The Grand Ole Opry has posted their line ups for all 3 shows this weekend. The Opry continues it's spring schedule of 1 show on Friday Night and 2 shows on Saturday night. With the recent death of Earl Scruggs, I am sure that the Opry will dedicate the shows this weekend to Earl.
And it is rather appropriate that bluegrass will be heavily featured on the Opry this weekend with Ricky Skaggs scheduled for both shows on Saturday night, along with Sam Bush. Also scheduled this weekend is Jesse McReynolds, Bobby Osborne and Rhonda Vincent.
Joining Ricky on Saturday night will be Crystal Gayle, who many feel should have been an Opry member long ago. Joining them will be Keith & Kristlyn Getty, who are modern Christian artists. Also scheduled for Saturday night is Opry veteran Stu Phillips. Stu has not been on the Opry since before Christmas and to be honest, he has not sounded good at all in his recent appearances.
The Friday Night Opry will feature non-Opry members Randy Montana, Billy Yates and Elizabeth Cook. Finally, all 3 shows this weekend will feature Patty Loveless, who has one of the sweetest voices in country or bluegrass music.
Friday March 30
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Jimmy C Newman; Randy Montana
7:30: The Whites (host); Billy Yates; Rhonda Vincent
INTERMISSION
8:15: Bill Anderson (host); Jan Howard; Elizabeth Cook
8:45: Jim Ed Brown (host); Jesse McReynolds; Patty Loveless
Saturday March 31
1st show
7:00: Jim Ed Brown (host); Jimmy C Newman; Sam Bush
7:30: Ricky Skaggs (host); Jeannie Seely; Keith & Kristyn Getty
8:00: Mike Snider (host); Stu Phillips; Crystal Gayle; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Bill Anderson (host); John Conlee; Patty Loveless
2nd show
9:30: Mike Snider (host); Jim Ed Brown; Patty Loveless
10:00: John Conlee (host); Jeannie Seely; Sam Bush
10:30: Ricky Skaggs (host); The Whites; Keith & Kristyn Getty; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Bill Anderson (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Crystal Gayle
3 very nice shows for this weekend. 12 artists are scheduled for each show, of whom 8 are Opry members on Friday night and 9 are Opry members on each show on Saturday night. Also, among the missing again this weekend are Jimmy Dickens, Jean Shepard and Jack Greene.
Nationally recognized independent Grand Ole Opry historian Byron Fay offers news and comments regarding country music's premier show.
Thursday, March 29, 2012
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
Earl Scruggs Dies At Age 88
Country Music Hall of Fame member and former Grand Ole Opry member Earl Scruggs passed away earlier this morning at the age of 88. His son Gary said that he died of natural causes.
Earl Scruggs was born in Flint Hill, North Carolina on January 6, 1924. He, along with Lester Flatt, formed the Foggy Mountain Boys, and they did much to popularize bluegrass music. Their sound became widely recognized in the 1960s through their recording of "The Ballad of Jed Clampett" the theme for the network television show, "The Beverly Hillbillies."
Earl grew up in a rural farm home and spend time working in the textile mills before becoming a full time musician. By the time he was a teen, he had developed a distinctive banjo style that enabled him to play a broad variety of music with speed and clarity. He met Lester Flatt in 1945, when he joined Bill Monroe's Blue Grass Boys, and became a part of the most influential line up in history, which included Chubby Wise and Cedric Rainwater. In 1948, Flatt and Scruggs left Bill Monroe's band and formed their own group, the Foggy Mountain Boys. They started out working in various areas of Tennessee and in 1950 they signed with Columbia Records.
In 1953 Martha White started sponsoring their shows, including an early morning radio program on WSM in Nashville. Two years later, dispite the objections of Bill Monroe, they became members of the Grand Ole Opry. During the late 1950s and 1960s, their syndicated television show was seen throughout the Southeast and drew millions of viewers. Later, they took their music to new audiences through television and appearances at the Newport Folk Festival and at various folk clubs and college auditoriums. In 1967, their recording of "Foggy Mountain Breakdown" was used in the movie "Bonnie and Clyde."
In 1969, musical and personal differences caused Flatt & Scruggs to split. Lester wanted to stay with a more traditional bluegrass sound, while Earl wanted to be more progressive and to travel and play with his sons. Earl formed the Earl Scruggs review, and stayed as a member of the Grand Ole Opry for a short period of time. In 1985, Earl, along with Lester, were elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame.
Earl is considered one of the most influential musicians in the history of bluegrass music and he recorded with just about everyone. It is appropriate that Ricky Skaggs and Patty Loveless, who were both followers of Earl are scheduled to be on the Opry this weekend. And although Earl gave up his Opry membership long ago, he still performed on the show. I had the pleasure of seeing him several years ago and he was outstanding as usual.
Prayers and thoughts go to his family.
Earl Scruggs was born in Flint Hill, North Carolina on January 6, 1924. He, along with Lester Flatt, formed the Foggy Mountain Boys, and they did much to popularize bluegrass music. Their sound became widely recognized in the 1960s through their recording of "The Ballad of Jed Clampett" the theme for the network television show, "The Beverly Hillbillies."
Earl grew up in a rural farm home and spend time working in the textile mills before becoming a full time musician. By the time he was a teen, he had developed a distinctive banjo style that enabled him to play a broad variety of music with speed and clarity. He met Lester Flatt in 1945, when he joined Bill Monroe's Blue Grass Boys, and became a part of the most influential line up in history, which included Chubby Wise and Cedric Rainwater. In 1948, Flatt and Scruggs left Bill Monroe's band and formed their own group, the Foggy Mountain Boys. They started out working in various areas of Tennessee and in 1950 they signed with Columbia Records.
In 1953 Martha White started sponsoring their shows, including an early morning radio program on WSM in Nashville. Two years later, dispite the objections of Bill Monroe, they became members of the Grand Ole Opry. During the late 1950s and 1960s, their syndicated television show was seen throughout the Southeast and drew millions of viewers. Later, they took their music to new audiences through television and appearances at the Newport Folk Festival and at various folk clubs and college auditoriums. In 1967, their recording of "Foggy Mountain Breakdown" was used in the movie "Bonnie and Clyde."
In 1969, musical and personal differences caused Flatt & Scruggs to split. Lester wanted to stay with a more traditional bluegrass sound, while Earl wanted to be more progressive and to travel and play with his sons. Earl formed the Earl Scruggs review, and stayed as a member of the Grand Ole Opry for a short period of time. In 1985, Earl, along with Lester, were elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame.
Earl is considered one of the most influential musicians in the history of bluegrass music and he recorded with just about everyone. It is appropriate that Ricky Skaggs and Patty Loveless, who were both followers of Earl are scheduled to be on the Opry this weekend. And although Earl gave up his Opry membership long ago, he still performed on the show. I had the pleasure of seeing him several years ago and he was outstanding as usual.
Prayers and thoughts go to his family.
Saturday, March 24, 2012
Breaking News----Carol Lee Cooper Announces Retirement
On tonight's Grand Ole Opry, Carol Lee Cooper announced her retirement. She appeared on Marty Stuart's segment and received a great ovation from the audience. In addition, she received a special framed poster from Opry general manager Pete Fisher, and was joined on stage by the other Carol Lee Singers. (I will say that Marty treated her like gold on stage tonight).
For those of us to follow the Opry, this is not a real surprise. Carol Lee has battled health and voice issues for the past year, and has not been on the Opry stage since last winter. She was on a YouTube video about a month ago with Larry Black where she talked briefly about being healthy again and praising God for her recovery.
I am happy that Opry management gave her some nice recognition before she left the Opry. I know it had been speculated earlier, on other websites and addressed on this one, that Carol Lee had been fired right after her mom, Wilma Lee Cooper, had passed away. I did not believe that story then and still do not believe it now. I think her retirement was her decision.
It is really the end of another era at the Opry. Carol Lee has been around the show since her parents came in the late 1950s. She performed with them and was part of her mothers act after Stoney Cooper passed away. And of course all the years leading the Carol Lee Singers. She also spent a few years as the announcer on the Ernest Tubb Midnight Jamboree.
Here is hoping that Carol Lee enjoys her retirement and that her health continues to improve. It would be nice if Larry Black would have her as a guest on his show, Larry's Country Dinner and maybe we will hear more from her on the Opry Country Reunion shows on RFD.
Carol Lee, thanks for the memories. You will be missed.
For those of us to follow the Opry, this is not a real surprise. Carol Lee has battled health and voice issues for the past year, and has not been on the Opry stage since last winter. She was on a YouTube video about a month ago with Larry Black where she talked briefly about being healthy again and praising God for her recovery.
I am happy that Opry management gave her some nice recognition before she left the Opry. I know it had been speculated earlier, on other websites and addressed on this one, that Carol Lee had been fired right after her mom, Wilma Lee Cooper, had passed away. I did not believe that story then and still do not believe it now. I think her retirement was her decision.
It is really the end of another era at the Opry. Carol Lee has been around the show since her parents came in the late 1950s. She performed with them and was part of her mothers act after Stoney Cooper passed away. And of course all the years leading the Carol Lee Singers. She also spent a few years as the announcer on the Ernest Tubb Midnight Jamboree.
Here is hoping that Carol Lee enjoys her retirement and that her health continues to improve. It would be nice if Larry Black would have her as a guest on his show, Larry's Country Dinner and maybe we will hear more from her on the Opry Country Reunion shows on RFD.
Carol Lee, thanks for the memories. You will be missed.
Thursday, March 22, 2012
Grand Ole Opry 3/23 & 3/24
The Grand Ole Opry has posted the schedule for the shows this weekend. There is 1 show on Friday night and 2 shows on Saturday night, along with the Tuesday Night Opry.
This weekend marks the return of Marty Stuart to the Opry stage. His last appearance was way back in July, which is not the norm for someone who has supported the Opry so strongly over the years. I know there was some speculation if there was an issue between Marty and the Opry's management, but there is nothing that I have heard of. Marty is scheduled to host on all 3 shows this weekend.
Joining Marty on Friday night will be Opry members Ricky Skaggs and Joe Diffie, along with Opry favorites Restless Heart. Also booked for the Friday night show are a couple of newcomers, Dustin Lynch and Mallary Hope.
Saturday night's show featured non-Opry members Exile, The Grascals and Frankie Ballard. Also appearing on Saturday night is Yuki Miyamae. Yes, I had to look her up and she is a female singer from Japan and from her YouTube video, I was not terribly impressed. Her website is written in Japanese, so I was unable to gain anything from that. And then you have The Dirt Drifters, who like Yuki, will be making their Opry debut.
Missing from the shows this weekend is Jimmy Dickens, who cancelled out of the Tuesday night Opry, while Jean Shepard and Jack Greene also are not scheduled.
Friday March 23
7:00: Ricky Skaggs (host); The Whites; Mallary Hope
7:30: Mike Snider (host); Jimmy C Newman; Joe Diffie
INTERMISSION
8:15: Bill Anderson (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Restless Heart
8:45: Marty Stuart (host); Dustin Lynch; Connie Smith
Saturday March 24
1st show
7:00: Mike Snider (host); Jimmy C Newman; Frankie Ballard
7:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Yuki Miyamae; The Dirt Drifters
8:00: Marty Stuart (host); Connie Smith; The Grascals; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Bill Anderson (host); Jim Ed Brown; Exile
2nd show
9:30: Jeannie Seely (host); The Whites; Frankie Ballard
10:00: Ray Pillow (host); Yuki Miyamae; The Dirt Drifters
10:30: Marty Stuart (host); Connie Smith; The Grascals; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Bill Anderson (host); Jim Ed Brown; Exile
Yes, Ray Pillow is back on the Opry this weekend and is hosting a segment. That is a surprise to me as Jim Ed Brown is available and could have hosted a segment. Ray is usually the person they go to when there is no one else available in their ususal rotation of segment hosts.
All 3 shows this weekend have 12 artists booked, of whom 9 are Opry members on Friday night and 7 are Opry members on each show Saturday night. Also, Jim Ed Brown will be the host of this week's Ernest Tubb Midnight Jamboree.
Finally, here is the line up for the Tuesday Night Opry on March 27, and this show will be a sellout:
7:00: Jim Ed Brown
7:30: Steep Canyon Rangers; Connie Smith
INTERMISSION
8:15: Del McCoury Band; Dierks Bentley; Carrie Underwood
All but 1 are Opry members and it is nice to see Carrie back on the Opry.
This weekend marks the return of Marty Stuart to the Opry stage. His last appearance was way back in July, which is not the norm for someone who has supported the Opry so strongly over the years. I know there was some speculation if there was an issue between Marty and the Opry's management, but there is nothing that I have heard of. Marty is scheduled to host on all 3 shows this weekend.
Joining Marty on Friday night will be Opry members Ricky Skaggs and Joe Diffie, along with Opry favorites Restless Heart. Also booked for the Friday night show are a couple of newcomers, Dustin Lynch and Mallary Hope.
Saturday night's show featured non-Opry members Exile, The Grascals and Frankie Ballard. Also appearing on Saturday night is Yuki Miyamae. Yes, I had to look her up and she is a female singer from Japan and from her YouTube video, I was not terribly impressed. Her website is written in Japanese, so I was unable to gain anything from that. And then you have The Dirt Drifters, who like Yuki, will be making their Opry debut.
Missing from the shows this weekend is Jimmy Dickens, who cancelled out of the Tuesday night Opry, while Jean Shepard and Jack Greene also are not scheduled.
Friday March 23
7:00: Ricky Skaggs (host); The Whites; Mallary Hope
7:30: Mike Snider (host); Jimmy C Newman; Joe Diffie
INTERMISSION
8:15: Bill Anderson (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Restless Heart
8:45: Marty Stuart (host); Dustin Lynch; Connie Smith
Saturday March 24
1st show
7:00: Mike Snider (host); Jimmy C Newman; Frankie Ballard
7:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Yuki Miyamae; The Dirt Drifters
8:00: Marty Stuart (host); Connie Smith; The Grascals; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Bill Anderson (host); Jim Ed Brown; Exile
2nd show
9:30: Jeannie Seely (host); The Whites; Frankie Ballard
10:00: Ray Pillow (host); Yuki Miyamae; The Dirt Drifters
10:30: Marty Stuart (host); Connie Smith; The Grascals; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Bill Anderson (host); Jim Ed Brown; Exile
Yes, Ray Pillow is back on the Opry this weekend and is hosting a segment. That is a surprise to me as Jim Ed Brown is available and could have hosted a segment. Ray is usually the person they go to when there is no one else available in their ususal rotation of segment hosts.
All 3 shows this weekend have 12 artists booked, of whom 9 are Opry members on Friday night and 7 are Opry members on each show Saturday night. Also, Jim Ed Brown will be the host of this week's Ernest Tubb Midnight Jamboree.
Finally, here is the line up for the Tuesday Night Opry on March 27, and this show will be a sellout:
7:00: Jim Ed Brown
7:30: Steep Canyon Rangers; Connie Smith
INTERMISSION
8:15: Del McCoury Band; Dierks Bentley; Carrie Underwood
All but 1 are Opry members and it is nice to see Carrie back on the Opry.
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
Remembering Marion Worth
I wanted to take a moment to remember former Grand Ole Opry member Marion Worth, who on March 22, 1980, made her final appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. While never one of the superstars of the music business, Marion was one of the more popular female members of the Opry from the early 1960s through the 70s. She joined the Opry in 1963 and continued an Opry member before leaving in 1980 when she had some health issues. Up until she left the show, she had been appearing just about every week.
Marion Worth was born Mary Ann Ward on July 4, 1930 in Birmingham, Alabama. She learned to play the piano at an early age and by the age of 10 was entering local talent contests. In high school, she studied medical training, as she wanted to become a nurse. But after continuing to enter local talent contests and starting work as a bookkeeper for a record company, she decided to pursue a career in music. She made her raio debut on KLIF in Dallas, Texas, before returning to Birmingham to work at WVOK and WAPI, while also appearing on WAPI-TV. She met singer/songwriter Happy Wilson who began recording her.
In 1959, she had her first hit, "Are You Willing, Willie" on Cherokee Records. That song went to #15 on the country charts. In 1960, she had a top 5 song with "That's My Kind of Love." After that hit, Jack Stapp signed her to the Grand Ole Opry's Friday Night Frolic show. She then signed with Columbia Records and was produced by Don Law and Frank Jones. She had a top 10 hit with "I Think I Know.", followed in 1961 by "There'll Always Be Sadness." After that, she did not have another chart record until 1963 when she recorded "Shake Me I Rattle (Squeeze Me I Cry", which went into the top 15 and crossed over on the pop charts. After that, she recorded a number of songs that made the country charts, but never breaking the top 20.
As her recording career ended, she remained a member of the Grand Ole Opry, and continued singing in Las Vegas and Canada, where she was popular. She was one of the first country music performers to perform at Carneige Hall in New York City, as well as one of the first to play Las Vegas.
Marion passed away on December 19, 1999 in Nashville at the Tennessee Christian Medical Center from complications of emphysema. She was 69 years old.
To honor Marion Worth, here is the Opry line up from Saturday March 22, 1980, when she made her final Opry appearance. She was only on the 2nd show that night, but I have posted the line up from both shows as in addition to Marion's final night, it was also the annual 'reunion show" or as it was called, "old-timers night". The show included Alcyone Beasley, Duke of Paducah, Curly Fox, Zeke Clements and Paul Howard, among others.
1st show
6:00: Vietti
Charlie Louvin (host): Will You Visit Me On Sundays
Skeeter Davis: The End Of The World
Lonzo & Oscar: Rocky Top
Billy Grammer: Indian Love Call
Paul Howard: Stay A Little Longer
Charlie Louvin: Apartment #9
6:30: Mrs Grissoms
Roy Drusky (host): Second Hand Rose
Vic Willis: Faded Love/Maiden's Prayer
Del Wood: Down Yonder
Roy Drusky: Strangers
6:45: Rudys
Justin Tubb (host): You Nearly Lose Your Mind
Jim & Jesse: Let Me Whisper
Justin Tubb: What's Wrong With The Way That We're Doing It Now
7:00: Shoneys
Porter Wagoner (host): Ole Slewfoot
Connie Smith: When I Need Jesus, He's There
Wilburn Brothers: It Look's Like The Sun's Gonna Shine
Zeke Clements: Just A Little Lovin/Why Should I Cry Over You/Smoke On The Water
Porter Wagoner: I've Enjoyed As Much Of This As I Can Stand/Everything I've Always Wanted/Tennessee Saturday Night
7:30: Standard Candy
Roy Acuff (host): Bald Knob, Arkansas
Wilma Lee Cooper: Poor Ellen Smith
Sid Harkreader: Sally Goodin/Amazing Grace
Alcyone Beasley: Silver Threads Among The Gold/Little Shoes
Crook Brothers/Tennessee Travelers: Lafayette
Roy Acuff: I'll Fly Away
8:00: Martha White
Bill Monroe (host): Mule Skinner Blues
Stonewall Jackson: Don't Be Angry/Washed My Hands In The Muddy Water
Charlie Walker: Pick Me Up On Your Way Down/Don't Play Me No Songs About Texas
Bill Carlisle: Shanghai Rooster
Bill Monroe: Just A Little Talk With Jesus
8:30: Acme
Hank Snow (host): Hello Love
4 Guys: Hangin' On
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Nubbing Ridge
Curly Fox: The Old Grey Mule/Mockingbird
Duke Of Paducah: Comedy
Hank Snow & Kelly Foxton: Stop Me From Loving You
2nd show
9:30 Kelloggs
Porter Wagoner (host): Sugarfoot Rag
Charlie Louvin: Who's Gonna Love Me Now
Lonzo & Oscar: Fox On The Run
Billy Grammer: Am I Blue
Skeeter Davis: It Wasn't God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels
Porter Wagoner: A Satisfied Mind/I Thought I Heard You Calling My Name/You're Old Love Letters
10:00: Little Debbie
Jim & Jesse (host): Sleepy-Eyed John
Vic Willis: Beer Barrel Polka
Del Wood: Keep On The Firing Line
Jim & Jesse: Paradise
10:15: Union 76
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Justin Tubb: Lonesome 7-7203
Roy Drusky: Welcome Home
Roy Acuff: Lord, Don't Give Up On Me
10:30: Trailblazer
Bill Monroe (host): It's Mighty Dark For Me To Travel/Blue Moon Of Kentucky
Connie Smith: Sing, Sing, Sing
Wilma Lee Cooper: The Legend Of The Dogwood Tree
Bill Monroe: My Sweet Blue-Eyed Darling
10:45: Beechnut
Wilburn Brothers (host): Release Me
Charlie Walker: Pick Me Up On Your Way Down
Crook Brothers: Gray Eagle
Wilburn Brothers: The Light House/God Bless America Again
11:00: Coca-Cola
Hank Snow (host): There's A Fool Such As I
Bill Carlisle: Same Ol' Tale That The Crow Told Me
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Hickory Leaf
Duke Of Paducah: Comedy
Kirk McGee: Railroad Blues
Hank Snow & Kelly Foxton: Hasn't It Been Good Together
11:30: Budweiser
Stonewall Jackson (host): Me & You & A Dog Named Boo
4 Guys: Let Your Love Flow/Daddy's Little Cowboy
MARION WORTH: SOMEONE IS LOOKING FOR SOMEONE LIKE YOU
Curly Fox: Alabama Jubilee
Stonewall Jackson: Why I'm Walkin/Waterloo
Like I mentioned, Marion was never on of the superstars of the Opry, but she was one of those solid members that made up the "backbone" of the show. She had a nice, pleasant voice and was a fine ballad singer.
Marion Worth was born Mary Ann Ward on July 4, 1930 in Birmingham, Alabama. She learned to play the piano at an early age and by the age of 10 was entering local talent contests. In high school, she studied medical training, as she wanted to become a nurse. But after continuing to enter local talent contests and starting work as a bookkeeper for a record company, she decided to pursue a career in music. She made her raio debut on KLIF in Dallas, Texas, before returning to Birmingham to work at WVOK and WAPI, while also appearing on WAPI-TV. She met singer/songwriter Happy Wilson who began recording her.
In 1959, she had her first hit, "Are You Willing, Willie" on Cherokee Records. That song went to #15 on the country charts. In 1960, she had a top 5 song with "That's My Kind of Love." After that hit, Jack Stapp signed her to the Grand Ole Opry's Friday Night Frolic show. She then signed with Columbia Records and was produced by Don Law and Frank Jones. She had a top 10 hit with "I Think I Know.", followed in 1961 by "There'll Always Be Sadness." After that, she did not have another chart record until 1963 when she recorded "Shake Me I Rattle (Squeeze Me I Cry", which went into the top 15 and crossed over on the pop charts. After that, she recorded a number of songs that made the country charts, but never breaking the top 20.
As her recording career ended, she remained a member of the Grand Ole Opry, and continued singing in Las Vegas and Canada, where she was popular. She was one of the first country music performers to perform at Carneige Hall in New York City, as well as one of the first to play Las Vegas.
Marion passed away on December 19, 1999 in Nashville at the Tennessee Christian Medical Center from complications of emphysema. She was 69 years old.
To honor Marion Worth, here is the Opry line up from Saturday March 22, 1980, when she made her final Opry appearance. She was only on the 2nd show that night, but I have posted the line up from both shows as in addition to Marion's final night, it was also the annual 'reunion show" or as it was called, "old-timers night". The show included Alcyone Beasley, Duke of Paducah, Curly Fox, Zeke Clements and Paul Howard, among others.
1st show
6:00: Vietti
Charlie Louvin (host): Will You Visit Me On Sundays
Skeeter Davis: The End Of The World
Lonzo & Oscar: Rocky Top
Billy Grammer: Indian Love Call
Paul Howard: Stay A Little Longer
Charlie Louvin: Apartment #9
6:30: Mrs Grissoms
Roy Drusky (host): Second Hand Rose
Vic Willis: Faded Love/Maiden's Prayer
Del Wood: Down Yonder
Roy Drusky: Strangers
6:45: Rudys
Justin Tubb (host): You Nearly Lose Your Mind
Jim & Jesse: Let Me Whisper
Justin Tubb: What's Wrong With The Way That We're Doing It Now
7:00: Shoneys
Porter Wagoner (host): Ole Slewfoot
Connie Smith: When I Need Jesus, He's There
Wilburn Brothers: It Look's Like The Sun's Gonna Shine
Zeke Clements: Just A Little Lovin/Why Should I Cry Over You/Smoke On The Water
Porter Wagoner: I've Enjoyed As Much Of This As I Can Stand/Everything I've Always Wanted/Tennessee Saturday Night
7:30: Standard Candy
Roy Acuff (host): Bald Knob, Arkansas
Wilma Lee Cooper: Poor Ellen Smith
Sid Harkreader: Sally Goodin/Amazing Grace
Alcyone Beasley: Silver Threads Among The Gold/Little Shoes
Crook Brothers/Tennessee Travelers: Lafayette
Roy Acuff: I'll Fly Away
8:00: Martha White
Bill Monroe (host): Mule Skinner Blues
Stonewall Jackson: Don't Be Angry/Washed My Hands In The Muddy Water
Charlie Walker: Pick Me Up On Your Way Down/Don't Play Me No Songs About Texas
Bill Carlisle: Shanghai Rooster
Bill Monroe: Just A Little Talk With Jesus
8:30: Acme
Hank Snow (host): Hello Love
4 Guys: Hangin' On
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Nubbing Ridge
Curly Fox: The Old Grey Mule/Mockingbird
Duke Of Paducah: Comedy
Hank Snow & Kelly Foxton: Stop Me From Loving You
2nd show
9:30 Kelloggs
Porter Wagoner (host): Sugarfoot Rag
Charlie Louvin: Who's Gonna Love Me Now
Lonzo & Oscar: Fox On The Run
Billy Grammer: Am I Blue
Skeeter Davis: It Wasn't God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels
Porter Wagoner: A Satisfied Mind/I Thought I Heard You Calling My Name/You're Old Love Letters
10:00: Little Debbie
Jim & Jesse (host): Sleepy-Eyed John
Vic Willis: Beer Barrel Polka
Del Wood: Keep On The Firing Line
Jim & Jesse: Paradise
10:15: Union 76
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Justin Tubb: Lonesome 7-7203
Roy Drusky: Welcome Home
Roy Acuff: Lord, Don't Give Up On Me
10:30: Trailblazer
Bill Monroe (host): It's Mighty Dark For Me To Travel/Blue Moon Of Kentucky
Connie Smith: Sing, Sing, Sing
Wilma Lee Cooper: The Legend Of The Dogwood Tree
Bill Monroe: My Sweet Blue-Eyed Darling
10:45: Beechnut
Wilburn Brothers (host): Release Me
Charlie Walker: Pick Me Up On Your Way Down
Crook Brothers: Gray Eagle
Wilburn Brothers: The Light House/God Bless America Again
11:00: Coca-Cola
Hank Snow (host): There's A Fool Such As I
Bill Carlisle: Same Ol' Tale That The Crow Told Me
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Hickory Leaf
Duke Of Paducah: Comedy
Kirk McGee: Railroad Blues
Hank Snow & Kelly Foxton: Hasn't It Been Good Together
11:30: Budweiser
Stonewall Jackson (host): Me & You & A Dog Named Boo
4 Guys: Let Your Love Flow/Daddy's Little Cowboy
MARION WORTH: SOMEONE IS LOOKING FOR SOMEONE LIKE YOU
Curly Fox: Alabama Jubilee
Stonewall Jackson: Why I'm Walkin/Waterloo
Like I mentioned, Marion was never on of the superstars of the Opry, but she was one of those solid members that made up the "backbone" of the show. She had a nice, pleasant voice and was a fine ballad singer.
Friday, March 16, 2012
March 16, 1974-Grand Opening of the Grand Ole Opry House
38 years ago on Saturday March 16, 1974, the Grand Ole Opry House opened and the Opry was held there for the first time. It was a historic night that featured President Richard Nixon, along with his wife Pat. As you would expect, the majority of the Opry's members were there.
The first show started at 6:30 and all of the artists scheduled appeared basically in alphabetical order. With the appearance of President Nixon and other invited guests, the first show lasted until 10:15. The 2nd show started at 10:45 (1:15 minutes late) and lasted until 1:54 am. The other interesting thing to note from that night was that the show was not really broken up into segments with hosts. The commercials were played close to the time scheduled, but the way the show was set up, most of the introductions were made by the staff announcers.
The first show began with the Fruit Jar Drinkers and the voice of Grant Turner. The formal procedings began with Opry star Billy Grammer giving the invocation and WSM president Irving Waugh having a few words. After that, it was time for the show to start. The house lights dimmed, the curtain rose, and there was a huge white scrim. Projecting on it was the picture of George D Hay from the 1940 movie, "Grand Ole Opry." "First we're gonna hear from Roy Acuff and his Smoky Mountain Boys," the movie voice of The Solemn Old Judge intoned. "Smoke it up, Roy!" And there was a young Roy Acuff from 34 years earlier. A dark-haired Acuff with a serious demeanor. Bashful Brother Oswald's dobro gave it's signature introduction and the movie voice of Roy began singing the Wabash Cannonball. The the scrim began to rise and behind it and merging in was Roy Acuff live, singing and not missing a beat. The audience rose with a standing ovation. As Roy continued singing, the lights came on and the Opry cast members came out behind Roy singing away.
On opening night, the audience for the first show that sat in the lower level were by invitation only, while others could sit in the balcony. That meant the lower level contained with country music bigwigs, local business people, Opry sponsors, journalists, politicians, which included four Governors, two Senators and thirteen Congressmen. The 2nd show contained your typical Opry crowd. (one of the Governors there was George Wallace from Alabama, who stayed the entire show in his wheelchair and was much more popular among Opry members than the President.
Last year I printed the running order from the 1st night at the Opry House and I received a lot of emails and positive responses, including a few that said they had never actually seen the line up from that night. With that response, and knowing that I have picked up a number of new readers in the past year, here is the running order of opening night at the new Grand Ole Opry House, March 16, 1974.
1st show:
Roy Acuff: Wabash Cannonball/You Are My Sunshine
Howdy Forrester/Ralph Sloan & The Tennessee Travelers: Fiddle Tune
Bill Anderson: Po' Folks
Ernie Ashworth: Talk Back Trembling Lips
Jim Ed Brown: Morning
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper: Big Midnight Special
Roy Drusky: Satisfied Mind
Jerry Clower: Marcel's Talking Chain Saw
Crook Brothers/Stoney Mountain Cloggers: Black Mountain Rag
Billy Grammer: Gotta Travel On
Jack Greene: There Goes My Everything
Jeannie Seely: Don't Touch Me
Jack Greene & Jeannie Seely: Wish I Didn't Have To Miss You
Stonewall Jackson: Don't Be Angry
President Richard Nixon Introduced On Stage
Opry Cast: Happy Birthday Mrs. Nixon
Richard Nixon: My Wild Irish Rose (played on piano by President Nixon)
Roy Acuff and Opry Cast: Stay A Little Longer
Opry Cast: God Bless America
Jan Howard: My Kind Of People
Fruit Jar Drinkers/Ralph Sloan Dancers: Sally Goodin
Jim & Jesse: Freight Train
Grandpa Jones: Are You From Dixie
Hank Locklin: Danny Boy
Lonzo & Oscar: Traces Of Life
Bobby Lord: Live Your Life Out Loud
Charlie Louvin & Darrell McCall: American Trilogy
George Morgan: You Turn Me On
Jeanne Pruett: Satin Sheets
Jimmy C Newman: Jambalaya
Osborne Brothers: Rocky Top
Stu Phillips: There Must Be Another Way To Say Goodbye
Ray Pillow: Countryfried
Del Reeves: Lay A Little Lovin On Me
Jean Shepard: Second Fiddle
Hank Snow: I'm Moving On
Connie Smith: How Great Thou Art
4 Guys: Cottonfields/Maria
Ernest Tubb: Walking The Floor Over You
Minnie Pearl: Jealous Hearted Me
Justin Tubb: Bad Bad Leroy Brown
Charlie Walker: Pick Me Up On Your Way Down
Dottie West: Country Sunshine
Wilburn Brothers: Arkansas
Del Wood: Down Yonder
Willis Brothers: Truck Stop
Marion Worth: Delta Dawn
Sam McGee: San Antonio Rose
Porter Wagoner: I've Never Seen So Many Happy Faces
Dolly Parton: Jolene
Porter Wagoner & Dolly Parton: The Right Combination
2nd show
10:47: Kelloggs
Roy Acuff: Back In The Country
Howdy Forrester: Eighth Of January
Minnie Pearl: Comedy
Bill Anderson: A World Of Make Believe
Ernie Ashworth: Honky Tonk Hardwood Floor
Jim Ed Brown: The Three Bells
11:16: Fender
Ernest Tubb: Waltz Across Texas
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper: Little Darling Pal Of Mine
Roy Drusky: Don't It Make You Want To Go Home
Crook Brothers: Liberty
Billy Grammer: Somewhere My Love
11:37: Union 76
Jack Greene: Statue Of A Fool
Jeannie Seely: Can I Sleep In Your Arms Tonight, Mister?
Jack Greene & Jeannie Seely: What In The World Has Gone Wrong With Our Love
11:50: Trailblazer
Porter Wagoner: I've Never Seen So Many Happy Faces
Dolly Parton: Jolene
Porter Wagoner & Dolly Parton: The Right Combination
12:02 Beechnut
Jan Howard: Sunshine On My Shoulder
Stonewall Jackson: Me & You & A Dog Named Boo
Jim & Jesse: Paradise
12:15 Coca-Cola
Grandpa Jones: Heading South With Nashville On My Mind
Connie Smith: Dallas
Bobby Lord: Mississippi
Charlie Louvin: You're My Wife; She's My Woman
Jerry Clower: The Last Piece Of Chicken
George Morgan: Red Rose From The Blue Side Of Town
Jeanne Pruett: Satin Sheets
Jimmy C Newman: Potato Song
Osborne Brothers: Ruby
Stu Phillips: There Must Be Another Way To Say Goodbye
Ray Pillow: Countryfried
1:01: Elm Hill
Del Reeves: Lay A Little Lovin On Me
Sam & Kirk McGee: Rollin' In My Sweet Baby's Arms
Hank Snow: There's A Fool Such As I
4 Guys: Let Me Be There
Justin Tubb: Ramblin' Man
Charlie Walker: Don't Squeeze My Charmin
Dottie West: Country Sunshine
Wilburn Brothers: Knoxville Girl
Del Wood: There's A Big Wheel
Marion Worth: Me & Bobby McGee
Marty Robbins: Devil Woman
Ronnie Robbins: Mama Tried
Marty Robbins: I'm Wanting To/Big Boss Man/Singing The Blues
The Opry members that were missing that night were Bobby Bare, Archie Campbell, Bill Carlisle, Lester Flatt, Tom T Hall, David Houston, George Jones, Bob Luman ,Loretta Lynn, Barbara Mandrell, Bill Monroe, Earl Scruggs, Billy Walker and Tammy Wynette.
On the 1st show only were Hank Locklin, Lonzo & Oscar, Jean Shepard and the Willis Brothers, with Marty Robbins on the 2nd show only.
What was interesting was that Bob Luman, Bill Carlisle, Archie Campbell, Billy Walker and Bobby Bare were all on the Friday Night Opry the night before.
Now a note on Tom T Hall. Tom T was actually scheduled for the opening night, but he quit the Opry between Friday night at the Ryman and Saturday at the new Opry House. Or did he? According to Tom T, "It's true that when the Opry left the old Ryman I didn't go with it. But I'm a romantic, you know. I didn't care about the new Opry House at first, it just didn't set right with me. Just out of a romantic notion." Tom T did rejoin the Opry in 1980.
A couple of the classic quotes from that night included Jan Howard, following the President, "I've had some tough acts to follow in my career, but this is unreal. I wouldn't wish a spot like this on a dry cleaner." And Minnie Pearl, who did not get on stage until after 9:30, "I've been waitin' to go on for so long, my dress has gone out of style."
The Ernest Tubb Midnight Jamboree lasted until 3:00am. At that point, I think everyone was tired from the long night.
Anyways, I hope you enjoy the look back at opening night.
The first show started at 6:30 and all of the artists scheduled appeared basically in alphabetical order. With the appearance of President Nixon and other invited guests, the first show lasted until 10:15. The 2nd show started at 10:45 (1:15 minutes late) and lasted until 1:54 am. The other interesting thing to note from that night was that the show was not really broken up into segments with hosts. The commercials were played close to the time scheduled, but the way the show was set up, most of the introductions were made by the staff announcers.
The first show began with the Fruit Jar Drinkers and the voice of Grant Turner. The formal procedings began with Opry star Billy Grammer giving the invocation and WSM president Irving Waugh having a few words. After that, it was time for the show to start. The house lights dimmed, the curtain rose, and there was a huge white scrim. Projecting on it was the picture of George D Hay from the 1940 movie, "Grand Ole Opry." "First we're gonna hear from Roy Acuff and his Smoky Mountain Boys," the movie voice of The Solemn Old Judge intoned. "Smoke it up, Roy!" And there was a young Roy Acuff from 34 years earlier. A dark-haired Acuff with a serious demeanor. Bashful Brother Oswald's dobro gave it's signature introduction and the movie voice of Roy began singing the Wabash Cannonball. The the scrim began to rise and behind it and merging in was Roy Acuff live, singing and not missing a beat. The audience rose with a standing ovation. As Roy continued singing, the lights came on and the Opry cast members came out behind Roy singing away.
On opening night, the audience for the first show that sat in the lower level were by invitation only, while others could sit in the balcony. That meant the lower level contained with country music bigwigs, local business people, Opry sponsors, journalists, politicians, which included four Governors, two Senators and thirteen Congressmen. The 2nd show contained your typical Opry crowd. (one of the Governors there was George Wallace from Alabama, who stayed the entire show in his wheelchair and was much more popular among Opry members than the President.
Last year I printed the running order from the 1st night at the Opry House and I received a lot of emails and positive responses, including a few that said they had never actually seen the line up from that night. With that response, and knowing that I have picked up a number of new readers in the past year, here is the running order of opening night at the new Grand Ole Opry House, March 16, 1974.
1st show:
Roy Acuff: Wabash Cannonball/You Are My Sunshine
Howdy Forrester/Ralph Sloan & The Tennessee Travelers: Fiddle Tune
Bill Anderson: Po' Folks
Ernie Ashworth: Talk Back Trembling Lips
Jim Ed Brown: Morning
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper: Big Midnight Special
Roy Drusky: Satisfied Mind
Jerry Clower: Marcel's Talking Chain Saw
Crook Brothers/Stoney Mountain Cloggers: Black Mountain Rag
Billy Grammer: Gotta Travel On
Jack Greene: There Goes My Everything
Jeannie Seely: Don't Touch Me
Jack Greene & Jeannie Seely: Wish I Didn't Have To Miss You
Stonewall Jackson: Don't Be Angry
President Richard Nixon Introduced On Stage
Opry Cast: Happy Birthday Mrs. Nixon
Richard Nixon: My Wild Irish Rose (played on piano by President Nixon)
Roy Acuff and Opry Cast: Stay A Little Longer
Opry Cast: God Bless America
Jan Howard: My Kind Of People
Fruit Jar Drinkers/Ralph Sloan Dancers: Sally Goodin
Jim & Jesse: Freight Train
Grandpa Jones: Are You From Dixie
Hank Locklin: Danny Boy
Lonzo & Oscar: Traces Of Life
Bobby Lord: Live Your Life Out Loud
Charlie Louvin & Darrell McCall: American Trilogy
George Morgan: You Turn Me On
Jeanne Pruett: Satin Sheets
Jimmy C Newman: Jambalaya
Osborne Brothers: Rocky Top
Stu Phillips: There Must Be Another Way To Say Goodbye
Ray Pillow: Countryfried
Del Reeves: Lay A Little Lovin On Me
Jean Shepard: Second Fiddle
Hank Snow: I'm Moving On
Connie Smith: How Great Thou Art
4 Guys: Cottonfields/Maria
Ernest Tubb: Walking The Floor Over You
Minnie Pearl: Jealous Hearted Me
Justin Tubb: Bad Bad Leroy Brown
Charlie Walker: Pick Me Up On Your Way Down
Dottie West: Country Sunshine
Wilburn Brothers: Arkansas
Del Wood: Down Yonder
Willis Brothers: Truck Stop
Marion Worth: Delta Dawn
Sam McGee: San Antonio Rose
Porter Wagoner: I've Never Seen So Many Happy Faces
Dolly Parton: Jolene
Porter Wagoner & Dolly Parton: The Right Combination
2nd show
10:47: Kelloggs
Roy Acuff: Back In The Country
Howdy Forrester: Eighth Of January
Minnie Pearl: Comedy
Bill Anderson: A World Of Make Believe
Ernie Ashworth: Honky Tonk Hardwood Floor
Jim Ed Brown: The Three Bells
11:16: Fender
Ernest Tubb: Waltz Across Texas
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper: Little Darling Pal Of Mine
Roy Drusky: Don't It Make You Want To Go Home
Crook Brothers: Liberty
Billy Grammer: Somewhere My Love
11:37: Union 76
Jack Greene: Statue Of A Fool
Jeannie Seely: Can I Sleep In Your Arms Tonight, Mister?
Jack Greene & Jeannie Seely: What In The World Has Gone Wrong With Our Love
11:50: Trailblazer
Porter Wagoner: I've Never Seen So Many Happy Faces
Dolly Parton: Jolene
Porter Wagoner & Dolly Parton: The Right Combination
12:02 Beechnut
Jan Howard: Sunshine On My Shoulder
Stonewall Jackson: Me & You & A Dog Named Boo
Jim & Jesse: Paradise
12:15 Coca-Cola
Grandpa Jones: Heading South With Nashville On My Mind
Connie Smith: Dallas
Bobby Lord: Mississippi
Charlie Louvin: You're My Wife; She's My Woman
Jerry Clower: The Last Piece Of Chicken
George Morgan: Red Rose From The Blue Side Of Town
Jeanne Pruett: Satin Sheets
Jimmy C Newman: Potato Song
Osborne Brothers: Ruby
Stu Phillips: There Must Be Another Way To Say Goodbye
Ray Pillow: Countryfried
1:01: Elm Hill
Del Reeves: Lay A Little Lovin On Me
Sam & Kirk McGee: Rollin' In My Sweet Baby's Arms
Hank Snow: There's A Fool Such As I
4 Guys: Let Me Be There
Justin Tubb: Ramblin' Man
Charlie Walker: Don't Squeeze My Charmin
Dottie West: Country Sunshine
Wilburn Brothers: Knoxville Girl
Del Wood: There's A Big Wheel
Marion Worth: Me & Bobby McGee
Marty Robbins: Devil Woman
Ronnie Robbins: Mama Tried
Marty Robbins: I'm Wanting To/Big Boss Man/Singing The Blues
The Opry members that were missing that night were Bobby Bare, Archie Campbell, Bill Carlisle, Lester Flatt, Tom T Hall, David Houston, George Jones, Bob Luman ,Loretta Lynn, Barbara Mandrell, Bill Monroe, Earl Scruggs, Billy Walker and Tammy Wynette.
On the 1st show only were Hank Locklin, Lonzo & Oscar, Jean Shepard and the Willis Brothers, with Marty Robbins on the 2nd show only.
What was interesting was that Bob Luman, Bill Carlisle, Archie Campbell, Billy Walker and Bobby Bare were all on the Friday Night Opry the night before.
Now a note on Tom T Hall. Tom T was actually scheduled for the opening night, but he quit the Opry between Friday night at the Ryman and Saturday at the new Opry House. Or did he? According to Tom T, "It's true that when the Opry left the old Ryman I didn't go with it. But I'm a romantic, you know. I didn't care about the new Opry House at first, it just didn't set right with me. Just out of a romantic notion." Tom T did rejoin the Opry in 1980.
A couple of the classic quotes from that night included Jan Howard, following the President, "I've had some tough acts to follow in my career, but this is unreal. I wouldn't wish a spot like this on a dry cleaner." And Minnie Pearl, who did not get on stage until after 9:30, "I've been waitin' to go on for so long, my dress has gone out of style."
The Ernest Tubb Midnight Jamboree lasted until 3:00am. At that point, I think everyone was tired from the long night.
Anyways, I hope you enjoy the look back at opening night.
Thursday, March 15, 2012
Grand Ole Opry 3/16 & 3/17
Let me first start off by commenting that over the past several weeks, the Grand Ole Opry has offered some pretty good shows. All 3 shows last weekend were sellouts and featured such artists as Keith Urban, Brad Paisley, Alison Krauss and Charlie Daniels. The shows sounded very good on the radio. It just shows that when the Opry offers something that is of value, it makes for a much more entertaining show and the fans will respond.
Looking at this weekend's line-ups, I don't think they are as strong as the past several weeks, but they are pretty good. Vince Gill will be appearing on all 3 shows this weekend, and on Friday night he will be joined by frequent guest artists Sarah Darling, Mark Wills and Will Hoge. Saturday night's Grand Ole Opry will feature, along with Vince, Larry Gatlin, Kellie Pickler and The Black Lillies. In addition, since it is St. Patrick's Day, the Nashville Irish Step Dancers will be making their annual appearance.
Friday March 16
7:00: John Conlee (host); Jim Ed Brown; Casey James
7:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jesse McReynolds; Sarah Darling
INTERMISSION
8:15: Mike Snider (host); Jan Howard; George Hamilton IV; Mark Wills
8:45: Vince Gill (host); Will Hoge; Connie Smith
Saturday March 17
1st show
7:00: Jimmy Dickens (host); Nashville Irish Step Dancers; Connie Smith
7:30: Mike Snider (host); Andy Gibson; Jim Ed Brown
8:00: Larry Gatlin (host); Jimmy C Newman; Kellie Pickler; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Vince Gill (host); John Conlee; The Whites; The Black Lillies
2nd show
9:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Nashville Irish Step Dancers; Kellie Pickler
10:00: Mike Snider (host); Jeannie Seely; Jimmy C Newman; Andy Gibson
10:30: Larry Gatlin (host); Bobby Osborne & Rocky Top X-Press; The Black Lillies; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Vince Gill (host); John Conlee; The Whites
There are 13 artists scheduled on Friday night, of which 9 are Opry members, while there are also 13 artists scheduled for each show on Saturday night, of which 9 are Opry members on each show.
Finally, here is the line up for the Tuesday Night Opry on March 20:
7:00: Jeannie Seely; Dailey & Vincent
7:30: Jimmy Dickens; Steve Wariner
INTERMISSION
8:15: The Whites; Craig Morgan
8:45: John Conlee; Chris Young
Not a bad show.
Looking at this weekend's line-ups, I don't think they are as strong as the past several weeks, but they are pretty good. Vince Gill will be appearing on all 3 shows this weekend, and on Friday night he will be joined by frequent guest artists Sarah Darling, Mark Wills and Will Hoge. Saturday night's Grand Ole Opry will feature, along with Vince, Larry Gatlin, Kellie Pickler and The Black Lillies. In addition, since it is St. Patrick's Day, the Nashville Irish Step Dancers will be making their annual appearance.
Friday March 16
7:00: John Conlee (host); Jim Ed Brown; Casey James
7:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jesse McReynolds; Sarah Darling
INTERMISSION
8:15: Mike Snider (host); Jan Howard; George Hamilton IV; Mark Wills
8:45: Vince Gill (host); Will Hoge; Connie Smith
Saturday March 17
1st show
7:00: Jimmy Dickens (host); Nashville Irish Step Dancers; Connie Smith
7:30: Mike Snider (host); Andy Gibson; Jim Ed Brown
8:00: Larry Gatlin (host); Jimmy C Newman; Kellie Pickler; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Vince Gill (host); John Conlee; The Whites; The Black Lillies
2nd show
9:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Nashville Irish Step Dancers; Kellie Pickler
10:00: Mike Snider (host); Jeannie Seely; Jimmy C Newman; Andy Gibson
10:30: Larry Gatlin (host); Bobby Osborne & Rocky Top X-Press; The Black Lillies; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Vince Gill (host); John Conlee; The Whites
There are 13 artists scheduled on Friday night, of which 9 are Opry members, while there are also 13 artists scheduled for each show on Saturday night, of which 9 are Opry members on each show.
Finally, here is the line up for the Tuesday Night Opry on March 20:
7:00: Jeannie Seely; Dailey & Vincent
7:30: Jimmy Dickens; Steve Wariner
INTERMISSION
8:15: The Whites; Craig Morgan
8:45: John Conlee; Chris Young
Not a bad show.
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
March 15, 1974-Final Opry Show At The Ryman
Continuing with the history of the Grand Ole Opry in March, Friday March 15, 1974 was the final Opry show held at the "old" Ryman Auditorium. History dictated that the 1st show in the new Opry House would take place on a Saturday night, so on the Friday before the grand opening, they closed out the Ryman.
Over the years, the Opry has produced a copy of the program that was sold at the Ryman on that final night, but as I list the running order of the show, and if you have a copy of that program to compare it to, you will notice a couple of differences. Not many, but a couple.
Here is the running order of that final show at the Ryman, on Friday March 15, 1974:
7:00: Cracker Barrel
Roy Drusky (host): Alone With You
Del Reeves: Lay A Little Lovin' On Me
Jan Howard: The One You Slip Around With
Charlie Walker: Pick Me Up On Your Way Down
Roy Drusky: Satisfied Mind
Del Reeves: Girl On The Billboard
Jan Howard: Rock Me Back To Little Rock
Charlie Walker: Wanting My Woman Again
Roy Drusky: Second Hand Rose
7:30: Varallo
Bill Anderson (host): If You Can Live With It
Bob Luman: Lonely Women Make Good Lovers
Jim & Jesse: Diesel On My Tail
Mary Lou Turner: Poor Sweet Baby
Bill Anderson: A World Of Make Believe
Bob Luman: When You Say Love
Jim & Jesse: Paradise
Bill Anderson: Po' Folks
8:00: Tennessee Pride/U.S. Borax
Archie Campbell (host): Make Friends
Bobby Bare: Ride Me Down Easy
Dottie West: Country Sunshine
Justin Tubb: Ramblin' Man
Phil Campbell: Valley Of The Never Do No Good
Bobby Bare & Bobby Bare Jr: Daddy, What If
Dottie West: Here Comes My Baby
Justin Tubb: Traveling Singing Man
8:30: Kroger
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Jean Shepard: Second Fiddle
Stonewall Jackson: Me & You & A Dog Named Boo
Minnie Pearl: Careless Love
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper: There's A Big Wheel
Roy Acuff: Back In The Country
Jean Shepard: At The Time
Stonewall Jackson: Don't Be Angry
Roy Acuff: Cabin In Gloryland
9:00: Baltz. Bros./Schlitz
Wilburn Brothers (host): It's Another World
Osborne Brothers: Rocky Top
Jeanne Pruett: You Don't Need To Move A Mountain
Del Wood: There's A Big Wheel
Wilburn Brothers: I'm Gonna Tie One On Tonight
Osborne Brothers: Ruby
Jeanne Pruett: Satin Sheets
Del Wood: Down Yonder
9:30: Acme Boot Co./Beechnut
Jim Ed Brown (host): Pop A Top
Hank Locklin: Goodbye Dear Old Ryman
Grandpa Jones: Dooley
Bill Carlisle: No Help Wanted
Cates Sisters: Devils Dream
Hank Locklin: Send Me The Pillow You Dream On
Grandpa Jones: Heading South With Nashville On My Mind
Bill Carlisle: Too Old To Cut The Mustard
Jim Ed Brown: Sometimes Sunshine
10:00: Cee Bee Foods/Schlitz
Billy Walker (host): Sing Me Love Song To Baby
Charlie Louvin: You're My Wife, She's My Woman
Willis Brothers: Truck Stop
Stu Phillips: There Must Be Another Way To Say Goodbye
Billy Walker: You Gave Me A Mountain
Charlie Louvin: Little Reasons/Will You Visit Me On Sundays/What Are Those Things
Willis Brothers: Give Me 40 Acres
Billy Walker: Charlie's Shoes
10:30: Shoneys
George Morgan (host): Red Rose From The Blue Side Of Town
4 Guys: Let Me Be There
Ray Pillow: Excuse Me
Lonzo & Oscar: A King Size Cola & A Moon Pie
Ernie Ashworth: Talk Back Trembling Lips
4 Guys: Hello Walls/Big Bad John/Wings Of A Dove
Ray Pillow: Countryfried
Ernie Ashworth: Honky Tonk Hardwood Floor
George Morgan: Candy Kisses
The show ran about a half hour over, which wasn't bad considering how many songs were sung that final nite.
Of course, George Morgan's Candy Kisses was not the final song that was performed that night, as immediately after the Friday Night Opry, Grand Ole Gospel took place. This show was a 1 hour show that took place after the Friday Night Opry, and lasted just over 25 years. The show was not live on WSM, but was taped on played on Sunday mornings. The host of Grand Ole Gospel for its entire run was the Reverend Jimmy (or Jimmie as in some places) Snow, the son of Hank Snow. Grand Ole Gospel on this final nite at the Ryman featured guest artists Hank Snow, Johnny Cash, June Carter and the Carter Family. (all of whom did not appear on the Friday Night Opry that night). The final song that was performed that night was "Will The Circle Be Unbroken."
Immediately after that show ended, people left and the workers started tearing down pews, signs and a few other items to take to the new Opry House. Other than that, the Ryman Auditorium would remain basically empty and untouched, except for a special event or self-guided tours until 1998, when the Opry returned. I always find it odd visiting the Ryman after the Opry left and seeing the old signs, backdrops, dressing rooms and concession stands left untouched after that final night.
I am glad that the Ryman has been renovated and that the Opry returns each winter for a few months, but to me, there was nothing, and I mean nothing, like watching an Opry show from that old auditorium. It just had a special feeling to it that is gone forever.
Over the years, the Opry has produced a copy of the program that was sold at the Ryman on that final night, but as I list the running order of the show, and if you have a copy of that program to compare it to, you will notice a couple of differences. Not many, but a couple.
Here is the running order of that final show at the Ryman, on Friday March 15, 1974:
7:00: Cracker Barrel
Roy Drusky (host): Alone With You
Del Reeves: Lay A Little Lovin' On Me
Jan Howard: The One You Slip Around With
Charlie Walker: Pick Me Up On Your Way Down
Roy Drusky: Satisfied Mind
Del Reeves: Girl On The Billboard
Jan Howard: Rock Me Back To Little Rock
Charlie Walker: Wanting My Woman Again
Roy Drusky: Second Hand Rose
7:30: Varallo
Bill Anderson (host): If You Can Live With It
Bob Luman: Lonely Women Make Good Lovers
Jim & Jesse: Diesel On My Tail
Mary Lou Turner: Poor Sweet Baby
Bill Anderson: A World Of Make Believe
Bob Luman: When You Say Love
Jim & Jesse: Paradise
Bill Anderson: Po' Folks
8:00: Tennessee Pride/U.S. Borax
Archie Campbell (host): Make Friends
Bobby Bare: Ride Me Down Easy
Dottie West: Country Sunshine
Justin Tubb: Ramblin' Man
Phil Campbell: Valley Of The Never Do No Good
Bobby Bare & Bobby Bare Jr: Daddy, What If
Dottie West: Here Comes My Baby
Justin Tubb: Traveling Singing Man
8:30: Kroger
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Jean Shepard: Second Fiddle
Stonewall Jackson: Me & You & A Dog Named Boo
Minnie Pearl: Careless Love
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper: There's A Big Wheel
Roy Acuff: Back In The Country
Jean Shepard: At The Time
Stonewall Jackson: Don't Be Angry
Roy Acuff: Cabin In Gloryland
9:00: Baltz. Bros./Schlitz
Wilburn Brothers (host): It's Another World
Osborne Brothers: Rocky Top
Jeanne Pruett: You Don't Need To Move A Mountain
Del Wood: There's A Big Wheel
Wilburn Brothers: I'm Gonna Tie One On Tonight
Osborne Brothers: Ruby
Jeanne Pruett: Satin Sheets
Del Wood: Down Yonder
9:30: Acme Boot Co./Beechnut
Jim Ed Brown (host): Pop A Top
Hank Locklin: Goodbye Dear Old Ryman
Grandpa Jones: Dooley
Bill Carlisle: No Help Wanted
Cates Sisters: Devils Dream
Hank Locklin: Send Me The Pillow You Dream On
Grandpa Jones: Heading South With Nashville On My Mind
Bill Carlisle: Too Old To Cut The Mustard
Jim Ed Brown: Sometimes Sunshine
10:00: Cee Bee Foods/Schlitz
Billy Walker (host): Sing Me Love Song To Baby
Charlie Louvin: You're My Wife, She's My Woman
Willis Brothers: Truck Stop
Stu Phillips: There Must Be Another Way To Say Goodbye
Billy Walker: You Gave Me A Mountain
Charlie Louvin: Little Reasons/Will You Visit Me On Sundays/What Are Those Things
Willis Brothers: Give Me 40 Acres
Billy Walker: Charlie's Shoes
10:30: Shoneys
George Morgan (host): Red Rose From The Blue Side Of Town
4 Guys: Let Me Be There
Ray Pillow: Excuse Me
Lonzo & Oscar: A King Size Cola & A Moon Pie
Ernie Ashworth: Talk Back Trembling Lips
4 Guys: Hello Walls/Big Bad John/Wings Of A Dove
Ray Pillow: Countryfried
Ernie Ashworth: Honky Tonk Hardwood Floor
George Morgan: Candy Kisses
The show ran about a half hour over, which wasn't bad considering how many songs were sung that final nite.
Of course, George Morgan's Candy Kisses was not the final song that was performed that night, as immediately after the Friday Night Opry, Grand Ole Gospel took place. This show was a 1 hour show that took place after the Friday Night Opry, and lasted just over 25 years. The show was not live on WSM, but was taped on played on Sunday mornings. The host of Grand Ole Gospel for its entire run was the Reverend Jimmy (or Jimmie as in some places) Snow, the son of Hank Snow. Grand Ole Gospel on this final nite at the Ryman featured guest artists Hank Snow, Johnny Cash, June Carter and the Carter Family. (all of whom did not appear on the Friday Night Opry that night). The final song that was performed that night was "Will The Circle Be Unbroken."
Immediately after that show ended, people left and the workers started tearing down pews, signs and a few other items to take to the new Opry House. Other than that, the Ryman Auditorium would remain basically empty and untouched, except for a special event or self-guided tours until 1998, when the Opry returned. I always find it odd visiting the Ryman after the Opry left and seeing the old signs, backdrops, dressing rooms and concession stands left untouched after that final night.
I am glad that the Ryman has been renovated and that the Opry returns each winter for a few months, but to me, there was nothing, and I mean nothing, like watching an Opry show from that old auditorium. It just had a special feeling to it that is gone forever.
Sunday, March 11, 2012
Jan Howard
As we continue through the month of March, I want give birthday greetings to Jan Howard, who on March 13 will be celebrating her 82nd birthday, and on March 27 will be celebrating her 41st anniversary as an Opry member.
Jan was born Lula Grace Johnson on March 13, 1930 in West Plains, Missouri, the same home town as Porter Wagoner. She is best known for her hit duets with Bill Anderson and as the former wife of songwriter and Country Music Hall of Fame member, the late Harlan Howard.
Jan married for the 1st time at the age of 16, was the mother of 3 at age 21 and was divorced at 24. After moving to Los Angeles in 1953, she met singer Wynn Stewart, who introduced her to his friend Harlan Howard. By then, Jan was twice divorced and on May 10, 1957 she married Harlan in Las Vegas. Harlan Howard then recruited her to sing demos intended for female stars. On of these demos, "Mommy For A Day" co-written with Buck Owens, was targeted for Kitty Wells. When a record executive heard her demo, he signed her to Challenge Records. Her first release for the label was "Yankee Go Home" (1959), a duet with Wynn Stewart. It was also the first name she used the name Jan Howard professionally. Her first record to make the charts was "The One You Slip Around With" (#13, 1960), which earned her the Jukebox Operators of America's Most Promising Country Female honor.
In 1964 she signed with Decca Records, and the following year she began working with Bill Anderson on his syndicated television show and on the road. Between 1967 and 1971, Bill and Jan placed 4 duets in the country Top 5, including the #1 hit, "For Loving You" (1967). Earlier Jan had scored 2 solo hits with "Evil on Your Mind" (#5, 1966) and "Bad Seed" (#10, 1966).
After she divorced Harlan, she wrote a number of songs including "Love Is a Sometimes Thing", which she co-wrote with Bill Anderson. Ironically she cut a mother's tribute song, "My Son" (#15, 1968), weeks before son Jim died in Vietnam. Another son, Dave, committed suicide four years later. She joined the Grand Ole Opry in March 1971. For a period of time she was part of the Johnny Cash road show, after which she cut back her personal appearances except to perform on the Opry. In 1989, she wrote an autobiography, "Sunshine & Shadow", which is an excellent book.
The interesting fact about Jan's Orpy membership is that for years it was listed as March 27, however in the past several Opry Picture History Books, the date is listed as March 17. I am sure that is a typo error, as March 17 was not a Friday or Saturday in 1971. It should also be noted that some of the Opry management thought that Jan had been an Opry member since 1959, because she was on the show so many times as a guest artist. Jan tells the story:
"I was a guest for years. I started guesting there when Ott Devine was manager and then Bill Anderson and I started working together in 1965, and so I was part of the Bill Anderson show on the Opry. In the meantime, Bud Wendell became manager and I saw him at a party one Thursday night. He said, 'We'll, I'll see you at the Opry tomorrow night.' And I said, No, I'm not going to be there and he said, 'What do you mean, you're not going to be there?' And I said that I was not a regular member and I just happened to not be booked. And he said, 'We'll, you are going to be there! And the next night, it was a Friday in March, I was made a regular member."
In honor of Jan Howard's 82st birthday on Tuesday and her 41st year as on Opry member, here is the Opry line up from Saturday March 27, 1971, the night she became an Opry member.
1st show
6:30: Mrs Grissoms
Billy Walker (host): I Taught Her Everything She Knows
Ray Pillow: Grazin' In Greener Pastures
Del Wood: Are You From Dixie?
Billy Walker: How Sweet Thou Art
6:45: Rudys
Jack Greene (host): There's A Whole Lot About A Woman That A Man Don't Know
Jeannie Seely: Please Be My New Love
Jack Greene & Jeannie Seely: Wish I Didn't Have To Miss You
Jack Greene: There Goes My Everything
7:00: Luzianne
Bill Monroe (host): There Goes My Little Georgia Rose
Earl Scruggs Revue: Loraderjosp III Breakdown
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper: Each Season Changes You
Ernie Ashworth: Jesus Is A Soul Man
James Monroe: Come With Me Up Happiness Hill
Bill Carlisle: Too Old To Cut The Mustard
Earl Scruggs Revue: Foggy Mountain Top
Wilma Lee Cooper: The Legend Of The Dogwood Tree
7:30: Standard Candy
Bill Anderson (host): Wild Weekend
Grandpa Jones: Mountain Dew
JAN HOWARD: EVIL ON YOUR MIND
George Morgan: For The Good Times
Bill Anderson: Always Remember
Crook Brothers: Black Mountain Rag
Grandpa Jones: Fair & Tender Ladies
Bill Anderson & Jan Howard: Someday We'll Be Together
8:00: Martha White
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Loretta Lynn: I Wanna Be Free
Tex Ritter: The Men In My Little Girls Life
Willis Brothers: Women's Liberation
Lonzo & Oscar: Crowded Song
8:30: Stephens
Porter Wagoner (host): Carroll County Accident
Dolly Parton: Coming For To Carry Me Home
Stringbean: Hot Corn, Cold Corn
Tom T Hall: Ballad Of 40 Dollars
Porter Wagoner: The Last One To Touch Me
Hank Locklin: She's As Close As I Can Get
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Walking In My Sleep
Porter Wagoner & Dolly Parton: Better Move It On Home
2nd show
9:30: Kelloggs
Bill Anderson (host): You Can Change The World By Changing Your Mind
Willis Brothers: For The Good Times
JAN HOWARD: WERE YOU THERE
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper: Nobody's Darling But Mine
Ray Pillow: Working Man Blues
Bill Anderson: I Love You Drops
10:00: Fender
Bill Monroe (host): Little Joe
Earl Scuggs Revue: Bugle Call Rag
Bill Carlisle: I'm Movin'
Del Wood: Are You From Dixie?
10:15: Union 76
Billy Walker (host): When A Man Loves A Woman
Grandpa Jones: Dooley
Ernie Ashworth: Jesus Is A Soul Man
Billy Walker: Make The World Go Away
10:30: Trailblazer
Roy Acuff (host): I Wonder Where You Are Tonight
Jack Greene: There's A Whole Lot About A Woman A Man Don't Know
Jeannie Seely: Don't Touch Me
Roy Acuff: The Great Speckled Bird
10:45: Trailblazer
Porter Wagoner (host): Big Wind
Dolly Parton: Joshua
Stringbean: Lonesome Road Blues
Crook Brothers: Arkansas Traveler
Porter Wagoner & Dolly Parton: Better Move It On Home
11:00: Coca-Cola
Tex Ritter (host): Have I Told You Lately That I Love You
Loretta Lynn: Coal Miners Daughter
Hank Locklin: Country Hall Of Fame
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Instrumental
Tex Ritter: High Noon
Loretta Lynn: I Wanna Be Free
Sam McGee: San Antonio Rose
11:30: Elm Hill
Marty Robbins (host): Devil Woman
Lonzo & Oscar: There's A Hole In The Bottom Of The Sea
Marty Robbins, Jr: Put You Hand In The Hand/Today I Started Loving You Again
Marty Robbins: I Walk Alone/Don't Worry/A Heart Full Of Love/Lone Gone Lonesome Blues/It Finally Happened
George Morgan and Tom T Hall were scheduled for both shows, but only appeared on the 1st show. Not a bad line up on either show.
Jan is not the biggest star in the Opry's history but she has always supported the show. I have met her several times and I have always found he to be a nice and polite person. I still remember the night at the Ernest Tubb Record Shop about 15 years ago when she spent a good deal of time talking to my 15 year old daughter. And my daughter did not even know who she was!! That tells me all I need to know what kind of person Jan is.
Congratulations to Jan Howard and may you continue to enjoy good health and many more Opry appearances!!!
Friday, March 9, 2012
March 9, 1974-Final Saturday Night at the Ryman
Continuing with the March theme, Saturday March 9, 1974 was the final Grand Ole Opry show at the Ryman Auditorium before moving to the new Grand Ole Opry House. Of course the final Opry show was the Friday Night Opry that took place on March 15, with Saturday March 16 the 1st show at the new Opry House.
Not to discredit the Friday Night Opry, but for most of its history, the Saturday Grand Ole Opry was always considered the "big" show and with it being the final Saturday show there was a lot of emotion involved. While most of the Opry's members were happy and glad to be getting out of the old building and into a modern facility, there was still memories that they were leaving behind. A lot of history took place at the Ryman and a lot of performers crossed that stage.
I found an old magazine article that was written right after that night, and here is how it described it, as written by Patrick Carr:
Saturday March 9th was a big deal. Stars like Tanya Tucker and Jody Miller flew in specially for the ocassion, even though they weren't scheduled to appear. Celebrities like Peter Bogdanovich and Barbi Benton showed up to mill around backstage and watch the Opry stars walk out onto that crowded, funky old stage and sing for the fans squirming on Captain Ryman's hard oak pews, fanning themselves with those little cardboard fans in an attempt to keep cool.
There was a conflict of emotions that night. As fans and stars have been saying ever since Roy Acuff turned the first sod of turf at the Opryland site, the Ryman Auditorium was where Hank Williams sang. It was the the scene of country music's growth from backwoods obscurity to the status of a major national industry. The Ryman was where it all happened. It wasn't the Opry's first home, but it was the most important.
Watching Minnie Pearl on Saturday night, you could see the conflict of bright new hopes and leaving sadness. On the Ryman stage, she was telling the folks about the new Opry House. "You wouldn't believe it. Why, they've even got places to sit down! And mirrors, with lights around them!" A few minutes later she was talking about her first Opry appearance when Judge Hay told her, "Don't you worry honey. Just go out there and love 'em, and they'll love ya right back." She looked down into the audience and said, "And I do love ya." The audience responded with a standing ovation, and as Minnie tried to leave the stage, you could see that she was crying. Roy Acuff called her back, trying to comfort her, "This is a very special night for Minnie. This is the last show here and there are some pretty wonderful memories." And as the audience cheered her again, she managed to compose herself a little. "I'm all right" she whispered.
To remember that final Saturday night, here is the Opry line up from that night. As you will see, Jody Miller and Tanya Tucker both made it out on stage, with Jody performing on both shows and Tanya on the 2nd. The other thing you will notice is the number of Opry stars missing on that final Saturday night. Many of the Opry's biggest names were not there.
1st show
6:30: Mrs Grissoms
Willis Brothers (host): Give Me 40 Acres
Stu Phillips: There Must Be A Better Way To Say Goodbye
Willis Brothers: Cool Water
6:45: Rudys
Bobby Bare (host): Detroit City
Connie Smith: How Great Thou Art
Ernie Ashworth: Honky Tonk Hardwood Floor
Bobby Bare: The Mermaids
7:00: Rudys
Billy Grammer (host): Under The Double Eagle/Black Mountain Rag/Wildwood Flower
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper: Nine Pound Hammer
Bill Carlisle: Too Old To Cut The Mustard
Billy Grammer, Jr: Orange Blossom Special
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper: To My Mansion In The Sky
Bill Carlisle: I'm Moving
7:30: Standard Candy
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Jeanne Pruett: You Don't Need To Move A Mountain
Lonzo & Oscar: Charming Betsy
Crook Brothers/Stoney Mountain Cloggers: Ida Red
Roy Acuff: Back In The Country
Jeanne Pruett: Satin Sheets
8:00: Martha White
Wilburn Brothers (host): Roll, Muddy River
Justin Tubb: Rambling Man
Jody Miller: Good News
Jerry Clower: Comedy
Wilburn Brothers: Knoxville Girl
Justin Tubb: Texas Dance Hall Girl
Jody Miller: Let's All Go Down To The River
8:30: Stephens
Hank Snow (host): I'm Moving On
Jan Howard: My Kind Of People
4 Guys: Let Me Be There
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Katy Hill
Hank Snow: Brand On My Heart
Jan Howard: Sunshine On My Shoulder
4 Guys: Top Of The World
Hank Snow: Hello Love
2nd show
9:30: Kelloggs
Bobby Bare: Come Sundown
Willis Brothers: Truck Stop
Wilma Lee Cooper: Philadelphia Lawyer
Bobby Bare: Blowing In The Wind/Worried Man Blues/Gotta Travel On
Willis Brothers: Maiden's Prayer
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper: I Shall Not Be Moved
Bobby Bare: Daddy, What if?
10:00: Fender
Stu Phillips (host): Pride
Jody Miller: Darling, You Can Always Come Back Home
Bill Carlisle: Little Liza Jane
Stu Phillips: There Must Be Another Way To Say Goodbye
10:15: Union 76
Roy Acuff (host): When I Lay My Burdens Down
Minnie Pearl: Jealous Hearted Me
10:30: Trailblazer
Wilburn Brothers (host): It Looks Like The Sun's Gonna Shine
Lonzo & Oscar: Traces Of Life
Wilburn Brothers: God Bless America Again
10:45: Beechnut
Billy Grammer (host): Gotta Travel On
Jerry Clower: The Coon Hunt
Crook Brothers: Liberty
Billy Grammer: How Great Thou Art
11:00: Coca-Cola
Hank Snow (host): In The Misty Moonlight
Jan Howard: Where No One Stands Alone
4 Guys: Streaking With My Baby On A Bright & Sunny Sunday Afternoon
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Nubbing Ridge
Tanya Tucker: Delta Dawn
Sam McGee: Freight Train/Victor Rag/I Don't Love Nobody
Hank Snow: I Don't Hurt Anymore
11:30: Elm Hill
Marty Robbins (host): I Walk Alone
Jeanne Pruett: You Don't Need To Move A Mountain/Satin Sheets
Justin Tubb: Bad, Bad Leroy Brown
Marty Robbins: Don't Worry/Big Boss Man/I'm Wanting To/Rollin' In My Sweet Baby's Arms/Love Me/Now Is The Hour
Jeanne Pruett said later that her most moving moment at the Grand Ole Opry was that last night at the Ryman. "Marty Robbins and I did the last show. I can remember when that curtain came down, well, we were going from what we knew and loved and held dear, to the unknown. And I just wondered to myself if it was the end of the Opry, or was it the beginning?"
While the small, intimate feeling of the old Ryman Auditorium was lost with the move to the new Opry House, I think almost everyone agrees that it was a good move that allowed the Opry to draw new fans and to continue its growth.
Not to discredit the Friday Night Opry, but for most of its history, the Saturday Grand Ole Opry was always considered the "big" show and with it being the final Saturday show there was a lot of emotion involved. While most of the Opry's members were happy and glad to be getting out of the old building and into a modern facility, there was still memories that they were leaving behind. A lot of history took place at the Ryman and a lot of performers crossed that stage.
I found an old magazine article that was written right after that night, and here is how it described it, as written by Patrick Carr:
Saturday March 9th was a big deal. Stars like Tanya Tucker and Jody Miller flew in specially for the ocassion, even though they weren't scheduled to appear. Celebrities like Peter Bogdanovich and Barbi Benton showed up to mill around backstage and watch the Opry stars walk out onto that crowded, funky old stage and sing for the fans squirming on Captain Ryman's hard oak pews, fanning themselves with those little cardboard fans in an attempt to keep cool.
There was a conflict of emotions that night. As fans and stars have been saying ever since Roy Acuff turned the first sod of turf at the Opryland site, the Ryman Auditorium was where Hank Williams sang. It was the the scene of country music's growth from backwoods obscurity to the status of a major national industry. The Ryman was where it all happened. It wasn't the Opry's first home, but it was the most important.
Watching Minnie Pearl on Saturday night, you could see the conflict of bright new hopes and leaving sadness. On the Ryman stage, she was telling the folks about the new Opry House. "You wouldn't believe it. Why, they've even got places to sit down! And mirrors, with lights around them!" A few minutes later she was talking about her first Opry appearance when Judge Hay told her, "Don't you worry honey. Just go out there and love 'em, and they'll love ya right back." She looked down into the audience and said, "And I do love ya." The audience responded with a standing ovation, and as Minnie tried to leave the stage, you could see that she was crying. Roy Acuff called her back, trying to comfort her, "This is a very special night for Minnie. This is the last show here and there are some pretty wonderful memories." And as the audience cheered her again, she managed to compose herself a little. "I'm all right" she whispered.
To remember that final Saturday night, here is the Opry line up from that night. As you will see, Jody Miller and Tanya Tucker both made it out on stage, with Jody performing on both shows and Tanya on the 2nd. The other thing you will notice is the number of Opry stars missing on that final Saturday night. Many of the Opry's biggest names were not there.
1st show
6:30: Mrs Grissoms
Willis Brothers (host): Give Me 40 Acres
Stu Phillips: There Must Be A Better Way To Say Goodbye
Willis Brothers: Cool Water
6:45: Rudys
Bobby Bare (host): Detroit City
Connie Smith: How Great Thou Art
Ernie Ashworth: Honky Tonk Hardwood Floor
Bobby Bare: The Mermaids
7:00: Rudys
Billy Grammer (host): Under The Double Eagle/Black Mountain Rag/Wildwood Flower
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper: Nine Pound Hammer
Bill Carlisle: Too Old To Cut The Mustard
Billy Grammer, Jr: Orange Blossom Special
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper: To My Mansion In The Sky
Bill Carlisle: I'm Moving
7:30: Standard Candy
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Jeanne Pruett: You Don't Need To Move A Mountain
Lonzo & Oscar: Charming Betsy
Crook Brothers/Stoney Mountain Cloggers: Ida Red
Roy Acuff: Back In The Country
Jeanne Pruett: Satin Sheets
8:00: Martha White
Wilburn Brothers (host): Roll, Muddy River
Justin Tubb: Rambling Man
Jody Miller: Good News
Jerry Clower: Comedy
Wilburn Brothers: Knoxville Girl
Justin Tubb: Texas Dance Hall Girl
Jody Miller: Let's All Go Down To The River
8:30: Stephens
Hank Snow (host): I'm Moving On
Jan Howard: My Kind Of People
4 Guys: Let Me Be There
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Katy Hill
Hank Snow: Brand On My Heart
Jan Howard: Sunshine On My Shoulder
4 Guys: Top Of The World
Hank Snow: Hello Love
2nd show
9:30: Kelloggs
Bobby Bare: Come Sundown
Willis Brothers: Truck Stop
Wilma Lee Cooper: Philadelphia Lawyer
Bobby Bare: Blowing In The Wind/Worried Man Blues/Gotta Travel On
Willis Brothers: Maiden's Prayer
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper: I Shall Not Be Moved
Bobby Bare: Daddy, What if?
10:00: Fender
Stu Phillips (host): Pride
Jody Miller: Darling, You Can Always Come Back Home
Bill Carlisle: Little Liza Jane
Stu Phillips: There Must Be Another Way To Say Goodbye
10:15: Union 76
Roy Acuff (host): When I Lay My Burdens Down
Minnie Pearl: Jealous Hearted Me
10:30: Trailblazer
Wilburn Brothers (host): It Looks Like The Sun's Gonna Shine
Lonzo & Oscar: Traces Of Life
Wilburn Brothers: God Bless America Again
10:45: Beechnut
Billy Grammer (host): Gotta Travel On
Jerry Clower: The Coon Hunt
Crook Brothers: Liberty
Billy Grammer: How Great Thou Art
11:00: Coca-Cola
Hank Snow (host): In The Misty Moonlight
Jan Howard: Where No One Stands Alone
4 Guys: Streaking With My Baby On A Bright & Sunny Sunday Afternoon
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Nubbing Ridge
Tanya Tucker: Delta Dawn
Sam McGee: Freight Train/Victor Rag/I Don't Love Nobody
Hank Snow: I Don't Hurt Anymore
11:30: Elm Hill
Marty Robbins (host): I Walk Alone
Jeanne Pruett: You Don't Need To Move A Mountain/Satin Sheets
Justin Tubb: Bad, Bad Leroy Brown
Marty Robbins: Don't Worry/Big Boss Man/I'm Wanting To/Rollin' In My Sweet Baby's Arms/Love Me/Now Is The Hour
Jeanne Pruett said later that her most moving moment at the Grand Ole Opry was that last night at the Ryman. "Marty Robbins and I did the last show. I can remember when that curtain came down, well, we were going from what we knew and loved and held dear, to the unknown. And I just wondered to myself if it was the end of the Opry, or was it the beginning?"
While the small, intimate feeling of the old Ryman Auditorium was lost with the move to the new Opry House, I think almost everyone agrees that it was a good move that allowed the Opry to draw new fans and to continue its growth.
Thursday, March 8, 2012
March 10, 1979-The Night James Brown Played The Opry
I mentioned before that March was one of the more active months in the history of the Grand Ole Opry, and one of the more unusual events took place on March 10, 1979 when James Brown, at the invitation of Porter Wagoner, performed on the Grand Ole Opry.
Porter had met James several times over the years. It was during one of those visits that Porter told James, "You ought to come to the Grand Ole Opry." The response was, "I'd love to. You just invite me and I'll come." Porter was quoted as saying, "The Grand Ole Opry is made up of entertainment, not necessarily marvelous singers but entertainers. That's what the show is built on, and it has some comedy, it has some singing." Porter then went to Bud Wendell and Hal Durham and told them, "I think we could get worldwide attention, and once in a while that's helpful. Even if it's Coca-Cola, or even if its the Grand Ole Opry. It's like Old Man River, you can keep rolling along but it's nice to have a shot in the arm once in a while to make something exciting happen." Bud Wendell gave the ok and the date was set for Saturday March 10, 1979.
On March 6 the Memphis Press-Scimitar ran the headline across the top of the front page, "Invitation to Soul Singer James Brown Brings Disharmony to Grand Ole Opry." The story that followed featured a picture of Porter Wagoner. This story was based on a story that appeared in the Nashville Banner on March 5, written by Bill Hance. The following is from that article:
"I could throw up," said piano player Del Wood in the most eloquent of the Opry outbursts. "It's not an antiblack issue, don't get us wrong, it's not racial. She went on to praise DeFord Bailey, O.B. McClinton and Charley Pride. Since her own piano style was strongly ragtime (Del was the only female country act to have a Top 10 instrumental hit), she was no doubt sincere. "The next thing you know, they'll be doing the strip out there."
Jean Shepard was Jean Shepard: "The Grand Ole Opry is supposed to be a mainstay in country music-and it's fighting for its life. What's he going to sing, 'Papa's Got a Brand New Bag'? She condemned the Opry management and said Opry fans weren't going to enjoy tuning in and getting James Brown. "And you can't tell me rock n' rollers are going to wait six hours to hear James Brown. It's a slap in the face to those people who drive thousands of miles to see the Opry and have to be subjected to James Brown. If Mr. Brown's on the first show, I'll appear on the second. If he's on both, I won't appear at all."
Justin Tubb said, "I don't understand it. None of us do. If it was Ray Charles, I'd be waiting to hug him when he came off the stage," recalling Ray's albums of country songs. Ben Smathers of the Smoky Mountain Cloggers square dance act said George D. Hay would be turning over in his grave. Of Opry stars, only Skeeter Davis spoke publicly in Porter's defense.
Opry management went into damage control, with Jerry Strobel pointing out that many other unexpected visitors had been on the Opry stage. He named Perry Como, President Nixon, Senator Robert Byrd, Paul McCartney, Carol Channing, Ann-Margaret and President Carter's daughter Amy. He did not mention opera star Helen Traubel, who was booed off the stage when Jimmy Dickens introduced her back in the 50s.
At the Opry on the night of James performance, some of those opposed organized a boycott. Opry officials were worried that the backstage area was going to be very empty so Bud Wendell began offering backstage passes to anyone who wanted to see James Brown. It worked as it was reported that over 300 people showed up backstage that night.
When James performed on the Opry that night, he used Porter's band and the Opry would not allow him to use his horn section. He performed a number of standard country songs including "Your Cheatin' Heart" "Georgia" and "Tennessee Waltz." He then kicked into "Papa's Got a Brand New Bag" and took off from there. He did the splits and the microphone tosses that he was famous for. The reponse was what you would have expected.
Roy Acuff was quoted as saying "I wish I could go out there and speak my mind, but I won't." Dolores Smiley said, "I drove to the Opry and heard James Brown over the car radio, and when I got there it was abuzz in the backstage area. I purposely arrived late. It sounded terrible on the radio. When I got backstage, everyone was outraged and upset. I thought it was funny."
It was reported that he broke all Opry records and performed for over 30 minutes. Porter would later say that he recorded it and it was actually 17 minutes. It just seemed longer. He did do an encore, but it was reported that he received what most Opry acts get and that was polite applause.
The following is the Opry line up and running order of the show from Saturday March 10, 1979, the night James Brown came to town:
1st show
6:30 Mrs Grissoms
Stonewall Jackson (host): Come On Home
Margo Smith: (?)
Stonewall Jackson: Me & You And A Dog Named Boo/Waterloo
6:45: Rudy's
Billy Walker (host): Cross The Brazos At Waco
Jerry Clower: Dogs Ate Boiled Okra/Fishing With Dynamite
Ernie Ashworth: Wichita Woman
Billy Walker: Lawyers
7:00: Shoney's
Porter Wagoner (host): Ole Slewfoot
Skeeter Davis: Georgia/I'll Fly Away
JAMES BROWN:You're Cheatin Heart/ Georgia/Tennessee Waltz/Papa's Got A Brand New Bag-Melody
Porter Wagoner: I'm Gonna Feed You Now
7:30: Standard Candy
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball/Tennessee Central #9/Sunshine Special
Connie Smith: Once A Day/Back Up On The Mountain
Billy Grammer: Instrumental
Crook Brothers/Ralph Sloan Dancers: Gray Eagle
Roy Acuff: Jesus Will Outshine Them All
8:00: Martha White
Wilburn Brothers (host): What A Way To Go
Justin Tubb: (?)/What's Wrong With The Way That We're Doing It Now
Stu Phillips: Thank God She's Mine
Willis Brothers: Cimarron
Charlie Louvin: See The Big Man Cry
8:30: Stephens
Hank Snow (host): Merry Go Round Of Love
Jeanne Pruett: I Can't Help It/Many Tears Ago/Wild Side Of Life
Ray Pillow: Hungry Man's Dream
Bill Carlisle: Stopped By On My Way To The Show
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Cocklin Hen
Hank Snow: I Wish My Heart Could Talk To You
2nd show
9:30: Kelloggs
Billy Walker (host): Word Games
Skeeter Davis: Silver Thread & Golden Needles/The End Of The World
Billy Grammer: Allegheny Moon/Tennessee Waltz
Ernie Ashworth: Talk Back Trembling Lips
Billy Walker: Lawyers
10:00: Fender
Jerry Clower (host): Comedy
Margo Smith: Don't Break The Heart That Loves You/It Only Hurts For A Little While
10:15: Union 76
Roy Acuff (host): Once More
Stonewall Jackson: Come On Home
Harold Weakley: Today I Started Loving You Again
Roy Acuff: I'll Fly Away
10:30: Trailblazer
Charlie Louvin (host): I Don't Love You Anymore
Connie Smith: When God Dips his Love In My Heart
Willis Brothers: Bob
Charlie Louvin: All The Lies Are True
10:45: Beechnut
Ray Pillow (host): Hungry Man's Dream
Justin Tubb: You Nearly Lose Your Mind
Crook Brothers: Mississippi Sawyer
Tom T Hall: The Year That Clayton Delaney Died/I Love
11:00: Coca-Cola
Hank Snow (host): Hello, Love
Wilburn Brothers: Country Honey
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Hollow Poplar
Stu Phillips: Crystal Chandeliers
Kirk McGee: The World's Waiting For The Sunrise
Hank Snow: Mysterious Lady From St. Martinique
11:30: Acme
Marty Robbins (host): Don't Worry
Jeanne Pruett: Satin Sheets/San Antonio Rose
Bill Carlisle: Same Ol' Tale That The Crow Told Me/Rusty Old Halo
Marty Robbins: El Paso City/Tonight Carmen/Love Me/Muddy Water/Among My Souvenirs/To Get To You/You Gave Me A Mountain/The Performer/El Paso
Marty was on stage for over 45 minutes.
Porter and James did only the 1st show. Then they went to the Opryland Hotel for a party. As promised, Jean Shepard did not appear and as expected, Del Wood also did not perform. What was surprising was that Billy Grammer did. On an interesting note, Stevie Wonder performed on the Opry in September of that year, but there were no complaints about Stevie.
It is interesting that today, as many of us complain about the number of non-country performers playing on the Opry, this same issue has been going on since the day the Opry started. Even in the 1930s, George D Hay and Harry Stone were having a battle over "modern" acts becoming members and playing the show. There was the issue of drums and electric guitars with Ernest Tubb and Pee Wee King. It seems like the story keeps repeating itself and as the Opry marches on, the discussion and battle over what type of music should be played on the Opry continues.
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
Grand Ole Opry 3/9 & 3/10
The Grand Ole Opry has posted the line up for the shows this weekend. There is 1 show on Friday night and 2 shows on Saturday night, as the Opry expands their schedule for the spring months.
There are some big name artists playing the Opry this weekend. Keith Urban returns for the Friday Night Opry along with Opry members Alison Krauss (who will be appearing both nights) and Mel Tillis. Also appearing will be newly named Hall of Fame member Connie Smith, who will be appearing during Bill Anderson's segment. I am sure Bill will make some nice comments regarding Connie's election.
In addition to Alison Krauss, Saturday's Grand Ole Opry will feature the return of Brad Paisley to the Opry stage. Also appearing on Saturday night will be Opry member Charlie Daniels, along with the great Stonewall Jackson, making a rare Opry appearance. Stonewall will also be hosting the Ernest Tubb Midnight Jamboree this weekend.
It is interesting to note that on Friday night, there are only 11 artists scheduled, as Keith Urban will be the only guest during the final segment. Of those 11, 9 are Opry members. On Saturday night there are only 10 artists scheduled for the 1st show, as it looks like Alison Krauss and Brad Paisley will each be allowed some extra time. Of those 10, 8 are Opry members. The 2nd show on Saturday will have 11 artist, of whom 9 are Opry members.
Friday March 9
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Brett Eldredge
7:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jimmy C Newman; Mel Tillis
INTERMISSION
8:15: Bill Anderson (host); Connie Smith; Alison Krauss
8:45: Mike Snider (host); Keith Urban
Saturday March 10
1st show
7:00: Jimmy Dickens (host); The Whites; Luke Bryan
7:30: Mike Snider (host); Canaan Smith; Charlie Daniels Band
8:00: Jim Ed Brown (host); Alison Krauss; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Bill Anderson (host); Brad Paisley
2nd show
9:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Brad Paisley
10:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Stonewall Jackson; Alison Krauss
10:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); George Hamilton IV; Luke Bryan; Opry Square Dancers
11:00; Bill Anderson (host); Canaan Smith; Charlie Daniels Band
There are some big name artists playing the Opry this weekend. Keith Urban returns for the Friday Night Opry along with Opry members Alison Krauss (who will be appearing both nights) and Mel Tillis. Also appearing will be newly named Hall of Fame member Connie Smith, who will be appearing during Bill Anderson's segment. I am sure Bill will make some nice comments regarding Connie's election.
In addition to Alison Krauss, Saturday's Grand Ole Opry will feature the return of Brad Paisley to the Opry stage. Also appearing on Saturday night will be Opry member Charlie Daniels, along with the great Stonewall Jackson, making a rare Opry appearance. Stonewall will also be hosting the Ernest Tubb Midnight Jamboree this weekend.
It is interesting to note that on Friday night, there are only 11 artists scheduled, as Keith Urban will be the only guest during the final segment. Of those 11, 9 are Opry members. On Saturday night there are only 10 artists scheduled for the 1st show, as it looks like Alison Krauss and Brad Paisley will each be allowed some extra time. Of those 10, 8 are Opry members. The 2nd show on Saturday will have 11 artist, of whom 9 are Opry members.
Friday March 9
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Brett Eldredge
7:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jimmy C Newman; Mel Tillis
INTERMISSION
8:15: Bill Anderson (host); Connie Smith; Alison Krauss
8:45: Mike Snider (host); Keith Urban
Saturday March 10
1st show
7:00: Jimmy Dickens (host); The Whites; Luke Bryan
7:30: Mike Snider (host); Canaan Smith; Charlie Daniels Band
8:00: Jim Ed Brown (host); Alison Krauss; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Bill Anderson (host); Brad Paisley
2nd show
9:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Brad Paisley
10:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Stonewall Jackson; Alison Krauss
10:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); George Hamilton IV; Luke Bryan; Opry Square Dancers
11:00; Bill Anderson (host); Canaan Smith; Charlie Daniels Band
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
Garth Brooks, Connie Smith and Hargus "Pig" Robbins Elected to Hall of Fame
Well, it has already started. The headline from the Associated Press wire story this afternoon was , "Garth Brooks, 2 Others Named CMHOF Inductees."
With that said, many of us watched and listened this morning as Garth Brooks, Connie Smith and Hargus "Pig" Robbins were elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame for 2012. All three were there this morning for the announcement and all were thrilled by the honor.
For what it is worth, I will first say that I really hate it when I see a headline like I quoted above. Yes you can say that Garth is the headliner of the class, but all 3 were equally elected and it makes it sound like Garth is more important than Connie and Pig, and that they are after thoughts. Shame on the person who wrote that headline.
We knew Garth was going to get in sooner than later, but I wished it had been later. There were so many more deserving nominees that have waited years for the honor that should have been elected before Garth. While I mentioned on my previous post that I thought Garth would be the one elected, I still thought Ronnie Milsap and a couple of the others deserved the honor more than Garth.
I don't think anybody can complain about Connie Smith getting elected. She is one of the great female singers in history and still receives a warm reception at the Opry. She is still active with her recordings and touring. While I know that she did not win many awards when she was younger, she set the standard for many of today's female stars.
The problem for me is that the veterans category is so backed up with worth candidates. I can name The Browns, Bobby Bare, Jerry, Reed, Dottie West, Wilburn Brothers, Archie Campbell, Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper just to even start. And the backlog gets bigger each year as more of the veteran artists fall into this category. Here is something to think about. Connie Smith was elected from the veterans list and she is 70 years old. Ronnie Milsap was a finalist in the modern era and he is 69 years old. The difference is that Connie started her career as a recording artist way earlier than Ronnie. It is safe to say that once Ronnie falls into the veterans category, he will be elected fairly soon.
I have no issue at all with Pig Robbins being elected. You hear his piano on just about every recording out of Nashville. While many of us thought of Don Rich or Brother Oswald to name 2, I don't think any of us have an issue with Pig being elected.
Congratulations to Garth, Connie and Pig on this great honor, the highest in country music.
With that said, many of us watched and listened this morning as Garth Brooks, Connie Smith and Hargus "Pig" Robbins were elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame for 2012. All three were there this morning for the announcement and all were thrilled by the honor.
For what it is worth, I will first say that I really hate it when I see a headline like I quoted above. Yes you can say that Garth is the headliner of the class, but all 3 were equally elected and it makes it sound like Garth is more important than Connie and Pig, and that they are after thoughts. Shame on the person who wrote that headline.
We knew Garth was going to get in sooner than later, but I wished it had been later. There were so many more deserving nominees that have waited years for the honor that should have been elected before Garth. While I mentioned on my previous post that I thought Garth would be the one elected, I still thought Ronnie Milsap and a couple of the others deserved the honor more than Garth.
I don't think anybody can complain about Connie Smith getting elected. She is one of the great female singers in history and still receives a warm reception at the Opry. She is still active with her recordings and touring. While I know that she did not win many awards when she was younger, she set the standard for many of today's female stars.
The problem for me is that the veterans category is so backed up with worth candidates. I can name The Browns, Bobby Bare, Jerry, Reed, Dottie West, Wilburn Brothers, Archie Campbell, Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper just to even start. And the backlog gets bigger each year as more of the veteran artists fall into this category. Here is something to think about. Connie Smith was elected from the veterans list and she is 70 years old. Ronnie Milsap was a finalist in the modern era and he is 69 years old. The difference is that Connie started her career as a recording artist way earlier than Ronnie. It is safe to say that once Ronnie falls into the veterans category, he will be elected fairly soon.
I have no issue at all with Pig Robbins being elected. You hear his piano on just about every recording out of Nashville. While many of us thought of Don Rich or Brother Oswald to name 2, I don't think any of us have an issue with Pig being elected.
Congratulations to Garth, Connie and Pig on this great honor, the highest in country music.
Monday, March 5, 2012
2012 Hall of Fame Announcement-Tuesday 9:30am
As many of you have already noted, the 2012 Country Music Hall of Fame inductees will be officially announced Tuesday morning at 9:30am, central time. (that is 10:30am in the east). The announcement is being webcast on the CMA website, so like many others, I will be watching it live.
There are 5 finalists in each category. The finalist list is supposed to be kept private, only known to the voters. I had one voter tell me a few years back that if the list of finalists did get out and the CMA found out who released it, that person would lose their voting right. My thought is that they do not want to make the other finalists who did not get in feel bad. Especially if they are listed year after year. One of the reasons that the CMA stopped doing the Hall of Fame announcement as part of the annual awards show in the fall was that those not elected were complaining about having to dress up and sit on camera and smile at not getting in. I know Minnie Pearl, Kitty Wells and Hank Snow all complained about that.
With that said, for the 2nd time I have seen a list of 5 finalists that has been floating around the internet. I do not know if this is the official list of 5 or not, but I would not be surprised if most of these were correct. Anyways, here we go:
Modern Era: Garth Brooks, Ronnie Milsap, Oak Ridge Boys, Kenny Rogers and Ricky Skaggs.
Veteran Era: Archie Campbell, June Carter Cash, Connie Smith, Jerry Reed and Hank Williams, Jr.
Touring Musician: The assumption is that Don Rich will be elected. I do not see any of the 4 other names being floated around.
If these are the 5 finalists, here is how I handicap the vote:
Modern Era:
Who Should Be Elected: Ronnie Milsap
Who Probably Will Be Elected: Garth Brooks
Veterans Era:
Who Should Be Elected: Archie Campbell
Who Probably Will Be Elected: Connie Smith
I know it probably means nothing, but Connie Smith was scheduled to do the Opry on this past weekend but cancelled out and Ronnie Milsap was scheduled to host the Midnight Jamboree, but he also cancelled. Also at the Opry on Saturday night, Jim Ed Brown was reportedly asking if anyone had hear anything regarding the Hall of Fame, so I would say, and I am sorry to say, that The Browns, who should get in, probably won't.
Knowing how these things go, I am probably wrong on all counts, but it is fun to speculate. Good luck to all the nominees. We all have our favorites and they are all deserving!!
There are 5 finalists in each category. The finalist list is supposed to be kept private, only known to the voters. I had one voter tell me a few years back that if the list of finalists did get out and the CMA found out who released it, that person would lose their voting right. My thought is that they do not want to make the other finalists who did not get in feel bad. Especially if they are listed year after year. One of the reasons that the CMA stopped doing the Hall of Fame announcement as part of the annual awards show in the fall was that those not elected were complaining about having to dress up and sit on camera and smile at not getting in. I know Minnie Pearl, Kitty Wells and Hank Snow all complained about that.
With that said, for the 2nd time I have seen a list of 5 finalists that has been floating around the internet. I do not know if this is the official list of 5 or not, but I would not be surprised if most of these were correct. Anyways, here we go:
Modern Era: Garth Brooks, Ronnie Milsap, Oak Ridge Boys, Kenny Rogers and Ricky Skaggs.
Veteran Era: Archie Campbell, June Carter Cash, Connie Smith, Jerry Reed and Hank Williams, Jr.
Touring Musician: The assumption is that Don Rich will be elected. I do not see any of the 4 other names being floated around.
If these are the 5 finalists, here is how I handicap the vote:
Modern Era:
Who Should Be Elected: Ronnie Milsap
Who Probably Will Be Elected: Garth Brooks
Veterans Era:
Who Should Be Elected: Archie Campbell
Who Probably Will Be Elected: Connie Smith
I know it probably means nothing, but Connie Smith was scheduled to do the Opry on this past weekend but cancelled out and Ronnie Milsap was scheduled to host the Midnight Jamboree, but he also cancelled. Also at the Opry on Saturday night, Jim Ed Brown was reportedly asking if anyone had hear anything regarding the Hall of Fame, so I would say, and I am sorry to say, that The Browns, who should get in, probably won't.
Knowing how these things go, I am probably wrong on all counts, but it is fun to speculate. Good luck to all the nominees. We all have our favorites and they are all deserving!!
Saturday, March 3, 2012
First Televised Opry Show on PBS-March 4, 1978
In the history of the Grand Ole Opry, there are 3 months that seemed to have had more happen than most. Those are March, June and October. Since there are many new readers to the blog, and many of my older members who like to see these, I am going to spend time during the March posting some of the Opry's important shows that took place during the month. March had a lot that has happened including the last shows at the Ryman Auditorium, the first shows at the new Grand Ole Opry House, the final Opry shows for Hawkshaw Hawkins, Cowboy Copas and Marion Worth, and several new Opry members, including Jan Howard.
Besides Jan Howard, who joined the Opry on March 27, 1971 (41 years), the other members of the Opry who joined this month were Jesse McReynolds, March 2, 1964 (48 years ago when he joined with him brother Jim), The Whites, who joined 28 years ago on March 2, 1984 and Trisha Yearwood, who joined 13 years ago on March 13, 1999.
Also taking place in March for 4 years, were the annual televised shows by PBS. The 1st show to be televised was on March 4, 1978, with the other shows being March 3, 1979, March 1, 1980 and March 14, 1981. The PBS telecasts came about when executives of the Public Broadcasting System approached the executives at the Grand Ole Opry with a proposal. They wanted to do something that had never been done before and that to put an entire evening of the Grand Ole Opry on television. PBS, faced with ever-increasing cuts in funding from the federal government needed to expand the base of its subscribers. It needed to reach people for contributions it had never been able to reach before and that was grass-roots America. So on Saturday March 4, 1978, the Opry was fully televised, carried coast to coast, just as it happened, on the PBS network. The only real concession to televison came when PBS covered the radio commericals with backstage interviews and features. (I can still remember the feature on the Opry post office).
To remember that night, here is the line up and the running order of the show:
1st show:
6:00: Vietti
Del Reeves (host): Two Dollars In The Jukebox/A Dime At A Time
Stonewall Jackson: Don't Be Angry
George Hamilton IV: Cornbread, Beans & Sweet Potato Pie
Lonzo & Oscar: When The Fields In The Valley Turn Green
Billy Grammer: Birth Of The Blues
Willis Brothers: Boots & Saddle
Del Reeves: Folsom Prison Blues/Margaritaville
6:30: Mrs Grissoms
Jimmy C Newman (host): Diggy Liggy Lo
Jean Shepard: The Things That Might Have Been/It Wasn't God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels/You Win Again/ A Dear John Letter
Del Wood: Alabama Jubilee/Down Yonder
Bessyl Duhon: Opryland Special
6:45: Rudys
Archie Campbell (host): Make Friends
Skeeter Davis: I'll Fly Away
Osborne Brothers: Rocky Top
Archie Campbell: Comedy
7:00: Shoneys
Porter Wagoner (host): Big Wind's A Comin
Connie Smith: How Great Thou Art
Don Williams: Some Broken Hearts Never Mend/I've Got A Winner In You
Wilburn Brothers: Because He Lives
Don Gibson: Oh, Lonesome Me
Porter Wagoner: Cold Hard Facts Of Life/Carroll County Accident/Green Grass Of Home/Ole Slewfoot
7:30: Standard Candy
Roy Acuff (host): Sunshine Special
Minnie Pearl: Careless Love/Comedy
4 Guys: Cottonfields/Mariah
Crook Brothers/Ralph Sloan Dancers: Lafayette
Roy Acuff: How Beautiful Heaven Must Be
8:00: Martha White
Bill Monroe (host): My Sweet Blue Eyed Darling
Stu Phillips: She Thinks I Still Care
Jan Howard: Will The Circle Be Unbroken
Charlie Louvin: Warm, Warm Woman
Justin Tubb: What's Wrong With The Way That We're Doing It Now
Wilma Lee Cooper: Poor Ellen Smith
Bill Monroe: Crying Holy Unto The Lord
8:30: Stephens
Hank Snow (host): I'm Moving On
Jeanne Pruett: Satin Sheets
Ronnie Milsap: Stand By My Woman Man/What Goes On When The Sun Goes Down/Day Dreams About Night Things/A Legend In My Time
Bill Carlisle: Leave That Liar Alone
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Nubbing Ridge
Hank Snow: I've Done At Least 1 Thing That Was Good In My Life
2nd show:
9:30: Kelloggs
Porter Wagoner (host): Dooley
Jean Shepard: If You've Got The Money, I've Got The Time
George Hamilton IV: Only The Best
Archie Campbell: The Interview
Osborne Brothers: Midnight Flyer
Willis Brothers: Bob
Porter Wagoner: Tennessee Saturday Night/On A Highway Headed South
10:00: Fender
Bill Monroe (host): Mary Jane, Won't You Be Mine
Ronnie Milsap: What A Difference You've Made In My Life/Let My Love Be Your Pillow
Kenny Baker: The Lucky Lady
10:15: Union 76
Roy Acuff (host): Meeting In The Air
Don Williams: Amanda/You're My Best Friend
Billy Grammer: Georgiana Moon
Howdy Forrester: Cotton Eyed Joe
10:30: Trailblazer
Jimmy C Newman (host): Colinda
Skeeter Davis: He Will Be There
Del Wood: Just Because
Jimmy C Newman: Big Bayou
10:45: Beechnut
Wilburn Brothers (host): Country Kind Of Feelins
Stu Phillips: I'd Rather Be Sorry
Jan Howard: Better Off Alone
Crook Brothers: Gray Eagle
11:00: Coca-Cola
Hank Snow (host): Tangled Mind
Justin Tubb: You'll Never Be Happy With Me
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Cracklin Hen
Wilma Lee Cooper: Bury Me Beneath The Willow
Kirk McGee: The Waltz You Saved For Me/Freight Train
Hank Snow: Once More, Your Mine Again
11:30: Elm Hill
Charlie Louvin (host): Let's Put Our World Back Together/A Toast To Mama/Love Has To Die All By Itself/I Ain't Gonna Work Tomorrow
Jeanne Pruett: Break My Mind/A Poor Man's Woman
Bill Carlisle: Amazing Grace
4 Guys: When Will I Be Loved
Charlie Louvin: Warm, Warm Woman
The 2nd show ended at 12:30am, so the show ran a half hour long. Del Reeves and Connie Smith and Don Gibson were only scheduled for the 1st show, while Lonzo & Oscar, Minnie Pearl and Stonewall Jackson were scheduled for both shows, but only did the 1st, cancelling out on the 2nd.
The video from that night has never been shown although bits and pieces have turned up in places. That would include the other 3 PBS shows also. I know I have been searching for videos of those nights forever and thanks to one of my great readers, I do have a DVD the 2nd show from 1981. I watch it on a regular basis and I am still looking to find more.
I hope you enjoy these looks back at Opry history.
Besides Jan Howard, who joined the Opry on March 27, 1971 (41 years), the other members of the Opry who joined this month were Jesse McReynolds, March 2, 1964 (48 years ago when he joined with him brother Jim), The Whites, who joined 28 years ago on March 2, 1984 and Trisha Yearwood, who joined 13 years ago on March 13, 1999.
Also taking place in March for 4 years, were the annual televised shows by PBS. The 1st show to be televised was on March 4, 1978, with the other shows being March 3, 1979, March 1, 1980 and March 14, 1981. The PBS telecasts came about when executives of the Public Broadcasting System approached the executives at the Grand Ole Opry with a proposal. They wanted to do something that had never been done before and that to put an entire evening of the Grand Ole Opry on television. PBS, faced with ever-increasing cuts in funding from the federal government needed to expand the base of its subscribers. It needed to reach people for contributions it had never been able to reach before and that was grass-roots America. So on Saturday March 4, 1978, the Opry was fully televised, carried coast to coast, just as it happened, on the PBS network. The only real concession to televison came when PBS covered the radio commericals with backstage interviews and features. (I can still remember the feature on the Opry post office).
To remember that night, here is the line up and the running order of the show:
1st show:
6:00: Vietti
Del Reeves (host): Two Dollars In The Jukebox/A Dime At A Time
Stonewall Jackson: Don't Be Angry
George Hamilton IV: Cornbread, Beans & Sweet Potato Pie
Lonzo & Oscar: When The Fields In The Valley Turn Green
Billy Grammer: Birth Of The Blues
Willis Brothers: Boots & Saddle
Del Reeves: Folsom Prison Blues/Margaritaville
6:30: Mrs Grissoms
Jimmy C Newman (host): Diggy Liggy Lo
Jean Shepard: The Things That Might Have Been/It Wasn't God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels/You Win Again/ A Dear John Letter
Del Wood: Alabama Jubilee/Down Yonder
Bessyl Duhon: Opryland Special
6:45: Rudys
Archie Campbell (host): Make Friends
Skeeter Davis: I'll Fly Away
Osborne Brothers: Rocky Top
Archie Campbell: Comedy
7:00: Shoneys
Porter Wagoner (host): Big Wind's A Comin
Connie Smith: How Great Thou Art
Don Williams: Some Broken Hearts Never Mend/I've Got A Winner In You
Wilburn Brothers: Because He Lives
Don Gibson: Oh, Lonesome Me
Porter Wagoner: Cold Hard Facts Of Life/Carroll County Accident/Green Grass Of Home/Ole Slewfoot
7:30: Standard Candy
Roy Acuff (host): Sunshine Special
Minnie Pearl: Careless Love/Comedy
4 Guys: Cottonfields/Mariah
Crook Brothers/Ralph Sloan Dancers: Lafayette
Roy Acuff: How Beautiful Heaven Must Be
8:00: Martha White
Bill Monroe (host): My Sweet Blue Eyed Darling
Stu Phillips: She Thinks I Still Care
Jan Howard: Will The Circle Be Unbroken
Charlie Louvin: Warm, Warm Woman
Justin Tubb: What's Wrong With The Way That We're Doing It Now
Wilma Lee Cooper: Poor Ellen Smith
Bill Monroe: Crying Holy Unto The Lord
8:30: Stephens
Hank Snow (host): I'm Moving On
Jeanne Pruett: Satin Sheets
Ronnie Milsap: Stand By My Woman Man/What Goes On When The Sun Goes Down/Day Dreams About Night Things/A Legend In My Time
Bill Carlisle: Leave That Liar Alone
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Nubbing Ridge
Hank Snow: I've Done At Least 1 Thing That Was Good In My Life
2nd show:
9:30: Kelloggs
Porter Wagoner (host): Dooley
Jean Shepard: If You've Got The Money, I've Got The Time
George Hamilton IV: Only The Best
Archie Campbell: The Interview
Osborne Brothers: Midnight Flyer
Willis Brothers: Bob
Porter Wagoner: Tennessee Saturday Night/On A Highway Headed South
10:00: Fender
Bill Monroe (host): Mary Jane, Won't You Be Mine
Ronnie Milsap: What A Difference You've Made In My Life/Let My Love Be Your Pillow
Kenny Baker: The Lucky Lady
10:15: Union 76
Roy Acuff (host): Meeting In The Air
Don Williams: Amanda/You're My Best Friend
Billy Grammer: Georgiana Moon
Howdy Forrester: Cotton Eyed Joe
10:30: Trailblazer
Jimmy C Newman (host): Colinda
Skeeter Davis: He Will Be There
Del Wood: Just Because
Jimmy C Newman: Big Bayou
10:45: Beechnut
Wilburn Brothers (host): Country Kind Of Feelins
Stu Phillips: I'd Rather Be Sorry
Jan Howard: Better Off Alone
Crook Brothers: Gray Eagle
11:00: Coca-Cola
Hank Snow (host): Tangled Mind
Justin Tubb: You'll Never Be Happy With Me
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Cracklin Hen
Wilma Lee Cooper: Bury Me Beneath The Willow
Kirk McGee: The Waltz You Saved For Me/Freight Train
Hank Snow: Once More, Your Mine Again
11:30: Elm Hill
Charlie Louvin (host): Let's Put Our World Back Together/A Toast To Mama/Love Has To Die All By Itself/I Ain't Gonna Work Tomorrow
Jeanne Pruett: Break My Mind/A Poor Man's Woman
Bill Carlisle: Amazing Grace
4 Guys: When Will I Be Loved
Charlie Louvin: Warm, Warm Woman
The 2nd show ended at 12:30am, so the show ran a half hour long. Del Reeves and Connie Smith and Don Gibson were only scheduled for the 1st show, while Lonzo & Oscar, Minnie Pearl and Stonewall Jackson were scheduled for both shows, but only did the 1st, cancelling out on the 2nd.
The video from that night has never been shown although bits and pieces have turned up in places. That would include the other 3 PBS shows also. I know I have been searching for videos of those nights forever and thanks to one of my great readers, I do have a DVD the 2nd show from 1981. I watch it on a regular basis and I am still looking to find more.
I hope you enjoy these looks back at Opry history.
Thursday, March 1, 2012
March 2, 1963-Final Opry Show for Hawkshaw Hawkins & Cowboy Copas
It was on Saturday March 2, 1963, that Hawkshaw Hawkins and Cowboy Copas performed on the Grand Ole Opry for the final time before passing away in a plane crash on March 5, 1963. It was the same crash that claimed the lives of Patsy Cline and Randy Hughes. Let's take a look back at their careers:
Harold Franklin "Hawkshaw" Hawkins has been unfairly relegated to the status of a footnote: one of the stars killed in the plane crash that took the lives of Patsy Cline, Cowboy Copas and Randy Hughes. But his contributions to country music go deeper than that. Hawkins was born on December 22, 1921 in Huntington, West Virginia. He began playing and singing early in life, and by his late teens landed a $15 a week job at WSAZ in Huntington. He worked at various stations before being drafted in 1942. Discharged in 1945, he finally make it to WWVA. In July 1946 he made his first recordings for King Records and in 1947 had modest success with "Sunny Side of the Mountain." His first hit record was a cover of Hank Williams' train song, "Pan American" which charted in 1948, followed by "Dog House Boogie." Though Hawkins' recording career was fitful, he was a star via radio and personal appearances. Records were only beginning to define an artist's success. In 1949 Hawkins had a minor hit with "I Wasted a Nickle" but returned to the Top 10 with a 1951 cover of Lefty Frizzell's hit "I Love You A Thousand Ways", followed by "I'm Waiting Just for You" and another cover version of the Pee Wee Kig hit, "Slow Poke." In 1955 he joined the Grand Ole Opry and signed with RCA Victor, where he had no success. In 1959, briefly singed to Columbia, he found success with "Soldier's Joy" a Revolutionary War song in the style of Johnny Horton's hit, "Battle of New Orleans." He married singer Jean Shepard, also an Opry cast member in 1960 and in 1962 he re-signed with King. His biggest hit, "Lonesome 7-7203" an upbeat honky tonk shuffle was climbing the charts in early 1963. After his death, it remained at Number One for four weeks.
Nearly every biography on Lloyd "Cowboy" Copas mentions his death in the plain crash that claimed Patsy Cline, Hawkshaw Hawkins and Randy Hughes. Most biographies note that Copas was an authentic Oklahoma-born cowboy. Actually, he was born on July 15, 1913 in Adams County, Ohio and was raised on an Ohio farm and started music has a 14 year old guitarist with The Hen Cacklers, a string band. In 1929 he began working with Midwest promoter Larry Sunbrock's stage show. Copas later worked in West Virginia before moving to WLW's Boone County Jamboree in the late 30s. Pee Wee King discovered him in 1940. At that point, Copas concocted the Oklahoma cowboy story. In 1944 he briefly replaced Eddy Arnold as vocalist with King's Golden West Cowboys. He signed with King Records in 1945, and his first hits were "Filipino Baby" and "Tragic Romance," the latter reaching #4 on the Billboard charts in 1946. Copas soon joined the Grand Ole Opry cast and in early 1948 had hits with "Signed, Sealed and Delivered" and Pee Wee King's "Tennessee Waltz." His 1949 hits included "Tennessee Moon." "Breeze" and "I'm Waltzing with Tears in My Eyes," George Morgan's "Candy Kisses" and "Hangman's Boogie." His 1951 duet with daughter Cathy, "The Strange Little Girl" also did well. He even had a pop hit with "Don't Leave My Poor Heart Breaking," a duet with pop singer Rosalind Patton, back by Elliot Lawrence's orchestra. In 1952 he had one hit with "Tis Sweet to Be Remembered." After leaving King he briefly joined Dot in 1956. After signing with Starday in 1960, "Alabam," a reworking of an old Frank Hutchison number titled "Coney Isle", remained #1 on the country charts for 12 weeks. He repeated the success in 1961 with the singles, "Flat Top" and "Sunny Tennessee." At Christmas of 1962 he returned to the Evergreen Baptist Church near his birthplace and sang the song "Goodbye Kisses" which Starday planned to issue that spring. After his death in 1963, the song broke into the Top 20. My final thought on Cowboy Copas is that he should be a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame. He had a solid career.
To remember Hawkshaw Hawkins and Cowboy Copas, here is the Grand Ole Opry line up from Saturday March 2, 1963, when they made their final Opry appearances.
7:30: Kelloggs
George Morgan (host): Little Dutch Girl
Carter Family: 14 Carat Nothing
Jimmy Newman: Bayou Talk
Willis Brothers: Eat A Little More
George Morgan: Untie the Knot
Harold Morrison: Pretty Little Pink
June Carter: Comedy
Jimmy Newman: A Fallen Star
George Morgan: Down Memory Lane
8:00: Martha White
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper (host): Come Walk With Me
Billy Walker: I've Got A New Heartache
Wilburn Brothers: Roll Muddy River
Stringbean: Pretty Little Widow
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper: There's A Higher Power
Del Wood: Are You From Dixie
Margie Bowes: Think It Over
Crook Brothers: Black Mountain Rag
Wilburn Brothers: Troubles Back In Town
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper: Philadelphia Lawyer
8:30: Stephens
HAWKSHAW HAWKINS (host): Darkness on the Face of the Earth
Lonzo & Oscar: There'sA Hole In the Bottom of the Sea
Bobby Lord: Out Behind the Barn
Archie Campbell: Comedy
HAWKSHAW HAWKINS: I Don't Apologize
Glasser Brothers: Lover's Farewell
Curley Fox: Instrumental
HAWKSHAW HAWKINS: Silver Thread & Golden Needles
9:00: Jefferson Island Salt
COWBOY COPAS (host): You Don't Have to Be A Baby to Cry
Bill Monore (?)
Roy Drusky: Second Hand Rose
Minnie Pearl: Comedy
COWBOY COPAS: Alabam
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Bill Cheatham
Bill Carlisle: Shutter & Boards
Bill Monroe (?)
COWBOY COPAS: The Man Upstairs
9:30 Pet Milk
Roy Acuff (host): Plastic Heart
Jordanaires (?)
Marion Worth: Shake Me, I Rattle
Cousin Jody: Lady Cop
Roy Acuff: The Wreck on the Highway
Brother Oswald: Roll On Buddy, Roll On
Justin Tubb (?)
Jimmy Riddle: Fox Chase
Roy Acuff: I'll Fly Away
10:00: Gates Rubber
George Morgan (host): Roly Poly
Curley Fox (?)
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper: Satisfied
Del Wood: Bill Bailey
George Morgan: Who's Jealous Now
10:15: Luzianne
Wilburn Brothers (host): Day After Day
Bill Carlisle: Leave That Liar Alone
Margie Bowes: Within Your Crowd
Harold Morrison: The Cat Came Back
Wilburn Brothers: Not That I Care
10:30: Harveys
Jimmy Newman (host) (?)
Carter Family (?)
Billy Walker: Thank You For Calling
Jimmy Newman (?)
10:45: Ford
HAWKSHAW HAWKINS (host): Big Old Heartache
Willis Brothers: I Still Do
Stringbean: There'll Be Moonshine in them Old Kentucky Hills
Crook Brothers: Sally Goodin
HAWKSHAW HAWKINS: Lonesome 7-7203 (Final Song)
11:00: Coca-Cola
Roy Acuff (host): Little Pal
Jordanaires (?)
Marion Worth: Tennessee Teardrops
Lonzo & Oscar: I'm My Own Grandpa
Roy Acuff & Brother Oswald: Suck Up Blues
Sam & Kirk McGee: While I'm Away
Justin Tubb (?)
Brother Oswald: John Hardy
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Nubbin Ridge
Roy Acuff: Shake My Mother's Hand For Me
11:30: SSS Tonic
COWBOY COPAS (host): Down in Nashville Tennessee
Bill Monroe (?)
Roy Drusky: It Worries Me
Cousin Jody: Mockingbird
Archie Campbell: Fool's Side of Town
Glasser Brothers: Odds & Ends
Bobby Lord: So Doggone Lonesome
Bill Monroe (?)
COWBOY COPAS: Flat Top (Final Song)
Harold Franklin "Hawkshaw" Hawkins has been unfairly relegated to the status of a footnote: one of the stars killed in the plane crash that took the lives of Patsy Cline, Cowboy Copas and Randy Hughes. But his contributions to country music go deeper than that. Hawkins was born on December 22, 1921 in Huntington, West Virginia. He began playing and singing early in life, and by his late teens landed a $15 a week job at WSAZ in Huntington. He worked at various stations before being drafted in 1942. Discharged in 1945, he finally make it to WWVA. In July 1946 he made his first recordings for King Records and in 1947 had modest success with "Sunny Side of the Mountain." His first hit record was a cover of Hank Williams' train song, "Pan American" which charted in 1948, followed by "Dog House Boogie." Though Hawkins' recording career was fitful, he was a star via radio and personal appearances. Records were only beginning to define an artist's success. In 1949 Hawkins had a minor hit with "I Wasted a Nickle" but returned to the Top 10 with a 1951 cover of Lefty Frizzell's hit "I Love You A Thousand Ways", followed by "I'm Waiting Just for You" and another cover version of the Pee Wee Kig hit, "Slow Poke." In 1955 he joined the Grand Ole Opry and signed with RCA Victor, where he had no success. In 1959, briefly singed to Columbia, he found success with "Soldier's Joy" a Revolutionary War song in the style of Johnny Horton's hit, "Battle of New Orleans." He married singer Jean Shepard, also an Opry cast member in 1960 and in 1962 he re-signed with King. His biggest hit, "Lonesome 7-7203" an upbeat honky tonk shuffle was climbing the charts in early 1963. After his death, it remained at Number One for four weeks.
Nearly every biography on Lloyd "Cowboy" Copas mentions his death in the plain crash that claimed Patsy Cline, Hawkshaw Hawkins and Randy Hughes. Most biographies note that Copas was an authentic Oklahoma-born cowboy. Actually, he was born on July 15, 1913 in Adams County, Ohio and was raised on an Ohio farm and started music has a 14 year old guitarist with The Hen Cacklers, a string band. In 1929 he began working with Midwest promoter Larry Sunbrock's stage show. Copas later worked in West Virginia before moving to WLW's Boone County Jamboree in the late 30s. Pee Wee King discovered him in 1940. At that point, Copas concocted the Oklahoma cowboy story. In 1944 he briefly replaced Eddy Arnold as vocalist with King's Golden West Cowboys. He signed with King Records in 1945, and his first hits were "Filipino Baby" and "Tragic Romance," the latter reaching #4 on the Billboard charts in 1946. Copas soon joined the Grand Ole Opry cast and in early 1948 had hits with "Signed, Sealed and Delivered" and Pee Wee King's "Tennessee Waltz." His 1949 hits included "Tennessee Moon." "Breeze" and "I'm Waltzing with Tears in My Eyes," George Morgan's "Candy Kisses" and "Hangman's Boogie." His 1951 duet with daughter Cathy, "The Strange Little Girl" also did well. He even had a pop hit with "Don't Leave My Poor Heart Breaking," a duet with pop singer Rosalind Patton, back by Elliot Lawrence's orchestra. In 1952 he had one hit with "Tis Sweet to Be Remembered." After leaving King he briefly joined Dot in 1956. After signing with Starday in 1960, "Alabam," a reworking of an old Frank Hutchison number titled "Coney Isle", remained #1 on the country charts for 12 weeks. He repeated the success in 1961 with the singles, "Flat Top" and "Sunny Tennessee." At Christmas of 1962 he returned to the Evergreen Baptist Church near his birthplace and sang the song "Goodbye Kisses" which Starday planned to issue that spring. After his death in 1963, the song broke into the Top 20. My final thought on Cowboy Copas is that he should be a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame. He had a solid career.
To remember Hawkshaw Hawkins and Cowboy Copas, here is the Grand Ole Opry line up from Saturday March 2, 1963, when they made their final Opry appearances.
7:30: Kelloggs
George Morgan (host): Little Dutch Girl
Carter Family: 14 Carat Nothing
Jimmy Newman: Bayou Talk
Willis Brothers: Eat A Little More
George Morgan: Untie the Knot
Harold Morrison: Pretty Little Pink
June Carter: Comedy
Jimmy Newman: A Fallen Star
George Morgan: Down Memory Lane
8:00: Martha White
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper (host): Come Walk With Me
Billy Walker: I've Got A New Heartache
Wilburn Brothers: Roll Muddy River
Stringbean: Pretty Little Widow
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper: There's A Higher Power
Del Wood: Are You From Dixie
Margie Bowes: Think It Over
Crook Brothers: Black Mountain Rag
Wilburn Brothers: Troubles Back In Town
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper: Philadelphia Lawyer
8:30: Stephens
HAWKSHAW HAWKINS (host): Darkness on the Face of the Earth
Lonzo & Oscar: There'sA Hole In the Bottom of the Sea
Bobby Lord: Out Behind the Barn
Archie Campbell: Comedy
HAWKSHAW HAWKINS: I Don't Apologize
Glasser Brothers: Lover's Farewell
Curley Fox: Instrumental
HAWKSHAW HAWKINS: Silver Thread & Golden Needles
9:00: Jefferson Island Salt
COWBOY COPAS (host): You Don't Have to Be A Baby to Cry
Bill Monore (?)
Roy Drusky: Second Hand Rose
Minnie Pearl: Comedy
COWBOY COPAS: Alabam
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Bill Cheatham
Bill Carlisle: Shutter & Boards
Bill Monroe (?)
COWBOY COPAS: The Man Upstairs
9:30 Pet Milk
Roy Acuff (host): Plastic Heart
Jordanaires (?)
Marion Worth: Shake Me, I Rattle
Cousin Jody: Lady Cop
Roy Acuff: The Wreck on the Highway
Brother Oswald: Roll On Buddy, Roll On
Justin Tubb (?)
Jimmy Riddle: Fox Chase
Roy Acuff: I'll Fly Away
10:00: Gates Rubber
George Morgan (host): Roly Poly
Curley Fox (?)
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper: Satisfied
Del Wood: Bill Bailey
George Morgan: Who's Jealous Now
10:15: Luzianne
Wilburn Brothers (host): Day After Day
Bill Carlisle: Leave That Liar Alone
Margie Bowes: Within Your Crowd
Harold Morrison: The Cat Came Back
Wilburn Brothers: Not That I Care
10:30: Harveys
Jimmy Newman (host) (?)
Carter Family (?)
Billy Walker: Thank You For Calling
Jimmy Newman (?)
10:45: Ford
HAWKSHAW HAWKINS (host): Big Old Heartache
Willis Brothers: I Still Do
Stringbean: There'll Be Moonshine in them Old Kentucky Hills
Crook Brothers: Sally Goodin
HAWKSHAW HAWKINS: Lonesome 7-7203 (Final Song)
11:00: Coca-Cola
Roy Acuff (host): Little Pal
Jordanaires (?)
Marion Worth: Tennessee Teardrops
Lonzo & Oscar: I'm My Own Grandpa
Roy Acuff & Brother Oswald: Suck Up Blues
Sam & Kirk McGee: While I'm Away
Justin Tubb (?)
Brother Oswald: John Hardy
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Nubbin Ridge
Roy Acuff: Shake My Mother's Hand For Me
11:30: SSS Tonic
COWBOY COPAS (host): Down in Nashville Tennessee
Bill Monroe (?)
Roy Drusky: It Worries Me
Cousin Jody: Mockingbird
Archie Campbell: Fool's Side of Town
Glasser Brothers: Odds & Ends
Bobby Lord: So Doggone Lonesome
Bill Monroe (?)
COWBOY COPAS: Flat Top (Final Song)