The Grand Ole Opry begins its winter run at the Ryman Auditorium with the Tuesday Night Opry. Highlighting the show will be Grand Ole Opry members Loretta Lynn and Darius Rucker. For Loretta, this will be a rescheduled Opry appearance after recovering from a recent fall.
7:00: Riders In The Sky; Ray Scott
7:30: Rhonda Vincent; Larry Gatlin & The Gatlin Brothers
Intermission
8:15: Darryl Worley; Jennifer Nettles
8:45: Darius Rucker; Loretta Lynn
A very nice Tuesday night line-up.
Nationally recognized independent Grand Ole Opry historian Byron Fay offers news and comments regarding country music's premier show.
Sunday, October 30, 2016
Thursday, October 27, 2016
Grand Ole Opry 10/28 & 10/29
The Grand Ole Opry has posted the line-ups for the three shows this weekend, which will be the final Grand Ole Opry shows at the Grand Ole Opry House for this year. Tuesday night the Opry begins the annual winter run at the Ryman Auditorium. And unlike last Friday night, the line-ups this weekend shows a full slate of artists for all three shows.
Highlighting both nights will be Grand Ole Opry members Old Crow Medicine Show, who will be closing out each of the shows. They will be joined each night by Grand Ole Opry members Riders In The Sky, Mike Snider and Connie Smith. Joining that group on Friday night will be Pam Tillis, Jesse McReynolds, The Whites and Lorrie Morgan, while on Saturday night it will be Jeannie Seely and Bill Anderson joining Riders, Mike, Connie and Old Crow for both shows, while Bobby Osborne is scheduled for the late show. That comes out to 8 Opry members on Friday and 6 for the first show on Saturday, with 7 scheduled for the 2nd show.
As far as guest artists this weekend, there are a couple of artists who will be making their Grand Ole Opry debut. Brent Cobb will be making his first Opry appearance on Friday night, while Luke Combs will be debuting on Saturday night. Brent Cobb is from Ellaville, Georgia and released his first EP in 2012. He is also a songwriter, having written songs for a number of country music artists. His musical style is considered traditional country and bluegrass. He will be appearing on the Opry in support of his new CD "Shine On Rainy Day" which has been released on Elektra Records. His CD and songwriting has been compared to Tom T Hall, Kris Kristofferson and Merle Haggard. As far as Luke Combs, he is a newcomer to the Nashville scene and records for River House Records. His first single, "Hurricane" was originally released last summer, but has been re-released on Columbia Records, a division of Sony Music Nashville. Originally from North Carolina, Luke has so far released three extended play CD's.
As to the rest of the Friday night line-up, it will include frequent Opry guests Carly Pearce, Love and Theft, along with John Berry. Saturday night's show also will include Craig Campbell, LOCASH, and Lucie Silvas, along with her husband John Osborne, who is part of the Brothers Osborne.
Friday October 28
7:00: Riders In The Sky (host); Carly Pearce; Mike Snider
7:30: Pam Tillis (host); Jesse McReynolds; The Whites; Love and Theft
Intermission
8:15: Lorrie Morgan (host); John Berry; Brent Cobb
8:45: Connie Smith (host); Old Crow Medicine Show
Saturday October 29
1st show
7:00: Connie Smith (host); Craig Campbell; Mike Snider
7:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Luke Combs; LOCASH
8:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Lucie Silvas & John Osborne; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Bill Anderson (host); Old Crow Medicine Show
2nd show
9:30: Connie Smith (host); Craig Campbell; Mike Snider
10:00: Riders In The Sky (host); Luke Combs; LOCASH
10:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Lucie Silvas & John Osborne; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Bill Anderson (host); Old Crow Medicine Show
Overall, a couple of pretty good nights. It is great to see Pam Tillis returning to the Opry, along with Lorrie Morgan, and both will be hosting segments. A good way to finish out the month of October. And with Halloween this weekend, I would imagine a few of the Opry stars will be dressing up.
And now, here is the posted Grand Ole Opry line-up from five years ago, the weekend of October 28 & 29, 2011:
Friday October 28
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Jesse McReynolds; Daryle Singletary
7:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jimmy C Newman; Mandy Barnett
Intermission
8:15: Mike Snider (host); Jack Greene; Mark Wills
8:45: John Conlee (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Diamond Rio
Saturday October 29
1st show
7:00: Jimmy Dickens (host); The Whites; The Grascals
7:30: Mike Snider (host); Lee Greenwood; Clint Black
8:00: John Conlee (host); Connie Smith; Gretchen Wilson; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Charlie Daniels Band
2nd show
9:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jimmy C Newman; The Grascals
10:00: The Whites (host); Lee Greenwood; Clint Black
10:30: John Conlee (host); Connie Smith; Gretchen Wilson; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Charlie Daniels Band
Now from ten years ago, the weekend of October 27 & 28, 2006. The 7:00 segment on Saturday night was televised by GAC, thus no host
Friday October 27
8:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Riders In The Sky; Trent Willmon
8:30: Mike Snider (host); The Whites; Carolina Rain
9:00: Bill Anderson (host); Jan Howard; Del McCoury Band
9:30: John Conlee (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Kellie Pickler
Saturday October 28
1st show
6:30: Bill Anderson (host); The Whites; Jimmy C Newman
7:00: Carolyn Dawn Johnson; Blaine Larsen; Suzy Bogguss; Lorrie Morgan; Randy Owen
8:00: Riders In The Sky (host); George Hamilton IV; Del McCoury Band; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Mike Snider (host); James Hand; Rodney Atkins
2nd show
9:30: Bill Anderson (host); Mike Snider; Carolyn Dawn Johnson
10:00: Lorrie Morgan (host); Jimmy C Newman; The Whites; Del McCoury Band
10:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Randy Owen; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: George Hamilton IV (host); James Hand; Ray Pillow; Blaine Larsen
11:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Rodney Atkins
Finally, from 25 years ago, the weekend of October 25 & 26, 1991:
Friday October 25
1st show
6:30: Grandpa Jones (host); Billy Walker; Riders In The Sky; Mike Snider
7:00: Tom T Hall (host); Skeeter Davis; Jim & Jesse; Garth Brooks
7:30: Roy Acuff (host); Jim Ed Brown; Jan Howard; Bill Carlisle
8:00: Bill Monroe (host); Jack Greene; Del Reeves; The Whites
8:30: Hank Snow (host); Stonewall Jackson; Jeannie Seely; Charlie Walker
2nd show
9:30: Tom T Hall (host); Ray Pillow; Jim & Jesse
10:00: Roy Acuff (host); Grandpa Jones; Garth Brooks
10:30: Bill Monroe (host); Del Reeves; Billy Walker; Mike Snider
11:00: Hank Snow (host); Jeannie Seely; The Whites; Jim Ed Brown; Bill Carlisle
11:30: Jack Greene (host); Riders In The Sky; Jan Howard; Johnny Russell
Saturday October 26
1st show
6:30: Bill Monroe (host); Del Reeves
6:45: Grandpa Jones (host); Jeannie Seely; The Whites
7:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Jim Ed Brown; Skeeter Davis; 4 Guys; Billy Walker
7:30: Bill Anderson (host); Alison Krauss; Garth Brooks
8:00: Roy Acuff (host); Jimmy C Newman; Johnny Russell; Jean Shepard; Opry Square Dance Band; Stoney Mountain Cloggers
8:30: Hank Snow (host); Jimmy Dickens; Roy Drusky; Jack Greene; Jim & Jesse
2nd show
9:30: Porter Wagoner (host); The Whites; Jim Ed Brown; Garth Brooks
10:00: Bill Monroe (host); Jean Shepard
10:15: Roy Acuff (host); Alison Krauss
10:30: Grandpa Jones (host); Jan Howard; Charlie Walker
10:45: Bill Anderson (host); Ray Pillow; Opry Square Dance Band; Stoney Mountain Cloggers
11:00: Hank Snow (host); Jim & Jesse; Justin Tubb; 4 Guys; Jimmy C Newman
11:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Roy Drusky; Jack Greene; Johnny Russell
Looking back, it was on Saturday October 28, 1989 that Grand Ole Opry member, and legend, Bill Monroe was honored as an Opry member for 50 years. Bill originally came to the Opry in October 1939 and brought bluegrass music with him. I don't think anyone can argue that Bill is one of the giants in the history of the Opry.
Here is the running order from 27 years ago, the night that Bill Monroe celebrated his 50th anniversary as a member of the Grand Ole Opry:
1st show
6:30: Mrs. Grissoms
Jim Ed Brown (host): Southern Loving
Jeannie Seely: I'll Be Around When It's Over
Jim Ed Brown: The Old Lamplighter
6:45: Rudy's
Jack Greene (host): Walking on New Grass
Jeanne Pruett: I Ought a Feel Guilty
Jack Greene: There Goes My Everything/Statue of a Fool
7:00: Shoney's
Jimmy Dickens (host): Me & My Big Loud Mouth
Charlie Louvin: Stormy Horizons
Ray Pillow: Congratulations
Connie Smith: Walkin After Midnight
New Coon Creek Girls: Night Train to Memphis
Jimmy Dickens: I Love Lucy Brown/Sleepin at the Foot of the Bed
7:30: Standard Candy
Bill Monroe (host): Mule Skinner Blues
Emmylou Harris & Bill Monroe: Kentucky Waltz/My Rose of Kentucky
Larry Cordle: Kentucky King
Bill Monroe & Emmylou Harris: Blue Moon of Kentucky
Bill Monroe: Rawhide
8:00: Martha White
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Jean Shepard: Are You Teasing Me/I'll Sail My Ship Alone
Roy Drusky: New Lips/One Day at a Time
Bill Carlisle: Oh, What A Party
Opry Square Dance Band/Stoney Mountain Cloggers: Dance All Night
Roy Acuff: I'll Fly Away
8:30: Music Valley
Hank Snow (host): A Vanishing Breed
Billy Grammer: Gotta Travel On
Charlie Walker: Pick Me Up On Your Way Down
Dottie West: Are You Happy Baby/Together Again
Hank Snow: I'm Glad I Got to See You Once Again
2nd show
9:30: Dollar General
Jim Ed Brown (host): Pop A Top
Jeannie Seely: Tell Me Again
Ray Pillow: Lucky Me
Jeanne Pruett: Satin Sheets
Charlie Louvin: My Baby's Gone
Jim Ed Brown: The 3 Bells
10:00: Little Debbie
Jack Greene (host): Until My Dreams Come True
Jan Howard: Slow Burning Memory
Jack Greene: The Last Letter
10:15: Sunbeam
Roy Acuff (host): Sunshine Special
Jimmy Dickens: Take An Old Cold Tater/Out Behind the Barn
Roy Acuff: I Saw the Light
10:30: Pet Milk
Billy Walker (host): Down to My Last Cigarette
Connie Smith: Amazing Grace
Billy Walker: Behind Closed Doors/Charlie's Shoes
10:45: B.C. Powder
Bill Monroe (host): Its' Mighty Dark for Me to Travel
Jean Shepard: So Used to Loving You
Opry Square Dance Band/Stoney Mountain Cloggers: Sugar in the Goard
Bill Monroe: Sugar Loaf Mountain
11:00: Coca-Cola
Hank Snow (host): Why Do You Punish Me
Justin Tubb: Walking, Talking, Crying, Barely Beating Broken Heart
New Coon Creek Girls: How Many Biscuits Can You Eat
Dottie West: Here Comes My Baby
Dottie West & T. Tolliver: Everytime 2 Fools Collide
Hank Snow: The Party of the Second Part
11:30: Creamette
Charlie Walker (host):Does Ft. Worth Ever Cross Your Mind
Billy Grammer: Somebody Loves You
Roy Drusky: What About You
Bill Carlisle: Hand Me Down My Walking Cane
Charlie Walker: Cindy
What I found interesting on that night was that considering Bill Monroe was the "Father of Bluegrass" and such an influence on so many others, that only Emmylou Harris and Larry Cordle took part on the televised tribute to Bill. I would have expected to see a few more that night. Also, Larry Cordle's "Kentucky King" performance from that night is on YouTube. And it includes a great introduction by Grant Turner, who was the master of ceremonies for the televised portion.
I hope everyone enjoys the Opry this weekend!!
Highlighting both nights will be Grand Ole Opry members Old Crow Medicine Show, who will be closing out each of the shows. They will be joined each night by Grand Ole Opry members Riders In The Sky, Mike Snider and Connie Smith. Joining that group on Friday night will be Pam Tillis, Jesse McReynolds, The Whites and Lorrie Morgan, while on Saturday night it will be Jeannie Seely and Bill Anderson joining Riders, Mike, Connie and Old Crow for both shows, while Bobby Osborne is scheduled for the late show. That comes out to 8 Opry members on Friday and 6 for the first show on Saturday, with 7 scheduled for the 2nd show.
As far as guest artists this weekend, there are a couple of artists who will be making their Grand Ole Opry debut. Brent Cobb will be making his first Opry appearance on Friday night, while Luke Combs will be debuting on Saturday night. Brent Cobb is from Ellaville, Georgia and released his first EP in 2012. He is also a songwriter, having written songs for a number of country music artists. His musical style is considered traditional country and bluegrass. He will be appearing on the Opry in support of his new CD "Shine On Rainy Day" which has been released on Elektra Records. His CD and songwriting has been compared to Tom T Hall, Kris Kristofferson and Merle Haggard. As far as Luke Combs, he is a newcomer to the Nashville scene and records for River House Records. His first single, "Hurricane" was originally released last summer, but has been re-released on Columbia Records, a division of Sony Music Nashville. Originally from North Carolina, Luke has so far released three extended play CD's.
As to the rest of the Friday night line-up, it will include frequent Opry guests Carly Pearce, Love and Theft, along with John Berry. Saturday night's show also will include Craig Campbell, LOCASH, and Lucie Silvas, along with her husband John Osborne, who is part of the Brothers Osborne.
Friday October 28
7:00: Riders In The Sky (host); Carly Pearce; Mike Snider
7:30: Pam Tillis (host); Jesse McReynolds; The Whites; Love and Theft
Intermission
8:15: Lorrie Morgan (host); John Berry; Brent Cobb
8:45: Connie Smith (host); Old Crow Medicine Show
Saturday October 29
1st show
7:00: Connie Smith (host); Craig Campbell; Mike Snider
7:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Luke Combs; LOCASH
8:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Lucie Silvas & John Osborne; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Bill Anderson (host); Old Crow Medicine Show
2nd show
9:30: Connie Smith (host); Craig Campbell; Mike Snider
10:00: Riders In The Sky (host); Luke Combs; LOCASH
10:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Lucie Silvas & John Osborne; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Bill Anderson (host); Old Crow Medicine Show
Overall, a couple of pretty good nights. It is great to see Pam Tillis returning to the Opry, along with Lorrie Morgan, and both will be hosting segments. A good way to finish out the month of October. And with Halloween this weekend, I would imagine a few of the Opry stars will be dressing up.
And now, here is the posted Grand Ole Opry line-up from five years ago, the weekend of October 28 & 29, 2011:
Friday October 28
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Jesse McReynolds; Daryle Singletary
7:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jimmy C Newman; Mandy Barnett
Intermission
8:15: Mike Snider (host); Jack Greene; Mark Wills
8:45: John Conlee (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Diamond Rio
Saturday October 29
1st show
7:00: Jimmy Dickens (host); The Whites; The Grascals
7:30: Mike Snider (host); Lee Greenwood; Clint Black
8:00: John Conlee (host); Connie Smith; Gretchen Wilson; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Charlie Daniels Band
2nd show
9:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jimmy C Newman; The Grascals
10:00: The Whites (host); Lee Greenwood; Clint Black
10:30: John Conlee (host); Connie Smith; Gretchen Wilson; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Charlie Daniels Band
Now from ten years ago, the weekend of October 27 & 28, 2006. The 7:00 segment on Saturday night was televised by GAC, thus no host
Friday October 27
8:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Riders In The Sky; Trent Willmon
8:30: Mike Snider (host); The Whites; Carolina Rain
9:00: Bill Anderson (host); Jan Howard; Del McCoury Band
9:30: John Conlee (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Kellie Pickler
Saturday October 28
1st show
6:30: Bill Anderson (host); The Whites; Jimmy C Newman
7:00: Carolyn Dawn Johnson; Blaine Larsen; Suzy Bogguss; Lorrie Morgan; Randy Owen
8:00: Riders In The Sky (host); George Hamilton IV; Del McCoury Band; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Mike Snider (host); James Hand; Rodney Atkins
2nd show
9:30: Bill Anderson (host); Mike Snider; Carolyn Dawn Johnson
10:00: Lorrie Morgan (host); Jimmy C Newman; The Whites; Del McCoury Band
10:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Randy Owen; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: George Hamilton IV (host); James Hand; Ray Pillow; Blaine Larsen
11:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Rodney Atkins
Finally, from 25 years ago, the weekend of October 25 & 26, 1991:
Friday October 25
1st show
6:30: Grandpa Jones (host); Billy Walker; Riders In The Sky; Mike Snider
7:00: Tom T Hall (host); Skeeter Davis; Jim & Jesse; Garth Brooks
7:30: Roy Acuff (host); Jim Ed Brown; Jan Howard; Bill Carlisle
8:00: Bill Monroe (host); Jack Greene; Del Reeves; The Whites
8:30: Hank Snow (host); Stonewall Jackson; Jeannie Seely; Charlie Walker
2nd show
9:30: Tom T Hall (host); Ray Pillow; Jim & Jesse
10:00: Roy Acuff (host); Grandpa Jones; Garth Brooks
10:30: Bill Monroe (host); Del Reeves; Billy Walker; Mike Snider
11:00: Hank Snow (host); Jeannie Seely; The Whites; Jim Ed Brown; Bill Carlisle
11:30: Jack Greene (host); Riders In The Sky; Jan Howard; Johnny Russell
Saturday October 26
1st show
6:30: Bill Monroe (host); Del Reeves
6:45: Grandpa Jones (host); Jeannie Seely; The Whites
7:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Jim Ed Brown; Skeeter Davis; 4 Guys; Billy Walker
7:30: Bill Anderson (host); Alison Krauss; Garth Brooks
8:00: Roy Acuff (host); Jimmy C Newman; Johnny Russell; Jean Shepard; Opry Square Dance Band; Stoney Mountain Cloggers
8:30: Hank Snow (host); Jimmy Dickens; Roy Drusky; Jack Greene; Jim & Jesse
2nd show
9:30: Porter Wagoner (host); The Whites; Jim Ed Brown; Garth Brooks
10:00: Bill Monroe (host); Jean Shepard
10:15: Roy Acuff (host); Alison Krauss
10:30: Grandpa Jones (host); Jan Howard; Charlie Walker
10:45: Bill Anderson (host); Ray Pillow; Opry Square Dance Band; Stoney Mountain Cloggers
11:00: Hank Snow (host); Jim & Jesse; Justin Tubb; 4 Guys; Jimmy C Newman
11:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Roy Drusky; Jack Greene; Johnny Russell
Looking back, it was on Saturday October 28, 1989 that Grand Ole Opry member, and legend, Bill Monroe was honored as an Opry member for 50 years. Bill originally came to the Opry in October 1939 and brought bluegrass music with him. I don't think anyone can argue that Bill is one of the giants in the history of the Opry.
Here is the running order from 27 years ago, the night that Bill Monroe celebrated his 50th anniversary as a member of the Grand Ole Opry:
1st show
6:30: Mrs. Grissoms
Jim Ed Brown (host): Southern Loving
Jeannie Seely: I'll Be Around When It's Over
Jim Ed Brown: The Old Lamplighter
6:45: Rudy's
Jack Greene (host): Walking on New Grass
Jeanne Pruett: I Ought a Feel Guilty
Jack Greene: There Goes My Everything/Statue of a Fool
7:00: Shoney's
Jimmy Dickens (host): Me & My Big Loud Mouth
Charlie Louvin: Stormy Horizons
Ray Pillow: Congratulations
Connie Smith: Walkin After Midnight
New Coon Creek Girls: Night Train to Memphis
Jimmy Dickens: I Love Lucy Brown/Sleepin at the Foot of the Bed
7:30: Standard Candy
Bill Monroe (host): Mule Skinner Blues
Emmylou Harris & Bill Monroe: Kentucky Waltz/My Rose of Kentucky
Larry Cordle: Kentucky King
Bill Monroe & Emmylou Harris: Blue Moon of Kentucky
Bill Monroe: Rawhide
8:00: Martha White
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Jean Shepard: Are You Teasing Me/I'll Sail My Ship Alone
Roy Drusky: New Lips/One Day at a Time
Bill Carlisle: Oh, What A Party
Opry Square Dance Band/Stoney Mountain Cloggers: Dance All Night
Roy Acuff: I'll Fly Away
8:30: Music Valley
Hank Snow (host): A Vanishing Breed
Billy Grammer: Gotta Travel On
Charlie Walker: Pick Me Up On Your Way Down
Dottie West: Are You Happy Baby/Together Again
Hank Snow: I'm Glad I Got to See You Once Again
2nd show
9:30: Dollar General
Jim Ed Brown (host): Pop A Top
Jeannie Seely: Tell Me Again
Ray Pillow: Lucky Me
Jeanne Pruett: Satin Sheets
Charlie Louvin: My Baby's Gone
Jim Ed Brown: The 3 Bells
10:00: Little Debbie
Jack Greene (host): Until My Dreams Come True
Jan Howard: Slow Burning Memory
Jack Greene: The Last Letter
10:15: Sunbeam
Roy Acuff (host): Sunshine Special
Jimmy Dickens: Take An Old Cold Tater/Out Behind the Barn
Roy Acuff: I Saw the Light
10:30: Pet Milk
Billy Walker (host): Down to My Last Cigarette
Connie Smith: Amazing Grace
Billy Walker: Behind Closed Doors/Charlie's Shoes
10:45: B.C. Powder
Bill Monroe (host): Its' Mighty Dark for Me to Travel
Jean Shepard: So Used to Loving You
Opry Square Dance Band/Stoney Mountain Cloggers: Sugar in the Goard
Bill Monroe: Sugar Loaf Mountain
11:00: Coca-Cola
Hank Snow (host): Why Do You Punish Me
Justin Tubb: Walking, Talking, Crying, Barely Beating Broken Heart
New Coon Creek Girls: How Many Biscuits Can You Eat
Dottie West: Here Comes My Baby
Dottie West & T. Tolliver: Everytime 2 Fools Collide
Hank Snow: The Party of the Second Part
11:30: Creamette
Charlie Walker (host):Does Ft. Worth Ever Cross Your Mind
Billy Grammer: Somebody Loves You
Roy Drusky: What About You
Bill Carlisle: Hand Me Down My Walking Cane
Charlie Walker: Cindy
What I found interesting on that night was that considering Bill Monroe was the "Father of Bluegrass" and such an influence on so many others, that only Emmylou Harris and Larry Cordle took part on the televised tribute to Bill. I would have expected to see a few more that night. Also, Larry Cordle's "Kentucky King" performance from that night is on YouTube. And it includes a great introduction by Grant Turner, who was the master of ceremonies for the televised portion.
I hope everyone enjoys the Opry this weekend!!
Tuesday, October 25, 2016
Tuesday Night Opry 10/25 & Wednesday Night Opry 10/26
One of the great things that the Grand Ole Opry management does every year is to support October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Among the activities that the Opry does is the annual "Opry Goes Pink" night, where the switch is pulled and the Opry backdrop goes pink. The show this year will take place tonight, Tuesday October 25 and there are two shows scheduled:
1st show
7:00: Jeannie Seely; Mickey Guyton; Montgomery Gentry
Intermission
8:00: Hillary Scott & The Scott Family; Chris Young; Jason Aldean
2nd show
9:30: Jeannie Seely; Mickey Guyton; Montgomery Gentry
10:30: Hillary Scott & The Scott Family; Chris Young; Jason Aldean
Additionally, this year the Opry has added a Wednesday night show, highlighted by Martina McBride and in support for the "Band Against Cancer: The Sarah Cannon Tour."
7:00: John Conlee; Scotty McCreery
7:30: Cassadee Pope; The Cadillac Three
Intermission
8:15: Charles Esten; Little Big Town
8:45: Martina McBride
Two very worthwhile mid-week shows at the Grand Ole Opry House that continue to bring awareness to breast cancer, the survivors and the victims.
1st show
7:00: Jeannie Seely; Mickey Guyton; Montgomery Gentry
Intermission
8:00: Hillary Scott & The Scott Family; Chris Young; Jason Aldean
2nd show
9:30: Jeannie Seely; Mickey Guyton; Montgomery Gentry
10:30: Hillary Scott & The Scott Family; Chris Young; Jason Aldean
Additionally, this year the Opry has added a Wednesday night show, highlighted by Martina McBride and in support for the "Band Against Cancer: The Sarah Cannon Tour."
7:00: John Conlee; Scotty McCreery
7:30: Cassadee Pope; The Cadillac Three
Intermission
8:15: Charles Esten; Little Big Town
8:45: Martina McBride
Two very worthwhile mid-week shows at the Grand Ole Opry House that continue to bring awareness to breast cancer, the survivors and the victims.
Thursday, October 20, 2016
Grand Ole Opry 10/21 & 10/22
Before getting into the Grand Ole Opry line-ups for this week, I wanted to pass along birthday greetings to Louie Roberts, who turns 60 on Friday October 21. Many of you probably remember Louie, who was a regular performer on the Opry, usually appearing on segments hosted by Marty Robbins. Just to bring everyone up to date, beginning in 1978 he moved to Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, appearing on The Bonnie Lou and Buster Smokey Mountain Hayride Show, and then Adloff's Starlight Jamboree. Then in 1989, he went to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina and began working with Calvin Gilmore's Carolina Opry Shows, where he was until 2012, when he retired professionally from the business. Louie, who has been married for 35 years and has 3 children, is currently a worship leader at his church in White House, Tennessee, just north of Nashville.
And I would be remiss if I didn't remind everyone that Louie is the son of the legendary Kayton Roberts. Happy Birthday Louie Roberts!!!
I also wanted to mention that Grand Ole Opry member Randy Travis made a special appearance on the Tuesday Night Opry this past week, where he was presented with his Opry membership award. Randy, who also made a guest appearance at the Nashville Palace on Saturday night, was in town for his formal induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame, which took place Sunday evening.
As to the Grand Ole Opry line-up this weekend, if you had to pick which night to attend, Saturday would be the night. Making a guest appearance on the Opry will be Marie Osmond and John Schneider. Opry records are a little bit sketchy at times when it comes to guest appearances, so I can't confirm if this is Marie's first appearance or not. I know she had her big country hit, "Paper Roses" back in the early 1970's, and she enjoyed success as a duo with Dan Seals in the 80's. I scanned my records and on first glance, I didn't come up with a previous appearance by Marie. Someone might know otherwise. One act that I know is making their Opry debut, also on Saturday, are the Turnpike Troubadours. The Turnpike Troubadours are described as a American Red Dirt Group out of Oklahoma, who have released three studio albums in the past decade. They are appearing on the Opry as a part of their current tour. Joining them on Saturday will be "Nashville" star Clare Bowen, along with Mark O'Connor and his band.
Mark O'Connor is also scheduled for the Friday Night Opry, where he will be joined by Jimmy Wayne, TG Sheppard, Chris Janson and Dan Layus. For Dan, this will also be his Grand Ole Opry debut, and he will be appearing on the Opry the same day that his new record, "Dangerous Things" is being released. As to Chris Janson, this will be another in a long string of guest appearances for Chris.
As far as Opry members this weekend, there are only two scheduled for Friday night, Connie Smith and Mike Snider. Mike is back for both shows on Saturday, where he will be joined by Jeannie Seely, Bill Anderson and Ricky Skaggs. Connie is also back on Saturday, but just for the first show, and also scheduled for the early show is Jesse McReynolds, while The Whites and Bobby Osborne are set for the late show.
Getting back to the Friday Night Opry, it is again very disappointing to see just 8 acts scheduled and only 2 Opry members. That might be OK for Tuesday or Wednesday, but it is unacceptable for a Friday night show. Not to take anything away from the artists who are scheduled to perform, as I know they will all do a great job, but would you pay $95 to see that line-up? You will after January 1st. But as more of the Opry's members pass away, or decline to appear, I am afraid that what we see scheduled for Friday night will become the new normal at the Opry.
Friday October 21
7:00: Connie Smith; Shelly Skidmore
7:30: Mike Snider; Jimmy Wayne
Intermission
8:15: TG Sheppard; Dan Layus
8:45: O'Connor Band w/Mark O'Connor; Chris Janson
Saturday October 22
1st show
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Clare Bowen; Mike Snider
7:30: Connie Smith (host); Turnpike Troubadours; Jesse McReynolds
8:00: Bill Anderson (host); O'Connor Band w/Mark O'Connor; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Ricky Skaggs (host); Marie Osmond; John Schneider
2nd show
9:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Clare Bowen; Mike Snider
10:00: The Whites (host); Turnpike Troubadours; Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press
10:30: Bill Anderson (host); O'Connor Band w/Mark O'Connor; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Ricky Skaggs(host); Marie Osmond; John Schneider
And now, here is the posted Grand Ole Opry line-up from five years ago this weekend, October 21 & 22. 2011. The 8:00 segment of the 1st show on Saturday was televised on GAC, thus no host.
Friday October 21
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Jimmy C Newman; Jim Ed Brown; Rebecca Lynn Howard
7:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Mandy Barnett
Intermission
8:15: Riders In The Sky (host); The Whites; Mountain Heart
8:45: Mike Snider (host); Whitney Duncan; Ray Price
Saturday October 22
1st show
7:00: Jimmy Dickens (host); Mike Snider; Jeff & Sheri Easter
7:30: Bill Anderson (host); Connie Smith; Ronnie Milsap
8:00: Lauren Alaina; Edens Edge; Kellie Pickler; Martina McBride
2nd show
9:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); The Whites; Kellie Pickler
10:00: Mike Snider (host); Edens Edge; Ronnie Milsap
10:30: Bill Anderson (host); Jeannie Seely; Lauren Alaina; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Riders In The Sky (host); Jesse McReynolds; Connie Smith; Jeff & Sheri Easter
Now from ten years ago, the weekend of October 20 & 21, 2006. This was also the weekend of the Opry's 81st birthday bash.
Friday October 20
1st show
7:00: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jimmy C Newman; Charlie Walker; Heartland
7:30: Ricky Skaggs (host); Connie Smith; The Whites; Earl Scruggs
8:00: Mike Snider (host); John Conlee; Jean Shepard; Chris Young
8:30: Bill Anderson (host); Restless Heart; Charley Pride
2nd show
9:30: Ricky Skaggs (host); Connie Smith; The Whites; Earl Scruggs
10:00: Jimmy Dickens (host); Mike Snider; Heartland
10:30: John Conlee (host); Chris Young; Charley Pride
11:00: Bill Anderson (host); Jean Shepard; Restless Heart
Saturday October 21
6:30; Jean Shepard (host); Jimmy C Newman; The Whites
7:00: Jimmy Dickens (host); Trisha Yearwood; Travis Tritt; LeAnn Rimes; Charley Pride
8:00: Mike Snider (host); Stu Phillips; Jim Ed Brown w/Helen Cornelius; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Hal Ketchum (host); Jack Greene; Del McCoury Band
2nd show
9:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); The Whites; Trisha Yearwood
10:00: Mike Snider (host); Jimmy C Newman; Travis Tritt
10:30: Jean Shepard (host); Jan Howard; LeAnn Rimes; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Hal Ketchum (host); Charlie Louvin; Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press
11:30: Jim Ed Brown (host) w/Helen Cornelius; Jack Greene; Del McCoury Band
Finally from 25 years ago, the weekend of October 18 & 19, 1991. The Friday Night Opry was the final night that Grant Turner announced the Opry as he passed away early the following morning.
Friday October 18
1st show
6:30: Bill Anderson (host); Skeeter Davis; Jim & Jesse; Hank Locklin; Ray Pillow
7:00: Porter Wagoner (host); 4 Guys; Jean Shepard; Riders In The Sky; The Whites
7:30: Roy Acuff (host); Grandpa Jones; Connie Smith; Roy Clark
8:00: Bill Monroe (host); Jimmy Dickens; Jimmy C Newman; Osborne Brothers
8:30: Hank Snow (host); Jan Howard; George Hamilton IV; Bill Carlisle
2nd show
9:30: Porter Wagoner (host); Charlie Walker; Riders In The Sky; Jean Shepard; Stonewall Jackson
10:00: Roy Acuff (host); 4 Guys; Bill Anderson; Roy Clark
10:30: Bill Monroe (host); Jim & Jesse; The Whites; Desert Rose Band
11:00: Hank Snow (host); Osborne Brothers; Jimmy Dickens; Connie Smith
11:30: Grandpa Jones (host); Jan Howard; Bill Carlisle; George Hamilton IV; Jimmy C Newman
Saturday October 19
1st show
6:30: Porter Wagoner (host); Jan Howard
6:45: Grandpa Jones (host); Jim & Jesse; Bill Carlisle
7:00: Bill Monroe (host); Hank Locklin; Skeeter Davis; Charlie Walker; The Whites
7:30: Roy Clark (host); Billy Grammer; George Hamilton IV; Jean Shepard; Stonewall Jackson
8:00: Roy Acuff (host); Connie Smith; Bill Anderson; Opry Square Dance Band; Melvin Sloan Dancers
8:30: Hank Snow (host); Charlie Louvin; Osborne Brothers; Ray Pillow; Jimmy Dickens
2nd show
9:30: Porter Wagoner (host); Skeeter Davis; The Whites; Hank Locklin; Billy Grammer
10:00: Bill Anderson (host); Jim & Jesse
10:15: Roy Acuff (host); Roy Clark
10:30: Bill Monroe (host); Jean Shepard
10:45: Grandpa Jones (host); Charlie Walker; Opry Square Dance Band; Melvin Sloan Dancers
11:00: Hank Snow (host); Connie Smith; Ray Pillow; George Hamilton IV
11:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Charlie Louvin; Bill Carlisle; Osborne Brothers
On Saturday October 21, 1967, the Grand Ole Opry celebrated its 42nd birthday and it was also the final night that The Browns performed as members of the Grand Ole Opry. Here is the running order from that night 49 years ago.
1st show
6:00: Vietti
Bill Anderson (host): Bright Lights and Country Music
Osborne Brothers: Roll Muddy River
Ernie Ashworth: Tender & True
Del Wood: Piano Roll Blues
Stu Phillips: Little Old Wine Drinker Me
Bill Anderson: I Get the Fever
Charlie Walker: Don't Squeeze My Sharmon
Jimmy Gately: Orange Blossom Special/She Wants to Be Like You
6:30: Mrs Grissoms
Bill Monroe (host): Uncle Pen
Willis Brothers: Bob
Cousin Jody: Mockingbird
Bill Monroe: Molly & Tenbrooks
6:45: Rudy's
Billy Walker (host): I Taught Her Everything She Knows
Stringbean: Gonna Make Myself A Name
Jim & Jesse: Ballad of Thunder Road
Billy Walker: Cattle Call
7:00: Luzianne
Porter Wagoner (host): Ol' Slewfoot
Hank Locklin: Country Hall of Fame
Bob Luman: Memphis
Minnie Pearl: Maple on the Hill
4 Guys: Walking in the Sunshine
Del Reeves: One Dime at a Time
Jeannie Seely: Don't Touch Me
Porter Wagoner: Cold Hard Facts of Life
7:30: Standard Candy
Roy Acuff (host): Ball Knob, Arkansas
Charlie Louvin: How Great Thou Art
Wilburn Brothers: Just to Be Where You Are
Loretta Lynn: What Kind of A Girl
Grandpa Jones: Old Dan Tucker
Bobby Lord: Shadows on the Wall
Bill Carlisle: Dr. R.D.
Ray Pillow: (?)
Roy Acuff: Cabin in Gloryland
8:00: Martha White
George Hamilton IV (host): Break My Mind
Jean Shepard: Happy Tracks
George Morgan: You're the Only Good Thing
The Browns: Looking Back to See/(?)/(?)/I Heard the Bluebird Sing/The Old Lamplighter/Scarlet Ribbons/The 3 Bells/Send Me the Pillow You Dream On
Crook Brothers: Cotton-Eyed Joe
Dottie West: Like A Fool
Jim Ed Brown: Pop A Top
George Hamilton IV: Truck Driving Man
8:30: Stephens
Ernest Tubb (host): Thanks A Lot
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper: Big Midnight Special
Tex Ritter: Just Beyond the Moon
Archie Campbell: The Cockfight
Glaser Brothers: Gone on the Other Hand
Skeeter Davis: The End of the World
Billy Grammer: Mabel
Margie Bowes: Bo Weevil
2nd show
9:30: Kellogg's
Hank Snow (host) I'm Moving On
Bill Monroe: You'll Find Her Name Written There
Bill Anderson: I Love You Drops
Marion Worth: A Woman Needs Love
Willis Brothers: Give Me 40 Acres
Grandpa Jones: Kitty Klyde
Del Wood: Waiting for the Robert E Lee
Norma Jean: Jackson Ain't A Very Happy Place
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Cacklin' Hen
Hank Snow: There's a Fool Such as I
10:00: Schick
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Wilburn Brothers: Troubles Back in Town
Loretta Lynn: What Kind of A Girl
Stringbean: Gonna Make Myself a Name
Jim & Jesse: Diesel on My Tail
Roy Acuff: The Great Speckled Bird
10:15: Pure
Ernest Tubb (host) w/Loretta Lynn: Sweet Thang
Bobby Lord: Look What You're Doing to You
Charlie Louvin & Bobby Osborne: When I Stop Dreaming
Stu Phillips: Juanita Jones
10:30: Buckley's
Hank Snow (host): I've Been Everywhere
Skeeter Davis: What Does it Take
George Hamilton IV: Urge for Going
Jim Ed Brown: Bottle; Bottle
Hank Snow: (?)
10:45: Newport
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper (host): The Birds are Back
George Morgan: Misty Blue
Crook Brothers: Old Joe Clark
Margie Bowes: Overnight
Osborne Brothers: Roll Muddy River
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper: There's A Big Wheel
11:00: Coca-Cola
Porter Wagoner (host): Dooley
Tex Ritter: A Working Man's Prayer
Jean Shepard: I Don't See How I Can Make It
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Devil's Dream
Hank Locklin: Country Hall of Fame
Sam McGee: (?)
4 Guys: Ruby
Del Reeves: Chug-A-Lug
Porter Wagoner: Julie
11:30: Lava
Roy Drusky (host): White Lightening Express
Bill Carlisle: No Help Wanted
Glaser Brothers: Through the Eyes of Love
Marion Worth: Tennessee Waltz
Ernie Ashworth: My Love for You
Ray Pillow: Take Your Hands off My Heart
Charlie Walker: Don't Squeeze My Sharmon
Roy Drusky: Anymore/Strangers; Second Hand Rose
Now that is a birthday show for you!! The Opry that night started at 6:00 and as you would expect with so many artists on the schedule, it did not end on time. In fact, the second show did not end until after 1:00 am.
As I mentioned, this was the final night that The Browns performed as members of the Grand Ole Opry. Jim Ed, Maxine, and Bonnie joined the Opry on August 12, 1963. Originally from Arkansas, Jim Ed and Maxine began appearing on local radio while still in high school. By the time Jim Ed was in college, they were appearing as regulars on the "Barnyard Frolic" on Little Rock radio station KLRA. In 1954, they had their first country hit, "Looking Back to See." The following year, younger sister Bonnie joined them and they became The Browns, scoring another Top 10 hit with "Here Today and Gone Tomorrow." The group signed with RCA in 1956 and quickly had two more hits, "I Take the Chance" and "I Heard the Bluebird Sing."
After serving two years in the service, Jim Ed returned to join his sisters again and in 1959 they had their signature song and career hit, "The Three Bells." The song was No. 1 on the country charts for 10 weeks and on the pop charts for four weeks. They followed that up with "The Old Lamplighter" and "Scarlet Ribbons," both of which were also pop/country hits.
By the mid-1960's, Bonnie and Maxine decided to retire in order to be with their families and raise their children, after which Jim Ed continued on with his solo career. Even though Bonnie and Maxine retired from active performing and recording, they would still appear on occasion with Jim Ed on the Opry and at other selected venues. In 2015, The Browns were elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame. Jim Ed passed away in 2015, while Bonnie died earlier this year.
I hope everyone enjoys the Opry this weekend!!
And I would be remiss if I didn't remind everyone that Louie is the son of the legendary Kayton Roberts. Happy Birthday Louie Roberts!!!
I also wanted to mention that Grand Ole Opry member Randy Travis made a special appearance on the Tuesday Night Opry this past week, where he was presented with his Opry membership award. Randy, who also made a guest appearance at the Nashville Palace on Saturday night, was in town for his formal induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame, which took place Sunday evening.
As to the Grand Ole Opry line-up this weekend, if you had to pick which night to attend, Saturday would be the night. Making a guest appearance on the Opry will be Marie Osmond and John Schneider. Opry records are a little bit sketchy at times when it comes to guest appearances, so I can't confirm if this is Marie's first appearance or not. I know she had her big country hit, "Paper Roses" back in the early 1970's, and she enjoyed success as a duo with Dan Seals in the 80's. I scanned my records and on first glance, I didn't come up with a previous appearance by Marie. Someone might know otherwise. One act that I know is making their Opry debut, also on Saturday, are the Turnpike Troubadours. The Turnpike Troubadours are described as a American Red Dirt Group out of Oklahoma, who have released three studio albums in the past decade. They are appearing on the Opry as a part of their current tour. Joining them on Saturday will be "Nashville" star Clare Bowen, along with Mark O'Connor and his band.
Mark O'Connor is also scheduled for the Friday Night Opry, where he will be joined by Jimmy Wayne, TG Sheppard, Chris Janson and Dan Layus. For Dan, this will also be his Grand Ole Opry debut, and he will be appearing on the Opry the same day that his new record, "Dangerous Things" is being released. As to Chris Janson, this will be another in a long string of guest appearances for Chris.
As far as Opry members this weekend, there are only two scheduled for Friday night, Connie Smith and Mike Snider. Mike is back for both shows on Saturday, where he will be joined by Jeannie Seely, Bill Anderson and Ricky Skaggs. Connie is also back on Saturday, but just for the first show, and also scheduled for the early show is Jesse McReynolds, while The Whites and Bobby Osborne are set for the late show.
Getting back to the Friday Night Opry, it is again very disappointing to see just 8 acts scheduled and only 2 Opry members. That might be OK for Tuesday or Wednesday, but it is unacceptable for a Friday night show. Not to take anything away from the artists who are scheduled to perform, as I know they will all do a great job, but would you pay $95 to see that line-up? You will after January 1st. But as more of the Opry's members pass away, or decline to appear, I am afraid that what we see scheduled for Friday night will become the new normal at the Opry.
Friday October 21
7:00: Connie Smith; Shelly Skidmore
7:30: Mike Snider; Jimmy Wayne
Intermission
8:15: TG Sheppard; Dan Layus
8:45: O'Connor Band w/Mark O'Connor; Chris Janson
Saturday October 22
1st show
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Clare Bowen; Mike Snider
7:30: Connie Smith (host); Turnpike Troubadours; Jesse McReynolds
8:00: Bill Anderson (host); O'Connor Band w/Mark O'Connor; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Ricky Skaggs (host); Marie Osmond; John Schneider
2nd show
9:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Clare Bowen; Mike Snider
10:00: The Whites (host); Turnpike Troubadours; Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press
10:30: Bill Anderson (host); O'Connor Band w/Mark O'Connor; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Ricky Skaggs(host); Marie Osmond; John Schneider
And now, here is the posted Grand Ole Opry line-up from five years ago this weekend, October 21 & 22. 2011. The 8:00 segment of the 1st show on Saturday was televised on GAC, thus no host.
Friday October 21
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Jimmy C Newman; Jim Ed Brown; Rebecca Lynn Howard
7:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Mandy Barnett
Intermission
8:15: Riders In The Sky (host); The Whites; Mountain Heart
8:45: Mike Snider (host); Whitney Duncan; Ray Price
Saturday October 22
1st show
7:00: Jimmy Dickens (host); Mike Snider; Jeff & Sheri Easter
7:30: Bill Anderson (host); Connie Smith; Ronnie Milsap
8:00: Lauren Alaina; Edens Edge; Kellie Pickler; Martina McBride
2nd show
9:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); The Whites; Kellie Pickler
10:00: Mike Snider (host); Edens Edge; Ronnie Milsap
10:30: Bill Anderson (host); Jeannie Seely; Lauren Alaina; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Riders In The Sky (host); Jesse McReynolds; Connie Smith; Jeff & Sheri Easter
Now from ten years ago, the weekend of October 20 & 21, 2006. This was also the weekend of the Opry's 81st birthday bash.
Friday October 20
1st show
7:00: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jimmy C Newman; Charlie Walker; Heartland
7:30: Ricky Skaggs (host); Connie Smith; The Whites; Earl Scruggs
8:00: Mike Snider (host); John Conlee; Jean Shepard; Chris Young
8:30: Bill Anderson (host); Restless Heart; Charley Pride
2nd show
9:30: Ricky Skaggs (host); Connie Smith; The Whites; Earl Scruggs
10:00: Jimmy Dickens (host); Mike Snider; Heartland
10:30: John Conlee (host); Chris Young; Charley Pride
11:00: Bill Anderson (host); Jean Shepard; Restless Heart
Saturday October 21
6:30; Jean Shepard (host); Jimmy C Newman; The Whites
7:00: Jimmy Dickens (host); Trisha Yearwood; Travis Tritt; LeAnn Rimes; Charley Pride
8:00: Mike Snider (host); Stu Phillips; Jim Ed Brown w/Helen Cornelius; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Hal Ketchum (host); Jack Greene; Del McCoury Band
2nd show
9:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); The Whites; Trisha Yearwood
10:00: Mike Snider (host); Jimmy C Newman; Travis Tritt
10:30: Jean Shepard (host); Jan Howard; LeAnn Rimes; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Hal Ketchum (host); Charlie Louvin; Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press
11:30: Jim Ed Brown (host) w/Helen Cornelius; Jack Greene; Del McCoury Band
Finally from 25 years ago, the weekend of October 18 & 19, 1991. The Friday Night Opry was the final night that Grant Turner announced the Opry as he passed away early the following morning.
Friday October 18
1st show
6:30: Bill Anderson (host); Skeeter Davis; Jim & Jesse; Hank Locklin; Ray Pillow
7:00: Porter Wagoner (host); 4 Guys; Jean Shepard; Riders In The Sky; The Whites
7:30: Roy Acuff (host); Grandpa Jones; Connie Smith; Roy Clark
8:00: Bill Monroe (host); Jimmy Dickens; Jimmy C Newman; Osborne Brothers
8:30: Hank Snow (host); Jan Howard; George Hamilton IV; Bill Carlisle
2nd show
9:30: Porter Wagoner (host); Charlie Walker; Riders In The Sky; Jean Shepard; Stonewall Jackson
10:00: Roy Acuff (host); 4 Guys; Bill Anderson; Roy Clark
10:30: Bill Monroe (host); Jim & Jesse; The Whites; Desert Rose Band
11:00: Hank Snow (host); Osborne Brothers; Jimmy Dickens; Connie Smith
11:30: Grandpa Jones (host); Jan Howard; Bill Carlisle; George Hamilton IV; Jimmy C Newman
Saturday October 19
1st show
6:30: Porter Wagoner (host); Jan Howard
6:45: Grandpa Jones (host); Jim & Jesse; Bill Carlisle
7:00: Bill Monroe (host); Hank Locklin; Skeeter Davis; Charlie Walker; The Whites
7:30: Roy Clark (host); Billy Grammer; George Hamilton IV; Jean Shepard; Stonewall Jackson
8:00: Roy Acuff (host); Connie Smith; Bill Anderson; Opry Square Dance Band; Melvin Sloan Dancers
8:30: Hank Snow (host); Charlie Louvin; Osborne Brothers; Ray Pillow; Jimmy Dickens
2nd show
9:30: Porter Wagoner (host); Skeeter Davis; The Whites; Hank Locklin; Billy Grammer
10:00: Bill Anderson (host); Jim & Jesse
10:15: Roy Acuff (host); Roy Clark
10:30: Bill Monroe (host); Jean Shepard
10:45: Grandpa Jones (host); Charlie Walker; Opry Square Dance Band; Melvin Sloan Dancers
11:00: Hank Snow (host); Connie Smith; Ray Pillow; George Hamilton IV
11:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Charlie Louvin; Bill Carlisle; Osborne Brothers
On Saturday October 21, 1967, the Grand Ole Opry celebrated its 42nd birthday and it was also the final night that The Browns performed as members of the Grand Ole Opry. Here is the running order from that night 49 years ago.
1st show
6:00: Vietti
Bill Anderson (host): Bright Lights and Country Music
Osborne Brothers: Roll Muddy River
Ernie Ashworth: Tender & True
Del Wood: Piano Roll Blues
Stu Phillips: Little Old Wine Drinker Me
Bill Anderson: I Get the Fever
Charlie Walker: Don't Squeeze My Sharmon
Jimmy Gately: Orange Blossom Special/She Wants to Be Like You
6:30: Mrs Grissoms
Bill Monroe (host): Uncle Pen
Willis Brothers: Bob
Cousin Jody: Mockingbird
Bill Monroe: Molly & Tenbrooks
6:45: Rudy's
Billy Walker (host): I Taught Her Everything She Knows
Stringbean: Gonna Make Myself A Name
Jim & Jesse: Ballad of Thunder Road
Billy Walker: Cattle Call
7:00: Luzianne
Porter Wagoner (host): Ol' Slewfoot
Hank Locklin: Country Hall of Fame
Bob Luman: Memphis
Minnie Pearl: Maple on the Hill
4 Guys: Walking in the Sunshine
Del Reeves: One Dime at a Time
Jeannie Seely: Don't Touch Me
Porter Wagoner: Cold Hard Facts of Life
7:30: Standard Candy
Roy Acuff (host): Ball Knob, Arkansas
Charlie Louvin: How Great Thou Art
Wilburn Brothers: Just to Be Where You Are
Loretta Lynn: What Kind of A Girl
Grandpa Jones: Old Dan Tucker
Bobby Lord: Shadows on the Wall
Bill Carlisle: Dr. R.D.
Ray Pillow: (?)
Roy Acuff: Cabin in Gloryland
8:00: Martha White
George Hamilton IV (host): Break My Mind
Jean Shepard: Happy Tracks
George Morgan: You're the Only Good Thing
The Browns: Looking Back to See/(?)/(?)/I Heard the Bluebird Sing/The Old Lamplighter/Scarlet Ribbons/The 3 Bells/Send Me the Pillow You Dream On
Crook Brothers: Cotton-Eyed Joe
Dottie West: Like A Fool
Jim Ed Brown: Pop A Top
George Hamilton IV: Truck Driving Man
8:30: Stephens
Ernest Tubb (host): Thanks A Lot
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper: Big Midnight Special
Tex Ritter: Just Beyond the Moon
Archie Campbell: The Cockfight
Glaser Brothers: Gone on the Other Hand
Skeeter Davis: The End of the World
Billy Grammer: Mabel
Margie Bowes: Bo Weevil
2nd show
9:30: Kellogg's
Hank Snow (host) I'm Moving On
Bill Monroe: You'll Find Her Name Written There
Bill Anderson: I Love You Drops
Marion Worth: A Woman Needs Love
Willis Brothers: Give Me 40 Acres
Grandpa Jones: Kitty Klyde
Del Wood: Waiting for the Robert E Lee
Norma Jean: Jackson Ain't A Very Happy Place
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Cacklin' Hen
Hank Snow: There's a Fool Such as I
10:00: Schick
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Wilburn Brothers: Troubles Back in Town
Loretta Lynn: What Kind of A Girl
Stringbean: Gonna Make Myself a Name
Jim & Jesse: Diesel on My Tail
Roy Acuff: The Great Speckled Bird
10:15: Pure
Ernest Tubb (host) w/Loretta Lynn: Sweet Thang
Bobby Lord: Look What You're Doing to You
Charlie Louvin & Bobby Osborne: When I Stop Dreaming
Stu Phillips: Juanita Jones
10:30: Buckley's
Hank Snow (host): I've Been Everywhere
Skeeter Davis: What Does it Take
George Hamilton IV: Urge for Going
Jim Ed Brown: Bottle; Bottle
Hank Snow: (?)
10:45: Newport
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper (host): The Birds are Back
George Morgan: Misty Blue
Crook Brothers: Old Joe Clark
Margie Bowes: Overnight
Osborne Brothers: Roll Muddy River
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper: There's A Big Wheel
11:00: Coca-Cola
Porter Wagoner (host): Dooley
Tex Ritter: A Working Man's Prayer
Jean Shepard: I Don't See How I Can Make It
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Devil's Dream
Hank Locklin: Country Hall of Fame
Sam McGee: (?)
4 Guys: Ruby
Del Reeves: Chug-A-Lug
Porter Wagoner: Julie
11:30: Lava
Roy Drusky (host): White Lightening Express
Bill Carlisle: No Help Wanted
Glaser Brothers: Through the Eyes of Love
Marion Worth: Tennessee Waltz
Ernie Ashworth: My Love for You
Ray Pillow: Take Your Hands off My Heart
Charlie Walker: Don't Squeeze My Sharmon
Roy Drusky: Anymore/Strangers; Second Hand Rose
Now that is a birthday show for you!! The Opry that night started at 6:00 and as you would expect with so many artists on the schedule, it did not end on time. In fact, the second show did not end until after 1:00 am.
As I mentioned, this was the final night that The Browns performed as members of the Grand Ole Opry. Jim Ed, Maxine, and Bonnie joined the Opry on August 12, 1963. Originally from Arkansas, Jim Ed and Maxine began appearing on local radio while still in high school. By the time Jim Ed was in college, they were appearing as regulars on the "Barnyard Frolic" on Little Rock radio station KLRA. In 1954, they had their first country hit, "Looking Back to See." The following year, younger sister Bonnie joined them and they became The Browns, scoring another Top 10 hit with "Here Today and Gone Tomorrow." The group signed with RCA in 1956 and quickly had two more hits, "I Take the Chance" and "I Heard the Bluebird Sing."
After serving two years in the service, Jim Ed returned to join his sisters again and in 1959 they had their signature song and career hit, "The Three Bells." The song was No. 1 on the country charts for 10 weeks and on the pop charts for four weeks. They followed that up with "The Old Lamplighter" and "Scarlet Ribbons," both of which were also pop/country hits.
By the mid-1960's, Bonnie and Maxine decided to retire in order to be with their families and raise their children, after which Jim Ed continued on with his solo career. Even though Bonnie and Maxine retired from active performing and recording, they would still appear on occasion with Jim Ed on the Opry and at other selected venues. In 2015, The Browns were elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame. Jim Ed passed away in 2015, while Bonnie died earlier this year.
I hope everyone enjoys the Opry this weekend!!
Thursday, October 13, 2016
Grand Ole Opry 10/14 & 10/15
For those who are interested, Tom T Hall is having an estate sale in a few weeks as he is in the process of settling his estate and selling his long time home, Fox Hollow. Tom T is selling furniture, musical instruments and other memorabilia. If interested, there is information on various websites. And for those who might ask, Tom T is now considered retired and does no more personal appearances, and has not for several years.
Now for the Opry:
Coming off the 91st Birthday Bash, the Grand Ole Opry has posted the line-ups for the three shows this weekend, as the Opry continues with two shows on Saturday night. There are some interesting names listed, one of which is Grand Ole Opry member Roy Clark, who is scheduled for both shows on Saturday. For Roy, these will be his 4th and 5th appearances of 2016, which is the most he has appeared on the Opry since 2010.
Other Opry members joining Roy on Saturday night include Trace Adkins, Bill Anderson, Ricky Skaggs and, for the first show, Jesse McReynolds. Also scheduled are Jeannie Seely, Mike Snider and John Conlee, each of whom are also scheduled for Friday night. Joining Jeannie, Mike and John on Friday will be Connie Smith, The Whites and Bobby Osborne.
As far as guest artists, Friday night has Emily West, Flatt Lonesome, Mark Collie, Runaway Jane and Exile on the slate. Exile will return for both shows on Saturday night, joined by Ernie Haase & Signature Sound. For Runaway Jane, this will be the Opry debut for this female trio.
Friday October 14
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Emily West; Mike Snider
7:30: The Whites (host); T Graham Brown; Flatt Lonesome
Intermission
8:15: John Conlee (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Mark Collie
8:45: Connie Smith (host); Runaway Jane; Exile
Saturday October 15
1st show
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Ben & Sara; Mike Snider
7:30: John Conlee (host); Roy Clark; Exile
8:00: Ricky Skaggs (host); Ernie Haase & Signature Sound; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Bill Anderson (host); Jesse McReynolds; Trace Adkins
2nd show
9:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Ben & Sara; Mike Snider
10:00: John Conlee (host); Roy Clark; Exile
10:30: Ricky Skaggs (host); Ernie Haase & Signature Sound; Opry Square Dancers
11:00:Trace Adkins
That comes out to 11 acts on Friday night, 6 of whom are Opry members. On Saturday night, 10 acts on the first show, with 8 Opry members, and 9 for the 2nd show, 7 of which are part of the cast.
And now here is the posted Grand Ole Opry line-up from five years ago, the weekend of October 14 & 15, 2011:
Friday October 14
7:00: Jim Ed Brown (host); The Whites; Daryle Singletary
7:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Josh Turner
Intermission
8:15: Mike Snider (host); Jack Greene; Mandy Barnett
8:45: Larry Gatlin & The Gatlin Brothers (host); The Black Lillies; Mark Wills
Saturday October 15
1st show
7:00: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jimmy C Newman; Joey+Rory
7:30: Mike Snider (host); Jim Ed Brown; Elizabeth Cook
8:00: Jean Shepard (host); Jesse McReynolds; The Secret Sisters; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Bill Anderson (host); Jim Lauderdale; Oak Ridge Boys
2nd show
9:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jimmy C Newman; Joey+Rory
10:00: Mike Snider (host); Jim Ed Brown; Elizabeth Cook
10:30: Jean Shepard (host); Jan Howard; The Secret Sisters; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Bill Anderson (host); Jim Lauderdale; Oak Ridge Boys
Now from ten years ago, the weekend of October 13 & 15, 2006:
Friday October 13
8:00: Mike Snider (host); Connie Smith; Jan Howard; Rebecca Lynn Howard
8:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jean Shepard; The Whites; Katrina Elam
9:00: John Conlee (host); Marty Raybon; Andy Griggs
9:30: Lorrie Morgan (host); Larry Sparks; Brad Paisley
Saturday October 14
1st show
6:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); The Whites
7:00: Vince Gill (host); Rodney Crowell; Jenny Gill; Guy Clark; Patty Loveless
8:00: John Conlee (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Steve Wariner (host); Jim Ed Brown; Jack Greene
2nd show
9:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); The Whites
10:00: Vince Gill (host); Rodney Crowell; Jenny Gill; Guy Clark; Patty Loveless; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Steve Wariner (host); John Conlee
11:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); Jack Greene
And from 25 years ago, Saturday October 12, 1991:
1st show
6:30: Porter Wagoner (host); 4 Guys
6:45: Bill Monroe (host); Vic Willis Trio
7:00: Jack Greene (host); Skeeter Davis; The Whites
7:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Roy Drusky; Jan Howard; Sweethearts of the Rodeo
8:00: Roy Acuff (host); Bill Carlisle; Opry Square Dance Band; Stoney Mountain Cloggers; Randy Travis
8:30: Hank Snow (host); Jim Ed Brown; Charlie Louvin; Connie Smith; Mike Snider
2nd show
9:30: Porter Wagoner (host); 4 Guys; Skeeter Davis; The Whites
10:00: Bill Monroe (host); Jack Greene
10:15: Roy Acuff (host); Jan Howard
10:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Sweethearts of the Rodeo
10:45: Charlie Walker (host); Vic Willis Trio; Opry Square Dance Band; Stoney Mountain Cloggers
11:00: Hank Snow (host); Connie Smith; Justin Tubb; Randy Travis
11:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); Charlie Louvin; Bill Carlisle; Mike Snider
Looking back, it was 27 years ago, Saturday October 14, 1989, that Holly Dunn became a member of the Grand Ole Opry.
Holly Dunn was born on August 22, 1957. Prior to coming to Nashville, she performed in a band called Freedom Folk Singers, which toured across the south. She attended Abilene Christian University and performed in a group there called The Hilltoppers. After graduating from college, Holly moved to Nashville, working as a demo singer and then as a songwriter for CBS Records and MTM Records. In 1985, MTM signed her to a recording contract. After several singles that only reached the bottom of the charts, in 1986 Holly had her first hit with "Daddy's Hands" which went to #7 on the country charts. Her following album, "Cornerstone" produced three Top 10 hits "Love Someone Like Me," "Only When I Love," and "Strangers Again." in 1989, after moving to Warner Bros. Records, she had her first number 1 hit "Are You Ever Gonna Love Me." Her only other #1 single was "You Really Had Me Going," released in 1990.
After Warner Bros. Records released her greatest hits album in 1993, she left the label, signing with River North Records, however the two albums she released failed to produce any hits. In the late 1990's, she left Nashville, moved to Detroit and became the morning show co-host on WWWW radio. This was not her first experience behind a microphone as she had worked as a DJ during her college years. After returning to Nashville, she was a co-host on "Opry Backstage" on The Nashville Network in 2001-02.
In 2003, Holly announced her retirement from her musical career to devote full time to art, releasing a final album "Full Circle" in 2003. She relocated to Santa Fe, New Mexico. Shortly after leaving Nashville, the Opry terminated her membership. Holly currently is undergoing treatment for ovarian cancer.
Here is the running order from Saturday October 14, 1989, the night that Holly Dunn became an Opry member. It was also the Opry's 64th birthday celebration.
1st show
6:30: Mrs. Grissoms
Jimmy Dickens (host): May the Bird of Paradise Fly Up Your Nose
Skeeter Davis: The End of the World
Jimmy Dickens: When Your House is Not a Home
6:45: Rudy's
Stonewall Jackson (host): Me & You & A Dog Named Boo
Jeanne Pruett: Satin Sheets
Stonewall Jackson: Don't Be Angry
7:00: Shoney's
Bill Monroe (host): Gonna Have a Feast Tonight
Charlie Louvin: The Precious Jewel
Jan Howard: The One You Slip Around With
Charlie Walker: Pick Me Up on Your Way Down
Jean Shepard: I'm Just an Old Bridge That Keeps Burning
Bill Monroe: On the Old Kentucky Shore
Blake Williams: Bluegrass Breakdown
7:30: Standard Candy
Jack Greene (host): Statue of a Fool
The Whites: Pins & Needles/He Hasn't Lost His Touch
Holly Dunn: Daddy's Hands/There Goes My Heart Again
Jack Greene/Minnie Pearl and Opry Cast: Happy Birthday Grand Ole Opry
Jack Greene & Holly Dunn: Satisfied/I Saw the Light
8:00: Martha White
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Connie Smith: The Keys in the Mailbox
Minnie Pearl: Comedy
Pee Wee King: Tennessee Waltz
Porter Wagoner: Ol' Slewfoot
Opry Square Dance Band/Stoney Mountain Cloggers: Arkansas Traveler
Roy Acuff: I Saw the Light
8:30: Music Valley Merchants
Hank Snow (host): The Call of the Wild
Grandpa Jones: Old Blue
Roy Drusky: More & More
Hank Locklin: Send Me the Pillow You Dream On
Jeannie Seely: Don't Touch Me
Hank Snow: These Hands
2nd show
9:30: Dollar General
Porter Wagoner (host): Country Music Has Gone to Town
Ray Pillow: Til the Best Comes Along
Charlie Louvin: The Precious Jewel
Jean Shepard: I'll Sail My Ship Alone
The Whites: Alabama Jubilee
Porter Wagoner: Green, Green Grass of Home/I Thought I Heard You Calling My Name
10:00: Little Debbie
Jimmy Dickens (host): Me & My Big Loud Mouth
Holly Dunn: There Goes My Heart Again
Jimmy Dickens: Shopping for Dresses
10:15: Sunbeam
Roy Acuff (host): Meeting in the Air
Bill Carlisle: Knothole
Roy Acuff & Opry Cast: Happy Birthday Grand Ole Opry
10:30: Pet Milk
Bill Monroe (host): Stay Away From Me; You're Causing Me Trouble
Skeeter Davis: My Last Date with You/Silver Threads & Golden Needles
Bill Monroe: Down This Lonesome Highway
10:45: B.C. Powder
Grandpa Jones (host): Darby's Ram
Charlie Walker: Does Ft. Worth Every Cross Your Mind
Opry Square Dance Band/Stoney Mountain Cloggers: Sugar in the Goard
Grandpa Jones: Gone Home
11:00: Coca-Cola
Hank Snow (host): That Heart Belongs to Me
Jan Howard: Rock Me Back to Little Rock/Evil on Your Mind
Pee Wee King: Slowpoke
Justin Tubb: Walking; Talking; Cryin'; Barely Beating Broken Heart
Hank Snow: I Almost Lost My Mind
11:30: Creamette
Jack Greene (host): Walking on New Grass
Roy Drusky: Take Good Care of Her
Hank Locklin: Please Help Me I'm Falling
Connie Smith: You've Got Me Right Where You Want Me/Sing, Sing, Sing
Jack Greene: Don't You Ever Get Tired of Hurting Me
I always enjoyed Holly on the Opry and was sorry to see her leave. And our thoughts and prayers continue with Holly for a full recovery.
To finish up for this week, I wanted to recognize that it was 50 years ago Saturday, October 15, 1966 that Del Reeves became a member of the Grand Ole Opry.
Franklin Delano Reeves was born in Sparta, North Carolina and was the youngest of 11 children. By the age of 12, Del was playing a regular gig on a local Saturday radio show. He attended Appalachian State College in Boone, North Carolina, then served four years in the Air Force. While stationed at Travis Air Force Base he began writing songs, singing on country music television shows, and recording with Capital Records. After leaving the military, he stayed in California where he developed a strong reputation as a singer-songwriter-performer with songs recorded by Carl Smith and Roy Drusky. Friend and fellow songwriter Hank Cochran talked Del into moving to Nashville, which he did in 1962.
In 1965, United Artists released "Girl on the Billboard" which went to No. 1, sold a million copies and earned Del the nickname of The Doodle-Oo-Doo-Doo Kid. That same year, "The Belles of Southern Bell" was a Top 5 hit, and in 1966 "Women Do Funny Things to Me" went into the Top 10. Opry membership took place the same year and on the night of his induction, which was handled by Porter Wagoner, Del, whose parents were in the audience, burst into tears and could only sing the chorus and the end of his song.
In addition to having had more than 25 songs on the country charts, Del also hosted his own television show, "Del Reeves Country Carnival," and appeared in a number of movies. By the late 1970's, Del's hit making days were over and he would spend the next several decades touring and appearing on the Grand Ole Opry. Suffering from emphysema, Del made his last Opry appearance in August 2002, and passed away on January 1, 2007 at the age of 74.
To remember Del Reeves, here is the Grand Ole Opry running order from Saturday October 15, 1966, the night Del Reeves became a member of the Grand Ole Opry:
7:30: Luzianne
Jimmy Newman (host): Back Pocket Money
Willis Brothers: A 6 ft 2 by 4
Bob Luman: Come on and Sing
Jean Shepard: If Teardrops were Silver
Jimmy Newman: Cry, Cry, Darling
Del Wood: Melinda
Ernest Ashworth: Pushed In a Corner
Willis Brothers: Big Daddy's Alabammy Bound
Jimmy Newman: Bring Your Heart Home
8:00: Martha White
Flatt & Scruggs (host): Wonder If You're Lonesome, Too
Tex Ritter: High Noon
Bill Anderson: I Get the Fever
Stringbean: Hot Corn; Cold Corn
Flatt & Scruggs: Houston
Crook Brothers: 8th of January
Billy Grammer: The Real Thing
Flatt & Scruggs: Mama, You've Been on My Mind
Earl Scruggs: Lonesome Road Blues
8:30: Stephens
Porter Wagoner (host): 'Ol Slewfoot
George Morgan: Almost
George Hamilton IV: Early Morning Rain
Archie Campbell: Most Richly Blessed
Porter Wagoner: Green, Green Grass of Home
Del Reeves: Girl on the Billboard
Jeannie Seely: It's Only Love
Mac McGaha & Buck Trent: Turkey in the Straw
9:00: Pet Milk
Ernest Tubb (host): Driving Nails in My Coffin
Bill Monroe: The Walls of Time
Wilburn Brothers: Hurt Her Once for Me
Marion Worth: More Than You'll Ever Get
Ernest Tubb: Another Story
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Nubbing Ridge
Jack Greene: There Goes My Everything
Ernest Tubb: Slipping Around
9:30: Kellogg's
Bobby Lord (host): Cash on the Barrel Head
Willis Brothers: Diamonds on Your Hands
Ray Pillow: Volkswagen
Dottie West: Here Comes My Baby
Bobby Lord: Losers Like Me
Del Wood: Cajun Stripper
Cousin Jody: On Top of Old Smokey
Bobby Lord: That's All Right
10:00: Schick
Bill Anderson (host): I Love You Drops
George Hamilton IV: Truck Driving Man
Stringbean: 20 cent Cotton and 90 cent Meat
Bob Luman: Memphis
10:15: Pure
Porter Wagoner (host): Dooley
Jimmy Newman: A Fallen Star
Ernest Ashworth: At Ease Heart
Leon Butler: He'll Have to Go
Porter Wagoner: Howdy Neighbor Howdy
10:30: Harvey's
Flatt & Scruggs (host): Petticoat Junction
Jean Shepard: Second Fiddle
George Morgan: You're the Only Good Thing
Flatt & Scruggs: Ballad of Jed Clampett
10:45: Newport
Ernest Tubb (host): Thanks A Lot
Dottie West: Let Me Talk to You
Ray Pillow: I'd Fight the World
Crook Brothers: Greenback Dollar
Ernest Tubb: I'll Step Aside
11:00: Coca-Cola
Bill Monroe (host): Uncle Pen
Tex Ritter: I Dreamed of A Hillbilly Heaven
Wilburn Brothers: It's Another World
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Walking in My Sleep
Bill Monroe: Live & Let Live
Jeannie Seely: Don't Touch Me
Sam McGee: Steel Guitar Rag
Bill Monroe: A Used to Be
11:30: Lava
Marty Robbins (host): Ribbon of Darkness
Marion Worth: Every Since My Baby Went Away
Charlie Louvin: See the Big Man Cry
Billy Grammer: The Real Thing
Marty Robbins: The Shoe Goes on the Other Foot Tonight
Del Reeves: Belles of Southern Bell
Cousin Jody: Mocking Bird
Marty Robbins: Devil Woman/Bouquet of Roses/I Could Never Be Ashamed of You/Take These Chains from My Heart/Lovesick Blues/El Paso
There you have it. I hope all of you enjoyed the memories and look back and I hope everyone enjoys the Opry this week.
Now for the Opry:
Coming off the 91st Birthday Bash, the Grand Ole Opry has posted the line-ups for the three shows this weekend, as the Opry continues with two shows on Saturday night. There are some interesting names listed, one of which is Grand Ole Opry member Roy Clark, who is scheduled for both shows on Saturday. For Roy, these will be his 4th and 5th appearances of 2016, which is the most he has appeared on the Opry since 2010.
Other Opry members joining Roy on Saturday night include Trace Adkins, Bill Anderson, Ricky Skaggs and, for the first show, Jesse McReynolds. Also scheduled are Jeannie Seely, Mike Snider and John Conlee, each of whom are also scheduled for Friday night. Joining Jeannie, Mike and John on Friday will be Connie Smith, The Whites and Bobby Osborne.
As far as guest artists, Friday night has Emily West, Flatt Lonesome, Mark Collie, Runaway Jane and Exile on the slate. Exile will return for both shows on Saturday night, joined by Ernie Haase & Signature Sound. For Runaway Jane, this will be the Opry debut for this female trio.
Friday October 14
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Emily West; Mike Snider
7:30: The Whites (host); T Graham Brown; Flatt Lonesome
Intermission
8:15: John Conlee (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Mark Collie
8:45: Connie Smith (host); Runaway Jane; Exile
Saturday October 15
1st show
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Ben & Sara; Mike Snider
7:30: John Conlee (host); Roy Clark; Exile
8:00: Ricky Skaggs (host); Ernie Haase & Signature Sound; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Bill Anderson (host); Jesse McReynolds; Trace Adkins
2nd show
9:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Ben & Sara; Mike Snider
10:00: John Conlee (host); Roy Clark; Exile
10:30: Ricky Skaggs (host); Ernie Haase & Signature Sound; Opry Square Dancers
11:00:Trace Adkins
That comes out to 11 acts on Friday night, 6 of whom are Opry members. On Saturday night, 10 acts on the first show, with 8 Opry members, and 9 for the 2nd show, 7 of which are part of the cast.
And now here is the posted Grand Ole Opry line-up from five years ago, the weekend of October 14 & 15, 2011:
Friday October 14
7:00: Jim Ed Brown (host); The Whites; Daryle Singletary
7:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Josh Turner
Intermission
8:15: Mike Snider (host); Jack Greene; Mandy Barnett
8:45: Larry Gatlin & The Gatlin Brothers (host); The Black Lillies; Mark Wills
Saturday October 15
1st show
7:00: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jimmy C Newman; Joey+Rory
7:30: Mike Snider (host); Jim Ed Brown; Elizabeth Cook
8:00: Jean Shepard (host); Jesse McReynolds; The Secret Sisters; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Bill Anderson (host); Jim Lauderdale; Oak Ridge Boys
2nd show
9:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jimmy C Newman; Joey+Rory
10:00: Mike Snider (host); Jim Ed Brown; Elizabeth Cook
10:30: Jean Shepard (host); Jan Howard; The Secret Sisters; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Bill Anderson (host); Jim Lauderdale; Oak Ridge Boys
Now from ten years ago, the weekend of October 13 & 15, 2006:
Friday October 13
8:00: Mike Snider (host); Connie Smith; Jan Howard; Rebecca Lynn Howard
8:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jean Shepard; The Whites; Katrina Elam
9:00: John Conlee (host); Marty Raybon; Andy Griggs
9:30: Lorrie Morgan (host); Larry Sparks; Brad Paisley
Saturday October 14
1st show
6:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); The Whites
7:00: Vince Gill (host); Rodney Crowell; Jenny Gill; Guy Clark; Patty Loveless
8:00: John Conlee (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Steve Wariner (host); Jim Ed Brown; Jack Greene
2nd show
9:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); The Whites
10:00: Vince Gill (host); Rodney Crowell; Jenny Gill; Guy Clark; Patty Loveless; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Steve Wariner (host); John Conlee
11:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); Jack Greene
And from 25 years ago, Saturday October 12, 1991:
1st show
6:30: Porter Wagoner (host); 4 Guys
6:45: Bill Monroe (host); Vic Willis Trio
7:00: Jack Greene (host); Skeeter Davis; The Whites
7:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Roy Drusky; Jan Howard; Sweethearts of the Rodeo
8:00: Roy Acuff (host); Bill Carlisle; Opry Square Dance Band; Stoney Mountain Cloggers; Randy Travis
8:30: Hank Snow (host); Jim Ed Brown; Charlie Louvin; Connie Smith; Mike Snider
2nd show
9:30: Porter Wagoner (host); 4 Guys; Skeeter Davis; The Whites
10:00: Bill Monroe (host); Jack Greene
10:15: Roy Acuff (host); Jan Howard
10:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Sweethearts of the Rodeo
10:45: Charlie Walker (host); Vic Willis Trio; Opry Square Dance Band; Stoney Mountain Cloggers
11:00: Hank Snow (host); Connie Smith; Justin Tubb; Randy Travis
11:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); Charlie Louvin; Bill Carlisle; Mike Snider
Looking back, it was 27 years ago, Saturday October 14, 1989, that Holly Dunn became a member of the Grand Ole Opry.
Holly Dunn was born on August 22, 1957. Prior to coming to Nashville, she performed in a band called Freedom Folk Singers, which toured across the south. She attended Abilene Christian University and performed in a group there called The Hilltoppers. After graduating from college, Holly moved to Nashville, working as a demo singer and then as a songwriter for CBS Records and MTM Records. In 1985, MTM signed her to a recording contract. After several singles that only reached the bottom of the charts, in 1986 Holly had her first hit with "Daddy's Hands" which went to #7 on the country charts. Her following album, "Cornerstone" produced three Top 10 hits "Love Someone Like Me," "Only When I Love," and "Strangers Again." in 1989, after moving to Warner Bros. Records, she had her first number 1 hit "Are You Ever Gonna Love Me." Her only other #1 single was "You Really Had Me Going," released in 1990.
After Warner Bros. Records released her greatest hits album in 1993, she left the label, signing with River North Records, however the two albums she released failed to produce any hits. In the late 1990's, she left Nashville, moved to Detroit and became the morning show co-host on WWWW radio. This was not her first experience behind a microphone as she had worked as a DJ during her college years. After returning to Nashville, she was a co-host on "Opry Backstage" on The Nashville Network in 2001-02.
In 2003, Holly announced her retirement from her musical career to devote full time to art, releasing a final album "Full Circle" in 2003. She relocated to Santa Fe, New Mexico. Shortly after leaving Nashville, the Opry terminated her membership. Holly currently is undergoing treatment for ovarian cancer.
Here is the running order from Saturday October 14, 1989, the night that Holly Dunn became an Opry member. It was also the Opry's 64th birthday celebration.
1st show
6:30: Mrs. Grissoms
Jimmy Dickens (host): May the Bird of Paradise Fly Up Your Nose
Skeeter Davis: The End of the World
Jimmy Dickens: When Your House is Not a Home
6:45: Rudy's
Stonewall Jackson (host): Me & You & A Dog Named Boo
Jeanne Pruett: Satin Sheets
Stonewall Jackson: Don't Be Angry
7:00: Shoney's
Bill Monroe (host): Gonna Have a Feast Tonight
Charlie Louvin: The Precious Jewel
Jan Howard: The One You Slip Around With
Charlie Walker: Pick Me Up on Your Way Down
Jean Shepard: I'm Just an Old Bridge That Keeps Burning
Bill Monroe: On the Old Kentucky Shore
Blake Williams: Bluegrass Breakdown
7:30: Standard Candy
Jack Greene (host): Statue of a Fool
The Whites: Pins & Needles/He Hasn't Lost His Touch
Holly Dunn: Daddy's Hands/There Goes My Heart Again
Jack Greene/Minnie Pearl and Opry Cast: Happy Birthday Grand Ole Opry
Jack Greene & Holly Dunn: Satisfied/I Saw the Light
8:00: Martha White
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Connie Smith: The Keys in the Mailbox
Minnie Pearl: Comedy
Pee Wee King: Tennessee Waltz
Porter Wagoner: Ol' Slewfoot
Opry Square Dance Band/Stoney Mountain Cloggers: Arkansas Traveler
Roy Acuff: I Saw the Light
8:30: Music Valley Merchants
Hank Snow (host): The Call of the Wild
Grandpa Jones: Old Blue
Roy Drusky: More & More
Hank Locklin: Send Me the Pillow You Dream On
Jeannie Seely: Don't Touch Me
Hank Snow: These Hands
2nd show
9:30: Dollar General
Porter Wagoner (host): Country Music Has Gone to Town
Ray Pillow: Til the Best Comes Along
Charlie Louvin: The Precious Jewel
Jean Shepard: I'll Sail My Ship Alone
The Whites: Alabama Jubilee
Porter Wagoner: Green, Green Grass of Home/I Thought I Heard You Calling My Name
10:00: Little Debbie
Jimmy Dickens (host): Me & My Big Loud Mouth
Holly Dunn: There Goes My Heart Again
Jimmy Dickens: Shopping for Dresses
10:15: Sunbeam
Roy Acuff (host): Meeting in the Air
Bill Carlisle: Knothole
Roy Acuff & Opry Cast: Happy Birthday Grand Ole Opry
10:30: Pet Milk
Bill Monroe (host): Stay Away From Me; You're Causing Me Trouble
Skeeter Davis: My Last Date with You/Silver Threads & Golden Needles
Bill Monroe: Down This Lonesome Highway
10:45: B.C. Powder
Grandpa Jones (host): Darby's Ram
Charlie Walker: Does Ft. Worth Every Cross Your Mind
Opry Square Dance Band/Stoney Mountain Cloggers: Sugar in the Goard
Grandpa Jones: Gone Home
11:00: Coca-Cola
Hank Snow (host): That Heart Belongs to Me
Jan Howard: Rock Me Back to Little Rock/Evil on Your Mind
Pee Wee King: Slowpoke
Justin Tubb: Walking; Talking; Cryin'; Barely Beating Broken Heart
Hank Snow: I Almost Lost My Mind
11:30: Creamette
Jack Greene (host): Walking on New Grass
Roy Drusky: Take Good Care of Her
Hank Locklin: Please Help Me I'm Falling
Connie Smith: You've Got Me Right Where You Want Me/Sing, Sing, Sing
Jack Greene: Don't You Ever Get Tired of Hurting Me
I always enjoyed Holly on the Opry and was sorry to see her leave. And our thoughts and prayers continue with Holly for a full recovery.
To finish up for this week, I wanted to recognize that it was 50 years ago Saturday, October 15, 1966 that Del Reeves became a member of the Grand Ole Opry.
Franklin Delano Reeves was born in Sparta, North Carolina and was the youngest of 11 children. By the age of 12, Del was playing a regular gig on a local Saturday radio show. He attended Appalachian State College in Boone, North Carolina, then served four years in the Air Force. While stationed at Travis Air Force Base he began writing songs, singing on country music television shows, and recording with Capital Records. After leaving the military, he stayed in California where he developed a strong reputation as a singer-songwriter-performer with songs recorded by Carl Smith and Roy Drusky. Friend and fellow songwriter Hank Cochran talked Del into moving to Nashville, which he did in 1962.
In 1965, United Artists released "Girl on the Billboard" which went to No. 1, sold a million copies and earned Del the nickname of The Doodle-Oo-Doo-Doo Kid. That same year, "The Belles of Southern Bell" was a Top 5 hit, and in 1966 "Women Do Funny Things to Me" went into the Top 10. Opry membership took place the same year and on the night of his induction, which was handled by Porter Wagoner, Del, whose parents were in the audience, burst into tears and could only sing the chorus and the end of his song.
In addition to having had more than 25 songs on the country charts, Del also hosted his own television show, "Del Reeves Country Carnival," and appeared in a number of movies. By the late 1970's, Del's hit making days were over and he would spend the next several decades touring and appearing on the Grand Ole Opry. Suffering from emphysema, Del made his last Opry appearance in August 2002, and passed away on January 1, 2007 at the age of 74.
To remember Del Reeves, here is the Grand Ole Opry running order from Saturday October 15, 1966, the night Del Reeves became a member of the Grand Ole Opry:
7:30: Luzianne
Jimmy Newman (host): Back Pocket Money
Willis Brothers: A 6 ft 2 by 4
Bob Luman: Come on and Sing
Jean Shepard: If Teardrops were Silver
Jimmy Newman: Cry, Cry, Darling
Del Wood: Melinda
Ernest Ashworth: Pushed In a Corner
Willis Brothers: Big Daddy's Alabammy Bound
Jimmy Newman: Bring Your Heart Home
8:00: Martha White
Flatt & Scruggs (host): Wonder If You're Lonesome, Too
Tex Ritter: High Noon
Bill Anderson: I Get the Fever
Stringbean: Hot Corn; Cold Corn
Flatt & Scruggs: Houston
Crook Brothers: 8th of January
Billy Grammer: The Real Thing
Flatt & Scruggs: Mama, You've Been on My Mind
Earl Scruggs: Lonesome Road Blues
8:30: Stephens
Porter Wagoner (host): 'Ol Slewfoot
George Morgan: Almost
George Hamilton IV: Early Morning Rain
Archie Campbell: Most Richly Blessed
Porter Wagoner: Green, Green Grass of Home
Del Reeves: Girl on the Billboard
Jeannie Seely: It's Only Love
Mac McGaha & Buck Trent: Turkey in the Straw
9:00: Pet Milk
Ernest Tubb (host): Driving Nails in My Coffin
Bill Monroe: The Walls of Time
Wilburn Brothers: Hurt Her Once for Me
Marion Worth: More Than You'll Ever Get
Ernest Tubb: Another Story
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Nubbing Ridge
Jack Greene: There Goes My Everything
Ernest Tubb: Slipping Around
9:30: Kellogg's
Bobby Lord (host): Cash on the Barrel Head
Willis Brothers: Diamonds on Your Hands
Ray Pillow: Volkswagen
Dottie West: Here Comes My Baby
Bobby Lord: Losers Like Me
Del Wood: Cajun Stripper
Cousin Jody: On Top of Old Smokey
Bobby Lord: That's All Right
10:00: Schick
Bill Anderson (host): I Love You Drops
George Hamilton IV: Truck Driving Man
Stringbean: 20 cent Cotton and 90 cent Meat
Bob Luman: Memphis
10:15: Pure
Porter Wagoner (host): Dooley
Jimmy Newman: A Fallen Star
Ernest Ashworth: At Ease Heart
Leon Butler: He'll Have to Go
Porter Wagoner: Howdy Neighbor Howdy
10:30: Harvey's
Flatt & Scruggs (host): Petticoat Junction
Jean Shepard: Second Fiddle
George Morgan: You're the Only Good Thing
Flatt & Scruggs: Ballad of Jed Clampett
10:45: Newport
Ernest Tubb (host): Thanks A Lot
Dottie West: Let Me Talk to You
Ray Pillow: I'd Fight the World
Crook Brothers: Greenback Dollar
Ernest Tubb: I'll Step Aside
11:00: Coca-Cola
Bill Monroe (host): Uncle Pen
Tex Ritter: I Dreamed of A Hillbilly Heaven
Wilburn Brothers: It's Another World
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Walking in My Sleep
Bill Monroe: Live & Let Live
Jeannie Seely: Don't Touch Me
Sam McGee: Steel Guitar Rag
Bill Monroe: A Used to Be
11:30: Lava
Marty Robbins (host): Ribbon of Darkness
Marion Worth: Every Since My Baby Went Away
Charlie Louvin: See the Big Man Cry
Billy Grammer: The Real Thing
Marty Robbins: The Shoe Goes on the Other Foot Tonight
Del Reeves: Belles of Southern Bell
Cousin Jody: Mocking Bird
Marty Robbins: Devil Woman/Bouquet of Roses/I Could Never Be Ashamed of You/Take These Chains from My Heart/Lovesick Blues/El Paso
There you have it. I hope all of you enjoyed the memories and look back and I hope everyone enjoys the Opry this week.
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