Grand Ole Opry 8/31 & 9/1

The Grand Ole Opry has posted the line-ups for the shows this Labor Day weekend, with one show on Friday night and Saturday's Grand Ole Opry.

When looking at the two nights, Friday is definitely the better of the two with Grand Ole Opry members Larry Gatlin & The Gatlin Brothers and the Oak Ridge Boys leading the list. Additionally, Bill Anderson, Riders In The Sky, Mike Snider and Connie Smith are scheduled. While 6 Opry members are set for Friday night, it is back down to 4 on Saturday with Bill Anderson (the only member scheduled for both nights this weekend), Bobby Osborne, The Whites and Jeannie Seely listed. And with just that few Opry members, that means the Saturday show is down to just 3 segments.

The guest list on Friday night includes Sarah Darling, Flatt Lonesome, The McCrary Sisters, Rhonda Vincent, Dean Miller and Jamey Johnson. A pretty strong list. Dean, the son of Roger, will be in the Opry Shop after the show signing copies of his new tribute CD dedicated to his late father. And even though she can't seem to get that coveted invitation to join the Opry, Rhonda is back for another guest appearance.

Saturday night the Opry will see Erin Enderlin, Dan Tyminski, Jackie Lee, Chonda Pierce, David Ball and The Isaacs. Not a bad group but certainly not on par with the Friday night list.

Friday August 31
7:00: Larry Gatlin & The Gatlin Brothers (host); Sarah Darling; Mike Snider; Connie Smith
7:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Flatt Lonesome; The McCrary Sisters
Intermission
8:15: Bill Anderson (host); Rhonda Vincent; Dean Miller
8:45: Oak Ridge Boys (host); Jamey Johnson

Saturday September 1
7:00: Bill Anderson (host); Erin Enderlin; Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press
7:30: The Whites (host); Grand Master Fiddle Champions; Dan Tyminski
Intermission
8:15: Jeannie Seely (host); Jackie Lee; Opry Square Dancers; Chonda Pierce; David Ball; The Isaacs

One of the nice traditions that the Opry has is hosting the winners of the annual Grand Master Fiddle Championship. The contest used to take place in the Opryland theme park, however since the park has closed, it has moved to a smaller, less publicized venue. Still nice that the Opry recognizes the winner.
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And now, here is the posted Grand Ole Opry line-up from ten years ago, the weekend of August 29 & 30, 2008:

Friday August 29
8:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Jean Shepard; Luke Bryan
8:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); The Whites; Wylie & The Wild West
9:00: Bill Anderson (host); Connie Smith; Restless Heart
9:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Stonewall Jackson; Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Darryl Worley

Saturday August 30
1st show
7:00: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jim Ed Brown w/Helen Cornelius; Rhonda Vincent
7:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Jimmy C Newman; Jamie O'Neal; Opry Square Dancers
8:00: Jean Shepard (host); The Whites; Cherryholmes
8:30: Bill Anderson (host); Connie Smith; The Time Jumpers

2nd show
9:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jimmy C Newman; Rhonda Vincent
10:00: Jim Ed Brown (host) w/Helen Cornelius; Jamie O'Neal; Legacy Five
10:30: Jean Shepard (host); The Whites; Cherryholmes; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Bill Anderson (host); Connie Smith; The Time Jumpers

And from 50 years ago, Saturday August 31, 1968:

1st show
6:30: Bob Luman (host)
6:45: Ernie Ashworth (host)
7:00: Roy Acuff (host); Mel Tillis; Jeannie C. Riley
7:30: Stu Phillips (host); Dottie West; The Four Guys; Crook Brothers
8:00: Flatt & Scruggs (host); Ray Pillow; Leroy Van Dyke; Stringbean
8:30: Ernest Tubb (host); Bill Carlisle; Loretta Lynn; Fruit Jar Drinkers; Billy Parker

2nd show
9:30: Bob Luman (host); The Four Guys; Stringbean; Rita Faye; Ray Corbin
10:00: Roy Acuff (host); June Stearns; Bobby Lewis
10:15: Ernie Ashworth (host); Dottie West
10:30: Stu Phillips (host); Jeannie C. Riley
10:45: Ernest Tubb (host); Loretta Lynn; Crook Brothers
11:00: Ray Pillow (host); Mel Tillis; Fruit Jar Drinkers; Sam McGee
11:30: Bill Carlisle (host); Leroy Van Dyke; Nat Stuckey

Nat Stuckey, who I am sure many of you remember and was on the Opry that night, was a successful disc jockey, songwriter, and recording artist. Nat, who was born on December 17, 1933, earned a degree in radio and TV from Arlington State College, then worked at KALT in Atlanta, Texas, as a disc jockey before spending two years in the Army. After his discharge he went back to KALT before joining KWKH in Shreveport, Louisiana for eight years. KWKH featured the Louisiana Hayride and Nat was an announcer for the Hayride when he had his first hit, "Sweet Thang," for Paula Records in 1966.

In 1968, his first RCA single, "Plastic Saddle," reached the Top Ten. He continued to record for RCA until 1976, but had only two other Top Ten recordings, "Sweet Thang and Cisco" in 1969 and "Take Time to Love Her" in 1973. In 1976 he began recording for MCA but never had a major hit.

As a songwriter, however, he achieved success with "Waitin' in Your Welfare Line," at #1 hit for Buck Owens in 1965; "Pop-a-Top (#3, 1967) by Jim Ed Brown; and "Sweet Thang," a chart marker for Ernest Tubb and Loretta Lynn in 1967. After his recording career ended he had a successful career singing commercials, including some for Budweiser Beer. Nat Stuckey passed away from lung cancer at the age of 54 on August 24, 1988 and is buried in Shreveport.
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Looking back in Grand Ole Opry history, it was Saturday August 30, 1969 that Crystal Gayle made her debut on the Opry.

Crystal Gayle was born Brenda Gail Webb in Paintsville, Kentucky. Her older sister was future country music superstar and Grand Ole Opry member Loretta Lynn, though Loretta had already left home by the time Brenda was born.

The Grand Ole Opry has held a special place in Crystal's heart since even before she made her Opry debut on stage at the Ryman Auditorium at age 16. "My first time to perform on the Opry, Loretta was sick and she talked them into letting me perform in her spot," she recalls. "I remember singing 'Ribbon of Darkness' in my little shiny dress my mother made me."Both that dress and sister Loretta were on hand on January 21, 2017, when Crystal took her rightful place as a member of the Grand Ole Opry. It was a capstone for a career full of hits, honors, and awards.

To escape constant comparison to her sister in the early days of her recording career, Crystal developed her own vocal and musical style. She had 20 No. 1 country singles, beginning with "I'll Get Over You" and including her signature "Don't It Make My Brown Eyes Blue," which earned her a Grammy for Best Female Country Vocal Performance and also propelled her album "We Must Believe In Magic" to become the first by a female country artist to go platinum. Among her many other chart successes are "Talking In You Sleep," "Why Have You Left The One You Left Me For," "Half The Way," "Wrong Road Again," "When I Dream," and "Ready For the Times To Get Better."

In 2008, Crystal was inducted into the Kentucky Music Hall of Fame. She received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2009, and the honors kept coming in 2015, as she received the Academy of Country Music's Cliffie Stone Pioneer Award. It is just a matter of time until Crystal becomes a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame.

Here is the running order from 49 years ago, the night Crystal Gayle made her Opry debut:

1st show
6:30: Mrs. Grissoms
Jim and Jesse (host): (?)

6:45: Rudy's
Hank Locklin (host): (?)
Lonzo and Oscar: (?)

7:00: Luzianne
Billy Grammer (host): Gotta Travel On
Martha Carson: I'm Gonna Walk and Talk With My Lord
Jack Barlow: Birmingham Blues
Billy Grammer: Guitar Polka
Martha Carson: Shout; Shout; Shout; and Shine
Jack Barlow: Pauline
Billy Grammer: Beautiful Isle of Somewhere

7:30: Standard Candy
Charlie Walker (host): Pick Me Up on Your Way Down
Wilma Burgess: Let Me Be the Woman in Your Life
Bobby Lewis: Love Me and Make It All Better
Crook Brothers: Old Hen Cackle
Charlie Walker: Moffett, Oklahoma
Wilma Burgess: Break My Mind
Bobby Lewis: It's Such a Pretty World Today
Charlie Walker: Truck Driving Man

8:00: Martha White
Lester Flatt (host): John Henry
Margie Bowes: That Completely Destroys My Plans
Jerry Smith: Truck Stop
Louie Roberts: The Wreck of the Old 97
Lester Flatt: Cabin on the Hill
Margie Bowes: Understand Your Gal/Big City
Louie Roberts: Peace in the Valley/Hey Good Lookin'
Uncle Josh: Just Joshin'

8:30: Stephens
Ernest Tubb (host): Answer the Phone
Crystal Gayle: Ribbon of Darkness
Jay Lee Webb: She's Looking Better By the Minute
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Katy Hill
Billy Parker: I've Still Got a Long Way to Go
Jay Lee Webb: Wonderful World of Women
Ernest Tubb: Just a Drink Away

2nd show
9:30: Kellogg's
Jim and Jesse (host): I'm Hoping that You're Hoping
Jean Shepard: Seven Lonely Days
Bobby Lewis: From Heaven to Heartache
Jerry Smith: Truck Stop
Jim and Jesse: Knoxville Girl
Jean Shepard: I'm Tied Around Your Finger
Bobby Lewis: 'Til Something Better Comes Along
Jim and Jesse: Johnny B. Goode

10:00: Fender
Martha Carson: Cryin' Holy Unto the Lord
Harold Weakley: You've Still Got a Place in My Heart
Martha Carson: Satisfied
Joe Edwards: Alabama Jubilee

10:15: Pure
Lonzo and Oscar (host): Hertz Rent-A-Chick
Wes Buchanan: Undo the Right
Jack Barlow: Birmingham Blues
Lonzo and Oscar: Making Plans

10:30: Trailblazer
Lester Flatt (host): Folsom Prison Blues
Wilma Burgess: Let Me Be the Woman in Your Life
John Sullivan: Greyhound Blues
Lester Flatt: Foggy Mountain Breakdown

10:45: Kent
Ernest Tubb (host): In the Jailhouse Now
Crystal Gayle: Johnny One Time
Crook Brothers: Ida Red
Hank Locklin: Send Me the Pillow You Dream On

11:00: Coca Cola
Billy Grammer (host): Jesus Is a Soul Man
Peggy Little: Sweet Baby Girl
Jay Lee Webb: Big Job
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Hickory Leaf
Billy Grammer: Jesus Is a Soul Man
Peggy Little: Son of a Preacher Man
Sam and Kirk McGee: San Antonio Rose
Billy Grammer: Gotta Travel On/Whispering Hope

11:30: Lava
Charlie Walker (host): Honky Tonk Season
Rita Faye: The Last Thing on My Mind
Louie Roberts: Love's on My Mind
Charlie Walker: Moffett, Oklahoma
Louie Roberts: Peace in the Valley/Hey Good Looking
Charlie Walker: San Antonio Rose/Pick My Up on Your Way Down

It is obvious when looking at the line-up that there were not many Opry members on the show that night. Also, on the second show, Hank Locklin apparently missed his spot on hosting, which resulted in the 10:00 segment having no Opry members performing and Martha Carson headlining it.

There you have it for this week. I hope everyone enjoys the Opry this weekend!!

Tuesday Night Opry 8/28

A very nice line-up for this week's Tuesday Night Opry:

7:00: Jeannie Seely; Del McCoury Band
7:30: Mandy Barnett; Charles Esten
Intermission
8:15: Chris Janson; Darius Rucker; Rascal Flatts

5 Opry members and 2 who probably should be based on the number of guest appearances they have made.

Grand Ole Opry 8/24 & 25

Welcome back Garth Brooks!!! Yes, Garth is scheduled to appear on the Grand Ole Opry on Saturday night. Really nice to see Garth coming back to perform on the show. He has said many times that being an Opry member is one of the highlights of his career and while he makes very few appearances, it is always a special night when Garth is on.

Garth will be closing out both shows on Saturday night and I would expect, especially the second show, to feature an extended segment. Once Garth gets on stage, and at the Opry, he likes to give the fans something extra. As someone who has seen Garth at the Opry numerous times, I am pleased that he is back.

Joining Garth on Saturday night will be Opry members Ricky Skaggs, The Whites, Mike Snider and Connie Smith. Connie, Mike and The Whites are also scheduled for Friday night, to be joined by Bobby Osborne and Dailey & Vincent.

Gary Mule Deer is guesting on all three shows this weekend, joined on Friday night by Jimmie Allen, making a return appearance, The Sisterhood, Hall of Fame member Charlie McCoy; The Wild Feathers, Craig Campbell, and closing out the show, T. Graham Brown. Joining Gary Mule Deer on Saturday will be Carly Pearce and Molly Tuttle.

Friday August 24
7:00: Connie Smith (host); Jimmie Allen; Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press
7:30: Mike Snider (host); The Sisterhood; Charlie McCoy
Intermission
8:15: The Whites (host); Gary Mule Deer; The Wild Feathers
8:45: Dailey & Vincent (host); Craig Campbell; T. Graham Brown

Saturday August 25
Early Show
7:00: Mike Snider (host); Carly Pearce; Molly Tuttle
7:30: Ricky Skaggs (host); The Whites
8:00: Connie Smith (host); Gary Mule Deer; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Garth Brooks

Late Show
9:30: Mike Snider (host); Carly Pearce; Molly Tuttle
10:00: Ricky Skaggs (host); The Whites
10:30: Connie Smith (host); Gary Mule Deer; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Garth Brooks

Pretty thin on Saturday night, but then again, you have Garth for both shows.
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And now, here is the posted Grand Ole Opry line-up from 10 years ago, the weekend of August 22 & 23, 2008:

Friday August 22
8:00: Jeannie Seely (host); The Whites; Rockie Lynne
8:30: Jimmy C Newman (host); Darryl Singletary; Rebecca Lynn Howard
9:00: Jim Ed Brown (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Josh Gracin
9:30: John Conlee (host); Connie Smith; Sawyer Brown

Saturday August 23
1st show
7:00: Jim Ed Brown (host); Connie Smith; Jimmy C Newman; The Whites
7:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Jan Howard; George Hamilton IV; Opry Square Dancers
8:00: Trace Adkins (host); Martina McBride; Wynonna; Lee Greenwood

2nd show
9:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); Jimmy C Newman; Martina McBride
10:00: Trace Adkins (host); Connie Smith; The Whites
10:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Ernie Ashworth; Wynonna; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Riders In The Sky (host); George Hamilton IV: Lee Greenwood

Now from 50 years ago, Saturday August 24, 1968:
1st show
6:30: Bobby Lord (host); Grandpa Jones
6:45: Charlie Walker (host); Glaser Brothers; The Four Guys
7:00: George Hamilton IV (host); Osborne Brothers; Lorene Mann; Hugh X. Lewis
7:30: Roy Acuff (host); Loretta Lynn; Stringbean; Crook Brothers; Brother Oswald
8:00: Lester Flatt & Earl Scruggs (host); Stu Phillips; Norma Jean; Mel Tillis
8:30: Porter Wagoner (host); Ray Pillow; George McCormick; Archie Campbell; Fruit Jar Drinkers;

2nd show
9:30: Bobby Lord (host); Loretta Lynn; Grandpa Jones; Charlie Walker; Stringbean
10:00: Glaser Brothers (host); Harold Weakley; Lorene Mann
10:15: Lester Flatt & Earl Scruggs (host); Stu Phillips; The Four Guys
10:30: Porter Wagoner (host); Dolly Parton; Mel Tillis
10:45: Roy Acuff (host); Norma Jean; Crook Brothers
11:00: George Hamilton IV (host); Archie Campbell; Ray Pillow; Fruit Jar Drinkers; Sam McGee
11:30: Marty Robbins (host); Hugh X. Lewis; Osborne Brothers; Don Winters

Looking back in the history of the Grand Ole Opry, there are a couple of events worth noting. First, is was 27 years ago, Saturday August 24 that Dottie West appeared on the Grand Ole Opry for the final time. Secondly, it was 18 years ago, Saturday August 26, 2000 that Pam Tillis joined the cast of the Grand Ole Opry.

Country music stylist Dottie West enjoyed one of the longest hit making careers of any woman of her generation. Known for her 1964 Grammy-winning recording "Here Comes My Baby," she also was a country pioneer with ad jingles (including the famous Coca-Cola "Country Sunshine" campaign of the 1970s), and she recorded successful duets with Jim Reeves, Don Gibson, Jimmy Dean and Kenny Rogers.

Born Dorothy Marie Marsh, she grew up in a large, poor family. She worked her way through college and married steel guitarist Bill West in 1953. He took a job in Cleveland, Ohio, and she landed a singing slot on that city's Landmark Jamboree TV show as half of the Kay-Dots duo with Kathy Dee (Kathy Dearth). By 1958 Dottie had children Dale, Morris, Kerry and Shelly, but continued to sing professionally. On weekends the Wests would drive south to Nashville to try to establish contacts in the music industry there. Finally she successfully auditioned for Starday in 1959, but little came of the affiliation. In 1961 the family moved to Music City. Dottie signed with Atlantic, but fared no better than she had at Starday.

Dottie continued to write songs, however, and Jim Reeves had a hit with her composition "Is This Me" in 1963. He brought her to the attention of RCA's Chet Atkins, who signed Dottie and produced her self-penned "Here Comes My Baby." It earned her Grand Ole Opry membership and the first Grammy won by a female country artist. She had other Top Ten singles with "Would You Hold It Against Me" (1966) and "Paper Mansions" (1967), as well as hit duets with Reeves ("Love Is No Excuse," 1964) and Don Gibson ("Rings of Gold," 1969).

Patsy Cline served as her mentor, and Dottie, in turn, befriended others, boosting the careers of Larry Gatlin, Jeannie Seely, Steve Wariner, and Tony Toliver, while serving as a den mother for a generation of struggling pickers and writers. Dottie's own songwriting led to her composing twelve Coca-Cola jingles, including the Clio Award-winning "Country Sunshine," which also became a 1973 Top Ten hit. She moved to United Artists in 1976 and later scored a pair of #1 hits with "A Lesson in Leavin'" (1980) and "Are You Happy Baby?" (1980-81). She also recorded a highly successful string of duets with Kenny Rogers, including "Everytime Two Fools Collide" (1978), and "What Are We Doin' in Love" (1981), which also became a Top Twenty hit on the pop charts.

Along the way, Dottie shed her gingham/sweetheart image and reemerged as a glamorous, sexy star with a $50,000 wardrobe and a glitzy stage show. After she and Bill West divorced, she married two younger husbands in succession and lived extravagantly. But bad investments and a lull in her career in the late 1980s led to bankruptcy in 1990. Dottie passed away a year later, on September 4, 1991, from injuries suffered in a Nashville car crash while on her way to an Opry appearance.

Since her death, Dottie has been mentioned as a candidate for induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame. After several years of pressure from her friends and fellow artists, Dottie West was finally elected into the Country Music Hall of Fame earlier this year and will be formally inducted later in the fall.

Here is the running order from Saturday August 24, 1991, the final Opry appearance by Dottie West:

1st show
6:30: Bonanza
Porter Wagoner (host): Company's Coming
Ernie Ashworth: Shamrock Motel
Porter Wagoner: Green, Green Grass of Home/Ol' Slewfoot

6:45: Hall of Fame
Jim and Jesse (host): Dream on Me
Skeeter Davis: The End of the World
Bill Carlisle: Is Zat You Myrtle
Jim and Jesse: A Flower in the Desert

7:00: Shoney's
Del Reeves (host): Girl on the Billboard
Billy Grammer: Steel Guitar Rag
Jean Shepard: If You Can Live With It
Dottie West: I Can't Help It
David Houston: I'll Take You Home Again Kathleen
Del Reeves: Good Time Charlie's

7:30: Standard Candy
Jimmy C Newman (host): La Cajun Band
McCarters: No Where to Go But Up/If I Could Stop Loving You
Clinton Gregory: If It Weren't for Country Music/Satisfy Me and I'll Satisfy You
Jimmy C Newman: Colinda/The Ring that Shines

8:00: Martha White
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Stonewall Jackson: Side-Steppin' the Blues/Muddy Water
Connie Smith: Did We Have to Come this Far to Say Goodbye/Louisiana Man
Opry Square Dance Band/Melvin Sloan Dancers: Bill Cheatham
Roy Acuff: I Can't Help It

8:30: Opryland USA
Hank Snow (host); Tangled Mind
George Hamilton IV: Forever Young
Roy Drusky: Too Old to Die Young
Charlie Walker: Pick Me Up on Your Way Down
Johnson Mountain Boys: Maybe You'll Change Your Mind
Hank Snow: I'm Glad I Got to See You Once Again

2nd show
9:30: Dollar General
Porter Wagoner (host): Ol' Slewfoot
Connie Smith: The Key's in the Mailbox
Ernie Ashworth: Talk Back Trembling Tips
Bill Grammer: Steel Guitar Rag/Gotta Travel On
Jeannie Seely: Too Far Gone
Porter Wagoner: I'll Go Down Swinging

10:00: Little Debbie
Del Reeves (host): Six Days on the Road/Truck Driving Man
Skeeter Davis: He Says the Same Things to Me
Del Reeves: Don't You Ever Get Tired of Hurting Me

10:15: Tennessee Pride/Sunbeam
Roy Acuff (host): Just A Friend
Wilma Lee Cooper: Gathering Flowers from the Hillside
Dan Kelly: Sally Goodin

10:30: Pet Milk
Jimmy C Newman (host): Pistol Packin' Mama
Jean Shepard: Days of Wine and Roses
Jimmy C Newman: Down on the Bayou

10:45: B.C. Powder
Charlie Walker (host): Right or Wrong
Clinton Gregory: Satisfy Me and I'll Satisfy You/Nobody's Darling But Mine
Opry Square Dance Band/Melvin Sloan Dancers: Golden Slippers
Charlie Walker: Pick Me Up on Your Way Down

11:00: Coca Cola
Hank Snow (host): Geisha Girl
Jim and Jesse: When I Dream About the Southland
Dottie West: Here Comes My Baby
Justin Tubb: Keep Me from Blowing Away
McCarters: Everytime You Leave
Hank Snow: It Kinda Reminds Me of Me

11:30: Creamette
George Hamilton IV (host): Early Morning Rain
Stonewall Jackson: Side-Steppin' the Blues
Roy Drusky: I Really Don't Want to Know
Johnson Mountain Boys: Duncan & Brady/Springtime in Glory
George Hamilton IV: Life's Railway to Heaven

Pam Tillis has enjoyed many career-defining moments on stage at the Grand Ole Opry. The daughter of singer and songwriting legend Mel Tillis, she made her Opry debut on the Ryman Auditorium stage at age eight, singing "Tom Dooley" with her dad. "It was a larger-than-life moment for me," Pam recalls. "It was sort of like he was passing me the baton. The microphone came down to me and it was in slow motion. My little knees were knocking together. I got my knees under control and it traveled up. My lip was twitching and I was a like little kiddie Elvis."

In 2000, Pam was on the legendary stage once again, now looking down rather than up, as Little Jimmy Dickens invited her to became an Opry member. Without a moment's hesitation, she said yes.

Throughout her career, Pam has earned nearly 20 Top 10 singles, three Country Music Association awards, including the coveted Female Vocalist of the Year in 1994, and two Grammys. She has experimented with pop, Broadway, and jazz, seamlessly incorporating those influences into music that remains unmistakably country at its core.

Throughout the '80s, Pam worked as a back-up vocalist, jingle singer, club performer, songwriter, and demo singer before her first hit single, "Don't Tell Me What to Do" reached the Top 5 in 1990. She followed with hits including "Maybe It Was Memphis," "Shake the Sugar Tree," "Mi Vida Loca," and "All The Good Ones Are Gone." Two albums were million-sellers.

"In all my years in the music business," Pam says, "I've been very proud that I wasn't calculated, that I really did what I felt, and what I thought was honest for me to sing. Daddy always said, 'Never change who you are; let it come around to you.' So when things did happen for me, it was because what I wanted to do was what people now wanted to hear."

Here is the running order from Saturday August 26, 2000, the night Pam Tillis became a member of the Grand Ole Opry:

1st show
6:30: WSM online/Tex Mex
Jeannie Seely (host): Leaving and Saying Goodbye
The Whites: Pins & Needles
Bill Carlisle: I've Waited too Long
Mandy Barnett: Hurt/Trademark
Jeannie Seely: Making Plans

7:00: Shoney's
Porter Wagoner (host): Howdy, Neighbor, Howdy
Billy Walker: She Goes Walking Through My Mind
Matt King: A Woman's Tears
Connie Smith: I Never Stopped Once Loving You
Jack Greene: Ever Since My Baby Went Away
Porter Wagoner: I've Enjoyed as Much of This As I Can Stand/On a Highway Headed South

7:30: Standard Candy
Marty Stuart (host): Hillbilly Highway
Darryl Worley: When You Need My Love
Charlie Louvin: Will You Visit Me on Sundays
Pam Tillis: All the Good Ones are Gone/Maybe it was Memphis

8:00: Martha White
Bill Anderson (host): Southern Fried
Pam Tillis: Mi Vida Loca
T. Bubba Bechtol: Comedy
Holly Dunn: You Really Had Me Going
Opry Square Dance Band/ Melvin Sloan Dancers: Cherokee Shuffle
Bill Anderson: Still

8:30: Physicians Mutual
Jimmy Dickens (host): Mountain Dew
Skeeter Davis: The End of the World
Jimmy C Newman: Colinda
Jeanne Pruett: Temporarily Yours
Mike Snider: John Henry
Jimmy Dickens: Life Turned Her that Way

2nd show
9:30: Big Lots
Porter Wagoner (host): My Long Journey Home
Connie Smith: How Long; Oh, How Long/He Was There All the Time
Jeanne Pruett: Satin Sheets
George Hamilton IV: Forever Young
Porter Wagoner: Daddy's Old Sayings and Mama's Beliefs/Sorrow on the Rocks

10:00: Lincoln Mercury/Opryland Hotel
Jimmy Dickens (host): Sleeping at the Foot of the Bed
Skeeter Davis: I Can Call Jesus Anytime
Stu Phillips: Colorado
Mandy Barnett: Up the Lazy River/The Whispering Wind
Jimmy Dickens: I'd Rather Sleep in Peace than Know You're Gone

10:30: Folex Spot Remover/Joggin' In A Jug
Marty Stuart (host): Rock Island Line
Matt King Burying Bones
Pam Tillis: No Use Crying Over Spilled Perfume/I Said A Prayer
Opry Square Dance Band/Melvin Sloan Dancers: Sally Goodin
Marty Stuart: Dark As a Dungeon

11:00: Coca Cola
Bill Anderson (host): Po Folks
Mike Snider: If My Nose was Runnin' Money
Holly Dunn: Devil, Stand Back
Billy Grammer: I Dreamed of an Old Love Affair
Bill Anderson: A Picture from Life's Other Side

11:30: Wildhorse Saloon
Charlie Walker (host): Cherokee Maiden
T. Bubba Bechtol: Comedy
Darryl Worley: When You Need My Love/A Good Day to Run

There you have it for this week. I hope everyone enjoys the Opry this weekend and Garth's return.

Dustin Lynch Invited to Become the Opry's Newest Member

Last night on the Tuesday Night Opry, on a night to recognize Trace Adkins upon his 15th anniversary as a member of the Grand Ole Opry, Trace surprised guest artist Dustin Lynch during his performance and asked him to become the Opry's newest member.

Dustin Lynch is from Tullahoma, Tennessee, and graduated from Tullahoma High School in 2003. At the age of 16, Dustin, who had been playing the guitar for a few years, performed at the Bluebird Cafe in Nashville on an open mic night and was well received. In 2003, after graduating from high school, he moved to Nashville and attended Lipscomb University, He graduated with a B.S. degree in biology in 2007 and although he was interested in attending medical school, he turned it down to pursue a career in music.

After briefly signing with Valory Music Group, Dustin moved to Broken Bow Records in 2011. His debut single "Cowboys and Angels" was released in January 2012. The self-titled debut album "Dustin Lynch" was released in August 2012 and reached #1 on the Top Country Albums chart. The albums second single "She Cranks My Tractor" became his second Top 20 hit in early 2013. It was followed by "Wild in Your Smile" which also made the Top 30.

In early 2014 Dustin released his fourth single and the lead single from his second album "Where It's At (Yep, Yep)." It became his first #1 single on the Country Airplay chart in September 2014, and the album of the same name was released on September 9, 2014. "Hell of a Night" and "Mind Reader" were released to country radio as the albums second and third singles, both of which reached #1 on the Country Airplay charts.

"Seein' Red" was released on July 11, 2016 as the lead single from Dustin's third studio album "Current Mood." It hit #1 on the Country Airplay chart for the week dated February 25, 2017. "Small Town Boy" was released on March 20, 2017 as the second single from that album. That song also reached #1 on the Country Airplay chart.

Like others, I was very surprised last night that the invitation to join the Opry went to Dustin. That makes four new male members in a row (Chris Young, Chris Janson, Bobby Bare, Dustin Lynch). It seemed to me awful early and quick. After all, Chris Janson had to make over 100 guest appearances before he received an Opry invite. I thought there were others, such as Rhonda Vincent, Exile, Restless Heart, Mark Wills, etc., who should have received an invitation first. But it was obvious from this selection that the Opry wanted to go young and build upon its future, especially after having Bobby rejoin.

Time will tell if Dustin will be a committed Opry member or not. The odds are against it as his career continues to pick up steam. For those interested, September 18 will be his induction date.

Congratulations to Dustin Lynn, the Grand Ole Opry's newest member.

Tuesday Night Opry 8/21

It is a big night as Trace Adkins will be celebrating his 15th anniversary as a member of the Grand Ole Opry.

The Grand Ole Opry stage holds many fond memories for Trace Adkins, beginning with his 1996 debut performance. In 2003, the 6'6" singer was invited to join the Opry by 4'11" veteran Little Jimmy Dickens, who stood on a stepladder to ask him fact to face. Later that same year, one of Adkins' heroes, fellow Opry member Ronnie Milsap, welcomed him into the family.

Country music fans first embraced Trace's rich, resonant baritone nearly two decades ago. His lengthy list of hits includes "(This Ain't) No Thinkin' Thing," "Every Light in the House Is On," "Then They Do," "Honky Tonk Badonkadonk," "You're Gonna Miss This" and "Just Fishin'".

Trace grew up in Sarepta, La. and developed an interest in music when his father taught him to play guitar. During his school, he joined a gospel group called the New Commitments. He spent time working on an oil rig before moving to Nashville to pursue a career in country music. After a record executive saw Adkins playing at a small club just outside of Nashville, he was soon signed to his first record deal.

Trace, who has worked as a spokesperson for the Wounded Warrior Program, is well known for his staunch support of the U.S. military. He has performed for troops in Kuwait, Iraq, and Afghanistan. In 2007, he was honored with the USO Merit Award in recognition of his dedication to assisting others through charitable works. In 2007, Random House published his autobiography, "A Personal Stand: Observations and Opinions from a Freethinking Roughneck."

In 2008, Trace expanded his fan base beyond the country audience when he finished second on Celebrity Apprentice. Because his daughter Brianna has severe food allergies, he used the time on the show to raise money and awareness for the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network. Trace won All-Star Celebrity Apprentice in 2013, raising money for the American Red Cross. He's also acted in several films including An American Carol, The Lincoln Lawyer and The Virginian.

Joining Trace on Tuesday night for two shows will be Opry members Vince Gill and Eddie Montgomery of Montgomery Gentry.

1st show
7:00: Vince Gill; Eddie Montgomery of Montgomery Gentry; Dillon Carmichael
8:00: Exile; Dustin Lynch; Trace Adkins

2nd show
9:30: Vince Gill; Eddie Montgomery of Montgomery Gentry; Dillon Carmichael
10:30: Exile; Dustin Lynch; Trace Adkins

Congratulations to Trace, who is another of those members who joined in the past several decades that has honored his commitment to the Opry and who understands what being an Opry member is all about.

Grand Ole Opry 8/17 & 8/18

After the big weekend with Carrie Underwood, it is back to normal this week at the Opry House, with one show each night. Interesting that Mark Wills is once again scheduled for both nights. No, I don't anticipate Mark becoming an Opry member, although worst things can happen, but he seems to be the person they are going to now to fill out the line-ups.

Besides Mark Wills, corporate comedian Dick Hardwick is also scheduled for both nights. On the Friday Night Opry, Mark and Dick will be joined by Mickey Guyton, Ryan Kinder and Don Schlitz, while on Saturday night Logan Brill and Waylon Payne will join the pair.

As far as Grand Ole Opry members this weekend, John Conlee, Mike Snider and Connie Smith are scheduled for both nights, with Dailey & Vincent, The Whites and Ricky Skaggs joining that trio on Friday night. Saturday night has Jeannie Seely, Bobby Osborne, Riders In The Sky, and the Opry's newest member, Bobby Bare listed.

Friday August 17
7:00: John Conlee (host); Mickey Guyton; Mike Snider
7:30: Connie Smith (host); Ryan Kinder; Don Schlitz
Intermission
8:15: Dailey & Vincent (host); Dick Hardwick; Mark Wills
8:45: Ricky Skaggs (host); The Whites

Saturday August 18
7:00: John Conlee (host); Logan Brill; Mike Snider
7:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Mark Wills
Intermission
8:15: Connie Smith (host); Dick Hardwick; Opry Square Dancers
8:45: Riders In The Sky (host); Waylon Payne; Bobby Bare

And now, here is the posted Grand Ole Opry line-up from ten years ago, the 3rd weekend in August 2008:

Friday August 15
8:00: Jimmy C Newman (host); Connie Smith; Zac Brown Band
8:30: Ray Pillow (host); Elizabeth Cook; The Steeldrivers
9:00: Jean Shepard (host); Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Point of Grace
9:30: Mel Tillis (host); Johnny Lee; Melissa Lawson

Saturday August 16
1st show
7:00: Bill Anderson (host); Jean Shepard; Point of Grace
7:30: Jim Ed Brown (host) w/Helen Cornelius; Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Johnny Counterfit; Opry Square Dancers
8:00: Vince Gill (host); The Grascals; Melissa Lawson; Guy Clark

2nd show
9:30: Bill Anderson (host); Jimmy C Newman; Point of Grace
10:00: Jean Shepard (host); Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Point of Grace
10:30: Vince Gill (host); Charlie Louvin; Guy Clark; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Jim Ed Brown (host) w/Helen Cornelius; Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Melissa Lawson

Looking back, it was 51 year ago, Saturday August 19, 1967 that Charlie Walker became a member of the Grand Ole Opry.

Charles Levi Walker came from the cotton fields of Dallas County, Texas, to become one of country music's most popular disc jockeys and then one of the best shuffle-beat honky-tonk singers. A singer-guitarist with Bill Boyd's Cowboy Ramblers in Dallas from 1943-1944, Charlie also worked daily remote broadcasts from Sellers Studio to Corpus Christi and other Texas outlets. With the Eighth Army Signal Corps in the Tokyo occupation forces, he became the first to broadcast country music to fellow soldiers in the Orient. Discharged in 1947, Charlie and his band the Texas Ramblers performed in and around Corpus Christi for several years.

Moving to San Antonio in 1951, he became KMAC's country disc jockey and built an enormous listenership with great records and great antics: His sign-on was "This is ol' poke salad, cotton-picking, boll-pulling, corn-shucking, snuff-dipping Charlie Walker." On Decca Records (1954-56) after a short previous stink with Imperial, Charlie had a regional hit, "Tell Her Lies and Feed Her Candy," and his first charted record, "Only You, Only You" (1956). Pappy Daily next signed Charlie to Mercury, but it was a chance with Columbia Records, thanks to Ray Price, that made possible Charlie's first big hit, "Pick Me Up on Your Way Down" (1958), which helped introduce the popular shuffle beat to country music.

Charlie remained San Antonio's top country disc jockey while building his own touring and recording career with a few widely spaced honky-tonk hits: "Who Will Buy the Wine" (1960), "Wild as a Wildcat" (1965) and "Don't Squeeze My Sharmon" (1967). The popularity of the latter convinced Charlie, who was also a top-notch golfer, to move to Nashville and join the Grand Ole Opry, where he remained a member for the rest of his life. He was the Opry's staunchest exponent of honky-tonk and western swing styles. And in case you forgot, it was Charlie Walker who portrayed Hawkshaw Hawkins in the 1985 film biography of Patsy Cline, "Sweet Dreams."

Charlie was born in Copeville, Texas on November 2, 1926. In addition to being a member of the Grand Ole Opry, Charlie was also a member of the Country Radio DJ Hall of Fame, elected in 1981. Charlie passed away at the age of 81 on September 12, 2008. His final appearance on the Opry was Friday March 21, 2008.

Here is the running order from Saturday August 19, 1967, the night Charlie Walker became an Opry member:

1st show
6:30: (?)
6:45: (?)

7:00: Luzianne
Hank Locklin (host): Please Help Me I'm Falling
The Four Guys: Walking in the Sunshine
June Stearns: Habit, Not Desire
Pete Drake: I'm Just a Guitar (Everybody Picks on Me)
Hank Locklin: Hasta Luego
Bobby Barnett: Down Came the World
The Four Guys: Ruby, Don't Take Your Guns to Town
Jerry Whitehurst: (?)
Hank Locklin: Jambalaya

7:30: Cordite
Billy Walker (host): Let's Think About Living
Del Wood: 12th Street Rag
Mel Tillis: Goodbye Wheeling
Margie Singleton: Ode to Billy Joe
Billy Walker: Bare With Me a Little Longer
Leon Ashley: Laura
Del Wood: Are You from Dixie
Mel Tillis: Life Turned Her that Way
Billy Walker; Del Rio

8:00: Martha White
Roy Acuff (host): Night Train to Memphis
Jim & Jesse: The Ballad of Thunder Road
Charlie Walker: Don't Squeeze My Sharmon
Lafayette: Crook Brothers
Loretta Lynn: If You're Not Gone Too Long
Larry McNeely: (?)
Roy Acuff: Cabin in Gloryland

8:30: Stephens
Ray Pillow (host): Thank You Ma'am
Marion Worth: If I Kiss You, Will You Go Away
Jerry Green: Sally Was a Good Old Girl
Bobby Jenkins: Lovesick Blues
Ray Pillow: I Just Want to be Left Alone
Curtis McPeake: The World is Waiting for the Sunrise
Johnny Carver: It's Such a Pretty World
Marion Worth: You Good Girl's Gonna Go Bad
Ray Pillow: Take Your Hands off My Heart

2nd show
9:30: Kellogg's
Billy Walker (host): Cross the Brazos at Waco
Willis Brothers: Somebody Knows My Dog
Pete Sayers: Wash My Face in the Morning Dew
Del Wood: Ballin' the Jack
Billy Walker: Funny How Time Slips Away
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Katy Hill
Willis Brothers: I Still Do
Billy Walker: Cattle Call

10:00: Schick
Ray Pillow (host): If' Is a Mighty Big Word
Margie Singleton: Ode to Billy Joe
Leon Ashley: Laura
Ray Pillow: Six Days on the Road

10:15: Pure
George Morgan (host): I Couldn't See
Mel Tillis: The Fugitive
Loretta Lynn: Don't Come Home a Drinkin'
George Morgan: You're the Only Good Thing

10:30: Buckley's
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball/The Sinking of the Great Titanic
Harold Weakley: Almost Persuaded
Roy Acuff: Put My Little Shoes Away

10:45: Kent
Hank Locklin (host): Send Me the Pillow You Dream On
Charlie Walker: Don't Squeeze My Sharmon
Crook Brothers: Ida Red
Hank Locklin: Release Me

11:00: Coca-Cola
Bill Anderson (host): I Got the Fever/Get While the Getting's Good
The Four Guys: Roll Muddy River
Jimmy Gatley: Crying Don't Pay
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Fire on the Mountain
Bill Anderson: Papa
Sam McGee: Spanish Two-Step
The Four Guys: Shenandoah
Bill Anderson: No One's Gonna Hurt You Anymore

11:30: Lava
Marty Robbins (host): Singing the Blues
Marion Worth: Sleepin' at the Foot of the Bed
Jerry Green: Danny Boy
Jim & Jesse: Diesel on My Tail
Bobby Sykes: Living a Lie
Don Winters: Chime Bells
Marion Worth: A Legend in My Time
Marty Robbins: Tonight Carmen/Begging to You/Ribbon of Darkness/Don't Worry/The Shoe Goes on the Other Foot Tonight

There you have it for this week. Coming up on Tuesday night will be two big shows featuring Trace Adkins, Vince Gill and Eddie Montgomery among others. It will be a celebration of Trace's 15th year as an Opry member. Then next Saturday night, two shows with Garth!!

With that, I hope everyone enjoys the Opry this weekend!!

Tuesday Night Opry 8/14

Now that summer is ending and school is starting back up for many districts, the Opry is back down to just one mid-week show, the Tuesday Night Opry.

Here you go for this week, Tuesday August 14:

7:00: Riders In The Sky; Holly Williams
7:30: Trent Harmon; Lorrie Morgan
Intermission
8:15: Michael Ray; Charlie Daniels Band
8:45: Jason Aldean

Grand Ole Opry 8/10 & 8/11

It is a big weekend at the Grand Ole Opry as there are two shows each on Friday and Saturday night. The reason? Grand Ole Opry member Carrie Underwood is appearing both nights. For Carrie, these will be Opry shows number five, six, seven and eight this year as she continues to uphold her commitment to the Opry. And in case anyone missed the big announcement today from Carrie, she will be going on a nationwide tour beginning in May 2019. Why the long wait? Because, as she also announced today, she is pregnant with her second child. Congratulations to Carrie and her husband Mike.

As to the rest of this weekends shows, both shows on Friday night will also feature Opry members the Oak Ridge Boys. For the Oaks, these will be Opry shows seven and eight for this year and they have more scheduled. It took this group years before they agreed to become Opry members, and much like Carrie, they have taken Opry membership very seriously.

Also appearing on Friday night for both shows will be members Bill Anderson, Ricky Skaggs and The Whites. Joining them on the first show will be Jeannie Seely and Bobby Osborne, while Connie Smith is scheduled for just the second show. Saturday night, in addition to Carrie, has Opry members Mike Snider, Connie Smith, The Whites and Jeannie Seely scheduled for both shows.

Guesting on both nights will be frequent Opry guest Mark Wills. With these four appearances, that will give him 18 for the year. Why don't they just make this guy a member? Over the past number of years, he has certainly appeared more than the majority of the members.

Joining Mark on Friday night will be Runaway June, Mountain Heart and comedian Henry Cho. All are set for both shows. Saturday nights guest list, in addition to Mark, includes Jillian Jacqueline, The Grascals, Dom Flemons, and set for appearances 101 and 102, Charles Esten.

Friday August 10
1st show
7:00: Bill Anderson (host); Runaway June; Mountain Heart
7:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Mark Wills
8:00: Ricky Skaggs (host); The Whites; Henry Cho
8:30: Oak Ridge Boys (host); Carrie Underwood

2nd show
9:30: Bill Anderson (host); Runaway June; Mountain Heart
10:00: Connie Smith (host); Carrie Underwood
10:30: Ricky Skaggs (host); The Whites; Henry Cho
11:00: Oak Ridge Boys (host); Mark Wills

Saturday August 11
1st show
7:00: Mike Snider (host); Jillian Jacqueline; Mark Wills
7:30: Connie Smith (host); The Grascals; Dom Flemons
8:00: The Whites (host); Charles Esten; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Carrie Underwood

2nd show
9:30: Mike Snider (host); Jillian Jacqueline; Mark Wills
10:00: Connie Smith (host); Carrie Underwood
10:30: The Whites (host); Dom Flemons; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Jeannie Seely (host); The Grascals; Charles Esten

Four very nice shows this weekend!!!
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And now, here is the posted Grand Ole Opry line-ups from ten years ago, the 2nd weekend in August 2008:

Friday August 8
8:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Jimmy C Newman; Phil Stacey
8:30: Riders In The Sky (host); George Hamilton IV; Mandy Barnett
9:00: Bill Anderson (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Rissi Palmer
9:30: Charley Pride (host); Eddy Raven; Carolina Rain

Saturday August 9
1st show
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Jimmy C Newman; Radney Foster
7:30: George Hamilton IV (host); Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Exile
8:00: Charley Pride (host); The Whites; T Graham Brown; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Carrie Underwood

2nd show
9:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Jimmy C Newman; Radney Foster
10:00: George Hamilton IV (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Exile
10:30: Charley Pride (host); Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; The Whites; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Riders In The Sky (host); T Graham Brown; Carrie Underwood

And from 25 years ago, here is the line-up for the first show on Saturday August 14, 1993:

1st show
6:30: Jack Greene (host); Jeanne Pruett
6:45: Grandpa Jones (host); Jan Howard; Charlie Walker
7:00: Bill Monroe (host); Ernie Ashworth; Jim Ed Brown; Charlie Louvin; Skeeter Davis
7:30: Bill Anderson (host); Martina McBride; ; Asleep at the Wheel
8:00: Porter Wagoner (host); The Four Guys; The Whites; Connie Smith; Opry Square Dance Band; Stoney Mountain Cloggers
8:30: Hank Snow (host); Jimmy C Newman; Ray Pillow; Roy Drusky; Mike Snider

Looking back in Grand Ole Opry history, it was Saturday August 11, 1979 that Guy Willis, a member of the Willis Brothers, performed on the Opry for the final time.

Originally known as the Oklahoma Wranglers, the Willis Brothers, consisting of Vic, Guy and Skeeter began their career at KGEF Radio in Shawnee, Oklahoma, later moving to Kansas City just prior to World War II. In addition to their musical careers, the Willis Brothers also performed on radio and television, along with appearing in movies. The Willis Brothers were also the first group to back Hank Williams (later becoming known as the original Drifting Cowboys), the first featured group on the Jubilee, USA shows in Springfield, Missouri, and were also among the first Country and Western entertainers to give a concert in Constitution Hall in Washington, D.C.

After serving in World War II, the brothers (still known as the Oklahoma Wranglers) relocated to Nashville and in 1946 began performing on the Grand Ole Opry, becoming members. In 1949, they left the Opry to tour nationally with Eddy Arnold, returning as members in 1960 renamed as the Willis Brothers.

Although they recorded for a number of different record labels, including Mercury, Sterling, Coral, RCA, and CMH Records, the Willis Brothers had only four hits that made the country charts: "Give Me Forty Acres," which reached No. 9 in 1964; "A Six Foot Two by Four," No. 41 in 1965; and "Bob" reaching No. 14, along with "Somebody Knows My Dog," reaching No. 62, both in 1967.

Charles Ray Clayton, known as Skeeter, was the first to pass away, on January 28, 1976 at the age of 58. James Ulysses Harrod Lyn, known as Guy, passed away on April 13, 1981, while John Victor, Vic Willis, passed away on January 15, 1995.

After Guy retired, due to declining health, Vic continued on the Opry, first as a solo act, then formed the Vic Willis Trio with C.W. Mitchell and Curtis Young, which debuted on the Opry in November 1980.

Here is the running order from Saturday August 11, 1979, the final night that Guy Willis of the Willis Brothers, appeared on the Grand Ole Opry, and the final night that the Willis Brothers were listed on the Opry program:

1st show
6:30: Mrs. Grissoms
Wilburn Brothers (host): Heartaches by the Number
Harold Morrison: Foggy Mountain Top
Wilburn Brothers: Because He Lives

6:45: Rudy's
Billy Grammer (host): Bonaparte's Retreat
Willis Brothers: Sioux City Sue
Billy Grammer: Cincinnati Rag

7:00: Shoney's
Charlie Walker (host): Don't Play Me No Songs about Texas
Hank Locklin: I Can't Stop Loving You/Send Me the Pillow You Dream On
Mel McDaniel: God Made Love/Play Her Back to Yesterday
Linda Nail: Why Don't You Love Me
Charlie Walker: Milkcow Blues

7:30: Standard Candy
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Charlie Louvin: Love Don't Care Whose House It Lives In/Mama's Angels
Carolee Singers: The Song the Holy Angels Cannot Sing
Crook Brothers/Tennessee Travelers: Billy in the Low Ground
Herman Crook: Will the Circle Be Unbroken

8:00: Martha White
Stonewall Jackson (host): A Wound Time Can't Erase
Connie Smith: When God Dips His Love in My Heart/He Was There all the Time
Bill Carlisle: Little Liza Jane
The Four Guys: Cottonfields/Mariah/Why I'm Walkin'

8:30: Acme
Bill Monroe (host): I'll Never Love No One Else But My Darling
Duke of Paducah: Comedy
Johnny Carver: Tie A Yellow Ribbon/Afternoon Delight
Fruit Jar Drinkers: (?)
Bill Monroe: Walk Softly on this Heart of Mine

2nd show
9:30: Kellogg's
Charlie Walker (host): Don't Play Me No Songs About Texas
Billy Grammer: San Antonio Rose/I'm Letting You Go
Willis Brothers: Take Me Back to Tulsa
Mel McDaniel: God Made Love/Play Her Back to Yesterday
Charlie Walker: Wild Side of Life

10:00: Fender
Wilburn Brothers (host): Fraulein
Harold Morrison: Tennessee
Wilburn Brothers: Knoxville Girl

10:15: Union 76
Roy Acuff (host): Back in the Country
Brother Oswald: Mountain Dew
Roy Acuff: The Great Judgement Morning/I'll Fly Away

10:30: Trailblazer
Stonewall Jackson (host): My Favorite Sin
Hank Locklin: Country Hall of Fame
Linda Nail: Satisfied
Stonewall Jackson: Come on Home

10:45: Beech-Nut
Charlie Louvin (host): I Don't Love You Anymore/I Think I'll Go Somewhere and Cry Myself to Sleep/See the Big Man Cry
Connie Smith: He Set Me Free
Crook Brothers/Tennessee Travelers: Black Mountain Rag
Mr. C.M. Loudermilk: Instrumental

11:00: Coca-Cola
Bill Monroe (host): Little Cabin Home on the Hill
Fruit Jar Drinkers: (?)
Kirk McGee: Blue Night
Bill Monroe: I Saw the Light
Duke of Paducah: Comedy
Bill Monroe: Little Joe

11:30: Little Debbie
The Four Guys (host): Fire
Bill Carlisle: Same Ol' Tale That the Crow Told Me/Gone Home
Johnny Carver: Lay Down, Sally/Rose Colored Glasses
The Four Guys: Forever in Bluejeans

A name some may not remember from that night is Linda Nail. Linda came to Nashville in 1973 from Wabash, Arkansas. She auditioned at Opryland and became part of the Country Music USA show at the park, performing there for the next seven years. As part of the show, she portrayed Barbara Mandrell, Tammy Wynette, and Minnie Pearl. At the same time, she was pursuing her own singing career, recording for Paragon and Ridgetop Records.

Linda appeared on the Opry many times, making her first appearance as a guest of Roy Acuff. She also made television appearances on the Ralph Emery and Porter Wagoner shows, in addition to appearing on WSM radio. She also toured with Glen Campbell, Tennessee Ernie Ford, Boots Randolph and Ronnie Prophet. Most recently, Linda and her husband own and operated Castle Recording Studio in Goodlettsville, Tennessee, where she sings demos for studio clients as well as producing.

Finally, it was 27 years ago, Saturday August 10, 1991 that Vince Gill became a member of the Grand Ole Opry:

1st show
6:30: Bonanza
Del Reeves (host): Girl on the Billboard
Skeeter Davis: The End of the World
Del Reeves: A Dozen Pair of Boots

6:45: Country Music Hall of Fame
Charlie Walker (host): Pick Me Up On Your Way Down
Bill Carlisle: Leave That Liar Alone
Charlie Walker: Drinking Champagne/Take Me Back to Tulsa

7:00: Shoney's
Jim Ed Brown (host): Everyday People
Jan Howard: You Don't Know Me
Billy Walker: You Gave Me A Mountain
Wilma Lee Cooper: Wildwood Flower
Ray Pillow: That Ain't No Way to Treat My Heart
Jim Ed Brown: Scarlet Ribbons

7:30: Standard Candy
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Osborne Brothers: Rocky Top/Kentucky
Vince Gill: Look at Us/When I Call Your Name

8:00: Martha White
Jimmy C Newman (host): Colinda
Jeannie Seely: Too Far Gone
Boxcar Willie: Cowboys & Horses; Hobos & Trains
Roy Drusky: Wings of A Dove
Opry Square Dance Band/Melvin Sloan Dancers: Sugar in the Gourd
Jimmy C Newman: Jambalaya

8:30: Pops Rite
Hank Snow (host): A Vanishing Breed
Jean Shepard: Home in San Antone/Time Changes Everything/Roly Poly
The Four Guys: Tennessee
Mike Snider: Shuckin the Corn
Hank Snow: I Almost Lost My Mind

2nd show
9:30: Dollar General
Del Reeves (host): Bells of Southern Bell
Skeeter Davis: Oh Happy Day
Vic Willis Trio: Colorado
Teddy Wilburn: Somebody's Back in Town
Bill Carlisle: Business Man
Del Reeves: Luckenbach Texas

10:00: Little Debbie
Jim Ed Brown (host): Southern Loving
Charlie Louvin: When I Stop Dreaming
Jim Ed Brown: The Old Lamplighter

10:15: Tennessee Pride/Sunbeam
Roy Acuff (host): Just a Friend
Vince Gill: Pocket Full of Gold/When I Call Your Name

10:30: Pet Milk
Charlie Walker (host): San Antonio Rose
Jan Howard: Somebody's Always Saying Goodbye
Charlie Walker: Don't Squeeze My Sharmon

10:45: B.C. Powder
Jimmy C Newman (host): Big Mamou
David Houston: My Elusive Dreams
Opry Square Dance Band/Melvin Sloan Dancers: Blackberry Blossom
Jimmy C Newman: (?)

11:00: Coca-Cola
Hank Snow (host): Between Fire and Water
Jean Shepard: Slippin' Away
Justin Tubb: Waltz Across Texas
Osborne Brothers: Bluegrass Melodies/Midnight Flyer
Hank Snow: I've Done at Least One Thing That Was Good in My Life

11:30: Creamette
Boxcar Willie (host): Train Melody
Jeannie Seely: Go Down Swinging
The Four Guys: Elvira/Elizabeth/Old Flames/Church on the Cumberland Road/Dumas Walker
Mike Snider: Snuff Dipper
Boxcar Willie: Cowboys & Horses; Hobos & Trains

There you have it for this week. I hope everyone enjoys the Opry this weekend.

Tuesday Night Opry 8/7 & Wednesday Night Opry 8/8

Here are the line-ups for the mid-week shows:

Tuesday August 7
7:00: John Conlee; Jim Lauderdale
7:30: Danielle Bradbery; The SteelDrivers
Intermission
8:15: Bill Anderson; Carly Pearce
8:45: Luke Combs

Wednesday August 8
7:00: Larry Gatlin & The Gatlin Brothers; Del McCoury Band
7:30: Mandy Barnett; Drake White
Intermission
8:15: Riders In The Sky; Ashley McBryde; Brett Young

Interesting that there are the same number of artists on each show, but there are four segments on Tuesday night but only three on Wednesday.

Big weekend coming up as Carrie Underwood will be performing on all four shows, two on Friday and two on Saturday.

August Opry Highlights

Roll out those lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer!! And where has summer gone? I can't believe that August has begun and many children are returning to school. It has gone fast. I hope everyone is enjoying some great weather and warm temperatures, where ever you are. As usual, here are the important and historical events that have taken place in the history of the Grand Ole Opry, or regarding Opry members, during the month of August:

August 22, 1910: Country Music Hall of Fame member, and former Grand Ole Opry comedian, Rod Brasfield was born in Smithville, Mississippi. Rod joined the Opry in the late 1940s and was famous for his comedy routines with Minnie Pearl and June Carter, among others. Rod was a member of the Opry until he passed away in September 1958.

August 30, 1919: Muriel Ellen Deason, known professionally as Kitty Wells, was born in Nashville. Kitty, along with her husband Johnny Wright, were members of the Grand Ole Opry from the early 1950s until they left the show in December 1964 over a dispute regarding booking fees. Although they left the Opry cast, Kitty would come back to make a few guest appearances on the show. There are also some reports that she asked to rejoin the Opry cast in her later years, but the request was declined. Kitty passed away in July 2012.

August 8, 1921: Webb Pierce was born in West Monroe, Louisiana. Webb first appeared on the Opry in 1952, and joined the cast shortly after. He was an Opry member for a very short period of time as he figured out he was losing out on a lot of money by not appearing on the road on Saturday nights. Webb would come back and make an occasional appearance in his later years. In 2001, after his death, Webb was elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame.

August 28, 1925: The great guitarist Billy Grammer was born in Benton, Illinois. Billy joined the Opry in 1959 and was as well known for his guitar playing as he was for his singing. His career song was "Gotta Travel On." Billy remained a member of the Opry until his death in August 2011, after spending more than 50 years as an Opry member.

August 12, 1927: The man known as "The Wagonmaster," Porter Wagoner was born in West Plains, Missouri. Porter came to the Opry in 1957 from the Ozark Jubilee, and he would remain a very popular Opry member until his death in October 2007, shortly after celebrating 50 years as a member of the Opry. During his long career, this Hall of Fame member had over 80 singles on the country charts and was instrumental in the career of a number of country music artists, including Norma Jean, Dolly Parton, Mel Tillis, Buck Trent and Patty Loveless, among others. Even to this day, Porter is missed at the Opry.

August 29, 1927: Jimmy C Newman was born in High Point, Louisiana. Jimmy joined the Opry in August 1956 and along with his Cajun Band, was a very popular member of the Opry. You could always count on a bouncy, cajun sound whenever Jimmy appeared on the Opry. Jimmy passed away in June 2014 after a short illness.

August 4, 1931: Former Grand Ole Opry manager Hal Durham was born in McMinnville, Tennessee. After the Grand Ole Opry moved to Opryland and the new Grand Ole Opry House, Hal was asked by newly promoted Opry general manager Bud Wendall to come and help him out. It worked out pretty well and soon Hal was running the Opry. He received the official title of general manager in 1978 and would hold that position for the next 15 years. It should be noted that it was under Hal's direction attendance requirements were relaxed, and a number of members were added to the cast with no commitment to the show. After a long retirement, Hal passed away in March 2009.

March 20, 1935: Justin Tubb was born in San Antonio, Texas. Justin would follow in the footsteps of his famous father Ernest and became a successful country music singer, along with being a fine songwriter. Justin became a member of the Grand Ole Opry in 1955, at the age of 20. At the time he was the Opry's youngest member. Justin remained with the Opry until his sudden death in January 1998.

August 14, 1941: Constance June Meador was born in Elkhart, Indiana. Better known as Connie Smith, she joined the Grand Ole Opry in 1965, left for a few years, then returned for good. In 2015 she celebrated 50 years as a member of the Opry, and sounds as great as ever.

August 11, 1946: Grand Ole Opry member John Conlee was born in Versallies, Kentucky. John, who has one of the unique voices in country music, joined the Opry in 1981 and remains a very active member of the cast.

August 11, 1952: Hank Williams was fired as a member of the Grand Ole Opry by Opry manager Jim Denny. Hank was fired because it was determined that his behavior and personal habits were detrimental to the Opry, and country music in general. Hank was very upset and disappointed at being fired and had hoped that one day he could return as an Opry member. However, Hank passed away and his Opry return never took place.

August 16, 1952: Grandpa Jones, who had left Nashville for a short period of time, rejoined the cast of the Opry. Grandpa had first joined the show in the 1940s.

August 29, 1953: James Clell Summey, known professionally as Cousin Jody officially became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Jody first came to the Opry in 1938 as a part of Roy Acuff's group. He also performed with Pee Wee King and Eddy Arnold. While he appeared on the Opry many times as a solo artist, he also appeared with Lonzo & Oscar. While he was noted for his comedy skills, Jody was also a fabulous dobro player, and in fact it was Jody who first played the dobro on the Opry and helped to define the Acuff sound. Cousin Jody stayed as a member of the Opry until the early 1970s, when health issues forced him to retire. He passed away in August 1975.

August 14, 1954: Ernest Tubb took a leave of absence from the Grand Ole Opry. He was gone for a couple of months, returning in November of that year. What is strange about this is that while he was gone from the Opry, Ernest still hosted the Midnight Jamboree each week. Several reasons and rumors were given as to the reason for not appearing on the Opry, with health related issues being the most common.

August 28, 1954: Stringbean, or "String Beans" as he was referred to during this period of time, left the cast of the Grand Ole Opry to join the Ramblin' Tommy Scott Show. He was gone for just a short period of time and returned to the Opry, where he would remain until his death in November 1973.

August 4, 1956: As best as can be determined, Jimmy C Newman became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Except for a very brief period of time when Jimmy was absent from the show, Jimmy would remain with the Opry until his death in 2014. On a side note, when Jimmy first joined the Opry, the "C" was missing as at that point he had not dedicated himself to the cajun sound that he would later become famous for.

August 11, 1956: This is the date that George Jones first became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. The dates have changed numerous times over the years as George would come and go from the Opry. Among other dates listed in various editions of the Grand Ole Opry History Picture Book are August 4, 1956; January 4, 1969 (he did rejoin the cast on that date after previously leaving), and in the 1979 edition of the book, a 1973 date is listed. Not that it all mattered as George wasn't on the Opry all that often, but whenever he did George received a great ovation.

August 22, 1957: Former Grand Ole Opry member Holly Dunn was born in San Antonio. Texas. Holly was an Opry member for a number of years before retiring and leaving Nashville in 2003. After she left town, the Opry dropped her as a member. Holly passed away in November 2016 after a battle with cancer.

August 4, 1959: Skeeter Davis became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. With the exception for a period on time in the 1970s when she was suspended from the Opry's cast, Skeeter was an Opry member until her death in 2004. Skeeter, who's biggest hit was "The End of the World" make her final Opry appearance in 2002, after which declining health forced her into retirement. Skeeter was always bouncy when on the Opry and brought a smile to a lot of faces.

August 8, 1959: Jim Reeves rejoined the cast of the Grand Ole Opry. Jim first joined the Opry in 1955. He had left the show a year earlier because of the demands on his career.

August 26, 1961: Future Grand Ole Opry member Ray Pillow made his debut on the Opry. Ray made a great impression and was invited back for more appearances, which eventually led to Ray becoming an Opry member in April 1966.

August 10, 1963: Jim Ed, Maxine and Bonnie, known collectively as The Browns, became members of the Grand Ole Opry. While Maxine and Bonnie left the act in 1967 due to family considerations, Jim Ed continued on as a solo member. Over the years, Maxine and Bonnie would return for guest appearances and it was always a special treat when they did. Jim Ed was an Opry member for over 50 years, before passing away in 2015. Bonnie passed away in 2016, while Maxine continues to go strong. In 2015, The Browns were elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame.

August 23, 1963: Former Grand Ole Opry member Milton Estes died at the age of 49. Milton was originally a member of Pee Wee King's Golden West Cowboys and served as the groups announcer.

August 27, 1963: Former Grand Ole Opry manager Jim Denny passed away from cancer at the age of 52. When he became the Opry's manager, Jim was the first WSM employee to specifically be given that role. During his time with the Opry, he brought dozens of new members to the show including Webb Pierce, who would later be his partner in Cedarwood Publishing, one of the first music publishing companies to locate in Nashville. It was the success of Cedarwood that led to Jim leaving the Opry as WSM management viewed it as a conflict of interest. In 1966, Jim Denny was elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame.

August 8, 1964: The Osborne Brothers, Bobby and Sonny, became members of the Grand Ole Opry. While both are still considered members of the Grand Ole Opry, Sonny retired from performing in 2005, at which time Bobby continued with his own group, The Rocky Top X-Press. On this same date, Dottie West became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Dottie, who was finally elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame this past year, passed away in September 1991.

August 14, 1965: Bobby Bare became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Bobby stayed as an Opry member until March 1974, when he quit the cast as the show moved to the new Grand Ole Opry House. 43 years later, on April 7, 2018, Bobby had his Opry membership reinstated, a move that was well received by everyone at the Opry.

August 21, 1965: After changing the date several different times, this seems to be the date that the Opry recognizes as to when Connie Smith became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Originally the Opry listed the date as in June, then switched to the August date. What is interesting in either case is that Connie did not appear on the Opry on this date, but actually first appeared as on Opry member a month later, in September. Regardless, this will be Connie's 53rd year as an Opry member.

August 28, 1965: After suffering serious injuries seven weeks earlier in a car accident, Roy Acuff returned to the Opry stage.

August 17, 1967: Charlie Walker became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Charlie, who is a member of the Country Music Disc Jockey Hall of Fame, came to the Opry from Texas, where he launched his very successful recording career. Charlie was always a very active member of the Opry, and continued to perform on the show until his death in September 2008.

August 5, 1968: Grand Ole Opry member Terri Clark was born in Montreal, Canada. As a Canadian, she would join Hank Snow and Stu Phillips as the only Opry members from the land up north.

August 12, 1972: David Houston became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. David was another of the artists who came to Nashville, and the Opry, via the Louisiana Hayride. His signature song was the great classic, "Almost Persuaded" which spent weeks at No. 1 on the country charts. David remained an Opry member until he passed away in November 1993.

August 21, 1975: Grand Ole Opry member, and on of the original members, Sam McGee died in a tractor accident on his farm in Tennessee. He was 81. Along with his brother Kirk, he first performed on the WSM Barn Dance in 1926. During his time at the Opry, Sam would appear with various individuals and groups including the Dixieliners. Sam was the first Opry member to use an electric guitar on the show, after which George D. Hay told him to put it back in the case, take it home, and not bring it back.

August 11, 1976: Roy Acuff returned to the Grand Ole Opry stage after suffering a heart attack earlier in the year.

August 11, 1979: Guy Willis, a member of The Willis Brothers, made his final appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. Along with his brothers Skeeter and Guy, The Willis Brothers joined the Opry in 1946, left to tour with Eddy Arnold, and returned in 1957.

August 7, 1981: B.J. Thomas became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. However, he did not remain with the Opry for very long, leaving just several years later. For B.J., Opry membership just did not turn out the way he thought it would.

August 22, 1981: Don Williams made his final appearance as a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Don joined the cast in 1976, and much like B.J. Thomas a little later, found out that Opry membership just wasn't what he expected.

August 14, 1982: Grand Ole Opry legend Ernest Tubb made his final appearance on the Opry. Suffering from emphysema, Ernest had a difficult time breathing, which made singing very difficult. Not only was this his final Opry appearance, but it was also the final night that Ernest hosted the Midnight Jamboree. After his final appearances in Nashville, he made one more short, final tour in November before retiring and spending his remaining years at his home in Nashville.

August 28, 1982: Just two weeks after the final Opry appearance by Ernest Tubb, Marty Robbins performed on the Grand Ole Opry for the final time. Marty had been a fixture as the host of the 11:30 segment of the show for years. Marty, who suffered from heart issues, would pass away in December.

August 6, 1983: After previously giving up her Opry membership, Norma Jean returned for a guest appearance on the Grand Ole Opry.

August 24, 1984: Rock artist Neil Young made his debut on the Opry stage. While he is best known for his rock appearances, and being a member of Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, Neil has written a number of country music songs.

August 22, 1987: Roy Clark became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. This will be Roy's 31st year as an Opry member. While he is getting up there in age, Roy still comes out to the Opry once in a while, and sounds great.

August 29, 1987: Grand Ole Opry member Archie Campbell passed away in a Knoxville, Tennessee hospital at the age of 73. He had been in declining health, dealing with heart issues. Archie joined the Opry in 1958 and achieved some of his greatest success as a member of the cast of Hee Haw. Archie was known for his comedy and story telling and often used one of the Opry's announcers as his straight man. In his later years, Archie would make most of his Opry appearances in the winter months, spending the prime tourist season performing at his theater in Gatlinburg.

August 6, 1988: Former Grand Ole Opry member Webb Pierce performed on the Opry for the final time. Webb was a member of the Opry for a short amount of time in the 1950s, when he was the hottest act in country music. Webb, however, found that he was missing out on too much money if he was in Nashville every Saturday night instead of out on the road. After giving up his Opry membership, Webb would still occasionally guest on the show.

August 10, 1991: Vince Gill became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. This will be his 27th year as an Opry member. On the night he joined, he was introduced by Roy Acuff. Over the years, Vince has made known his love of the Opry and has challenged others of his generation to support the show.

August 30, 1991: On her way to the Friday Night Opry, Dottie West was involved in a serious car accident at the entrance to Opryland, which would ultimately prove to be fatal. While Dottie put up a struggle and went through several surgeries, she would pass away a week later.

August 31, 1995: Former Grand Ole Opry and WSM announcer David Stone passed away at the age of 93. Along with his brother Harry, David helped to change to focus of the Opry from a regional show into a nationally recognized professional one. He helped to bring such artists, and professionals, as Pee Wee King, Roy Acuff, and Eddy Arnold to the Opry.

August 9, 1996: Hank Snow returned to the Grand Ole Opry for the first time that year. He had been suffering from respiratory issues. He performed three songs that night, including the hit, "I Don't Hurt Anymore." Hank would make just a few more Opry appearances before retiring the following month.

August 24, 1998: Grand Ole Opry member Jerry Clower died in a Jackson, Mississippi hospital after undergoing open heart surgery. He was 71. Jerry joined the Opry in November 1973, the last member to join the cast before the show moved to the new Grand Ole Opry House. A great comedian and storyteller, Jerry was loved by many.

August 26, 2000: Pam Tillis became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. For Pam, this will be her 18th year as an Opry member.

August 18, 2001: The Grand Ole Opry moved the televised portion of the Opry from TNN to CMT, as TNN changed into Spike TV and changed their focus away from country music. The first show on CMT featured Vince Gill, who celebrated 10 years as an Opry member. Also appearing that night were Steve Wariner, Sonya Isaacs, Jimmy C. Newman, Brad Paisley, Elizabeth Cook and Loretta Lynn. Quite an impressive line-up for the televised portion.

August 10, 2002: During the televised portion of the Grand Ole Opry on CMT, the Dixie Chicks announced that Porter Wagoner and Bill Carlisle had been elected as the newest members of the Country Music Hall of Fame. Personally, I have always felt that the Hall of Fame did an injustice to both Porter and Bill by having the Dixie Chicks make the announcement as part of an Opry show. Nothing again the Dixie Chicks, I just thought the Hall of Fame should have made a bigger deal out of the announcement. In Porter's case, it was long overdue. It is still fun going back an looking at the tape of that night as Porter looked like he was biting his tongue and holding back what I think he really wanted to say.

August 23, 2002: Grand Ole Opry member Del Reeves made his final appearance on the Opry. Del entered a period of declining health that led to his retirement from the Opry. As with so many others of that generation, Del suffered from respiratory issues and emphysema, which would lead to his death several years later.

August 31, 2002: The Grand Ole Opry celebrated its 4,000 Saturday night broadcast. The Opry did a tribute to Minnie Pearl that featured Clint Black, Barbara Mandrell, Vince Gill, Amy Grant and Steve Wariner.

August 23, 2003: Trace Adkins became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. This will be his 15th year as an Opry member. On the night of his induction, his idol Ronnie Milsap did the honors, assisted by Lorrie Morgan.

August 12, 2006: Grand Ole Opry member Jimmy C Newman was recognized upon his 50th year as a member of the Grand Ole Opry.

August 25, 2010: In a special ceremony, Brad Paisley and Jimmy Dickens sang, "Will The Circle Be Unbroken" as the historic center piece of wood was returned to the stage of the Grand Ole Opry House after being damaged in the historic flood of May 2010. Thanks to extensive repair and renovation, the center circle was restored to its former condition.

August 6, 2011: The Oak Ridge Boys became members of the Grand Ole Opry. The Opry had wanted the quartet as members for years, however they had always declined due to their heavy touring schedule. However, 7 years ago the Oak Ridge Boys felt the time was right and they accepted the offer by Jimmy Dickens to join the cast. On the night they joined, the group sang, "Bobby Sue," "Amazing Grace," and of course, "Elvira." Every time they are on the Opry, they never fail to receive a standing ovation.

August 13, 2011: Vince Gill celebrated 20 years as a member of the Grand Ole Opry, in a show dedicated to Grand Ole Opry member Billy Grammer, who had passed away earlier in the week. Joining Vince that night, who opened the show performing Billy's great hit, "Gotta Travel On" were Amy Grant, Martina McBride, and Emmylou Harris, among others.

August 16, 2013: During a concert appearance in Cleveland, Ohio, Old Crow Medicine Show was surprised by Grand Ole Opry member Marty Stuart, who invited Old Crow to become the newest members of the Grand Ole Opry. Of course, they accepted and a month later became official Opry members. Personally, this was one of the best moves the Opry had made in many years.

August 7, 2014: Earl White, the last remaining member of the Crook Brothers square dance band, passed away after a short illness. After the passing of Herman Crook, and then Lewis Crook, Earl continued as the fiddle player for the square dancers, joined by Charlie Collins before he passed away.

August 8, 2015: Connie Smith was honored for 50 years as a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Marty Stuart hosted a one hour segment of the show, which included Connie singing her monster hit, "Once A Day."

August 13, 2016: Vince Gill was honored upon his 25th anniversary as a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Vince hosted two shows that night, both of which lasted over 3 hours. Vince as on stage the entire night, with both shows featuring Bill Anderson, Ashley Monroe, Rodney Crowell, Charlie Worsham, and of course, his wife, Amy Grant. As someone who was there, it was a spectacular night.

August 29, 2017: Chris Young was invited by Vince Gill to become a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Chris was formally inducted in October.

Grand Ole Opry 8/3 & 8/4

The line-ups have been posted for the two Opry shows this weekend, the Friday Night Opry and Saturday's Grand Ole Opry. One show each night.

Looking at the list of Grand Ole Opry members appearing, Connie Smith, Bill Anderson, The Whites, and Mike Snider, who has been missing the last couple of weeks, are scheduled for both nights. They will be joined on Friday night by members Larry, Steve and Rudy, the Gatlin Brothers, while on Saturday night Jeannie Seely will join the group. That comes out to five members each night.

Guesting on both nights this weekend will be Christian comedian Chonda Pierce. Joining her on Friday night will be Adam Craig, Shelly Fairchild, Chuck Mead & His Grassy Knoll Boys, Wade Hayes, William Michael Morgan, and making their annual appearance, Wild Blue Country.

Saturday night, in addition to Chonda, we will see a return appearance by The McCrary Sisters. Joining those two will be Jackie Lee, Kalie Shorr, John Berry and the legendary Gene Watson.

Friday August 3
7:00: Connie Smith (host); Adam Craig; The Whites
7:30: Mike Snider (host); Shelly Fairchild; Chuck Mead & His Grassy Knoll Boys
Intermission
8:15: Bill Anderson (host); Wade Hayes; Chonda Pierce
8:45: Larry Gatlin & The Gatlin Brothers (host); Wild Blue Country; William Michael Morgan

Saturday August 4
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Jackie Lee; The Whites
7:30: Mike Snider (host); Kalie Shorr; Gene Watson
Intermission
8:15: Connie Smith (host); Chonda Pierce; Opry Square Dancers
8:45: Bill Anderson (host); John Berry; The McCrary Sisters

Two pretty nice shows this weekend.

And now, here is the posted Grand Ole Opry line-up from ten years ago, the 1st weekend in August 2008:

Friday August 1
8:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Connie Smith; Mark Wills
8:30: Jimmy C Newman (host); Mountain Heart; David Ball
9:00: Jean Shepard (host); Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Raul Malo
9:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); Buddy Jewell; Mandy Barnett

Saturday August 2
1st show
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Jimmy C Newman; Randy Houser
7:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Jamey Johnson
8:00: Jean Shepard (host); Stu Phillips; Raul Malo; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: John Conlee (host); Connie Smith; The Grascals

2nd show
9:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Jimmy C Newman; Randy Houser
10:00: Jim Ed Brown (host); Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Jamey Johnson
10:30: Jean Shepard (host); Jan Howard; Raul Malo; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: John Conlee (host); Connie Smith; The Grascals

Now from 25 years ago, Saturday August 7, 1993:

1st show
6:30: Jack Greene (host); Skeeter Davis
6:45: Grandpa Jones (host); Jeannie Seely; Charlie Walker
7:00: Bill Monroe (host); The Four Guys; Jimmy C Newman; Jim Ed Brown; Jean Shepard
7:30: Del Reeves (host); Teddy Wilburn; Brother Oswald; Dude Mowrey
8:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Riders In The Sky; Charlie Louvin; The Whites; Opry Square Dance Band; Melvin Sloan Dancers
8:30: Hank Snow (host); Jeanne Pruett; Ray Pillow; Roy Drusky; Mike Snider

2nd show
9:30: Porter Wagoner (host); Charlie Louvin; Jan Howard; Wilma Lee Cooper; Dude Mowrey
10:00: Grandpa Jones (host); Bill Carlisle; Jean Shepard
10:15: Bill Monroe (host); Del Reeves
10:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); Mike Snider
10:45: Jimmy C Newman (host); The Four Guys; Opry Square Dance Band; Melvin Sloan Dancers
11:00: Hank Snow (host); The Whites; Justin Tubb; Stonewall Jackson; Riders In The Sky
11:30: Jack Greene (host); Jeanne Pruett; Roy Drusky; Johnny Russell

Ok, let's be honest. Who remembers Dan "The Dude" Mowrey?

Dan was from Fort Lauderdale, Florida and was discovered by Mel Tillis in the mid-1980s while he was still a teenager. Mel acted as Dan's manager and helped to get the singer signed to Capital Records in 1991. His debut album, "Honky Tonk" was released in 1991 and included the singles "Cowboy's Don't Cry" and "Honky Tonk Song," which Mel had written for Webb Pierce. By 1993, Dan had moved to Arista Nashville and released a self-titled album as well as three singles. After that, he disappeared from the Nashville scene and reemerged in 2002 with limited success.

To finish it up this week, it was 30 years ago, Saturday August 6, 1988, that former Grand Ole Opry member Webb Pierce made his final guest appearance.

1st show
6:30: Mrs. Grissoms
Charlie Walker (host): Right or Wrong
Wilma Lee Cooper: This Old House
Charlie Walker: Just Call Me Lonesome/Take Me Back to Tulsa

6:45: Rudy's
The Four Guys (host): Sing it High; Sing it Low
Jeannie Seely: Why Doesn't He Just Leave Me Alone
The Four Guys: Look Out for Me, Oh Muddy Water

7:00: Shoney's
Jack Greene (host): My World Ain't Turning Yet
Jean Shepard: A Stranger in My Place
Ray Pillow: So Far, Not So Good
Webb Pierce: There Stands the Glass/Memory No. 1
Jack Greene: You Are My Treasure/There Goes My Everything

7:30: Standard Candy
Tom T Hall (host): Faster Horses
Osborne Brothers: Midnight Flyer
Jeanne Pruett: Satin Sheets
The Wagoneers: I Want to Know Her Again/Every Step of the Way
Tom T Hall: The Old Side of Town

8:00: Martha White
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Jan Howard: Somebody's Always Saying Goodbye/Faded Love
Billy Walker: A Million and One/Charlie's Shoes
Bill Carlisle: I'm Moving
Opry Square Dance Band/Stoney Mountain Cloggers: Rachel
Roy Acuff: I Saw the Light

8:30: Music Valley Merchants
Hank Snow (host): Send Me the Pillow You Dream On
Stonewall Jackson: Why I'm Walkin'
Vic Willis Trio: American Trilogy
Teddy Wilburn: Lovesick Blues
Connie Smith: Sing, Sing, Sing
Hank Snow: Among My Souviners

2nd show
9:30: Dollar General
Jack Greene (host): Try a Little Kindness
David Houston: Have a Little Faith
Wilma Lee Cooper: Big Midnight Special
Ray Pillow: Don't We All Have the Right
The Four Guys: Tennessee
Jack Greene: Don't You Ever Get Tired of Hurting Me/Midnight Tennessee Woman

10:00: Little Debbie
Charlie Walker (host): Cherokee Maiden
Jeannie Seely: Tell Me Again
Charlie Walker: Just Call Me Lonesome/San Antonio Rose

10:15: Sunbeam
Roy Acuff (host): Meeting in the Air
Tom T Hall: Old Dogs, Children, & Watermelon Wine/I Love
Roy Acuff: I'll Fly Away

10:30: Pet Milk
Osborne Brothers (host): Flying South
Roy Drusky: Time Has Made a Change in Me
Osborne Brothers: Kentucky
Glenn Duncan: Katy Hill

10:45: B.C. Powder
Billy Walker (host): Down to My Last Cigarette
Jean Shepard: At the Time
Opry Square Dance Band/Stoney Mountain Cloggers: Bill Cheatham
Billy Walker: Wild Texas Rose

11:00: Coca Cola
Hank Snow (host): Snowbird
Jeanne Pruett: Satin Sheets
Justin Tubb: Looking Back to See
Webb Pierce: In the Jailhouse Now/I'm Walkin' the Dog
Hank Snow: Little Buddy

11:30: Creamette
Stonewall Jackson (host): Me & You & A Dog Named Boo
Jan Howard: Slow Burning Memory
Bill Carlisle: Leave that Liar Alone
Teddy Wilburn: Arkansas
Connie Smith: I've Got My Baby on My Mind
Stonewall Jackson: Ol' Chunk of Coal/Waterloo

Appearing on the first show that night were The Wagoneers.

Webb Pierce had been an Opry member for a short amount of time in the 1950s. He left just a few years after joining when he figured out how much money he was losing on Saturday night dates that he had to give up to be at the Opry. At the time, Webb was the hottest thing going in country music. A very successful artist and businessman, Webb still would do the Opry on occasion. In 2001, after he had passed away, he was elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame.

There you have it for the first weekend in August. I hope everyone enjoys the Opry this weekend.