Before getting to the line-ups for the three Opry shows this weekend, congratulations once again as two of the Opry's members have been elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame. With the edition of Charlie Daniels and Randy Travis, that brings to 18 the number of Opry members who are Hall of Fame members. And who are those 18? Besides Charlie and Randy, you have Bill Anderson, Garth Brooks, Roy Clark, Vince Gill, Tom T Hall, Emmylou Harris, Loretta Lynn, Barbara Mandrell, Reba McEntire, Ronnie Milsap, Oak Ridge Boys, Dolly Parton, Charley Pride, Jean Shepard, Connie Smith and Mel Tillis. Not a bad group.
Now as far as the Grand Ole Opry this weekend, let's first look at the Friday Night Opry and it is great to see Opry member Ray Pillow on the schedule. This will be the 1st Opry appearance in 2016 for Ray, who on April 30 will be celebrating 50 years as a member of the Opry. Other Opry members scheduled include Jeannie Seely, Mike Snider, Pam Tillis, Bobby Osborne and two Hall of Fame members, Connie Smith and Vince Gill. As far as guest artists, it is a pleasure to see Mickey Gilley once again scheduled for the Opry. He will be joined by Elizabeth Cook, Striking Matches, Craig Wayne Boyd and Aubrey Peeples.
Saturday's Grand Ole Opry will feature Jeannie Seely, Mike Snider, Lorrie Morgan, Bill Anderson and Josh Turner for both shows, while Terri Clark is schedule for the first show and, like last weekend, Connie Smith is scheduled for just the 2nd show. Additionally, Jesse McReynolds is scheduled but only for one show, which will be the first one. This is similar to last weekend when Bobby Osborne was only scheduled for the 2nd Saturday show. Among the guest artists for both shows, there is Ray Scott, Jimmy Wayne, Joe Mullins & The Radio Ramblers and Restless Heart.
Overall, two pretty nice Opry shows this weekend.
Friday April 1
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Elizabeth Cook; Mike Snider
7:30: Pam Tillis (host); Ray Pillow; Striking Matches
Intermission
8:15: Connie Smith (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Craig Wayne Boyd
8:45: Vince Gill (host); Aubrey Peeples; Mickey Gilley
Saturday April 2
1st show
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Ray Scott; Mike Snider
7:30: Terri Clark (host); Jimmy Wayne; Joe Mullins & The Radio Ramblers
8:00: Lorrie Morgan (host); Jesse McReynolds; Restless Heart; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Bill Anderson (host); Josh Turner
2nd show
9:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Ray Scott; Mike Snider
10:00: Connie Smith (host); Jimmy Wayne; Joe Mullins & The Radio Ramblers
10:30: Lorrie Morgan (host); Restless Heart; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Bill Anderson (host); Josh Turner
That comes out to 12 acts on Friday night, of which 7 are Opry members, and 11 acts for the 1st show on Saturday night, with 7 Opry members, and 10 acts for the 2nd show, with 6 Opry members.
And now, here is the posted Grand Ole Opry line-up from five years ago, the weekend of April 1 & 2, 2011:
Friday April 1
7:00: Mike Snider (host); Jimmy C Newman; Jimmy Wayne
7:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Jim Ed Brown; Mel Tillis
Intermission
8:15: Bill Anderson (host); Jan Howard; Jack Greene; Kellie Pickler
8:45: Larry Gatlin & The Gatlin Brothers (host); Connie Smith; Dailey & Vincent
Saturday April 2
1st show
7:00: Jim Ed Brown (host); Jimmy Wayne; The Whites
7:30: John Conlee (host); Jesse McReynolds; Henry Cho
8:00: Larry Gatlin & The Gatlin Brothers (host); Jean Shepard; Mike Snider; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Bill Anderson (host); Riders In The Sky; Darryl Worley
2nd show
9:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Jimmy Wayne; The Whites
10:00: John Conlee (host); Jean Shepard; Henry Cho
10:30: Larry Gatlin & The Gatlin Brothers (host); Jack Greene; Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Bill Anderson (host); Riders In The Sky; Darryl Worley
And now from ten years ago, the weekend of March 31 & April 1, 2006:
Friday March 31
8:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Connie Smith; Billy Walker; Jake Owen
8:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Mel McDaniel; Jean Shepard; Pinkeye
9:00: Bill Anderson (host); Jimmy C Newman; The Whites; Roy Clark
9:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Jack Greene; Joe Nichols
Saturday April 1
1st show
6:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); The Whites; Jimmy C Newman; Jeannie Seely
7:00: Diamond Rio (host); Jeff Bates; Julie Roberts; Trent Tomlinson; Rodney Foster
8:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Jean Shepard; Jim Ed Brown; Eric Church; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Roy Clark (host); Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Alison Brown Band
2nd show
9:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); The Whites; Jean Shepard; Julie Roberts
10:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Jan Howard; Mel McDaniel; Jeff Bates
10:30: Diamond Rio (host); Jack Greene; Radney Foster; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Roy Clark (host); Connie Smith; Trent Tomlinson
11:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); Eric Church; Alison Brown Band
Finally, from fifteen years ago, the weekend of March 30 & 31, 2001:
Friday March 30
7:30: Porter Wagoner (host); Jeannie Seely; Bill Carlisle; Craig Morgan
8:00: Ricky Skaggs (host); The Whites; Ernie Ashworth; Riders In The Sky
8:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jeanne Pruett; T. Bubba Bechtol; Rhonda Vincent
9:00: Bill Anderson (host); Jan Howard; Adam Harvey; Sherrie Austin
9:30: Jimmy C Newman (host); Osborne Brothers; Mandy Barnett; Jim Ed Brown
Saturday March 31
1st show
6:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Riders In The Sky; Bill Carlisle; Mike Snider
7:00: Porter Wagoner (host); The Whites; Billy Walker; Jeanne Pruett; Jim Ed Brown
7:30: Jimmy C Newman (host); Sherrie Austin; T. Bubba Bechtol; Joe Diffie
8:00: Bill Anderson (host); Rhonda Vincent; The Derailers; Opry Square Dance Band; Melvin Sloan Dancers
8:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Del Reeves; Jack Greene; Ricky Skaggs
2nd show
9:30: Porter Wagoner (host); Jeannie Seely; The Whites; Joe Diffie
10:00: Jimmy Dickens (host); Del Reeves; Jack Greene; Sherrie Austin
10:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); Rhonda Vincent; Billy Walker; Opry Square Dance Band; Melvin Sloan Dancers
11:00: Bill Anderson (host); T. Bubba Bechtol; The Derailers; Ricky Skaggs
11:30: Mike Snider (host); Charlie Walker; Ray Pillow; Riders In The Sky
Now for a couple more Reunion show line-ups. The first one goes back 38 years, to Saturday April 1, 1978:
6:00: Vietti
Jimmy C Newman (host): Jambalaya
Wilma Lee Cooper: Come Walk With Me
Lonzo & Oscar: Crawdad Song
Charlie Louvin: Warm, Warm Woman
Zeke Clements: Live & Learn/Somebody's Been Beating My Time/Why Should I Cry Over You/Just A Little Lovin'/Hope on the Water
Jimmy C Newman: Diggy Liggy Lo
6:30: Mrs Grissoms
Stonewall Jackson (host): Don't Be Angry
Sid Harkreader: Mockingbird Breakdown
Stonewall Jackson: Waterloo
6:45: Rudy's
Jack Greene (host): You Love Takes Care of Me
Jeannie Seely: Since I Met 'Cha, Baby
Curly Fox: The Old Gray Mule
Jack Greene & Jeannie Seely: Sing for the Good Times
7:00: Shoney's
Archie Campbell (host): Make Friends
Justin Tubb: What's Wrong With the Way That We're Doing it Now
Pee Wee King: Deck of Cards/Tennessee Waltz
Billy Grammer: Bonaparte's Retreat
7:30: Standard Candy
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball/Tennessee Central No 9/Sunshine Special
Minnie Pearl: Careless Love
Alcyone Beasley: My Wild Irish Rose
Jack Shook: Along the Santa Fe Trail
Alcyone Beasley & Jack Shook: When the Desert Sun Goes Down
Crook Brothers/Stoney Mountain Cloggers: Eighth of January
Roy Acuff: I'll Fly Away
8:00: Martha White
Porter Wagoner (host): Big Wind's A Comin'
Del Reeves: When My Angel Turns Into A Devil
Guy Willis: Boots & Saddle
4 Guys: You've Got Me Runnin'
Porter Wagoner: Katy Did/Swing Low Sweet Chariot
8:30: Stephens
Hank Snow (host): In the Misty Moonlight
Billy Walker: San Antonio Rose/You Gave Me a Mountain
Paul Howard: Stay A Little Longer
Wilburn Brothers: Trouble's Back in Town
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Nubbin' Ridge
Hank Snow: It Kinda Reminds Me of Me
2nd show
9:30: Kellogg's
Del Reeves (host): Two Dollars in the Jukebox/A Dime at a Time
Jimmy C Newman: Colinda
Wilma Lee Cooper: Bucket to the South
Lonzo & Oscar: No Relief in Sight
Charlie Louvin: If I Could Hear My Mother Pray Again
Ernie Ashworth: You Can't Pick A Rose in December
Del Reeves: When My Angel Turns Into A Devil
10:00: Fender
Jack Greene (host): Your Love Takes Good Care of Me
Jeannie Seely: Who Needs You
Del Wood: There's A Big Wheel
Jack Greene: There Goes My Everything
10:15: Union 76
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Pee Wee King: Tennessee Waltz/Beer Barrel Polka
Roy Acuff: I'm So Lonesome I Could Cry
10:30: Trailblazer
Porter Wagoner (host): Tennessee Saturday Night
Billy Grammer: I Still Love You As I Did Yesterday
Stonewall Jackson: Angry Words
Porter Wagoner: I've Enjoyed As Much of This As I Can Stand/On a Highway Headed South
10:45: Beech-Nut
Archie Campbell (host): Make Friends
Justin Tubb: What's Wrong With the Way That We're Doing it Now
Crook Brothers w/Sid Harkreader/Stoney Mountain Cloggers: Gray Eagle
11:00: Coca-Cola
Hank Snow (host): I'm Moving On
4 Guys: When Will I Be Loved/The Wurlitzer Prize
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Katy Hill
Guy Willis: Blue Eyes Crying In the Rain
Kirk McGee: Victory Rag/Freight Train
Hank Snow: Paper Roses
11:30: Elm Hill
Billy Walker (host): Sing Me A Love Song to Baby
Stu Phillips: Let Me Love You All Over Again/Crystal Chandeliers
Wilburn Brothers: It Looks Like the Suns Gonna Shine/The Light House
Billy Walker: A Legend in My Mind
Finally, here is the running order for the Reunion show ten years later, Saturday April 2, 1988:
1st show
6:30: Mrs Grissoms
Grandpa Jones (host): Cindy
Zeke Clements: Nobody Loves Me
Clyde Moody: I Know What it Means to Be Lonesome
Alisa Jones: Marmaduke's Hornpipe
6:45: Rudy's
Porter Wagoner (host): Dooley
Connie Smith: You've Got Me Right Where You Want Me
Porter Wagoner: Your Old Love Letters/Y' All Come
7:00: Shoney's
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Pee Wee King: Deck of Cards
Jean Shepard: Why Don't You Haul Off & Love Me/Second Fiddle
George Jones: The Race is On/Who's Gonna Fill Their Shoes/I Put A Golden Band on the Right Left Hand
Roy Acuff (host): Somebody Touched Me
7:30: Standard Candy
Ricky Skaggs (host): I've Got A New Heartache
Kitty Wells: Thank You For the Roses
Johnny Wright: Ashes of Love
Mel McDaniel: Stand Up/Stand on It
Ricky Skaggs: Why I'm Walkin'
8:00: Martha White
Bill Monroe (host): Uncle Pen
Skeeter Davis: I Forgot More Than You'll Ever Know
Jack Greene: Walkin' On New Grass
Ferlin Husky: Country Music is Here to Stay/Gone
Crook Brothers/Stoney Mountain Cloggers: Black Mountain Rag
Bill Monroe: My Florida Sunshine
8:30: Music Valley Merchants
Hank Snow (host): Bummin' Around
Osborne Brothers: Old Flames
Del Reeves: Two Dollars in the Jukebox/A Dime at a Time/Looking at the World Through A Windshield
Billy Walker: It Was Love and Not the Nails
Curly Fox: Milkcow Blues
Hank Snow: Easter Parade
2nd show
9:30: Dollar General
Porter Wagoner (host): Tennessee Border
4 Guys: I'm Bound for Higher Ground
Roy Drusky: Have I Stayed Away Too Long
Jeannie Seely: One Bad Old Memory
Mel McDaniel: Stand Up
Porter Wagoner: Carroll County Accident
Glenda Faye Kniphfer: Bill Cheatham
10:00: Little Debbie
Grandpa Jones (host): Banjo Sam
Kitty Wells: It Wasn't God Who Made Honky-Tonk Angels
Johnny Wright & Family: Stop the World And Let Me Off
Alisa Jones: Golden Slippers
10:15: Sunbeam
Roy Acuff (host): Meeting In the Air
George Jones: The Corvette Song
George Jones & Shelby Lynn: Amazing Grace/I'm So Lonesome I Could Cry
Dan Kelly: Sally Goodin
10:30: Pet Milk
Bill Monroe (host): Love, Come Home
Jean Shepard: Slippin' Away
Bill Monroe: It's Me Again Lord
10:45: B.C. Powder
Del Reeves (host): Be Glad
Bill Carlisle: Have A Drink On Me
Crook Brothers/Stoney Mountain Cloggers: Sugar in the Goard
Del Reeves: The Only Girl I Can't Forget
11:00: Coca-Cola
Hank Snow (host): Fraulein
Ray Pillow: Days When You Were Still In Love With Me
Charlie Louvin: When I Stop Dreaming
Justin Tubb: Lonesome 7-7203
David Houston: In the Garden
Hank Snow: A Tribute to Mother
11:30: Creamette
Charlie Walker (host): Right or Wrong
Jan Howard: When I Dream
Curly Fox: The Old Gray Mule
Osborne Brothers: If Should Wander Back Tonight/Shackles & Chains
Charlie Walker: Take Me Back to Tulsa
As you compare the various reunion shows you will notice a few things. First, for the most part, the old-timers performed only on the first show. There were exceptions, notably Pee Wee King and Curly Fox, who seemed to show up every year and did both shows. Second, you can see the drop off over the years as the old-timers passed away or became too ill to come back. By the late 1980s, there were not many left.
And last but not least, here is the line-up for the Tuesday Night Opry, April 5:
7:00: Connie Smith; Michael Ray
7:30: Riders In The Sky; Jason Crabb
Intermission
8:15: John Conlee; Charles Esten
8:45: Del McCoury Band; Chris Janson
Enjoy the Opry this weekend!!!
Nationally recognized independent Grand Ole Opry historian Byron Fay offers news and comments regarding country music's premier show.
Thursday, March 31, 2016
Tuesday, March 29, 2016
Randy Travis, Charlie Daniels and Fred Foster Elected to Country Music Hall of Fame
It was announced this morning that Randy Travis, Charlie Daniels and Fred Foster have been elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame. All three are well deserving of the honor as each has had an outstanding career in country music.
Fred Foster has been instrumental in the recording industry for over 50 years and has been instrumental in the careers of Kris Kristofferson and Roy Orbison, in addition to dozens of others. He was the founder of Monument Records, which was the starting point for many country music artists.
Charlie Daniels was the choice that surprised me. While he certainly has had a Hall of Fame career, his name never really came up in the discussion prior to the announcement. I find it hard to believe that Charlie is 79 and still heavily touring. As he said, Jimmy Dickens is his hero and he wants to continue working as long as he can. While Charlie has been part of the Southern Outlaw segment of country music, there is no doubt that his heart and soul are based in Nashville.
I am very glad that Randy Travis is receiving the recognition that he deserves. If you watched the announcement this morning, then you know it was a very emotional moment. Randy physically looked good but was basically unable to communicate other then saying thanks. His wife, and I forget her name, have a very eloquent and well received speech. She represented Randy well.
I know there are those who are disappointed that their choices and favorites did not get elected. It is tough when only one gets in each year per category. I would think that Randy getting in opens the door for others such as Ricky Skaggs, Tanya Tucker, Crystal Gayle and others from that generation. And Charlie getting in should help Hank Williams, Jr., among others. The big loser today, if there is one, would be the fans of Dottie West. Again his year, there was a Facebook campaign urging the voters to elect Dottie. But as in the past, the voters looked elsewhere. Perhaps her day will come, but as we know and as history has shown, those who have passed away have less of a chance of getting elected as each year goes by.
One other note about today: Yes, Fred Foster spilled the beans in his speech when he revealed the names of Charlie Daniels and Randy Travis. I am sure it wasn't intended as those elected are coached not to say anything. But he is 85, so I am sure he just had a moment where he forgot. It did take some of the surprise out of the announcement for Charlie and Randy, but Brenda Lee handled it well and I am sure Fred feels as bad as anyone. Except for that one moment, the day went off without a hitch.
Congratulations again to Randy Travis, Charlie Daniels and Fred Foster on their election to the Country Music Hall of Fame.
Fred Foster has been instrumental in the recording industry for over 50 years and has been instrumental in the careers of Kris Kristofferson and Roy Orbison, in addition to dozens of others. He was the founder of Monument Records, which was the starting point for many country music artists.
Charlie Daniels was the choice that surprised me. While he certainly has had a Hall of Fame career, his name never really came up in the discussion prior to the announcement. I find it hard to believe that Charlie is 79 and still heavily touring. As he said, Jimmy Dickens is his hero and he wants to continue working as long as he can. While Charlie has been part of the Southern Outlaw segment of country music, there is no doubt that his heart and soul are based in Nashville.
I am very glad that Randy Travis is receiving the recognition that he deserves. If you watched the announcement this morning, then you know it was a very emotional moment. Randy physically looked good but was basically unable to communicate other then saying thanks. His wife, and I forget her name, have a very eloquent and well received speech. She represented Randy well.
I know there are those who are disappointed that their choices and favorites did not get elected. It is tough when only one gets in each year per category. I would think that Randy getting in opens the door for others such as Ricky Skaggs, Tanya Tucker, Crystal Gayle and others from that generation. And Charlie getting in should help Hank Williams, Jr., among others. The big loser today, if there is one, would be the fans of Dottie West. Again his year, there was a Facebook campaign urging the voters to elect Dottie. But as in the past, the voters looked elsewhere. Perhaps her day will come, but as we know and as history has shown, those who have passed away have less of a chance of getting elected as each year goes by.
One other note about today: Yes, Fred Foster spilled the beans in his speech when he revealed the names of Charlie Daniels and Randy Travis. I am sure it wasn't intended as those elected are coached not to say anything. But he is 85, so I am sure he just had a moment where he forgot. It did take some of the surprise out of the announcement for Charlie and Randy, but Brenda Lee handled it well and I am sure Fred feels as bad as anyone. Except for that one moment, the day went off without a hitch.
Congratulations again to Randy Travis, Charlie Daniels and Fred Foster on their election to the Country Music Hall of Fame.
Thursday, March 24, 2016
Grand Ole Opry 3/25 & 3/26
The Grand Ole Opry has posted the line-ups for the three shows this weekend. Yes, there are three as the Opry will be going with two Saturday night shows between now and the end of April.
The highlight this weekend will be Loretta Lynn, as this 50+ year Opry member, and Country Music Hall of Famer, is scheduled for both shows on Saturday night. Joining for both shows will be Opry members Mike Snider, John Conlee, Larry Gatlin and The Gatlin Brothers, Riders In The Sky and The Whites. Appearing on just the first show will be Jeannie Seely, while Connie Smith and Bobby Osborne are set for the 2nd show. As far as the Friday Night Opry, members scheduled include Jeannie Seely, Mike Snider, Riders In The Sky, Connie Smith, John Conlee, Larry Gatlin and The Gatlin Brothers and Jesse McReynolds.
As far as guest artists for Friday night, the list includes JT Hodges, Flatt Lonesome, Lindsay Ell and Mo Pitney. Lindsay and Mo will be appearing in support of the new EP, Opry 9.0: Discoveries from the Circle, Volume II. They will also be signing copies in the Opry Shop after the show. Oh, there is one more guest scheduled for Friday night and that is Bobby Bones and The Raging Idiots. For those who do not know, Bobby Bones is the host of a nationally syndicated morning show. He is in my market and I have heard him a time or two, and while he is ok, he is just not my style. Now as far as The Raging Idiots, they are actually a country group that tours and has opened for some pretty big acts, not doubt in support of the radio show. From what I can tell, The Raging Idiots is actually his show producer Eddie Garcia and a band. They specialize in comedy songs.
Guest artists on Saturday, all scheduled for both shows, are Love and Theft, Ashley Campbell, Parker Milsap and Cole Swindell. Love and Theft are frequent Opry guests and always do a great job. Ashley Campbell, daughter of Glen Campbell, will be making a return Opry appearance. Parker Milsap is an emerging Americana Music Association artist and has opened for groups such as Old Crow Medicine Show. He is touring in support of his new album, "The Very Last Day" and will be making several Nashville appearances this weekend.
Friday March 25
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); JT Hodges; Mike Snider
7:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Connie Smith; Flatt Lonesome
Intermission
8:15: John Conlee (host); Lindsay Ell; Bobby Bones And The Raging Idiots
8:45: Larry Gatlin & The Gatlin Brothers (host); Jesse McReynolds; Mo Pitney
Saturday March 26
1st show
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Love and Theft; Mike Snider
7:30: John Conlee (host); Ashley Campbell; Parker Milsap
8:00: Larry Gatlin & The Gatlin Brothers (host); Cole Swindell; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Riders In The Sky (host); The Whites; Loretta Lynn
2nd show
9:30: John Conlee (host); Mike Snider; Loretta Lynn
10:00: Connie Smith (host); Love and Theft; Ashley Campbell
10:30: Larry Gatlin & The Gatlin Brothers (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Parker Milsap; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Riders In The Sky (host); The Whites; Cole Swindell
And now, here is the posted Grand Ole Opry line-up from five years ago, the weekend of March 25 & 26, 2011:
Friday March 25
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Jimmy C Newman; Craig Campbell
7:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); Ray Pillow; Mandy Barnett
Intermission
8:15: Pam Tillis (host); The Whites; Dale Ann Bradley
8:45: Riders In The Sky (host); Sarah Darling; Diamond Rio
Saturday March 26
1st show
7:00: Jim Ed Brown (host); Jeannie Seely; Mike Snider
7:30: Pam Tillis (host); Lorrie Morgan
8:00: Riders In The Sky (host); Jan Howard; Tommy Shaw; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Bill Anderson (host); Carrie Underwood
2nd show
9:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Jim Ed Brown; Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press
10:00: Lorrie Morgan (host); Pam Tillis
10:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Jesse McReynolds; Tommy Shaw; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Bill Anderson (host); Carrie Underwood
Now from ten years ago, the weekend of March 24 & 25, 2006:
Friday March 24
8:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Riders In The Sky; Jean Shepard; Rodney Atkins
8:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Connie Smith; The Greencards
9:00: Bill Anderson (host); Jan Howard; The Whites; Mountain Heart
9:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); Gene Watson; Marty Stuart
Saturday March 25
1st show
6:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); The Whites; Erika Jo
7:00: Jean Shepard (host); Jimmy C Newman; Matt Jenkins; Larry Sparks
7:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Jack Greene; Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Scotty Emerick
8:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Connie Smith; Billy Walker; Catherine Britt; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Bill Anderson (host); Mel McDaniel; Josh Gracin
2nd show
9:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); The Whites; Jimmy C Newman; Erika Jo
10:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Jack Greene; Matt Jenkins; Larry Sparks
10:30: Jean Shepard (host); Charlie Louvin; Scotty Emerick; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Bill Anderson (host); Connie Smith; Josh Gracin
11:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Mel McDaniel; Catherine Britt
Finally, from fifteen years ago, the weekend of March 23 & 24, 2001:
Friday March 23
7:30: Porter Wagoner (host); Jim Ed Brown; Stonewall Jackson; Bill Carlisle; Wylie & The Wild West
8:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Del Reeves; The Whites; Mel McDaniel
8:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jeanne Pruett; T. Bubba Bechtol; Ricky Skaggs
9:00: Roy Clark (host); Con Hunley; Mike Snider; Pam Tillis
9:30: John Conlee (host); Jim & Jesse; Matt King; Ralph Stanley
Saturday March 24
1st show
6:30: John Conlee (host); Jim Ed Brown; Bill Carlisle; The Whites
7:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Jimmy C Newman; Osborne Brothers; Mel McDaniel
7:30: Roy Clark (host); Martina McBride; Pam Tillis
8:00: Ricky Skaggs (host); Matt King; Mike Snider; Opry Square Dance Band; Melvin Sloan Dancers
8:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Wylie & The Wild West; T. Bubba Bechtol; Vince Gill
2nd show
9:30: Porter Wagoner (host); Roy Clark; Pam Tillis; Vince Gill
10:00: Jimmy Dickens (host); Osborne Brothers; Wylie & The Wild West; John Conlee
10:30: Ricky Skaggs (host); Charlie Louvin; Jimmy C Newman; Mel McDaniel; Opry Square Dance Band; Melvin Sloan Dancers
11:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Del Reeves; Martina McBride
11:30: Mike Snider (host); Charlie Walker; Stu Phillips; Matt King
And now back to a classic Grand Ole Opry show from 45 years ago, Saturday March 27, 1971. It was on this night that Jan Howard officially became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Jan had already spent years on the Opry as she was part of Bill Anderson's road show and was his duet partner. So every time Bill did the Opry, Jan was on also. After the duet act ended and Jan left Bill's show, she continued to guest on the Opry, so often in fact, that management thought that she was already a member. When one night Jan informed them that she was not, they corrected the error and immediately Jan was given Opry membership. Jan has not been on the Opry since late last year as she suffered a back injury and was recuperating. Hopefully she can be back at the Opry soon.
Here is the running order from Saturday March 27, 1971, the night Jan Howard officially became an Opry member:
1st show
6:30: Mrs Grissoms
Billy Walker (host): I Taught Her Everything She Knows
Ray Pillow: Grazin' In Greener Pastures
Del Wood: Are You From Dixie
Billy Walker: How Great Thou Art
6:45: Rudy's
Jack Greene (host): There's A Whole Lot About A Woman A Man Don't Know
Jeannie Seely: Please Be My New Love
Jack Greene & Jeannie Seely: Wish I Didn't Have to Miss You
Jack Greene: There Goes My Everything
7:00: Luzianne
Bill Monroe (host): My Little Georgia Rose
Earl Scruggs Revue: Loraderojosp III Breakdown
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper: Each Season Changes You
Ernie Ashworth: Jesus Is a Soul Man
James William Monroe: Come With Me Up Happiness Hill
Bill Carlisle: Too Old to Cut the Mustard
Earl Scruggs Revue: Foggy Mountain Top
Wilma Lee Cooper: The Legend of the Dogwood Tree
7:30: Standard Candy
Bill Anderson (host): Wild Weekend
Grandpa Jones: Mountain Dew
Jan Howard: Evil On Your Mind
George Morgan: For the Good Times
Bill Anderson: Always Remember
Crook Brothers: Black Mountain Rag
Grandpa Jones: Fair & Tender Ladies
Bill Anderson & Jan Howard: Someday We'll Be Together
8:00: Martha White
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Loretta Lynn: I Wanna Be Free
Tex Ritter: The Men In My Little Girl's Life
Willis Brothers: Woman's Liberation
Lonzo & Oscar: Crawdad Song
8:30: Stephens
Porter Wagoner (host): The Carroll County Accident
Dolly Parton: Coming For to Carry Me Home
Stringbean: Hot Corn; Cold Corn
Tom T Hall: Ballad of Forty Dollars
Porter Wagoner: The Last One to Touch Me
Hank Locklin: She's As Close As I Can Get
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Walking In My Sleep
Porter Wagoner & Dolly Parton: Better Move It on Home
2nd show
9:30: Kellogg's
Bill Anderson (host): You Can Change My World By Changing Your Mind
Willis Brothers: For the Good Times
Jan Howard: Were You There
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper: Nobody's Darling But Mine
Ray Pillow: Working Man Blues
Bill Anderson: I Love You Drops
10:00: Fender
Bill Monroe (host): Little Joe
Earl Scruggs Revue: Bugle Call Rag
Bill Carlisle: I'm Moving
Del Wood: Are You From Dixie
10:15: Union 76
Billy Walker (host): When A Man Loves A Woman
Grandpa Jones: Dooley
Ernie Ashworth: Jesus Is A Soul Man
Billy Walker: Make the World Go Away
10:30: Trailblazer
Roy Acuff (host): I Wonder Where You Are Tonight
Jack Greene: There's A Whole Lot About A Woman A Man Don't Know
Jeannie Seely: Don't Touch Me
Roy Acuff: The Great Speckled Bird
10:45: Beech-Nut
Porter Wagoner (host): Big Wind
Dolly Parton: Joshua
Stringbean: Lonesome Road Blues
Crook Brothers: Arkansas Traveler
Porter Wagoner & Dolly Parton: Better Move It On Home
11:00: Coca-Cola
Tex Ritter (host): Have I Told You Lately That I Love You
Loretta Lynn: Coal Miner's Daughter
Hank Locklin: Country Hall of Fame
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Instrumental
Tex Ritter: High Noon
Loretta Lynn: I Wanna Be Free
Sam McGee: San Antonio Rose
11:30: Elm Hill
Marty Robbins (host): Devil Woman
Lonzo & Oscar: There's A Whole in the Bottom of the Sea
Ronnie Robbins: Put Your Hand in the Hand/Today I Started Loving You Again
Marty Robbins: I Walk Alone/Don't Worry/A Heart Full of Love/Long Gone Lonesome Blues
Marty Robbins & Ronnie Robbins: It Finally Happened
Congratulations to Jan Howard for 45 years of Opry membership and it's too bad that she is not scheduled for the Opry this weekend. It would have been nice to have her on stage and the Opry anniversary mentioned.
I hope everyone enjoys the Opry this weekend!!!!
The highlight this weekend will be Loretta Lynn, as this 50+ year Opry member, and Country Music Hall of Famer, is scheduled for both shows on Saturday night. Joining for both shows will be Opry members Mike Snider, John Conlee, Larry Gatlin and The Gatlin Brothers, Riders In The Sky and The Whites. Appearing on just the first show will be Jeannie Seely, while Connie Smith and Bobby Osborne are set for the 2nd show. As far as the Friday Night Opry, members scheduled include Jeannie Seely, Mike Snider, Riders In The Sky, Connie Smith, John Conlee, Larry Gatlin and The Gatlin Brothers and Jesse McReynolds.
As far as guest artists for Friday night, the list includes JT Hodges, Flatt Lonesome, Lindsay Ell and Mo Pitney. Lindsay and Mo will be appearing in support of the new EP, Opry 9.0: Discoveries from the Circle, Volume II. They will also be signing copies in the Opry Shop after the show. Oh, there is one more guest scheduled for Friday night and that is Bobby Bones and The Raging Idiots. For those who do not know, Bobby Bones is the host of a nationally syndicated morning show. He is in my market and I have heard him a time or two, and while he is ok, he is just not my style. Now as far as The Raging Idiots, they are actually a country group that tours and has opened for some pretty big acts, not doubt in support of the radio show. From what I can tell, The Raging Idiots is actually his show producer Eddie Garcia and a band. They specialize in comedy songs.
Guest artists on Saturday, all scheduled for both shows, are Love and Theft, Ashley Campbell, Parker Milsap and Cole Swindell. Love and Theft are frequent Opry guests and always do a great job. Ashley Campbell, daughter of Glen Campbell, will be making a return Opry appearance. Parker Milsap is an emerging Americana Music Association artist and has opened for groups such as Old Crow Medicine Show. He is touring in support of his new album, "The Very Last Day" and will be making several Nashville appearances this weekend.
Friday March 25
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); JT Hodges; Mike Snider
7:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Connie Smith; Flatt Lonesome
Intermission
8:15: John Conlee (host); Lindsay Ell; Bobby Bones And The Raging Idiots
8:45: Larry Gatlin & The Gatlin Brothers (host); Jesse McReynolds; Mo Pitney
Saturday March 26
1st show
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Love and Theft; Mike Snider
7:30: John Conlee (host); Ashley Campbell; Parker Milsap
8:00: Larry Gatlin & The Gatlin Brothers (host); Cole Swindell; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Riders In The Sky (host); The Whites; Loretta Lynn
2nd show
9:30: John Conlee (host); Mike Snider; Loretta Lynn
10:00: Connie Smith (host); Love and Theft; Ashley Campbell
10:30: Larry Gatlin & The Gatlin Brothers (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Parker Milsap; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Riders In The Sky (host); The Whites; Cole Swindell
And now, here is the posted Grand Ole Opry line-up from five years ago, the weekend of March 25 & 26, 2011:
Friday March 25
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Jimmy C Newman; Craig Campbell
7:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); Ray Pillow; Mandy Barnett
Intermission
8:15: Pam Tillis (host); The Whites; Dale Ann Bradley
8:45: Riders In The Sky (host); Sarah Darling; Diamond Rio
Saturday March 26
1st show
7:00: Jim Ed Brown (host); Jeannie Seely; Mike Snider
7:30: Pam Tillis (host); Lorrie Morgan
8:00: Riders In The Sky (host); Jan Howard; Tommy Shaw; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Bill Anderson (host); Carrie Underwood
2nd show
9:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Jim Ed Brown; Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press
10:00: Lorrie Morgan (host); Pam Tillis
10:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Jesse McReynolds; Tommy Shaw; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Bill Anderson (host); Carrie Underwood
Now from ten years ago, the weekend of March 24 & 25, 2006:
Friday March 24
8:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Riders In The Sky; Jean Shepard; Rodney Atkins
8:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Connie Smith; The Greencards
9:00: Bill Anderson (host); Jan Howard; The Whites; Mountain Heart
9:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); Gene Watson; Marty Stuart
Saturday March 25
1st show
6:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); The Whites; Erika Jo
7:00: Jean Shepard (host); Jimmy C Newman; Matt Jenkins; Larry Sparks
7:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Jack Greene; Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Scotty Emerick
8:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Connie Smith; Billy Walker; Catherine Britt; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Bill Anderson (host); Mel McDaniel; Josh Gracin
2nd show
9:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); The Whites; Jimmy C Newman; Erika Jo
10:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Jack Greene; Matt Jenkins; Larry Sparks
10:30: Jean Shepard (host); Charlie Louvin; Scotty Emerick; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Bill Anderson (host); Connie Smith; Josh Gracin
11:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Mel McDaniel; Catherine Britt
Finally, from fifteen years ago, the weekend of March 23 & 24, 2001:
Friday March 23
7:30: Porter Wagoner (host); Jim Ed Brown; Stonewall Jackson; Bill Carlisle; Wylie & The Wild West
8:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Del Reeves; The Whites; Mel McDaniel
8:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jeanne Pruett; T. Bubba Bechtol; Ricky Skaggs
9:00: Roy Clark (host); Con Hunley; Mike Snider; Pam Tillis
9:30: John Conlee (host); Jim & Jesse; Matt King; Ralph Stanley
Saturday March 24
1st show
6:30: John Conlee (host); Jim Ed Brown; Bill Carlisle; The Whites
7:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Jimmy C Newman; Osborne Brothers; Mel McDaniel
7:30: Roy Clark (host); Martina McBride; Pam Tillis
8:00: Ricky Skaggs (host); Matt King; Mike Snider; Opry Square Dance Band; Melvin Sloan Dancers
8:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Wylie & The Wild West; T. Bubba Bechtol; Vince Gill
2nd show
9:30: Porter Wagoner (host); Roy Clark; Pam Tillis; Vince Gill
10:00: Jimmy Dickens (host); Osborne Brothers; Wylie & The Wild West; John Conlee
10:30: Ricky Skaggs (host); Charlie Louvin; Jimmy C Newman; Mel McDaniel; Opry Square Dance Band; Melvin Sloan Dancers
11:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Del Reeves; Martina McBride
11:30: Mike Snider (host); Charlie Walker; Stu Phillips; Matt King
And now back to a classic Grand Ole Opry show from 45 years ago, Saturday March 27, 1971. It was on this night that Jan Howard officially became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Jan had already spent years on the Opry as she was part of Bill Anderson's road show and was his duet partner. So every time Bill did the Opry, Jan was on also. After the duet act ended and Jan left Bill's show, she continued to guest on the Opry, so often in fact, that management thought that she was already a member. When one night Jan informed them that she was not, they corrected the error and immediately Jan was given Opry membership. Jan has not been on the Opry since late last year as she suffered a back injury and was recuperating. Hopefully she can be back at the Opry soon.
Here is the running order from Saturday March 27, 1971, the night Jan Howard officially became an Opry member:
1st show
6:30: Mrs Grissoms
Billy Walker (host): I Taught Her Everything She Knows
Ray Pillow: Grazin' In Greener Pastures
Del Wood: Are You From Dixie
Billy Walker: How Great Thou Art
6:45: Rudy's
Jack Greene (host): There's A Whole Lot About A Woman A Man Don't Know
Jeannie Seely: Please Be My New Love
Jack Greene & Jeannie Seely: Wish I Didn't Have to Miss You
Jack Greene: There Goes My Everything
7:00: Luzianne
Bill Monroe (host): My Little Georgia Rose
Earl Scruggs Revue: Loraderojosp III Breakdown
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper: Each Season Changes You
Ernie Ashworth: Jesus Is a Soul Man
James William Monroe: Come With Me Up Happiness Hill
Bill Carlisle: Too Old to Cut the Mustard
Earl Scruggs Revue: Foggy Mountain Top
Wilma Lee Cooper: The Legend of the Dogwood Tree
7:30: Standard Candy
Bill Anderson (host): Wild Weekend
Grandpa Jones: Mountain Dew
Jan Howard: Evil On Your Mind
George Morgan: For the Good Times
Bill Anderson: Always Remember
Crook Brothers: Black Mountain Rag
Grandpa Jones: Fair & Tender Ladies
Bill Anderson & Jan Howard: Someday We'll Be Together
8:00: Martha White
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Loretta Lynn: I Wanna Be Free
Tex Ritter: The Men In My Little Girl's Life
Willis Brothers: Woman's Liberation
Lonzo & Oscar: Crawdad Song
8:30: Stephens
Porter Wagoner (host): The Carroll County Accident
Dolly Parton: Coming For to Carry Me Home
Stringbean: Hot Corn; Cold Corn
Tom T Hall: Ballad of Forty Dollars
Porter Wagoner: The Last One to Touch Me
Hank Locklin: She's As Close As I Can Get
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Walking In My Sleep
Porter Wagoner & Dolly Parton: Better Move It on Home
2nd show
9:30: Kellogg's
Bill Anderson (host): You Can Change My World By Changing Your Mind
Willis Brothers: For the Good Times
Jan Howard: Were You There
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper: Nobody's Darling But Mine
Ray Pillow: Working Man Blues
Bill Anderson: I Love You Drops
10:00: Fender
Bill Monroe (host): Little Joe
Earl Scruggs Revue: Bugle Call Rag
Bill Carlisle: I'm Moving
Del Wood: Are You From Dixie
10:15: Union 76
Billy Walker (host): When A Man Loves A Woman
Grandpa Jones: Dooley
Ernie Ashworth: Jesus Is A Soul Man
Billy Walker: Make the World Go Away
10:30: Trailblazer
Roy Acuff (host): I Wonder Where You Are Tonight
Jack Greene: There's A Whole Lot About A Woman A Man Don't Know
Jeannie Seely: Don't Touch Me
Roy Acuff: The Great Speckled Bird
10:45: Beech-Nut
Porter Wagoner (host): Big Wind
Dolly Parton: Joshua
Stringbean: Lonesome Road Blues
Crook Brothers: Arkansas Traveler
Porter Wagoner & Dolly Parton: Better Move It On Home
11:00: Coca-Cola
Tex Ritter (host): Have I Told You Lately That I Love You
Loretta Lynn: Coal Miner's Daughter
Hank Locklin: Country Hall of Fame
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Instrumental
Tex Ritter: High Noon
Loretta Lynn: I Wanna Be Free
Sam McGee: San Antonio Rose
11:30: Elm Hill
Marty Robbins (host): Devil Woman
Lonzo & Oscar: There's A Whole in the Bottom of the Sea
Ronnie Robbins: Put Your Hand in the Hand/Today I Started Loving You Again
Marty Robbins: I Walk Alone/Don't Worry/A Heart Full of Love/Long Gone Lonesome Blues
Marty Robbins & Ronnie Robbins: It Finally Happened
Congratulations to Jan Howard for 45 years of Opry membership and it's too bad that she is not scheduled for the Opry this weekend. It would have been nice to have her on stage and the Opry anniversary mentioned.
I hope everyone enjoys the Opry this weekend!!!!
Tuesday, March 22, 2016
Tuesday Night Opry 3/22 & Opry Country Classics 3/24
The Tuesday Night Opry scheduled for tonight has a big hole in the schedule as Rascal Flatts was scheduled for the final segment. However, they have cancelled due to illness. Here is the line-up for tonight as it stands this morning:
7:00: Larry Gatlin & The Gatlin Brothers; Pam Tillis
7:30: Craig Campbell; Darius Rucker
Intermission
8:15: Del McCoury Band; Charlie Daniels Band
8:45: To Be Announced
A very solid show even without Rascal Flatts. And all but one are Opry members.
Thursday night also begins the spring run of Opry Country Classic shows, which are held at the Ryman Auditorium. Here is the line-up for the show this week:
Host: Larry Gatlin
Spotlight Artist: Ray Stevens
Also Appearing: The Gatlin Brothers; Janelle Arthur; Craig Wayne Boyd; Jeannie Seely.
7:00: Larry Gatlin & The Gatlin Brothers; Pam Tillis
7:30: Craig Campbell; Darius Rucker
Intermission
8:15: Del McCoury Band; Charlie Daniels Band
8:45: To Be Announced
A very solid show even without Rascal Flatts. And all but one are Opry members.
Thursday night also begins the spring run of Opry Country Classic shows, which are held at the Ryman Auditorium. Here is the line-up for the show this week:
Host: Larry Gatlin
Spotlight Artist: Ray Stevens
Also Appearing: The Gatlin Brothers; Janelle Arthur; Craig Wayne Boyd; Jeannie Seely.
Thursday, March 17, 2016
Grand Ole Opry 3/18 & 3/19
Hopefully everyone survived Britney, actually the entire Spears family, from this past weeks Tuesday Night Opry. Actually it was a nice surprise for Jamie Lynn to have her siblings there for her Opry performance. Now that we have covered that, let's look at this week's Grand Ole Opry line-up.
The Friday Night Opry will feature Opry members Jeannie Seely, Mike Snider, Riders In The Sky, Connie Smith, Bobby Osborne, John Conlee, and the featured attraction on Friday, Trace Adkins. Jeannie, Mike, and the Riders will be back on Saturday night, joined by The Whites, Jesse McReynolds, who cancelled out last weekend, and Bill Anderson.
As far as guest artists this weekend, Friday night will feature frequent Opry guest Darryl Worley, along with Waterloo Revival, The Gibson Brothers, William Michael Morgan, and Charles Kelley. Charles is one of the founding members of Lady Antebellum, who have played the Opry many times. Lady A is currently on a break from recording and touring, so Charles is working on his solo career. He recently released his debut single, "The Driver" which features Opry member Dierks Bentley. He also has been working on his song writing.
Saturday night guests include Michael Ray, no stronger to the Opry stage, along with Carly Pearce, T. Graham Brown, The Grascals, Charles Esten and Steve Moakler. For Steve, this will be his Opry debut. He has several albums out and he has written a number of songs and can currently be heard on various Satellite stations.
Friday March 18
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Darryl Worley; Mike Snider
7:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Waterloo Revival; The Gibson Brothers
Intermission
8:15: Connie Smith (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Charles Kelley
8:45: John Conlee (host); William Michael Morgan; Trace Adkins
Saturday March 19
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Michael Ray; The Whites
7:30: Mike Snider (host); Carly Pearce; T. Graham Brown
Intermission
8:15: Riders In The Sky (host); Jesse McReynolds; Steve Moakler; Opry Square Dancers
8:45: Bill Anderson (host); The Grascals; Charles Esten
That comes out to 12 acts each night, with 7 Opry members on Friday night and 6 on Saturday. And let me add that it is nice to see one of my personal favorites, T. Graham Brown back at the Opry.
And now, here is the posted Grand Ole Opry line-up from five years ago, the weekend of March 18 & 19, 2011:
Friday March 18
7:00: John Conlee (host); The Whites; Joe Diffie
7:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Jan Howard; Mark Wills
Intermission
8:15: Jean Shepard (host); Jesse McReynolds; Gene Watson
8:45: Marty Stuart (host); Connie Smith; Eric Church
Saturday March 19
1st show
7:00: Jim Ed Brown (host); Connie Smith; James Wesley
7:30: Steve Wariner (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; The Whites
8:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Craig Morgan; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Jean Shepard; Charlie Daniels Band
2nd show
9:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; James Wesley
10:00: Steve Wariner (host); The Whites; Connie Smith
10:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Stu Phillips; Craig Morgan; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Riders In The Sky (host); Jean Shepard; Charlie Daniels Band
Now from ten years ago, the weekend of March 17 & 18, 2006:
Friday March 17
8:00: Nashville Irish Stepdancers; Porter Wagoner (host); The Whites; Mel McDaniel; Alecia Nugent
8:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; George Hamilton IV; Emerson Drive
9:00: Ricky Skaggs (host); Connie Smith; Rhett Akins
9:30: John Conlee (host); Jack Greene; Jim Ed Brown; Restless Heart
Saturday March 18
1st show
6:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Jimmy C Newman; Connie Smith
7:00: Lorrie Morgan (host); Carrie Underwood; Danielle Peck; Lee Ann Womack
8:00: Porter Wagoner (host); John Conlee; Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Rebecca Lynn Howard; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Ricky Skaggs (host); Riders In The Sky; The Whites
2nd show
9:30: Lorrie Morgan (host); Mel McDaniel; Connie Smith
10:00: Porter Wagoner (host); John Conlee; Jim Ed Brown; Danielle Peck
10:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Jimmy C Newman; Lee Ann Womack; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Ricky Skaggs (host); The Whites; Carrie Underwood
11:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Rebecca Lynn Howard
Finally, fifteen years ago, the weekend of March 16 & 17, 2001:
Friday March 16
7:30: Porter Wagoner (host); Connie Smith; Bill Carlisle; Nashville Bluegrass Band
8:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Osborne Brothers; Del Reeves; Sons of the Desert
8:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jean Shepard; Tim Rushlow
9:00: Bill Anderson (host); Jan Howard; Mike Snider; Mel McDaniel
9:30: John Conlee (host); Chalee Tennison; Gene Watson
Saturday March 17
1st show
6:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); Connie Smith; Bill Carlisle; The Whites
7:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Jeanne Pruett; Jimmy C Newman; Osborne Brothers
7:30: Mike Snider (host); Sons of the Desert; Ray Pillow; Chalee Tennison
8:00: John Conlee (host); Del Reeves; Jean Shepard; Opry Square Dance Band; Melvin Sloan Dancers
8:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jeannie Seely; Joe Diffie
2nd show
9:30: Nashville Irish Stepdancers; Porter Wagoner (host); The Whites; Chalee Tennison
10:00: Jimmy Dickens (host); Connie Smith; Jimmy C Newman; Mike Snider
10:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); Osborne Brothers; Jean Shepard; Opry Square Dance Band; Melvin Sloan Dancers
11:00: John Conlee (host); Jeannie Seely; Joe Diffie
11:30: Charlie Walker (host); Ray Pillow; Sons of the Desert
For this week's featured line-up, let's go back 39 years to Saturday March 19, 1977. This was the night of the Opry's annual Reunion shows, often referred to as "Old Timer's Night." The Opry held their first reunion show in February 1974 and it was such a success that it was held every year until the early 1990s. Many of the Opry's living ex-members from the early years of the Opry would come back for the annual show and over time, it became one of the highlights of the year.
Here is the running order from Saturday March 19, 1977 and many of the names will be recognized by Opry fans.
1st show
6:00: Vietti
Bill Anderson (host): Happiness
Zeke Clements: Just A Little Lovin'/Why Should I Cry Over You
Mary Lou Turner: Love It Way
Duke of Paducah: Comedy
Bill Anderson: Po' Folks
Bill Anderson & Mary Lou Turner: Sometimes
6:30: Mrs. Grissoms
Billy Walker (host): Word Games
Bill Carlisle: I'm Moving
Wilma Lee Cooper: Little Darling Pal of Mine
Billy Walker: You Gave Me A Mountain
6:45: Rudy's
Billy Grammer (host): Gotta Travel On
Justin Tubb: Sweetwater, Texas
Willis Brothers: Anytime/Just A Little Lovin'
Billy Grammer: East Tennessee Blues
7:00: Shoney's
Wilburn Brothers (host): Roll, Muddy River
Skeeter Davis: Desperado/He Will Be There
Paul Howard: Come On In Baby; The Boogie's Fine Tonight
Jimmy C Newman: Diggy Liggy Lo
Wilburn Brothers: Get All Excited
7:30: Standard Candy
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Honey Wilds: 12 St. Rag
Sarie: Comedy
Crook Brothers/Stoney Mountain Cloggers: Black Mountain Rag
Roy Acuff: The Heart That Was Broken For Me
8:00: Martha White
Bill Monroe (host): Blue Moon of Kentucky
Charlie Walker: Pick Me Up On Your Way Down
Pee Wee King: Bonaparte's Retreat/Tennessee Waltz
Curly Fox: The Old Gray Mule/Mockingbird
Alcyone Beasley: Silver Threads Among the Gold
Bill Monroe: Mule Skinner Blues
8:30: Stephens
Hank Snow (host): Hello Love
4 Guys: Cottonfields/Maria/Turn Around Look at Me
Lonzo & Oscar: Wedding Bells/I Can't Help It/You Win Again/Your Cheatin' Heart/Cold, Cold Heart
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Instrumental
Osborne Brothers: Rocky Top
Hank Snow: Paper Roses
2nd show
9:30: Kellogg's
Bill Anderson (host): Gone at Last
Billy Walker: How Great Thou Art
Wilburn Brothers: Arkansas
Billy Grammer: I'm Letting You Go
Ernie Ashworth: There's No Place I'd Rather Be Tonight
Mary Lou Turner: It's Different With You
Bill Anderson: Liars 1; Believers 0
10:00: Fender
Jimmy C Newman (host): Jambalaya
Bill Carlisle: Too Old To Cut the Mustard
Wilma Lee Cooper: Gathering Flowers from the Hillside
Jimmy C Newman: Diggy Liggy Lo
10:15: Union 76
Roy Acuff (host): Just A Friend
Willis Brothers: Give Me 40 Acres
Zeke Clements: Anytime
Roy Acuff: The Great Speckled Bird
10:30: Trailblazer
Bill Monroe (host): My Blue-Eyed Darling
Skeeter Davis: I'll Fly Away
Justin Tubb: As Long As There's a Sunday
Bill Monroe: Monroe's Blues
10:45: Beech-Nut
Charlie Walker (host): The Lord Knows I'm Drinking
4 Guys: Top of the World
Crook Brothers/Stoney Mountain Cloggers: Eighth of January
Charlie Walker: Pick Me Up On Your Way Down
11:00: Coca-Cola
Hank Snow (host): Merry Go Round of Love
Stu Phillips: Have A Nice Day
Pee Wee King: Deck of Cards
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Instrumental
Stu Phillips: It Is No Secret
Kirk McGee: Victory Rag/Freight Train
Hank Snow: I Keep Dreaming of You All the Time
11:30: Elm Hill
Osborne Brothers (host): Midnight Flyer
Marion Worth: Just A Little Lovin'/An Old Love Turned Memory
Lonzo & Oscar: Las Vegas
Osborne Brothers: Smokey Mountain Smoke
For Wilma Lee Cooper, this was her first Opry show after the death of her husband Stoney Cooper, who passed away on March 22.
Enjoy the Opry this weekend!!!
The Friday Night Opry will feature Opry members Jeannie Seely, Mike Snider, Riders In The Sky, Connie Smith, Bobby Osborne, John Conlee, and the featured attraction on Friday, Trace Adkins. Jeannie, Mike, and the Riders will be back on Saturday night, joined by The Whites, Jesse McReynolds, who cancelled out last weekend, and Bill Anderson.
As far as guest artists this weekend, Friday night will feature frequent Opry guest Darryl Worley, along with Waterloo Revival, The Gibson Brothers, William Michael Morgan, and Charles Kelley. Charles is one of the founding members of Lady Antebellum, who have played the Opry many times. Lady A is currently on a break from recording and touring, so Charles is working on his solo career. He recently released his debut single, "The Driver" which features Opry member Dierks Bentley. He also has been working on his song writing.
Saturday night guests include Michael Ray, no stronger to the Opry stage, along with Carly Pearce, T. Graham Brown, The Grascals, Charles Esten and Steve Moakler. For Steve, this will be his Opry debut. He has several albums out and he has written a number of songs and can currently be heard on various Satellite stations.
Friday March 18
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Darryl Worley; Mike Snider
7:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Waterloo Revival; The Gibson Brothers
Intermission
8:15: Connie Smith (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Charles Kelley
8:45: John Conlee (host); William Michael Morgan; Trace Adkins
Saturday March 19
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Michael Ray; The Whites
7:30: Mike Snider (host); Carly Pearce; T. Graham Brown
Intermission
8:15: Riders In The Sky (host); Jesse McReynolds; Steve Moakler; Opry Square Dancers
8:45: Bill Anderson (host); The Grascals; Charles Esten
That comes out to 12 acts each night, with 7 Opry members on Friday night and 6 on Saturday. And let me add that it is nice to see one of my personal favorites, T. Graham Brown back at the Opry.
And now, here is the posted Grand Ole Opry line-up from five years ago, the weekend of March 18 & 19, 2011:
Friday March 18
7:00: John Conlee (host); The Whites; Joe Diffie
7:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Jan Howard; Mark Wills
Intermission
8:15: Jean Shepard (host); Jesse McReynolds; Gene Watson
8:45: Marty Stuart (host); Connie Smith; Eric Church
Saturday March 19
1st show
7:00: Jim Ed Brown (host); Connie Smith; James Wesley
7:30: Steve Wariner (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; The Whites
8:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Craig Morgan; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Jean Shepard; Charlie Daniels Band
2nd show
9:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; James Wesley
10:00: Steve Wariner (host); The Whites; Connie Smith
10:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Stu Phillips; Craig Morgan; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Riders In The Sky (host); Jean Shepard; Charlie Daniels Band
Now from ten years ago, the weekend of March 17 & 18, 2006:
Friday March 17
8:00: Nashville Irish Stepdancers; Porter Wagoner (host); The Whites; Mel McDaniel; Alecia Nugent
8:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; George Hamilton IV; Emerson Drive
9:00: Ricky Skaggs (host); Connie Smith; Rhett Akins
9:30: John Conlee (host); Jack Greene; Jim Ed Brown; Restless Heart
Saturday March 18
1st show
6:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Jimmy C Newman; Connie Smith
7:00: Lorrie Morgan (host); Carrie Underwood; Danielle Peck; Lee Ann Womack
8:00: Porter Wagoner (host); John Conlee; Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Rebecca Lynn Howard; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Ricky Skaggs (host); Riders In The Sky; The Whites
2nd show
9:30: Lorrie Morgan (host); Mel McDaniel; Connie Smith
10:00: Porter Wagoner (host); John Conlee; Jim Ed Brown; Danielle Peck
10:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Jimmy C Newman; Lee Ann Womack; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Ricky Skaggs (host); The Whites; Carrie Underwood
11:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Rebecca Lynn Howard
Finally, fifteen years ago, the weekend of March 16 & 17, 2001:
Friday March 16
7:30: Porter Wagoner (host); Connie Smith; Bill Carlisle; Nashville Bluegrass Band
8:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Osborne Brothers; Del Reeves; Sons of the Desert
8:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jean Shepard; Tim Rushlow
9:00: Bill Anderson (host); Jan Howard; Mike Snider; Mel McDaniel
9:30: John Conlee (host); Chalee Tennison; Gene Watson
Saturday March 17
1st show
6:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); Connie Smith; Bill Carlisle; The Whites
7:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Jeanne Pruett; Jimmy C Newman; Osborne Brothers
7:30: Mike Snider (host); Sons of the Desert; Ray Pillow; Chalee Tennison
8:00: John Conlee (host); Del Reeves; Jean Shepard; Opry Square Dance Band; Melvin Sloan Dancers
8:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jeannie Seely; Joe Diffie
2nd show
9:30: Nashville Irish Stepdancers; Porter Wagoner (host); The Whites; Chalee Tennison
10:00: Jimmy Dickens (host); Connie Smith; Jimmy C Newman; Mike Snider
10:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); Osborne Brothers; Jean Shepard; Opry Square Dance Band; Melvin Sloan Dancers
11:00: John Conlee (host); Jeannie Seely; Joe Diffie
11:30: Charlie Walker (host); Ray Pillow; Sons of the Desert
For this week's featured line-up, let's go back 39 years to Saturday March 19, 1977. This was the night of the Opry's annual Reunion shows, often referred to as "Old Timer's Night." The Opry held their first reunion show in February 1974 and it was such a success that it was held every year until the early 1990s. Many of the Opry's living ex-members from the early years of the Opry would come back for the annual show and over time, it became one of the highlights of the year.
Here is the running order from Saturday March 19, 1977 and many of the names will be recognized by Opry fans.
1st show
6:00: Vietti
Bill Anderson (host): Happiness
Zeke Clements: Just A Little Lovin'/Why Should I Cry Over You
Mary Lou Turner: Love It Way
Duke of Paducah: Comedy
Bill Anderson: Po' Folks
Bill Anderson & Mary Lou Turner: Sometimes
6:30: Mrs. Grissoms
Billy Walker (host): Word Games
Bill Carlisle: I'm Moving
Wilma Lee Cooper: Little Darling Pal of Mine
Billy Walker: You Gave Me A Mountain
6:45: Rudy's
Billy Grammer (host): Gotta Travel On
Justin Tubb: Sweetwater, Texas
Willis Brothers: Anytime/Just A Little Lovin'
Billy Grammer: East Tennessee Blues
7:00: Shoney's
Wilburn Brothers (host): Roll, Muddy River
Skeeter Davis: Desperado/He Will Be There
Paul Howard: Come On In Baby; The Boogie's Fine Tonight
Jimmy C Newman: Diggy Liggy Lo
Wilburn Brothers: Get All Excited
7:30: Standard Candy
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Honey Wilds: 12 St. Rag
Sarie: Comedy
Crook Brothers/Stoney Mountain Cloggers: Black Mountain Rag
Roy Acuff: The Heart That Was Broken For Me
8:00: Martha White
Bill Monroe (host): Blue Moon of Kentucky
Charlie Walker: Pick Me Up On Your Way Down
Pee Wee King: Bonaparte's Retreat/Tennessee Waltz
Curly Fox: The Old Gray Mule/Mockingbird
Alcyone Beasley: Silver Threads Among the Gold
Bill Monroe: Mule Skinner Blues
8:30: Stephens
Hank Snow (host): Hello Love
4 Guys: Cottonfields/Maria/Turn Around Look at Me
Lonzo & Oscar: Wedding Bells/I Can't Help It/You Win Again/Your Cheatin' Heart/Cold, Cold Heart
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Instrumental
Osborne Brothers: Rocky Top
Hank Snow: Paper Roses
2nd show
9:30: Kellogg's
Bill Anderson (host): Gone at Last
Billy Walker: How Great Thou Art
Wilburn Brothers: Arkansas
Billy Grammer: I'm Letting You Go
Ernie Ashworth: There's No Place I'd Rather Be Tonight
Mary Lou Turner: It's Different With You
Bill Anderson: Liars 1; Believers 0
10:00: Fender
Jimmy C Newman (host): Jambalaya
Bill Carlisle: Too Old To Cut the Mustard
Wilma Lee Cooper: Gathering Flowers from the Hillside
Jimmy C Newman: Diggy Liggy Lo
10:15: Union 76
Roy Acuff (host): Just A Friend
Willis Brothers: Give Me 40 Acres
Zeke Clements: Anytime
Roy Acuff: The Great Speckled Bird
10:30: Trailblazer
Bill Monroe (host): My Blue-Eyed Darling
Skeeter Davis: I'll Fly Away
Justin Tubb: As Long As There's a Sunday
Bill Monroe: Monroe's Blues
10:45: Beech-Nut
Charlie Walker (host): The Lord Knows I'm Drinking
4 Guys: Top of the World
Crook Brothers/Stoney Mountain Cloggers: Eighth of January
Charlie Walker: Pick Me Up On Your Way Down
11:00: Coca-Cola
Hank Snow (host): Merry Go Round of Love
Stu Phillips: Have A Nice Day
Pee Wee King: Deck of Cards
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Instrumental
Stu Phillips: It Is No Secret
Kirk McGee: Victory Rag/Freight Train
Hank Snow: I Keep Dreaming of You All the Time
11:30: Elm Hill
Osborne Brothers (host): Midnight Flyer
Marion Worth: Just A Little Lovin'/An Old Love Turned Memory
Lonzo & Oscar: Las Vegas
Osborne Brothers: Smokey Mountain Smoke
For Wilma Lee Cooper, this was her first Opry show after the death of her husband Stoney Cooper, who passed away on March 22.
Enjoy the Opry this weekend!!!
Tuesday, March 15, 2016
Country Music Hall of Fame Announcement March 29
It has been announced that the 2016 inductees to the Country Music Hall of Fame will be revealed on Tuesday March 29. Hall of Fame member Brenda Lee will be hosting.
If past history is any indication, those who have been elected have been notified and there will be great speculation in the next several weeks on who has been elected. I have found it amazing that in the history of these announcements that there have been no leaks ahead of time. The closest we came was last year when Jim Ed Brown posted pictures of Maxine and Bonnie coming to Nashville, which just happened to be the day prior to the announcement. Also the year that Bobby Bare was elected there were strong indications ahead of time that he was one of those getting in. With today's Twitter and other instant message forums, it will be interesting to see what gets floated out there. Of course, I am sure many of you will be looking at the schedules of those who are thought to be finalists and see where they might, or might not be, on March 29. (Yes, I already checked and Alan Jackson and Ricky Skaggs, two of those talked about are open on that date).
There are dozens of artists, all legitimate candidates, who should be in the Hall of Fame and are not. Hopefully those deserving will be elected at some point in their lifetimes. Good luck to all of them and I hope that March 29 will be a day when dreams will come true, and they will for at least three individuals.
If past history is any indication, those who have been elected have been notified and there will be great speculation in the next several weeks on who has been elected. I have found it amazing that in the history of these announcements that there have been no leaks ahead of time. The closest we came was last year when Jim Ed Brown posted pictures of Maxine and Bonnie coming to Nashville, which just happened to be the day prior to the announcement. Also the year that Bobby Bare was elected there were strong indications ahead of time that he was one of those getting in. With today's Twitter and other instant message forums, it will be interesting to see what gets floated out there. Of course, I am sure many of you will be looking at the schedules of those who are thought to be finalists and see where they might, or might not be, on March 29. (Yes, I already checked and Alan Jackson and Ricky Skaggs, two of those talked about are open on that date).
There are dozens of artists, all legitimate candidates, who should be in the Hall of Fame and are not. Hopefully those deserving will be elected at some point in their lifetimes. Good luck to all of them and I hope that March 29 will be a day when dreams will come true, and they will for at least three individuals.
Wednesday, March 9, 2016
Grand Ole Opry 3/11 & 3/12
Before getting into the Grand Ole Opry line-ups for this week, I did want to mention the PBS Master's Series that spotlighted Loretta Lynn. While I know that it premiered on Friday night in most markets, it did not hit Canton until Sunday and I did watch it. I thought it was very well done and I enjoyed it. Lot's of Loretta footage and interviews with family members. There was classic Opry footage of her and Sissy Spacek doing "Coal Miner's Daughter" and a recent performance from Loretta and John Carter Cash, who produced her latest album, from the Ernest Tubb Record Shop. You can't cover everything in two hours so lot's was left out, but really no complaints on my part. Parts of it were funny, parts of it were sad, especially about her family. If you haven't seen it, I recommend it. I will also add that Loretta has an Opry appearance coming up in a couple of weeks.
As far as the Opry this weekend, the shows are not as strong as the past couple of weeks, and there are less Opry members scheduled from what we have seen, but overall not too bad of line-ups. Grand Ole Opry member Ricky Skaggs is again scheduled for both nights, and he will be joined by Riders In The Sky, Mike Snider and Bill Anderson. Joining those four on Friday night will be members Connie Smith and Jesse McReynolds, while on Saturday night, it will be Jeannie Seely, The Whites, Bobby Osborne and Dierks Bentley scheduled.
Guest artists on Friday will include the Irish folk music group Altan making their debut appearance. They are in Nashville for the Music City Irish Fest, taking place downtown and with St. Patrick's day next week, the Opry took advantage of the group being in town and scheduled them. From what I can tell, they very rarely come to the United States and I will be anxious to hear what they are all about. Joining Altan on Friday night will be Josh Thompson, Shelley Skidmore, The Swon Brothers and the great Moe Bandy. Very nice to see Moe making a guest appearance. Also scheduled is Tracy Lawrence, who will also be performing on Saturday night, along with Amanda Shires and Lee Greenwood.
Friday March 11
7:00: Connie Smith (host); Josh Thompson; Mike Snider
7:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Shelley Skidmore; Jesse McReynolds
Intermission
8:15: Bill Anderson (host); Moe Bandy; The Swon Brothers
8:45: Ricky Skaggs (host); Tracy Lawrence; Altan
Saturday March 12
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Mike Snider; Amanda Shires
7:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Tracy Lawrence
Intermission
8:15: Ricky Skaggs (host); The Whites; Lee Greenwood; Opry Square Dancers
8:45: Bill Anderson (host); Dierks Bentley
That comes out to 12 acts on Friday and 11 on Saturday, with 6 Opry members on Friday and 8 on Saturday.
For what it is worth, I did some checking on the Ernest Tubb Record Shop website. They are still advertising the return of the Midnight Jamboree on Saturday April 2, which is less than a month away. The site has not bee updated for some time and there are no acts listed for any upcoming Midnight Jamboree shows. Makes you wonder.
And now, here is the posted Grand Ole Opry line-up from five years ago, the weekend of March 11 & 12, 2011:
Friday March 11
7:00: Ricky Skaggs (host); Connie Smith; The Brock McGuire Band
7:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Mandy Barnett; Ralph Stanley
Intermission
8:15: Bill Anderson (host); Jan Howard; Josh Turner
8:45: Riders In The Sky (host); Jim Ed Brown; Kenny Rogers
Saturday March 12
7:00: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jimmy C Newman; Troy Olsen
7:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Jack Greene; Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Mandy Barnett
Intermission
8:15: Jim Ed Brown (host); George Hamilton IV; Terri Clark; Opry Square Dancers
8:45: Riders In The Sky (host); Jean Shepard; Diamond Rio
Now from ten years ago, the weekend of March 10 & 11, 2006:
Friday March 10
8:00: Porter Wagoner (host); The White; Jack Greene; Little Big Town
8:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Ralph Stanley; Blue Country
9:00: Jean Shepard (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Jeff Bates
9:30: Ricky Skaggs (host); Connie Smith; John Conlee
Saturday March 11
1st show
6:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); The Whites; Jimmy C Newman; Daryle Singletary
7:00: Pam Tillis (host); Lonestar; SHeDAISY; The Grascals featuring The Jordanaires
8:00: Porter Wagoner (host); George Hamilton IV; Jean Shepard; Mel McDaniel; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Ray Scott; Jim Ed Brown
2nd show
9:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); The Whites; SHeDAISY
10:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Jan Howard; Jimmy C Newman; The Grascals featuring The Jordanaires
10:30: Pam Tillis (host); Jean Shepard; Lonestar; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Jack Greene; Daryle Singletary
11:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); Mel McDaniel; Ray Scott
For this week's look back into Grand Ole Opry history, here is the line-up from 62 years ago this weekend, Saturday March 13, 1954:
7:30: Warren Paint
Roy Acuff (host): Crawdad Song
Lew Childre: Everybody's Fishin'
Goldie Hill: Let Me Be The One
Roy Acuff: The Wreck On The Highway
Howdy Forrester: Topeka Polka
7:45 American Ace
Roy Acuff (host): Just A Friend
Martha Carson: Bye and Bye
Jimmy Riddle: Juke Box Boggie
Dot and Smokey: When I Stop Lovin' You
Roy Acuff: Precious Memories
Oswald: Foggy Mountain Top
8:00: Martha White
Hank Snow (host): Panama Mama
Bill Monroe: Changing Partners
Johnny and Jack: Love Trap
June Carter: I'm All Broke Out With Love
Hank Snow: Act I, Act II, Act III
Possum Hunters: Black Berry Blossom
Kitty Wells: After Dark
Bill Monroe: Goodbye Old Pal
Johnny and Jack: Ashes of Love
Fiddle Tune: Bill Cheatham
Hank Snow: I'm Movin' On
8:30: Prince Albert
Webb Pierce (host): You Just Can't Be True
Rod Brasfield: Comedy
Davis Sisters: Takin' Time Out For Tears
Square Dancers: Old Joe Clark
Webb Pierce: Precious Memories
Moon Mullican: Good Deal Lucille
Minnie Pearl: Comedy
Davis Sisters: I Forgot More Than You'll Every Know
String Bean: Going Down The Country
Webb Pierce: Slowly
Fiddle Tune: Grey Eagle
9:00: Roy Crown Cola
Roy Acuff (host): New River Train
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Fire In The Mountain
George Morgan: Love, Love, Love
Jug Band: They Cut Down The Old Pine Tree
Marty Robbins: Isle of Golden Dreams
Lonzo and Oscar: Wild Oats
Roy Acuff: I Saw The Light
Oswald: Curly Headed Baby
Riddle: I'm Sitting On Top of The World
Howdy Forrester: Apple Blossom
9:30: Martha White
Carl Smith (host): Satisfaction Guaranteed
Jimmy Dickens: I'm Little But I'm Loud
Anita Carter: There'll Be No Teardrops Tonight
Cowboy Copas: Filipino Baby
Crook Brothers: Buff Creek Gal
Ray Price: I'll Be There
Chet Atkins: There's A Shanty In Old Shanty Town
Carl Smith: Who'll Buy My Heartaches
Jimmy Dickens: Sidemeat and Cabbage
Fiddle Tune: Turkey In The Straw
Carl Smith: This Orchid Means Goodbye
10:00: Wallrite
George Morgan (host): Look What Followed Me Home
Martha Carson: Lazarus
Bill Monroe: A Voice From On High
Blue Grass Boys: Roanoke Breakdown
George Morgan: The First Time I Told You A Lie
10:15: Dr. Le Gear
Hank Snow (host): Honeymoon On A Rocket Ship
Davis Sisters: Gotta Git Goin'
Marty Robbins: At The End of A Long Lovely Day
Tommy Vaden: Leather Britches
Hank Snow: I'm Bidding My Blues Goodbye
10:30: Jefferson Island Salt
Jimmy Dickens (host): I Just Wouldn't Do That
Ray Price: Release Me
Goldie Hill: Young At Heart
Jordanaires: Tattler's Wagon
Mother Maybelle: Wildwood Flower
Moon Mullican: Wanted
Jimmy Dickens: Waitress, Waitress
Chet Atkins: Over The Waves
Ray Price: You'll Always Get By
Fiddle Tune: Sally Goodin
11:00: O-Cel-O
Roy Acuff (host): Don't Hang Your Dirty Linen On My Line
Cowboy Copas: The Man Upstairs
Bobby Hebbs; Mr. Spoons
Gang: This World Can't Stand Long
Howdy: Cotton Eyed Joe
11:15: Hester Battery
Carl Smith: Doggone It Baby, I'm In Love
Johnny and Jack: Cheating Is A Sin
String Beans: Free A Little Bird
Gully Jumpers: Old Joe
Carl Smith: Darling, Am I The One
11:30: W. E. Stephens
Hank Snow (host): When Mexican Joe Meets Jole Blon
Lew Childre: Snow White Horse
Lonzo and Oscar: Let Me Be The One No. 2
Crook Brothers: Billy In The Low Ground
Hank Snow: Rumba Boogie
11:45: Mathieson Chemical Co.
Webb Pierce (host): There Stands The Glass
Sam and Kirk McGee: Waiting For A Letter
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Billy In The Low Ground
Webb Pierce: I'm Walking The Dog
Fiddle: Wagoner
I don't think anyone would complain about that Opry show, except maybe Webb Pierce who had to wait 2 1/2 hours between his two spots. Many of the performers had three, including Roy Acuff and Hank Snow.
Enjoy the Opry this weekend!!!!
As far as the Opry this weekend, the shows are not as strong as the past couple of weeks, and there are less Opry members scheduled from what we have seen, but overall not too bad of line-ups. Grand Ole Opry member Ricky Skaggs is again scheduled for both nights, and he will be joined by Riders In The Sky, Mike Snider and Bill Anderson. Joining those four on Friday night will be members Connie Smith and Jesse McReynolds, while on Saturday night, it will be Jeannie Seely, The Whites, Bobby Osborne and Dierks Bentley scheduled.
Guest artists on Friday will include the Irish folk music group Altan making their debut appearance. They are in Nashville for the Music City Irish Fest, taking place downtown and with St. Patrick's day next week, the Opry took advantage of the group being in town and scheduled them. From what I can tell, they very rarely come to the United States and I will be anxious to hear what they are all about. Joining Altan on Friday night will be Josh Thompson, Shelley Skidmore, The Swon Brothers and the great Moe Bandy. Very nice to see Moe making a guest appearance. Also scheduled is Tracy Lawrence, who will also be performing on Saturday night, along with Amanda Shires and Lee Greenwood.
Friday March 11
7:00: Connie Smith (host); Josh Thompson; Mike Snider
7:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Shelley Skidmore; Jesse McReynolds
Intermission
8:15: Bill Anderson (host); Moe Bandy; The Swon Brothers
8:45: Ricky Skaggs (host); Tracy Lawrence; Altan
Saturday March 12
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Mike Snider; Amanda Shires
7:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Tracy Lawrence
Intermission
8:15: Ricky Skaggs (host); The Whites; Lee Greenwood; Opry Square Dancers
8:45: Bill Anderson (host); Dierks Bentley
That comes out to 12 acts on Friday and 11 on Saturday, with 6 Opry members on Friday and 8 on Saturday.
For what it is worth, I did some checking on the Ernest Tubb Record Shop website. They are still advertising the return of the Midnight Jamboree on Saturday April 2, which is less than a month away. The site has not bee updated for some time and there are no acts listed for any upcoming Midnight Jamboree shows. Makes you wonder.
And now, here is the posted Grand Ole Opry line-up from five years ago, the weekend of March 11 & 12, 2011:
Friday March 11
7:00: Ricky Skaggs (host); Connie Smith; The Brock McGuire Band
7:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Mandy Barnett; Ralph Stanley
Intermission
8:15: Bill Anderson (host); Jan Howard; Josh Turner
8:45: Riders In The Sky (host); Jim Ed Brown; Kenny Rogers
Saturday March 12
7:00: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jimmy C Newman; Troy Olsen
7:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Jack Greene; Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Mandy Barnett
Intermission
8:15: Jim Ed Brown (host); George Hamilton IV; Terri Clark; Opry Square Dancers
8:45: Riders In The Sky (host); Jean Shepard; Diamond Rio
Now from ten years ago, the weekend of March 10 & 11, 2006:
Friday March 10
8:00: Porter Wagoner (host); The White; Jack Greene; Little Big Town
8:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Ralph Stanley; Blue Country
9:00: Jean Shepard (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Jeff Bates
9:30: Ricky Skaggs (host); Connie Smith; John Conlee
Saturday March 11
1st show
6:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); The Whites; Jimmy C Newman; Daryle Singletary
7:00: Pam Tillis (host); Lonestar; SHeDAISY; The Grascals featuring The Jordanaires
8:00: Porter Wagoner (host); George Hamilton IV; Jean Shepard; Mel McDaniel; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Ray Scott; Jim Ed Brown
2nd show
9:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); The Whites; SHeDAISY
10:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Jan Howard; Jimmy C Newman; The Grascals featuring The Jordanaires
10:30: Pam Tillis (host); Jean Shepard; Lonestar; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Jack Greene; Daryle Singletary
11:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); Mel McDaniel; Ray Scott
For this week's look back into Grand Ole Opry history, here is the line-up from 62 years ago this weekend, Saturday March 13, 1954:
7:30: Warren Paint
Roy Acuff (host): Crawdad Song
Lew Childre: Everybody's Fishin'
Goldie Hill: Let Me Be The One
Roy Acuff: The Wreck On The Highway
Howdy Forrester: Topeka Polka
7:45 American Ace
Roy Acuff (host): Just A Friend
Martha Carson: Bye and Bye
Jimmy Riddle: Juke Box Boggie
Dot and Smokey: When I Stop Lovin' You
Roy Acuff: Precious Memories
Oswald: Foggy Mountain Top
8:00: Martha White
Hank Snow (host): Panama Mama
Bill Monroe: Changing Partners
Johnny and Jack: Love Trap
June Carter: I'm All Broke Out With Love
Hank Snow: Act I, Act II, Act III
Possum Hunters: Black Berry Blossom
Kitty Wells: After Dark
Bill Monroe: Goodbye Old Pal
Johnny and Jack: Ashes of Love
Fiddle Tune: Bill Cheatham
Hank Snow: I'm Movin' On
8:30: Prince Albert
Webb Pierce (host): You Just Can't Be True
Rod Brasfield: Comedy
Davis Sisters: Takin' Time Out For Tears
Square Dancers: Old Joe Clark
Webb Pierce: Precious Memories
Moon Mullican: Good Deal Lucille
Minnie Pearl: Comedy
Davis Sisters: I Forgot More Than You'll Every Know
String Bean: Going Down The Country
Webb Pierce: Slowly
Fiddle Tune: Grey Eagle
9:00: Roy Crown Cola
Roy Acuff (host): New River Train
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Fire In The Mountain
George Morgan: Love, Love, Love
Jug Band: They Cut Down The Old Pine Tree
Marty Robbins: Isle of Golden Dreams
Lonzo and Oscar: Wild Oats
Roy Acuff: I Saw The Light
Oswald: Curly Headed Baby
Riddle: I'm Sitting On Top of The World
Howdy Forrester: Apple Blossom
9:30: Martha White
Carl Smith (host): Satisfaction Guaranteed
Jimmy Dickens: I'm Little But I'm Loud
Anita Carter: There'll Be No Teardrops Tonight
Cowboy Copas: Filipino Baby
Crook Brothers: Buff Creek Gal
Ray Price: I'll Be There
Chet Atkins: There's A Shanty In Old Shanty Town
Carl Smith: Who'll Buy My Heartaches
Jimmy Dickens: Sidemeat and Cabbage
Fiddle Tune: Turkey In The Straw
Carl Smith: This Orchid Means Goodbye
10:00: Wallrite
George Morgan (host): Look What Followed Me Home
Martha Carson: Lazarus
Bill Monroe: A Voice From On High
Blue Grass Boys: Roanoke Breakdown
George Morgan: The First Time I Told You A Lie
10:15: Dr. Le Gear
Hank Snow (host): Honeymoon On A Rocket Ship
Davis Sisters: Gotta Git Goin'
Marty Robbins: At The End of A Long Lovely Day
Tommy Vaden: Leather Britches
Hank Snow: I'm Bidding My Blues Goodbye
10:30: Jefferson Island Salt
Jimmy Dickens (host): I Just Wouldn't Do That
Ray Price: Release Me
Goldie Hill: Young At Heart
Jordanaires: Tattler's Wagon
Mother Maybelle: Wildwood Flower
Moon Mullican: Wanted
Jimmy Dickens: Waitress, Waitress
Chet Atkins: Over The Waves
Ray Price: You'll Always Get By
Fiddle Tune: Sally Goodin
11:00: O-Cel-O
Roy Acuff (host): Don't Hang Your Dirty Linen On My Line
Cowboy Copas: The Man Upstairs
Bobby Hebbs; Mr. Spoons
Gang: This World Can't Stand Long
Howdy: Cotton Eyed Joe
11:15: Hester Battery
Carl Smith: Doggone It Baby, I'm In Love
Johnny and Jack: Cheating Is A Sin
String Beans: Free A Little Bird
Gully Jumpers: Old Joe
Carl Smith: Darling, Am I The One
11:30: W. E. Stephens
Hank Snow (host): When Mexican Joe Meets Jole Blon
Lew Childre: Snow White Horse
Lonzo and Oscar: Let Me Be The One No. 2
Crook Brothers: Billy In The Low Ground
Hank Snow: Rumba Boogie
11:45: Mathieson Chemical Co.
Webb Pierce (host): There Stands The Glass
Sam and Kirk McGee: Waiting For A Letter
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Billy In The Low Ground
Webb Pierce: I'm Walking The Dog
Fiddle: Wagoner
I don't think anyone would complain about that Opry show, except maybe Webb Pierce who had to wait 2 1/2 hours between his two spots. Many of the performers had three, including Roy Acuff and Hank Snow.
Enjoy the Opry this weekend!!!!