Grand Ole Opry 2/20 & 2/21

Another weekend of solid shows at the Grand Ole Opry, highlighted by a return appearance by Opry members, the Oak Ridge Boys, who are on the schedule for both Friday and Saturday night. You might remember when the Oaks appeared several weekends ago that they brought out Richard Sterban to sing the closing verse of Elvia. For those who may not know, Richard has been battling a very serious health issue and had not appeared with the group since the previous Spring. It will be interesting to see if Richard is with the group again for these upcoming shows. 

Also on the schedule for both nights is comedian Gary Mule Deer. For all of the appearances that we have gotten used to seeing from Gary Mule at the Opry, this will be only his 3rd & 4th shows in 2026. But don't worry; he is down for more on the upcoming schedules.

Joining that pair on Friday night are members Mandy Barnett, Del McCoury and The Whites. Speaking of Mandy, she has taken over the Sirius XM Sunday afternoon show on Willie's Roadhouse that was hosted by Jeannie Seely. I might add that Mandy is doing a great job. 

Guesting on Friday are singer/songwriter Charlie Worsham, The Band Perry and John Foster. 

It will be an all-member show on Saturday night as in addition to the Oaks and Gary Mule, Ashley McBryde, John Conlee, Riders In The Sky, Connie Smith and one of the Opry's newest members, Steve Earle are scheduled. 

Friday February 20
7:00: Mandy Barnett, The Whites, Del McCoury Band, John Foster
Intermission
8:20: Charlie Worsham, Gary Mule Deer, The Band Perry, Oak Ridge Boys

Saturday February 21
7:00: Opry Square Dancers, Riders In The Sky, John Conlee, Connie Smith, Steve Earle
Intermission
8:20: Opry Square Dancers, Gary Mule Deer, Oak Ridge Boys, Ashely McBryde

There have been more than a few characters who in the history of the Grand Ole Opry have become members. One of those was Lecil Travis Martin. While that name may not ring a bell with some of the younger fans of the Opry, his stage name certainly does: Boxcar Willie. Boxcar joined the cast of the Opry 45 years ago this weekend, February 21, 1981. 

From the Tennessean: 

With tears in his eyes and a catch in his voice, Boxcar Willie became the Grand Ole Opry's 60th member on Saturday night. 

Boxcar's induction into the ranks of country music greats is the second in recent weeks, part of the Opry's latest move to upgrade the show's cast. The grizzled hobo singer, wearing the overalls, threadbare jacket and tattered hat that have brought him from relative obscurity to international stardom in just a few years, was introduced on stage by Roy Acuff. Ironically, Saturday night marked the 43rd anniversary of Acuff's own tenure on the Opry. 

"C'mon Boxcar, let's tear into them. You got 43 years to go to catch up to me on the Grand Ole Opry," said an ebullient Acuff, in his introduction. Describing Boxcar Willie as "a true-blue country music lover," Acuff noted the Opry's newest member "had tried different styles to make his living in country music. But finally, he tired being his own natural self and since then he's been very successful. We wish him all the success in the world." 

Visibly moved, "Box," as he is known to his friends, took the stage where he was greeted warmly by Mr. Acuff. "Mr. Acuff, I have been practicing and dreaming for 40 years of being on the Grand Ole Opry," he said. "I've been rehearsing my speech for that long. And now, I'm speechless." "Why don't you cry a little bit for us," suggested Acuff. "If you say anything else, I will," said Boxcar. 

At Acuff's urging "make us a good 'un" the singer then broke into a spirited melody of train songs and hobo ditties, highlighted by a rendition of Acuff's own trademark, Wabash Cannonball. 

Until four years ago, Boxcar Willie was a relatively unknown singer and disc jockey in Texas named Jim Martin. The son of a real-life hobo turned tenant farmer, Martin developed an early love of hobo lore and songs that went with it. For years, he sang and played around Texas and the upper Midwest with little success until his decision to incorporate a hobo image into his act. 

Since then, he has had a rush of success. His first appearance at the Wembley Festival of Country Music in England several years ago boosted him to immediate fame in Great Britain, where he has remained a consistently popular recording star. More recently, he has begun to develop a large American following with such songs as "Daddy Was a Railroad Man" and "The Lord Made a Hobo Out of Me." Currently television ads for his latest album are attracting attention around the country, and he has become a frequent performer on television's Hee Haw. 

Born Lecil Travis Martin, Boxcar Willie never worked on the railroads. However, Willie loved the railroads and kept running away to ride the trains when he was a child. He also loved country music, particularly the songs of Jimmie Rodgers, Roy Acuff, and Ernest Tubb. As a teenager, Boxcar Willie would perform under his given name, eventually becoming a regular on the Big D Jamboree in Dallas, TX. In his early twenties, he served in the Air Force. After he left the service, he continued to sing in clubs and radio shows. In the late '50s, he began performing as Marty Martin, while working blue-collar jobs during the day. Marty Martin released an album, Marty Martin Sings Country Music and Stuff Like That, around 1958, but it was ignored.

In the mid-'60s, Martin wrote a song called "Boxcar Willie," based on a hobo he saw on a train. Martin continued to struggle in his musical career until the mid-'70s. By that time, he had become a DJ in Corpus Christi, TX. In 1975, he decided to risk everything he had on one final chance at stardom. He moved to Nashville and developed the Boxcar Willie character, using his song as the foundation.

Initially, Boxcar Willie wasn't very successful, but he had a lucky break in 1976 when he was called in to replace a sick George Jones at a Nashville club. During that performance, he was spotted by Drew Taylor, a Scottish booking agent. Taylor brought Boxcar Willie over to England for a tour, where he was enthusiastically received. Later that year, he released his first album, which was a moderate success in the U.K. Through the rest of the '70s, Willie toured Britain and every tour was more successful, culminating in a performance at the International Country Music Festival at Wembley in 1979. After his Wembley show was finished, he received a standing ovation -- the performance established Boxcar Willie as a star. His next album, King of the Road, became a huge success in England, reaching number five on the album charts; the record was helped immeasurably by its accompanying television advertisements, which sold the record through the mail.

By the end of 1980, Willie had become the most successful country artist in England, and his American success had just begun. King of the Road was available through an American television advertisement. "Train Medley" was a minor hit on the country charts, and he was becoming a popular attraction on U.S. concert circuits. In 1981, he received a spot on the Country Music Hall of Fame's Walkway of the Stars and became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. He was named "Most Promising Male Vocalist" by the Country Music Association, and his TV album "King of the Road" earned double-platinum sales

Boxcar Willie enjoyed his time in the spotlight, becoming a regular on the television show Hee Haw in 1982 and turning out albums as fast as he could make them. "Bad News" became his only American country Top 40 hit in 1982. In 1985, he played a hobo in Sweet Dreams, a film about Patsy Cline. 

In 1985, Martin moved to Branson, Missouri, and purchased a theater on Missouri Route 76, also known as 76 Country Boulevard. In addition to the Boxcar Willie Theater, he opened a museum and eventually had two motels, both bearing his name. Martin was one of the first big stars to open a show in Branson, paving the way for the other nationally known names who followed. 

By the mid-'80s, his star had faded, but he remained a popular concert attraction, particularly in England, into the '90s. 

On October 31, 1996, after having felt tired for a couple of months, Box was told by doctors that he was suffering from the most aggressive type of leukemia, mantle zone lymphatic leukemia. He began a spirited battle for his life – even while undergoing chemotherapy, BoxCar performed six nights a week at his theater. His difficult struggle came to an end on April 12 in his Branson home, where he was surrounded by his family.

Here is the running order from Saturday February 21, 1981, the night Boxcar Willie became a member of the Grand Ole Opry: 

1st show
6:30: Mrs. Grissoms
Roy Drusky (host): Strangers
Wilma Lee Cooper: I Couldn't Believe it Was True
Roy Drusky: The Last Farewell

6:45: Rudy's
Stonewall Jackson (host): Don't Be Angry
Jim and Jesse: Where Do We Go From Here
Connie Smith: Satisfied
Stonewall Jackson: 'Ol Chunk of Coal

7:00: Shoney's
Jim Ed Brown (host): Mariah
Billy Grammer: Somebody Loves You
Ernie Ashworth: Memphis Memory/Nine to Five
Tammy Wynette: Your Good Girl's Gonna Bad/Apartment #9/I Don't Wanna Play House/DIVORCE/Why I Keep Singing My Song/Cowboys Don't Always Shoot Straight/Stand By Your Man
Jim Ed Brown: The 3 Bells

7:30: Standard Candy
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Jean Shepard: You've Still Got a Place in My Heart
Boxcar Willie: Fireball Mail/Train of Love/Hand Me Down My Walking Cane/Wreck of the Old 97/Orange Blossom Special/Wabash Cannonball/Night Train to Memphis
Crook Brothers and The Tennessee Travelers: Lafayette
Roy Acuff: Will the Circle Be Unbroken

8:00: Martha White
Grandpa Jones (host) and Ramona Jones: Piney Jane
Wilburn Brothers: Making Plans
Jeanne Pruett: Break My Mind
David Houston: My Lady
Grandpa and Ramona Jones: Dark As A Dungeon

8:30: Acme
Hank Snow (host): I'm Moving On
The Four Guys: Turn Your Radio On
Jimmy C Newman: Instrumental
Jan Howard: Rolling In My Sweet Baby's Arms/Rocky Top
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Saturday Night Hop
Hank Snow and Kelly Foxton: Before the Next Teardrop Falls

2nd show
9:30: Kellogg's
Porter Wagoner (host): Ol' Slewfoot
The Four Guys: Loving Up a Storm
Connie Smith: When I Need Jesus, He's There
Roy Drusky: Don't It Make You Want to Go Home
Vic Willis Trio: Cimarron
Porter Wagoner: Tennessee Saturday Night/Cold Hard Facts of Life/Carroll County Accident/Green, Green Grass of Home/On A Highway Headed South

10:00: Little Debbie
Jim Ed Brown (host): Lyin' In Love With You
Bill Carlisle: No Help Wanted
Stu Phillips: Have I Told You Lately That I Love You/You Win Again/Please Release Me
Jim Ed Brown: I Believe

10:15: Sunbeam
Roy Acuff (host): Down in Union County
Boxcar Willie: Fireball Mail/Train of Love/Hand Me Down My Walking Cane/Wreck of the Old 97/Orange Blossom Special/Wabash Cannonball/Night Train to Memphis
Roy Acuff: I'll Fly Away/I Saw the Light

10:30: Trailblazer
Grandpa Jones (host): Little Pink
Jean Shepard: Foggy River/If You've Got the Money, I've Got the Time
Grandpa and Ramona Jones: I Wonder Where My Darling is Tonight

10:45: Beechnut
Stonewall Jackson (host): Why I'm Walkin'
Wilma Lee Cooper: Bury Me Beneath the Willow
Crook Brothers and The Tennessee Travelers: Sally Goodin
Stonewall Jackson: Muddy Water

11:00: Coca Cola
Hank Snow (host): I've Cried A Mile
Jeanne Pruett: Satin Sheets
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Nubbing Ridge
Billy Grammer: Blue Water
Kirk McGee: Railroad Blues
Hank Snow and Kelly Foxton: Check

11:30: Bama Jelly
Jimmy C Newman (host): Louisiana Cajun Band
Jan Howard: Evil on Your Mind/Memories for Sale
David Houston: My Lady
Wilburn Brothers: Troubles Back in Town
Wade B. Landry: Orange Blossom Special

Boxcar Willie was perhaps the most successful invented character in the history of country music. With his kitschy persona and stage act -- highlighted by his amazingly accurate impersonation of a train whistle -- Willie played into the stereotype of the lovable, good-natured hobo who spent his life riding the rails and singing songs. Since his popularity had more to do with his image than his music, it makes sense that he was massively successful in England, where he personified Americana. Willie's English success carried him over to American success in the early '80s, where he ironically was perceived as carrying the torch for traditional country, because he kept the stereotypes alive.

Have a nice weekend and thanks for reading along. 

 

  

 

Tuesday Night Opry 2/17

Grand Ole Opry member Chris Janson heads up the lineup for this week's Tuesday Night Opry. Joining Chris will be Opry comedian Gary Mule Deer. Guesting are Restless Road, Maggie Rose, Ernest and making their Opry debut Clay Street Unit. 

Tuesday February 17
7:00: T. Graham Brown, Restless Road, Clay Street Unit, Maggie Rose
Intermission
8:20: ERNEST, Gary Mule Deer, Dailey & Vincent, Chris Janson

Clay Street Unit’s debut album, Sin & Squalor, is a full-length project that blends the acoustic instrumentation of bluegrass and folk with the amplified energy of Americana and country, creating a unique interpretation of American roots music. Recorded in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains and inspired by Appalachian sounds, the album features six members — mandolinist Scottie Bolin, banjo player Jack Cline, pedal steel guitarist Brad Larrison, drummer Brendan Lamb, bassist Jack Kotarba, and singer/guitarist Sam Walker — who have spent their formative years in cities like Atlanta, Charlottesville, and Montgomery before coming together in Denver, Colorado.

In September 2025, Clay Street Unit signed with Leo33, a label that has worked with artists like The Infamous Stringdusters, to help promote their debut MusicRow. The album was recorded with producer Chris Pandolfi, who also co-founded the Grammy-winning Infamous Stringdusters, aiming to capture the band’s live energy while showcasing their evolved songwriting since their 2022 EP A Mighty Fine Evening.

Grand Ole Opry 2/13 & 2/14

Taking a look at the Grand Ole Opry lineups for this weekend, the Friday Night Opry has Opry members Mark Wills, Connie Smith and Trace Adkins on the schedule. Also appearing will be George Thorogood & The Destroyers, The Infamous Stringdusters and MercyMe. 

Trace and MercyMe will also be appearing on a special segment that will celebrate the upcoming film, "I Can Only Imagine," which is a film inspired by the true stories of MercyMe. While the original film was released in March 2018, this is an update of that original film and is scheduled to be released in theaters on February 20. 

For those not familiar with the film, here is the description: 

After the breakout success of the song “I Can Only Imagine,” MercyMe’s Bart Millard (John Michael Finley) is living the dream—sold-out arenas, a devoted fan base, and a thriving career. But behind the spotlight, Bart’s past threatens the family he’s built, especially the fragile bond with his son, Sam (Sammy Dell).

When hopeful newcomer Tim Timmons (Milo Ventimiglia, “This Is Us”) joins the band for their biggest tour yet, he unknowingly brings a renewed gratitude to Bart’s life through their unlikely friendship. Bart soon discovers that Tim carries hardships—and secrets—of his own, forcing him to face his past and repair his relationships with Sam and his wife, Shannon (Sophie Skelton), before fame costs him what matters most. Based on the heartfelt true story behind the hit single “Even If,” I CAN ONLY IMAGINE 2 is the inspiring next chapter of faith, family, and finding God in the fire.

In addition to Trace Adkins and MercyMe, that special segment will also include John Michael Finley, Tim Timmons and Sam Wesley, with Tim and Sam making their Opry debuts. 

Saturday night Mark Wills returns to make it a two-show weekend, joined by Opry members Bill Anderson, John Conlee, Riders In The Sky and Rhonda Vincent. Connor Smith will be guesting, along with Thelma & James. Rounding out the lineup, and making his Opry debut, will be Blake Whiten, who wrote on his Facebook page that he was "extremely honored" to be making his Opry debut. 

Friday February 13
7:00: Mark Wills, Connie Smith, The Infamous Stringdusters, George Thorogood & The Destroyers
Intermission
8:20: Trace Adkins, Mercy Me, (Story Behind the Movie: Bart, Tim, Trace, John, Sam, & Milo Ventimiglia), John Michael Finley, Tim Timmons, Sam Wesley, Mercy Me

Saturday February 14 
7:00: Opry Square Dancers, Mark Wills, Riders In The Sky, Blake Whiten, Bill Anderson
Intermission
8:20: Thelma & James, John Conlee, Opry Square Dancers, Connor Smith, Rhonda Vincent

While February 14 is St. Valentine's Day, it was also the date that a couple of the Grand Ole Opry's more recent members made their Opry debuts. For Kelsea Ballerini it happened in 2015 and for Lainey Wilson it was in 2020.

From The Tennessean: 
Country newcomer Kelsea Ballerini is sure of one thing-Valentine's Day 2015 will be a day she'll never forget. Ballerini, whose debut single "Love Me Like You Mean It," recently broke in the Top 30 on Billboard's country radio airplay chart, will make her Grand Ole Opry debut on Saturday-Valentine's Day. 

"It's the ultimate Valentine's Day surprise," Ballerini said. "I've been to the Opry twice as a fan, and it's so incredible. I can't believe I get to go from being in the audience to being on the stage. It's awesome but really nerve-wrecking."

Ballerini plans to play a full band version of her single "Love Me Like You Mean It," as well as a harmony driven, stripped down version of her song "First Time" from her self-titled E.P. 

Here is the posted lineup from that night 11 years ago: 

7:00: Opry Square Dancers, Connie Smith (host), Chris Janson, Mike Snider
7:30: Ricky Skaggs (host), Kelsea Ballerini, The Whites
Intermission
8:15: Jim Ed Brown (host), Joe Mullins & The Radio Ramblers, Chuck Wicks
8:45: Bill Anderson (host), Mo Pitney, Charles Esten

As far as Lainey Wilson, this is how she remembered her Opry debut: 

“Most little girls dream about their wedding day, walking down the aisle in a beautiful wedding dress. Well, this is the day I’ve been dreaming about my whole life—to be standing in the Grand Ole Opry circle in a pair of bell bottoms, doing what I love,” said Lainey Wilson. “Stepping into that circle is about like stepping into Country music heaven. You hear about how it’s the best feeling in the world…how it’s better than you imagined it…but you don’t really understand until you get there and experience it for yourself. So many of my influences have stood in that circle. I’m humbled and excited to feel their spirit when I step in for the first time.”

Here is the posted lineup from the night of Lainey's Opry debut on February 14, 2020:

7:00: Mark Wills (host), Mike Snider, Dailey & Vincent
7:30: Bill Anderson (host), The Grascals, Charles Esten
Intermission
8:15: Terri Clark (host), Gary Mule Deer, Lainey Wilson
8:45: John Conlee (host), Sawyer Brown

It didn't take long for either Kelsea or Lainey to become members of the Opry. Kelsea joined the cast on April 16, 2019, while Lainey became a member on June 7, 2024.

There you have it for this weekend. 

Tuesday Night Opry 2/10

The month of February signals the start of the Tuesday Night Opry shows and there is a good show this week to start off the year. 

Grand Ole Opry member Lauren Alaina heads up the lineup, joined by members T. Graham Brown, Dailey & Vincent, comedian Henry Cho, Riders In The Sky, and Rascal Flatts member Jay DeMarcus, who will be appearing with his son Dylan.

Rounding out the schedule are Tyler Halverson, who made his Opry debut in 2024 and The Jack Wharff Band, who will be making their Opry debut this Tuesday night. 

7:00: Dailey & Vincent, Tyler Halverson, The Jack Wharff Band, Riders In The Sky
Intermission
8:20: T. Graham Brown, Henry Cho, Dylan & Jay DeMarcus, Lauren Alaina

In December, The Jack Wharff Band received a surprise of a lifetime when Grand Ole Opry member and Old Crow Medicine Show’s Ketch Secor broke the news that the rising Country/Americana four-piece received an invitation to make their Opry debut on February 10. 

“Still pinching ourselves over this moment. We’re so honored to be invited by Ketch Secor from Old Crow Medicine Show to make our Grand Ole Opry debut next year,” the band shared in an Instagram post. “We can’t believe we get to step foot in that legendary circle; this is such a dream come true for us.”

The Jack Wharff Band is from Richmond, Virginia and play a blend of bluegrass, country and rock.  Known for their electric live performances, masterful instrumentation, and their ability to make music that consistently defies the confines of genre, the young band burst onto the scene in 2024 with snippets of jaw-dropping original songs posted to TikTok and Reels. Comprised of vocalist/frontman Jack Wharff, drummer Garrett Howell, bassist Ryan Atchison and guitarist Evan Novoa, the salt of the earth four-piece has quickly captivated audiences with their infectious energy and unrelenting passion for the craft. They released their debut EP Richmond’s Most Wanted this summer, featuring “six tracks of bluegrass-fueled gold” (Holler), including their breakout track and streaming juggernaut “Washed.” The up-and-coming band has opened for acts including Sam Barber, Ole 60, Max McNown, and more. 

Grand Ole Opry 2/6 & 2/7

Over the past several weeks, I have been getting emails asking about the age of various Grand Ole Opry members. Since there seems to be some interest, I thought I would take a few moments and cover off on the subject. 

The oldest current member of the Grand Ole Opry is Bobby Bare. Bobby, at the age of 90, is followed by Jeanne Pruett, who just celebrated her 89th. Currently, here is the list of members age 80 or over, with those still active highlighted: 

Bobby Bare: 90
Jeanne Pruett: 89
Bill Anderson: 88
Del McCoury: 87
Oak Ridge Boys (William Lee Golden: 87, Duane Allen: 82, Richard Sterban: 82)
Gary Mule Deer: 86
Connie Smith: 84
Charlie McCoy: 84
Ronnie Milsap: 83
Gene Watson: 82
Dolly Parton: 80

And those over 70: 

John Conlee: 79
Riders In The Sky (Ranger Doug: 79, Joey Miskulin: 77, Too Slim: 77, Woody Paul: 76)
Emmylou Harris: 78
Barbara Mandrell: 77
Larry Gatlin: 77
Crystal Gayle: 75
Ricky Van Shelton: 74
Don Schlitz: 73
The Whites (Sharon White: 72, Cheryl White 70)
T. Graham Brown: 71
Ricky Skaggs: 71
Steve Earle: 71
Steve Wariner: 71
Reba McEntire: 70

That is pretty close to a third of the Opry's cast with a few of those some of the heavy hitters when it comes to appearances. Fortunately, younger members have been added over the past several years: Carly Pearce, Lauren Alaina, Ashley McBryde, Henry Cho, Sara Evans, Jon Pardi, Scotty McCreery and Lainey Wilson. Now if we can just get those younger to make more Opry appearances and help carry some of the load, the Opry would be in great shape for the future. 

Hopefully that answers some of the questions that I have been asked. 

Now taking a look at the Grand Ole Opry this weekend, one of those younger members, Carly Pearce will be appearing on the Friday Night Opry. She will be joined by members The Isaacs, Ricky Skaggs, The Whites and Rhonda Vincent, who will be celebrating her 5th year as a member of the cast. 

Ricky Skaggs will be back on Saturday night, making it another two show weekend for him, and on Saturday he will be joined by Lorrie Morgan, John Conlee, Connie Smith and Don Schlitz. 

Guesting on Friday night are Noeline Hofmann and Rissi Palmer. The fantastic Americana group The Shootouts will be making the trip from Akron, Ohio for another Opry appearance on Saturday night. Also appearing are Lorrie's son, Jesse Keith Whitley and Louis York. 

Friday February 6
7:00: Rhonda Vincent, The Whites, Rissi Palmer, The Isaacs
Intermission
8:20: Noeline Hofmann, Ricky Skaggs, Carly Pearce

Saturday February 7
7:00: Opry Square Dancers, Ricky Skaggs, Connie Smith, Louis York, John Conlee
Intermission
8:20: The Shootouts, Opry Square Dancers, Lorrie Morgan w/Jesse Keith Whitley, Don Schlitz

It will be a double celebration this weekend as on Friday night, Rhonda Vincent will celebrate her 5th year as an Opry member and John Conlee will be celebrating his 45th anniversary on Saturday night. 

As mentioned, it was 45 years ago, February 7, 1981, that John Conlee became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. John came to the Opry from Kentucky, where after growing up on a farm, became a funeral home attendant and mortician. He was also employed as a local disc jockey. His recording career started in the mid 1970s as he was signed to ABC/Dot Records and in 1976 "Backside of Thirty" became his first single. In 1978, John had his career song as "Rose Colored Glasses" was released. From then on, the hits kept coming. While his last chart record was in the 1990s, John continues to record and make new music. He also tours and is heavily involved in charity work, including "Feed The Children" and "Farm Aid." A few years back, after his son joined the armed forces, he recorded the song "They Also Serve" and performed it on a regular basis on the Opry.

Here is the running order of the Grand Ole Opry 1st show, Saturday February 7, 1981, the night John Conlee became an Opry member:

1st show
6:30: Mrs. Grissoms
Stonewall Jackson (host): Me and You and A Dog Named Boo
Ernie Ashworth: Mind Your Own Business
Stonewall Jackson: Ol' Chunk of Coal

6:45: Rudy's
Charlie Walker (host): Crazy Arms
Justin Tubb: What's Wrong With the Way That We're Doing It Now
Bill Carlisle: Knothole
Charlie Walker: Don't Play Me No Songs About Texas

7:00: Shoney's
Porter Wagoner (host): Ol' Slewfoot
Jimmy Dickens: Take An Old Cold Tater
John Conlee: She Can't Say That Anymore/What I Had With You/Rose Colored Glasses
Connie Smith: When God Dips His Love In My Heart
Porter Wagoner: What I've Always Wanted/On A Highway Headed South

7:30: Standard Candy
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Jean Shepard: Slippin' Away
Jim & Jesse: Truck Stops and Pretty Girls
Vic Willis Trio: Last Cheater's Waltz
Crook Brothers & The Tennessee Travelers: Durang's Hornpipe
Roy Acuff: That's the Man I'm Looking For

8:00: Martha White
Bill Anderson (host): I Love You Drops
Skeeter Davis: The Rose
Wilburn Brothers: Making Plans
Ray Pillow: Countryfied
Lonzo & Oscar: Green Grass of Home
Bill Anderson: Mr. Peepers

8:30: Acme
Hank Snow (host): Storms Never Last
4 Guys: Fire
Charlie Louvin: Mama's Angels
Roy Drusky: Don't It Make You Want to Go Home
Stu Phillips: I Will
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Bill Bailey
Hank Snow & Kelly Foxton: Check

John Conlee was one of those artists that joined the Opry early in his career and really didn't appear that much. As his career has settled down, John has become one of the artists over the past decade that is among the leaders in Opry appearances each year. And at the age of 79, his voice is still strong. 

There you have it for this weekend. While many will be looking forward to The Super Bowl on Sunday, many of us will be listening to the Friday and Saturday Opry shows this weekend. Both nights look good and I hope everyone enjoys the shows. 

February Opry Highlights

2026 has gotten off to a great start at the Grand Ole Opry. Clint Black and Reba McEntire celebrated Opry anniversaries, Hank Williams was honored and Suzy Bogguss was inducted as an Opry member. And Opry icon celebrated her 80th birthday. 

Now the page on the calendar is turned to February. Let's take a look at some past events: 

February 9, 1914: The legendary Ernest Tubb was born in Crisp, Texas. 

February 18, 1914: Julius Frank Anthony Kuczynski was born. Better known by his stage name Pee Wee King. Pee Wee came to the Opry in 1937, even before Roy Acuff and was one of the Opry's first professional stars. 

February 1, 1928: Harry Stone joined WSM radio as a staff announcer. Harry would eventually become the general manager of WSM and become responsible for the Opry. While in that position, he would often clash with Opry founder George D. Hay over the direction of the show. While Judge Hay wanted to keep the rural flavor of the show, Harry saw the value of the show to the National Life & Insurance Company, the owners of WSM, and felt that the show should move into a more professional direction. It was during Harry's time that the Opry moved away from local, amateur talent and began bringing in professional and paid entertainers. Harry remained with WSM until 1950, when he left to pursue new opportunities. Overtime it has seemed that Harry Stone's influence at WSM and in the direction that the Opry eventually took has been overlooked, but he was an important part of the history of the radio station and the Opry. On a personal note, I feel Harry Stone should have been elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame decades ago. Sadly, his time has probably passed. 

February 17, 1931: Uncle Jimmy Thompson, the first artist to perform on what is now called the Grand Ole Opry passed away. Uncle Jimmy was a part of the Barn Dance until 1927. On the back wall at the Opry House, on the list of Opry members, Uncle Jimmy holds the top spot. 

February 2, 1935: The Missouri Mountaineers, led by Jack Shook, made their first appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. Alcyone Bate described the Mountaineers, who were founded by Jack Shook, as a "sort of Sons of Pioneers group." They stayed with the Opry until 1939. After the group left the Opry, Jack Shook would go on to make recordings with Hank Williams, Eddy Arnold and Hank Snow, among others. 

February 5, 1938: Roy Acuff and his Crazy Tennesseans made their second appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. His first appearance had taken place several months earlier and was not considered a success. This time around, Roy performed "The Great Speckled Bird" and WSM was overwhelmed with an avalanche of mail. As a result, Roy was asked to become an Opry regular, or member, and it became official on February 19. Along with Pee Wee King, Ernest Tubb, Bill Monroe and Eddy Arnold, Roy would help lead the shift of the Opry's focus to professional singers rather than the instrumental groups that had been the main focus of the show. Shortly after he joined, Harry Stone suggested to Roy that the name of his group be changed and since Roy was from the Knoxville area, he went with Smoky Mountain Boys, which was effective beginning February 26. Except for a brief year in the 1940s, Roy would remain with the Opry until his death in November 1992.

February 18, 1939: The Andrew Brothers became members of the Grand Ole Opry. They were brought to the Opry specifically to replace the Delmore Brothers, who had left the show. While I have never heard The Andrew Brothers, I have heard that they were fine harmony singers.

February 13, 1943: While several dates have been listed, it would appear that Ernest Tubb became an official member of the Grand Ole Opry on this particular date. As has been discovered with others, in its earliest years, the Opry didn't keep very accurate records. 

February 21, 1948: Jimmy Dickens made his first guest appearance on the Opry. He performed "John Henry" and "I Dreamed of An Old Love Affair." Several months later, Jimmy would become a member of the Opry.

February 2, 1949: Future Grand Ole Opry member Hank Snow met current Opry member Ernest Tubb for the first time. The meeting led to the efforts by Ernest to get Hank on the Opry, which finally took place in January 1950.

February 26, 1949: Rose Maddox and her brothers made their debut on the Grand Ole Opry. Rose and the group would later become Opry members, however their stay at the Opry was very short. There are several different versions as to why they left but the consensus seems to be that they were a little too progressive for the Opry. When discussion takes place regarding those who should be in the Hall of Fame but have been passed over, Rose and her brothers are frequently mentioned. 

February 18, 1950: One of the Opry's early competitors, the WSB Barn Dance, based in Atlanta, Georgia, took place for the final time. The show, which started on November 16, 1940, was a very popular regional show.

February 23, 1952: Del Wood made her debut on the Grand Ole Opry. She came to the Opry after "Down Yonder" her famous instrumental single, sold over a million copies the previous year. When Del accepted the invitation to perform on the Opry, she turned down a two-week engagement to play with Bob Crosby and his orchestra. Del became an Opry member the following year and would remain an Opry member until her death in October 1989. It has been said that Del would keep a sharp eye out whenever a newcomer came to the Opry and didn't care for those who were overly progressive. 

February 7, 1953: Marty Robbins made his debut on the Grand Ole Opry. He performed two numbers, "Ain't You Ashamed" and "Good Night Cincinnati, Good Mornin' Tennessee." Marty's debut was a success, and he would shortly become an Opry regular. 

February 26, 1955: The Louvin Brothers, Charlie and Ira, became members of the Grand Ole Opry. Some consider them the greatest brother duo in the history of country music. Ira passed away on June 20, 1965, from injuries in an automobile accident that also took the life of his wife and another couple. Charlie would remain a member of the Opry, and have a successful solo career, until his death in January 2011. (As a note, some publications list February 10 as the date the Louvin Brothers joined the Opry).

February 19, 1957: Webb Pierce resigned as a member of the Opry. Webb's time at the Opry was fairly short as he quickly realized the amount of money, he was losing by having to be in Nashville every Saturday night. While that was the main issue, there were other instances where Webb felt that he wasn't being fairly treated by the Opry's management. However, after Webb gave up his Opry membership, he would come back for an occasional appearance. 

February 23, 1957: Porter Wagoner became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. It is safe to say that Porter was one of the Opry's most popular and colorful members and in his later years, was considered the face of the Opry. Porter had made his first guest appearance in 1956 and would later say, "The first night I appeared on the Opry, I came off the stage and went back to the dressing room area, and I met Roy Acuff in the hallway there. And he came up to me and he said, 'Porter, I was awful glad that you're becoming a part of the Grand Ole Opry. We need more of your kind of people here,'" The night of his first appearance, he was introduced by Carl Smith, who would later become close friends with Porter. Porter remained an Opry member until his death in October 2007, shortly after celebrating 50 years as an Opry member.

February 27, 1959: Billy Grammer joined the cast of the Grand Ole Opry. Famous for "Gotta Travel On" Billy was also a fine guitar player and maker. Billy was a member for 52 years, passing away in August 2011. Billy also gave the innovation at the opening of the new Grand Ole Opry House in March 1974.

February 6, 1960: George Hamilton IV became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. George, who passed away in September 2014, was an Opry member for 54 years. From my own personal experience, George was one of the nicest guys in country music and it was always a joy and pleasure to sit and talk to him. I would also add that I believe George's contributions to country and folk music have been largely overlooked over the years. 

February 23, 1963: Patsy Cline made her final appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. Less than two weeks later, she would die in a plane crash that also took the lives of Opry members Cowboy Copas and Hawkshaw Hawkins, along with Randy Hughes. While Patsy's time at the Opry was short, she had a tremendous influence. 

February 12, 1966: After taking a leave of absence from the Grand Ole Opry in December 1964, Minnie Pearl returned to the Opry. Minnie saw that she was probably going to be caught up in the Purge of 64 with the members who were fired from the show, thus she took the initiative and asked for a leave knowing that she would be back someday. 

February 19, 1966: Folk singers Peter, Paul and Mary made a special guest appearance on the Grand Ole Opry.

February 11, 1967: The Four Guys made their first appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. As the story has been told many times, they were brought back for several encores. Even though the group never had a hit record, they were such a success with their stage presence that they were asked to become Opry members, were they remained until fired in April 2000. On a side note, Sam Wellington, the original leader of the group was inducted into the Ohio Country Music Hall of Fame. Sam also has written some wonderful books about Nashville and the country music industry, 

February 10, 1968: Opry sponsor Shick sponsored a segment for the final time. 

February 17, 1968: Fender Music Instruments sponsored an Opry segment for the first time. They settled into the 10:00 segment on Saturday night, formally occupied by Shick. 

February 22, 1969: Lester Flatt & Earl Scruggs made their final appearance together on the Opry. The duo had joined the Opry in 1955; however creative differences caused the two to go their separate ways. While they broke up several months later, each remained as individual members of the Opry. On that particular night, they were scheduled for both shows, however they only appeared on the early show as differences kept them from appearing on the late show. 

February 28, 1970: Pure Oil sponsored their final segment on the Opry. They were replaced, basically in a name change, by Union 76. 

February 6, 1971: The Grand Ole Opry began performing two Saturday night Opry shows on a regular basis. Prior to that date, the Saturday show ran 7:30 to midnight, although on special occasions the Opry would break it up into two shows, depending on artist and audience demand.

February 11, 1972: Grand Ole Gospel Time, hosted by the Reverend Jimmie Snow, made its debut after the Friday Night Opry. The show would continue for the next 23 years and feature many of the Opry's members, along with other guests including Johnny and June Carter Cash and Dennis Weaver. While the hour-long show took place after the Friday Night Opry, it was not aired on WSM until Sunday morning.

February 19, 1974: Grand Ole Opry members Porter Wagoner and Dolly Parton announced the break-up of their act. Obviously, this affected the Opry greatly as Porter would continue as an Opry regular, however Dolly, who would remain an Opry member, would eventually fade away from making regular Opry appearances. 

February 23, 1974: Former Grand Ole Opry members DeFord Bailey, Sid Harkreader, Pee Wee King and several others performed on the Opry as part of the first of what would turn into, an annual reunion show featuring former Opry members. DeFord appeared at the personal invitation of Roy Acuff and Minnie Pearl. While this was not DeFord's first Opry appearance since his firing, this was among his more notable ones. Before passing away, DeFord would make several more appearances, most often on the Opry's annual reunion shows.

February 1, 1975: Future Grand Ole Opry member Steve Wariner made his singing debut on the Opry. He sang a duet with Dottie West "Sweet Memories." He as part of Dottie's band and was introduced that night as Steve Noel. 

February 8, 1975: After an absence of 18 years, Jimmy Dickens rejoined the cast as a member of the Opry. He was introduced that night by Hank Snow, who noted how much Jimmy had been missed at the Opry and how good it was to have him back. As you might expect, Jimmy sang "Family Reunion." Unlike the first time he joined in 1948, this time Jimmy stayed, until passing away in January 2015.

February 6, 1976: Ronnie Milsap became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. This will be Ronnie's 50th year as an Opry member. Sadly, Ronnie has had his share of health problems, and it would appear that he has retired. Ronnie last scheduled appearance on the Opry was in March 2024 as part of his 80th birthday celebration. While not on the list of performers, Ronnie did attend the Opry 100 special on NBC last March. 

February 16, 1980: Opry member Charlie Louvin was recognized upon his 25th anniversary as an Opry member. 

February 7, 1981: John Conlee became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. This will be John's 45th year as an Opry member. As an Opry member, John has been very popular and well received. After he first appeared on the Opry, he was quoted as saying, "I made sure to stand on the circle from the stage of the old Ryman. That circle has been so important to me because so many big stars had stood on that wooden flooring."

February 21, 1981: Just two weeks after John Conlee joined the cast, Boxcar Willie became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Boxcar became a country music star late in life, thanks to his hobo character and his late-night television commercials promoting his train album. Boxcar had first appeared on the Opry in June 1980 after being discovered in England by Wesley Rose, who brought Boxcar to the attention of Roy Acuff. Lecil Travis Martin passed away in April 1999. Also, that night, former Grand Ole Opry member Tammy Wynette made an Opry appearance, her first since October 1975.

February 28, 1987: Grand Ole Opry member Archie Campbell made his final appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. Archie, who was also known as a star of Hee Haw, passed away in August 1987. For those who haven't, I would recommend a visit to the Archie Campbell Museum in Bulls Gap, Tennessee. It is free and wonderful. I would also add that Archie should have been elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame decades ago. As to why he has not been elected, I do not have an answer. 

February 20, 1988: The Grand Ole Opry honored Roy Acuff for 50 years of Opry membership. TNN devoted an entire hour-long segment to Roy that featured Loretta Lynn and Minnie Pearl. On an additional note, on the same night that Roy Acuff celebrated his 50th Opry anniversary, Porter Wagoner and Dolly Parton reunited at the Opry for the first time in 14 years.

February 24, 1990: Grand Ole Opry member Loretta Lynn performed on the Opry for the first time with her sisters Crystal Gayle and Peggy Sue. 

February 24, 1991: Webb Pierce passed away in Nashville. Webb came to Nashville in 1952 from the Louisiana Hayride and quickly made his first Grand Ole Opry appearance on the Prince Albert portion of the show. When he joined the cast in 1953, he was considered the replacement for Hank Williams. In the 1950s, Webb was one of the biggest acts in country music and because of his heavy touring, he only stayed at the Opry for a couple of years. Webb was also a very successful businessman and was involved with one of the first publishing companies in Nashville. In 2001, a decade after his death, Webb was finally elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame.

February 29, 1992: Travis Tritt became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. This will be his 34th year as an Opry member. Travis is the only member in the history of the Opry who joined the cast on February 29, leap year. Sadly, over the past decade, Travis has not been to the Opry very often. Also taking place that night was the Opry debut of Trisha Yearwood. She would join the Opry's cast a decade later. 

February 18, 1995: WSM and Grand Ole Opry announcer Charlie Douglas announced the Grand Ole Opry for the final time. Charlie retired from WSM after coming to the station in 1984.

February 19, 1998: Grand Ole Opry member Grandpa Jones passed away from the effects of a stroke he had suffered earlier in the year. Grandpa had been a 50+ year member of the Opry and was a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame. 

February 21, 1998: The Grand Ole Opry honored long-time member Grandpa Jones, who passed away earlier in the week from complications of a stroke suffered after an Opry performance. At the show that night, Bill Carlisle, Vince Gill, Ramona Jones and Grandpa's children led the cast in singing "Fallen Leaves," one of the great songs that Grandpa wrote. I was at the show that night and it was a very memorable evening. 

February 19, 1999: Brother Oswald made his final appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. Oswald had been a part of the Opry for decades, originally coming to the show as part of Roy Acuff's group, then later becoming an Opry member after Roy passed away. 

February 17, 2001: Brad Paisley became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. This will be Brad's 25th year as an Opry member. On the night that Brad joined the cast, he wore the bright yellow jacket that Buck Owens wore on the cover of the 1966 "Live at Carnegie Hall" album. In some ways, Brad has become the poster child of Opry members who seem to have forgotten where the Opry House is. 

February 24, 2001: While performing on the first show that evening, Grand Ole Opry member Wilma Lee Cooper suffered a stroke which would end her performing career. Wilma Lee did return to the Opry several times after the stroke, once to be honored for 50 years as a member of the Opry, and then when the Grand Ole Opry House reopened after the flood in September 2010.

February 16, 2002: Marty Stuart, Travis Tritt and Hank Williams, Jr. performed together on the Opry in tribute to Waylon Jennings, who had recently passed away. Porter Wagoner was the host of the segment, and the four performers spent an hour on stage singing various Waylon songs and telling Waylon stories.

February 23, 2002: Former Grand Ole Opry member Earl Scruggs made a guest appearance. Although he had given up his Opry membership decades earlier, he would still come around at times and perform on the Opry. 

February 18, 2003: Grand Ole Opry member Johnny Paycheck passed away following a long illness. Johnny joined the Opry in November 1997, at the urging of Johnny Russell. However, within a few years, declining health forced Johnny into retirement. At the time of his death. Johnny was in such poor financial shape that George Jones paid for a cemetery plot in which Johnny was buried.

February 22, 2003: Grand Ole Opry member Bill Carlisle made his final appearance on a Saturday night Opry show. Bill's final appearance would take place a on a Friday night the following month. 

February 4, 2005: Bluegrass group The Grascals made their debut on the Grand Ole Opry. While never becoming Opry members, the group has continued to make appearances on the Opry. 

February 26, 2005: Opry member Charlie Louvin was honored for 50 years of Opry membership. He appeared on both Opry shows that night in addition to hosting the Ernest Tubb Midnight Jamboree. Sadly, Charlie was not featured on the televised segment of the Opry that evening. 

February 8, 2007: In response to the recently filed lawsuit against the Grand Ole Opry officials file papers in a Nashville court to request a dismissal of Stonewall Jackson's age-discrimination suit. They note Jackson has turned down some opportunities to perform and call the suit an effort "to boost his own career"

February 16, 2008: Former Grand Ole Opry member Bobby Lord passed away in Florida at the age of 74. Bobby was a popular Opry member who joined the cast in the mid 1960s, leaving in the mid-1970s. At the time, he left Nashville and moved to Florida and got involved in real estate. From a personal standpoint, Bobby is one of those artists that I have missed. 

February 27, 2009: Opry member Billy Grammer was honored for 50 years of Opry membership. On the same night that Billy was recognized, Jimmy Dickens returned to the Opry after an absence of six weeks following brain surgery.

February 15, 2013: Future Grand Ole Opry member Chris Janson made his Opry debut. And yes, he was as wild that night as he was on the night that he became an Opry member. 

February 14, 2015: Future Grand Ole Opry member Kelsea Ballerini made her debut on the Grand Ole Opry. Kelsea joined the Opry cast in 2019.

February 26, 2015: The Grand Ole Opry House was added to the National Register of Historic Places.

February 24, 2017: Grand Ole Opry member Roy Clark performed on the Grand Ole Opry for the final time. Roy joined the Opry's cast in August 1987. Roy passed away on November 15, 2018.

February 28, 2017: Travis Tritt returned to the Opry stage for the first time since 2007, upon the occasion of his 25th year as a member of the Grand Ole Opry.

February 8, 2018: Steve Buchanan, President of the Grand Ole Opry, announced his retirement. Steve was instrumental in bringing in Pete Fisher as the Opry's general manager, and in expanding the Opry brand in Nashville and beyond. Steve was also the executive producer of "Nashville," which included the Opry and several of its members in many of their shows. An argument can be made that Steve could be a candidate for the Country Music Hall of Fame in the contributors' category.

February 15, 2019: William Shatner made his Grand Ole Opry debut, appearing with Jeff Cook from the group Alabama. 

February 7, 2020: Gene Watson was formally inducted as the newest member of the Grand Ole Opry. It was a well-deserved honor for Gene and well received. Grand Ole Opry member Steve Wariner handled the official induction. 

February 14, 2020: One of the Opry's newest members, Lainey Wilsom, made her Grand Ole Opry debut. From the time of her debut, it didn't take long for her to become an Opry member. 

February 28, 2020: Rhonda Vincent was surprised by Opry member Jeannie Seely with an invitation to become a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Rhonda had been a guest on the Opry for several decades prior to the invitation. Due to Covid, her induction was delayed until 2021. 

February 6, 2021: After a yearlong wait due to Covid, Rhonda Vincent was finally inducted as a member of the Grand Ole Opry. with Dierks Bentley doing the honors. Since joining the cast, Rhonda has embraced her membership and has appeared on the Opry numerous times over the past year. 

February 14, 2021: NBC-TV televised the Opry's 95th anniversary special. The show featured over a dozen of the Opry's more popular members and included the invitation by Darius Rucker to Lady A to become the Opry's newest member. The special had been filmed the previous month, and Lady A's Opry induction took effect immediately, thus jumping Rhonda Vincent's. 

February 12, 2022: Lauren Alaina was formally inducted as a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Trisha Yearwood did the introduction and presented Lauren with her Opry member award, with Garth Brooks also appearing. 

February 4, 2023: The Grand Ole Opry revealed its new backdrop. While still shaped somewhat as a barn, it brought the backdrop into the electronic age with LED and digital lighting that was designed for which ever performer was on stage. 

February 11, 2023: Henry Cho was inducted as the Grand Ole Opry's newest member, and the first comedian to join the Opry's cast since Jerry Clower in 1973. Vince Gill did the formal honors, assisted by John Conlee, Don Schlitz, Steve Wariner and Ben Isaacs. 

February 26, 2023: Melvin Sloan passed away at the age of 82. Melvin came to the Opry following the death of his brother Ralph Sloan and took over the lead role of the Square Dancers. The Group became known as the Melvin Sloan Dancers. Melvin retired in 2002, which also marked the 50th year of either Ralph or Melvin leading the Square Dancers. 

February 20, 2024: T. Graham Brown was surprised by Vince Gill with an invitation to become the newest member of the Grand Ole Opry. The invitation took place while Vince was guesting on T. Graham's radio show. 

February 21, 2025: Ringo Starr made his Grand Ole Opry debut. The former Beatle was joined by Molly Tuttle, Ketch Secor, Mandy Barnett and Ricky Skaggs among others for this historic Opry debut. 

February 22, 2025: Grand Ole Opry legend Jeannie Seely, who has made more appearances than any other artist in the history of the Grand Ole Opry, made her final appearance. The record she set will in all actuality, will never be broken. 

There you have it for the month of February.

Grand Ole Opry 1/30 & 1/31

Before getting into the Grand Ole Opry lineups for this weekend, some news to share, courtesy of Music Row Magazine: 

The Grand Ole Opry will once again bring legendary performers, A-list artists and new breakout stars to its stage as it honors Ronnie Milsap’s 50th Opry anniversary hat evening. (Tuesday February 24). It will also welcome the Opry NextStage class of 2026. Performers that night include Opry members Blake Shelton, Keith Urban, Trace Adkins, Mark Wills and more. Milsap is confirmed to be in attendance at the celebration.

The generational evening will feature Opry members and special guests performing their favorite Milsap songs to honor the six-time Grammy winner and country music legend, who has more than 35 No. 1 hits. Earlier in the evening, the Opry is set to introduce its Opry NextStage class of 2026.

For the remainder of the year, the Opry NextStage class will receive dedicated support from Opry Entertainment Group and presenting sponsor, Tecovas, through Opry performances, NextStage shows and heightened promotion to fans across brand platforms.

Since its launch in 2019, Opry NextStage artists have achieved a combined 42 No. 1 hits, spending a total of 52 weeks atop the Country Aircheck/Mediabase airplay chart. The program has introduced fans to rising stars such as Hailey Whitters, Lainey Wilson, Megan Moroney, Nate Smith, Parker McCollum, Riley Green, Ella Langley and Tenille Townes—all of whom went on to win ACM New Male or Female Artist of the Year after their NextStage inclusion. Wilson also made history as the first Opry NextStage alum to become an Opry member.

I really don't know what to say. I almost went into shock when I saw that Blake Shelton and Keith Urban, a couple of long-lost Opry members, are going to be appearing that night. It makes sense that Trace Adkins is on the schedule as Ronnie inducted Trace as an Opry member, and Mark Willis is a great fan of Ronnie's and appeared during Ronnie's last Opry appearance, when he was honored upon his 80th birthday. And yes, I do know that all of these artists do have relationships with each other. 

Ronnie Milsap is a legend in country music and a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame. It's wonderful that these artists, in addition to Vince Gill who was not mentioned in the press release, are coming out to the Opry that night to honor Ronnie. 

Hopefully the weather will be a little better this weekend in Nashville as there are two very good Grand Ole Opry shows on the schedule for this weekend as the Opry closes out the month of January. 

Country Music Hall of Fame members, and Opry members The Oak Ridge Boys and Ricky Skaggs are on the schedule for both nights this weekend along with The Gatlin Brothers who I am sure will join them one day in the Hall and Dailey & Vincent. Joining that group on Friday night will be members Riders In The Sky, with Abbey Cone, Tigirlily Gold and Taylor Hicks rounding out the lineup. 

Saturday night, Hall of Fame members Bill Anderson and Connie Smith are scheduled, along with the legendary Gene Watson. Home Free and Maggie Baugh round at the show. 

Friday January 30

7:00: Dailey & Vincent, Taylor Hicks, Abby Cone, The Gatlin Brothers

Intermission

8:20: Riders In The Sky, Tigirlily Gold, Ricky Skaggs, Oak Ridge Boys

Saturday January 31

7:00: Opry Square Dance Band, Dailey & Vincent, Maggie Baugh, Bill Anderson, Home Free

Intermission

8:20: Connie Smith, Opry Square Dancers, Gene Watson, Ricky Skaggs, Oak Ridge Boys

If nothing else, that last half hour on Saturday night will definitely be worth listening to. Three Hall of Fame members and one who should have been elected to the Hall years ago. 

Taking a look back 66 years ago to Saturday January 30, 1960. What makes this an interesting show is that both Billy Walker and Patsy Cline appeared. Both became Grand Ole Opry members that month, with Billy apparently joining at the beginning of the month, and Patsy becoming a member on January 9. It is interesting in doing some research with the Tennessean, neither event was reported on. 

7:30: Pet Milk

Cowboy Copas (host): Gone And Left Me Blue

Carl Butler: Grief In My Heart

Margie Bowes: I Loved You So Much I Left You Go

Cousin Jody: Unpucker

Cowboy Copas: Black Cloud Rising

Del Wood: Swinging By The Riverside

Rusty and Doug: The Love I Want

Carl Butler: You Just Don't Steel From A Poor Man

Cousin Jody: Cripple Creek

Cowboy Copas: The World If Real

8:00: Martha White

Don Gibson (host): I'm Movin' On

Wilburn Brothers: Which One Is To Blame

Hawkshaw Hawkins: Standing At The End Of The Road

Jean Shepard: I'd Rather Be The One

Don Gibson: Big Hearted Me

Crook Brothers: Katy Hill

Jordanaires: Wonderful Time Up There

Wilburn Brothers: Somebody's Back In Town

Hawkshaw Hawkins: Don't Apologize

Don Gibson: Don't Tell Me Your Troubles

8:30: Prince Albert

Roy Acuff (host): Roll On Buddy

Archie Campbell: Comedy

Billy Walker: Forever

Tommy Jackson: Snowflake Reel

June Webb: What A Price To Pay

Jimmy Riddle: Indian Love Call

June Carter: Comedy

Billy Walker: Changed My Mind

Oswald: Columbus Stockade Blues

Roy Acuff: Don't You Know

9:00: Jefferson Island Salt

Wilma Lee and Stoney Cooper (host): Big Midnight Special

Willis Brothers: (?)

Justin Tubb: You Nearly Lose Your Mind

Carlisles: It's The Same Old Tale That The Crow Told

Wilma Lee and Stoney Cooper: Rachel's Guitar

Jordanaires: I Ain't Never

Willis Brothers: (?)

Fruit Jar Drinkers: Nubbin Ridge

Carlisles: Uncle Bud

Wilma Lee and Stoney Cooper: Diamond Joe

9:30: Stephens

Hank Snow (host): The Last Ride

Roy Drusky: Another

Carl Bellew: Am I That Forgetful

Lonzo and Oscar: Bareface Bird Brain

Hank Snow: A Fool Such As I

Patsy Cline: Eyes Of A Child

Bill Anderson: It's Not The End Of Everything

Chubby Wise: Sally Goodin

Roy Drusky: Same Corner

Hank Snow: Rumba Boogie

10:00: Jamison Bedding

Roy Acuff (host): New River Train

Wilburn Brothers: A Woman's Intuition

Cowboy Copas: Black Cloud Rising

June Webb: I'm So Lonesome I Could Cry

Roy Acuff: Somebody Touched Me

Del Wood: Are You From Dixie

Oswald: Southern Moon

Crook Brothers: Grey Eagle

Wilburn Brothers: Knoxville Girl

Roy Acuff: When I Lay My Burden Down

10:30: Pops-Rite Popcorn

Don Gibson (host): Don't Tell Me Your Troubles

Carl Butler: Cry You Fool Cry

Margie Bowes: Make A Wish

Don Gibson: Heartbreak Avenue

Fiddle Tune: Leather Britches

10:45: De Con

Hawkshaw Hawkins (host): Coo See Coo

Jean Shepard: I Used To Love You

Cousin Jody: Money

Hawkshaw Hawkins: I'm Guilty Of Dreaming

Fiddle: Forked Deer

11:00: Coca-Cola

Hank Snow (host): Big Wheel

Willis Brothers: (?)

Justin Tubb: I Know You Do

Lonzo and Oscar: Hole In The Bottom Of The Sea

Hank Snow: I Heard My Heart Break Last Night

Billy Walker: Forever

Sam and Kirk McGee: I Saw Your Face In The Moon

Fruit Jar Drinkers: Black Berry Blossom

Willis Brothers: (?)

Hank Snow: Caribbean

11:30: Phillips & Buttorff

Wilma Lee and Stoney Cooper (host): There's A Big Wheel

Carlisles: Lil Liza Jane

Bill Anderson: Dead Or Alive
Wilma Lee and Stoney Cooper: Walking My Lord Up Calvary Hill

Fiddle Tune: Mississippi Sawyer

11:45: Roy Drusky (host): Another

Patsy Cline: Oh Lonesome Me

Rusty and Doug: Mr. Love
Roy Drusky: Wait And See
Fiddle Tune: Soldier's Joy

Just so much talent on that show. 

There you have it for this week. As always thanks for reading and commenting and I hope everyone has a great weekend.