The Grand Ole Opry has posted the line-up for the first two shows of 2015 and it looks to be like the year is going to be off to a pretty good start. The Friday Night Opry and Saturday's Grand Ole Opry are both looking like they will be two pretty nice shows.
First, it is nice to see Connie Smith back on the Opry schedule after missing the past several months. This should be an exciting year for Connie as 2015 will be her 50th anniversary from when she first joined the Opry, back in 1965. Appearing with her both nights, and hosting the segments that she is featured on, will be her husband Marty Stuart. Also scheduled both nights are Opry members Larry Gatlin, Riders In The Sky, Mike Snider, Jeannie Seely and Bill Anderson.
Joining this group on the Friday Night Opry will be Opry members Ricky Skaggs and The Whites. Guest artists include The Henningsens, who are scheduled for both nights, along with Randy Montana. Randy has been around for a couple of years now and has guested on the Opry before. In 2011 he released his only album to date, which didn't quite make to into the Top 40. Also scheduled for Friday night is the legendary group, The Chuck Wagon Gang. The original Chuck Wagon Gang was formed in 1935. It has been over 30 years since their last Opry appearance and they will be on the segment hosted by Marty Stuart. Yes, there is a connection there as on Tuesday February 10th, a documentary will be premiered which will be hosted by Marty Stuart.
Saturday's Grand Ole Opry will feature guest artists Craig Wayne Boyd, Lauren Alaina and EmiSunshine. For Craig Wayne Boyd, this will be his first Grand Ole Opry appearance. Many of you have probably heard of him before as he won season 7 of "The Voice" as a member of Blake Shelton's team. He does have a true country voice and is working on his first album. Lauren Alaina has appeared several times previously on the Opry, as has EmiSunshine. All of 10 years of age, she does gospel and Americana music and has been impressive in her previous appearances.
Friday January 2
7:00: Riders In The Sky (host); Randy Montana; Jeannie Seely
7:30: Larry Gatlin (host); The Whites; Ricky Skaggs
Intermission
8:15: Bill Anderson (host); Mike Snider; The Henningsens
8:45: Marty Stuart (host); Connie Smith; The Chuck Wagon Gang
Saturday January 3
7:00: Riders In The Sky (host); The Henningsens; Jeannie Seely
7:30: Larry Gatlin (host); Mike Snider; Craig Wayne Boyd
Intermission
8:15: Bill Anderson (host); Lauren Alaina; Opry Square Dancers
8:45: Marty Stuart (host); Connie Smith; Emisunshine
Recently the Opry has had a hard time coming up with enough hosts. That is not the case this weekend as folks who usually host, such as Ricky Skaggs, The Whites, Jeannie Seely, Mike Snider and Connie Smith, all capable of hosting, are not this weekend. And it is nice to see more than 3 or 4 Opry members on the schedule for both nights.
The Ernest Tubb Midnight Jamboree is offering live shows for much of the month of January and this week's host will be Opry member Marty Stuart. I would say that he should draw a nice crowd for this week's show.
And now, here is the posted Grand Ole Opry line-up from 5 years ago, the weekend of January 1 & 2, 2010:
Friday January 1
7:00: Riders In The Sky (host); Jim Ed Brown; Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Josh Thompson
7:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jimmy C Newman; Sunny Sweeney
8:00: John Conlee (host); Jan Howard; Johnny Counterfit; Mountain Heart
8:30: Mike Snider (host); George Hamilton IV; Jean Shepard; Exile
Saturday January 2
7:00: Jimmy Dickens (host); Connie Smith; Big Kenny
7:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Riders In The Sky; Jack Greene; Cherryholmes
8:00: John Conlee (host); Jesse McReynolds; Jett Williams; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Mike Snider (host); Jean Shepard; Jim Ed Brown; Suzy Bogguss
Now from 10 years ago this weekend, December 31, 2004 and January 1, 2005:
Friday December 31
7:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); w/Helen Cornelius; Jimmy C Newman; Stevens Sisters
8:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Stu Phillips; Billy Walker; T.G. Sheppard
8:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Rebecca Lynn Howard
9:00: Bill Anderson (host); Charlie Walker; Shawn Camp
9:30: Jean Shepard (host); Ashley Gearing; Jack Greene
Saturday January 1
6:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jimmy C Newman; Stevens Sisters
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Jack Greene; T.G. Sheppard
7:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Billy Walker; Jean Shepard; T. Graham Brown
8:00: Jim Ed Brown (host); w/Helen Cornelius; Jan Howard; Rebecca Lynn Howard; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Bill Anderson (host); Osborne Brothers; Dierks Bentley
And from 15 years ago, Friday December 31, 1999 and Saturday January 1, 2000:
Friday December 31, 1999
7:30: Porter Wagoner (host); Skeeter Davis; Bill Carlisle; Jett Williams; Jack Greene
8:00: Jean Shepard (host); Jan Howard; Jim Ed Brown; Linda Davis
8:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jeanne Pruett; Del Reeves; Sisters Wade
9:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Charlie Louvin; Billy Walker; Riders In The Sky
9:30: The Whites (host); Jimmy C Newman; Stu Phillips
Saturday January 1, 2000:
1st show
6:30: Jean Shepard (host); Bill Carlisle; Jett Williams; Osborne Brothers
7:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Jimmy C Newman; 4 Guys; The Whites
7:30: Lorrie Morgan (host); Stonewall Jackson; Brad Paisley
8:00: Bill Anderson (host); Mike Snider; Gail Davies; Jim Ed Brown; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); George Hamilton IV; Jeannie Seely; Del McCoury Band
2nd show
9:30: Porter Wagoner (host); Jean Shepard; Osborne Brothers; Lorrie Morgan
10:00: Jim Ed Brown (host); Jeannie Seely
10:15: Jimmy Dickens (host); Brad Paisley
10:30: Bill Anderson (host); The Whites; Jett Williams
10:45: Billy Walker (host); Jan Howard; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Mike Snider (host); Jeanne Pruett; Jack Greene; Gail Davies
11:30: George Hamilton IV (host); Charlie Walker; Ray Pillow; Del McCoury Band
For this week's featured line-up, I go back to 55 years, to Saturday January 2, 1960. There are two interesting facts about this night and line-up. First, according to many reports, Billy Walker became an Opry member the night before, on January 1, 1960, yet he is not scheduled for this show. Secondly, the following week, January 9, 1960, Patsy Cline would become a member of the Opry. On this particular night, she was scheduled for two different segments.
7:30: Pet Milk
Marty Robbins (host): Sweet Lies
Rusty and Doug: The Love I Want
Justin Tubb: I'm A Big Boy Now
June Carter: Comedy Routine
Marty Robbins: El Paso
Jerry Byrd: Slippery Elm
Glaser Brothers: Bay Of Mexico
Justin Tubb: Mine Is A Lonely Life
Marty Robbins: Just Married
8:00: Martha White
Flatt and Scruggs (host): Don't Let Your Deal Go Down
Carl Butler: Grief In My Heart
Benny Martin: If I Can Stay Away Long Enough
Alex Houston: And Elmer
Flatt and Scruggs: I'm On My Way
Carl Butler: Don't Steal From A Poor Man
Cousin Jake: Old McDonald Had A Farm
Crook Brothers: Lost Indian
Benny Martin: Me And MY Fiddle
Flatt and Scruggs: Foggy Mountain Rock
8:30: Prince Albert
Don Gibson (host): I'm Moving On
Archie Campbell: Comedy Routine
Billy Grammer: Loveland
Tommy Jackson: Black Mountain Rag
Don Gibson: No One Stands Alone
Chet Atkins: Wildwood Flower
Minnie Pearl: Comedy Routine
Billy Grammer: It Takes You
Stringbean: Train Special 500
Don Gibson: Don't Tell Me Your Troubles
Tommy Jackson: Sally Goodin
9:00: Jefferson Island Salt
Porter Wagoner (host): Uncle Pen
George Morgan: You're The Only Good
Harvie June: Poor Wildwood Flower
Cousin Jody: Horses Carry Tales
Porter Wagoner: Your Kind Of People
Jordanaries: I Ain't Never
Minnie Pearl: Comedy Routine
Fruit Jars: Sally Johnson
George Morgan: Come Away From His Arms
Porter Wagoner: Pay Day
9:30: Stephens
Hank Snow (host): Chasin' A Rainbow
Bill Monroe: Tomorrow I'll Be Gone
Patsy Cline: Eyes Of A Child
Lonzo and Oscar: Gotta' Find Julie
Hank Snow: I Heard My Heart Break Last Night
Rusty and Doug: The Love I Want
Bill Monroe: Dark As The Night-Blue As The Day
Patsy Cline: Walking After Midnight
Hank Snow: Golden Rocket
10:00: Jamsion Bedding
Marty Robbins (host): El Paso
Carl Butler: Grief In My Heart
Rusty and Doug: I Like You
Crook Brothers: Arkansas Traveler
Marty Robbins: Hanging Tree
Glaser Brothers: She Loves The Love I Give Her
Carl Butler: I'll Cry Tomorrow
Rusty and Doug: Love Me To Pieces
Marty Robbins: I Can't Quit
10:30: Pops-Rite Popcorn
Don Gibson (host): I'm Moving On
Justin Tubb: Almost Lonely
Stringbean: Barnyard Banjo Picking
Don Gibson: Who Cares
Fiddle Tune: Leather Britches
10:45: De Con
Flatt and Scruggs (host): If I Should Wander Back Tonight
Benny Martin: Nine Pound Hammer
Harvie June: Mama Don't Chase My Love Away
Flatt and Scruggs: I'm Crying My Heart Out Over You
Fiddle Tune: Soldier's Joy
11:00: Coca-Cola
Hank Snow (host): The Last Ride
Billy Grammer: Kissing Tree
Lonzo and Oscar: Going Down The Road Feeling Bad
Fruit Jars: Old Joe Clark
Hank Snow: The Party Of The Second Part
Jordanaries: He's Got The Whole World In His Hands
Sam and Kirk: Roll On, Buddy, Roll On
Billy Grammer: Loveland
Hank Snow: My Blue Eyed Jane
11:30: Phillips & Buttorff
George Morgan (host): Cry Baby Heart
Bill Monroe: Wait A Little Longer Please Jesus
Cousin Jody: Mocking Bird
George Morgan: Candy Kisses
Bill Monroe: Scotland
11:45: Wall-Rite
Porter Wagoner (host): Tell Her Lies And Feed Her Candy
Patsy Cline: Oh Lonsome Me
Rusty and Doug: I Like You
Porter Wagoner: Satisfield Mind
I think we can all agree that the 1960 show was a very nice night to have been at the Opry. As for this week, the year is off to a good start so enjoy the Opry this weekend!!
Nationally recognized independent Grand Ole Opry historian Byron Fay offers news and comments regarding country music's premier show.
Tuesday, December 30, 2014
Sunday, December 28, 2014
Jimmy Dickens
The Nashville Tennesean is reporting that Jimmy Dickens was hospitalized on Christmas Day and is in critical condition from an undisclosed illness. No other details have been posted but the family, his friends and the Opry are all asking for prayers.
Wednesday, December 24, 2014
Grand Ole Opry 12/26 & 12/27
The Grand Ole Opry finishes out 2015 with two shows this weekend. Nothing really special lined up, but with a lot of the stars off enjoying the holiday with their families, they have managed to come up with a couple of decent shows.
The Friday Night Opry will feature guests artists Jim Lauderdale, Jeff Bates, TG Sheppard, Holly Williams and one of my favorites, Johnny Counterfit. Also scheduled, and staying around for Saturday night, is the ever present Chris Janson.
Saturday's Grand Ole Opry, in addition to Chris, will feature The Willis Clan, Kelleigh Bannen, Joe Mullins & The Radio Ramblers, along with "Nashville" star Charles Esten. As far as Opry members this weekend, nice to see Jean Shepard back on the schedule, along with John Conlee, Jeannie Seely, Mike Snider and Riders In The Sky, all of whom will be hosting both nights. Jan Howard was on the original schedule for the weekend but has been taken off.
Friday December 26
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Jim Lauderdale; Jeff Bates
7:30: John Conlee (host); Johnny Counterfit; Lindsay Ell
Intermission
8:15: Mike Snider (host); TG Sheppard; Holly Williams
8:45: Riders In The Sky (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Chris Janson
Saturday December 27
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Chris Janson; (Jimmy Dickens?)
7:30: Mike Snider (host); Jean Shepard; The Willis Clan
Intermission
8:15: John Conlee (host); Jesse McReynolds; Kelleigh Bannen; Opry Square Dancers
8:45: Riders In The Sky (host); Joe Mullins & The Radio Ramblers; Charles Esten
As with most shows in 2014, both nights feature more guests than actual Opry members. And on one additional note, some have asked about Connie Smith. I saw that she, along with Marty, were at the funeral this past week for Dawn Sears. On the short video clip that I saw from a Nashville television station, she looked pretty good. Hopefully she returns to the Opry soon.
And now, here is the Grand Ole Opry posted line-up from 5 years ago this weekend, December 25 & 26, 2009:
Friday December 25
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Blaine Larsen
7:30: George Hamilton IV (host); Jesse McReynolds; Elizabeth Cook
8:00: Riders In The Sky (host); Jack Greene; Dailey & Vincent
8:30: Mike Snider (host); Charlie Louvin; T. Graham Brown
Saturday December 26
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Jesse McReynolds; Rebecca Lynn Howard
7:30: George Hamilton IV (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Eddy Raven
8:00: Riders In The Sky (host); Jan Howard; Dailey & Vincent; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Mike Snider (host); Jack Greene; Restless Heart
And from 10 years ago this weekend, December 24 & 25, 2004:
Friday December 24
7:30: Porter Wagoner (host); Osborne Brothers; T. Graham Brown
8:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Stonewall Jackson; Ray Pillow; Pinmonkey
8:30: George Hamilton IV (host); Jack Greene; Rodney Atkins
9:00: Jim Ed Brown (host); Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Sherrie Austin
9:30: Jean Shepard (host); Elizabeth Cook; Hal Bynum
Saturday December 25
6:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Jack Greene; Pinmonkey
7:00: George Hamilton IV (host); Gail Davies; Melonie Cannon
7:30: Jean Shepard (host); Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Elizabeth Cook; Opry Square Dancers
8:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Billy Walker; Sherrie Austin
8:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); Osborne Brothers; Mandy Barnett
To finish out 2014, here is the Opry line-up and running order 39 years ago this weekend, Saturday December 27, 1975.
1st show
6:30: Mrs. Grissoms
Charlie Louvin (host): Columbus Stockade Blues
Stu Phillips: Only You Can Hush the Wind
Tim Stacy: The Bitter They Are
Charlie Louvin: See the Big Man Cry
6:45: Rudy's
Bill Monroe (host): Can't You Hear Me Calling
Skeeter Davis: Love Will Keep Us Together
David Houston: Almost Persuaded
Bill Monroe: Monroe's Blues
7:00: Shoney's
Ernest Tubb (host): If You Don't Quit Checking On Me
Barbara Mandrell: Standing Room Only
Stonewall Jackson: Don't Be Angry
Lonzo and Oscar: Lonesome Road Blues
Jimmy C Newman: Blue Lonely Winter
Ernie Ashworth: The High Cost of Living
Ernest Tubb: Another Story, Another Time, Another Place
7:30: Standard Candy
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Jean Shepard: Another Neon Night
Charlie Walker: Pick Me Up On Your Way Down
Crook Brothers/Stoney Mountain Cloggers: Billy In the Low Ground
Jimmy Dickens: John Henry
Charlie McCoy: Lonesome Whistle
Roy Acuff: I Saw the Light
8:00: Martha White
Lester Flatt (host): w/The Nashville Grass: Don't Let Your Deal Go Down
Dottie West: Back Home Again
Bob Luman: Someone to Give My Love To
Bill Charlisle: Have A Drink On Me
4 Guys: Turn Your Radio On
Del Wood: The World Is Waiting for the Sunrise
Lester Flatt: Let the Church Roll On
8:30: Stephen's
Hank Snow (host): I'm Moving On
Jeanne Pruett: Satin Sheets
Roy Drusky: Second Hand Rose
Billy Grammer: Family Man
Willis Brothers; Blue Eyes Crying In the Rain
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Hickory Leaf
Hank Snow: Waiting for A Train
2nd show
9:30: Kellogg's
Bill Monroe (host): Sitting In the Shade of An Old Willow Tree
Willis Brothers: Truck Stop
Stonewall Jackson: Washed My Hands In Muddy Water
Skeeter Davis: Let It Shine
David Houston: Almost Persuaded
Lonzo and Oscar: American Trilogy
Billy Grammer: Somewhere My Love
10:00: Fender
Ernest Tubb (host): Slippin' Around
Charlie Louvin: I Just Want Out
Stu Phillips: There Must Be Another Way to Say Goodbye
Charlie McCoy: Orange Blossom Special
10:15: Union 76
Roy Acuff (host): Old Time Sunshine Song
Barbara Mandrell: Satisfied
Charlie Walker: Pick Me Up On Your Way Down
Roy Acuff: Walk A Mile In Your Neighbor's Shoes
10:30: Trailblazer
Lester Flatt (host): Rollin' In My Sweet Baby's Arms
Jean Shepard: Another Neon Night
4 Guys: Hello Walls/Big Bad John/Wings Of A Dove
Jimmy C Newman: Deep Water
Charlie Nixon: Little Liza Jane
10:45: Beech-Nut
Roy Drusky (host): Sunrise
Bill Carlisle: I'm Moving
Ernie Ashworth: Take Back Trembling Lips
Crook Brothers/Stoney Mountain Cloggers: Old Joe Clark
11:00: Coca-Cola
Hank Snow (host): Gonna Find Me A Bluebird
Dottie West: Country Sunshine
Bob Luman: Let Me Make the Bright Lights Shine For You
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Cacklin' Hen
Dottie West: Here Comes My Baby
Kirk McGee: While I'm Away
Hank Snow: One Day At A Time
11:30: Elm Hill
Marty Robbins (host): Don't Worry
Jeanne Pruett: Satin Sheets/My Baby's Gone
Jimmy Dickens: Sleeping At the Foot of the Bed
Del Wood: Leaning on the Everlasting Arm
Marty Robbins: Devil Woman/Love Me/Big Boss Man/I'll Step Aside/Long Gone Lonesome Blues/Eighteen Yellow Roses/My Woman, My Woman, My Wife/El Paso
What a great show that night and when you look back, how few artists from that night are still with us at the Opry today: Stu Phillips, Barbara Mandrell, Stonewall, Jean Shepard, Jimmy Dickens and Jeanne Pruett. And only Jean and Jimmy are active on the Opry today.
Since this is the final Opry shows for 2014, I will begin to put together my year in review, covering Opry appearances and other special events that took place in 2014. It usually takes a couple of weeks to put it together so look for it right after the first of the year.
Happy New Year and enjoy the Opry this weekend!!!
The Friday Night Opry will feature guests artists Jim Lauderdale, Jeff Bates, TG Sheppard, Holly Williams and one of my favorites, Johnny Counterfit. Also scheduled, and staying around for Saturday night, is the ever present Chris Janson.
Saturday's Grand Ole Opry, in addition to Chris, will feature The Willis Clan, Kelleigh Bannen, Joe Mullins & The Radio Ramblers, along with "Nashville" star Charles Esten. As far as Opry members this weekend, nice to see Jean Shepard back on the schedule, along with John Conlee, Jeannie Seely, Mike Snider and Riders In The Sky, all of whom will be hosting both nights. Jan Howard was on the original schedule for the weekend but has been taken off.
Friday December 26
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Jim Lauderdale; Jeff Bates
7:30: John Conlee (host); Johnny Counterfit; Lindsay Ell
Intermission
8:15: Mike Snider (host); TG Sheppard; Holly Williams
8:45: Riders In The Sky (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Chris Janson
Saturday December 27
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Chris Janson; (Jimmy Dickens?)
7:30: Mike Snider (host); Jean Shepard; The Willis Clan
Intermission
8:15: John Conlee (host); Jesse McReynolds; Kelleigh Bannen; Opry Square Dancers
8:45: Riders In The Sky (host); Joe Mullins & The Radio Ramblers; Charles Esten
As with most shows in 2014, both nights feature more guests than actual Opry members. And on one additional note, some have asked about Connie Smith. I saw that she, along with Marty, were at the funeral this past week for Dawn Sears. On the short video clip that I saw from a Nashville television station, she looked pretty good. Hopefully she returns to the Opry soon.
And now, here is the Grand Ole Opry posted line-up from 5 years ago this weekend, December 25 & 26, 2009:
Friday December 25
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Blaine Larsen
7:30: George Hamilton IV (host); Jesse McReynolds; Elizabeth Cook
8:00: Riders In The Sky (host); Jack Greene; Dailey & Vincent
8:30: Mike Snider (host); Charlie Louvin; T. Graham Brown
Saturday December 26
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Jesse McReynolds; Rebecca Lynn Howard
7:30: George Hamilton IV (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Eddy Raven
8:00: Riders In The Sky (host); Jan Howard; Dailey & Vincent; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Mike Snider (host); Jack Greene; Restless Heart
And from 10 years ago this weekend, December 24 & 25, 2004:
Friday December 24
7:30: Porter Wagoner (host); Osborne Brothers; T. Graham Brown
8:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Stonewall Jackson; Ray Pillow; Pinmonkey
8:30: George Hamilton IV (host); Jack Greene; Rodney Atkins
9:00: Jim Ed Brown (host); Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Sherrie Austin
9:30: Jean Shepard (host); Elizabeth Cook; Hal Bynum
Saturday December 25
6:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Jack Greene; Pinmonkey
7:00: George Hamilton IV (host); Gail Davies; Melonie Cannon
7:30: Jean Shepard (host); Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Elizabeth Cook; Opry Square Dancers
8:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Billy Walker; Sherrie Austin
8:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); Osborne Brothers; Mandy Barnett
To finish out 2014, here is the Opry line-up and running order 39 years ago this weekend, Saturday December 27, 1975.
1st show
6:30: Mrs. Grissoms
Charlie Louvin (host): Columbus Stockade Blues
Stu Phillips: Only You Can Hush the Wind
Tim Stacy: The Bitter They Are
Charlie Louvin: See the Big Man Cry
6:45: Rudy's
Bill Monroe (host): Can't You Hear Me Calling
Skeeter Davis: Love Will Keep Us Together
David Houston: Almost Persuaded
Bill Monroe: Monroe's Blues
7:00: Shoney's
Ernest Tubb (host): If You Don't Quit Checking On Me
Barbara Mandrell: Standing Room Only
Stonewall Jackson: Don't Be Angry
Lonzo and Oscar: Lonesome Road Blues
Jimmy C Newman: Blue Lonely Winter
Ernie Ashworth: The High Cost of Living
Ernest Tubb: Another Story, Another Time, Another Place
7:30: Standard Candy
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Jean Shepard: Another Neon Night
Charlie Walker: Pick Me Up On Your Way Down
Crook Brothers/Stoney Mountain Cloggers: Billy In the Low Ground
Jimmy Dickens: John Henry
Charlie McCoy: Lonesome Whistle
Roy Acuff: I Saw the Light
8:00: Martha White
Lester Flatt (host): w/The Nashville Grass: Don't Let Your Deal Go Down
Dottie West: Back Home Again
Bob Luman: Someone to Give My Love To
Bill Charlisle: Have A Drink On Me
4 Guys: Turn Your Radio On
Del Wood: The World Is Waiting for the Sunrise
Lester Flatt: Let the Church Roll On
8:30: Stephen's
Hank Snow (host): I'm Moving On
Jeanne Pruett: Satin Sheets
Roy Drusky: Second Hand Rose
Billy Grammer: Family Man
Willis Brothers; Blue Eyes Crying In the Rain
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Hickory Leaf
Hank Snow: Waiting for A Train
2nd show
9:30: Kellogg's
Bill Monroe (host): Sitting In the Shade of An Old Willow Tree
Willis Brothers: Truck Stop
Stonewall Jackson: Washed My Hands In Muddy Water
Skeeter Davis: Let It Shine
David Houston: Almost Persuaded
Lonzo and Oscar: American Trilogy
Billy Grammer: Somewhere My Love
10:00: Fender
Ernest Tubb (host): Slippin' Around
Charlie Louvin: I Just Want Out
Stu Phillips: There Must Be Another Way to Say Goodbye
Charlie McCoy: Orange Blossom Special
10:15: Union 76
Roy Acuff (host): Old Time Sunshine Song
Barbara Mandrell: Satisfied
Charlie Walker: Pick Me Up On Your Way Down
Roy Acuff: Walk A Mile In Your Neighbor's Shoes
10:30: Trailblazer
Lester Flatt (host): Rollin' In My Sweet Baby's Arms
Jean Shepard: Another Neon Night
4 Guys: Hello Walls/Big Bad John/Wings Of A Dove
Jimmy C Newman: Deep Water
Charlie Nixon: Little Liza Jane
10:45: Beech-Nut
Roy Drusky (host): Sunrise
Bill Carlisle: I'm Moving
Ernie Ashworth: Take Back Trembling Lips
Crook Brothers/Stoney Mountain Cloggers: Old Joe Clark
11:00: Coca-Cola
Hank Snow (host): Gonna Find Me A Bluebird
Dottie West: Country Sunshine
Bob Luman: Let Me Make the Bright Lights Shine For You
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Cacklin' Hen
Dottie West: Here Comes My Baby
Kirk McGee: While I'm Away
Hank Snow: One Day At A Time
11:30: Elm Hill
Marty Robbins (host): Don't Worry
Jeanne Pruett: Satin Sheets/My Baby's Gone
Jimmy Dickens: Sleeping At the Foot of the Bed
Del Wood: Leaning on the Everlasting Arm
Marty Robbins: Devil Woman/Love Me/Big Boss Man/I'll Step Aside/Long Gone Lonesome Blues/Eighteen Yellow Roses/My Woman, My Woman, My Wife/El Paso
What a great show that night and when you look back, how few artists from that night are still with us at the Opry today: Stu Phillips, Barbara Mandrell, Stonewall, Jean Shepard, Jimmy Dickens and Jeanne Pruett. And only Jean and Jimmy are active on the Opry today.
Since this is the final Opry shows for 2014, I will begin to put together my year in review, covering Opry appearances and other special events that took place in 2014. It usually takes a couple of weeks to put it together so look for it right after the first of the year.
Happy New Year and enjoy the Opry this weekend!!!
Sunday, December 21, 2014
Christmas and Holiday Greetings
Each year around this time, I have taken a moment to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and a Happy New Year. I hope that it is a blessed day for all of you and that you have family and friends to share the day with. I also hope Santa brings each of you everything you have asked for.
I also want to take a moment to offer my personal thanks to all of those who have read or commented on the blog. I wish I could give each of you a personal present, but I guess in a way, doing this blog could be considered my gift to you. Many of you have offered comments, some have emailed and others communicate with me on Facebook. No matter how you do it, my thanks and appreciation. While we may disagree on a few things, I like to think that we are all friends who care about the Opry.
Each year around this time, I have also offered my own Christmas wishes to the Opry and it's members. Like last year, I am going to keep it pretty simple.
To those who have had health issues this past year, such as Jean Shepard, Jim Ed Brown and Randy Travis, my wish is good health and many more Opry appearances. To the veterans and legends, such as Ray Pillow, Stonewall Jackson, Jan Howard and Stu Phillips, my wish is more Opry appearances and that maybe when you do appear, you can sing two songs instead of just one.
For the newer members, please don't forget where the Opry House is. The Opry needs you and cannot survive without you. And for those members who haven't been to the Opry in a while, please come back. I guarantee that you are missed and you will have a good time. And to those members who did make a few more appearances this past year, thanks. And for those who make guest appearances on the Opry, my thanks. With many of the Opry's members not appearing, you are all vital to the show.
For Vince Gill, Ricky Skaggs, Larry Gatlin, John Conlee, Lorrie Morgan, Mel Tillis and Carrie Underwood, thanks for understanding what Opry membership is about and thanks for supporting the show. Others talk about it, you do it.
I have a few special mentions for this year: For Jim Ed Brown, our thoughts and prayers for your recovery. And perhaps this will be the year you receive a call from the Hall of Fame, informing you that you are the newest member. You and your sisters have waited long enough. For Jimmy Dickens, 94 and still going strong. May you continue to set the example for those much younger. And to Jean Shepard, my hope that you continue to come out to the Opry as you prepare to celebrate your 60th anniversary as an Opry member.
For the Opry management, specifically Steve Buchanan and Pete Fisher, please don't mess with the show anymore. You have done enough and besides, most of us liked it the way it was. And I think we can all agree that the 89th birthday bash wasn't very good. You have a chance to redeem yourselves in 2015 for the 90th. And don't forget that 2015 is also the 50th Opry anniversary for Connie Smith. Finally, please do a better job at picking new Opry members. Let's face it, you have missed on the last couple.
And let's not forget the families of those we lost this past year, Jimmy C Newman, George Hamilton IV and Earl White. May their families be blessed this holiday season.
For those who attend the Opry, or listen to the show, my thanks. I know some weeks it has been tough. Some of the shows just haven't been up to par this past year, but just when you think you are ready to give up on the Opry, they come up with something great.
Finally, I do want to offer my own thanks to those who I have met in my travels to Nashville. Many of you have gone out of your way to say hi and for that I say thanks. And for those I have not met, don't give up. That day may come yet!!
As we prepare to enter 2015, I hope all of you will continue to enjoy the blog. If you like it, tell your friends. Maybe they will like it also. And, I am often asked if anyone from the Opry reads the blog. Well, I found out this past year that they do. And while they don't agree with everything that is written, they do appreciate everyone's opinion.
So Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to everyone. And not to get to political as I end tonight, but if I have one Christmas wish for everyone it would be good health to each of you and peace on Earth.
Blessings to you all:
Byron
aka: Fayfare
I also want to take a moment to offer my personal thanks to all of those who have read or commented on the blog. I wish I could give each of you a personal present, but I guess in a way, doing this blog could be considered my gift to you. Many of you have offered comments, some have emailed and others communicate with me on Facebook. No matter how you do it, my thanks and appreciation. While we may disagree on a few things, I like to think that we are all friends who care about the Opry.
Each year around this time, I have also offered my own Christmas wishes to the Opry and it's members. Like last year, I am going to keep it pretty simple.
To those who have had health issues this past year, such as Jean Shepard, Jim Ed Brown and Randy Travis, my wish is good health and many more Opry appearances. To the veterans and legends, such as Ray Pillow, Stonewall Jackson, Jan Howard and Stu Phillips, my wish is more Opry appearances and that maybe when you do appear, you can sing two songs instead of just one.
For the newer members, please don't forget where the Opry House is. The Opry needs you and cannot survive without you. And for those members who haven't been to the Opry in a while, please come back. I guarantee that you are missed and you will have a good time. And to those members who did make a few more appearances this past year, thanks. And for those who make guest appearances on the Opry, my thanks. With many of the Opry's members not appearing, you are all vital to the show.
For Vince Gill, Ricky Skaggs, Larry Gatlin, John Conlee, Lorrie Morgan, Mel Tillis and Carrie Underwood, thanks for understanding what Opry membership is about and thanks for supporting the show. Others talk about it, you do it.
I have a few special mentions for this year: For Jim Ed Brown, our thoughts and prayers for your recovery. And perhaps this will be the year you receive a call from the Hall of Fame, informing you that you are the newest member. You and your sisters have waited long enough. For Jimmy Dickens, 94 and still going strong. May you continue to set the example for those much younger. And to Jean Shepard, my hope that you continue to come out to the Opry as you prepare to celebrate your 60th anniversary as an Opry member.
For the Opry management, specifically Steve Buchanan and Pete Fisher, please don't mess with the show anymore. You have done enough and besides, most of us liked it the way it was. And I think we can all agree that the 89th birthday bash wasn't very good. You have a chance to redeem yourselves in 2015 for the 90th. And don't forget that 2015 is also the 50th Opry anniversary for Connie Smith. Finally, please do a better job at picking new Opry members. Let's face it, you have missed on the last couple.
And let's not forget the families of those we lost this past year, Jimmy C Newman, George Hamilton IV and Earl White. May their families be blessed this holiday season.
For those who attend the Opry, or listen to the show, my thanks. I know some weeks it has been tough. Some of the shows just haven't been up to par this past year, but just when you think you are ready to give up on the Opry, they come up with something great.
Finally, I do want to offer my own thanks to those who I have met in my travels to Nashville. Many of you have gone out of your way to say hi and for that I say thanks. And for those I have not met, don't give up. That day may come yet!!
As we prepare to enter 2015, I hope all of you will continue to enjoy the blog. If you like it, tell your friends. Maybe they will like it also. And, I am often asked if anyone from the Opry reads the blog. Well, I found out this past year that they do. And while they don't agree with everything that is written, they do appreciate everyone's opinion.
So Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to everyone. And not to get to political as I end tonight, but if I have one Christmas wish for everyone it would be good health to each of you and peace on Earth.
Blessings to you all:
Byron
aka: Fayfare
Wednesday, December 17, 2014
Grand Ole Opry 12/19 & 12/20
With the Christmas season coming to and end, the Grand Ole Opry is back to just one show on Friday night and one show on Saturday. The Tuesday Night Opry finished up for the year this past week and will resume in March. As for the Opry this weekend, let's just be kind and say that it isn't quite up to last week's schedule.
The Friday Night Opry will feature Opry members Jeannie Seely, Jesse McReynolds, Thw Whites, Bill Anderson and Riders In The Sky. Also scheduled are two of the Opry's more frequent guests, Chris Janson and The Willis Clan. It is really nice to see The Earls of Leicester scheduled. This group is headed up by Jerry Douglas and is a tribute to Flatt & Scruggs. The CD has been very well received. Among other guests on Friday, Karyn Williams is a Christian artist making her Grand Ole Opry debut in support of her debut CD, while Doug Seegers is also scheduled with this description, "modern country music is like aged whiskey, but Seegers if pure moonshine, raw and clear, giving a good burn all the way down."
Last week's shows featured no artists from "Nashville", this week they more than make up for it. Clare Bowen is scheduled for both Friday and Saturday night, while once again, Saturday's final segment is given over to actors from the show with Clare being joined by Jonathan Jackson and Charles Esten.
As far as Opry members on Saturday, Bill Anderson and Jeannie Seely return for a 2nd night, while Ricky Skaggs and Sharon White are scheduled. They will also be signing their new CD at the Ryman after the show. And, after missing last week, Mike Snider is back.
Friday December 19
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Chris Janson; Jesse McReynolds
7:30: The Whites (host); Karyn Williams; The Earls of Leicester
Intermission
8:15: Bill Anderson (host); Exile; Clare Bowen
8:45: Riders In The Sky (host); Doug Seegers; The Willis Clan
Saturday December 20
7:00: Bill Anderson (host); Striking Matches; (Jimmy Dickens?)
7:30: Mike Snider (host); Eric Paslay
Intermission
8:15: Jeannie Seely (host); Ricky Skaggs & Sharon White; Opry Square Dancers
8:45: Jonathan Jackson; Clare Bowen; Charles Esten
I would assume that Jimmy Dickens will be there on Saturday night, while I am hoping that another act will be scheduled for the 2nd segment. If not, I guess that will leave us with a Tuesday night type show.
There is no live Midnight Jamboree this weekend. Instead a taped show from last year will be run, a Christmas special hosted by George Hamilton IV.
And now, here is the Grand Ole Opry posted line-up from 5 years ago this weekend, December 18 & 19, 2009:
Friday December 18
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Jimmy C Newman; Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press
7:30: Jean Shepard (host); Mandy Barnett; Ralph Stanley
8:00: Bill Anderson (host); Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Jim Lauderdale
8:30: Emmylou Harris (host); The Whites; Gillian Welch & David Rawlings
Saturday December 19
7:00: Jimmy Dickens (host); Connie Smith; Emily West
7:30: Bill Anderson (host); Jan Howard; Ralph Stanley
8:00: Emmylou Harris (host); The Whites; Gillian Welch & David Rawlings; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Ronnie Milsap (host); George Hamilton IV; Jean Shepard; Amber Digby
Now from 10 years ago this weekend, December 17 & 18, 2004:
Friday December 17
7:30: Porter Wagoner (host); Ralph Stanley; Lorrie Morgan
8:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Charlie Walker; Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Josh Gracin
8:30: George Hamilton IV (host); Jan Howard; Jimmy C Newman; Del McCoury Band
9:00: Bill Anderson (host); Connie Smith; Josh Turner
9:30: Diamond Rio (host); Jean Shepard; Osborne Brothers
Saturday December 18
1st show
6:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Connie Smith; Jim Lauderdale; Blaine Larsen
7:00: Jim Ed Brown (host); w/Helen Cornelius; Joe Nichols; Jimmy Wayne; Trick Pony; Ralph Stanley
8:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Jean Shepard; Billy Walker; Del McCoury Band; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Bill Anderson (host); Riders In The Sky; Brad Paisley
2nd show
9:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); w/Helen Cornelius; Connie Smith; Blaine Larsen
10:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Billy Walker; Osborne Brothers; Jimmy Wayne
10:30: Jean Shepard (host); George Hamilton IV; Ralph Stanley; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Bill Anderson (host); Del McCoury Band; Joe Nichols
11:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Charlie Louvin; Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Trick Pony
For this week's feature line-up, I go to Saturday December 20, 1986. It was this date 28 years ago that Randy Travis became a member of the Grand Ole Opry.
Randy came to Nashville from North Carolina. When he first came to town, he was employed as a cook at The Nashville Palace, located across the street from the Opryland Hotel. At the time, he was known as Randy Traywick, then as Randy Ray. Finally as Randy Travis, he was signed by Warner Bros. Records in 1985. In 1986, his debut album was released, "Storms of Life" and sold over 4 million copies. The hits and awards followed. He was won 6 CMA awards, 10 American Music Awards, 9 ACM's and 6 Grammys. Many feel it will just be a matter of time before he is elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame. Sadly, the past several years have not been kind to Randy as he has gone through a divorce, a management shake up, and several arrests. He is currently living in Texas and continues to work at recovery from a series of health issues.
Let's remember the good times from Randy Travis and the night he was inducted into the cast of the Grand Ole Opry, Saturday December 20, 1986:
1st show
6:30: Bonanza
Del Reeves (host): Two Dollars in the JukeBox/A Dime at A Time/Looking at the World Through A Windshield
Skeeter Davis: The Rose
Del Reeves: Anywhere U.S.A.
6:45: Rudy's
Porter Wagoner (host): Sugarfoot Rag
Riders In The Sky: Christmas at the Triple X Ranch
Porter Wagoner: Your Old Love Letters
7:00: Shoney's
Ricky Skaggs (host): Love's Gonna Get You Someday
Lorrie Morgan: One Love At A Time
Jim & Jesse: When I Dream About the Southland
Randy Travis: Diggin' Up Bones/White Christmas Makes Me Blue
Ricky Skaggs: Walking in Jerusalem Just Like John
7:30: Standard Candy
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Jean Shepard: Kentucky
Roy Drusky: Silent Night
Crook Brothers/Melvin Sloan Dancers: Chicken Reel
Carolee Singers: A Song the Holy Angels Cannot Sing
Dan Kelly: Sally Goodin'
8:00: Martha White
Bill Monroe (host): Can't You Hear Me Calling
The Whites: It Should've Been Easy
Stonewall Jackson: Why I'm Walkin'
Archie Campbell: Make Friends
Connie Smith: How Great Thou Art
Bill Monroe: Christmas Time's A 'Comin'
8:30: Music Valley Merchants
Hank Snow (host): I'm Moving On
Boxcar Willie: Fireball Mail/Train of Love/Hand Me Down My Walking Cane/Wreck of the Old 97/Orange Blossom Special/Wabash Cannonball/Night Train to Memphis
Osborne Brothers: Makin' Plans
Mel McDaniel: Tennessee Saturday Night/Stand On It
Hank Snow: Christmas Roses
2nd show
9:30: Dollar General Stores
Porter Wagoner (host): Ol' Slewfoot
4 Guys: God Bless the USA
Del Reeves: The Race is On
Jan Howard: Why Lady Why
Billy Walker: Coffee Brown Eyes
Porter Wagoner: I Thought I Heard You Calling My Name
10:00: Little Debbie
Ricky Skaggs (host): Cajun Moon
The Whites: If It Ain't Love
Randy Travis: On the Other Hand
Ricky Skaggs: Country Boy
10:15: Sunbeam
Roy Acuff (host): Meeting in the Air
George Hamilton IV: C-H-R-I-S-T-M-A-S
Roy Acuff: That's the Man I'm Looking For
10:30: Pet Milk
Bill Monroe (host): Old Ebanezer Scrooge
Charlie Louvin: Sunshine on My Shoulders
Bill Monroe: You're Drifting Away/Christmas Time's A' Comin'
10:45: Heil-Quaker
Archie Campbell (host): Make Friends
Bill Carlisle: No Help Wanted
Crook Brothers/Melvin Sloan Dancers: Sally Goodin'
11:00: Coca-Cola
Hank Snow (host): Tangled Mind
Jean Shepard: The Old Rugged Cross
Justin Tubb: Lonesome 7-7203
Charlie Walker: Pick Me Up On Your Way Down
Mel McDaniel: Baby's Got Her Blue Jeans On/Stand On It
Hank Snow: Silent Night
11:30: Quincy's
Boxcar Willie (host): Fireball Mail/Train of Love/Hand Me Down My Walking Cane/Wreck of the Old 97/Orange Blossom Special/Wabash Cannonball/Night Train to Memphis
Osborne Brothers: Me and My Old Banjo
Connie Smith: The Deepening Snow/Sing, Sing, Sing
Boxcar Willie: Cold, Cold Heart/Take These Chains From My Heart/Half As Much/I Can't Help It/Your Cheatin' Heart/They'll Never Take Her Love From Me/Wedding Bells/Lovesick Blues/Move It On Over
Congratulations to Randy Travis and enjoy the Opry this weekend!!!
The Friday Night Opry will feature Opry members Jeannie Seely, Jesse McReynolds, Thw Whites, Bill Anderson and Riders In The Sky. Also scheduled are two of the Opry's more frequent guests, Chris Janson and The Willis Clan. It is really nice to see The Earls of Leicester scheduled. This group is headed up by Jerry Douglas and is a tribute to Flatt & Scruggs. The CD has been very well received. Among other guests on Friday, Karyn Williams is a Christian artist making her Grand Ole Opry debut in support of her debut CD, while Doug Seegers is also scheduled with this description, "modern country music is like aged whiskey, but Seegers if pure moonshine, raw and clear, giving a good burn all the way down."
Last week's shows featured no artists from "Nashville", this week they more than make up for it. Clare Bowen is scheduled for both Friday and Saturday night, while once again, Saturday's final segment is given over to actors from the show with Clare being joined by Jonathan Jackson and Charles Esten.
As far as Opry members on Saturday, Bill Anderson and Jeannie Seely return for a 2nd night, while Ricky Skaggs and Sharon White are scheduled. They will also be signing their new CD at the Ryman after the show. And, after missing last week, Mike Snider is back.
Friday December 19
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Chris Janson; Jesse McReynolds
7:30: The Whites (host); Karyn Williams; The Earls of Leicester
Intermission
8:15: Bill Anderson (host); Exile; Clare Bowen
8:45: Riders In The Sky (host); Doug Seegers; The Willis Clan
Saturday December 20
7:00: Bill Anderson (host); Striking Matches; (Jimmy Dickens?)
7:30: Mike Snider (host); Eric Paslay
Intermission
8:15: Jeannie Seely (host); Ricky Skaggs & Sharon White; Opry Square Dancers
8:45: Jonathan Jackson; Clare Bowen; Charles Esten
I would assume that Jimmy Dickens will be there on Saturday night, while I am hoping that another act will be scheduled for the 2nd segment. If not, I guess that will leave us with a Tuesday night type show.
There is no live Midnight Jamboree this weekend. Instead a taped show from last year will be run, a Christmas special hosted by George Hamilton IV.
And now, here is the Grand Ole Opry posted line-up from 5 years ago this weekend, December 18 & 19, 2009:
Friday December 18
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Jimmy C Newman; Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press
7:30: Jean Shepard (host); Mandy Barnett; Ralph Stanley
8:00: Bill Anderson (host); Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Jim Lauderdale
8:30: Emmylou Harris (host); The Whites; Gillian Welch & David Rawlings
Saturday December 19
7:00: Jimmy Dickens (host); Connie Smith; Emily West
7:30: Bill Anderson (host); Jan Howard; Ralph Stanley
8:00: Emmylou Harris (host); The Whites; Gillian Welch & David Rawlings; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Ronnie Milsap (host); George Hamilton IV; Jean Shepard; Amber Digby
Now from 10 years ago this weekend, December 17 & 18, 2004:
Friday December 17
7:30: Porter Wagoner (host); Ralph Stanley; Lorrie Morgan
8:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Charlie Walker; Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Josh Gracin
8:30: George Hamilton IV (host); Jan Howard; Jimmy C Newman; Del McCoury Band
9:00: Bill Anderson (host); Connie Smith; Josh Turner
9:30: Diamond Rio (host); Jean Shepard; Osborne Brothers
Saturday December 18
1st show
6:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Connie Smith; Jim Lauderdale; Blaine Larsen
7:00: Jim Ed Brown (host); w/Helen Cornelius; Joe Nichols; Jimmy Wayne; Trick Pony; Ralph Stanley
8:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Jean Shepard; Billy Walker; Del McCoury Band; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Bill Anderson (host); Riders In The Sky; Brad Paisley
2nd show
9:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); w/Helen Cornelius; Connie Smith; Blaine Larsen
10:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Billy Walker; Osborne Brothers; Jimmy Wayne
10:30: Jean Shepard (host); George Hamilton IV; Ralph Stanley; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Bill Anderson (host); Del McCoury Band; Joe Nichols
11:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Charlie Louvin; Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Trick Pony
For this week's feature line-up, I go to Saturday December 20, 1986. It was this date 28 years ago that Randy Travis became a member of the Grand Ole Opry.
Randy came to Nashville from North Carolina. When he first came to town, he was employed as a cook at The Nashville Palace, located across the street from the Opryland Hotel. At the time, he was known as Randy Traywick, then as Randy Ray. Finally as Randy Travis, he was signed by Warner Bros. Records in 1985. In 1986, his debut album was released, "Storms of Life" and sold over 4 million copies. The hits and awards followed. He was won 6 CMA awards, 10 American Music Awards, 9 ACM's and 6 Grammys. Many feel it will just be a matter of time before he is elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame. Sadly, the past several years have not been kind to Randy as he has gone through a divorce, a management shake up, and several arrests. He is currently living in Texas and continues to work at recovery from a series of health issues.
Let's remember the good times from Randy Travis and the night he was inducted into the cast of the Grand Ole Opry, Saturday December 20, 1986:
1st show
6:30: Bonanza
Del Reeves (host): Two Dollars in the JukeBox/A Dime at A Time/Looking at the World Through A Windshield
Skeeter Davis: The Rose
Del Reeves: Anywhere U.S.A.
6:45: Rudy's
Porter Wagoner (host): Sugarfoot Rag
Riders In The Sky: Christmas at the Triple X Ranch
Porter Wagoner: Your Old Love Letters
7:00: Shoney's
Ricky Skaggs (host): Love's Gonna Get You Someday
Lorrie Morgan: One Love At A Time
Jim & Jesse: When I Dream About the Southland
Randy Travis: Diggin' Up Bones/White Christmas Makes Me Blue
Ricky Skaggs: Walking in Jerusalem Just Like John
7:30: Standard Candy
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Jean Shepard: Kentucky
Roy Drusky: Silent Night
Crook Brothers/Melvin Sloan Dancers: Chicken Reel
Carolee Singers: A Song the Holy Angels Cannot Sing
Dan Kelly: Sally Goodin'
8:00: Martha White
Bill Monroe (host): Can't You Hear Me Calling
The Whites: It Should've Been Easy
Stonewall Jackson: Why I'm Walkin'
Archie Campbell: Make Friends
Connie Smith: How Great Thou Art
Bill Monroe: Christmas Time's A 'Comin'
8:30: Music Valley Merchants
Hank Snow (host): I'm Moving On
Boxcar Willie: Fireball Mail/Train of Love/Hand Me Down My Walking Cane/Wreck of the Old 97/Orange Blossom Special/Wabash Cannonball/Night Train to Memphis
Osborne Brothers: Makin' Plans
Mel McDaniel: Tennessee Saturday Night/Stand On It
Hank Snow: Christmas Roses
2nd show
9:30: Dollar General Stores
Porter Wagoner (host): Ol' Slewfoot
4 Guys: God Bless the USA
Del Reeves: The Race is On
Jan Howard: Why Lady Why
Billy Walker: Coffee Brown Eyes
Porter Wagoner: I Thought I Heard You Calling My Name
10:00: Little Debbie
Ricky Skaggs (host): Cajun Moon
The Whites: If It Ain't Love
Randy Travis: On the Other Hand
Ricky Skaggs: Country Boy
10:15: Sunbeam
Roy Acuff (host): Meeting in the Air
George Hamilton IV: C-H-R-I-S-T-M-A-S
Roy Acuff: That's the Man I'm Looking For
10:30: Pet Milk
Bill Monroe (host): Old Ebanezer Scrooge
Charlie Louvin: Sunshine on My Shoulders
Bill Monroe: You're Drifting Away/Christmas Time's A' Comin'
10:45: Heil-Quaker
Archie Campbell (host): Make Friends
Bill Carlisle: No Help Wanted
Crook Brothers/Melvin Sloan Dancers: Sally Goodin'
11:00: Coca-Cola
Hank Snow (host): Tangled Mind
Jean Shepard: The Old Rugged Cross
Justin Tubb: Lonesome 7-7203
Charlie Walker: Pick Me Up On Your Way Down
Mel McDaniel: Baby's Got Her Blue Jeans On/Stand On It
Hank Snow: Silent Night
11:30: Quincy's
Boxcar Willie (host): Fireball Mail/Train of Love/Hand Me Down My Walking Cane/Wreck of the Old 97/Orange Blossom Special/Wabash Cannonball/Night Train to Memphis
Osborne Brothers: Me and My Old Banjo
Connie Smith: The Deepening Snow/Sing, Sing, Sing
Boxcar Willie: Cold, Cold Heart/Take These Chains From My Heart/Half As Much/I Can't Help It/Your Cheatin' Heart/They'll Never Take Her Love From Me/Wedding Bells/Lovesick Blues/Move It On Over
Congratulations to Randy Travis and enjoy the Opry this weekend!!!
Monday, December 15, 2014
Recap of Last Weekend at the Opry
As I had mentioned, I decided to head down to Nashville and attend the Opry this past weekend. I went to all three shows, which were at the Ryman Auditorium. Each of the three were sold out and the crowds were very enthusiastic. Just my opinion, but there is always something magical about seeing the Opry at the Ryman and I thought all three shows were very good, much better than many of the shows that the Opry has produced lately. I thought I would share my thoughts and observations, starting with the shows on Saturday night.
Each time I see Carrie Underwood at the Opry, I appreciate her, and her music more. And I really appreciate the fact that she is probably the only one of her generation who not only belongs as a member of the Opry, but actually shows up and performs. Bill Anderson said it best when he introduced her during the 1st show on Saturday, when he said that Carrie could be performing on any stage, in any city in the world and for a lot more money, yet she elected to spend Saturday night at the Opry. I can't speak for the veterans, but I think in their own way, they appreciate her supporting the show. What also impressed me was that she did three songs on the first show, and three different songs on the 2nd. So many times, the artists will do the same numbers on both shows. And yes, she is pregnant, yet it has not slowed her down.
I was very anxious to see Kacey Musgraves, and folks, she is the real deal. Not only is she great, and country, but so is her band. To see them dressed up in the suits, sparking in colors, was a great site. They looked like a country & western band. Yes, she did mispronounce Dawn Sears name, and she felt bad about it, but you could also tell she was very nervous. It showed. The audience loved when she did "Don't Fence Me In." A very nice tribute. Bill Anderson made some very nice comments, and he has mentioned in the past that he thinks Kacey has a big future in country music. Hopefully, nobody will mess with her too bad and change her style.
This was also the first time I had seen The Henningsens. The act consists of a father and his son and daughter. The first thing I thought of was The Wilkinsons, who you might remember had a hit or two in the 1990s, and then faded away. Brian, Clara and Aaron are their names and they did two Christmas songs from their new CD. They did a very nice job and I can see why they have been guests on the Opry so many times. Also, Clara is pregnant, which gave us two pregnant performers on the Opry on Saturday, which might have been a first. Kree Harrison, from American Idol, did a couple of ballads on each show. I think she has a very nice voice, not much in style. I don't know what the future holds for her. At this point, she has not had a breakout hit and continues to try to find her way in the industry.
As far as Opry members, I will start with Emmylou Harris. She is as pretty as always, and what a great voice. I hope it came through well on the radio. The first show she did the great Merle Haggard hit, "Kern River." I thought it was a strange song for her to start off with, but she nailed it. The audience was hanging on each word. She finished her segment with "Even Cowgirls Get the Blues", with Kree Harrison joining in along with another young lady who's name I did not catch. Also of note, when the curtain opened, Emmylou started looking around behind her and realized that her bass was missing. He came running out with his instrument. The second show, she opened with "Two More Bottles of Wine', and finished her segment with a Christmas number, again with Kree Harrison. Of note, she forgot the commercial break between Kree Harrison and Bobby Osborne and I was watching Eddie Stubbs try to get her attention, but she was turned the other way and the show kept rolling. Also regarding Emmylou, she read her introduction of Kree Harrison from a card. I have noticed this with several other Opry hosts, so it would be apparent to me that Pete Fisher wants to make sure that guest artists get properly introduced when on the Opry. Now, for Bobby Osborne. He did "Rocky Top" both shows, with a 2nd number on the 2nd show. Bobby was in fine voice but he has added the snare drum again to his band, with his oldest son playing it. I think the drum just takes away and adds a bad sound to "Rocky Top." That song was just fine without a snare drum being played on it. One last comment about Bobby and this is responding to the comment on Bobby doing "Rocky Top" every week. A lot of the song selection from the veterans is not their choice, but what they are being asked, or "suggested" by Opry management to do. I know several of them would love to do other material, but cannot. (Jack Greene did "There Goes My Everything" and "Statue of A Fool" each time he was on in his final years). While we may get tired of hearing "Rocky Top" each week, those in the audience love it and the song always receives one of the loudest ovations.
John Conlee opened both shows, wearing a sports coat and tie. John does a great job hosting and got the shows started on the right note. Jeannie Seely, who also appeared on Friday night, hosted a segment on the 1st show. Nothing really special out of Jeannie. She did two Christmas numbers, and actually the same two she has been doing the past several weeks. Craig Morgan was one of her guests on the 1st show and hosted a segment on the 2nd. As a host, I think he is great. Lot's of humor from him and real nice introductions. I compare his hosting style to that of Larry Gatlin. Just someone out there having fun with the other performers and with the audience. During the first show, he did a different version of "I Don't Remember Loving You", the great John Conlee song. John stood at the side of the stage and came out when the song ended. Craig said he has recorded it, so it might be out next year.
Finally, there was Jimmy Dickens. He appeared only on the first show. Came out as usual, told a few jokes which the audience loved, and did "Mountain Dew." He did not forget the words and I thought his voice was pretty good. You can tell he has lost some weight, but overall seemed in good health and good spirits. He is 94 this coming Friday.
To finish up Saturday, there was a comment made about the speed of the show, especially Emmylou's segment. I can tell you from watching, they were making a big effort to keep the first show on time and not running over. They had a sold-out crowd for the 2nd show waiting outside and with the construction on the Ryman going on, there is only one real entrance to the building and that is the side entrance if you are familiar with the building. But as far as the show, it did not feel rush and I thought the pace was ok. As far as the 2nd show, they held up the start by about ten minutes in order to get as many people in as they could before the start, and it ended about four or five minutes early. Again, from my perspective in the audience, it did not seem rushed, just the flow of the show that particular night.
Now for the Friday Night Opry and a few comments. There were three guest artists, Sara Haze, Amber Digby and Minton Sparks. There is nothing special about Sara Haze. If there was a weak spot on any of the shows, it was Sara. I am pretty sure she sang the same two songs that she did during the birthday weekend in October. Nothing special there. I had seen Amber Digby once before, hosting the Ernest Tubb Midnight Jamboree. This was the first time I had seen her on the Opry, and again, she is real country and the real deal. She is part of the "Heart of Texas" group, and if you have heard her, then you know her voice is real country. She said she has a new CD coming out in February of Osborne Brothers material. I am looking forward to that. Friday it was just her, not her entire band. Minton Sparks was a name that I did not recognize and it was her first time on the Opry. She is a story teller and a good one. She did two, about her grandmother's purse, if I remember right, and another one that I can't remember the title. I thought the first story was good, with some humor to it. Comedy and the old-style story telling is something that I think the Opry could use more of. I think Minton did enough of a good job that she will be invited back.
As far as Opry members, the three big names were Joe Diffie, Marty Stuart and Dierks Bentley, all of whom did a very nice job. It is always a pleasure to see all three on the Opry and wish they were there more often. Marty Stuart is such a great host. Lots of energy and fun times. Thanks to that final segment with Marty, the show ran over by about ten minutes, with no complaints. Just an FYI, but Marty did not mention Connie at all. Marty also had Harry Stinson, his drummer out front and center, singing "Dixie." Very nicely done. Dierks Bentley was also fine, lots of energy and he had his full band with him.
As far as the veterans, Jesse McReynolds did two instrumental numbers. Jesse is looking good and his mandolin playing is still top notch. Ray Pillow hosted the second segment, and while he is still a great singer, I have to wonder about his hosting skills. He mispronounced Amber Digby's name, and even admitted that he had just met her. I just hate that. And he was reading the introduction off a card. I just think it could be a bit more professional. I am sure many have noticed that since Jimmy C Newman and George Hamilton IV have passed away, and with Jim Ed Brown ill, we are seeing much more of Ray on the Opry and hosting segments. I just hope they are not overworking Ray!!
Bill Anderson hosted on all three shows and Bill looked and sounded very good. It is hard to believe, but once you get past Jimmy Dickens, Bill would be one of the last veteran Opry performers left from his generation. Friday night he did "Po' Folks Christmas" and "Still", while on Saturday night he did his newer song about his feelings on Christmas (I admit I forget the exact title). He received a huge ovation from both audiences on Saturday. I thought that Pete Fisher made a good decision having Bill host the final segments on Saturday and doing two songs to start out, then having Carrie and Kacey do three, with Bill finishing up and concluding the show without having to follow the ladies with another number.
Finally, there is Jean Shepard. She was on and did "Second Fiddle." She sounds good but she is pretty frail looking. She had to be assisted out to the stage and when she was finished. She did her song sitting on a stool. But again, she was energetic and the audience appreciated the effort. Next year is her 60th year as an Opry member, and discounting the stringband members from the years past, that might make her the first solo artist to make it 60 consecutive years on the Opry. That would be an achievement and I am sure she is hoping to make it.
Looking at where the Opry is at today, I thought these were three very good shows. The line-ups were solid, and there was a nice mix of younger talent and veterans. The audience appreciated the efforts by everyone and as I have already stated, it still gives me hope for the Opry.
A last note on the Opry and what people expect when they go. On Friday night, I was sitting next to two very nice ladies, I would say in their 40s. We started talking a little bit before the show and I found out they were from North Dakota and it was their first trip to Nashville or the Opry. I told them I attend many times and I thought they would enjoy the show. At intermission the one lady turned to me and asked if this was what the Opry was always like. When I asked her what she meant, she said that she couldn't believe that Joe Diffie and the others did just one or two songs. She was expecting more!! I explained the Opry to her and what the show was about and she said it was nothing like she saw when she watched the Opry on GAC and the Opry scenes on "Nashville." I did tell her that the Opry on GAC was not the true Opry, but actually was a scripted hour with just three or four performers who did do four or five songs each, while the real Opry was a radio show. They had no idea who Ray Pillow was since they had never seen him on GAC. No, I explained to her that only the young, hot stars were on television. Sadly, they ended up leaving before the show ended.
Finally, I have a facebook page that I posted pictures from Friday and Saturday night. Many of you who comment and follow the blog already follow me on facebook and I appreciate the comments. It is not all country music and the Opry and if anyone wishes to follow me on facebook, just type in Byron Fay. Make sure to get the right one!!
Each time I see Carrie Underwood at the Opry, I appreciate her, and her music more. And I really appreciate the fact that she is probably the only one of her generation who not only belongs as a member of the Opry, but actually shows up and performs. Bill Anderson said it best when he introduced her during the 1st show on Saturday, when he said that Carrie could be performing on any stage, in any city in the world and for a lot more money, yet she elected to spend Saturday night at the Opry. I can't speak for the veterans, but I think in their own way, they appreciate her supporting the show. What also impressed me was that she did three songs on the first show, and three different songs on the 2nd. So many times, the artists will do the same numbers on both shows. And yes, she is pregnant, yet it has not slowed her down.
I was very anxious to see Kacey Musgraves, and folks, she is the real deal. Not only is she great, and country, but so is her band. To see them dressed up in the suits, sparking in colors, was a great site. They looked like a country & western band. Yes, she did mispronounce Dawn Sears name, and she felt bad about it, but you could also tell she was very nervous. It showed. The audience loved when she did "Don't Fence Me In." A very nice tribute. Bill Anderson made some very nice comments, and he has mentioned in the past that he thinks Kacey has a big future in country music. Hopefully, nobody will mess with her too bad and change her style.
This was also the first time I had seen The Henningsens. The act consists of a father and his son and daughter. The first thing I thought of was The Wilkinsons, who you might remember had a hit or two in the 1990s, and then faded away. Brian, Clara and Aaron are their names and they did two Christmas songs from their new CD. They did a very nice job and I can see why they have been guests on the Opry so many times. Also, Clara is pregnant, which gave us two pregnant performers on the Opry on Saturday, which might have been a first. Kree Harrison, from American Idol, did a couple of ballads on each show. I think she has a very nice voice, not much in style. I don't know what the future holds for her. At this point, she has not had a breakout hit and continues to try to find her way in the industry.
As far as Opry members, I will start with Emmylou Harris. She is as pretty as always, and what a great voice. I hope it came through well on the radio. The first show she did the great Merle Haggard hit, "Kern River." I thought it was a strange song for her to start off with, but she nailed it. The audience was hanging on each word. She finished her segment with "Even Cowgirls Get the Blues", with Kree Harrison joining in along with another young lady who's name I did not catch. Also of note, when the curtain opened, Emmylou started looking around behind her and realized that her bass was missing. He came running out with his instrument. The second show, she opened with "Two More Bottles of Wine', and finished her segment with a Christmas number, again with Kree Harrison. Of note, she forgot the commercial break between Kree Harrison and Bobby Osborne and I was watching Eddie Stubbs try to get her attention, but she was turned the other way and the show kept rolling. Also regarding Emmylou, she read her introduction of Kree Harrison from a card. I have noticed this with several other Opry hosts, so it would be apparent to me that Pete Fisher wants to make sure that guest artists get properly introduced when on the Opry. Now, for Bobby Osborne. He did "Rocky Top" both shows, with a 2nd number on the 2nd show. Bobby was in fine voice but he has added the snare drum again to his band, with his oldest son playing it. I think the drum just takes away and adds a bad sound to "Rocky Top." That song was just fine without a snare drum being played on it. One last comment about Bobby and this is responding to the comment on Bobby doing "Rocky Top" every week. A lot of the song selection from the veterans is not their choice, but what they are being asked, or "suggested" by Opry management to do. I know several of them would love to do other material, but cannot. (Jack Greene did "There Goes My Everything" and "Statue of A Fool" each time he was on in his final years). While we may get tired of hearing "Rocky Top" each week, those in the audience love it and the song always receives one of the loudest ovations.
John Conlee opened both shows, wearing a sports coat and tie. John does a great job hosting and got the shows started on the right note. Jeannie Seely, who also appeared on Friday night, hosted a segment on the 1st show. Nothing really special out of Jeannie. She did two Christmas numbers, and actually the same two she has been doing the past several weeks. Craig Morgan was one of her guests on the 1st show and hosted a segment on the 2nd. As a host, I think he is great. Lot's of humor from him and real nice introductions. I compare his hosting style to that of Larry Gatlin. Just someone out there having fun with the other performers and with the audience. During the first show, he did a different version of "I Don't Remember Loving You", the great John Conlee song. John stood at the side of the stage and came out when the song ended. Craig said he has recorded it, so it might be out next year.
Finally, there was Jimmy Dickens. He appeared only on the first show. Came out as usual, told a few jokes which the audience loved, and did "Mountain Dew." He did not forget the words and I thought his voice was pretty good. You can tell he has lost some weight, but overall seemed in good health and good spirits. He is 94 this coming Friday.
To finish up Saturday, there was a comment made about the speed of the show, especially Emmylou's segment. I can tell you from watching, they were making a big effort to keep the first show on time and not running over. They had a sold-out crowd for the 2nd show waiting outside and with the construction on the Ryman going on, there is only one real entrance to the building and that is the side entrance if you are familiar with the building. But as far as the show, it did not feel rush and I thought the pace was ok. As far as the 2nd show, they held up the start by about ten minutes in order to get as many people in as they could before the start, and it ended about four or five minutes early. Again, from my perspective in the audience, it did not seem rushed, just the flow of the show that particular night.
Now for the Friday Night Opry and a few comments. There were three guest artists, Sara Haze, Amber Digby and Minton Sparks. There is nothing special about Sara Haze. If there was a weak spot on any of the shows, it was Sara. I am pretty sure she sang the same two songs that she did during the birthday weekend in October. Nothing special there. I had seen Amber Digby once before, hosting the Ernest Tubb Midnight Jamboree. This was the first time I had seen her on the Opry, and again, she is real country and the real deal. She is part of the "Heart of Texas" group, and if you have heard her, then you know her voice is real country. She said she has a new CD coming out in February of Osborne Brothers material. I am looking forward to that. Friday it was just her, not her entire band. Minton Sparks was a name that I did not recognize and it was her first time on the Opry. She is a story teller and a good one. She did two, about her grandmother's purse, if I remember right, and another one that I can't remember the title. I thought the first story was good, with some humor to it. Comedy and the old-style story telling is something that I think the Opry could use more of. I think Minton did enough of a good job that she will be invited back.
As far as Opry members, the three big names were Joe Diffie, Marty Stuart and Dierks Bentley, all of whom did a very nice job. It is always a pleasure to see all three on the Opry and wish they were there more often. Marty Stuart is such a great host. Lots of energy and fun times. Thanks to that final segment with Marty, the show ran over by about ten minutes, with no complaints. Just an FYI, but Marty did not mention Connie at all. Marty also had Harry Stinson, his drummer out front and center, singing "Dixie." Very nicely done. Dierks Bentley was also fine, lots of energy and he had his full band with him.
As far as the veterans, Jesse McReynolds did two instrumental numbers. Jesse is looking good and his mandolin playing is still top notch. Ray Pillow hosted the second segment, and while he is still a great singer, I have to wonder about his hosting skills. He mispronounced Amber Digby's name, and even admitted that he had just met her. I just hate that. And he was reading the introduction off a card. I just think it could be a bit more professional. I am sure many have noticed that since Jimmy C Newman and George Hamilton IV have passed away, and with Jim Ed Brown ill, we are seeing much more of Ray on the Opry and hosting segments. I just hope they are not overworking Ray!!
Bill Anderson hosted on all three shows and Bill looked and sounded very good. It is hard to believe, but once you get past Jimmy Dickens, Bill would be one of the last veteran Opry performers left from his generation. Friday night he did "Po' Folks Christmas" and "Still", while on Saturday night he did his newer song about his feelings on Christmas (I admit I forget the exact title). He received a huge ovation from both audiences on Saturday. I thought that Pete Fisher made a good decision having Bill host the final segments on Saturday and doing two songs to start out, then having Carrie and Kacey do three, with Bill finishing up and concluding the show without having to follow the ladies with another number.
Finally, there is Jean Shepard. She was on and did "Second Fiddle." She sounds good but she is pretty frail looking. She had to be assisted out to the stage and when she was finished. She did her song sitting on a stool. But again, she was energetic and the audience appreciated the effort. Next year is her 60th year as an Opry member, and discounting the stringband members from the years past, that might make her the first solo artist to make it 60 consecutive years on the Opry. That would be an achievement and I am sure she is hoping to make it.
Looking at where the Opry is at today, I thought these were three very good shows. The line-ups were solid, and there was a nice mix of younger talent and veterans. The audience appreciated the efforts by everyone and as I have already stated, it still gives me hope for the Opry.
A last note on the Opry and what people expect when they go. On Friday night, I was sitting next to two very nice ladies, I would say in their 40s. We started talking a little bit before the show and I found out they were from North Dakota and it was their first trip to Nashville or the Opry. I told them I attend many times and I thought they would enjoy the show. At intermission the one lady turned to me and asked if this was what the Opry was always like. When I asked her what she meant, she said that she couldn't believe that Joe Diffie and the others did just one or two songs. She was expecting more!! I explained the Opry to her and what the show was about and she said it was nothing like she saw when she watched the Opry on GAC and the Opry scenes on "Nashville." I did tell her that the Opry on GAC was not the true Opry, but actually was a scripted hour with just three or four performers who did do four or five songs each, while the real Opry was a radio show. They had no idea who Ray Pillow was since they had never seen him on GAC. No, I explained to her that only the young, hot stars were on television. Sadly, they ended up leaving before the show ended.
Finally, I have a facebook page that I posted pictures from Friday and Saturday night. Many of you who comment and follow the blog already follow me on facebook and I appreciate the comments. It is not all country music and the Opry and if anyone wishes to follow me on facebook, just type in Byron Fay. Make sure to get the right one!!
Thursday, December 11, 2014
Grand Ole Opry 12/12 & 12/13
It is a day later than usual, but the Grand Ole Opry has finally posted the schedule for the shows this weekend. Looking at who is scheduled, it looks like a pretty good weekend for the Opry. I plan on being in Nashville this weekend and have plans to attend all 3 of the Opry shows.
The Friday Night Opry is highlighted by Opry members Marty Stuart, Joe Diffie and Dierks Bentley. Joining them will be guest artists Amber Digby and Sara Haze, along with Minton Sparks, who will be making her Opry debut. Don't know who Minton Sparks is? I have to admit that I did not know either until I looked her up. According to her website, "Minton Sparks fuses music, poetry, and her intoxicating gift of storytelling to paint word pictures of the rural South that put you square in the middle of the people and the places she knows like the back of her hand." To say the least, she should be interesting.
Also scheduled on Friday night is Ray Pillow, who has seen a big increase in his Opry appearances and hosting duties after years of having limited appearances. Jean Shepard is also scheduled. She missed last week so let's hope she is feeling well enough to appear.
Saturday's Grand Ole Opry will feature Opry member Emmylou Harris. For Emmylou, this will be her first Opry appearance of 2014, and probably her only 2014 Opry appearance. That seems to follow her pattern of appearing sometime during the Opry's Ryman run. I find that too bad as when Emmylou joined the Opry, I really expected more out of her as I really thought that when it came to the Opry, she got it. Also scheduled is Carrie Underwood, who does get it when it comes to the Opry. It has been mentioned before that Carrie has set a standard for the newer Opry members. With her pregnancy, I would think we won't see her at the Opry as much in the coming year, but I think we can all say that is a good reason. It is also nice to see Opry member Craig Morgan scheduled.
Guest artists scheduled include Kacey Musgraves, who has made a big impact on country music in 2014. Kree Harrison and The Henningsens round out the guests.
Friday December 12
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Sara Haze; Jesse McReynolds
7:30: Ray Pillow (host); Amber Digby; Joe Diffie
Intermission
8:15: Bill Anderson (host); Jean Shepard; Minton Sparks
8:45: Marty Stuart (host); Dierks Bentley
Saturday December 13
1st show
7:00: John Conlee (host); The Henningsens (Jimmy Dickens?)
7:30: Emmylou Harris (host); Kree Harrison; Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Opry Square Dancers
8:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Kacey Musgraves; Craig Morgan
8:30: Bill Anderson (host); Carrie Underwood
2nd show
9:30: John Conlee (host); Carrie Underwood
10:00: Emmylou Harris (host); Kree Harrison; Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press
10:30: Craig Morgan (host); The Henningsens; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Bill Anderson (host); Kacey Musgraves
And now, here is the posted Grand Ole Opry line-up from 5 years ago this weekend, December 11 & 12, 2009:
Friday December 11
1st show
7:00: Mike Snider (host); Jim Ed Brown; Chuck Wicks
7:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jack Greene; Vince Gill
8:00: Steve Wariner (host); Connie Smith; Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press
8:30: Bill Anderson (host); Rascal Flatts
2nd show
9:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jimmy C Newman; Chuck Wicks
10:00: Mike Snider (host); Ray Pillow; Rascal Flatts
10:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); Connie Smith; Steve Wariner
11:00: Bill Anderson (host); Stonewall Jackson; Vince Gill
Saturday December 12
1st show
7:00: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jimmy C Newman; Trace Adkins
7:30: Mike Snider (host); Jack Greene; Nanci Griffith
8:00: Marty Stuart (host); Dale Jett & Hello Stranger; Connie Smith; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Bill Anderson (host); Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys
2nd show
9:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jim Ed Brown; Nanci Griffith
10:00: Marty Stuart (host); Stu Phillips; Dale Jett & Hello Stranger; Connie Smith
10:30: Mike Snider (host); Trace Adkins; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Bill Anderson (host); Vince Gill
Now from 10 years ago this weekend, December 10 & 11, 2004:
Friday December 10
7:30: Porter Wagoner (host); The Whites; Jack Greene; Alicia Nugent
8:00: Jim Ed Brown (host); w/Helen Cornelius; Christy Sutherland; Del McCoury Band
8:30: Jimmy C Newman (host); Stonewall Jackson; Connie Smith; Marty Stuart
9:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Osborne Brothers; Buddy Jewell
9:30: Jean Shepard (host); Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Mel McDaniel; Chely Wright
Saturday December 11
1st show
6:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); w/Helen Cornelius; Mel McDaniel; Del McCoury Band
7:00: Marty Stuart (host); Sugarland; Craig Morgan; George Jones
8:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Jan Howard; Jean Shepard; The Whites; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Billy Walker; Connie Smith; Buddy Jewell
2nd show
9:30: Jimmy C Newman (host); The Whites; George Jones
10:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Del McCoury Band; Connie Smith; Marty Stuart
10:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); w/Helen Cornelius; Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Craig Morgan; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Jean Shepard (host); Stu Phillips; Osborne Brothers; Sugarland
11:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Ray Pillow; Billy Walker; Buddy Jewell
Now from 20 years ago Saturday night, December 10, 1994:
1st show
6:30: Bill Monroe (host); Skeeter Davis
6:45: Ricky Skaggs (host); Oswald
7:00: Jimmy Dickens (host); Bill Carlisle; The Whites; Jim Ed Brown; Jimmy C Newman
7:30: 4 Guys (host); J.D. Sumner & The Stamps; Blackwood Quartet
8:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Jan Howard; Johnny Russell; Connie Smith; Melvin Sloan Dancers
8:30: Hank Snow (host); Jeannie Seely; Billy Walker; Riders In The Sky; Jimmy C Newman
2nd show
9:30: Porter Wagoner (host); J.D. Sumner & The Stamps; Blackwood Quartet
10:00: Bill Monroe (host); Riders In The Sky
10:15: Jimmy Dickens (host); Ricky Skaggs
10:30: Billy Walker (host); Roy Drusky
10:45: 4 Guys (host); Charlie Walker; Melvin Sloan Dancers
11:00: Hank Snow (host); Jeannie Seely; Jim Ed Brown; Stonewall Jackson
11:30: Johnny Russell (host); Jimmy C Newman; Mel McDaniel
Finally, from 40 years ago this weekend, Saturday December 14, 1974. What made this night so special is that early Opry star DeFord Bailey made a guest appearance.
1st show
6:30: Mrs. Grissoms
Willis Brothers (host): Truck Stop
Jim & Jesse: Paradise
Ernie Ashworth: Oh, Lonesome Me
Willis Brothers: Buying Popcorn
6:45: Rudy's
Bill Anderson (host): Everytime I Turn the Radio On
Bill Carlisle: Same Old Tale That the Crow Told Me
4 Guys: What About Me
Bill Anderson: Proof
7:00: Rudy's
Porter Wagoner (host): On A Highway Headed South
Billy Grammer: Wildwood Flower/Under the Double Eagle
Bob Luman: Let Me Make the Bright Lights Shine For You
Barbara Lea: May You Never Be Alone
Justin Tubb: Loving Arms
Porter Wagoner: Carolina Moonshiner
Billy Grammer: Whispering Hope
Porter Wagoner: Wake Up Jacob
7:30: Standard Candy
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Stoney Cooper: Shackles and Chains
Crook Brothers: Eighth of January
Oswald: Little Darling
DeFord Bailey: Pan American Blues/Ain't Gonna Rain No More/Fox Chase
Carol Lee Cooper: Forgetting About You
Roy Acuff: I Saw the Light
8:00: Martha White
Lester Flatt (host): Rollin' In My Sweet Baby's Arms
Grandpa & Ramona Jones: Jingle Bells
Connie Smith: I Got My Baby On My Mind
Stu Phillips: Let Me Love You All Over Again
Marty Stuart & Curley Seckler: Christmas Time's A'Coming
Grandpa & Ramona Jones: It Takes A Lot of Loving
Connie Smith: How Great Thou Art
Charlie Nixon: Maggie Blues
8:30: Stephens
Roy Drusky (host): Second Hand Rose
Stonewall Jackson: Don't Be Late
Mel Tillis: Heart Over Mind
Fruit Jar Drinkers: (?)
Roy Drusky: The Bitter They Are, The Harder They Fall
Stonewall Jackson: Don't Be Angry
Mel Tillis: Memory Maker/Sawmill
2nd show
9:30: Kellogg's
Bill Anderson (host): (?)
Willis Brothers: Cool Water
Jim & Jesse: Love Is A Fading Rose
Bill Anderson: City Lights
Ernie Ashworth: Honky Tonk Hardwood Floor
Mary Lou Turner: Poor Sweet Baby
Bill Anderson: Everytime I Turn the Radio On
10:00: Fender
Bob Luman (host): Kaw-Liga
Bill Carlisle: I'm Moving
Justin Tubb: Sunshine Lady
Bob Luman: Six Days on the Road
10:15: Union 76
Roy Acuff (host): Back in the Country
Billy Grammer: Somewhere My Love
Roy Acuff: Turn Your Radio On
10:30: Trailblazer
Lester Flatt (host): A Great Big Woman and A Little Biddy Bottle of Wine
Grandpa Jones: Heading South
Connie Smith: Dallas
Lester Flatt: Homestead on the Farm/Foggy Mountain Breakdown
10:45: Beech-Nut
4 Guys (host): Down By the Lazy River
Stoney Cooper: To My Mansion in the Sky
Crook Brothers: Soldier's Joy
4 Guys: Let Me Be There
11:00: Coca-Cola
Roy Drusky (host): Dixie Lily
Fruit Jar Drinkers: (?)
Mel Tillis: Life Turned Her That Way/Ruby, Don't Take Your Guns to Town
Roy Drusky: All For the Love Of A Girl/Three Hearts In A Tangle/Somewhere My Love
Sam McGee: Rollin' In My Sweet Baby's Arms
Harold Weakley: Legend In My Mind
Roy Drusky: Anymore
11:30: Elm Hill
Stonewall Jackson (host): Me and You and A Dog Named Boo
Ronnie Robbins: If We Make It Through December/If You Love Me Let Me Know
Stonewall Jackson: Don't Be Late
Stu Phillips: She Thinks I Still Care/Let Me Love You All Over Again
Stonewall Jackson: Washed My Hands In Muddy Water/Don't Be Angry/Waterloo
Finally, here is the line-up for the Tuesday Night Opry, December 16:
7:00: Jeannie Seely; The Railers
7:30: Kristian Bush; Dailey & Vincent
Intermission
8:15: Bill Anderson; Lennon & Maisy
8:45: Hunter Hayes
Enjoy the Opry this weekend!! As usual, if I hear or see anything I will have a wrap up next week.
The Friday Night Opry is highlighted by Opry members Marty Stuart, Joe Diffie and Dierks Bentley. Joining them will be guest artists Amber Digby and Sara Haze, along with Minton Sparks, who will be making her Opry debut. Don't know who Minton Sparks is? I have to admit that I did not know either until I looked her up. According to her website, "Minton Sparks fuses music, poetry, and her intoxicating gift of storytelling to paint word pictures of the rural South that put you square in the middle of the people and the places she knows like the back of her hand." To say the least, she should be interesting.
Also scheduled on Friday night is Ray Pillow, who has seen a big increase in his Opry appearances and hosting duties after years of having limited appearances. Jean Shepard is also scheduled. She missed last week so let's hope she is feeling well enough to appear.
Saturday's Grand Ole Opry will feature Opry member Emmylou Harris. For Emmylou, this will be her first Opry appearance of 2014, and probably her only 2014 Opry appearance. That seems to follow her pattern of appearing sometime during the Opry's Ryman run. I find that too bad as when Emmylou joined the Opry, I really expected more out of her as I really thought that when it came to the Opry, she got it. Also scheduled is Carrie Underwood, who does get it when it comes to the Opry. It has been mentioned before that Carrie has set a standard for the newer Opry members. With her pregnancy, I would think we won't see her at the Opry as much in the coming year, but I think we can all say that is a good reason. It is also nice to see Opry member Craig Morgan scheduled.
Guest artists scheduled include Kacey Musgraves, who has made a big impact on country music in 2014. Kree Harrison and The Henningsens round out the guests.
Friday December 12
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Sara Haze; Jesse McReynolds
7:30: Ray Pillow (host); Amber Digby; Joe Diffie
Intermission
8:15: Bill Anderson (host); Jean Shepard; Minton Sparks
8:45: Marty Stuart (host); Dierks Bentley
Saturday December 13
1st show
7:00: John Conlee (host); The Henningsens (Jimmy Dickens?)
7:30: Emmylou Harris (host); Kree Harrison; Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Opry Square Dancers
8:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Kacey Musgraves; Craig Morgan
8:30: Bill Anderson (host); Carrie Underwood
2nd show
9:30: John Conlee (host); Carrie Underwood
10:00: Emmylou Harris (host); Kree Harrison; Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press
10:30: Craig Morgan (host); The Henningsens; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Bill Anderson (host); Kacey Musgraves
And now, here is the posted Grand Ole Opry line-up from 5 years ago this weekend, December 11 & 12, 2009:
Friday December 11
1st show
7:00: Mike Snider (host); Jim Ed Brown; Chuck Wicks
7:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jack Greene; Vince Gill
8:00: Steve Wariner (host); Connie Smith; Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press
8:30: Bill Anderson (host); Rascal Flatts
2nd show
9:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jimmy C Newman; Chuck Wicks
10:00: Mike Snider (host); Ray Pillow; Rascal Flatts
10:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); Connie Smith; Steve Wariner
11:00: Bill Anderson (host); Stonewall Jackson; Vince Gill
Saturday December 12
1st show
7:00: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jimmy C Newman; Trace Adkins
7:30: Mike Snider (host); Jack Greene; Nanci Griffith
8:00: Marty Stuart (host); Dale Jett & Hello Stranger; Connie Smith; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Bill Anderson (host); Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys
2nd show
9:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jim Ed Brown; Nanci Griffith
10:00: Marty Stuart (host); Stu Phillips; Dale Jett & Hello Stranger; Connie Smith
10:30: Mike Snider (host); Trace Adkins; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Bill Anderson (host); Vince Gill
Now from 10 years ago this weekend, December 10 & 11, 2004:
Friday December 10
7:30: Porter Wagoner (host); The Whites; Jack Greene; Alicia Nugent
8:00: Jim Ed Brown (host); w/Helen Cornelius; Christy Sutherland; Del McCoury Band
8:30: Jimmy C Newman (host); Stonewall Jackson; Connie Smith; Marty Stuart
9:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Osborne Brothers; Buddy Jewell
9:30: Jean Shepard (host); Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Mel McDaniel; Chely Wright
Saturday December 11
1st show
6:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); w/Helen Cornelius; Mel McDaniel; Del McCoury Band
7:00: Marty Stuart (host); Sugarland; Craig Morgan; George Jones
8:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Jan Howard; Jean Shepard; The Whites; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Billy Walker; Connie Smith; Buddy Jewell
2nd show
9:30: Jimmy C Newman (host); The Whites; George Jones
10:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Del McCoury Band; Connie Smith; Marty Stuart
10:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); w/Helen Cornelius; Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Craig Morgan; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Jean Shepard (host); Stu Phillips; Osborne Brothers; Sugarland
11:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Ray Pillow; Billy Walker; Buddy Jewell
Now from 20 years ago Saturday night, December 10, 1994:
1st show
6:30: Bill Monroe (host); Skeeter Davis
6:45: Ricky Skaggs (host); Oswald
7:00: Jimmy Dickens (host); Bill Carlisle; The Whites; Jim Ed Brown; Jimmy C Newman
7:30: 4 Guys (host); J.D. Sumner & The Stamps; Blackwood Quartet
8:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Jan Howard; Johnny Russell; Connie Smith; Melvin Sloan Dancers
8:30: Hank Snow (host); Jeannie Seely; Billy Walker; Riders In The Sky; Jimmy C Newman
2nd show
9:30: Porter Wagoner (host); J.D. Sumner & The Stamps; Blackwood Quartet
10:00: Bill Monroe (host); Riders In The Sky
10:15: Jimmy Dickens (host); Ricky Skaggs
10:30: Billy Walker (host); Roy Drusky
10:45: 4 Guys (host); Charlie Walker; Melvin Sloan Dancers
11:00: Hank Snow (host); Jeannie Seely; Jim Ed Brown; Stonewall Jackson
11:30: Johnny Russell (host); Jimmy C Newman; Mel McDaniel
Finally, from 40 years ago this weekend, Saturday December 14, 1974. What made this night so special is that early Opry star DeFord Bailey made a guest appearance.
1st show
6:30: Mrs. Grissoms
Willis Brothers (host): Truck Stop
Jim & Jesse: Paradise
Ernie Ashworth: Oh, Lonesome Me
Willis Brothers: Buying Popcorn
6:45: Rudy's
Bill Anderson (host): Everytime I Turn the Radio On
Bill Carlisle: Same Old Tale That the Crow Told Me
4 Guys: What About Me
Bill Anderson: Proof
7:00: Rudy's
Porter Wagoner (host): On A Highway Headed South
Billy Grammer: Wildwood Flower/Under the Double Eagle
Bob Luman: Let Me Make the Bright Lights Shine For You
Barbara Lea: May You Never Be Alone
Justin Tubb: Loving Arms
Porter Wagoner: Carolina Moonshiner
Billy Grammer: Whispering Hope
Porter Wagoner: Wake Up Jacob
7:30: Standard Candy
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Stoney Cooper: Shackles and Chains
Crook Brothers: Eighth of January
Oswald: Little Darling
DeFord Bailey: Pan American Blues/Ain't Gonna Rain No More/Fox Chase
Carol Lee Cooper: Forgetting About You
Roy Acuff: I Saw the Light
8:00: Martha White
Lester Flatt (host): Rollin' In My Sweet Baby's Arms
Grandpa & Ramona Jones: Jingle Bells
Connie Smith: I Got My Baby On My Mind
Stu Phillips: Let Me Love You All Over Again
Marty Stuart & Curley Seckler: Christmas Time's A'Coming
Grandpa & Ramona Jones: It Takes A Lot of Loving
Connie Smith: How Great Thou Art
Charlie Nixon: Maggie Blues
8:30: Stephens
Roy Drusky (host): Second Hand Rose
Stonewall Jackson: Don't Be Late
Mel Tillis: Heart Over Mind
Fruit Jar Drinkers: (?)
Roy Drusky: The Bitter They Are, The Harder They Fall
Stonewall Jackson: Don't Be Angry
Mel Tillis: Memory Maker/Sawmill
2nd show
9:30: Kellogg's
Bill Anderson (host): (?)
Willis Brothers: Cool Water
Jim & Jesse: Love Is A Fading Rose
Bill Anderson: City Lights
Ernie Ashworth: Honky Tonk Hardwood Floor
Mary Lou Turner: Poor Sweet Baby
Bill Anderson: Everytime I Turn the Radio On
10:00: Fender
Bob Luman (host): Kaw-Liga
Bill Carlisle: I'm Moving
Justin Tubb: Sunshine Lady
Bob Luman: Six Days on the Road
10:15: Union 76
Roy Acuff (host): Back in the Country
Billy Grammer: Somewhere My Love
Roy Acuff: Turn Your Radio On
10:30: Trailblazer
Lester Flatt (host): A Great Big Woman and A Little Biddy Bottle of Wine
Grandpa Jones: Heading South
Connie Smith: Dallas
Lester Flatt: Homestead on the Farm/Foggy Mountain Breakdown
10:45: Beech-Nut
4 Guys (host): Down By the Lazy River
Stoney Cooper: To My Mansion in the Sky
Crook Brothers: Soldier's Joy
4 Guys: Let Me Be There
11:00: Coca-Cola
Roy Drusky (host): Dixie Lily
Fruit Jar Drinkers: (?)
Mel Tillis: Life Turned Her That Way/Ruby, Don't Take Your Guns to Town
Roy Drusky: All For the Love Of A Girl/Three Hearts In A Tangle/Somewhere My Love
Sam McGee: Rollin' In My Sweet Baby's Arms
Harold Weakley: Legend In My Mind
Roy Drusky: Anymore
11:30: Elm Hill
Stonewall Jackson (host): Me and You and A Dog Named Boo
Ronnie Robbins: If We Make It Through December/If You Love Me Let Me Know
Stonewall Jackson: Don't Be Late
Stu Phillips: She Thinks I Still Care/Let Me Love You All Over Again
Stonewall Jackson: Washed My Hands In Muddy Water/Don't Be Angry/Waterloo
Finally, here is the line-up for the Tuesday Night Opry, December 16:
7:00: Jeannie Seely; The Railers
7:30: Kristian Bush; Dailey & Vincent
Intermission
8:15: Bill Anderson; Lennon & Maisy
8:45: Hunter Hayes
Enjoy the Opry this weekend!! As usual, if I hear or see anything I will have a wrap up next week.
Wednesday, December 3, 2014
Grand Ole Opry 12/5 & 12/6
The Grand Ole Opry has posted the line-ups for the 3 shows this weekend. I am very happy to say that the Opry actually found 3 Opry members for the Grand Ole Opry on Saturday night: Bill Anderson, Mike Snider and Ray Pillow on the 1st show and Anderson, Snider and Vince Gill on the 2nd. I know it sounds like a broken record, but how can you have a show called the Grand Ole Opry with just 3 Opry members? And if that isn't enough, the 3 Opry members are hosting the first 3 segments, with no host for the final segment, which is devoted to 3 cast members from the "Nashville" television show. Maybe they are going to film and induct another "fake" Opry member for televison!! Sorry, maybe I am too harsh.
As far as the Friday Night Opry, the rounded up 6 members, with Mike Snider, Jean Shepard, Ray Pillow, Bill Anderson, Bobby Osborne and Vince Gill. That is not a bad group at all, but more could have been added.
Friday December 5
7:00: Mike Snider (host); Janelle Arthur; Jean Shepard
7:30: Ray Pillow (host); The Steeldrivers; Mandy Barnett
Intermission
8:15: Bill Anderson (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Jimmy Wayne
8:45: Vince Gill (host); Gene Watson; The Willis Clan
Saturday December 6
1st show
7:00: Bill Anderson (host); Greg Bates; (Jimmy Dickens?)
7:30: Mike Snider (host); Amanda Shires; The Henningsens
8:00: Ray Pillow (host); The Willis Clan; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Aubrey Peeples; Chaley Rose; Sam Palladio
2nd show
9:30: Bill Anderson (host); Greg Bates
10:00: Mike Snider (host); Amanda Shires; The Henningsens
10:30: Vince Gill (host); The Willis Clan; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Aubrey Peeples; Chaley Rose; Sam Palladio
Wow!!
I don't know who all listened last Saturday night, but Jimmy Dickens was on again during the first show and did "Out Behind the Barn." The was a pretty embarrassing moment when Jimmy forgot the words to the 2nd verse. He tried to make a small joke and I don't think the audience realized that he was being serious, that he couldn't remember. I kept waiting for someone to step in and help him out. He finally figured it out, but it made for bad radio. Maybe Jimmy just needs to stick to "Mountain Dew". Also, I have heard from a few folks asking about Connie Smith. All I know is that for about the last month, she has not been at the Opry and has been cancelling some concert dates. Marty Stuart has been out on the road and is scheduled for the Opry next Friday night, so hope it is nothing too serious. Speaking of next Friday night, I will be in Nashville next weekend and plan to attend all 3 Opry shows.
And now, here is the posted Grand Ole Opry line-up from 5 years ago this weekend, December 4 and 5, 2009:
Friday December 4
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Jimmy C Newman; Jack Greene; Del McCoury Band
7:30: Ricky Skaggs (host); John Conlee; The Whites
8:00: Bill Anderson (host); Mike Snider; Mark Wills
8:30: Marty Stuart (host); Jan Howard; Jim Ed Brown; The Quebe Sisters Band
Saturday December 5
1st show
7:00: John Conlee (host); Jimmy C Newman; Del McCoury Band
7:30: Mike Snider (host); Jean Shepard; Jim Ed Brown; Jamie O'Neal
8:00: Ricky Skaggs (host); Connie Smith; The Whites; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Bill Anderson (host); Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Trisha Yearwood
2nd show
9:30: John Conlee (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Trisha Yearwood
10:00: Mike Snider (host); Jeannie Seely; Del McCoury Band
10:30: Ricky Skaggs (host); Jean Shepard; The Whites; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Bill Anderson (host); Jamie O'Neal; Connie Smith
Now from 10 years ago, the weekend of December 3 & 4, 2004:
Friday December 3
7:30: Porter Wagoner (host); Mel McDaniel; Jennifer Hanson
8:00: Ricky Skaggs (host); Jean Shepard; The Whites
8:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Osborne Brothers; Shelly Fairchild
9:00: Bill Anderson (host); Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; George Hamilton IV; Buddy Jewell
9:30: Hal Ketchum (host); Jimmy C Newman; Ralph Stanley
Saturday December 4
1st show
6:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); The Whites; Jimmy C Newman; Connie Smith
7:00: Ricky Skaggs (host); Buddy Jewell; Blue Country; Sawyer Brown
8:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Billy Walker; Jean Shepard; Ralph Stanley; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Bill Anderson (host); Jeannie Seely; Jim Ed Brown w/Helen Cornelius; Radney Foster
2nd show
9:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Connie Smith; Osborne Brothers; Blue Country
10:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Jan Howard; Mel McDaniel; Ralph Stanley
10:30: Ricky Skaggs (host); The Whites; Sawyer Brown; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Bill Anderson (host); Jean Shepard; Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Buddy Jewell
11:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); w/Helen Cornelius; George Hamilton IV; Radney Foster
Now from 20 years ago Saturday night, December 3, 1994:
1st show
6:30: Grandpa Jones (host); Bill Carlisle
6:45: Billy Walker (host); Skeeter Davis
7:00: Jimmy Dickens (host); Connie Smith; Jimmy C Newman
7:30: Johnny Russell (host); Chonda Pierce; Garth Brooks
8:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Jan Howard; Hank Locklin; Osborne Brothers; Melvin Sloan Dancers
8:30: 4 Guys (host); Stonewall Jackson; Mark Collie
2nd show
9:30: Johnny Russell (host); Oswald; Garth Brooks
10:00: Grandpa Jones (host); Ray Pillow
10:15: Jimmy Dickens (host); Roy Drusky
10:30: Billy Walker (host); Riders In The Sky
10:45: Jimmy C Newman (host); Jan Howard; Melvin Sloan Dancers
11:00: The Whites (host); Connie Smith; Hank Locklin
11:30: 4 Guys (host); Jeannie Seely; Mark Collie
Finally, from 40 years ago this Saturday night, December 7, 1974:
1st show
6:30: Willis Brothers (host); Justin Tubb; Ernie Ashworth
6:45: George Morgan (host); Marion Worth; Jim & Jesse
7:00: Roy Drusky (host); Bill Carlisle; Mel Tillis
7:30: Roy Acuff (host); Stoney Cooper; Crook Brothers; Howdy Forrester
8:00: George Jones (host); Tammy Wynette; 4 Guys; Lonzo & Oscar; Patsy Sledd
8:30: Hank Snow (host); Dottie West; Stu Phillips; Fruit Jar Drinkers; Jeanne Pruett
2nd show
9:30: George Morgan (host); Willis Brothers; Lonzo & Oscar; Marion Worth; Ernie Ashworth
10:00: Roy Acuff (host); Jim & Jesse
10:15: Roy Drusky (host); Mel Tillis
10:30: George Jones (host); Tammy Wynette; Bill Carlisle
10:45: Stoney Cooper (host); 4 Guys; Crook Brothers; Carolee Cooper
11:00: Hank Snow (host); Dottie West; Fruit Jar Drinkers; Sam McGee
11:30: Justin Tubb (host); Jeanne Pruett; Stu Phillips; Ronnie Robbins
(I posted these Opry line-ups from the past 40 years so that everyone can see how the line-ups have varied over the years and compare what is at the Opry this weekend with past weekends).
For this week's feature line-up, I go to Saturday December 5, 1964. I picked this date because it was the following day, Sunday December 6 that it was announced in the Nashville Tennessean's headline read, "Opry Drops 12 Top Stars."
"Twelve top country and western music stars," the story read, "will not appear on the Grand Ole Opry in 1965, and have been prohibited from using the Opry name in their outside billings, it was learned yesterday. Another entertainer, long-time favorite Minnie Pearl, has been given a leave of absence from the show for the coming year, but will continue to use the Opry billing in her present contracts, a WSM spokesman said."
Dismissed from the Opry roster were George Morgan, Don Gibson, Billy Grammer, Johnny Wright, Kitty Wells, the Jordanaires (background singers on Elvis Presley's records and concert dates), Faron Young, Ferlin Husky, Chet Atkins, Justin Tubb, Stonewall Jackson, and Ray Price. Opry officials, after using the policy only minimally before, had insisted on strict adherence to a rule that said Opry performers had to appear on twenty-six shows in a year to be retained on the roster. WSM public relations director Bill Williams tried to put the best face on it, insisting, "Nobody is mad at anybody. It's just that periodically we have to take stock. It's just a routine thing."
Irving Waugh, somewhat removed from the Opry in his capacity as general manager of the WSM television station, nevertheless thought the announcement was ill advised. He viewed the action as an "antagonism" of the country music community by WSM president Jack DeWitt.
Looking back on it, the "Purge of '64" might have been a monumental public relations goof. Within a day of the release of the original story, Opry manager Ott Devine had to remove Chet Atkin's name from the list of the original twelve. His name should not have been included, Devine said, because "Chet has not been officially connected with the Opry for many years." That admission suggested to some that the entire incident reflected adversely on the quality of Opry managment.
Money is what really generated the hassle. Faron Young remembered, "When they insisted on the twenty-six week thing, I put a pen to it and figured it out. I was gonna lose $180,000 a year to work the Opry twenty-six weeks out of the year." Percentages paid by the artists to the WSM Artists' Service Bureau (make that read "booking agency") also were in contention. Johnny Wright, Kitty Wells's husband explained, "They booked some of our dates, and then some of the dates were booked by our personal managers and booking agents. There were charging us fifteen percent on the dates they booked, and then if they didn't book a date you still had to pay them five percent of the dates that you booked yourself. Some of the artists stopped paying the five percent, a lot of them. But Kitty and I paid it right up to the very last, and I told Ott Devine, 'Ott, I don't think it's fair for us to pay that and some of them not paying it. Unless you get everybody to pay it, then I'm not gonna pay it.' They didn't fire anyone. We just quit because we didn't wanna pay the five percent."
Quit or fired? It didn't make any difference; the public perception was that their favorites had been summarily dismissed. If anything good came out of the incident, it was the realization in the city, and in some quarters, for the first time, that the Grand Ole Opry was really important to Nashville.
On Tuesday, December 8, the Nashville Tennessean ran an editorial under the heading, "Opry Has Duty of Protection." It said, "The Opry has been, and continues to be, the nucleus of Nashville's $40 million music industry. There is hardly a successful music enterprise in the city that does not owe its orgin and its longevity to the Opry. Thus, it seems the Opry has a responsibility to compel observance of reasonable restrictions for its own protection and for the protection of the rest of the music industry in Nashville. Most of the thousands of people who line up at the Opry House every Friday and Saturday night have traveled long distances to see in person the stars they have come to love by radio. It must be a disappointment for these fans to arrive at the Opry on this one big night for them and find that their favorite stars have found a more profitable audience in some other state. Opry Manager Ott Devine says the 11 released stars will be missed. And they will be. But there is a feeling that such a loss would be more keenly felt if the stars had not already been missed too often at the Opry."
With that, the Tennessean put the onus squarely on the artists, perhaps unfairly. But a lesson was learned, expressed best in a bit of old country philosophy, "Don't try to fix what aint' broke."
Over time, many of those dismissed from the Opry 50 years ago this weekend would return as Opry members, however at reduced appearances. And those who did not rejoin the cast officially, were still welcomed back as guests.
I know it has been mentioned many times before what the reaction would be if Steve Buchanan and Pete Fisher were to drop those artists who fail to make the ten appearances per year that they are requesting of the members. To put it simply, if that rule had been in effect this year, the Opry would lose 30 of its members. In other words, almost half of the current cast. The Opry would not be able to survive the bad publicity that would follow. The key is to induct members who will honor the word they give and actually appear at least ten times per year, or something close to that number. But as we know, Opry membership doesn't really mean that much anymore. In fact, of the guest artists that the Orpy invites, almost 20 have appeared more than ten times. In other words, many more times then the majority of Opry members.
Here is the Opry running order from 50 years ago this weekend, Saturday December 5, 1964. Even without the 11 Opry members dismissed, it was still a pretty good show.
7:30: Luzianne
Porter Wagoner (host): Come On In
Jean Shepard: He Plays the Bongo; I Play the Banjo
Sonny James: (?)
Del Wood: Cattle Call
Porter Wagoner: A Satisfied Mind
Ernest Ashworth: Just One Time
Jean Shepard: Foggy Mountain Top
Sonny James: (?)
Porter Wagoner: Misery Loves Company
8:00: Martha White
Flatt & Scruggs (host): (?)
Skeeter Davis: (?)
Carter Family: (?)
Curly Fox: (?)
Flatt & Scruggs: (?)
Crook Brothers: Lafayette
Skeeter Davis: (?)
Cousin Jake: (?)
Flatt & Scruggs: (?)
8:30: Stephens
Roy Acuff (host): Plastic Heart
Wilburn Brothers: Somebody's Back In Town
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper: Rachel's Guitar
Archie Campbell: Comedy
Roy Acuff: No Letter In the Mail
Jimmy Day: Beautiful Dreamer
Oswald: Roll On, Buddy, Roll On
Wilburn Brothers: I Don't Care
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper: Matthew 24
Roy Acuff: Farther Along
9:00: Pet Milk
Bill Anderson (host): (?)
Margie Bowes: (?)
George Hamilton IV: (?)
Lonzo & Oscar: Gotta Find Julie
Bill Anderson: (?)
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Hop Light, Ladies
Margie Bowes: (?)
George Hamilton IV: (?)
Bill Anderson: (?)
9:30: Kellogg's
Roy Drusky (host): Peel Me A Nanner
Bill Monroe: Christmas Time's A'Coming
Marion Worth: Shake Me, I Rattle
Willis Brothers: Good Night, Cincinnati
Roy Drusky: Summer, Winter, Spring and Fall
Stringbean: Run Little Rabbit, Run
Bill Monroe: I'm One of God's Sheep
Marion Worth: Kentucky Waltz
Roy Drusky: You Never Cried When You Were Mine
10:00: Schick
Porter Wagoner (host): Will You Be Loving Another Man
Carter Family: (?)
Skeeter Davis: (?)
Porter Wagoner: I Thought I Heard You Calling My Name
10:15: SSS Tonic
Flatt & Scruggs (host): (?)
Ernest Ashworth: You Can't Pick A Rose In December
Archie Campbell: Most Richly Blessed
Flatt & Scruggs: (?)
10:30: Harvey's
Sonny James (host): (?)
Jean Shepard: (?)
Del Wood: Night Train to Memphis
Sonny James: (?)
10:45: Newport
Roy Acuff (host): Little Pal
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper: (?)
Crook Brothers: Ida Red
Roy Acuff: The Great Speckled Bird
11:00: Coca-Cola
Wilburn Brothers (host): I'm Gonna Tie One On Tonight
Roy Drusky: Second Hand Rose
Bill Anderson: (?)
Lonzo & Oscar: Country Music Time
Wilburn Brothers: I Guess I'm Crazy
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Stoney Point
Roy Drusky: All For the Love Of A Girl
Sam & Kirk McGee: Snowdrop
Wilburn Brothers: I've Got that Old Time Religion
11:30: Lava
Marty Robbins (host): Beggin't to You
Bill Monroe: Salt Creek
Curly Fox: Bully of the Town
Willis Brothers: Give Me 40 Acres
Marty Robbins: Ruby Ann
Marion Worth: Tomorrow Never Comes
Stringbean: Keep My Skillet Good and Greasy
Bill Monroe: Mule Skinner Blues
Marty Robbins: Don't Worry
Yes, the Opry got along just fine. Enjoy the Opry this weekend!!
As far as the Friday Night Opry, the rounded up 6 members, with Mike Snider, Jean Shepard, Ray Pillow, Bill Anderson, Bobby Osborne and Vince Gill. That is not a bad group at all, but more could have been added.
Friday December 5
7:00: Mike Snider (host); Janelle Arthur; Jean Shepard
7:30: Ray Pillow (host); The Steeldrivers; Mandy Barnett
Intermission
8:15: Bill Anderson (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Jimmy Wayne
8:45: Vince Gill (host); Gene Watson; The Willis Clan
Saturday December 6
1st show
7:00: Bill Anderson (host); Greg Bates; (Jimmy Dickens?)
7:30: Mike Snider (host); Amanda Shires; The Henningsens
8:00: Ray Pillow (host); The Willis Clan; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Aubrey Peeples; Chaley Rose; Sam Palladio
2nd show
9:30: Bill Anderson (host); Greg Bates
10:00: Mike Snider (host); Amanda Shires; The Henningsens
10:30: Vince Gill (host); The Willis Clan; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Aubrey Peeples; Chaley Rose; Sam Palladio
Wow!!
I don't know who all listened last Saturday night, but Jimmy Dickens was on again during the first show and did "Out Behind the Barn." The was a pretty embarrassing moment when Jimmy forgot the words to the 2nd verse. He tried to make a small joke and I don't think the audience realized that he was being serious, that he couldn't remember. I kept waiting for someone to step in and help him out. He finally figured it out, but it made for bad radio. Maybe Jimmy just needs to stick to "Mountain Dew". Also, I have heard from a few folks asking about Connie Smith. All I know is that for about the last month, she has not been at the Opry and has been cancelling some concert dates. Marty Stuart has been out on the road and is scheduled for the Opry next Friday night, so hope it is nothing too serious. Speaking of next Friday night, I will be in Nashville next weekend and plan to attend all 3 Opry shows.
And now, here is the posted Grand Ole Opry line-up from 5 years ago this weekend, December 4 and 5, 2009:
Friday December 4
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Jimmy C Newman; Jack Greene; Del McCoury Band
7:30: Ricky Skaggs (host); John Conlee; The Whites
8:00: Bill Anderson (host); Mike Snider; Mark Wills
8:30: Marty Stuart (host); Jan Howard; Jim Ed Brown; The Quebe Sisters Band
Saturday December 5
1st show
7:00: John Conlee (host); Jimmy C Newman; Del McCoury Band
7:30: Mike Snider (host); Jean Shepard; Jim Ed Brown; Jamie O'Neal
8:00: Ricky Skaggs (host); Connie Smith; The Whites; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Bill Anderson (host); Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Trisha Yearwood
2nd show
9:30: John Conlee (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Trisha Yearwood
10:00: Mike Snider (host); Jeannie Seely; Del McCoury Band
10:30: Ricky Skaggs (host); Jean Shepard; The Whites; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Bill Anderson (host); Jamie O'Neal; Connie Smith
Now from 10 years ago, the weekend of December 3 & 4, 2004:
Friday December 3
7:30: Porter Wagoner (host); Mel McDaniel; Jennifer Hanson
8:00: Ricky Skaggs (host); Jean Shepard; The Whites
8:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Osborne Brothers; Shelly Fairchild
9:00: Bill Anderson (host); Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; George Hamilton IV; Buddy Jewell
9:30: Hal Ketchum (host); Jimmy C Newman; Ralph Stanley
Saturday December 4
1st show
6:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); The Whites; Jimmy C Newman; Connie Smith
7:00: Ricky Skaggs (host); Buddy Jewell; Blue Country; Sawyer Brown
8:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Billy Walker; Jean Shepard; Ralph Stanley; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Bill Anderson (host); Jeannie Seely; Jim Ed Brown w/Helen Cornelius; Radney Foster
2nd show
9:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Connie Smith; Osborne Brothers; Blue Country
10:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Jan Howard; Mel McDaniel; Ralph Stanley
10:30: Ricky Skaggs (host); The Whites; Sawyer Brown; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Bill Anderson (host); Jean Shepard; Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Buddy Jewell
11:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); w/Helen Cornelius; George Hamilton IV; Radney Foster
Now from 20 years ago Saturday night, December 3, 1994:
1st show
6:30: Grandpa Jones (host); Bill Carlisle
6:45: Billy Walker (host); Skeeter Davis
7:00: Jimmy Dickens (host); Connie Smith; Jimmy C Newman
7:30: Johnny Russell (host); Chonda Pierce; Garth Brooks
8:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Jan Howard; Hank Locklin; Osborne Brothers; Melvin Sloan Dancers
8:30: 4 Guys (host); Stonewall Jackson; Mark Collie
2nd show
9:30: Johnny Russell (host); Oswald; Garth Brooks
10:00: Grandpa Jones (host); Ray Pillow
10:15: Jimmy Dickens (host); Roy Drusky
10:30: Billy Walker (host); Riders In The Sky
10:45: Jimmy C Newman (host); Jan Howard; Melvin Sloan Dancers
11:00: The Whites (host); Connie Smith; Hank Locklin
11:30: 4 Guys (host); Jeannie Seely; Mark Collie
Finally, from 40 years ago this Saturday night, December 7, 1974:
1st show
6:30: Willis Brothers (host); Justin Tubb; Ernie Ashworth
6:45: George Morgan (host); Marion Worth; Jim & Jesse
7:00: Roy Drusky (host); Bill Carlisle; Mel Tillis
7:30: Roy Acuff (host); Stoney Cooper; Crook Brothers; Howdy Forrester
8:00: George Jones (host); Tammy Wynette; 4 Guys; Lonzo & Oscar; Patsy Sledd
8:30: Hank Snow (host); Dottie West; Stu Phillips; Fruit Jar Drinkers; Jeanne Pruett
2nd show
9:30: George Morgan (host); Willis Brothers; Lonzo & Oscar; Marion Worth; Ernie Ashworth
10:00: Roy Acuff (host); Jim & Jesse
10:15: Roy Drusky (host); Mel Tillis
10:30: George Jones (host); Tammy Wynette; Bill Carlisle
10:45: Stoney Cooper (host); 4 Guys; Crook Brothers; Carolee Cooper
11:00: Hank Snow (host); Dottie West; Fruit Jar Drinkers; Sam McGee
11:30: Justin Tubb (host); Jeanne Pruett; Stu Phillips; Ronnie Robbins
(I posted these Opry line-ups from the past 40 years so that everyone can see how the line-ups have varied over the years and compare what is at the Opry this weekend with past weekends).
For this week's feature line-up, I go to Saturday December 5, 1964. I picked this date because it was the following day, Sunday December 6 that it was announced in the Nashville Tennessean's headline read, "Opry Drops 12 Top Stars."
"Twelve top country and western music stars," the story read, "will not appear on the Grand Ole Opry in 1965, and have been prohibited from using the Opry name in their outside billings, it was learned yesterday. Another entertainer, long-time favorite Minnie Pearl, has been given a leave of absence from the show for the coming year, but will continue to use the Opry billing in her present contracts, a WSM spokesman said."
Dismissed from the Opry roster were George Morgan, Don Gibson, Billy Grammer, Johnny Wright, Kitty Wells, the Jordanaires (background singers on Elvis Presley's records and concert dates), Faron Young, Ferlin Husky, Chet Atkins, Justin Tubb, Stonewall Jackson, and Ray Price. Opry officials, after using the policy only minimally before, had insisted on strict adherence to a rule that said Opry performers had to appear on twenty-six shows in a year to be retained on the roster. WSM public relations director Bill Williams tried to put the best face on it, insisting, "Nobody is mad at anybody. It's just that periodically we have to take stock. It's just a routine thing."
Irving Waugh, somewhat removed from the Opry in his capacity as general manager of the WSM television station, nevertheless thought the announcement was ill advised. He viewed the action as an "antagonism" of the country music community by WSM president Jack DeWitt.
Looking back on it, the "Purge of '64" might have been a monumental public relations goof. Within a day of the release of the original story, Opry manager Ott Devine had to remove Chet Atkin's name from the list of the original twelve. His name should not have been included, Devine said, because "Chet has not been officially connected with the Opry for many years." That admission suggested to some that the entire incident reflected adversely on the quality of Opry managment.
Money is what really generated the hassle. Faron Young remembered, "When they insisted on the twenty-six week thing, I put a pen to it and figured it out. I was gonna lose $180,000 a year to work the Opry twenty-six weeks out of the year." Percentages paid by the artists to the WSM Artists' Service Bureau (make that read "booking agency") also were in contention. Johnny Wright, Kitty Wells's husband explained, "They booked some of our dates, and then some of the dates were booked by our personal managers and booking agents. There were charging us fifteen percent on the dates they booked, and then if they didn't book a date you still had to pay them five percent of the dates that you booked yourself. Some of the artists stopped paying the five percent, a lot of them. But Kitty and I paid it right up to the very last, and I told Ott Devine, 'Ott, I don't think it's fair for us to pay that and some of them not paying it. Unless you get everybody to pay it, then I'm not gonna pay it.' They didn't fire anyone. We just quit because we didn't wanna pay the five percent."
Quit or fired? It didn't make any difference; the public perception was that their favorites had been summarily dismissed. If anything good came out of the incident, it was the realization in the city, and in some quarters, for the first time, that the Grand Ole Opry was really important to Nashville.
On Tuesday, December 8, the Nashville Tennessean ran an editorial under the heading, "Opry Has Duty of Protection." It said, "The Opry has been, and continues to be, the nucleus of Nashville's $40 million music industry. There is hardly a successful music enterprise in the city that does not owe its orgin and its longevity to the Opry. Thus, it seems the Opry has a responsibility to compel observance of reasonable restrictions for its own protection and for the protection of the rest of the music industry in Nashville. Most of the thousands of people who line up at the Opry House every Friday and Saturday night have traveled long distances to see in person the stars they have come to love by radio. It must be a disappointment for these fans to arrive at the Opry on this one big night for them and find that their favorite stars have found a more profitable audience in some other state. Opry Manager Ott Devine says the 11 released stars will be missed. And they will be. But there is a feeling that such a loss would be more keenly felt if the stars had not already been missed too often at the Opry."
With that, the Tennessean put the onus squarely on the artists, perhaps unfairly. But a lesson was learned, expressed best in a bit of old country philosophy, "Don't try to fix what aint' broke."
Over time, many of those dismissed from the Opry 50 years ago this weekend would return as Opry members, however at reduced appearances. And those who did not rejoin the cast officially, were still welcomed back as guests.
I know it has been mentioned many times before what the reaction would be if Steve Buchanan and Pete Fisher were to drop those artists who fail to make the ten appearances per year that they are requesting of the members. To put it simply, if that rule had been in effect this year, the Opry would lose 30 of its members. In other words, almost half of the current cast. The Opry would not be able to survive the bad publicity that would follow. The key is to induct members who will honor the word they give and actually appear at least ten times per year, or something close to that number. But as we know, Opry membership doesn't really mean that much anymore. In fact, of the guest artists that the Orpy invites, almost 20 have appeared more than ten times. In other words, many more times then the majority of Opry members.
Here is the Opry running order from 50 years ago this weekend, Saturday December 5, 1964. Even without the 11 Opry members dismissed, it was still a pretty good show.
7:30: Luzianne
Porter Wagoner (host): Come On In
Jean Shepard: He Plays the Bongo; I Play the Banjo
Sonny James: (?)
Del Wood: Cattle Call
Porter Wagoner: A Satisfied Mind
Ernest Ashworth: Just One Time
Jean Shepard: Foggy Mountain Top
Sonny James: (?)
Porter Wagoner: Misery Loves Company
8:00: Martha White
Flatt & Scruggs (host): (?)
Skeeter Davis: (?)
Carter Family: (?)
Curly Fox: (?)
Flatt & Scruggs: (?)
Crook Brothers: Lafayette
Skeeter Davis: (?)
Cousin Jake: (?)
Flatt & Scruggs: (?)
8:30: Stephens
Roy Acuff (host): Plastic Heart
Wilburn Brothers: Somebody's Back In Town
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper: Rachel's Guitar
Archie Campbell: Comedy
Roy Acuff: No Letter In the Mail
Jimmy Day: Beautiful Dreamer
Oswald: Roll On, Buddy, Roll On
Wilburn Brothers: I Don't Care
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper: Matthew 24
Roy Acuff: Farther Along
9:00: Pet Milk
Bill Anderson (host): (?)
Margie Bowes: (?)
George Hamilton IV: (?)
Lonzo & Oscar: Gotta Find Julie
Bill Anderson: (?)
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Hop Light, Ladies
Margie Bowes: (?)
George Hamilton IV: (?)
Bill Anderson: (?)
9:30: Kellogg's
Roy Drusky (host): Peel Me A Nanner
Bill Monroe: Christmas Time's A'Coming
Marion Worth: Shake Me, I Rattle
Willis Brothers: Good Night, Cincinnati
Roy Drusky: Summer, Winter, Spring and Fall
Stringbean: Run Little Rabbit, Run
Bill Monroe: I'm One of God's Sheep
Marion Worth: Kentucky Waltz
Roy Drusky: You Never Cried When You Were Mine
10:00: Schick
Porter Wagoner (host): Will You Be Loving Another Man
Carter Family: (?)
Skeeter Davis: (?)
Porter Wagoner: I Thought I Heard You Calling My Name
10:15: SSS Tonic
Flatt & Scruggs (host): (?)
Ernest Ashworth: You Can't Pick A Rose In December
Archie Campbell: Most Richly Blessed
Flatt & Scruggs: (?)
10:30: Harvey's
Sonny James (host): (?)
Jean Shepard: (?)
Del Wood: Night Train to Memphis
Sonny James: (?)
10:45: Newport
Roy Acuff (host): Little Pal
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper: (?)
Crook Brothers: Ida Red
Roy Acuff: The Great Speckled Bird
11:00: Coca-Cola
Wilburn Brothers (host): I'm Gonna Tie One On Tonight
Roy Drusky: Second Hand Rose
Bill Anderson: (?)
Lonzo & Oscar: Country Music Time
Wilburn Brothers: I Guess I'm Crazy
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Stoney Point
Roy Drusky: All For the Love Of A Girl
Sam & Kirk McGee: Snowdrop
Wilburn Brothers: I've Got that Old Time Religion
11:30: Lava
Marty Robbins (host): Beggin't to You
Bill Monroe: Salt Creek
Curly Fox: Bully of the Town
Willis Brothers: Give Me 40 Acres
Marty Robbins: Ruby Ann
Marion Worth: Tomorrow Never Comes
Stringbean: Keep My Skillet Good and Greasy
Bill Monroe: Mule Skinner Blues
Marty Robbins: Don't Worry
Yes, the Opry got along just fine. Enjoy the Opry this weekend!!
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