'Connell
8:00: Jean Shepard (host); Mel McDaniel; Susan Haynes
8:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Kenny & Amanda Smith; Janie Fricke
9:00: Mike Snider (host); George Hamilton IV; Restless Heart
9:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Osborne Brothers; Mark Chesnutt

Saturday July 16
1st show
6:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jimmy C Newman; Carlene Carter
7:00: Mike Snider (host); George Hamilton IV; The Wrights
7:30: Jean Shepard (host); Mel McDaniel; The Isaacs
8:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Jan Howard; Raul Malo; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Billy Walker; Shawn King; T. Graham Brown

2nd show
9:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Mike Snider; Raul Malo
10:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Mel McDaniel; Shawn King; The Isaacs
10:30: Jimmy C Newman (host); Stu Phillips; T. Graham Brown; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Jean Shepard (host); Billy Walker; Carlene Carter
11:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Ray Pillow; The Wrights

Going back into the history of the Opry, it was on Saturday July 18, 1964 that Connie Smith made her first guest appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. Connie would continue to make guest appearances over the next year, and on August 8, she will be honored on her 50th anniversary as an Opry member.

Here is the running order from 51 years ago, July 18, 1964:

7:30: Luzianne
Bill Anderson (host): Po Folks
The Browns: The Wayward Wind
Gordon Terry: Wild Honey
Del Wood: Mocking Bird
Bill Anderson: Five Little Fingers
Connie Smith: I Can Stand It
Jimmy Gateley: (?)
The Browns: Then I'll Stop Loving You
Bill Anderson: Still

8:00: Martha White
Jimmy Newman (host): Alligator Man
Jean Shepard: Two Little Boys
Carl Butler: I'm Hanging Up the Phone
Crazy Elmer: Comedy
Crook Brothers: Mississippi Sawyer
Jimmy Newman: Summer Skies and Golden Sands
Jean Shepard: Second Fiddle
Carl Butler: Don't Let Me Cross Over
Jimmy Newman: A Fallen Star

8:30: Stephens
Leroy Van Dyke (host): Your Money
Marion Worth: You Took Him Off My Hands
Sonny James: Ask Marie
Bill Carlisle: Shanghai Rooster
Leroy Van Dyke: Auctioneer
Stan Hitchcock: Looking Through A Teardrop
Marion Worth: Crazy Arms
Sonny James: The Minute Your Gone
Leroy Van Dyke: Walk On By

9:00: Pet Milk
Roy Acuff (host): Sunshine Special
Billy Grammer: Detroit City
George Hamilton IV: Abilene
Oswald: Roll On, Buddy, Roll On
Roy Acuff: The Great Speckled Bird
June Stearn: (?)
Billy Grammer: Beautiful Isle of Somewhere
George Hamilton IV: (?)
Roy Acuff: Glorybound Train


9:30: Kellogg's
Hank Snow (host): Ninety Miles an Hour, Down A Dead End Street
Carter Family: Wildwood Flower
Roy Drusky: Pick of the Week
Willis Brothers: Gonna Buy Me A Jukebox
June Carter: Comedy
Hank Snow: Why Do You Punish Me
Carter Family: (?)
Roy Drusky: Yesterday
Hank Snow: Caribbean

10:00: Schick
Jimmy Newman (host): Bayou Talk
The Browns: Yesterday's Gone
Jean Shepard: Hillbilly Fever
Jimmy Newman: The Mover

10:15: SSS Tonic
Sonny James (host): Jenny Lou
Marion Worth: The Hands You're Holding Now
Bill Carlisle: No Help Wanted
Sonny James: Ask Marie

10:30: Harvey's
Leroy Van Dyke (host): All the Boys Are Talking
Del Wood: Pony Boy
George Hamilton IV: Three Steps to the Phone
Leroy Van Dyke: Dim Dark Corner

10:45: Newport
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Crook Brothers: New Five Cents
Carl Butler: (?)
Roy Acuff: Lights in the Valley

11:00: Coca-Cola
Hank Snow (host): I'm Moving On
The Browns: The 3 Bells
Billy Grammer: (?)
June Carter: Comedy
Hank Snow: (?)
Fruit Jar Drinkers: (?)
Carter Family: Foggy Mountain Top
Billy Grammer: (?)
Hank Snow: (?)


11:30: Lava
Roy Drusky (host): Peel Me A Nanner
Willis Brothers: Private Lee
George Hamilton IV: (?)
Crazy Elmer: Comedy
Roy Drusky: Another
Connie Smith: (?)
Willis Brothers: Big Daddy
George Hamilton IV: (?)
Roy Drusky: (?)

Interesting that on her first night, Connie was on the opening segment and the closing segment. And of course, it was Bill Anderson who first introduced her on the Opry.

Enjoy the Opry this weekend!!




Monday, July 13, 2015

Mid-Week Opry Shows 7/14 & 7/15

A couple of very solid mid-week Opry shows coming up on Tuesday and Wednesday night:

Tuesday July 14
7:00: John Conlee; Terri Clark
7:30: Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Chris Janson
Intermission
8:15: Jeannie Seely; Chase Bryant
8:45: Nathan Chapman; Vince Gill

Nice to see that 5 of the 8 acts are Opry members, and nice to see Vince continue his string of Opry appearances.

Wednesday July 15
7:00: Frankie Ballard; Bill Anderson
7:30: Mickey Guyton; The Isaacs
Intermission
8:15: The Secret Sisters; The Bellamy Brothers
8:45: Sarah Darling; Larry Gatlin

For those not familiar with The Secret Sisters, they are outstanding and worth checking out.

Thursday, July 9, 2015

Grand Ole Opry 7/10 & 7/11

The line-ups have been posted for the Friday Night Opry and Saturday's Grand Ole Opry as summer continues in Nashville. Overall, some good shows this weekend, with Saturday looking the better of the two nights.

I know it is starting to sound like a broken record, but once again, we have Vince Gill scheduled for both nights, hosting the final segment. I know many of us wondered with the deaths of Jimmy C Newman, George Hamilton IV, Jimmy Dickens, and most recently, Jim Ed Brown, what Opry members would step up and respond with increased Opry appearances. I think it is safe to say that Vince, along with Larry Gatlin, have stepped up to the plate. Vince has always supported the Opry, no complaints here. But it is very nice to see increasing his appearances even more and supporting the show. Once again, he is setting an example for others of his generation.

He will be joined both nights by Opry members Bill Anderson, Connie Smith and Mike Snider. Friday night Joe Diffie gets another opportunity to host a segment. He did a nice job earlier this year in filling that role. Orpy member Bobby Osborne is also set for Friday night, while on Saturday, John Conlee, the Oak Ridge Boys and the great Ralph Stanley are set to appear.

As far as guest artists, one of my favorites, Suzy Bogguss is set for Saturday night, along with Austin Webb, Casey James, and "Nashville's" Jonathan Jackson. Friday night will be highlighted by Neal McCoy, along with Josh Thompson, Wade Hayes, JT Hodges, Cam, and the lovely Crystal Gayle, who would certainly make a great Opry member.

Friday July 10
7:00: Connie Smith (host); Josh Thompson; Mike Snider
7:30: Joe Diffie (host); Wade Hayes; Crystal Gayle
Intermission
8:15: Bill Anderson (host); Cam; JT Hodges
8:45: Vince Gill (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Neal McCoy

Saturday July 11
7:00: Connie Smith (host); Austin Webb; Mike Snider
7:30: John Conlee (host); Suzy Bogguss; Ralph Stanley
Intermission
8:15: Bill Anderson (host); Casey James; Opry Square Dancers
8:45: Vince Gill (host); Jonathan Jackson; Oak Ridge Boys

And now, here is the posted Grand Ole Opry line-up from five years ago this weekend, July 9 & 10, 2010. Both shows took place at the Ryman Auditorium.

Friday July 9
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Connie Smith; Rebecca Lynn Howard
7:30: Jean Shepard (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Mandy Barnett
Intermission
8:15: Mike Snider (host); Jan Howard; Jimmy C Newman; Terri Clark
8:45: Jim Ed Brown (host); The Whites; Joe Diffie

Saturday July 10
7:00: Jim Ed Brown (host); Jean Shepard; Andy Griggs
7:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Jack Greene; Sam Bush
Intermission
8:15: Mike Snider (host); Stonewall Jackson; Jason & The long Road To Love; Opry Square Dancers
8:45: Ricky Skaggs (host); Charlie Louvin; Connie Smith

And from ten years ago this weekend, July 8 & 9, 2005:

Friday July 8
7:30: Porter Wagoner (host); The Whites; Jean Shepard; Dale Watson
8:00: Mike Snider (host); Jimmy C Newman; Jack Greene; Daryle Singletary
8:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jim Ed Brown; Larry Sparks
9:00: Bill Anderson (host); Charlie Louvin; Connie Smith; Josh Turner
9:30: John Conlee (host); Hank Locklin; Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Terri Clark

Saturday July 9
1st show
6:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); The Whites; Elizabeth Cook
7:00: Mike Snider (host); Jean Shepard; Jimmy C Newman; Jason Aldean
7:30: John Conlee (host); Jan Howard; Billy Walker; Carlene Carter
8:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Mel McDaniel; Connie Smith; Del McCoury Band; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Osborne Brothers; Marty Stuart; Vince Gill

2nd show
9:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Mike Snider; Jim Ed Brown; Jason Aldean
10:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Jack Greene; The Whites; Carlene Carter
10:30: Vince Gill (host); Jean Shepard; Del McCoury Band; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: John Conlee (host); Connie Smith; Vince Gill
11:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Osborne Brothers; Mel McDaniel; Elizabeth Cook

For this week's look back in Opry history, here is the running order of the Grand Ole Opry from 51 years ago, Saturday July 11, 1964:

7:30: Luzianne
Porter Wagoner (host): Sorrow on the Rocks
Roy Drusky: Peel Me A Nanner
Del Wood: Are You From Dixie
Justin Tubb: As Long As There's A Sunday
Porter Wagoner: Life of the Party
Stringbean: Moonshine in Them Old Kentucky Hills
Margie Bowes: Overnight
Roy Drusky: Pick of the Week
Fiddle Tune: Ragtime Annie
Porter Wagoner: Howdy Neighbor, Howdy

8:00: Martha White
Flatt & Scruggs (host): (?)
Bill Anderson: (?)
Wilburn Brothers: (?)
Minnie Pearl: Comedy
Crook Brothers: 8th of January
Flatt & Scruggs: (?)
Jean Shepard: (?)
Wilburn Brothers: (?)
Flatt & Scruggs: (?)

8:30: Stephens
Roy Acuff (host): Low & Lonely
Lonzo & Oscar: There's A Hole in the Bottom of the Sea
Leroy Van Dyke: (?)
Archie Campbell: Comedy
Roy Acuff: The Precious Jewel
Bill Carlisle: Shanghai Rooster
Stonewall Jackson: (?)
Oswald: Black Smoke's A'Rollin

Roy Acuff: How Beautiful Heaven Must Be

9:00: Pet Milk
Faron Young (host):(?)
Jim & Jesse: (?)
Jimmy Newman: (?)
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Katy Hill

Faron Young: (?)
Billy Grammer: (?)

Cates Sisters: (?)
Jim & Jesse: (?)
Faron Young: (?)


9:30: Kellogg's
Hank Snow (host): Breakfast With the Blues
Glaser Brothers: Girl of Mine
Bill Monroe: (?)
Willis Brothers: Private Lee
Hank Snow: (?)
Sonny James: (?)
Cousin Jody: Lady Cop

Bill Monroe: (?)
Hank Snow: There's A Fool Such As I


10:00: Schick
Porter Wagoner (host): Misery Loves Company
Stringbean: String's A'Fishing
Del Wood: 12th Street Rag
Porter Wagoner: I've Enjoyed As Much of This As I Can Stand
Wagonmasters: Soldier's Joy

10:15: SSS Tonic
Billy Grammer (host): (?)
Roy Drusky: (?)
Margie Bowes: Understand Your Gal

Justin Tubb: Take A Letter Miss Gray
Billy Grammer: (?)

10:30: Harvey's
Flatt & Scruggs (host): (?)
Stonewall Jackson: (?)
Bill Carlisle: Is Zat You Myrtle
Flatt & Scruggs: (?)

10:45: Newport
Roy Acuff (host): Little Pal
Crook Brothers: Sally Goodin
Wilburn Brothers: (?)
Roy Acuff: Glorybound Train

Howdy & Jimmy: Cowbell Polka

11:00: Coca-Cola
Hank Snow (host): I've Been Everywhere
Glaser Brothers: (?)
Lonzo & Oscar: (?)
Leroy Van Dyke: (?)
Hank Snow: Muy Filipino Rose

Jean Shepard: (?)
Bill Anderson: (?)

Fruit Jar Drinkers: (?)
Hank Snow: South Bound

11:30: Lava
Faron Young (host): (?)
Bill Monroe: (?)
Jimmy Newman: Summer Skies & Golden Sand

Willis Brothers: (?)
Faron Young: (?)
Sonny James: (?)
Cousin Jody: (?)
Jim & Jesse: (?)
Faron Young: (?)


Enjoy the Opry this weekend!!

Saturday, July 4, 2015

2015 Mid-Year Grand Ole Opry Review

With the end of June, the Opry has reached the mid-point of 2015 and their 90th year. I thought it would be a good time to review what has been going on at the Opry so far this year.

2015 has seen the return of a couple of the Opry's long lost members to the Opry stage, as both Garth Brooks and Reba McEntire returned, along with Trisha Yearwood. The year as also seen the Opry lose two of it's longtime members as Jimmy Dickens and Jim Ed Brown passed away. Both had been Opry members for over 50 years.

Through the month of June, there has been a total of 88 Opry shows, with the breakdown showing 26 shows each on Friday and Saturday night, 23 Tuesday Night Opry shows, 3 on Wednesday, 9 Thursday Opry Country Classics, and 1 Saturday matinee show.

As far as the top 10 Opry members and appearances, it looks like this:

1) Mike Snider-47
2) Jeannie Seely-39
3) Connie Smith-36
4) Riders In The Sky/The Whites/Larry Gatlin-34
5) Bill Anderson-31
6) Gatlin Brothers-28
7) John Conlee-27
8) Bobby Osborne-23
9) Ricky Skaggs-19
10) Del McCoury Band-18

Just outside the Top 10 is Vince Gill and Jesse McReynolds, each at 15.

Of the Opry's 63 current members, 46 have made Opry appearances this year. Of the 17 missing, Tom T Hall, Barbara Mandrell, Jeanne Pruett and Ricky Van Shelton are retired, while Randy Travis and Jean Shepard have not been on due to health issues. That leaves Dierks Bentley, Clint Black, Emmylou Harris, Alan Jackson, Stonewall Jackson, Alison Krauss, Martina McBride, Dolly Parton, Blake Shelton, Travis Tritt and Keith Urban. Additionally, Garth Brooks, Hal Ketchum, Patty Loveless, Loretta Lynn, Reba McEntire, Ronnie Milsap and Stu Phillips have made just one appearance each.

The Grand Ole Opry started the year with 65 members. With the deaths of Jimmy Dickens and Jim Ed Brown, Opry membership is down to 63. While there have been no rumors of any future Opry members, Opry Vice-President and General Manager Pete Fisher was asked in a recent interview if any new members would be welcomed between now and the official 90th birthday. His response was, "I honestly do not know. It's really interesting how the next member candidate kind of shapes up. The right people at the right time have come to meet the Opry. One thing that doesn't change is we continue to reach out to the new artists in the community and nuture that relationship, and as their career grows, we hope that they grow even closer to the Opry, but we recognize how demanding that can be with all that an artist has to do to sustain their career. I remember back with Brad Paisley or Carrie making their debut on the Opry, or Taylor Swift even, and seeing them all fill stadiums now, it's fun to see that maturation of careers and to know the Opry's played a part of it."

At least to me, if you read between the lines, Pete Fisher and the Opry management seem to want to help develop new artists and to make sure that the Opry is a big part of their career growth. The two artists that come to mind that they have been successful with are Brad Paisley and Josh Turner. They both were guests on the Opry many, many times before they achieved any hit records, and once they had their first hits, they continued to make guest appearances on the Opry while their careers grew. Eventually both became Opry members, with Josh certainly making a better effort then Brad as far as making appearances. Brad and Josh are not the only ones that the Opry has tried to promote, but other artists , such as Jimmy Wayne or Sarah Darling, never achieved "star" status with their careers. As far as young artists who are currently making guest appearances on the Opry, the most obvious is Chris Janson, who I still believe will be an Opry member at some point. Another act to watch is Love and Theft. From the Opry's standpoint, this probably makes sense as recent new "superstar" members such Black Shelton and Keith Urban seem to have forgotten that they are Opry members.

As far as guest appearances in 2015, the leader is Chris Janson with 18. He is followed by Love and Theft with 11, Jimmy Wayne 10, The Willis Clan 9, and Holly Williams, EmiSunshine, Greg Bates and Charles Esten 7 each.

Ryman Hospitalities, along with the Opry, continue to heavily promote "Nashville" on ABC, which will be back for another season starting in the fall. Numerous actors and actresses from the show have made Opry appearances this year including Charles Esten, Jonathan Jackson, Chris Carmack and Clare Bowen among others.

The Opry continues to have great success at the box office, with most shows sold out or close to it. They are also doing big business with the backstage tours and at the Opry Shop. A huge renovation was recently completed at the Ryman Auditorium, where Opry Country Classics is held, along with the Opry itself, starting in November.

All in all, it has been another interesting year at the Opry, where we continue to see many more guest artists making appearances versus Opry members. And as the Opry continues with its 90th year, plans continue to be made for the birthday celebration in October, which will also include a number of special shows. A couple of dates to watch is September, when Connie Smith will celebrate her 50th year as an Opry member, and October, when Garth Brooks will celebrate 25 years as a member.

And who knows what surprises the rest of the year might bring.

Wednesday, July 1, 2015

Grand Ole Opry 7/3 & 7/4

The Grand Ole Opry has posted the line-ups for the Friday Night Opry and Saturday's Grand Ole Opry. In the past, it has been hit or miss on holiday weekends, but I think for this year, the Opry has come up with two good shows.

Both nights will feature Opry member, and Country Music Hall of Famer, Vince Gill. Vince continues his trend of increased Opry appearances in 2015 with two more this weekend, and even more in the coming weeks. It is really nice to see Vince on the Opry as often as he has been and it would be even nicer if a few others from his generation would follow the example he is setting.

Joining Vince both nights, and hosting segments, will be Opry members Riders In The Sky and Bill Anderson. Connie Smith is also set for both nights, although she will only be hosting on Saturday, with Jeannie Seely picking up the Friday slot. And let's not forget Mike Snider. As far as other Opry members this weekend, Friday night will have Jesse McReynolds while Saturday night has scheduled Jan Howard and Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press.

Looking at those who will be guesting this week, Mandy Barnett is set for both nights, while Jackie Lee, Maggie Rose, the ever popular Chris Janson and The Time Jumpers are set for Friday. Saturday's guests will include Janelle Arthur, Sierra Hull, Morgan Evans and Chuck Mead & His Grassy Knoll Boys.

Friday July 3
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Jackie Lee; Mike Snider
7:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Maggie Rose; Connie Smith
Intermission
8:15: Bill Anderson (host); Jesse McReynolds; Mandy Barnett
8:45: Vince Gill (host); Chris Janson; The Time Jumpers

Saturday July 4
7:00: Connie Smith (host); Janelle Arthur; MIke Snider
7:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Sierra Hull; Morgan Evans
Intermission
8:15: Bill Anderson (host); Jan Howard; Chuck Mead & His Grassy Knoll Boys; Opry Square Dancers
8:45: Vince Gill (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Mandy Barnett

And now, here is the posted Grand Ole Opry line-up from five years ago this weekend, July 2 & 3, 2010. Both nights took place at the Ryman Auditorium.

Friday July 2
7:00: John Conlee (host); Riders In The Sky; Emily West
7:30: Mike Snider (host); Jean Shepard; Kathy Mattea
Intermission
8:15: Bill Anderson (host); Jeannie Seely; ACM Lifting Lives Music Campers
8:45: Emmylou Harris (host); Jim Ed Brown; The Whites

Saturday July 3
7:00: Mike Snider (host); Jimmy C Newman; Mandy Barnett
7:30: John Conlee (host); Jeannie Seely; Tom Bresh
Intermission
8:15: Emmylou Harris (host); George Hamilton IV; Jesse McReynolds; Opry Square Dancers
8:45: Bill Anderson (host); Jan Howard; Wynonna

And from ten years ago, the weekend of July 1 & 2, 2005:

Friday July 1
7:30: Porter Wagoner (host); The Whites; Jack Greene; The Grascals
8:00: Jim Ed Brown (host); Gail Davies; Mike Snider
8:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jean Shepard; Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Erika Jo
9:00: Bill Anderson (host); Jedd Hughes; Janie Fricke
9:30: George Hamilton IV (host); Jimmy C Newman; Osborne Brothers; Marty Stuart

Saturday July 2
1st show
6:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Mel McDaniel; David Ball
7:00: Jim Ed Brown (host); Jimmy C Newman; Jan Howard; King Wilkie; Doyle Dykes
7:30: Mike Snider (host); Charlie Walker; Jean Shepard; Marty Stuart
8:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Jeannie Seely; The Whites; Mandy Barnett; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Bill Anderson (host); The Grascals; Billy Ray Cyrus

2nd show
9:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Mel McDaniel; Billy Ray Cyrus
10:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Jean Shepard; George Hamilton IV; David Ball
10:30: Mike Snider (host); The Whites; Doyle Dykes; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Bill Anderson (host); The Grascals; Marty Stuart
11:30: Jeannie Seely (host); King Wilkie; Mandy Barnett

For this week's featured line-up, it was on Saturday July 3, 1993 that Alison Krauss became a member of the Grand Ole Opry.

Alison Krauss was born on July 23, 1971 in Champaigne, Illinois. Alison first appeared on the Grand Ole Opry in 1989 at the age of 17. By then she had already recorded her first album, "Too Late to Cry." The following year, she was nominated for her first Grammy. Since then, Alison has become the most awarded female artist in the history of the Grammys, in addition to winning numerous awards from the International Bluegrass Music Association, Country Music Association, Gospel Music Association, Academy of Country Music, Country Music Television and the Canadian Country Music Association. She is not only noted for her solo efforts and the work with her own group, Union Station, but also for the work she has done with other artists including Robert Plant.

When she joined the Opry, she was the first bluegrass artist in 29 years to be inducted and at the time, she was the Opry's youngest member. At the time she said, "I used to come here and sit in the audience and watch Ricky Skaggs, Porter Wagoner, and John Conlee. The amount of talent that wanders around backstage is shocking, and it sounds so beautiful out front. I love the way everybody watches everybody else play." Without a shadow of doubt, she will one day be elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame.

Here is the running order of the Grand Ole Opry from 22 years ago this weekend, July 3, 1993, when Alison Krauss became a member of the Grand Ole Opry:

1st show
6:30: GHS Strings
Del Reeves (host): Two Dollars in the Juke Box/A Dime at A Time/Looking at the World Through A Windshield
The Whites: Hangin' Around
Del Reeves: Bad News

6:45: Country Music Hall of Fame
Grandpa Jones (host): Going Down the Country
Billy Walker: You Gave Me A Mountain
Grandpa Jones: Little Old Home Down in New Orleans

7:00: Shoney's
Jack Greene (host): I'll Be There
Jimmy C Newman: La Cajun Band
Jeanne Pruett: I Oughta Feel Guilty
Stonewall Jackson: Old Chunk of Coal
Charlie Walker: There's A Star Spangled Banner Waving Somewhere
Jack Greene: There Goes My Everything/Statue of A Fool

7:30: Standard Candy
4 Guys (host): If It's From the Country, It's Coming From the Heart
George Hamilton IV: Has Anyone Here Seen Hank
Mike Snider: Battle Cry of Freedom
Alison Krauss: Atlanta, I Hear You Calling/Big Mon
4 Guys: The Star Spangled Banner

8:00: Martha White
Porter Wagoner (host): Company's Comin'
Jean Shepard: Bouquet of Roses
Oswald: Mountain Dew
Charlie Louvin: See the Big Man Cry
Porter Wagoner: Happy Birthday Margaret Smathers
Opry Square Dance Band/Stoney Mountain Cloggers: Sugar in the Goard
Porter Wagoner: Green Green Grass of Home

8:30: Kraft
Hank Snow (host): Address Unknown
Skeeter Davis: Lovesick Blues
Ray Pillow: Someone Had to Teach You
Jan Howard: You Don't Know Me
Roy Drusky: Son, Go Bring My Children Home
Hank Snow: I've Done at Least One Thing That Was Good In My Life

2nd show
9:30: Dollar General
Porter Wagoner (host): Y' All Come
Del Reeves: There She Goes
Stonewall Jackson: Side Steppin' the Blues
Alison Krauss: (?)/Molly & Tenbrooks
Porter Wagoner: Wabash Cannonball/The Precious Jewel/Fireball Mail/Night Train to Memphis/The Great Speckled Bird
Porter Wagoner: On A Highway Headed South

10:00: Little Debbie
Grandpa Jones (host): Ball Headed End of the Broom
Wilma Lee Cooper: The Gloryland March
The Whites: Keep on the Sunny Side
Grandpa Jones: Gone Home

10:15: Sunbeam/Tennessee Pride
4 Guys (host): We're Only Here For A Little While
Skeeter Davis: The End of the World
4 Guys: Swing Down Chariot

10:30: Piccadilly
Charlie Walker (host): Right or Wrong
Jean Shepard: Let's All Go Down to the River/I Saw the Light/Will the Circle Be Unbroken/I'll Fly Away/Somebody Touched Me
Charlie Walker: There's A Star Spangled Banner Waving Somewhere

10:45: Opry Book
Jimmy C Newman (host): Colinda
Charlie Louvin: Will You Visit Me on Sundays
Opry Square Dance Band/Stoney Mountain Cloggers: Sail Away Ladies
Jimmy C Newman: Cajun's Dream

11:00: Coca-Cola
Hank Snow (host): Ancient History
Roy Drusky: Mississippi
Justin Tubb: Waltz Across Texas
Jack Greene: Walking On New Grass/Statue of A Fool
Hank Snow: The Prisoner's Song/Are You Lonesome Tonight

11:30: General Jackson
George Hamilton IV (host): This Land Is Your Land
Ray Pillow: Please Don't Leave Me Anymore
Jan Howard: Wayfaring Stranger
Mike Snider: The Bells of St. Mary's
George Hamilton IV: Forever Young

On a side note, when Alison Krauss became an official Opry cast member during the first show, Garth Brooks was there and did the honors.

Enjoy the Opry this weekend and be safe over the July 4th holiday. Also this weekend, I will be posting my mid-year Opry update.