Grand Ole Opry 6/19 & 6/20

Earlier this week, a friend of mine passed away. The name Jim Herzog might not mean anything to a few of you, but he was a great fan of the Grand Ole Opry. Much like me, Jim was one of the early members of the Grand Ole Opry Fan Club (yes, at one time there was a very active fan club). For many years, Jim, who lived in Michigan, would attend the Opry during Fan Fair week and the annual birthday celebrations. It was at one of the birthday weekends that I first met Jim, many years ago. We communicated on a regular basis, and he was more than generous with sharing items in his collection with me. 

One great memory I have of Jim is the night Rhonda Vincent was asked to become a member of the Opry. Jim called right after she received her invitation, so excited that Rhonda was finally going to be an Opry member that he was almost speechless. 

The last time I spoke with Jim was over the winter and while I can't remember the exact details of the call, I would assume it had to do with something I wrote on the blog, of which Jim was a regular reader. While Jim hadn't been at the Opry for a few years, he still listened to every Opry show. Personally, I was hoping that he would be able to attend the Opry's 100th last November but I am happy that he was able to watch the livestream that night. And yes, he did enjoy it. 

Much like Glen Thompson, who was the founder and president of the Grand Ole Opry Fan Club, Jim's love of the Opry started many, many years ago. He was a fan of the older acts and of bluegrass music. 

While many of you had never met Jim, there are several who read the blog who have. Like me, they enjoyed seeing and talking to Jim on every visit to the Opry. He was usually easy to find as he always wore his Grand Ole Opry jacket. 

One of the joys of writing this blog has been the number of Grand Ole Opry fans I have had the pleasure of connecting with, either in person at the Opry, via email or messaging, or with phone calls. Jim Herzog was one of the special ones and I will miss him. 

Now moving on to this weekend at the Grand Ole Opry and taking a look at the Friday Night Opry, there are four members on the schedule: Mark Wills, Gene Watson, Connie Smith and Riders In The Sky. Denitia, who made her Opry debut in 2024, is scheduled to appear, as is Mae Estes and Wyatt Ellis. Rounding out the Friday show, and making his Opry debut, Aaron Rowe. 

Saturday night will feature four different Opry members: Del McCoury, John Conlee, The Whites and T. Graham Brown. The legendary Hall of Famer Tanya Tucker will be making a guest appearance, along with Taylor Hicks, Colin Stough and Dennis Quaid. Between Tanya and Dennis, that makes for a pretty star studded show. 

Friday June 19
7:00: Mark Wills, Connie Smith, Aaron Rowe, Wyatt Ellis
Intermission
8:20: Denitia, Gene Watson, Mae Estes, Riders In The Sky

Saturday June 20
7:00: Opry Square Dancers, T. Graham Brown, Colin Stough, The Whites, Taylor Hicks
Intermission
8:20: John Conlee, Del McCoury Band, Opry Square Dancers, Dennis Quaid, Tanya Tucker

One of the great comedians in the history of the Grand Ole Opry, Whitey Ford, known as the Duke of Paducah, passed away on June 20, 1986. 

From The Tennessean June 22, 1986: 

The Duke of Paducah, a humorist known for his tag line "I'm goin' back to the wagon; these shoes are killin' me," is dead at age 85. 

The entertainer, whose real name was Benjamin "Whitey" Ford, died Friday at St. Thomas Hospital after being in failing health for several months. Services will be at 2:30 tomorrow at the Chapel of Roses of Woodlawn Funeral Home, with entombment at the Cross Mausoleum in Woodlawn Cemetery. 

Ford, known for his garish green outfits, was a short, stocky man who played banjo when not telling homespun tales in a drawling monotone. He performed as a regular cast member of the Grand Ole Opry from 1942 to 1958 and twice in recent years was among the finalists for induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame. 

In a 50-year show business career, Ford appeared with medicine shows, stage presentations, burlesque, dramatic tent shows and vaudeville. His outfit included a green hat, a green coat with brass buttons, green pants, a red bow tie and high button shoes. He never lived in a town called Paducah but got the name in 1935 while working at radio station KWK in St. Louis. He was born in Desoto, Mo. 

He appeared on the original Gene Autry radio show on WLS in Chicago and on the WLS Barn Dance show in Chicago. Ford spent nine years as the star and master of ceremonies on The Plantation Party, a nationally broadcast music and comedy show on NBC radio. 

"He was a fine gentleman," said Roy Acuff, 82, the "king of country music" and veteran Grand Ole Opry star. "He was a fine comedian. We'll miss him in the entertainment world." 

Back in April of that year, a group of Grand Ole Opry members that included Minnie Pearl, Roy Acuff, Chet Atkins, Jimmy Dickens, Bill Carlisle, Charlie Walker and Roy Drusky visited him and held a surprise party at the Hickory Hollow Health Care Center, where he was living due to his declining health. It was reported that Ford was in good spirits and warmly received his guests. At the party, Jimmy Dickens said, "If it wasn't for the Duke and Rod Brasfield and Minnie Pearl, there wouldn't be any Jimmy Dickens.”

In October of 1986, Whitey Ford was elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame, becoming only the second comedian to have been elected to the Hall. (What is interesting is that among the other finalists for the Hall that year were Rod Bradfield and Homer & Jethro). 

Although the Duke left the Opry and gave up his membership, he would still make occasional appearances on the show and would also appear on a few of the annual reunion shows, including the 1983 show. 

Here is the running order from that night, April 9, 1983: 

1st show
6:30: Mrs. Grissoms
Charlie Louvin (host): Let Her Go; God Bless Her
Ernie Ashworth: There's No Place I'd Rather Be Tonight
Del Wood: Are You from Dixie

6:45: Rudy's
Grandpa Jones (host): Apple Jack
Wilma Lee Cooper: A Daisy A Day
David Houston: Almost Persuaded
Grandpa Jones: Neighbors

7:00: Shoney's
Porter Wagoner (host): Y'all Come
Pee Wee King: Tennessee Waltz
Duke of Paducah: Ding Dong Daddy From Dumas
Jim Ed Brown: I Don't Want to Have to Marry You
Skeeter Davis: I Gotta Know; I Gotta Know
Curly Fox: The Old Gray Mule
Porter Wagoner: The Cowboy's Hat

7:30: Standard Candy
Bill Anderson (host): Southern Fried
Jean Shepard: Too Many Rivers
Roy Drusky: What About You
Crook Brothers/Stoney Mountain Cloggers: Lafayette
Bill Anderson: Thank You Darling for Loving Me

8:00: Martha White
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Sid Harkreader: Amazing Grace/Mockingbird Breakdown/Red Wing/Easter Parade
Connie Smith: Till I Kissed Ya
Roy Acuff: I Saw the Light

8:30: Acme
Hank Snow (host): Forever and One Day
4 Guys: Ruby Red
Jeanne Pruett: Satin Sheets
Jack Greene: There Goes My Everything
Paul Howard: Stay A Little Longer
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Saturday Night Hop
Hank Snow: Nevertheless, I'm In Love With You

2nd show
9:30: Kellogg's
Porter Wagoner (host): Ol' Slewfoot
Charlie Walker: Pick Me Up On Your Way Down
Jeannie Seely: He's All I Need
Del Wood: Down Yonder
Jimmy C Newman: La Cajun Band
Lonzo & Oscar: That Silver Haired Daddy of Mine
Porter Wagoner: The Cowboy's Hat

10:00: Little Debbie
Bill Anderson (host): How Married Are You Mary Ann
Jean Shepard: Home in San Antonio/Time Changes Everything/Roly Poly
Pee Wee King: Slow Poke/Tennessee Waltz
Bill Anderson: Golden Guitar

10:15: Sunbeam
Grandpa Jones (host): Mountain Dew
Billy Grammer: Blue Water
Bill Carlisle: Elvira
Ray Pillow: Too Many Memories

10:30: Martha White
Roy Acuff (host): I Couldn't Believe It Was True
Stu Phillips: Have I Told You Lately That I Love You/You Win Again/Release Me
Teddy Wilburn: Born to Love Me

10:45: Beech-Nut
Jim Ed Brown (host): Fools
Vic Willis Trio: You Feel Good All Over
Connie Smith: Satisfied
Crook Brothers/Stoney Mountain Cloggers: Rachel

11:00: Coca-Cola
Hank Snow (host): That Heart Belongs to Me
Hank Locklin: Tin Roof
Roy Drusky: Wings of A Dove
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Bile Them Cabbage Down
Curly Fox: Alabama Jubilee
Kirk McGee: While I'm Away
Hank Snow: I've Done at Least One Thing That Was good In My Life

11:30: Hardee's
Jack Greene (host): Happy Tracks
4 Guys: Ruby Red
Paul Howard: Come On In Baby; The Boogie's Fine Tonight
Jeanne Pruett: Temporarily Yours/It's Too Late
Jack Greene: From Cotton to Satin

It's been 40 years since the Duke of Paducah has passed away and sadly, he is largely forgotten. But for his time, he was a wonderful comedian and as Roy Acuff said, he was a fine gentleman, much loved and appreciated. 

Mid-Week Opry Shows

There is another full week of shows at the Grand Ole Opry beginning with the Tuesday Night Opry and an appearance by Opry member Darius Rucker. T. Graham Brown is also on the schedule, as is one of my personal favorites, Sunny Sweeney. Tyler Nance will be making his Opry debut. 

Tuesday June 16
7:00: T. Graham Brown, Sunny Sweeney, Tyler Nance, The SteelDrivers
Intermission
8:20: Aaron Weber, Tommy Emmanuel, Darius Rucker

There is another Opry debut on Wednesday night as Adrien Nunez is on the schedule, along with members Mandy Barnett, Connie Smith, Dailey & Vincent, The Whites and Charlie McCoy.

Wednesday June 17
7:00: Mandy Barnett, Connie Smith, Adrien Nunez, Dailey & Vincent
Intermission
8:20: The Whites, Ron Pope, Tenille Towns, Charlie McCoy

Finally, there will be two more Opry debuts on Thursday night: Jordan McCullough and Tori Kelly. Opry member Chris Young is back, as are Rhonda Vincent and Gene Watson. And closing out the show will be Neal McCoy. Who remembers his last Opry appearance from earlier this year? I am somewhat surprised he was invited back. 

Thursday June 18
7:00: Rhonda Vincent, Caroline Jones, Jordan McCullough, Chris Young
Intermission
8:20: Gene Watson, Redferrin, Tori Kelly, Neal McCoy

Tyler Nance who is debuting on Tuesday night, received his invitation to make his Opry debut from Tracy Lawrence. There was a time when Tracy was making a lot of Opry appearances and seemed in line to possibly become an Opry member. But then, he stopped coming. 

As far as Tyler, he blends emotionally honest songwriting with the traditions of Country, Bluegrass, Folk, and Americana. The 22-year-old Missouri native broke through with his current radio single “Keeps Me Sane,” which has amassed nearly 100 million global streams, landed among the Top 50 most viral songs worldwide, and reached the Top 40 on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart. Now boasting more than 187 million global streams and over 2.6 million monthly listeners on Spotify, Nance recently released his debut album, Midwest Memoir, via Santa Anna Nashville. The 17-track project features collaborations with Jackson Dean, Karley Scott Collins, and The Castellows.

Adrien Nunez was invited by Russell Dickerson to appear on the Opry. He is originally from Brooklyn and was a basketball star at the University of Michigan. After a move to LA, Nunez carved out a path as a successful influencer. Known for his signature red glasses and reaction videos, Adrien found a way to resonate with the masses by supporting some of the breakout stars in country music, including having a helping hand in the massive success of Shaboozey’s “A Bar Song (Tipsy)”.

His first single for Warner Records “LOW ROAD” (2024) was a viral hit that has since garnered millions of streams and captivated new and old fans alike. Since then, he’s released a constant flow of tracks that have established Nunez as a musical force of nature. He released his 6-song EP, Don't Wanna Go Home earlier this year and continues to work on his debut album. 

Jordan McCullough debuts on Thursday night. He was the American Idol Season 24 runner-up. The invitation came unexpectedly during a surprise visit to the Opry earlier in the month, when he was blindfolded and unknowingly walked onto the historic stage. Host Kelly Sutton told him, “We want you to come back here next month and make your Grand Ole Opry debut,” and McCullough accepted with excitement. The Opry surprise video showed McCullough initially confused and nervous, joking that it felt like “walking into a big bonfire” without knowing where he was going. Once he learned the truth, he embraced the moment, calling it “blowing my mind". As a hometown artist, stepping into the Opry circle in Nashville was described as nothing short of an honor.

Tori Kelly is the final debut this week. She is a three-time Grammy winner and Southern California–bred singer-songwriter. Her latest album, God Must Really Love Me was released in early 2026 Opry. The record, which she completed in just two months after giving birth to her first child, is described as a joyful, intimate exploration of love, identity, and self-protection. She crafted most of the songs in solitude before collaborating with producers/co-writers like DIXSON, Nija Charles, Emily Warren, and Ammo. While Kelly is best known for her R&B, pop, and gospel–infused work, her Opry debut marks a significant crossover moment,

Grand Ole Opry 6/12 & 6/13

This announcement was made last week by the Opry: 

NEW! OPRY HOUSE VIP SUITES

Enjoy the Opry show from your own private box on the stage wings, plus exclusive takeaways and extras delivered straight to your seat. Learn more about this new, exclusive space, now booking for June and July shows!

VIP Suite Inclusions:

Validated parking
Welcome drink in a souvenir glass
Official show poster
Souvenir copy of the Opry Family Album
In-suite food and beverage service
Sodas, water, popcorn, and charcuterie
Cookie tray delivered at intermission

For those familiar with the Grand Ole Opry House, these suites are located along the side of the stage where the old concession stands were at one time. The view of the seats is basically the same as if you were sitting closest to the wall in section one or seven. 

There are three rows of four seats each. The ticket price seems to fluctuate depending on the day of the week, the show and the row of the seat purchase. If you were to buy a seat in the box for this coming Saturday night, the price would be $265 in the first two rows and $239 in the last row. I would assume the view is the same for all of the seats. 

It will be interesting to see how this all goes. Could this be something that gets expanded over time?

Now moving ahead to this weekend at the Grand Ole Opry. Taking a look at the Friday Night Opry, members Craig Morgan, John Conlee, Henry Cho, Steven Curtis Chapman and Chris Janson are on the schedule. It is nice to see Chris back on the Opry's schedule, and it should be noted that as one of the Opry's newest members, Steven Curtis will be making his 5th appearance of the year. 

Saturday night's Grand Ole Opry is being dedicated to Bill Cody. I would expect Dan Rogers to again, give a heartfelt dedication and I am sure a lot of memories will be shared, not only on Saturday night, but also on Friday. There are only three Opry members on the Saturday schedule: Riders In The Sky, Dailey & Vincent and T. Graham Brown. 

Guesting on Friday are Tigirlily Gold and Steep Canyon Rangers. Very frequent Opry guest Charles Esten will be appearing on Saturday, along with The French Family Band, Payton Smith and making her Opry debut, Maisie Peters. 

Friday June 12
7:00: Craig Morgan, Tigirlily Gold, John Conlee, Steep Canyon Rangers
Intermission
8:20: Henry Cho, Steven Curtis Chapman, Chris Janson 

Saturday June 13
7:00: Opry Square Dancers, Riders In The Sky, Payton Smith, Maisie Peters, Dailey & Vincent
Intermission
8:20: The French Family Band, Opry Square Dancers, Charles Esten, T. Graham Brown 

(The Saturday lineup is the posted lineup that I received. After receiving it, John Carter & Ana Cristina Cash with Jamey Johnson was added to the lineup. Thus, the schedule posted is subject to change, and it will change)

Maisie Peters, who makes her Opry debut on Saturday, is from the UK. As the first female signee to Ed Sheeran's Gingerbread Man Records, she has built one of pop’s most dedicated fan bases across two critically acclaimed albums and over a billion streams. Her 2023 album, The Good Witch, hit #1 on the UK Official Album Chart, making her the youngest British female solo artist to achieve this since 2014. Maisie’s third studio album Florescence, co-produced with 2x GRAMMY winner Ian Fitchuck, was released on May 22nd via Atlantic/Gingerbread Man Records.

Taking a look back 25 years ago, Fan Fair was taking place in Nashville, but a lot of the attention was at the Grand Ole Opry House, 

From The Tennessean Friday June 15

While the industry's record labels and distributors worked hard to book excellent talent for Fan Fair's Adelphia Coliseum evening showcases, the weekend's greatest collection of singers, pickers, legend and upstarts can be found today and tomorrow at the Grand Ole Opry. 

All-time greats such as Porter Wagoner, Jimmy Dickens, Connie Smith, The Osborne Brothers and Bill Anderson will be there, as will critically acclaimed young bloods BR5-49 and Elizabeth Cook. In addition, three acts will be making their Opry debuts on the hallowed stage: Chris Gagle, Jamie O'Neal and indie hitmaker Mark McGuinn. 

This week's complete Opry schedule, including information about tomorrow's special matinee at Ryman Auditorium: 

Friday June 15
7:30: Porter Wagoner (host): The Whites, Bill Carlisle, BR5-49, Pam Tillis
8:00: Jim Ed Brown (host): Eric Heatherly, George Hamilton IV, Mark McGuinn, Jack Greene
8:30: Jimmy Dickens (host): Jeannie Seely, Osborne Brothers, Jamie O'Neal
9:00: Bill Anderson (host): Sara Evans, Charley Pride
9:30: Vince Gill (host): Mike Snider, Brad Paisley, Trisha Yearwood

Saturday June 16
Opry Matinee at The Ryman Auditorium
3:00: Porter Wagoner, Pam Tillis
3:30: Osborne Brothers, Connie Smith
4:00: Vince Gill, Jim Ed Brown
4:30: Jimmy Dickens, Patty Loveless

Saturday June 16
1st show
6:30: Steve Wariner (host): Connie Smith, Bill Carlisle, Osborne Brothers, Jim Lauderdale
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host): Jimmy C Newman, The Whites, Jim Ed Brown, Ricky Skaggs
7:30: Porter Wagoner (host): Chris Cagle, Mark McGuinn
8:00: Bill Anderson (host): Billy Walker, Charley Pride, Opry Square Dance Band, Melvin Sloan Dancers
8:30: Jimmy Dickens (host): Del Reeves, Hal Ketchum, Alan Jackson

2nd show
9:30: Porter Wagoner (host): Hal Ketchum, Chris Cagle, Connie Smith
10:00: Jimmy Dickens (host): Charlie Louvin, Jimmy C Newman, Charley Pride
10:30: Steve Wariner (host): Hank Locklin, Ricky Skaggs, Opry Square Dance Band, Melvin Sloan Dancers
11:00: Bill Anderson (host): Jan Howard, Billy Walker, Pam Tillis
11:30: Charlie Walker (host): Elizabeth Cook, Del Reeves, Mark McGuinn

A lot can happen in just 25 years. This about this. Of the Opry members who were on the schedule that weekend, Porter Wagoner, Bill Carlisle, Buck White, Jim Ed Brown, George Hamilton IV, Jack Greene, Jimmy Dickens, Jeannie Seely, Osborne Brothers, Charley Pride, Jimmy C Newman, Billy Walker, Melvin Sloan, Del Reeves, Hal Ketchum, Charlie Louvin, Hank Locklin and Jan Howard have all passed away. 

You blink an eye and so much is missed. 

Sad News: Bob Whittaker & Bill Cody

It was announced earlier this week that former Grand Ole Opry general manager Bob Whittaker had passed away. Bob became Vice-President and General Manager of the Opry in September 1993, replacing Hal Durham. In 1996 he was promoted to the position of President of the Grand Ole Opry Group of Gaylord Entertainment. In that position, he continued in charge of the Opry. In September 1998, Bob announced his retirement.

Bob was the last of the Opry general managers who came up through the ranks of WSM, Opryland or Gaylord Entertainment. Bob loved the Opry and was a very active part of the show. Many nights, Bob would come out and sing with the Carol Lee Singers, especially if it was a gospel song. Not only was Bob a fan of gospel music, but he also was a fan of bluegrass. In fact, when Bill Monroe's historic home came up for auction, Bob, on behalf of Gaylord, purchased the property and after Bill passed, would reside on the property. 

Continuing the trend that began with Hal Durham, Bob added a number of acts to the Opry's cast. Those included Joe Diffie, Hal Ketchum, Brother Oswald, Martina McBride, Steve Wariner, Johnny Paycheck and Diamond Rio. 

It was Bob Whittaker who began the new tradition of surprising artists with an offer of Opry membership while the artist was making a guest appearance on the Opry, with the actual induction to follow at a later date. Johnny Paycheck was the first, and many others followed. 

In the book 100 Years of Grand Ole Opry, written by Craig Shelburne, he wrote that after falling on a business trip to Florida, Bob made the decision to retire and moved onto his farm, and offered to be a consultant for the show. 

"I never got a call," Whittaker said. '"but I'm retired because of my health, and I also saw a change in the direction. I was too much a traditionalist, and a fan of the legends, to continue with what I thought was going to happen. And it did. And that's OK."

Bob was replaced as President of the Grand Ole Opry group by Steve Buchanan, who appointed Pete Fisher as the General Manager of the Opry. And we all know, the changes Bob feared, took place under Steve and Pete's watch. 

I had the privilege of meeting Bob once which was well after he left the Opry. While it was not a long conversation, I enjoyed seeing him and I told him how much I had enjoyed his time at the Opry. He thanked me for remembering who he was. 

Then last night came the news that WSM personality and Grand Ole Opry announcer Bill Cody had passed away. While the news was not a total surprise, it still came as a shock that he had passed away. 

Here is the official release from the Opry this morning: 

It is with great sorrow that we share the passing of beloved radio host Bill Cody, a singular voice on WSM-AM Nashville for 32 years. He passed away peacefully today, June 9, 2026, surrounded by his family. He was 67.

 With a broad smile and a conversational tone, Bill Cody had an unerring ability to make artists and listeners feel comfortable and welcome. Since 1994, he led WSM-AM’s flagship morning show, Coffee, Country & Cody, and developed the concept into a series on the Circle Network. In addition, Cody routinely served as host of the Grand Ole Opry, including the long-running Opry Country Classics.

His many other hosting credits included Master Series for Great American Country, Tennessee's Wild Side on public television, and the syndicated radio shows Classic Country Weekend With Bill Cody and Pure American Country. In the late 1990s Cody hosted mornings on WSM-FM before returning to the AM dial in 2000. He was inducted into the Country Music Disc Jockey Hall of Fame in 2008, received a star on the Music City Walk of Fame in 2024, and will be posthumously inducted into the Tennessee Radio Hall of Fame in 2026. 

 Cody’s father, a Southern Baptist preacher in Lebanon, Kentucky, recorded his sermons every Sunday, then dropped off the cassette tape at the local radio station WLBN to be played in the afternoon. Cody, at 12 years old, found the visits to the radio station so fascinating that his father arranged for him to spend time there occasionally, seeing the magic of broadcasting up close.

 His father grew up listening to the Grand Ole Opry and passed the love for the radio show on to his son. On a family trip from Kentucky to northern Alabama, where his father was from, the boy gazed out the car window as they passed by the Nashville skyline and wondered what it would be like to work and live in such a place. 

 Cody found a creative outlet through high school drama, telling Country Aircheck it was “a great catalyst for self-confidence, working a live audience, thinking on your feet and interacting with other people – the kind of teamwork you have doing mornings.”

 During a 1971 visit to Eastern Kentucky University in Richmond, he noticed a job posting for a deejay at Lexington station WVLK. He applied in person and got the job, working from 7 pm. to midnight. At the request of his new boss, the 17-year-old dropped his given name, Trent Clutts, and adopted the name Bill Cody in honor of one of his childhood heroes, “Buffalo Bill” Cody. He’d go on to work at WHAS and WCII in Louisville, Kentucky, WHOO in Orlando, Florida, and KKYX in San Antonio, Texas. 

 Bill Cody joined the staff at WSM on April 25, 1994, and brought in Charlie Daniels as his first in-studio guest. Over the next three decades, Cody forged innumerable friendships through his roles at WSM.

 Cody will be remembered for his kindness, humility, and genuine gift for connection. He was a trusted voice, a generous friend, and a constant companion to generations of listeners.

The Grand Ole Opry will dedicate the Saturday night show to Cody.

 Charlie Mattos, co-host/producer/WSM-AM, Coffee, Country & Cody:

“From superstar artists to coworkers to a listener he was meeting for the very first time, Bill Cody was a friend to us all. His passion, knowledge, and love of country music were unrivaled. A true icon in our business, it has been the privilege of a lifetime to share the microphone with him and call him a friend.”

Kelly Sutton, co-host/WSM-AM, Coffee, Country & Cody:

“Bill Cody and I instantly became friends 20 years ago and we became co-workers 5 years ago. I’ve watched him make artists feel at ease, comfort people who are hurting, champion new music and songwriters and simply fill up the room with joy. No one had a bigger laugh, a brighter smile or gave better hugs. I was so very lucky to have him as a mentor and a friend. We will always love you Bill.”

Carly Pearce, Grand Ole Opry Member:

 “Bill Cody devoted his life to telling the story of country music. With a legacy spanning decade, he will be marked as one of the greatest of all time. For me, he was so much more than that. He was my friend. He will be so very missed on this side of heaven, but I rejoice knowing he is with our Heavenly Father.”

 Garth Brooks, Grand Ole Opry Member:

“There might be someone somewhere in the world who loved Country Music as much, but nobody loved Country Music more than Bill Cody.”

Dierks Bentley, Grand Ole Opry Member:

 "Country Music has lost one of its pillars. Bill was just as important to the fabric of our music and city as any artist, songwriter or musician. No one loved Country Music, its history and its characters more than Bill Cody. Prayers to his family and Charlie and Kelly and everyone that knew and loved him at WSM and the Opry."

Colin Reed, Executive Chairman of the Board - Ryman Hospitality Properties, Inc.:

“Bill was an incredible spokesperson for country music and the Grand Ole Opry.  Bill was also my friend, and we shared so many special moments together as we expanded the reach of both the Grand Ole Opry and WSM. His legacy will live on forever.”

Patrick Moore, CEO, Opry Entertainment Group:

“Everyone at the Grand Ole Opry, in country music, in Nashville - and across the country - will remember Bill for his profound gravitas, his incredible voice, and his positive and infectious enthusiasm for country music. For those of us who were lucky enough to work with Bill as a colleague, he brightened every single day and changed our lives for the better. Bill will be sorely missed. Rest in Peace, Trent from Gravel Switch."

All across social media today, and on WSM radio, there are tributes being paid to Bill. He was an icon who lived his dream. Much like Grant Turmer, Bill devoted himself to WSM and to the Opry. And he enjoyed it all. 

From a personal standpoint, I can't believe that he was around WSM and the Opry for over 30 years. Just another example on how time flies. 

In all the years of seeing Bill at the Opry, and in passing him backstage, I actually was formally introduced to him just one time. It was a brief interaction, nothing special. 

2026 hasn't been kind to the Opry. First Don Schlitz and now Bill Cody. As has been mentioned by just about everyone else, Bill will be missed and remembered in a kind way.  

I could write more but I will leave that to those who knew Bill much better than I did. 

God Speed Bill Cody. 

Mid-Week Opry Shows

This week, the Grand Ole Opry begins what is basically their summer schedule, with mid-week Opry shows on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday nights. The highlight this week will be the Wednesday Night Opry when the Opry, as part of its series of "Opry 100 Honors" celebrates the legacy of Don Williams 

From the press release: 

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - (April 23, 2026) - As part of its ongoing Opry 100 celebration, the Grand Ole Opry, presented by Humana, continues the next in a series of” Opry 100 Honors” shows for June, celebrating the iconic Don Williams on June 10. Opry 100 Honors Don Williams will feature performances by Opry members Keith Urban, Trisha Yearwood, and more. Williams became an Opry member 50 years ago today, singing "The Shelter of Your Eyes" and "You're My Best Friend." 

A collection of previously unheard tracks by Don was discovered by his son Tim and longtime producer, Garth Fundis, and are to be released as a new album titled Epilogue: The Cellar Tapes. The new music is set to be released on May 29th via Craft Recordings. The recordings date from 1979 to 1984, a defining period in Williams’ career that produced enduring classics including “Good Ole Boys Like Me,” “It Must Be Love,” “I Believe in You,” “Lord, I Hope This Day Is Good,” and “Tulsa Time."

Urban has frequently named Williams as one of the biggest influences of his career. His father was a big fan of Williams so his music was a constant sound in Urban’s home. The Australia native has said Williams music sounds like his childhood. Urban collaborated with Williams on Williams’ track “Imagine That” in 2012 for one of the two duet tracks on Williams studio album And So It Goes.

Yearwood, who has cited Williams as one of her musical heroes, performed “Maggie’s Dream” on the 2017 tribute album Gentle Giants: The Songs of Don Williams. Yearwood and Williams both worked with famed producer Garth Fundis. Fundis was the architect behind Williams’ calm and measured sound throughout the late 1970s and 80s.

The special series of “Opry 100 Honors” shows, sponsored by Dan Post, pay tribute to several of the icons who have helped shape the Opry’s first century. Since the series launched in 2025, the Opry has honored music and Opry greats Loretta Lynn, Johnny Cash & June Carter Cash, Charlie Daniels, Porter Wagoner, Bill Monroe, Minnie Pearl and Roy Acuff, Hank Williams and Little Jimmy Dickens.

(Since the press release, several more artists have been added. In addition to Keith Urban and Trisha Yearwood, the schedule now includes Jamey Johnson, The Isaacs, Brandy Clark Rodney Crowell and John Foster)

Don Williams joined the Grand Ole Opry on April 23, 1976. Here is what the Tennessean wrote about that night: 

Country singer/songwriter Don Willians became the 60th member of the Grand Ole Opry last night. Introduced by Jeanne Pruett as "a superstar, a tremendous songwriter, a very gifted actor, a loving father and a wonderful husband," Willians sang The Shelter of Your Eyes and You're My Best Friend. 

A relative newcomer to the ranks of solo country artists, Williams maintained a characteristic modesty upon his selection to Opry membership. "To tell you the truth, I'm a little scared," he said before the initial appearance as a regular. "It's such an institution. I feel a whole lot the first night I walked on stage at the Ryman. It's a little bigger than life, or something." 

While he coped with microphone trouble while introducing his first song, Williams added, "I'm so nervous I'm about to fall over." But the jitters seemed unfounded when the crowd responded to his music. 

Williams gained his early musical fame in the 1960s through a folk/pop group he organized, the Pozo-Seco Singers. It was not until April 1972, that he recorded in a Nashville studio as a solo act, cutting at that time several country songs of his own composition. Since that time, he has had continued recording success (for the past two years with ABC's Dot) and has opened his own music publishing company. He also had a prominent role with Burt Reynolds and Jerry Reed in a movie W.W. and the Dixie Dancekings. 

Williams had made numerous guest appearances on the Opry before manager Hal Durham invited him to join the regular cast on Thursday. His selection for membership follows closely that of Ronnie Milsap, another young singer who came to country music in the relatively recent past after finding success in the pop music field. 

If Don had stayed as an Opry member, and had not passed away, Don would have celebrated his 50th anniversary as an Opry member this year. However, he made his last Opry appearance as a member on August 22, 1981, after which he quietly gave up his membership. Even though he was no longer an Opry member, he still came back to make an occasional appearance. While nothing was really said at the time, with his career taking off and experiencing some medical issues, it was apparent that Don felt that Opry membership, and the commitment to the Opry was something that he no longer wanted to do. 

Wednesday June 10 
7:00: John Foster, Rodney Crowell, Brandy Clark, The Isaacs
Intermission
8:20: Jamey Johnson, Trisha Yearwood, Keith Urban

In addition to the Wednesday night show, there is also a Tuesday and Thursday night Opry show this week. 

The Tuesday Night Opry features members T. Graham Brown and Mandy Barnett. Also on the schedule are Nate Smith, Drew Baldridge, Jo Dee Messina, Straight No Chaser, Travelin' McCourys and making her Opry debut, Caitlynne Curtis. 

On the Thursday Night Opry, Scotty McCreery is scheduled, as are Rhonda Vincent and Charlie McCoy. Non-members listed are Kaitlin Butts, Kip Moore, and two groups who will be making their Opry debuts. Amble and Jason Scott & The High Heat, 

Tuesday June 9
7:00: T. Graham Brown, Drew Baldridge, Caitlynne Curtis, Jo Dee Messina
Intermission
8:20: Mandy Barnett, Straight No Chaser, Nate Smith, The Travelin' McCourys

Thursday June 11
7:00: Rhonda Vincent, Jason Scott & The High Heat, Charlie McCoy, Kip Moore
Intermission
8:20: Kaitlin Butts, Amble, Scotty McCreery

Grand Ole Opry 6/5 & 6/6

For the past three weeks, I have featured a group of Grand Ole Opry member who have gone missing and have not appeared on the Opry in years. Previously I highlighted Josh Turner, Little Big Town and Diamond Rio. This week, the spotlight shines on Opry members Rascal Flatts, who last appeared on the Opry over 6 years ago, on Tuesday December 3, 2019. 

Rascal Flatts joined the Grand Ole Opry in October 2011. In fact, their induction took place during the Opry's 86th birthday celebration. Like the others previously mentioned, the group was fairly good with their Opry appearances, averaging between 5 and 9 shows each year, with the majority of those taking place on the Tuesday Night Opry. 

While it is true that the group broke up for a period of time and stopped performing, they have been back touring and on the road for the past several years. Yet, they have not appeared on the Opry. To be fair, individually, they have appeared with Jay DeMarcus and Gary LeVox each appearing several times. But not the group. 

As is the case with Josh Turner, Little Big Town and Diamond Rio, the hope is that they will find their way back to the Opry stage soon. Like the others, they are missed. 

Now looking ahead to this weekend at the Grand Ole Opry, as CMA Fest continues, there are three shows on the schedule: the Friday Night and Saturday Grand Ole Opry shows, along with a special matinee show at the Ryman Auditorium. 

Taking a look at the Friday Night Opry, Opry member Vince Gill heads up the lineup that also includes Old Crow Medicine Show, Connie Smith and Mark Wills. Deana Carter will be making a guest appearance, as will Maggie Rose, Jordan Davis and Maddox Batson. 

Vince is back on Saturday night, along with Suzy Bogguss, Riders In The Sky and Pam Tillis, Guesting are Rhett Akins and Sister Sadie. 

Pam Tillis, Riders In The Sky and Sister Sadie will be making it a two-show day as in addition to the evening show at the Opry House, they are also on the schedule for the matinee show at the Ryman. Also listed are Mark Wills, making it a two show weekend for him, Morgan Myles, Bryce Leatherwood and Chancey Williams. 

Friday June 5
7:00: Mark Wills, Connie Smith, Maddox Batson, Old Crow Medicine Show
Intermission
8:20: Deana Carter, Maggie Rose, Jordan Davis, Vince Gill

Saturday June 6
Matinee at Ryman
2:00: Bryce Leatherwood, Riders In The Sky, Chancey Williams, Pam Tillis
Intermission
3:20: Mark Wills, Morgan Myles, Sister Sadie

Saturday June 6
7:00: Opry Square Dancers, Riders In The Sky, Rhett Akins, John Conlee, Pam Tillis
Intermission
8:20: Sister Sadie, Opry Square Dancers, Suzy Bogguss, Vince Gill

I can remember when Fan Fair weekend at the Opry brought out some of the biggest names and numerous Opry members. Not so much anymore as the main draw for the stars are the stadium shows that CMA Fest has downtown. But back decades ago, the Opry, along with the Midnite Jamboree was where the action was. This doesn't take anything away from the artists at the Opry this weekend as it is a solid lineup. But in many ways, it is pretty much a normal weekend at the Opry House. 

In the history of the Grand Ole Opry, some members are with the show until they pass away, while others just sort of fade away and disappear. One of those members was Tom T. Hall, who on Saturday June 6, 1992 performed on the Opry for the final time. 

One of 10 children born to a Baptist minister, Tom T. began playing guitar at age four and wrote his first song at nine. In his teens, he formed a bluegrass band, which performed locally. After a stint in the Army, while working as a radio copywriter in Roanoke, Virginia, he wrote songs on the side that were recorded by Jimmy C. Newman, Johnnie Wright, Dave Dudley, and Bobby Bare.

After moving to Nashville in 1964, he had several early hit recordings of his own, including “I Washed My Face in the Morning Dew,” and when Jeannie C. Riley’s recording of his “Harper Valley P.T.A.” sold six million copies and swept away multiple awards, Tom T.’s own recording career at Mercury Records accelerated. That career continued through more than 45 albums. For two years, he hosted the syndicated TV program Pop Goes the Country and made guest appearances on several other shows.

He has written 12 No. 1 hit songs, with 26 more that reached the Top 10, including the No. 1 international pop crossover smash "Harper Valley PTA" and the hit "I Love", which reached No. 12 on the Billboard Hot 100. He is included in Rolling Stones list of 100 Greatest Songwriters. He became known to fans as "The Storyteller," thanks to his storytelling skills in his songwriting.

In his later years, Tom T. supervised acoustic sessions at his own recording studio, continued to write those utterly distinctive songs, and could be seen at venues from Nashville’s Station Inn to festivals across the country in support of the bluegrass music he holds especially dear.

Tom T. has authored a string of books, including an autobiography, a songwriting textbook, and several novels. His songs continue to be recorded with by bluegrass bands and country and Americana acts alike.

In the course of his career, Tom T. has received numerous honors. He was inducted into the Kentucky Music Hall of Fame in 2002.  On February 12, 2008, he was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame. In regard to Hall's longer-than-anticipated wait to be inducted, he attributed it to being somewhat reclusive and "not well liked" among the Nashville music industry, noting that he almost never collaborated with other songwriters and by the 1990s was largely out of step with the corporate style of country music.

In November 2018 Tom T. and his wife Dixie were inducted into the International Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and in June 2019, he was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame.

Tom T. Hall originally joined the Opry on January 1, 1971. He left the Opry after the move to new Grand Ole Opry House in 1974 but returned as a member in on March 28, 1980. In January 2021, he was recognized upon his 50th anniversary as an Opry member. 

In the years after his final Opry appearance, he reportedly told people that he didn't understand why the Opry kept him as a member as he had no intention of coming back to the show. By that point in his career, he was performing very little, concentrating on his bluegrass recording and songwriting with Dixie.

Here is the running order from Saturday June 6, 1992, Tom T. Hall's final Opry appearance:

1st show
6:30: GHS Strings
Porter Wagoner (host): Ol' Slewfoot
Jim Ed Brown: Lyin' In Love With You
Porter Wagoner: What Ain't to Be, Just Might Happen

6:45: Country Music Hall of Fame
Grandpa Jones (host): Going Down the Country
Charlie Walker: Roly Poly
Del Reeves: Two Dollars in the Jukebox/A Dime at at Time/Looking at the World Thru a Windshield
Grandpa Jones: Dear Old Sunny South by the Sea

7:00: Shoney's
Tom T Hall (host): Ravishing Ruby
Ray Pillow: Someone Had to Teach You
Jeanne Pruett: Satin Sheets
Billy Grammer: Somebody Loves You
Skeeter Davis: The End of the World
Tom T Hall: Old Dogs, Children & Watermelon Wine

7:30: Standard Candy
Bill Monroe (host): Mule Skinner Blues
Brooks & Dunn: Another Neon Moon/Boot Scoop Boogie
Randy Travis: Better Class of Losers/He Walked on Water/Diggin' Up Bones
Bill Monroe: Bluegrass Breakdown

8:00: Martha White
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
The Four Guys: I'm Bound for Higher Ground/We're Only Here for a Little While
Mike Snider: (?): Puttin; on the Dog (The Fur Coat)
Opry Square Dance Band and The Stoney Mountain Cloggers: Sail Away Ladies
Roy Acuff: Blue Eyes Cryin' in the Rain/How Beautiful Heaven Must Be

8:30: Opryland
Hank Snow (host): Silver Rails, Keep Me Free
Charlie Louvin and Charles Whitstein: The Family Who Prays
Jeanne Seely: When He Leaves You
Hank Locklin: My Turning Point in Life
Jack Greene: There's a Whole Lot About a Woman A Man Don't Know
Hank Snow: Let Me Go Lover

2nd show
9:30: Dollar General
Porter Wagoner (host): Dooley
Wilma Lee Cooper: Singing Waterfall
Billy Walker: Cross the Brazos at Waco
Brooks & Dunn: Another Neon Moon/Boot Scoop Boogie/Brand New Man
Porter Wagoner: Carolee Cooper Accident/Green, Green Grass of Home

10:00: Little Debbie
Grandpa Jones (host): Ain't it Hard
Stonewall Jackson: Why I'm Walkin'
Bill Carlisle: No Help Wanted
Grandpa Jones: I'll Meet You in the Morning

10:15: Tennessee Pride/Sunbeam
Roy Acuff (host): Sunshine Special
Jim Ed Brown: Pop A Top/The 3 Bells

10:30: Pet Milk
Tom T Hall (host): The Year That Clayton Delaney Died
Roy Drusky: Too Old to Die Young
Tom T Hall: I Love

10:45: B.C. Powder
Bill Monroe (host): Why Did You Wander
Del Reeves: A Dozen Pair of Boots
Opry Square Dance Band and The Stoney Mountain Cloggers: Sugar in the Goard
Bill Monroe: Wayfaring Stranger

11:00: Coca Cola
Hank Snow (host): There's A Fool Such As I
Charlie Louvin and Charles Whitstein: Nobody's Darling But Mine
Billy Grammer: Ain't Misbehaving
The Four Guys: How Married Are You Mary Ann/May You Always
Hank Snow: I've Done at Least One Thing That Was Good in My Life

11:30: Creamette
Jack Greene (host): Satisfied
Hank Locklin: Please Help Me, I'm Falling
Jeannie Seely: Too Far Gone
Mike Snider: Shuckin' the Corn/Snuff Dipper
Jack Greene: Status of a Fool

Some Opry members I miss more than others. Tom T. is one of those. 

Mid-Week Opry Shows--Updated

Updated with the Wednesday night lineup:

The upcoming weekend is CMA Fest. In what has become an annual tradition at the Grand Ole Opry, there will be mid-weeks shows on Tuesday and Wednesday nights leading up to the formal start of the festival on Thursday.

In what has also become a yearly tradition, there will be two shows on Tuesday night as Opry member Carrie Underwood will be appearing. While many will be excited to see and hear Carrie, I am sure that an equally number of fans will be anxious to see the recent winner of American Idol, Hannah Harper, who will be making her Opry debut that night. 

The schedule also includes Opry members Bill Anderson, Henry Cho and Dailey & Vincent, with Avery Anna and Drake Milligan rounding it out. 

While most of the focus will be on Tuesday night, Wednesday night also offers a solid show with members Steven Curtis Chapman, Mandy Barnett, Rhonda Vincent and Charlie McCoy scheduled. Also appearing are Flatland Cavalry, Laci Kaye Booth and Lanie Gardner. 

Tuesday June 2
1st show
7:00: Dailey & Vincent, Bill Anderson, Avery Anna, Henry Cho
8:00: Drake Milligan, Hannah Harper, Carrie Underwood

2nd show
9:30: Dailey & Vincent, Bill Anderson, Carrie Underwood, Avery Anna
10:30: Henry Cho, Drake Milligan, Hannah Harper

While most of the focus will be on Tuesday night, Wednesday night also offers a solid show with members Steven Curtis Chapman, Mandy Barnett, Rhonda Vincent and Charlie McCoy scheduled. Also scheduled to appear are Flatland Cavalry, Laci Kaye Booth and Lanie Gardner. 

Wednesday June 3
7:00: Rhonda Vincent, T. Graham Brown, Laci Kaye Booth, Steven Curtis Chapman
Intermission
8:20: Mandy Barnett, Charlie McCoy, Lanie Gardner, Flatland Cavalry