Grand Ole Opry 1/17 & 1/18

This weekend, the Grand Ole Opry will honor and dedicate its show to Buck White, who passed away on Monday morning.

From Music Row Magazine:

Buck White, patriarch of country music group The Whites and Grand Ole Opry member, passed away today (Jan. 13). He was 94.

The news was shared by his family, daughters Sharon, Cheryl, Rosie and Melissa.

“The Lord answered our prayers and took our daddy home peacefully this morning at 8 a.m. We are so thankful for his 94 years on this earth,” they shared in a joint statement. “He was a great Dad who taught us by example to put Jesus first always. His great loves were the Lord, our mother, his family and music. Most people will remember him not only for being a great musician and entertainer, but also for being fun-loving and full of mischief. He lived a full life and finished well.”

Buck’s skills on the piano first opened the door for music, landing him gigs with Hank Snow, Ernest Tubb and others. In 1962, he relocated his family from Texas to Arkansas, where he and his wife, Pat Goza, began performing with another couple as The Down Home Folks. Their daughters, Sharon and Cheryl, were billed as The Down Home Kids.

The group quickly gained recognition in bluegrass circles, and by 1971, the family had moved to Nashville to solidify their careers as professional singers. Still performing as The Down Home Folks, they released several bluegrass albums before Pat retired from the group in 1973. Their first album as The Whites was 1983’s Old Familiar Feeling, according to Discogs.

In 1981, Sharon married country and bluegrass legend Ricky Skaggs, who produced some of their records. The Whites earned CMA Award nominations for The Horizon Award and Instrumental Group of the Year in 1983 as well as ACM Award nominations for Top Vocal Group in 1982 and 1983. In 1984, the family was inducted into the Grand Ole Opry.

Over their career, The Whites captivated audiences with hits like “You Put The Blue In Me,” “Hangin’ Around,” “Give Me Back That Old Familiar Feeling,” “Pins And Needles,” “If It Ain’t Love (Let’s Leave It Alone),” “Hometown Gossip” and more. Their signature blend of bluegrass, country, folk, gospel and Texas swing, paired with their musical mastery and family harmony, became their hallmark.

Their involvement in the movie and soundtrack O Brother, Where Art Thou? brought them significant industry recognition, earning a Grammy Award for Album of the Year along with ACM and CMA Award nominations. They can be heard on the film’s “Keep on the Sunny Side,” a beloved classic originally popularized by the Carter Family.

In 2007, The Whites won another Grammy for their collaboration with Skaggs on his Salt of the Earth album. The following year, they were inducted into the Texas Country Music Hall of Fame.

Buck had been in declining health in recent years, and he made his last appearance at the Opry on March 2, 2024, the night that The Whites were honored upon their 40th year as Opry members. Buck, at the time of his death, was the oldest current member of the Opry's cast, a distinction that now goes to Stu Phillips. 

Literally every comment I have read after his passing has mentioned what a talented, kind and wonderful he was. He had a great sense of humor and seemed like he did not have an enemy in the world. While he hasn't been at the Opry often the past several years, he will be missed. 

Now moving ahead to this weekend at the Grand Ole Opry, on Friday night the Opry will conclude its 2025 run of shows at the Ryman Auditorium. Friday will also mark the return of longtime Opry member Jeannie Seely. Jeannie, or course, has been taking time away from the Opry after the passing of her husband Gene Ward. 

Joining Jeannie on Friday night are Opry members John Conlee and Gary Mule Deer. Also appearing is Opry NextStage artist Restless Road, along with LANCO and the wonderful and very talented Suzy Bogguss. Finally, Ralph Stanley II & The Clinch Mountain Boys will be appearing. It was 25 years ago this month that Ralph Stanley became a member of the Grand Ole Opry and Ralph II will be appearing in recognition of that anniversary. 

While Shaboozey will not be appearing as scheduled on Saturday night, plenty of other artists will be as the Opry honors and celebrates the birthday of Opry member Dolly Parton, in the annual Opry Goes Dolly show. 

Honoring Dolly will be Opry members Bill Anderson, Rhonda Vincent and Don Schlitz. Also on the schedule are Opry NextStage artists Chapel Hart and Ashley Cook. Emily Ann Roberts, Sunny Sweeney and Emily West round out the schedule. 

While Dolly herself will not be attending or performing on Saturday night, fans attending the Opry show can purchase a ticket to join a special Dolly-oke fundraiser in Studio A, headlined by Chapel Hart following the Opry show. All proceeds from the event will support the Opry Trust Fund, which offers financial assistance to those in the country music industry during times of crisis or emergency. In addition, every ticket sold to the January 18th show will be donated to Parton’s Imagination Library, a book gifting program that mails free, high-quality books to children from birth to age five, no matter their family’s income.

Friday January 17
7:00: John Conlee, Evan Honer, Jeannie Seely, LANCO
Intermission
8:20: Ralph Stanley II & The Clinch Mountain Boys, Gary Mule Deer, Restless Road, Suzy Bogguss

Saturday January 18
7:00: Opry Square Dancers, Rhonda Vincent, Sunny Sweeney, Don Schlitz, Ashley Cooke
Intermission
8:20: Bill Anderson, Emily Ann Roberts, Opry Square Dancers, Emily West, Chapel Hart

Continuing a look at former Grand Ole Opry members, the spotlight this week shines on former Opry member Leroy Van Dyke. Leroy joined the Opry on October 20, 1962. Like several others of that era, his career took off and over time, he failed to make the required number of Opry appearances each year. On November 25, 1965, this letter was sent to Leroy from Ott Devine: 

Mr. Leroy Van Dyke
1204 Kermit Drive
Nashville, Tennessee 

Dear Leroy: 

Our records show that you have been in for the Opry eighteen Saturdays this year with only five weeks remaining.

In fairness to those who have made sacrifices to meet our requirements, I must, with the greatest personal regret, inform you that we cannot include you in our plans in 1965. We can certainly appreciate your inability to be with us for the minimum number of weeks, and sincerely y trust you will be understanding with our situation. 

We are losing some very fine people and good friends, and it is with much sorrow that I must write this letter. 

All of us at WSM wish you and yours the best of everything and hope by 1966 we can get together again. 

Sincerely, 

Ott Devine 

While Leroy never had his Opry membership restored, he did come back to make appearances on the Opry, one of which took place 56 years ago on Saturday January 18, 1969. Here is the running order from that night: 

7:30: Standard Candy
Glaser Brothers (host): Where Has All The Love Gone
Stu Phillips: Juanita Jones
Jean Shepard: I Thought Of You/It Wasn't God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels/A Dear John Letter
Glaser Brothers: Stand Beside Me
Lonzo & Oscar: Love Took My Heart & Smashed That Sucker Flat
Archie Campbell & Lorene Mann: Warm & Tender Love
Stu Phillips: Bring Love Back Into Our World

8:00: Martha White
Jim Ed Brown (host): Happy Tracks
Skeeter Davis: The Closest Thing To Love
Jim & Jesse: When The Snow Is On The Roses
Crook Brothers: Black Mountain Rag
Jim Ed Brown: The Longest Beer Of The Night
Cousin Jody: Cripple Creek
Skeeter Davis: Going Down The Road Feeling Bad
Jim & Jesse: Diesel On My Tail

8:30: Stephens
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Charlie Walker: Honky Tonk Season
Norma Jean: One Man Band
Leroy Van Dyke: Oklahoma Hills
Roy Acuff: Pan American
Charlie Walker: Don't Squeeze My Sharmon
Norma Jean: Heaven Help The Working Girl
Leroy Van Dyke: Walk On By/Auctioneer

9:00: Luzianne
Bill Monroe (host): Virginia Darling
Billy Grammer: Detroit City
Margie Bowes: All The World Is Lonely Now
Justin Tubb: I'm Going Back To Louisiana
Bill Monroe: On & On
Del Wood: Bill Bailey
Billy Grammer: The Real Thing
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Nubbing Ridge

9:30: Kellogg's
Billy Walker (host): I Taught Her Everything She Knows
Willis Brothers: Bob
Dottie West: Reno
Ernie Ashworth: Sad Face
Billy Walker: From The Bottle To The Bottom
Stringbean: Little Pink
Willis Brothers: Moonlight Drive In A Diesel
Dottie West: Today I Started Loving You Again

10:00: Fender
Glaser Brothers (host): Gone On The Other Hand
Stu Phillips: Little Old Wine Drinker Me
Lonzo & Oscar: Uncle Pen
Justin Tubb: As Long As There's A Sunday
Jim Glaser: Please Take Me Back

10:15: Pure
Jim Ed Brown (host): Love Of The Common People
Skeeter Davis: The Closest Thing To Love
Archie Campbell & Lorene Mann: The Dark End Of The Street
Cousin Jody: Mockingbird
Jim Ed Brown: Pop A Top

10:30: Buckley's
Roy Acuff (host): Sunshine Special
Dottie West & Jim Ed Brown: Love Is No Excuse
Del Wood: Tiger Rag
Jim & Jesse: It's A Long, Long Way To The Top Of The World
Roy Acuff: The Great Speckled Bird

10:45: Kent
Bill Monroe (host): Sittin' On Top Of The World
Stringbean: Battle Of New Orleans
Crook Brothers: Cotton-Eyed Joe
Victor Jordan: Bluegrass Breakdown

11:00: Coca Cola
Billy Grammer (host): Columbus Stockade Blues
Willis Brothers: I Still Do
Leroy Van Dyke: A Simple Thing As Love
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Alabama Gal
Billy Grammer: I'm Letting You Go
Willis Brothers: A Cowboy Has To Sing
Leroy Van Dyke: Auctioneer
Sam & Kirk McGee: Nine Pound Hammer

11:30: Lava
Billy Walker (host): Charlie's Shoes/Heartaches By The Number/Slowly
Margie Bowes: Get Your Lie The Way You Want It
Charlie Walker: Honky Tonk Season
Ernie Ashworth: A New Heart
Margie Bowes: Once A Day
Charlie Walker: Precious Memories
Ernie Ashworth: Mind Your Own Business

At the age of 95, Leroy is still active and continues to make personal appearances. In his 50 years-plus career, he has recorded more than 500 songs, dozens of them making the charts. Leroy's big break came in1956 with his composition "The Auctioneer", co-written with Buddy Black, which sold over 2.5 million records. His record of "Walk on By" (1961) was named by Billboard magazine in 1994 as the biggest country single of all time, based on sales, plays, and weeks in the charts. It stayed at number one in the U.S. country chart for 19 weeks, and in all, charted for 42 weeks, reaching number five on the pop listings. It sold more than 1.5 million copies. Following "Walk on By" his 1962 single, "If a Woman Answers (Hang Up The Phone)" was his final Top 10 hit. 

Finally, Buck White and The Whites became members of the Grand Ole Opry on Saturday March 3, 1984, In memory of Buck, here is the running order from that night 40+ years ago: 

1st show
6:30: Mrs. Grissoms
Bill Monroe (host): Will You Be Lovin' Another Man
Jeannie Seely: When Your Heart's Been Stepped On
Bill Monroe: Shenandoah Breakdown

6:45: Rudy's
Grandpa Jones (host): Little Ol' Gal A' Waitin'
Jan Howard: Rock Me Back To Little Rock
Stonewall Jackson: Why I'm Walkin'
Grandpa Jones: I'll Meet You In The Morning

7:00: Shoney's
Porter Wagoner (host): Ole Slewfoot
Skeeter Davis: I Ain't Never
Charlie Louvin: Something To Brag About
Lonzo & Oscar: I'm My Own Grandpa
Ray Pillow: Please Don't Leave Me Anymore
Porter Wagoner: The Cowboy's Hat/Tennessee Saturday Night

7:30: Standard Candy
Bill Anderson (host): Southern Fried
Jeanne Pruet: Temporarily Yours
The Whites: The Cowboy Lives Forever/You Put The Blue In Me
Bill Carlisle: Elvira
Crook Brothers & The Melvin Sloan Dancers: Liberty
Bill Anderson: From Rock N' Roll To Rock Of Ages

8:00: Martha White
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Minnie Pearl: Maple On The Hill
Jack Greene: There Goes My Everything
Connie Smith: I'm Only In It For The Love/Sing, Sing, Sing

8:30: Acme
Hank Snow (host): I've Been Everywhere
The 4 Guys: Wings Of A Dove
Tom T Hall: Sneaky Snake/I Love
Jean Shepard: Slippin' Away
Hank Snow: Paper Roses

2nd show
9:30: Dollar General
Porter Wagoner (host): Ole Slewfoot
The 4 Guys: Marie, The Dawn Is Breaking
Jeannie Seely: When Your Heart's Been Stepped On
Billy Walker: Cross The Brazos At Waco
The Whites: Give Me Back That Old Familiar Feeling/Alabama Jubilee
Porter Wagoner: Alive & Well

10:00: Little Debbie
Bill Monroe (host): My Sweet Blue-Eyed Darling
Charlie Walker: My Window Faces The South
Jan Howard: Rollin' In My Sweet Baby's Arms
Bill Monroe: It's Me Again, Lord

10:15: Sunbeam
Grandpa Jones (host): Banjo Sam
Skeeter Davis: The Rose
Stonewall Jackson: Angry Words
Grandpa Jones & George McCormick: Wait A Little Longer, Please Jesus

10:30: Martha White
Roy Acuff (host): Meeting In The Air
Connie Smith: That's The Way Love Goes
Roy Acuff: I'll Fly Away

10:45: Beechnut
Bill Anderson (host): Country D.J. 
Jeanne Pruett: It's Too Late
Crook Brothers & The Melvin Sloan Dancers: Sally Goodin
Bill Anderson: Still

11:00: Coca Cola
Hank Snow (host): There's A Fool Such As I
Jean Shepard: If You've Got The Money, I've Got The Time/The Wonders You Perform
Justin Tubb: Pull The Covers Over Me
Charlie Louvin: Love Has To Die
Hank Snow: Nobody's Child

11:30: Hardee's
Jack Greene (host): Midnight Tennessee Woman
Bill Carlisle: Have A Drink On Me/Oh, What A Party
Tom T Hall: Your Man Loves You Honey/Old Dogs & Children & Watermelon Wine
Jack Greene: There Goes My Everything

God Speed Buck White. 


There you have it for this week. Thanks for reading and commenting and I hope everyone enjoys the Grand Ole Opry this weekend. 

Grand Ole Opry 1/10 & 1/11 (Update)

Update: Due to weather conditions in Nashville, the Friday Night Opry has been cancelled for tonight. 

Opry100 continues this weekend with two shows at the Ryman Auditorium as the Grand Ole Opry continues to pay tribute to one of its former homes. The shows this week look very, very good with a number of Grand Ole Opry members on the schedule. 

Taking a look at the Friday Night Opry, Grand Ole Opry members Kelsea Ballerini, Ashley McBryde, Steve Wariner, Riders In The Sky, John Conlee and Old Crow Medicine Show are all on the schedule. 

Old Crow Medicine Show is back on the schedule for Saturday night, joined one of the Opry's newest members, Lainey Wilson. Marty Stuart will be appearing, as will comedian Henry Cho, along with Mandy Barnett, and Mark Wills, who will be celebrating his 5th anniversary as a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Steve Earle, who is not an Opry member but has been a frequent guest on the show, is also on the schedule. 

Hayes Carll is the only non-member scheduled for the Friday Night Opry, while Drew Parker and Steve Earle, who is not an Opry member but recently has been a frequent guest on this show, is also on the schedule. Could there be a surprise on Saturday night? No, I do not have any insider knowledge, just putting that out there. 

Friday January 10
7:00: Riders In The Sky, John Conlee, Hayes Carll, Old Crow Medicine Show
Intermission
8:20: Ashley McBryde, Steve Wariner, Kelsea Ballerini

Saturday January 11
7:00: Opry Square Dancers, Mark Wills, Mandy Barnett, Steve Earle, Old Crow Medicine Show
Intermission
8:20: Drew Parker, Henry Cho, Marty Stuart, Lainey Wilson

Of note: Trace Adkins was originally listed but is now off the schedule. Also, the Nashville area is forecast to receive 2-5 inches of snow in the coming days. Hopefully that will not have a major effect on the lineup for this weekend. 

As the Grand Ole Opry celebrates its 100th anniversary, throughout the year I wanted to spotlight a few of the Grand Ole Opry members who have passed on. This week, the spotlight is on Mel McDaniel, who became a member of the Grand Ole Opry on Saturday January 11, 1986. 

 From the Nashville Tennessean, January 10, 1986:

Red hot Capital Records hit maker; Mel McDaniel becomes a cast member of the Grand Ole Opry tomorrow night. "Mel is one of today's most exciting artists" said Opry general Manager Hal Durham in announcing the news earlier this week. "He has an unlimited future as a performer and songwriter. We're very happy that Mel McDaniel has joined the Grand Ole Opry family." 

McDaniel's smash 1984 #1 hit "Baby's Got Her Blue Jeans On" was nominated as Single of the Year by the Country Music Association, and "Mellow Mel" snared a Horizon Award nomination because of the runaway success he's enjoyed lately. He rocked out on a remake of Chuck Berry's "Let It Roll" late last year. Another rousing up-tempo number, "Stand Up" started 1986 off right for McDaniel. 

The Oklahoma native has been known for releasing quality singles since he arrived on the Nashville country music scene in 1976, the year that "Have a Dream on Me" made the popularity charts. The first breakthrough came in 1981 when "Louisiana Saturday Night" and "Right in the Palm of Your Hand" became Mel McDaniel's first Top 10 hits. Besides being a fine song interpreter, McDaniel has a solid reputation as a writer. His self-composed 1978 hit "God Made Love" remains one of the most sensitive romantic ballads in the annals of modern Music Row songwriting. Perhaps most significant of McDaniel's songwriting efforts, in light of this weekend's honor, is "The Grandest Lady of Then All" a tribute song to country music's most lasting and loved institution. A hit for Conway Twitty in 1978, the number has since become something of a theme song at the Opry. 

Here is the posted lineup from Saturday January 11, 1986, the night Mel McDaniel became a member of the Grand Ole Opry: 

1st show
6:30: Bill Monroe (host): Charlie Louvin
6:45: Grandpa Jones (host): Jan Howard
7:00: Jimmy Dickens (host): Lorrie Morgan, Jimmy C Newman, Mel McDaniel
7:30: Roy Acuff (host): Jim Ed Brown, Jack Greene, Connie Smith, Crook Brothers
8:00: Porter Wagoner (host): Jeanne Pruett, Tom T. Hall, Riders In The Sky
8:30: Hank Snow (host): Jean Shepard, The Whites, Boxcar Willie, Roy Drusky

2nd show
9:30: Bill Anderson (host): Wilma Lee Cooper, Ray Pillow, Mel McDaniel, Jeannie Seely 
10:00: Bill Monroe (host): Stonewall Jackson, The Carlisles
10:15: Roy Acuff (host): Jimmy Dickens
10:30: Grandpa Jones (host): Tom T Hall
10:45: Porter Wagoner (host): Boxcar Willie, Crook Brothers, Stoney Mountain Cloggers
11:00: Hank Snow (host): Jean Shepard, The Whites, Jim Ed Brown, Justin Tubb, Connie Smith
11:30: Jack Greene (host): Jeanne Pruett, Riders In The Sky, Johnny Russell 

Now the actual running order from the late show that night: 

9:30: Dollar General
Bill Anderson (host): Southern Fried
Ray Pillow: I Wonder Where You Are Tonight
Wilma Lee Cooper: Sweeter Than The Flowers
Mel McDaniel: Stand Up/Baby's Got Her Blue Jeans On
Jeannie Seely: I'll Be Around When It's Over
Bill Anderson: Still

10:00: Little Debbie
Bill Monroe (host): Mary Jane, Won't You Be Mine
Stonewall Jackson: Muddy Water
Bill Carlisle: No Help Wanted
Bill Monroe: Kentucky Waltz

10:15: Sunbeam
Roy Acuff (host): Meeting In The Air
Jimmy Dickens: Take An Old Cold Tater/Out Behind The Barn
Howdy Forrester: Smokey Mountain Rag

10:30: Martha White
Grandpa Jones (host): No More Jesse James
Tom T. Hall: Ballad Of 40 Dollars/Me & Jesse
Grandpa & Ramona Jones: I Wonder Where My Darling Is Tonight

10:45: Heinz
Porter Wagoner (host): On A Highway Headed South
Boxcar Willie: Fireball Mail/Train Of Love/Walking Cane/Wreck Of The Old 97/I'm Moving On/Wabash Cannonball/Night Train To Memphis
Crook Brothers & The Stoney Mountain Cloggers: Bill Cheatham
Porter Wagoner: Your Old Love Letters

11:00: Coca Cola
Hank Snow (host): Hello Love
Jean Shepard: Slippin' Away
The Whites: Swing Down Chariot
Jim Ed Brown: Pop A Top
Justin Tubb: Sing Blue Eyed Elaine Again
Connie Smith: I've Got My Baby On My Mind
Hank Snow: Nevertheless

11:30: Quincy's
Jack Greene (host): (?)
Jeanne Pruett: Heart First
Riders In The Sky: Ride With The Wind
Johnny Russell: Green, Green Grass Of Home/No One Will Ever Know
Jack Greene: There Goes My Everything

Mel McDaniel passed away on March 31, 2011, from lung cancer at the age of 68. His health had been in decline for several years prior to his death. He maintained his Opry membership until he passed. 

There you have it for this week as Orpy100 continues. As always, thanks for reading and commenting and I hope everyone enjoys the Grand Ole Opry at the Ryman Auditorium this weekend. 

Grand Ole Opry 1/3 & 1/4

Welcome to 2025 and the start of Opry100. a yearlong celebration of the Grand Ole Opry's 100th anniversary. As posted on the Opry's website, Opry 100 is going to be the most thrilling year in country music, and we want to celebrate with you. All year long, the Opry will have bigger shows, bolder moments, huge stars, and surprise guests, delivering a fresh mix of your favorites and fresh sounds. Be there as we push the boundaries of country music and the Opry with our most ambitious and exciting shows. 

The celebration gets underway this weekend at the Ryman Auditorium as the Opry returns to its most famous former home. The Opry will be taking place at the Ryman for the first two weekends of the year, along with the third Friday night before returning to the Grand Ole Opry House on January 18. 

What better way to kick off the Opry's 100th year than with the longest tenured member in the history of the Grand Ole Opry, as Bill Anderson is on the schedule for the Friday Night Opry. He will be joined by Grand Ole Opry members Craig Morgan, Mandy Barnett and a trio of Hall of Fame members: Charlie McCoy, Connie Smith and Don Schlitz. 

Guesting on the Friday Night Opry will be Charlie Worsham and The Travelin' McCourys, both of whom have appeared on the Opry numerous times. In fact, The Travelin' McCourys is basically the Del McCoury Band without Del. 

Opry member Mandy Barnett is back on Saturday night, along with Dailey & Vincent and Riders In The Sky. 

Guesting will be comedian Aaron Weber, Taylor Hicks, Grace Bowers, who made her Opry debut in 2024, and The Shootouts. 

Friday January 3
7:00: Bill Anderson, The Travelin' McCoury's, Connie Smith, Don Schlitz
Intermission
8:20: Charlie McCoy, Mandy Barnett, Charlie Worsham, Craig Morgan

Saturday January 4
7:00: Opry Square Dancers, Dailey & Vincent, Mandy Barnett, Taylor Hicks, The Shootouts
Intermission
8:20: Charlie McCoy, Aaron Weber, Grace Bowers Riders In The Sky

Taking a look back, on Saturday January 4, 2003, Hank Williams Jr. and Hank Williams III performed together on a show that marked the 50th anniversary of the death of Grand Ole Opry legend Hank Williams. 

Taking a look back on the tribute show upon the 50th anniversary of the death of Hank Williams, here is the running order from that night, January 4, 2003: 

1st show
6:30: Tennessee Pride
John Conlee (host): The Carpenter
Jimmy C Newman: Big Mamou/Cajun Stripper
Jack Greene: Try A Little Kindness/Don't You Ever Get Tired Of Hurting Me
John Conlee: She's Mine

7:00: Gutter Guard
Hank Williams III: Howling At The Moon/Thrown Out Of The Bar
Jimmy Dickens: Jambalaya/Take An Old Cold Tater
The Whites: Move It On Over
Vince Gill: I'm So Lonesome I Could Cry

7:30: Standard Candy
Hank Williams, Jr: Honky Tonk Blues/Kawliga/Long Gone Lonesome Blues/Tee Tot Blues/All My Rowdy Friends Are Coming Over Tonight/There's A Tear In My Beer
Grand Ole Opry Cast: I Saw The Light

8:00: Martha White
Porter Wagoner (host): Howdy Neighbor Howdy
Riders In The Sky: Happy Roving Cowboy/The Mystery Of His Way
Jim Lauderdale: If I Were You/The King Of The Broken Hearts
Opry Square Dance Band & The Grand Ole Opry Square Dancers: Liberty
Porter Wagoner: Why Don't You Haul Off & Love Me

8:30: Tootsie's
Bill Anderson (host): Southern Fried
Osborne Brothers: Rocky Top
Holly Dunn: Devil, Stand Back
Joe Nichols: The Impossible/Farewell Party/Broken Heartsville
Bill Anderson: Pictures From Life's Other Side

2nd show
9:30: online.com
Jimmy Dickens (host): Sleepin' At The Foot Of The Bed
Jeannie Seely: Hey, Good Lookin'/Together Again
Hank Williams III: A Fool About You/I'll Never Get Out Of This World Alive
Jimmy Dickens: I'd Rather Sleep In Peace Than Know You're Gone

10:00: Opry Tours
Porter Wagoner (host): Katy Did
Jimmy C Newman: Jambalaya
Billy Walker: Funny How Time Slips Away
The Whites: Mansion On The Hill/Move It On Over
Porter Wagoner: House Of Gold

10:30: online.com
John Conlee (host): How High Did You Go
Stu Phillips: Blue Canadian Rockies
Jack Greene: Highway To The Sky/Statue Of A Fool
Opry Square Dance Band & The Grand Ole Opry Square Dancers: Cherokee Shuffle
John Conlee: Rose Colored Glasses

11:00: Coca Cola
Bill Anderson (host): Get A Little Dirt On Your Hands
Osborne Brothers: Pathway Of Teardrops/Midnight Flyer
Joe Nichols: Broken Heartsville/The Impossible
Bill Anderson: Wedding Bells

11:30: Tootsie's
Riders In The Sky (host): We're Burning Moonlight
Ray Pillow: Too Many Memories
Holly Dunn: That's What Your Love Does To Me
Jim Lauderdale: We're Gone/I'll Follow You Anywhere
Riders In The Sky: Give Me A Pinto Pal/Happy Trails To You

In addition to the tribute to Hank Williams, the show that night was dedicated to Jim McReynolds, who had passed away the prior week. Grand Ole Opry General Manager Pete Fisher began the first show with the following tribute: 

Good evening, Ladies and Gentlemen: On this night in which we honor one of country music's greatest legends, we also pause to dedicate this performance of the Opry to Jim McReynolds, one half of the longtime Opry duo Jim & Jesse, who passed away this past Tuesday at age 75 from a battle with cancer. Jim and his brother were born into a musical family in the mountains of southwest Virginia. Their grandfather Charles McReynolds had taken part in the landmark Bristol sessions of Jimmy Rodgers and The Carter Family when Jim was born. Both sides of the brother's family were steeped in music, as much so that neither brother could recall having to learn to play his signature guitar or mandolin. There were always instruments around the house, Jim said, so it would be hard to say when we started. 

Having embarked on a professional career in 1947, Jim and Jesse's 55 years of making music together is a record. No other family act, in the history of American music, has actively performed together for a longer period of time. Jim, who sang a clear polished tenor, and played guitar while Jesse contributed lead vocals in mandolin playing, together with their Virginia Boys, they were regulars on a succession of radio shows from their native Virginia to Ohio, to Kansas early in their careers. A recording contract with Capital Records, during this period produced the cut "Are You Missing Me," which became a bluegrass classic, and a staple of their stage shows. 

Following many guest appearances under the sponsorship of Martha White Flour, Jim and Jesse obtained a lifelong goal, becoming members of the Opry on March 2, 1964. The Opry stage served as a springboard for Jim and Jesse's traditional bluegrass sound. They starred on their own syndicated TV show, the Jim and Jesse Show, from 1965-1972; literally crisscrossed the world playing at bluegrass festivals, and recorded more than 50 albums including chart hits like "Better Time's A' Comin'" "Diesel On My Tail" "Freight Train" and "Paradise," Their contributions to the music they loved were recognized in 1993 when Jim and Jesse were inducted into the Bluegrass Music's International Hall of Honor. Indeed, their music took them from their Virginia homeplace to the Opry House to the White House as the brother duo received the National Endowment for the Arts National Heritage Fellowship, the most prestigious honor in Folk and Traditional Arts at a Washington D.C. ceremony in 1997.

This evening, we salute a family man, a musical partner, and a much-loved member of the Opry. Music was one of his earliest memories as well as an enduring gift to all of us. He made his final stage performance on this stage, on this past November 23. Tonight, the Opry honors a Virginia Boy and an Opry gentleman, Jim McReynolds. 

A wonderful and heartfelt tribute by Pete Fisher. 

There you have it for this weekend as the Opry begins its 100th anniversary. As always, thanks for reading and commenting and I hope everyone enjoys the Grand Ole Opry at the Ryman Auditorium this weekend. 

January Opry Highlights

January marks the start of Opry100, as the Grand Ole Opry begins a yearlong celebration to honor and recognize the Opry's 100th anniversary. There will be many highlights during the year, which will include many looks back at historical moments in the history of the Grand Ole Opry. 

Those moments that took place during the month of January include: 

January 29, 1927: George Wilkerson made his first appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. Later that same year, he would introduce his string band, The Fruit Jar Drinkers, to the Opry audience. The Fruit Jar Drinkers, in one form or another, would remain a part of the Opry until the late 1980s. 

January 23, 1937: The Lakeland Sisters, Mary and Ann, made their Grand Ole Opry debut. They would only remain with the Opry for about 18 months, making their final appearance on June 4, 1938.

January 1, 1938: Texas Ruby made her debut on the Grand Ole Opry. She performed that night with her future husband, Curly Fox. 

January 7, 1939: While there is some debate on this, and it is open to discussion, one source has this date as the first appearance of Brother Oswald performing with Roy Acuff on the Opry. This is also the date that the comedy duo of Jamup & Honey made their debut on the Opry. 

January 14, 1939: The Dixieliners made their final appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. Consisting of early WSM Barn Dance stars Arthur Smith, along with Sam & Kirk McGee, they made their debut in 1932. While Th Dixieliners would disappear, those who made up the group would continue, both individually and in other groups. 

January 16, 1943: Ernest Tubb made his debut on the Grand Ole Opry. Ernest was so well received that he was offered membership and officially would join the Opry the following month. Over time, Ernest would become one of the legendary members of the Opry and would continue as an Opry member until his death.

January 7, 1950: The legendary Hank Snow, the Singing Ranger, made his first appearance on the Grand Ole Opry and was also made an Opry member that night. Yes, they did things a little differently in those days. Originally from Canada, Hank came to the Opry via Dallas, Texas, thanks to the help and recommendation of Ernest Tubb. That night, Ernest introduced Hank by saying, "From up Canada way, here's the newest member of the Grand Ole Opry, the Singing Ranger, Hank Snow." Hank sang "Brand On My Heart," which had been a big hit for him up in Canada, and a regional hit in the Dallas area. Hank felt that his Opry debut did not go over very well and that he received little audience response. In fact, he told his wife Min that he was not going back. However, she convinced Hank that he owed it to Ernest to return. He went back, and when things did not improve in the coming months, the Opry was considering letting him go. However, "I'm Moving On" was released and the rest is history. Hank remained an Opry member for the next 49 years, until his death in December 1999.

January 7, 1950: On the same night that Hank Snow joined the Opry, Tennessee Ernie Ford made his Grand Ole Opry debut. Unlike Hank, Tennessee Ernie was already an established star and appeared on the Prince Albert portion of the show. While he never became a member, Ernie had an open invitation to appear on the Opry anytime he was in Nashville, and he would often take the Opry up on their offer. In later years, he would appear on the Martha White segment, as he was friends with the ownership of the company.

January 1, 1953: Hank Williams was found dead in the backseat of his car in West Virginia. He was being driving to a New Year's Day appearance in Canton, Ohio. Also booked on the show that night were Jimmy Dickens and June Webb, among others. Jimmy ended up not making the trip due to the weather, while the other artists scheduled to appear went ahead and did the show as a tribute to Hank. As a resident of Canton, I can tell you that the auditorium where the show was to take place is still standing and in use today.

January 16, 1953: Opry member Bill Monroe was seriously injured in a head-on car accident on Highway 31 in White House, Tennessee. Bill suffered 19 broken bones in the accident.

January 19, 1953: Marty Robbins made his Grand Ole Opry debut. Marty would join the cast shortly afterwards. As time went on, Marty would become one of the Opry's most beloved members. 

January 22, 1953: The Ozark Jubilee premiered on the ABC television network. The show was hosted by former Opry member Red Foley, who left Nashville and moved to Springfield, Missouri to host the show. While he would be missed in Nashville, Red did well on the Ozark Jubilee. 

January 29, 1954: Theron Hale passed away. Theron was one of the early members of the Grand Ole Opry, becoming a regular in 1926. He stayed as an Opry regular into the 1930s, after which he would make occasional appearances with Sam McGee. While he was at the Opry, he would be introduced as "Theron Hale and Daughters," which were Elizabeth and Mamie Ruth.

January 1, 1955: Lester Flatt and Earl Scruggs moved to Nashville, where they began appearing on WSM Radio and Television, along with regular appearances on the Grand Ole Opry. 

January 22, 1955: Porter Wagoner made his first appearance as a guest on the Opry. He would return and in February 1957, Porter would become an Opry member, a membership that he would hold until passing away in the fall of 2007. 

January 12, 1957: Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper became members of the Grand Ole Opry. The Coopers, along with daughter Carol Lee, came to the Opry from the WWVA Wheeling Jamboree, where they were very popular. Stoney would remain with the Opry until his death in 1977. Wilma Lee would continue with the Opry as a solo act and later celebrated 50 years of Opry membership.

January 1, 1960: Although there is some debate as to the exact date, it would appear this is when Billy Walker became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Billy would remain an Opry member until his death in a car accident in 2006. Billy was a very loyal member of the Opry and later in his career, he would often speak up over the reduction of his Opry appearances.

January 9, 1960: Patsy Cline became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. While her time at the Opry was very short, Patsy was very influential to a number of female artists, including Loretta Lynn and Dottie West. In a pretty famous story as to how she became an Opry member, after one of her Opry guest performances, she approached Opry manager Ott Devine and asked if she might one day become a member. Ott responded by saying, "Patsy, if that's all you want, you are on the Opry."

January 28, 1961: Dottie West made her debut as a guest on the Grand Ole Opry. Over the next several years, Dottie would make several guest appearances, which would eventually lead to an invitation to become an Opry member. On this same night, there was another Opry debut as Jim & Jesse made their initial appearance on the Opry. 

January 9, 1965: Norma Jean became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Much as Dolly Parton would do a few years later, Norma Jean joined the cast as she was performing as part of Porter Wagoner's show. Norma Jean left Porter's show a few years later and would remain a member of the Opry until August 1969. 

January 8, 1966: Grand Ole Opry member Sonny James appeared on the Opry for the final time as an Opry member. Sonny had joined the cast in October 1962. Like others, he just felt it was time to move on and make more money on a Saturday night. 

January 1, 1967: Former Grand Ole Opry member Moon Mullican passed away from a heart attack at his Texas home. He was known as the "King of the Hillbilly Piano Players." He had been a part of the Opry during the early 1950s. 

January 7, 1967: Charley Pride became the first black solo singer to perform on the Opry. He was introduced that night by Ernest Tubb. Charley sang "The Snakes Crawl At Night," and "I Can't Help It If I'm Still In Love with You." Shortly afterwards, he was asked to become an Opry member but declined due to his heavy touring schedule. Over the years, he would be asked several more times, until finally in 1993 he accepted the invitation to join. He was the 2nd black artist to become an Opry member, following DeFord Bailey. (Just to clarify, DeFord Bailey was a noted harmonica player and not a solo singer).

January 21, 1967: Over the years, non-country acts have appeared on the Grand Ole Opry and on this date, it was Eddie Albert who appeared. Eddie, of course, not only was a fine actor, but he also starred in the CBS show "Green Acres."

January 4, 1969: Dolly Parton became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. This will be Dolly's 56th year as an Opry member. Back in the early days when she was with Porter Wagoner, Dolly was a frequent visitor at the Opry. However, as her career expanded, she became like many others as someone who hardly ever appeared on the show. She even commented once that if she was in charge of the Opry, she would fire herself. It was Carl and Pearl Butler, former Opry members, who took a liking to Dolly and helped to bring her to Nashville when she was just 12 years old. While it was a long time ago, Dolly remembered her first night guesting on the Opry: "They used to have this Friday Night Frolics and I went up there one night with the intention of being on it. I kept telling everyone I'll sing just one song. Most of the Opry artists had two spots on the show and I walked up to Jimmy C Newman, who was going to sing his second song next and I told him I wanted to be on. I didn't know why he did it, but Jimmy gave me his spot and I sang a George Jones song." While Dolly didn't know why Jimmy C did it that night, I think she came to realize that was the type of person Jimmy C Newman was. While January 4 is her induction date, the first Saturday in which Dolly appeared on the Opry as a member was actually the following Saturday, January 11. 

January 11, 1969: George Jones rejoined the cast of the Grand Ole Opry. Over the course of his career, George would join and leave the Opry several different times. In fact, depending on the edition of the Grand Ole Opry Picture History Book that you have, you could find literally a half dozen different dates. 

January 1, 1971: Tom T. Hall became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. After joining the Opry in 1971, he left in June 1974 and then rejoined in 1980. Sadly, Tom T. passed away in 2021 after a long period of inactivity. 

January 29, 1972: George Hamilton appeared on the Opry for the final time before giving up his Opry membership. George was doing a lot of traveling and moved back to North Carolina. He would rejoin the Opry several years later. 

January 13, 1973: Ernest Tubb celebrated his 30th anniversary as a member of the Grand Ole Opry.

January 20, 1973: For the first time, Jerry Lee Lewis performed on the Opry. He had always wanted to perform on the show; however, the Opry management was afraid to invite him, fearing what he would do onstage. For this appearance, management asked Jerry Lee not to do any rock and roll. He agreed then broke the promise. Appearing on the 11:30 segment hosted by Charlie Walker, he was on stage for almost 40 minutes and did several numbers that management had asked him not to do. In a nice gesture, he invited Del Wood to appear with him onstage, saying later that on a previous backstage visit, Del was the only Opry member that was nice to him. While Opry management was not pleased with his initial appearance, Jerry Lee did appear on the Opry at least one more time, in August 1995. 

January 27, 1973: Marty Robbins celebrated his 20th anniversary as a member of the Opry.

January 2, 1974: Grand Ole Opry member Tex Ritter passed away after suffering a heart attack. Tex joined the Opry in 1965 and enjoyed being in Nashville and as a part of the Opry. Tex was also involved in the early days of the Country Music Association, and he was just the 5th person to be elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame.

January 4, 1975: Hank Snow was honored upon his 25th anniversary as a member of the Grand Ole Opry. 

January 28, 1976: Skeeter Willis, part of the Willis Brothers, passed away at the age of 58. The Willis Brothers first came to the Opry in 1946 and were well known for their western style of music.

January 22, 1977: Grand Ole Opry member Stoney Cooper appeared on the Opry for the final time. Along with his wife Wilma Lee, Stoney had joined the Opry in 1957. Stoney suffered from heart problems and would pass away in March.

January 27, 1979: Sissy Spacek, who played the part of Loretta Lynn in the movie "Coal Miner's Daughter" joined Loretta for an appearance on the Opry.

January 12, 1980: Longtime Opry sponsor Fender sponsored an Opry segment for the final time. The popular guitar company sponsored the 10:00 segment on Saturday night. They would be replaced several weeks later by Little Debbie. 

January 10, 1981: Grand Ole Opry sponsor Union 76 sponsored their last segment on the Opry. The company sponsored the 10:15 segment on the late show Saturday night. 

January 30, 1982: Wilma Lee Cooper was recognized upon her 25th anniversary as a member of the Grand Ole Opry. 

January 20, 1984: Future Grand Ole Opry member Mike Snider made his Opry debut. He was a member of the cast of Hee Haw and was well known for his banjo playing and comedy. 

January 19, 1985: While other females had stepped in on an emergency basis to "MC" a segment of the Grand Ole Opry, Jeannie Seely became the first female to actually host an Opry segment. It had been a long time coming as Jeannie was always expressing her desire to Hal Durham that females should be allowed to host segments on the show. Jeannie opened the door for many others. 

January 25, 1986: The Statler Brothers made a guest appearance on the Opry. The group only appeared on the Opry a handful of times as they believed that Opry members should be the acts appearing on the show. 

January 11, 1986: Mel McDaniel became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Always popular, Mel would remain an Opry member until his death in 2011.

January 14, 1986: During the Opry's televised 60th anniversary special, Reba McEntire was introduced as the newest member of the Grand Ole Opry. While this is the date the show was televised, the taping actually took place the previous November, thus the November taping date is considered Reba's actual Opry induction date. This will be Reba's 39th year as an Opry member.

January 14, 1989: Hubert Gregory of the Fruit Jar Drinkers passed away. Hubert's career at the Opry, as with the Fruit Jar Drinkers, dates back to the early days of the Opry. Like many others of that era, Hubert performed with many different groups, including with Sam & Kirk McGee.

January 14, 1989: Keith Whitley, who was recently elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame, made his final appearance on the Opry. Keith was never an Opry member, but as Lorrie Morgan confirmed, he was in the process of being invited to become a member, an invitation that was scheduled to be given just weeks later. 

January 20, 1990: Hank Snow celebrated his 40th anniversary as a member of the Grand Ole Opry. The televised segment on TNN included a reunion of the Glaser Brothers, who were very friendly with Hank. The reunion did not last as the Glaser Brothers never performed together again. Also appearing with Hank that night was future (or former) Opry member Mel Tillis.

January 10, 1991: Clint Black became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. For Clint, this will be his 34th year as an Opry member. While Clint has never made a whole lot of Opry appearances, it was nice to see him back from a couple for a few shows over the past couple of years. 

January 19, 1991: CBS-TV hosts "The Grand Ole Opry 65th Anniversary Celebration: The New Tradition." The special featured Grand Ole Opry members Roy Acuff, Clint Black, Reba McEntire, Alan Jackson, Ricky Skaggs, Patty Loveless, Vince Gill and several others.

January 25, 1992: Introduced by Roy Acuff, Emmylou Harris became the Opry's newest member. This will be Emmylou's 33rd anniversary as a member of the Opry. Sadly, Emmylou rarely appears on the Opry but when she does it is always a treat. 

January 22, 1994: Hal Ketchum became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Once a pretty regular performer on the show, Hal was forced to retire due to his declining health. Hal Ketchum passed away in November 2021

January 15, 1995: Vic Willis died in a car accident in Nashville. Vic was a long-time member of the Grand Ole Opry, first with his brothers as the Oklahoma Wranglers, later named the Willis Brothers, and later headlining his own group, the Vic Willis Trio. Vic had last appeared on the Friday Night Opry, January 6. Vic was the last of the Willis Brothers. 

January 21, 1995: Brother Oswald, longtime member of Roy Acuff's Smoky Mountain Boys, became an official member of the Grand Ole Opry. At the age of 83, I believe he was the oldest person to join the cast at that time. Oswald came to the Opry in the 1930s with Roy and helped to define the Acuff sound. Thanks to the efforts of Porter Wagoner and Marty Stuart, among others, he became a member. I was there the night of his induction, and it was quite a surprise as I don't seem to remember it being announced much ahead of time. Oswald passed away in 2002.

January 13, 1996: Having joined the cast of the Grand Ole Opry back in November, during the taping of the 70th anniversary special, Martina McBride made her first appearance as an official member of the Grand Ole Opry. On that same night, future Grand Ole Opry member Terri Clark made her Opry debut. 

January 3, 1998: Longtime Grand Ole Opry member Grandpa Jones made his final appearance on the Opry. After hosting his segment on the 2nd show, Grandpa suffered the first of what would be series of strokes. He was taken directly to the hospital from the Opry House. His condition would continue to decline, and he passed away the following month.

January 24, 1998: Grand Ole Opry member Justin Tubb passed away from a sudden illness. He was the son of Opry legend Ernest Tubb and had joined the Opry cast in 1955. At the time of joining, he was the Opry's youngest member. Not only was Justin an excellent singer, but he was also a fine songwriter.

January 9, 1999: Grand Ole Opry member Boxcar Willie made his final appearance on the show. In declining health, Boxcar had first appeared on the Opry in 1981. That night, in tribute to Roy Acuff, who brought Boxcar to the Opry, Boxcar sang "Wabash Cannonball" and "The Great Speckled Bird." 

January 15, 1999: The Grand Ole Opry returned to the Ryman Auditorium for the first time since moving to the new Grand Ole Opry House in 1974. There were three shows that weekend and all were sold out. During the 1st show on Saturday night, Ricky Skaggs invited Trisha Yearwood to become the Opry's newest member. The weekend shows, which I attended, was such a success that the Opry made has made it a point of returning to the Ryman each year. 

January 23, 1999: Grand Ole Opry member Brother Oswald made his final Saturday night Grand Ole Opry appearance. His final Opry show would be a month later on the Friday Night Opry. Due to declining health, Oswald was forced to retire from performing.

January 15, 2000: Bluegrass legend Ralph Stanley became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Patty Loveless handled the official induction. He had been asked just the prior evening if he would like to join. After he said yes, the Opry wasted no time and inducted Ralph the following night. Also appearing on the show that night were Opry members Reba McEntire and Loretta Lynn. 

January 13, 2001: Future Grand Ole Opry members Old Crow Medicine Show made their debut on the Opry stage. Keeping the string band music alive, Old Crow have been wonderful Opry members. 

January 8, 2002: George Jones, BR549's Chuck Mead, Billy Walker and songwriters Dennis Morgan, Shawn Camp and Jack Clement, along with at least 100 other demonstrators, protested at the offices of WSM radio as rumors surfaced that the station was going to change its format from country music to sports. Several weeks later, WSM executives announced that the station would continue the current format of country music, featuring the Grand Ole Opry. Among those at the press conference were Vince Gill, Marty Stuart, Connie Smith and Billy Walker. 

January 4, 2003: Hank Williams Jr and Hank Williams III performed together on the Opry in a show that marked the 50th anniversary of the death of Hank Williams. Also appearing in the tribute that night was Jimmy Dickens, Vince Gill and The Whites

January 6, 2006: The Friday Night Opry was reduced by 30 minutes making it a 2-hour show.

January 28, 2006: Longtime Grand Ole Opry sponsor Standard Candy, the makers of Goo Goo, sponsored an Opry segment for the final time. Standard Candy became an Opry sponsor in September 1967. Over the years, a number of the Opry's announcers would sing that theme song, "Go get a Goo Goo, it's Good." 

January 11, 2007: Grand Ole Opry member Stonewall Jackson filed an age discrimination lawsuit against Gaylord Entertainment and the management of the Grand Ole Opry. Stonewall made several claims and specifically named Pete Fisher. As the lawsuit played out, Stonewall refused to perform on the Opry, even though he had been asked. Eventually the lawsuit was settled out of court, with Stonewall privately saying that Gaylord made a settlement. In the first several years after the settlement, Stonewall did see an increase in his Opry appearances. Stonewall was an Opry member for just over 60 years. After several years of declining health, Stonewall passed away in 2022. 

January 19, 2008: Charlie Daniels became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. He said at the time of his induction that becoming an Opry member was always a dream of his. Marty Stuart and Connie Smith formally inducted Charlie into the Opry. In 2015, Charlie became a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame. Sadly, Charlie passed away in 2020. 

January 26, 2011: After a long illness, longtime Grand Ole Opry member Charlie Louvin passed away. Along with his brother Ira, Charlie joined the Opry in 1955. After Ira's death, Charlie continued as a solo artist.

January 7, 2012: Charlie Collins performed for the final time on the Grand Ole Opry. While never an Opry member, Charlie spent considerable time at the Opry, first coming to the show as a member of Roy Acuff's Smoky Mountain Boys, and then after Roy's death, performing with Brother Oswald and with the Opry Square Dancers.

January 21, 2012: Emmylou Harris celebrated 20 years as a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Vince Gill, Rodney Crowell and Buddy Miller helped Emmylou celebrate that night.

January 2, 2015: Longtime Grand Ole Opry legend Jimmy Dickens passed away in Nashville. Jimmy had been hospitalized after becoming suddenly ill on Christmas Day. Jimmy first joined the Opry in 1948 and at the time of his death, was the Opry's last link to the pre-Hank Williams of the Opry. Much loved, Jimmy was noted for his comedy songs, but let's not forget that he was also a great ballad singer.

January 21, 2015: The Grand Ole Opry House is listed as a pending addition to the National Register of Historic Places. The designation would become official a month later. 

January 2, 2016: Grand Ole Opry member Brad Paisley made a surprise appearance on the Grand Ole Opry to honor Little Jimmy Dickens on the one-year anniversary of Tater's death. Paisley turned in a medley that includes "Country Boy," "Out Behind The Barn," "May The Bird of Paradise Fly Up Your Nose" and "Mountain Dew."

January 9, 2017: Grand Ole Opry Vice President and General Manger Pete Fisher announced that he was resigning his position to move to California and head up the Academy of Country Music. Pete came to the Opry in June 1999 and had been in charge of the Opry for over 17 years. His final Opry show was on January 20.

January 21, 2017: Crystal Gayle became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Crystal has been asked several months previously by Carrie Underwood to join the cast. On the night of her induction, her sister and fellow Opry member Loretta Lynn handed the official induction. This was also the last night in which Loretta appeared on the Opry. 

January 11, 2019: Mark Wills was inducted as a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Mark, who had been a guest on the Opry hundreds of times, was surprised during a December appearance by Vince Gill, who formally invited Mark to become a member.

January 1, 2020: Ryman Hospitality launched a new TV network, Circle, with 16 original shows including "Opry Live," which was advertised as featuring pre-recorded performances from the Grand Ole Opry. Sadly, Circle TV only lasted a couple of years as the network quickly moved away from country music-oriented programming. 

January 10, 2020: Grand Ole Opry member Joe Diffie made his final appearance on the Opry. Joe, who joined the cast in November 1993, passed away in 2020 from Covid.

January 17, 2020: Gene Watson was invited to become a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Vince Gill did the honors of surprising Gene with the invitation, which was long overdue. 

January 24, 2020: Grand Ole Opry member Charley Pride made his final appearance on the Opry. He appeared that night on the Friday night show. Charley, who joined the Opry's cast in May 1993 passed away in December 2021, another of those who passed away from Covid. 

January 21, 2021: Lady A was announced as the newest members of the Grand Ole Opry. Darius Rucker surprised the group with the invite during the taping of the Opry's 95th anniversary television special. Sad to say, their Opry appearances since joining have been very, very few. 

January 6, 2022: Marty Stuart, during a backstage appearance on the Opry, invited comedians Gary Mule Deer and Henry Cho to become members of the Grand Ole Opry. These would be the first comedians to join the Opry's cast in almost 50 years. 

There you have it as the Opry enters its 100th year. 

Grand Ole Opry 12/27 & 12/28

Here we are, at the end of another year. This weekend we will put 2024 in the books and as the Grand Ole Opry will finish out the year with the Friday Night Opry and Saturday's Grand Ole Opry. You never know what you will get at the Opry the week between Christmas and New Years, as many of the artists have completed their schedules for the year and are enjoying the holidays with family and friends. 

Looking at the Friday Night Opry, members Rhonda Vincent, Riders In The Sky and Don Schlitz are listed on the scheduled. Guesting will be Billy Dean, comedian Brian Bates, Mark & Maggie O’Connor, Clay Walker and making her Opry debut, Maggie Baugh. 

On Saturday night, Riders In the Sky and Don Schlitz are back to make it a two-show weekend, joined by fellow members Charlie McCoy, Connie Smith and Dailey & Vincent. The wonderful and talented Malpass Brothers are scheduled, along with Steve Dorff and Paul McDonald. 

Friday December 27
7:00: Rhonda Vincent, Riders In The Sky. Maggie Baugh, Billy Dean
Intermission
8:20: Mark & Maggie O'Connor, Brian Bates, Clay Walker, Don Schlitz

Saturday December 28
7:00: Opry Square Dancers, Dailey & Vincent, Connie Smith, Steve Dorff, Riders In The Sky
Intermission
8:20: Paul McDonald, Charlie McCoy, Opry Square Dancers, The Malpass Brothers, Don Schlitz

(Line-ups subject to change)

Maggie Baugh has been making a name for herself from the age of 12.  Since moving to Nashville in 2018 the multi-instrumentalist has been releasing music and touring both US and internationally.  Most recently, Maggie caught the attention of Keith Urban who asked her to join him in 2024 as his utility player on tour.  In the past year, Maggie has appeared on CMT Awards, Jimmy Fallon, Jimmy Kimmel and the Today Show and performed on stages from the Country Music Hall of Fame to Nissan Stadium.

Maggie Baugh wrote on her Facebook page: I was surprised this morning from my friends at @wsmradio who asked me to make my Grand Ole Opry debut. I cannot believe I am typing this out right now…. I love country music. I have dreamed about stepping into this circle ever since I started. Thank you to the Opry for this honor. Thank you so much to @audmcg2018 @billcodywsm for surprising me. I will be a puddle of tears for the next 11 days…

SEE YOU GUYS DEC 27th!!!!

To finish out the first year at the new Grand Ole Opry House, here is the running order from 50 years ago, Saturday December 28, 1974: 

1st show
6:00: Vietti
George Morgan (host): I Want To Go To Heaven
Billy Grammer: Gotta Travel On
Jim & Jesse: Paradise
Stu Phillips: Let Me Love You All Over Again
George Morgan: The Last Letter
Ernie Ashworth: Honky Tonk Hardwood Floor
Billy Grammer: Wildwood Flower
George Morgan: In The Misty Moonlight

6:30: Mrs. Grissoms
Bill Monroe (host): Rollin' In My Sweet Baby's Arms
Wilburn Brothers: It Looks Like The Sun's Gonna Shine
The 4 Guys: Top Of The World
Bill Monroe: The Gold Rush

6:45: Rudy's 
Porter Wagoner (host): On A Highway Headed South
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper: Did You Think To Pray
Bill Monroe: Too Old To Cut The Mustard
Porter Wagoner: Carolina Moonshiner

7:00: Rudy's
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Charlie Walker: Odds & Ends
Stonewall Jackson: Life To Go
Del Wood: Just Because/Bill Bailey/Beer Barrel Polka
Roy Acuff: Sunshine Special
Charlie Walker: Your Cheating Heart
Stonewall Jackson: Don't Be Late
Roy Acuff: I Saw The Light

7:30: Standard Candy
Ernest Tubb (host): I've Got All The Heartaches I Can Handle
Jean Sheppard: Slipping Away
Archie Campbell: Make Friends
Ray Pillow: Countryfied
Ernest Tubb: Half A Mind
Crook Brothers & The Stoney Mountain Cloggers: Cotton Eyed Joe
Jean Shepard: Poor Sweet Baby
Ernest Tubb: Walking The Floor Over You

8:00: Martha White
Lester Flatt (host): Salty Dog Blues
Charlie Louvin: Love Is The Foundation
Willis Brothers: Truck Stop
Paul Warren: Katy Hill
Lester Flatt: Homestead On The Farm
Charlie Louvin: Will You Visit Me On Sundays
Willis Brothers: Cool Water
Marty Stuart: Rawhide

8:30: Stephens
Hank Snow (host): I'm Moving On
Jeanne Pruett: Satin Sheets
Billy Walker: Funny How Time Slips Away
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Cacklin Hen
Justin Tubb: Sunshine Lade
Jeanne Pruett: Welcome To The Sunshine
Hank Snow: Indian Love Call/I Don't Hurt Anymore

2nd show
9:30: Kellogg's
Porter Wagoner (host): On A Highway Headed South
Willis Brothers: Give Me 40 Acres
Billy Grammer: Wildwood Flower
Barbara Lea: Ain't Love Grand
Bill Carlisle: I'm Moving 
Wilburn Brothers: There Must Be More To Love Than This
Porter Wagoner: Carolina Moonshiner

10:00: Fender
Bill Monroe (host): John Henry
Jim & Jesse: Love Is A Fading Rose
Stonewall Jackson: Don't Be Late
Stu Phillips: Let Me Love You All Over Again
Ernie Ashworth: Each Moment Spent With You

10:15: Union 76
Ernest Tubb (host): In The Jailhouse Now
George Morgan: Release Me
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper: There's A Big Wheel
Charlie Walker: Odds & Ends
The 4 Guys: Hello Walls/Big Bad John/Wings Of A Dove

10:30: Trailblazer
Lester Flatt (host): Little Maggie
Archie Campbell: The Cockfight
Jean Shepard: Poor Sweet Baby
Del Wood: Keep On The Firing Line
Lester Flatt: Maggie's Blues

10:45: Beechnut
Roy Acuff (host): Back In The Country
Ray Pillow: Living In The Sunshine Of Your Love
Crook Brothers & The Stoney Mountain Cloggers: Soldier's Joy
Roy Acuff: Cabin In Gloryland

11:00: Coca Cola
Hank Snow (host): You're Easy To Love
Billy Walker: You Gave Me A Mountain
Charlie Louvin: I Want A Happy Life
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Bill Cheatham
Sam McGee: Wheels
Hank Snow: There's A Fool Such As I

11:30: Elm Hill
Marty Robbins (host): I Walk Alone
Jeanne Pruett: Welcome To The Sunshine/Satin Sheets
Justin Tubb: Bad, Bad Leroy Brown/Loving Arms
Ronnie Robbins: If You Love Me Let Me Know
Marty Robbins: Love Me/Don't Worry/Singing The Blues

(Jimmy C Newman and Dottie West cancelled on both shows)

What a night at the Grand Ole Opry. Every segment on both shows was hosted by either a current or future Country Music Hall of Fame member, and many Opry members were in town over the holidays. Wouldn't it be nice to see a show like this one today? Great memories!!

Finally, to finish up this week and year, let's go back to a lineup from 78 years ago, Saturday December 28, 1946. There are a lot of legendary names who were on the Opry that night to finish out 1946: 

8:00: Purina
Eddy Arnold: Just Because
Crook Brothers: Arkansas Traveler
Rod Brasfield: Jokes
Uncle Dave Macon and Dorris: I'm Going To Dixie
Eddy Arnold: A Petal From A Faded Rose
Jamup and Honey: Jokes
Oklahoma Wranglers: When I Leave This World Behind
Lonzo and Oscar: Somewhere Over The Rainbow
Eddy Arnold: New San Antonio Rose
Fiddle Tune: To Be Selected

8:30: Warren Paint & Color Co. 
Paul Howard: Oklahoma City
Lew Childre: Hang Out The Front Door Key
Bill Monroe: Blue Yodel #4
Milton Estes: Orange Blossom Special
Marie and Clyde: I Hope You See The Star That I Do
Lew and String Beans: Girl I Love Don't Pay Me No Mind
Clyde Moody: Forgive Me
Robert Lunn: Talking Blues
Possum Hunters: Off To Charleston
Bill Monroe: Dear Old Dixie

9:00: Royal Crown
Golden West Cowboys: Mama Don't Allow
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Free A Little Bird
Cowboy Copas: Filipino Baby
Texas Ruby: To Be Selected
Curly Fox: Johnson's Old Gray Mule
Lazy Jim Day: Singing The News
York Brothers: To Be Selected
Jimmy Walker: I'll Forgive If You Will Forget
Bradley Kincaid: Granny's Old Armchair
Shorty Byrd: Orange Blossom Special

9:30: Prince Albert
Red Foley: John Henry
Old Timers: (?)
Duke of Paducah: Jokes
Turner Brothers: Zeb's Mountain Boggie
Red Foley: Rainbow At Midnight
Oak Ridge Quartet: Waiting For My Call To Glory
Minnie Pearl: Jokes
Grandpa Jones: What Will I Do With Baby
Red Foley: Where Could I Go
Square Dancers: Katy Hill

10:00: Wallrite
Chubby: Down Yonder
Bill and Lester: How Will I Explain
Blue Grass Quartet: Little Community Church
Kirk McGee: Chittlin Cooking Time
Lester: Daisy May
Bill: Blue Grass Swing

10:15: Weather House
Paul Howard: With Tears In My Eyes
Uncle Dave Macon and Dorris: Bill Bailey
Clyde Moody: Where're The Old River Flows
Possum Hunters: Green Wood
Paul Howard: My Mary

10:30: Cherokee Mills
Curly Fox: Bully Of The Town
Texas Ruby: Ain't You Sorry That You Lied
Bradley Kincaid: Two Little Frogs
York Brothers: When A Soldier Knocks And Finds Nobody Home
Curly and Ruby: I Want To Live And Love

10:45: Southern Agriculture
Golden West Cowboys: Darling How Can You Forget So Soon
Lou Childre: Rabbit In The Log
Golden West Cowboys: You Were The Cause Of It All
Crook Brothers: Working On The Building
Golden West Cowboys: Flower Of Texas

11:00: Eddy Arnold Songbook
Eddy Arnold: Though I Have Tried
Lily Belle: Some Day
Lonzo and Oscar: Good Old Mountain Dew
Eddy Arnold: Tear Stains On Your Letter

11:15: Ernest Tubb Songbook
Ernest Tubb: Divorce Me C.O.D.
Dot and Smokey: You Blattered My Happy School Days
Short Brothers: Love Me Now
Ernest Tubb: Filipino Baby

11:30: Saf Kill
Wally Fowler: I'll Be Waiting At the Gate
Oklahoma Wranglers: Sing On Brother Sing
Gully Jumpers: Ida Red
Jimmy Walker: No Vacancy
Wally Fowler: Dragging' The Bow

11:45: Michigan Bulb
Milton Estes: Tennessee Central No. 9
Robert Lunn: New River Train
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Molly Neely
Andrews Brothers: Since Dad Passed Away
Milton Estes: That's Why I Worry
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Dixie Home Sweet Home

There you have it. Next week the Opry returns to the Ryman Auditorium to official kick off Opry100, the yearlong celebration as the Opry celebrates its 100th anniversary. It promises to be an eventful and exciting year. 

Until then, I hope everyone has a wonderful final weekend of 2024 and, as always, thanks for reading and commenting. Enjoy the Opry this weekend. 

Grand Ole Opry Saturday December 21

Due to For King & Country performing at the Grand Ole Opry House this week, the only Grand Ole Opry performance will be Saturday night. 

Saturday's show will feature Grand Ole Opry members Connie Smith, T. Graham Brown, Don Schlitz and Mark Wills. Also on the schedule are a couple of artists whose names have been mentioned from time-to-time as possible future members of the Grand Ole Opry: The Bellamy Brothers and Steve Earle. 

Rounding out the lineup is Sister Sadie and making his Grand Ole Opry debut, Kashus Culpepper. 

Saturday December 21
7:00: Opry Square Dancers, Mark Wills, T. Graham Brown, Sister Sadie, Bellamy Brothers
Intermission
8:15: Connie Smith, Opry Square Dancers, Kashus Culpepper, Don Schlitz, Steve Earle

Sunday and Monday will mark the final 2024 shows for Opry Country Christmas. Personally, I think the series of shows this year have been very, very good. More of the same is expected with the final two. Just to recap: 

Sunday December 22
Host: Larry Gatlin
Also Appearing: Gatlin Brothers, Mandy Barnett, Riders In The Sky, Charlie McCoy, Mark Wills, Steven Curtis Chapman, John Berry

Monday December 23
Host: Larry Gatlin
Also Appearing: Gatlin Brothers, Mandy Barnett, Riders In The Sky, Charlie McCoy, Dailey & Vincent, Sunny Sweeney

As we continue to look back at the first year of the new Grand Ole Opry House, here is the running order from 50 years ago, Saturday December 21, 1974:

1st show
6:30: Mrs. Grissoms
Bill Monroe (host): Get Up, John
Stoney & Carolee Cooper: Nobody Darling But Mine
The 4 Guys: Shenandoah
Bill Monroe: A Good Woman's Love

6:45: Rudy's
Del Reeves (host): Girl On The Billboard
Bill Carlisle: No Help Wanted
Ernie Ashworth: Talk Back Trembling Lips
Del Reeves: She Thinks I Still Care

7:00: Rudy's
Roy Drusky (host): Dixie Lily
Stonewall Jackson: Don't Be Angry
Jan Howard: Gentle On My Mind
Roy Drusky: One Day At A Time
Stonewall Jackson: Don't Be Late
Jan Howard: White Christmas
Opry Staff Band: Remington Ride
Roy Drusky: Fraulein

7:30: Standard Candy
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Jean Shepard: Poor Sweet Baby
Billy Grammer: Whispering Hope
Crook Brothers & The Tennessee Travelers: Liberty
Brother Oswald: Columbus Stockade Blues
Jimmy C Newman: Potato Song
Jean Shepard: Slipping Away
Roy Acuff: I Saw The Light

8:00: Martha White
Archie Campbell (host): Make Friends
George Morgan: In The Misty Moonlight
Justin Tubb: Sunshine Lady
Del Wood: Keep On The Firing Line
Phil Campbell: Help Me Make It Through The Night
George Morgan: Release Me

8:30: Stephens
Hank Snow (host): You're Easy To Love
Jeanne Pruett: Welcome To The Sunshine
Stu Phillips: There Must Be Another Way To Say Goodbye
Willis Brothers: Truck Stop
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Bill Cheatham
Jeanne Pruett: Satin Sheets
Hank Snow: Dear Santa Claus

2nd show
9:30: Kellogg's
Bill Monroe (host): Christmas Time's A, Coming
Willis Brothers: Give Me 40 Acres
Jean Shepard: Many Happy Hangovers To You
Del Reeves: Help Me Make It Through The Night
Bill Monroe: I Am A Pilgrim
Stoney & Carolee Cooper: Big Midnight Special
Ernie Ashworth: Honky Tonk Hardwood Floor

10:00: Fender
Roy Acuff (host): Old Time Sunshine Song
Jan Howard: You Win Again
Billy Grammer: Sentimental Journey
Roy Acuff: Cabin In Gloryland

10:15: Union 76
Roy Drusky (host): Don't It Make You Want To Go Home
Bill Carlisle: Leave That Liar Alone
Jimmy C Newman Blue Lonely Winter
Roy Drusky: The Bitter They Are The Harder They Fall

10:30: Trailblazer
Stonewall Jackson (host): Washed My Hands In Muddy Water
The 4 Guys: Turn Your Radio On
Del Wood: There's A Big Wheel
Stonewall Jackson: Don't Be Late

10:45: Beechnut
George Morgan (host): You Turn Me On
Phil Campbell: A Thing Called Love
Crook Brothers & The Tennessee Travelers: (?)
George Morgan: Silent Night

11:00: Coca Cola
Hank Snow (host): Hello Love
Stu Phillips: She Thinks I Still Care
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Old Hen Cackle
Hank Snow: Silent Night
Sam McGee: Farewell Blues/Alabama Jubilee/Just Because
Hank Snow: A Letter To Santa Claus

11:30: Elm Hill
Marty Robbins (host): Singing The Blues
Jeanne Pruett: Satin Sheets/Welcome To The Sunshine
Justin Tubb: Rambling Man/Loving Arms
Ronnie Robbins: If You Love Me, Let Me Know
Marty Robbins: Love Me/I'm Wanting To/El Paso/Devil Woman

(Ray Pillow and Marion Worth were scheduled for both shows but cancelled)

It is interesting that considering it was the weekend before Christmas, that there was not a whole lot of Christmas or holiday music on the Opry that night. Also, many of the big names were missing, getting in those final tour dates before the end of the year. 

Finally, on December 21, 2001, future Grand Ole Opry member Josh Turner made his Opry debut. Here is the lineup from that Friday night: 

7:30: Riders In The Sky (host): Jimmy C Newman, Jim & Jesse, BR549
8:00: Jeannie Seely (host): Bill Carlisle, Jan Howard, Mel McDaniel
8:30: Mike Snider (host): Billy Walker, Charlie Louvin, Gene Watson
9:00: Bill Anderson (host): Josh Turner, Charlie Walker, Marty Stuart
9:30: Jim Ed Brown (host): Del McCoury Band, Emmylou Harris

A very solid lineup. 

As I conclude this week, along with Miss Casey, I want to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all of my readers. Without you, there would be no reason for me to do what I do. As I wrote at Thanksgiving, I appreciate each and every one of you. Be safe and enjoy this holiday season. 

Grand Ole Opry 12/13 & 12/14

There are only five more Grand Ole Opry shows in 2024 and two of them will be taking place this weekend. 

Starting with the Friday Night Opry, Opry members on the schedule include John Conlee, Connie Smith, Don Schlitz and Del McCoury. Opry NextStage artist Ernest heads up the list of non-members on the show, along with Jake Worthington, Cody Jinks and making her Opry debut, Maggie Antone. 

Don Schlitz is back on Saturday night, along with members Bill Anderson, Henry Cho and T. Graham Brown. Sam Williams and Wendy Moten are on the schedule, along with Andrew Farriss, who will be making his solo Grand Ole Opry debut. 

Friday December 13
7:00: Del McCoury Band, Maggie Antone, John Conlee, ERNEST
Intermission
8:20: Jake Worthington, Connie Smith, Cody Jinks, Don Schlitz

Saturday December 14

7:00: Opry Square Dancers, T. Graham Brown, Wendy Moten, Sam Williams, Don Schlitz

Intermission

8:20: Bill Anderson, Opry Square Dancers, Henry Cho, Andrew Farriss

Maggie Antone shared her thoughts on social media regarding her Opry debut, "What an honor it is to be invited to step into that circle. It feels like a fairytale come true."

It has been a year of major accomplishments for Antone. She released her full-length debut album Rhinestoned, which received widespread acclaim, and hit the road alongside artists such as Brent Cobb, Ella Langley, Willow Avalon, and 49 Winchester. She’s also appeared on several festival lineups and made notable guest appearances, including on 49 Winchester’s Leavin’ This Holler.

Andrew Farriss wrote this regarding his Opry debut on Saturday night: “Performing at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville is an American dream come true. It really is the home of the country music greats, and I’m also proud to join the ranks of the amazing artists who have performed at this important and historic venue.” 

From Australia, this singer/songwriter is mostly known in the music world for his years with INXS, however he has become a devoted follower of country and Americana music. His 2021 self-titled debut album is all about showing his love and appreciation for American roots and country music, blending Americana, country, and rhythmic rock music. His latest release, ‘Something Stronger,' co-written with acclaimed songwriter Lawrie Minson, captures Farriss’ evolving style. Infused with southern rock and country influences, the track emphasises his deep connection to the American musical landscape. Over the last 15 years, Farriss has built strong collaborations with Nashville-based songwriters, allowing him to seamlessly transition from his rock background into country and Americana.

When the new Grand Ole Opry House opened, it would just be a matter of time until some of the former and retired Grand Ole Opry members would appear to check out the new building. One of those former members was DeFord Bailey. 

The following is from the Nashville Tennessean: 

Saturday was a big day for DeFord Bailey. It was his seventy-fifth birthday, and he made his debut in the new Grand Ole Opry House. The Opry itself was nothing new, of course. His first appearance there was in 1925, just barely a month after the Opry itself made its debut. For more than fifteen years he was probably the most consistent Opry performer, as well as the only black one, and his style of harmonica playing was widely imitated. He left in 1941-some people at the Opry say it was because he insisted on playing the same old tunes-and has performed only seldom since. 

The feeling Saturday night was all warmth. Roy Acuff credited Bailey with helping his career in the early days. "I guess DeFord traveled with us for about six or seven years. I used him whenever I wanted to draw a crowd. DeFord would play and then I'd go on and try to hold their attention." 

Saturday's crowd seemed a little perplexed. Most of them were unfamiliar with his work-it has been a long time since he recorded. Ironically, at least one authority thinks Bailey may have been the first artist ever to record in Nashville-8 sides for RCA Victor in October 1928. But there were plenty of old friends. Alcyone Beasley recalled how her father, the late Dr. Humphrey Bate brought Bailey to the Opry as "the dangdest harmonica player that ever lived." After the stage appearance, there was cake backstage. Some of the faces were familiar from his own performing days, including Sam and Kirk McGee and Herman Crook of the Crook Brothers. 

On stage, Bailey appeared to be saving his breath until he played. He showed a lot of his old style in "It Ain't Gonna Rain No More," "The Pan American Blues," and "Fox Chase."

Now here in the running order from that night 50 years ago, Saturday December 14, 1974: 

1st show
6:30: Mrs. Grissoms

Willis Brothers (host): Truck Stop

Jim and Jesse: Paradise

Ernie Ashworth: Oh, Lonesome Me
Willis Brothers: Buying Popcorn

6:45: Rudy's
Bill Anderson (host): Every Time I Turn The Radio On

Bill Carlisle: Same Old Tale That The Crow Told Me

The 4 Guys: What About Me
Bill Anderson: Proof

7:00: Rudy's

Porter Wagoner (host): On A Highway Headed South

Billy Grammer: Wildwood Flower/Under The Double Eagle

Bob Luman: Let Me Make The Bright Lights Shine For You

Barbara Lea: May You Never Be Alone

Justin Tubb: Loving Arms

Porter Wagoner: Carolina Moonshiner
Billy Grammer: Whispering Hope

Porter Wagoner: Wake Up Jacob

7:30: Standard Candy

Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball

Stoney & Carolee Cooper: Shackles & Chains
Crook Brothers: Eighth Of January

Brother Oswald: Little Darling
DeFord Bailey: Pan American Blues/Ain't Gonna Rain No More/Fox Chase
Carolee Cooper: Forgetting About You
Roy Acuff: I Saw The Light

8:00: Martha White
Lester Flatt (host): Rollin' In My Sweet Baby's Arms

Grandpa & Ramona Jones: Jingle Bells

Connie Smith: I Got My Baby On My Mind

Stu Phillips: Let Me Love You All Over Again

Marty Stuart & Curly Seckler: Christmas Time's A 'Coming

Grandpa & Ramona Jones: It Takes A Lot Of Loving

Connie Smith: How Great Thou Art

Charlie Nixon: Maggie Blues

8:30: Stephens

Roy Drusky (host): Second Hand Rose

Stonewall Jackson: Don't Be Late

Mel Tillis: Heart Over Mind
Fruit Jar Drinkers: (?)

Roy Drusky: The Bitter They Are, The Harder They Fall

Stonewall Jackson: Don't Be Angry

Mel Tillis: Memory Maker/Sawmill

2nd show

9:30: Kellogg's

Bill Anderson (host): (?)

Willis Brothers: Cool Water

Jim & Jesse: Love Is A Fading Rose

Bill Anderson: City Lights

Ernie Ashworth: Honky Tonk Hardwood Floors

Mary Lou Turner: Poor Sweet Baby

Bill Anderson: Every Time I Turn The Radio On

10:00: Fender

Bob Luman (host): Kaw-Liga

Bill Carlisle: I'm Moving

Justin Tubb: Sunshine Lady

Bob Luman: Six Days On The Road

10:15: Union 76

Roy Acuff (host): Back In The Country

Billy Grammer: Somewhere My Love

Roy Acuff: Turn Your Radio On

10:30: Trailblazer

Lester Flatt (host): Great Big Woman & A Little Bitty Bottle Of Wine

Grandpa Jones: Heading South

Connie Smith: Dallas

Lester Flatt: Homestead On The Farm

10:45: Beechnut

The 4 Guys (host): Down By The Lazy River

Stoney & Carolee Cooper: To My Mansion In The Sky

Crook Brothers: Soldier's Joy

The 4 Guys: Let Me Be There

11:00: Coca Cola

Roy Drusky (host): Dixie Lily

Fruit Jar Drinkers: (?)

Mel Tillis: Life Turned Her That Way/Ruby. Don't Take Your Love To Town
Roy Drusky: All For The Love Of A Girl/Three Hearts In A Tangle/Somewhere My Love

Sam McGee: Rollin' In My Sweet Baby's Arms

Harold Weakley: Legend In My Time

Roy Drusky: Anymore

11:30: Elm Hill

Stonewall Jackson (host): Me & You & A Dog Named Boo

Ronnie Robbins: If We Make It Through December/If You Love Me Let Me Know

Stonewall Jackson: Don't Be Late

Stu Phillips: She Thinks I Still Care/Let Me Love You All Over Again

Stonewall Jackson: Washed My Hands In Muddy Water/Don't Be Angry/Waterloo

(Marion Worth was scheduled for both shows but cancelled. Wilma Lee was still sick which is why she did not appear. Also, Skeeter Willis did not appear. Porter Wagoner and DeFord Bailey only appeared on the first show)

Looking at December 14 through the years: 

1973: Lorrie Morgan, age 14, made her first appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. Lorrie was brought on stage by her father, Opry member George Morgan. She sang "Paper Roses."

1991: Wayne Newton made a guest appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. He appeared on the televised segment hosted by Porter Wagoner and sang "I Know So" and "Why Me, Lord." He also appeared on the second show singing the same two songs. 

2002: Toby Keith made his debut on the Grand Ole Opry. While he never became an Opry member, Toby would make a few Opry appearances during his career. 

2013: Rock legend Peter Frampton made his debut on the Opry. That night he performed with Opry member Ricky Skaggs, including the hits "Show Me The Way" and "Baby I Love You."

Finally, I wanted to take a moment and share a post from Jeannie Seely's Facebook page: 

Good morning everyone. It’s been awhile for me to get this together. Thanksgiving morning Gene asked me to call 911 as he was having chest pains and couldn’t breathe. At St. Thomas Hospital they also confirmed that cancer is back. He has been transferred to Lifecare in Old Hickory for care and they are great folks there.  His boys, Gregg, Kevin and Shane are the best. We would be grateful for extra prayers. Gene Ward is one of the most amazing men I have ever known, and I have been so blessed to be his wife.  The river and I have been in tears. 💔😢

Jeannie, I know I speak for all of the readers and followers of the blog as we pass along our prayers and thoughts to you, Gene, and your entire family and support group. 

There you have it for this weekend. Only two more weekends to go in 2024 before Opry100 gets underway in January. As always, thanks for reading and commenting and I hope everyone enjoys the Grand Ole Opry this weekend.