The Grand Ole Opry moves back down to the Ryman Auditorium for the next three months, and for the next six weeks will be running two shows on both Friday and Saturday nights. Remember the days when the Opry would switch up the line-ups and the running order of the shows on those Friday and Saturday nights when there were two shows? Well, not so much anymore, as with just a couple of minor exceptions, both shows each night are very similar. Same artists. Same hosts. Same running order. In fact, the only exception on the Friday Night Opry this week is Bobby Osborne only scheduled to do the first show, while on Saturday night, the only change is Mike Snider on just the early show.
As to the rest of Opry members scheduled this weekend, John Conlee and Connie Smith are the only two members scheduled for all four shows. Mike Snider is scheduled for three of the four (both Friday shows and the early Saturday show), while Riders In The Sky are down for both Friday shows and Jesse McReynolds and The Whites set for both Saturday shows.
There is a wide variety of guest artists scheduled this weekend. On the Friday Night Opry, younger artists Adam Hambrick and Erin Enderlin are scheduled, along with Temecula Road, who will be making their Opry debut. Also scheduled are veteran artists Shenandoah and the legendary Gene Watson, along with John Schneider and Russell Moore & III Tyme Out, who will add some bluegrass to the night.
Saturday's Grand Ole Opry will have comedians Williams & Ree, the all-female group Sister Sadie returning, The Steel Woods, Hall of Fame songwriter Don Schlitz, The Swon Brothers, and making his Opry debut, Dylan Schneider.
Friday November 1
1st show
7:00: John Conlee (host); Adam Hambrick; Russell Moore & III Tyme Out
7:30: Mike Snider (host); Erin Enderlin; John Schneider
8:00: Connie Smith (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Temecula Road
8:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Gene Watson; Shenandoah
2nd show
9:30: John Conlee (host); Adam Hambrick; Russell Moore & III Tyme Out
10:00: Mike Snider (host); Erin Enderlin; John Schneider
10:30: Connie Smith (host); Gene Watson; Temecula Road
11:00: Riders In The Sky (host); Shenandoah
Saturday November 2
1st show
7:00: John Conlee (host); The Swon Brothers; Jesse McReynolds
7:30: Mike Snider (host); The Steel Woods; Don Schlitz
8:00: The Whites (host); Williams & Ree; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Connie Smith (host); Dylan Schneider; Sister Sadie
2nd show
9:30: John Conlee (host); The Swon Brothers; Jesse McReynolds; The Steel Woods; Don Schlitz
10:30: The Whites (host); Williams & Ree; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Connie Smith (host); Dylan Schneider; Sister Sadie
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As mentioned, Temecula Road and Dylan Schneider will be making their Opry debuts this weekend.
Comprised of sisters Emma (20, vocals/mandolin) and Maddie Salute (18, vocals), and long-time friend Dawson Anderson (20, vocals/guitar) — Temecula Road are known for their trademark harmonies and their covers which have earned praise from Carrie Underwood, Dan + Shay, and Brett Eldredge.
Named after the California town where they grew up, the trio just released their new single “Never Knew I Needed You,” a Rolling Stone “10 Best Country Song To Hear Now.” The vibey new track—written by the trio’s Dawson Anderson, along with Ben Goldsmith and Lindsay Rimes and produced by Andrew DeRoberts (Devin Dawson, Kip Moore, Eli Young Band, Jillian Jacqueline)—is their second new song of the summer, a follow-up to “Fades” which hit No. 3 on Radio Disney Country’s Top 50 Chart.
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Dylan Schneider is wise beyond his years, especially when it comes to his songwriting. But perhaps even more impressive is Schneider’s ability and willingness to connect with fans on a personal level. “I used to freak out if an artist would respond or interact with me. It’s incredibly important to me that I do the same with my fans.”
A typical, small-town kid with dreams of playing baseball in the big leagues, Schneider’s direction shifted when he began listening to and connecting with country music. His love and understanding for music was instilled by his family. After receiving a guitar as an early Christmas present, he went to a meet-and-greet for country artist Brett Eldredge, who told Schneider, “keep playing until your fingers bleed – I believe in you. Never give up and always keeps jamming.”
Though the early (and now signed) Christmas present soon took a safer place on the wall, Schneider’s parents bought him a second guitar, which he immediately took to playing relentlessly. In high school, Schneider started a band with some friends. “It was fun for a while - but it became apparent my friends weren’t as into the whole music thing as I was.” Unwilling to relent, Schneider continued to pursue music solo. “I played out locally quite a bit. Playing acoustic sets for people was always much more fun than having a real job like most kids my age.” Schneider also began shooting cover videos for his YouTube channel and building his social following. “It was a slow build at first. But eventually my videos were getting 20,000-30,000 views each.” Schneider and his fans have taken over the country music conversation digitally, with a rapidly growing 130 million total streams on Spotify and over 50 million video views. Each release finds Schneider surpassing his peers and connecting with his listeners in a meaningful way, strengthening the foundation he has been building for years.
The progress was enough to catch the attention of Interscope Records who proceeded to sign Schneider in 2017. After the release of single “No Problem,” GRAMMY Award-winning duo Florida Georgia Line joined forces with Interscope via their newly established Round Here Records to further invest in Schneider, offering him a support spot on their “Can’t Say I Ain’t Country” Tour. On August 23rd, Schneider released his latest EP Whole Town Talk. As he continues to work on new music, content and tour dates for 2020, Schneider’s focus remains the importance of the fan. “When I write, I’m thinking, ‘how is this song going to sing live, and how will the audience react and identify?’ What I do, most importantly, is for my fans. My job is to connect and show them a good time.”
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And now, here is the posted Grand Ole Opry line-up from 10 years ago, the weekend of October 30 & 31, 2009. One show each night and it was the final weekend that the Opry was at the Grand Ole Opry House as beginning in November the Opry moved to its winter home, the Ryman Auditorium
Friday October 30
7:00: Riders In The Sky (host); The Whites; Jean Shepard; Sunny Sweeney
7:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Doyle Dykes
8:00: Mike Snider (host); Jan Howard; Jim Ed Brown; David Nail
8:30: Vince Gill (host); Connie Smith; Keith Urban
Saturday October 31
7:00: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jimmy C Newman; Jim Lauderdale
7:30: Mike Snider (host); Jean Shepard; Jim Ed Brown; Restless Heart
8:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Doyle Dykes; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Connie Smith; Blake Shelton
From 25 years ago, Saturday October 29, 1994:
1st show
6:30: Jack Greene (host); Brother Oswald
6:45: Billy Walker (host); Bill Carlisle
7:00: Jimmy Dickens (host); Wilma Lee Cooper; Charlie Louvin; Mike Snider; Jan Howard
7:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); Bill Monroe; Connie Smith; Del Reeves; Mark Collie
8:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Billy Grammer; Jean Shepard; Opry Square Dance Band
8:30: Hank Snow (host); Charlie Walker; Jeannie Seely; Riders In The Sky; Eddie Rabbit
2nd show
9:30: Porter Wagoner (host); Jimmy C Newman; Osborne Brothers; Ray Pillow; The Four Guys
10:00: Billy Walker (host); Charlie Louvin
10:15: Bill Monroe (host); James Monroe; Jean Shepard
10:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Eddie Rabbit
10:45: Jeanne Pruett (host); Charlie Walker; Opry Square Dance Band
11:00: Hank Snow (host); Jack Greene; Jeannie Seely; Mike Snider
11:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Connie Smith; Del Reeves; Mark Collie
Finally, from 50 years ago, Saturday November 1, 1969:
1st show
6:30: The Four Guys (host); Wilma Lee Cooper; Bobby Lewis
6:45: Justin Tubb (host); Del Wood; Ben Shaw
7:00: Roy Acuff (host); Billy Grammer; Red Sovine
7:30: Stu Phillips (host); Joe and Rose Lee Maphis; Harden Trio; Crook Brothers; Glen Barber
8:00: Billy Walker (host); Liz Anderson; Duke of Paducah; Louis Roberts
8:30: Ernest Tubb (host); Earl Scruggs Revue; Bill Carlisle; Fruit Jar Drinkers; Billy Parker
2nd show
9:30: Justin Tubb (host); Wilma Lee Cooper; Bobby Lewis
10:00: Roy Acuff (host); Earl Scruggs Revue
10:15: Billy Grammer (host); The Four Guys; Red Sovine
10:30: Stu Phillips (host); Del Wood; Joe and Rose Lee Maphis
10:45: Ernest Tubb (host); Harden Trio; Crook Brothers
11:00: Billy Walker (host); Bill Carlisle; Duke of Paducah; Crook Brothers; Glen Barber; Sam McGee
11:30: Marty Robbins (host); Liz Anderson; Louis Roberts
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Looking back, here are two line-ups for you. The first is from November 2, 1963, which was the night of the Grand Ole Opry's 38th Birthday Celebration:
6:30: Rudy's
Jimmy Newman (host): The Mover
Kitty Wells: Heartaches for a Keepsake
Johnny Wright: O Baby Mine
Stringbean: There Will Be Moonshine in them Old Kentucky Hills
Bobby Lord: Out Behind the Barn
Curly Fox: The Old Gray Mule
Kitty Wells: I Have My Wedding Dress Away
Jimmy Newman: DJ for a Day
7:00: Delited
Porter Wagoner (host): I've Enjoy as Much of This as I Can Stand
Roy Drusky: Peel Me a Nanner
Carl Butler: Don't Let Me Cross Over
Melba Montgomery: What's Bad for You is Good for Me
Bill Carlisle: No Help Wanted
Billy Walker: The Morning Paper
George Hamilton IV: Abilene
Porter Wagoner: In the Shadow of the Wine
7:30: Kellogg's
George Morgan (host): Alright, I'll Sign the Papers
Marion Worth: (?)
Hank Locklin: Send Me the Pillow You Dream On
Willis Brothers: Private
Bill Anderson: Still
Del Wood: Piano Roll Blues
Tex Ritter: Boll Weevil
Square Dancers: Soap Suds Over the Fence
George Morgan: One Dozen Roses
8:00: Martha White
Flatt and Scruggs (host): New York Town
Ferlin Husky: Gone
Loretta Lynn: Before I'm Over You
Archie Campbell: Comedy
Flatt and Scruggs: Mama Don't Allow It
Billy Grammer: (?)
Louvin Brothers: (?)
Crook Brothers: Lafayette
Flatt and Scruggs: Flint Hill Special
8:30: Stephens
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Bill Monroe: John Henry
Ray Price: San Antonio Rose
Minnie Pearl: Comedy
Sonny James: Going Through the Motions
Lonzo and Oscar: There's A Hole in the Bottom of the Sea
Skeeter Davis: The End of the World
Brother Oswald: Roll on, Buddy, Roll On
Roy Acuff: I'll Fly Away
9:00: Jefferson Island Salt
Ernest Tubb (host): Thanks's A Lot
Wilburn Brothers: (?)
Johnny Cash: (?)
Stringbean: Pretty Poly
June Carter and The Carters: (?)
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Soldiers Joy
Margie Bowes: Our Things
Ernest Tubb: The Way You're Living
9:30: Pet Milk
Hank Snow (host): Ninety Miles an Hour Down a Dead End Street
The Browns: The 3 Bells
Faron Young: Yellow Bandana
Jean Shepard: (?)
Porter Wagoner: Your Old Love Letters
Leroy Van Dyke: Happy to Be Unhappy
Wilma Lee and Stoney Cooper: There's a Big Wheel
Stonewall Jackson: B.J. the D.J.
Hank Snow: Blue Roses
10:00: Gates Rubber
Billy Grammer (host): (?)
Bobby Lord: Life Can Have Meaning
Curly Fox: T Model & A Train
Billy Walker: Heart, Be Careful
Billy Grammer: (?)
10:15: Luzianne
Roy Acuff (host): The Great Speckled Bird
Del Wood: Columbus Stockade Blues
Jimmy Newman: DJ for a Day
Roy Acuff: Wreck on the Highway
Howdy Forrester and Jimmy Riddle: Apple Blossoms
10:30: Harvey's
Ferlin Husky (host): Wings of a Dove
Louvin Brothers: (?)
Tex Ritter: (?)
Simon Crum: (?)
10:45: Ford
Faron Young (host): (?)
George Morgan: You're the Only Good Thing
Bill Anderson: Eight by Ten
Faron Young: (?)
11:00: Coca Cola
Hank Snow (host): I've Been Everywhere
Skeeter Davis: Something Precious
Roy Drusky: Second Hand Rose
The Browns: Oh, No
Lonzo and Oscar: Hand Holding
Wilma Lee and Stoney Cooper: Gloryland March
Sam and Kirk McGee: Let's Meet By the Old Oaken Bucket
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Love Somebody
Hank Snow: There's a Fool Such as I
11:30: SSS Tonic
Marty Robbins (host): Devil Woman
Bill Monroe: Blue Moon of Kentucky
Hank Locklin: Flying South
Wilburn Brothers: (?)
Stonewall Jackson: Wild, Wild Wind
Margie Bowes: Judge Not
Sonny James; The Minute You're Gone
Marty Robbins: Don't Worry
Well, that was a full night. Wasn't It!!
The second one is from Saturday November 1, 2003, which was the night in which Holly Dunn appeared on the Grand Ole Opry for the final time.
Holly Dunn became a member of the Grand Ole Opry in 1989, and was best known for her hit "Daddy's Hands." Except for a brief period of time in which she moved to Detroit and worked as a morning disc jockey, Dolly was a pretty loyal member of the Opry's cast. During her career, Holly had 19 songs that made it on to the country charts (eight of which made the Top 10) and released 10 albums. She had two #1 hits, "Are You Ever Gonna Love Me" and "You Really Had Me Going."
However, after a career that lasted almost 25 years, Holly made the decision to walk away from the music business and moved to New Mexico to follow her passion of art. But, after two years of being gone from Nashville, Holly received a phone call telling her that she was being fired as an Opry member.
"They like to keep the Opry roll at about 70 people who are actively performing," Dunn said at the time of the Opry's call explaining their decision. "I knew they'd been adding people since I left. But it hurt. Because I loved the Opry. And I still love the Opry. And I had really participated as a younger member. I hosted the TV show and backstage show for two years. I was Bill Anderson's substitute host when he couldn't be there. And I did commercials for them and radio for them. I loved the Opry and what it stood and stands for."
Holly said that while she understood the need for keeping the cast fresh, she wishes the rules could be eased a bit out of respect for the older artists.
"I have some amazing memories. I wish there was a way, though -- just to make a suggestion to them -- to keep a list of folks that were members in the past. This whole total expunging you from the list is sort of a little harsh, I think," she notes. "There are people on that list that I know for a fact might make it once a year if they're lucky. It's a little subjective. That's my only gripe."
Holly, who passed away in November 2016, insisted that she has no second thoughts about retiring from music.
Here is the running order from Saturday November 1, 2003, the final night in which Holly appeared on the Opry:
1st show
6:30: Tennessee Pride
Porter Wagoner (host): I'm Gonna Act Right
The Whites: Keep on the Sunny Side
Osborne Brothers: My Favorite Memory/Rocky Top
Jean Shepard: A Phone Call Away
Porter Wagoner: Green, Green Grass of Home
Porter Wagoner and Penny DeHaven: Milwaukee, Here I Come
7:00: Rutledge Hill Press/Standard Candy
Sara Evans: (?)
Jimmy Dickens: Me & My Big Loud Mouth/Out Behind the Barn
IIIrd Tyme Out: (?) Rock on the Deep/A Phone Call Away
Sara Evans: Perfect/On the Back Seat of a Greyhound Bus
Buddy Jewel: Help Pour out the Rain/Abilene on Her Mind
8:00: Martha White
Jeannie Seely (host): Pride
Holly Dunn: Daddy's Hands
Pat Boone: Love Letters in the Sand/Under God
Opry Square Dance Band: Cherokee Shuffle
Jeannie Seely: Don't Touch Me
8:30: Tootsie's
Bill Anderson (host): Wild Weekend
Jim Ed Brown: The Old Lamplighter
Mandy Barnett: Mansion on the Hill
Brad Paisley: Happy Birthday Bill/Celebrity
Bill Anderson: Still
2nd show
9:30: Coca-Cola
Jimmy Dickens (host): Sleepin' at the Foot of the Bed
The Whites: Pins and Needles/Keep on the Sunny Side
Mel McDaniel: Louisiana Saturday Night/Stand Up
Jimmy Dickens: What Will I Do Then
10:00: Country Music Hall of Fame
Jim Ed Brown (host): Southern Loving
Osborne Brothers: Fastest Grass Alive/Rocky Top
Sara Evans: Perfect/The Suds in the Bucket
Jim Ed Brown: The 3 Bells
10:30: Dreamworks
Jean Shepard (host): Second Fiddle
Billy Walker: You Gave Me A Mountain/Cross the Brazos at Waco
Buddy Jewell: Sweet Southern Comfort/Help Pour Out the Rain
Jean Shepard: Slippin' Away
Opry Square Dance Band: (?)
11:00: Cingular Wireless
Bill Anderson (host): I Love You Drops
IIIrd Tyme Out: (?)/The Moundsville Pen
Pat Boone: Love Letters in the Sand/Under God
Bill Anderson: Happy Birthday to Me
11:30: Merle Haggard CD
Jeannie Seely (host): Burning that Old Memory
Ray Pillow: I Wonder Who's Missing You Now
Holly Dunn: You Really Had Me Going
Mandy Barnett: No One Will Ever Know/Who Could It Be
Jeannie Seely: Today I Started Loving You Again
Without going into all the reasons and speculation, I found it sad that Holly was terminated as an Opry member. While it is true that others have retired or stopped appearing on the Opry, Holly was the only member let go. (Yes, I know that The Four Guys were fired also, but that was a different circumstance). I don't think it would have done the Opry any harm to have kept her as a member. After all, Ricky Van Shelton, among a dozen others, is still listed.
Holly always accepted her termination with class and dignity and choose to remember the good times that she had in Nashville and from being a part of the Opry's cast.
As always, thanks for reading and commenting and I hope everyone enjoys the Grand Ole Opry this weekend.
Nationally recognized independent Grand Ole Opry historian Byron Fay offers news and comments regarding country music's premier show.
Wednesday, October 30, 2019
Monday, October 28, 2019
Mid-Week Opry Shows
While last weekend was the final weekend in which the Grand Ole Opry will be at the Opry House, there are a couple of mid-week shows that will take place there before the Opry's move to the Ryman Auditorium on Friday night.
Tuesday October 29
7:00: John Conlee; Jimmie Allen
7:30: The Whites; Thompson Square
Intermission
8:15: Rob Ickes & Trey Hensley
8:45: Maggie Rose; Lee Brice
Wednesday October 30
7:00: Jeannie Seely; Exile
7:30: Rhonda Vincent; Charlie Worsham
Intermission
8:15: Henry Cho; Ricky Skaggs; Chris Janson
Opry Country Classics will finish up its fall run of shows on Thursday night at the Ryman Auditorium. Overall, the fall run has produced some very good shows, and attendance has been way up, with several of the shows sold-out.
Thursday October 31
Host: Larry Gatlin
Spotlight Artist: Crystal Gayle
Also Appearing: The Gatlin Brothers, Lucas Hoge, Jim Lauderdale, Riders In The Sky
Tuesday October 29
7:00: John Conlee; Jimmie Allen
7:30: The Whites; Thompson Square
Intermission
8:15: Rob Ickes & Trey Hensley
8:45: Maggie Rose; Lee Brice
Wednesday October 30
7:00: Jeannie Seely; Exile
7:30: Rhonda Vincent; Charlie Worsham
Intermission
8:15: Henry Cho; Ricky Skaggs; Chris Janson
Opry Country Classics will finish up its fall run of shows on Thursday night at the Ryman Auditorium. Overall, the fall run has produced some very good shows, and attendance has been way up, with several of the shows sold-out.
Thursday October 31
Host: Larry Gatlin
Spotlight Artist: Crystal Gayle
Also Appearing: The Gatlin Brothers, Lucas Hoge, Jim Lauderdale, Riders In The Sky
Thursday, October 24, 2019
Grand Ole Opry 10/25 & 10/26
The Grand Ole Opry will celebrate its final weekend for 2019 at the Grand Ole Opry House as next weekend the Opry will begin its three month winter run at the Ryman Auditorium. To close it out, there will be one show on Friday night and two shows Saturday.
There are a trio of Grand Ole Opry members who will be appearing both nights, and that list includes Mike Snider, Riders In The Sky and John Conlee. Joining that trio on the Friday Night Opry will be members The Whites, Bobby Osborne and Crystal Gayle. Crystal will be meeting fans and signing copies of her new CD after the show.
On Saturday night, joining Mike, John and the Riders, will be members Bill Anderson, Jeannie Seely, and the newly married Trace Adkins. Jesse McReynolds, who has been missing for the past month, is scheduled for just the first show. Hopefully he is well enough and strong enough to appear. He is missed on the Opry.
Look at those on the guest list for Friday night, there are a couple of names that stand out. It is nice to see the Malpass Brothers on the schedule. They have been on the Opry a couple of times and have impressed. Also scheduled is Pure Prairie League and Sons of the Pioneers, who at this point you could probably call the Grandsons of the Pioneers. (I know, bad joke). While the members of this group have changed, they are still out there singing those western songs and are a popular attraction, especially in the west. Also scheduled to appear are William Michael Morgan and Emily West. By the way, the Friday Night Opry is sold out.
Saturday night has another of those artists who I think would make a very good Opry member, and that is Suzy Bogguss. I just enjoy her very much. Allison Moorer hasn't been on the Opry in some time, and she is also scheduled, along with the young and popular Hunter Hayes, and making her Opry debut, Madison Kozak.
Friday October 25
7:00: Mike Snider (host); William Michael Morgan; Malpass Brothers
7:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Emily West; Sons of the Pioneers
Intermission
8:15: John Conlee (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Pure Prairie League
8:45: The Whites (host); Crystal Gayle
Saturday October 26
1st show
7:00: John Conlee (host); Allison Moorer; Jesse McReynolds
7:30: Bill Anderson (host); Madison Kozak; Suzy Bogguss
8:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Mike Snider; Hunter Hayes; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Trace Adkins
2nd show
9:30: John Conlee (host); Allison Moorer; Hunter Hayes
10:00: Bill Anderson (host); Mike Snider; Suzy Bogguss
10:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Madison Kozak; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Riders In The Sky (host); Trace Adkins
As mentioned, Saturday night will be the Grand Ole Opry debut for Madison Kozak.
To rising country singer, songwriter, and musician Madison Kozak, it feels fitting that her debut, “First Last Name,” pays tribute to a father-daughter relationship. Not only did the touching ballad kickstart her career by leading to a publishing deal with powerhouse company Big Loud, but it also feels meaningful because it was Madison's dad who taught the Nashville-based artist everything she knows and loves about country music. Growing up the seventh child in a family of eight siblings in rural Ontario, Kozak treasured precious time with her father, who introduced her to the greats — Loretta Lynn (Kozak’s first concert), Patsy Cline, Dolly Parton, Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash — and also taught her to play guitar when he discovered she loved to sing.
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And now, here is the posted Grand Ole Opry line-up from ten years ago, the final weekend in October 2009:
Friday October 23
7:00: Jean Shepard (host); Jimmy C Newman; Ashton Shepherd
7:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Emily West
8:00: Mike Snider (host); Jan Howard; Keith Anderson
8:30: Ricky Skaggs (host); Riders In The Sky; The Whites
Saturday October 24
1st show
7:00: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jimmy C Newman; Mallary Hope
7:30: Mike Snider (host); The Whites; Montgomery Gentry
8:00: Jim Ed Brown (host); Trace Adkins; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Jean Shepard (host); Jack Greene; Oak Ridge Boys
2nd show
9:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Mallary Hope
10:00: Mike Snider (host); The Whites; Montgomery Gentry
10:30: Jean Shepard (host); Trace Adkins; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Jim Ed Brown (host); Jack Greene; Oak Ridge Boys
From 25 years ago, Saturday October 22, 1994:
1st show
6:30: Bill Monroe (host); Connie Smith
6:45: Billy Walker (host); Bill Carlisle
7:00: Jack Greene (host); Hank Locklin; Jan Howard; Mel McDaniel
7:30: Bill Anderson (host); Clinton Gregory; The Four Guys
8:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Ronna Reeves; Del McCoury Band; Opry Square Dance Band; The Melvin Sloan Dancers
8:30: Hank Snow (host); The Whites; Jimmy C Newman; Mike Snider
2nd show
9:30: Porter Wagoner (host); Del McCoury Band; Jan Howard; Brother Oswald
10:00: Bill Monroe (host); Mike Snider
10:15: Jack Greene (host); Hank Locklin
10:30: Bill Anderson (host); Clinton Gregory
10:45: Jimmy C Newman (host); Billy Walker; Opry Square Dance Band; The Melvin Sloan Dancers
11:00: Hank Snow (host); Ronna Reeves; Mel McDaniel
11:30: The Four Guys (host); Charlie Walker; The Whites
Finally, from 50 years ago, Saturday October 25, 1969:
1st show
6:30: Wilburn Brothers (host); Wilma Lee Cooper; Bobby Lewis
6:45: Willis Brothers (host); Del Wood; Wilma Burgess
7:00: Bill Anderson (host); George Morgan; Jan Howard; Billy Grammer
7:30: Roy Acuff (host); Earl Scruggs Revue; Jim and Jesse; Crook Brothers; Charlie Daniels
8:00: Del Reeves (host); Charlie Walker; The Four Guys; Bill Carlisle
8:30: Bill Monroe (host); Lonzo and Oscar; Ray Pillow; Fruit Jar Drinkers
2nd show
9:30: Wilburn Brothers (host); Willis Brothers; Bobby Lewis; Wilma Lee Cooper
10:00: George Morgan (host); The Four Guys; Del Wood
10:15: Del Reeves (host); Jim and Jesse
10:30: Charlie Walker (host); Billy Grammer; Ray Pillow
10:45: Roy Acuff (host); Earl Scruggs Revue; Crook Brothers
11:00: Bill Monroe (host); Bill Carlisle; Wilma Burgess; Fruit Jar Drinkers; Sam McGee
11:30: Marty Robbins (host); Lonzo and Oscar; Don Winters
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To finish it up, it was 16 years ago, Saturday October 25, 2003 that Del McCoury became a member of the Grand Ole Opry:
"My dad always had the Grand Ole Opry radio broadcasts on every Saturday night, and Bill [Monroe] was my favorite on that show." - Del McCoury
When Delano Floyd McCoury was young, his family relocated from North Carolina to just north of the Mason Dixon Line in York County, Pennsylvania. Del's older brother, G.C., introduced the young boy to bluegrass through the music of Flatt & Scruggs. Before long, he had taken up the banjo, and by the early 1960s he was playing bluegrass in the honky tonks of the Baltimore-Washington, D.C., area. In 1963, Del made his first Grand Ole Opry appearances when he was recruited by Bill Monroe to join his Blue Grass Boys. Though he was hired as a banjo player, Bill soon made him into a guitar player and lead singer.
There are a trio of Grand Ole Opry members who will be appearing both nights, and that list includes Mike Snider, Riders In The Sky and John Conlee. Joining that trio on the Friday Night Opry will be members The Whites, Bobby Osborne and Crystal Gayle. Crystal will be meeting fans and signing copies of her new CD after the show.
On Saturday night, joining Mike, John and the Riders, will be members Bill Anderson, Jeannie Seely, and the newly married Trace Adkins. Jesse McReynolds, who has been missing for the past month, is scheduled for just the first show. Hopefully he is well enough and strong enough to appear. He is missed on the Opry.
Look at those on the guest list for Friday night, there are a couple of names that stand out. It is nice to see the Malpass Brothers on the schedule. They have been on the Opry a couple of times and have impressed. Also scheduled is Pure Prairie League and Sons of the Pioneers, who at this point you could probably call the Grandsons of the Pioneers. (I know, bad joke). While the members of this group have changed, they are still out there singing those western songs and are a popular attraction, especially in the west. Also scheduled to appear are William Michael Morgan and Emily West. By the way, the Friday Night Opry is sold out.
Saturday night has another of those artists who I think would make a very good Opry member, and that is Suzy Bogguss. I just enjoy her very much. Allison Moorer hasn't been on the Opry in some time, and she is also scheduled, along with the young and popular Hunter Hayes, and making her Opry debut, Madison Kozak.
Friday October 25
7:00: Mike Snider (host); William Michael Morgan; Malpass Brothers
7:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Emily West; Sons of the Pioneers
Intermission
8:15: John Conlee (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Pure Prairie League
8:45: The Whites (host); Crystal Gayle
Saturday October 26
1st show
7:00: John Conlee (host); Allison Moorer; Jesse McReynolds
7:30: Bill Anderson (host); Madison Kozak; Suzy Bogguss
8:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Mike Snider; Hunter Hayes; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Trace Adkins
2nd show
9:30: John Conlee (host); Allison Moorer; Hunter Hayes
10:00: Bill Anderson (host); Mike Snider; Suzy Bogguss
10:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Madison Kozak; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Riders In The Sky (host); Trace Adkins
As mentioned, Saturday night will be the Grand Ole Opry debut for Madison Kozak.
To rising country singer, songwriter, and musician Madison Kozak, it feels fitting that her debut, “First Last Name,” pays tribute to a father-daughter relationship. Not only did the touching ballad kickstart her career by leading to a publishing deal with powerhouse company Big Loud, but it also feels meaningful because it was Madison's dad who taught the Nashville-based artist everything she knows and loves about country music. Growing up the seventh child in a family of eight siblings in rural Ontario, Kozak treasured precious time with her father, who introduced her to the greats — Loretta Lynn (Kozak’s first concert), Patsy Cline, Dolly Parton, Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash — and also taught her to play guitar when he discovered she loved to sing.
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And now, here is the posted Grand Ole Opry line-up from ten years ago, the final weekend in October 2009:
Friday October 23
7:00: Jean Shepard (host); Jimmy C Newman; Ashton Shepherd
7:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Emily West
8:00: Mike Snider (host); Jan Howard; Keith Anderson
8:30: Ricky Skaggs (host); Riders In The Sky; The Whites
Saturday October 24
1st show
7:00: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jimmy C Newman; Mallary Hope
7:30: Mike Snider (host); The Whites; Montgomery Gentry
8:00: Jim Ed Brown (host); Trace Adkins; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Jean Shepard (host); Jack Greene; Oak Ridge Boys
2nd show
9:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Mallary Hope
10:00: Mike Snider (host); The Whites; Montgomery Gentry
10:30: Jean Shepard (host); Trace Adkins; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Jim Ed Brown (host); Jack Greene; Oak Ridge Boys
From 25 years ago, Saturday October 22, 1994:
1st show
6:30: Bill Monroe (host); Connie Smith
6:45: Billy Walker (host); Bill Carlisle
7:00: Jack Greene (host); Hank Locklin; Jan Howard; Mel McDaniel
7:30: Bill Anderson (host); Clinton Gregory; The Four Guys
8:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Ronna Reeves; Del McCoury Band; Opry Square Dance Band; The Melvin Sloan Dancers
8:30: Hank Snow (host); The Whites; Jimmy C Newman; Mike Snider
2nd show
9:30: Porter Wagoner (host); Del McCoury Band; Jan Howard; Brother Oswald
10:00: Bill Monroe (host); Mike Snider
10:15: Jack Greene (host); Hank Locklin
10:30: Bill Anderson (host); Clinton Gregory
10:45: Jimmy C Newman (host); Billy Walker; Opry Square Dance Band; The Melvin Sloan Dancers
11:00: Hank Snow (host); Ronna Reeves; Mel McDaniel
11:30: The Four Guys (host); Charlie Walker; The Whites
Finally, from 50 years ago, Saturday October 25, 1969:
1st show
6:30: Wilburn Brothers (host); Wilma Lee Cooper; Bobby Lewis
6:45: Willis Brothers (host); Del Wood; Wilma Burgess
7:00: Bill Anderson (host); George Morgan; Jan Howard; Billy Grammer
7:30: Roy Acuff (host); Earl Scruggs Revue; Jim and Jesse; Crook Brothers; Charlie Daniels
8:00: Del Reeves (host); Charlie Walker; The Four Guys; Bill Carlisle
8:30: Bill Monroe (host); Lonzo and Oscar; Ray Pillow; Fruit Jar Drinkers
2nd show
9:30: Wilburn Brothers (host); Willis Brothers; Bobby Lewis; Wilma Lee Cooper
10:00: George Morgan (host); The Four Guys; Del Wood
10:15: Del Reeves (host); Jim and Jesse
10:30: Charlie Walker (host); Billy Grammer; Ray Pillow
10:45: Roy Acuff (host); Earl Scruggs Revue; Crook Brothers
11:00: Bill Monroe (host); Bill Carlisle; Wilma Burgess; Fruit Jar Drinkers; Sam McGee
11:30: Marty Robbins (host); Lonzo and Oscar; Don Winters
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To finish it up, it was 16 years ago, Saturday October 25, 2003 that Del McCoury became a member of the Grand Ole Opry:
"My dad always had the Grand Ole Opry radio broadcasts on every Saturday night, and Bill [Monroe] was my favorite on that show." - Del McCoury
When Delano Floyd McCoury was young, his family relocated from North Carolina to just north of the Mason Dixon Line in York County, Pennsylvania. Del's older brother, G.C., introduced the young boy to bluegrass through the music of Flatt & Scruggs. Before long, he had taken up the banjo, and by the early 1960s he was playing bluegrass in the honky tonks of the Baltimore-Washington, D.C., area. In 1963, Del made his first Grand Ole Opry appearances when he was recruited by Bill Monroe to join his Blue Grass Boys. Though he was hired as a banjo player, Bill soon made him into a guitar player and lead singer.
"The first time I played the Opry," recalls Del, "I wasn't in the union yet, and you had to belong to the local union in Nashville to be able to play. You could sing, but you couldn't play. So, my first night on the Opry with Bill, I sang and I didn't play. After that, Bill got me in the union. It's funny — Bill could do that. I guess he had a lot of pull here in this town."
When Del left the band the following year, he continued as a lead singer — first during a brief stint in California with the Golden State Boys, and then back in Pennsylvania with his own band, the Dixie Pals.
For the next quarter of a century, Del was a part-time musician, working as a logging truck driver to support his growing family while playing at bluegrass festivals on the weekends. Though he couldn't devote himself entirely to music, his reputation as a singer of unsurpassed intensity grew steadily.
Del's son Ronnie began playing with the band on a part-time basis in 1981 at age 14. Six years later, Robbie McCoury made his debut with the band. At the beginning of the '90s, Del and his family moved to Nashville to pursue music full-time as The Del McCoury Band. With Mike Bub (since replaced by Alan Bartram) on bass and Jason Carter on fiddle, the group quickly developed into one of the finest units to ever grace a bluegrass stage, and by the end of the decade they had become the top winner at the International Bluegrass Music Association's annual awards.
Throughout the '90s and into the new millennium, The Del McCoury Band — a nine-time winner of the International Bluegrass Music Association's Entertainer of the Year award — has embodied bluegrass' best qualities. In 2003, the group established its own record label, McCoury Music, and, two years later, won a Best Bluegrass Album Grammy for The Company We Keep.
Today, the Del McCoury Band enjoys the praise of traditional bluegrass lovers and tie-dyed clad "Del-Heads" alike. Their current dates range from performing arts centers to hardcore bluegrass festivals. After years of playing hip, youth-oriented jamfests such as Bonnaroo and High Sierra, Del launched his own in 2008 — the popular four-day DelFest in Cumberland, Maryland. Spreading the bluegrass gospel wherever he goes, Del has proven not to be a relic of bluegrass music's past, but an architect of its future.
Here is the running order from Saturday October 25, 2003, the night Del McCoury became a member of the Grand Ole Opry:
1st show
6:30: Tennessee Pride
Jimmy Dickens (host): Out Behind the Barn
The Whites: Hangin' Around
Osborne Brothers: Rocky Top
Jim Ed Brown: The 3 Bells
Jimmy Dickens: Mountain Dew
7:00: WSM online.com/Standard Candy
Emerson Drive: Dreaming About You/Waiting on Me
George Hamilton IV (host): Truck Drivin' Man
Rodney Atkins: My Old Man/Honesty
Del McCoury Band: The Red Head Girl/Hillcrest Drive
Patty Loveless and Del McCoury; I'm Working on a Building
George Hamilton IV: Abilene/We Will Meet Again
8:00: Martha White
Porter Wagoner (host): Sugarfoot Rag
Jimmy C Newman: Allons ah Lafayette
Jean Shepard: Slippin' Away
Mel McDaniel: Louisiana Saturday Night/Stand Up
Opry Square Dance Band: Snow Flake Reel
Porter Wagoner: Suppertime
8:30: Tootsie's
Mike Snider (host): Shuckin' the Corn
Billy Walker: Funny How Time Slips Away
Connie Smith: Darling, Are You Ever Coming Home
Hal Ketchum: Awaiting Redemption/Stay Forever
Mike Snider: If My Nose was Runnin'
2nd show
9:30: Coca-Cola
Jimmy Dickens (host): Me and My Big Loud Mouth
The Whites: Makin' Believe/Swing Down Chariot
Mel McDaniel: Louisiana Saturday Night/Stand Up
Jimmy Dickens: I'd Rather Sleep in Peace
10:00: Caribbean Cruise
Porter Wagoner (host): Company's Comin'
Jan Howard: The One You Slip Around With
Jeannie Seely: When He Leaves You
Emerson Drive: Falling to Me/Fishing in the Dark
Porter Wagoner: I've Enjoyed as Much of This as I Can Stand
10:30: Dreamworks
Hal Ketchum (host): Without Your Love
Stu Phillips: If Loving You Means Anything
Connie Smith: I'll Come Runnin' to You/You've Got Me Right Where You Want Me
Opry Square Dance Band: Whiskey Before Breakfast
Hal Ketchum: It's a 5 O'Clock World
11:00: Cingular Wireless
Jean Shepard (host): Gone, Gone, Gone
Billy Walker: Word Games
Jimmy C Newman; Diggy Liggy Lo/Cajun Stripper
Del McCoury Band: I'll Dry My Tears/A Cheap Love Affair
Jean Shepard: Together Again
11:30: Merle Haggard CD
Mike Snider (host): Acorn Hill/Crazy Creek
Rodney Atkins: My Old Man/Honesty
Jack Greene: Walking the Floor Over You/Night Life
Mike Snider: Snuff Dipper
There you have it for this week. As always, thanks for reading and commenting. And as always, I hope everyone enjoys the Opry this weekend.
Sunday, October 20, 2019
Mid-Week Opry Shows
Remember when Luke Bryan said he would like to be a member of the Grand Ole Opry? If not, let me refresh it for you:
“I’ve got to put in some good word with them, maybe I can be a member one day."
He then indicated that he may make more of an effort to get that “Opry nod” himself.
“You know, me and my managers sit down and I’m like, ‘I’ve got to get my butt out to the Opry and play more’,” Luke admits, “So, Opry, save me some dates I’m comin’.”
For those keeping count, he made those comments back in September 2018 when Dustin Lynch was inducted as the Opry's newest member. And, for those who are interested, he and his managers must not have been in touch with the Opry about saving him some dates, because since he made that statement, he has not been back to the Opry.
But that all changes this Tuesday night as Luke Bryan is scheduled for both shows that night as the "Opry Goes Pink" for their annual night to honor breast cancer survivors. W=
While there is nothing to indicate that he will be offered Opry membership on Tuesday night, and it would be a surprise and disappointment if he was, I am happy that he is coming back to do the show as it has been several years since he has been on.
Joining Luke on the Tuesday Night Opry will be Opry members Craig Morgan, Travis Tritt, Joe Diffie and the Oak Ridge Boys, Guesting will be Sara Evans and Anita Cochran.
Tuesday October 22
1st show
7:00: Craig Morgan; Travis Tritt
7:30: Anita Cochran; Joe Diffie
8:00: Sara Evans; Oak Ridge Boys
8:30: Luke Bryan
2nd show
9:30: Craig Morgan; Travis Tritt
10:00: Luke Bryan
10:30: Sara Evans; Joe Diffie
11:00: Anita Cochran; Oak Ridge Boys
On Wednesday night, Grand Ole Opry members Little Big Town will be celebrating their 5th anniversary as Opry members. Also appearing will be one of the newest members of the Country Music Hall of Fame as Ray Stevens, fresh off his formal induction on Sunday night, will be appearing.
Wednesday October 23
7:00: Riders In The Sky; Kristian Bush
7:30: Jimmie Allen; Ray Stevens
Intermission
8:15: Darin & Brooke Aldridge; Ashley Ray
8:45: Little Big Town.
Opry Country Classics
Thursday October 24
Host: Larry Gatlin
Also Appearing: The Gatlin Brothers, Charlie McCoy, Waylon Payne, Darin & Brooke Aldridge
“I’ve got to put in some good word with them, maybe I can be a member one day."
He then indicated that he may make more of an effort to get that “Opry nod” himself.
“You know, me and my managers sit down and I’m like, ‘I’ve got to get my butt out to the Opry and play more’,” Luke admits, “So, Opry, save me some dates I’m comin’.”
For those keeping count, he made those comments back in September 2018 when Dustin Lynch was inducted as the Opry's newest member. And, for those who are interested, he and his managers must not have been in touch with the Opry about saving him some dates, because since he made that statement, he has not been back to the Opry.
But that all changes this Tuesday night as Luke Bryan is scheduled for both shows that night as the "Opry Goes Pink" for their annual night to honor breast cancer survivors. W=
While there is nothing to indicate that he will be offered Opry membership on Tuesday night, and it would be a surprise and disappointment if he was, I am happy that he is coming back to do the show as it has been several years since he has been on.
Joining Luke on the Tuesday Night Opry will be Opry members Craig Morgan, Travis Tritt, Joe Diffie and the Oak Ridge Boys, Guesting will be Sara Evans and Anita Cochran.
Tuesday October 22
1st show
7:00: Craig Morgan; Travis Tritt
7:30: Anita Cochran; Joe Diffie
8:00: Sara Evans; Oak Ridge Boys
8:30: Luke Bryan
2nd show
9:30: Craig Morgan; Travis Tritt
10:00: Luke Bryan
10:30: Sara Evans; Joe Diffie
11:00: Anita Cochran; Oak Ridge Boys
On Wednesday night, Grand Ole Opry members Little Big Town will be celebrating their 5th anniversary as Opry members. Also appearing will be one of the newest members of the Country Music Hall of Fame as Ray Stevens, fresh off his formal induction on Sunday night, will be appearing.
Wednesday October 23
7:00: Riders In The Sky; Kristian Bush
7:30: Jimmie Allen; Ray Stevens
Intermission
8:15: Darin & Brooke Aldridge; Ashley Ray
8:45: Little Big Town.
Opry Country Classics
Thursday October 24
Host: Larry Gatlin
Also Appearing: The Gatlin Brothers, Charlie McCoy, Waylon Payne, Darin & Brooke Aldridge
Thursday, October 17, 2019
Grand Ole Opry 10/18 & 10/19
Coming off the Grand Ole Opry's 94th Birthday Bash and Dolly Week, it appears that it will be a pretty quiet weekend at the Grand Ole Opry as things get back to normal. For this weekend, there will be one show on Friday night and two shows on Saturday.
There are several Grand Ole Opry members who will be appearing on all three shows this weekend: Dailey & Vincent, John Conlee and Old Crow Medicine Show, who by the way, will be signing copies of their new album "Love at the Ryman" on both nights.
Joining that group on the Friday Night Opry will be members Mark Wills, Bobby Osborne, Jeannie Seely and Riders In The Sky. Joining the trio for both shows on Saturday will be Hall of Fame members Bill Anderson and Connie Smith, along with Mike Snider and The Whites. Jeannie Seely is set for the first show while Riders in The Sky are scheduled for the late show.
Ingrid Andress will be making her Opry debut on Friday night, while Fred Eaglesmith will be making his debut on Saturday night. Other guest artists on Friday night include Dee White, Sawyer Brown and Bobby Bones. Saturday night the list includes Caylee Hammack and John Crist.
Friday October 18
7:00: Mark Wills (host); Dee White; Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press
7:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Ingrid Andress; Dailey & Vincent
Intermission
8:15: John Conlee (host); Bobby Bones; Sawyer Brown
8:45: Old Crow Medicine Show (host); Riders In The Sky
Saturday October 19
1st show
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Caylee Hammack; Mike Snider
7:30: Bill Anderson (host); Fred Eaglesmith; Dailey & Vincent
8:00: John Conlee (host); The Whites; John Crist; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Connie Smith (host); Old Crow Medicine Show
2nd show
9:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Caylee Hammack; Mike Snider
10:00: Bill Anderson (host); Fred Eaglesmith; Dailey & Vincent
10:30: John Conlee (host); The Whites; John Crist; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Connie Smith (host); Old Crow Medicine Show
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As mentioned Ingrid Andress and Fred Eaglesmith are set to make their Opry debuts this weekend.
“A country pop rookie who can write a chorus like Sia,” (PAPER), Ingrid Andress is chipping away at expectations of herself and her sound with debut single “More Hearts Than Mine.” Praised by HITS magazine for its “honesty and vulnerability virtually absent on Country radio,” the recently named iHeartCountry On The Verge artist performed her “elegantly written song” (NY Times) on NBC’s TODAY a week after it became the most-added new single at country radio.
The Atlantic Records/Warner Music Nashville recording artist made her first national TV appearance earlier this year on Late Night with Seth Meyers performing her major-label debut, “Lady Like,” only two months after its release.
With several co-writer credits to her name, including Charli XCX’s “Boys” and Fletcher’s “About You,” the Colorado-native first honed her skills writing with heavy hitters in the music community such as Sam Hunt and Alicia Keys and has received additional critical acclaim from People, Rolling Stone, Billboard, Vulture, and many more.
With the release of her latest tracks “Both” and “We’re Not Friends,” Andress’ new music continues to prove her as one of the most unique and moving vocalists in the country space and beyond; one that is thrillingly honest, raw, and refreshing in a way rarely seen emanating from Music City.
Fred Eaglesmith can talk to you about almost anything. Chances are, he’s had that car, tractor, job, relationship, idea, and hat. But throughout his life and experiences there is always one thing that has remained the same: his undeniable gift for writing a song. Aspiring songwriters and performers of all ages call and write Fred with questions on how to have a career like his. And what can he say? Start writing songs when you’re 10 years old. Grow up with poverty, agriculture, religion, and eight siblings. Run away from home. Hop freight trains. Start a business. Lose a business. Struggle to get any gig. Drive to Nashville with no money and pockets full of songs. Get a record deal. Lose a record deal. Win a Juno Award. Break down on the side of the road everyday for days on end. Become a cult hero and amass a following of self-proclaimed “Fred Heads.” Tour relentlessly. Become everyone’s favorite. Becomes nobody’s favorite. Follow your gut. Smarten up. Don’t care what anybody thinks. Be fair. Be loyal no matter what. Keep going. Soften up. Give people a break. Expect nothing. Give everything. Keep going. Allow yourself to be happy. Find out who you are and deal with that. Don’t stay in fancy hotels. Write good songs.
After all these years touring the United States, Canada, and Europe, having his songs covered by some of the biggest names in music, and appearing on The Late Show with David Letterman – the enigmatic, countrified, Rock ’n’ Roll troubadour, Fred Eaglesmith, is carrying on with musical wife Tif Ginn.
Eaglesmith is a veteran of the music industry and at the same time is about as far away from actually participating in today’s music industry as one could be. Never operating within anyone’s boundaries, he continues to set the standard for independent artists everywhere.
Tif Ginn is a gutsy, amazing singer and a transcendent songwriter who has spent most of her life touring and playing music. Her impressive, sultry vocals and glorious harmonies with Fred, along with her multiple instrument additions to the show will have you in awe. This girl has it all, including Fred.
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And now, here is the posted Grand Ole Opry line-up from ten years ago, the third weekend in October 2009:
Friday October 16
7:00: John Conlee (host); Riders In The Sky; Whitney Duncan
7:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; T. Graham Brown
8:00: Bill Anderson (host); Jean Shepard; Keith Anderson
8:30: Ricky Skaggs (host); Jeannie Seely; Jim Ed Brown
Saturday October 17
1st show
7:00: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jimmy C Newman; Holly Williams
7:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); Jean Shepard; Sam Bush
8:00: Riders In The Sky (host); Stonewall Jackson; Steel Magnolia; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Bill Anderson (host); Jesse McReynolds; Vince Gill
2nd show
9:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jimmy C Newman; Holly Williams
10:00: Jean Shepard (host); Charlie Louvin; Sam Bush
10:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Jan Howard; Steel Magnolia; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Bill Anderson (host); Jesse McReynolds; Vince Gill
Now from 25 years ago, Saturday October 15, 1994. This was also the weekend of the Grand Ole Opry's 69th Birthday celebration. What was special about this celebration was during the televised portion, the Opry's Hall of Fame members were seated on stage and honored by other members. Among those on stage were Jimmy Dickens, Grandpa Jones, Hank Snow and Bill Monroe.
1st show
6:30: Bill Monroe (host); Stonewall Jackson
6:45: Grandpa Jones (host); Bill Carlisle; Jimmy Dickens
7:00: The Four Guys (host); Wilma Lee Cooper; Brother Oswald; Jeanne Pruett; Opry Square Dance Band
7:30: Porter Wagoner (host); Mike Snider; Jeannie Seely; The Bluegrass Boys
8:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Jack Greene (host); Jean Shepard; Charlie Walker; The Whites
8:30: Hank Snow (host); Jim Ed Brown; Jan Howard; Billy Walker
2nd show
9:30: Porter Wagoner (host); Justin Tubb; Jeanne Pruett; Del Reeves
10:00: Bill Monroe (host); Stonewall Jackson
10:15: Grandpa Jones (host); Jean Shepard
10:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); The Four Guys
10:45: The Whites (host); Jan Howard; Opry Square Dance Band; The Melvin Sloan Dancers
11:00: Hank Snow (host); Jeannie Seely; Charlie Walker; Mike Snider
11:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); Billy Walker; Johnny Russell
Finally, from 50 years ago, Saturday October 18, 1969. This was also the night of the Grand Ole Opry's 44th Birthday celebration:
1st show
6:00: Vietti
Bill Anderson (host): Wild Weekend
Glaser Brothers: Wicked California
Skeeter Davis: Going Down the Road Feeling Bad
George Hamilton IV: Canadian Pacific
The Four Guys: My Special Angel
Justin Tubb: Be Glad
Margie Bowes: Understand Your Gal/Big City
Bill Carlisle: Poke Salad Annie
Bill Anderson: This Land is Your Land
6:30: Mrs. Grissoms
Tex Ritter (host): Growing Up
Jack Greene and Jeannie Seely: Wish I Didn't Have to Miss You
Jack Greene: Statue of a Fool
Bobby Lord: Live Your Life Out Loud
6:45: Rudy's
Porter Wagoner (host): Big Wind
Dolly Parton: My Blue Ridge Mountain Boy
Willis Brothers: Buying Popcorn
Mel Tillis: Ruby, Don't Take You Guns to Town
Porter Wagoner and Dolly Parton: Just Someone I Used to Know
7:00: Luzianne
Roy Acuff (host): Low & Lonely
Earl Scruggs Revue: Foggy Mountain Breakdown
Charlie Louvin: Little Reasons/Will You Visit Me on Sundays/What Are Those Things
Stonewall Jackson: Ship in the Bottle
Jimmy C Newman: Jambalaya
Osborne Brothers: Tennessee Hound Dog/Rocky Top
Roy Acuff: The Great Speckled Bird
7:30: Standard Candy
Ernest Tubb (host): Walkin' the Floor Over You
Grandpa Jones: Old Dan Tucker
Loretta Lynn: To Make a Man
Wilburn Brothers: It Looks Like the Sun's Gonna Shine
Archie Campbell: The Cockfight
Crook Brothers: Eighth of January
Stu Phillips: Little Tin God
Del Wood: Beer Barrel Polka
8:00: Martha White
Lester Flatt (host): Little Maggie
Hank Locklin: Country Hall of Fame
Jim Ed Brown: The Three Bells
Dottie West: Clinging to My Baby's Hands
Billy Walker: You Gave Me a Mountain
George Morgan: Molly Darling
Charlie Walker: Pick Me Up on Your Way Down
Ray Pillow: Proud Mary
Lester Flatt: Folsom Prison Blues
8:30: Stephens
Hank Snow (host): I've Been Everywhere
Roy Drusky: Strangers
Del Reeves: Woman Do Funny Things to Me/Bells of Southern Bell/ Girl on the Billboard/There Wouldn't Be a Lonely Heart in Town
Jean Shepard: Seven Lonely Days
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Dance All Night
Bob Luman: Memphis
Jim and Jesse: My Baby's Gone
Wilma Lee Cooper: The Right to Come What's Left
Hank Snow: I'm Moving On
2nd show
9:30: Kellogg's
Porter Wagoner (host): Big Wind
Dolly Parton: My Blue Ridge Mountain Boy
Johnny Cash: Folsom Prison Blues/A Boy Named Sue
Willis Brothers: Give Me 40 Acres
Jimmy C Newman: Alligator Man
Osborne Brothers: Rocky Top
Skeeter Davis: The End of the World
The Four Guys: Turn Around; Look at Me
Mel Tillis: These Lonely Hands of Mine
Porter Wagoner and Dolly Parton: Just Someone I Used to Know
10:00: Fender
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Earl Scruggs Revue: Girl From the North Country
Margie Bowes: There'll Be No Teardrops Tonight
Diane McCall: Ready Made Home
Bobby Lord: Rainbow Girl
Roy Acuff: The Great Speckled Bird
10:15: Pure
Bill Anderson (host): But You Know I Love You
Grandpa Jones: Are You From Dixie
Jean Shepard: Second Fiddle
Bob Luman: Guitar Man
Bill Carlisle: Elvira
Stu Phillips: Little Tin God
Jeannie C Riley: Harper Valley PTA
Bill Anderson: This Land is Your Land
10:30: Trailblazer
Lester Flatt (host): Rollin' In My Sweet Baby's Arms
Tex Ritter: High Noon
George Morgan: You Gave Me a Mountain
Dottie West: Here Comes My Baby
Del Wood: Down Yonder
Lester Flatt: I'll Be Your Baby Tonight
10:45: Beech-Nut
Ernest Tubb (host): Waltz Across Texas
Loretta Lynn: Your Squaw is on the Warpath
Crook Brothers: Black Mountain Rag
Wilburn Brothers: Hurt Her Once for Me
11:00: Coca-Cola
Hank Snow (host): I Don't Hurt Anymore
Hank Locklin: Please Help Me, I'm Falling
Charlie Walker: Moffitt, Oklahoma
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Alabama Gal
Hank Snow: There's A Fool Such as I
Sam McGee: Steel Guitar Rag
Hank Snow: The Gold Rush is Over/The Wreck of the Old 97/One More Ride
11:30: Lava
Bill Monroe (host): Fireball Mail
Ray Pillow: Working Man Blues
Bill Monroe: Body & Soul
Ray Pillow: Heart Over Mind
Bill Monroe: I haven't Seen Mary in Years/Blue Moon of Kentucky
Now, that is how to have a birthday celebration. Of course, back in those days the Opry's birthday weekend was tied into the annual Disc Jockey Convention and as you can tell by the line-up, pretty much anyone associated with the Opry was on that night. In fact, the only Grand Ole Opry members missing were Ernie Ashworth, Billy Grammer, Lonzo and Oscar, Norma Jean, Marty Robbins, Stringbean, Marion Worth, George Jones and Tammy Wynette.
The 2nd show finished up at 1:00 am., and that was with the closing segment lasting just 20 minutes.
Finally, in what was a very rare occurrence, the Grand Ole Opry was filmed that night and some of the performances were included in the video "The Nashville Sound" which gave viewers a great look at the Grand Ole Opry. If you have not watch that video, I highly recommend it. It is very interesting and includes not only the Opry, but other activities that took place during the DJ Convention that year.
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To finish it up for this week, let's do one more Opry Birthday celebration, this one from 39 years ago, Saturday October 18, 1980, the night of the Opry's 55th anniversary:
1st show
6:00 Vietti
Jim Ed Brown (host): Pop A Top
Lonzo and Oscar: Georgia Pineywoods
Ernie Ashworth: This Old Boy Ain't Gonna Walk Your Line No More
Wilma Lee Cooper: A Daisy A Day
Jim and Jesse: Freight Train
Jim Ed Brown: Bottle; Bottle
6:30: Mrs Grissoms
Charlie Walker (host): Crazy Arms
Connie Smith: He Was There All the Time
Charlie Walker: Don't Squeeze My Sharmon
6:45: Rudy's
Stonewall Jackson (host): Me & You & A Dog Named Boo
Jan Howard: You Don't Know Me
Del Wood: Alabama Jubilee
Stonewall Jackson: Muddy Water
7:00: Shoney's
Porter Wagoner (host): Tennessee Saturday Night
Wilburn Brothers: Because He Lives
Billy Walker: Love Is Slippin' Through Our Finders
Billy Grammer: Kentucky
David Houston: Lord, Don't Give Up on Me
Porter Wagoner: Everything I've Always Wanted
7:30: Standard Candy
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Roy Drusky: Don't It Make You Want to Go Home
Minnie Pearl: Jealous Hearted Me
Crook Brothers and The Tennessee Travelers: Black Mountain Rag
Onie Wheeler: Lucian's Song
8:00: Martha White
Ernest Tubb (host): Thanks A Lot
George Hamilton IV: Corn Bread; Beans & Sweet Potato Pie
Bill Carlisle: Same Ol' Tale That the Crow Told Me
Loretta Lynn: They Don't Make 'Em Like My Daddy Anymore/When the Tingle Becomes a Chill
Vic Willis Trio: Last Cheater's Waltz
8:30: Acme
Hank Snow (host): I'm Moving On
Bill Anderson: From Rock N Roll to the Rock of Ages
Jeanne Pruett: Satin Sheets
The Four Guys: Lovin' Up a Storm
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Saturday Night Hop
Hank Snow and Kelly Foxton: Check
2nd show
9:30: Kellogg's
Ernest Tubb (host): Walkin' the Floor Over You
Loretta Lynn: Coal Miner's Daughter
The Four Guys: Swing Down Chariot
David Houston: My Elusive Dreams
Lonzo and Oscar: The Old Home Place
Ernie Ashworth: This Old Boy Ain't Gonna Walk Your Line No More
Wilma Lee Cooper: Ain't Gonna Work Tomorrow
Jim and Jesse: Paradise
10:00: Little Debbie
Porter Wagoner (host): Ol' Slewfoot
The Browns: The Three Bells
Connie Smith: When God Dips His Love in My Heart
10:15: Union 76
Roy Acuff (host): Once More
Roy Acuff, Minnie Pearl, Mayor Fulton and the Grand Ole Opry Cast: Happy Birthday Grand Ole Opry/God Bless America
Stonewall Jackson: Old Chuck of Coal
10:30: Trailblazer
Billy Walker (host): Charlie's Shoes
Jan Howard: Rollin' In My Sweet Baby's Arms
Wilburn Brothers: God Bless America Again
Billy Walker: Funny How Time Slips Away
10:45: Beech-Nut
George Hamilton IV (host): Corn Bread; Beans & Sweet Potato Pie
Del Wood: Keep on the Firing Line
Crook Brothers: Mississippi Sawyer
George Hamilton IV: Forever Young
11:00: Coca Cola
Hank Snow (host): There's A Fool Such as I
Billy Grammer: Blue Water
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Cacklin Hen
Roy Drusky: I'll Hold You In My Heart
Kirk McGee: Milk 'em In the Morning Blues
Hank Snow and Kelly Foxton: Check
11:30: Bama
Bill Anderson (host): Wild Weekend
Jeanne Pruett: It's Too Late/Back to Back
Vic Willis Trio: Old Flames Can't Hold a Candle to You
Bill Jr., and Sheila Carlisle: White Lightening
Bill Anderson: I Want that Feeling Again/Po' Folks
Po' Folks Band: The Devil Went Down to Georgia
While not as impressive as the Opry's 44th birthday show 11 years earlier, still a very nice Opry birthday with many of the Opry's members appearing.
There you have it for this week. As always, thanks for reading and commenting and I hope everyone enjoys the Opry this weekend.
There are several Grand Ole Opry members who will be appearing on all three shows this weekend: Dailey & Vincent, John Conlee and Old Crow Medicine Show, who by the way, will be signing copies of their new album "Love at the Ryman" on both nights.
Joining that group on the Friday Night Opry will be members Mark Wills, Bobby Osborne, Jeannie Seely and Riders In The Sky. Joining the trio for both shows on Saturday will be Hall of Fame members Bill Anderson and Connie Smith, along with Mike Snider and The Whites. Jeannie Seely is set for the first show while Riders in The Sky are scheduled for the late show.
Ingrid Andress will be making her Opry debut on Friday night, while Fred Eaglesmith will be making his debut on Saturday night. Other guest artists on Friday night include Dee White, Sawyer Brown and Bobby Bones. Saturday night the list includes Caylee Hammack and John Crist.
Friday October 18
7:00: Mark Wills (host); Dee White; Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press
7:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Ingrid Andress; Dailey & Vincent
Intermission
8:15: John Conlee (host); Bobby Bones; Sawyer Brown
8:45: Old Crow Medicine Show (host); Riders In The Sky
Saturday October 19
1st show
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Caylee Hammack; Mike Snider
7:30: Bill Anderson (host); Fred Eaglesmith; Dailey & Vincent
8:00: John Conlee (host); The Whites; John Crist; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Connie Smith (host); Old Crow Medicine Show
2nd show
9:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Caylee Hammack; Mike Snider
10:00: Bill Anderson (host); Fred Eaglesmith; Dailey & Vincent
10:30: John Conlee (host); The Whites; John Crist; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Connie Smith (host); Old Crow Medicine Show
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As mentioned Ingrid Andress and Fred Eaglesmith are set to make their Opry debuts this weekend.
“A country pop rookie who can write a chorus like Sia,” (PAPER), Ingrid Andress is chipping away at expectations of herself and her sound with debut single “More Hearts Than Mine.” Praised by HITS magazine for its “honesty and vulnerability virtually absent on Country radio,” the recently named iHeartCountry On The Verge artist performed her “elegantly written song” (NY Times) on NBC’s TODAY a week after it became the most-added new single at country radio.
The Atlantic Records/Warner Music Nashville recording artist made her first national TV appearance earlier this year on Late Night with Seth Meyers performing her major-label debut, “Lady Like,” only two months after its release.
With several co-writer credits to her name, including Charli XCX’s “Boys” and Fletcher’s “About You,” the Colorado-native first honed her skills writing with heavy hitters in the music community such as Sam Hunt and Alicia Keys and has received additional critical acclaim from People, Rolling Stone, Billboard, Vulture, and many more.
With the release of her latest tracks “Both” and “We’re Not Friends,” Andress’ new music continues to prove her as one of the most unique and moving vocalists in the country space and beyond; one that is thrillingly honest, raw, and refreshing in a way rarely seen emanating from Music City.
Fred Eaglesmith can talk to you about almost anything. Chances are, he’s had that car, tractor, job, relationship, idea, and hat. But throughout his life and experiences there is always one thing that has remained the same: his undeniable gift for writing a song. Aspiring songwriters and performers of all ages call and write Fred with questions on how to have a career like his. And what can he say? Start writing songs when you’re 10 years old. Grow up with poverty, agriculture, religion, and eight siblings. Run away from home. Hop freight trains. Start a business. Lose a business. Struggle to get any gig. Drive to Nashville with no money and pockets full of songs. Get a record deal. Lose a record deal. Win a Juno Award. Break down on the side of the road everyday for days on end. Become a cult hero and amass a following of self-proclaimed “Fred Heads.” Tour relentlessly. Become everyone’s favorite. Becomes nobody’s favorite. Follow your gut. Smarten up. Don’t care what anybody thinks. Be fair. Be loyal no matter what. Keep going. Soften up. Give people a break. Expect nothing. Give everything. Keep going. Allow yourself to be happy. Find out who you are and deal with that. Don’t stay in fancy hotels. Write good songs.
After all these years touring the United States, Canada, and Europe, having his songs covered by some of the biggest names in music, and appearing on The Late Show with David Letterman – the enigmatic, countrified, Rock ’n’ Roll troubadour, Fred Eaglesmith, is carrying on with musical wife Tif Ginn.
Eaglesmith is a veteran of the music industry and at the same time is about as far away from actually participating in today’s music industry as one could be. Never operating within anyone’s boundaries, he continues to set the standard for independent artists everywhere.
Tif Ginn is a gutsy, amazing singer and a transcendent songwriter who has spent most of her life touring and playing music. Her impressive, sultry vocals and glorious harmonies with Fred, along with her multiple instrument additions to the show will have you in awe. This girl has it all, including Fred.
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And now, here is the posted Grand Ole Opry line-up from ten years ago, the third weekend in October 2009:
Friday October 16
7:00: John Conlee (host); Riders In The Sky; Whitney Duncan
7:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; T. Graham Brown
8:00: Bill Anderson (host); Jean Shepard; Keith Anderson
8:30: Ricky Skaggs (host); Jeannie Seely; Jim Ed Brown
Saturday October 17
1st show
7:00: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jimmy C Newman; Holly Williams
7:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); Jean Shepard; Sam Bush
8:00: Riders In The Sky (host); Stonewall Jackson; Steel Magnolia; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Bill Anderson (host); Jesse McReynolds; Vince Gill
2nd show
9:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jimmy C Newman; Holly Williams
10:00: Jean Shepard (host); Charlie Louvin; Sam Bush
10:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Jan Howard; Steel Magnolia; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Bill Anderson (host); Jesse McReynolds; Vince Gill
Now from 25 years ago, Saturday October 15, 1994. This was also the weekend of the Grand Ole Opry's 69th Birthday celebration. What was special about this celebration was during the televised portion, the Opry's Hall of Fame members were seated on stage and honored by other members. Among those on stage were Jimmy Dickens, Grandpa Jones, Hank Snow and Bill Monroe.
1st show
6:30: Bill Monroe (host); Stonewall Jackson
6:45: Grandpa Jones (host); Bill Carlisle; Jimmy Dickens
7:00: The Four Guys (host); Wilma Lee Cooper; Brother Oswald; Jeanne Pruett; Opry Square Dance Band
7:30: Porter Wagoner (host); Mike Snider; Jeannie Seely; The Bluegrass Boys
8:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Jack Greene (host); Jean Shepard; Charlie Walker; The Whites
8:30: Hank Snow (host); Jim Ed Brown; Jan Howard; Billy Walker
2nd show
9:30: Porter Wagoner (host); Justin Tubb; Jeanne Pruett; Del Reeves
10:00: Bill Monroe (host); Stonewall Jackson
10:15: Grandpa Jones (host); Jean Shepard
10:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); The Four Guys
10:45: The Whites (host); Jan Howard; Opry Square Dance Band; The Melvin Sloan Dancers
11:00: Hank Snow (host); Jeannie Seely; Charlie Walker; Mike Snider
11:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); Billy Walker; Johnny Russell
Finally, from 50 years ago, Saturday October 18, 1969. This was also the night of the Grand Ole Opry's 44th Birthday celebration:
1st show
6:00: Vietti
Bill Anderson (host): Wild Weekend
Glaser Brothers: Wicked California
Skeeter Davis: Going Down the Road Feeling Bad
George Hamilton IV: Canadian Pacific
The Four Guys: My Special Angel
Justin Tubb: Be Glad
Margie Bowes: Understand Your Gal/Big City
Bill Carlisle: Poke Salad Annie
Bill Anderson: This Land is Your Land
6:30: Mrs. Grissoms
Tex Ritter (host): Growing Up
Jack Greene and Jeannie Seely: Wish I Didn't Have to Miss You
Jack Greene: Statue of a Fool
Bobby Lord: Live Your Life Out Loud
6:45: Rudy's
Porter Wagoner (host): Big Wind
Dolly Parton: My Blue Ridge Mountain Boy
Willis Brothers: Buying Popcorn
Mel Tillis: Ruby, Don't Take You Guns to Town
Porter Wagoner and Dolly Parton: Just Someone I Used to Know
7:00: Luzianne
Roy Acuff (host): Low & Lonely
Earl Scruggs Revue: Foggy Mountain Breakdown
Charlie Louvin: Little Reasons/Will You Visit Me on Sundays/What Are Those Things
Stonewall Jackson: Ship in the Bottle
Jimmy C Newman: Jambalaya
Osborne Brothers: Tennessee Hound Dog/Rocky Top
Roy Acuff: The Great Speckled Bird
7:30: Standard Candy
Ernest Tubb (host): Walkin' the Floor Over You
Grandpa Jones: Old Dan Tucker
Loretta Lynn: To Make a Man
Wilburn Brothers: It Looks Like the Sun's Gonna Shine
Archie Campbell: The Cockfight
Crook Brothers: Eighth of January
Stu Phillips: Little Tin God
Del Wood: Beer Barrel Polka
8:00: Martha White
Lester Flatt (host): Little Maggie
Hank Locklin: Country Hall of Fame
Jim Ed Brown: The Three Bells
Dottie West: Clinging to My Baby's Hands
Billy Walker: You Gave Me a Mountain
George Morgan: Molly Darling
Charlie Walker: Pick Me Up on Your Way Down
Ray Pillow: Proud Mary
Lester Flatt: Folsom Prison Blues
8:30: Stephens
Hank Snow (host): I've Been Everywhere
Roy Drusky: Strangers
Del Reeves: Woman Do Funny Things to Me/Bells of Southern Bell/ Girl on the Billboard/There Wouldn't Be a Lonely Heart in Town
Jean Shepard: Seven Lonely Days
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Dance All Night
Bob Luman: Memphis
Jim and Jesse: My Baby's Gone
Wilma Lee Cooper: The Right to Come What's Left
Hank Snow: I'm Moving On
2nd show
9:30: Kellogg's
Porter Wagoner (host): Big Wind
Dolly Parton: My Blue Ridge Mountain Boy
Johnny Cash: Folsom Prison Blues/A Boy Named Sue
Willis Brothers: Give Me 40 Acres
Jimmy C Newman: Alligator Man
Osborne Brothers: Rocky Top
Skeeter Davis: The End of the World
The Four Guys: Turn Around; Look at Me
Mel Tillis: These Lonely Hands of Mine
Porter Wagoner and Dolly Parton: Just Someone I Used to Know
10:00: Fender
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Earl Scruggs Revue: Girl From the North Country
Margie Bowes: There'll Be No Teardrops Tonight
Diane McCall: Ready Made Home
Bobby Lord: Rainbow Girl
Roy Acuff: The Great Speckled Bird
10:15: Pure
Bill Anderson (host): But You Know I Love You
Grandpa Jones: Are You From Dixie
Jean Shepard: Second Fiddle
Bob Luman: Guitar Man
Bill Carlisle: Elvira
Stu Phillips: Little Tin God
Jeannie C Riley: Harper Valley PTA
Bill Anderson: This Land is Your Land
10:30: Trailblazer
Lester Flatt (host): Rollin' In My Sweet Baby's Arms
Tex Ritter: High Noon
George Morgan: You Gave Me a Mountain
Dottie West: Here Comes My Baby
Del Wood: Down Yonder
Lester Flatt: I'll Be Your Baby Tonight
10:45: Beech-Nut
Ernest Tubb (host): Waltz Across Texas
Loretta Lynn: Your Squaw is on the Warpath
Crook Brothers: Black Mountain Rag
Wilburn Brothers: Hurt Her Once for Me
11:00: Coca-Cola
Hank Snow (host): I Don't Hurt Anymore
Hank Locklin: Please Help Me, I'm Falling
Charlie Walker: Moffitt, Oklahoma
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Alabama Gal
Hank Snow: There's A Fool Such as I
Sam McGee: Steel Guitar Rag
Hank Snow: The Gold Rush is Over/The Wreck of the Old 97/One More Ride
11:30: Lava
Bill Monroe (host): Fireball Mail
Ray Pillow: Working Man Blues
Bill Monroe: Body & Soul
Ray Pillow: Heart Over Mind
Bill Monroe: I haven't Seen Mary in Years/Blue Moon of Kentucky
Now, that is how to have a birthday celebration. Of course, back in those days the Opry's birthday weekend was tied into the annual Disc Jockey Convention and as you can tell by the line-up, pretty much anyone associated with the Opry was on that night. In fact, the only Grand Ole Opry members missing were Ernie Ashworth, Billy Grammer, Lonzo and Oscar, Norma Jean, Marty Robbins, Stringbean, Marion Worth, George Jones and Tammy Wynette.
The 2nd show finished up at 1:00 am., and that was with the closing segment lasting just 20 minutes.
Finally, in what was a very rare occurrence, the Grand Ole Opry was filmed that night and some of the performances were included in the video "The Nashville Sound" which gave viewers a great look at the Grand Ole Opry. If you have not watch that video, I highly recommend it. It is very interesting and includes not only the Opry, but other activities that took place during the DJ Convention that year.
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To finish it up for this week, let's do one more Opry Birthday celebration, this one from 39 years ago, Saturday October 18, 1980, the night of the Opry's 55th anniversary:
1st show
6:00 Vietti
Jim Ed Brown (host): Pop A Top
Lonzo and Oscar: Georgia Pineywoods
Ernie Ashworth: This Old Boy Ain't Gonna Walk Your Line No More
Wilma Lee Cooper: A Daisy A Day
Jim and Jesse: Freight Train
Jim Ed Brown: Bottle; Bottle
6:30: Mrs Grissoms
Charlie Walker (host): Crazy Arms
Connie Smith: He Was There All the Time
Charlie Walker: Don't Squeeze My Sharmon
6:45: Rudy's
Stonewall Jackson (host): Me & You & A Dog Named Boo
Jan Howard: You Don't Know Me
Del Wood: Alabama Jubilee
Stonewall Jackson: Muddy Water
7:00: Shoney's
Porter Wagoner (host): Tennessee Saturday Night
Wilburn Brothers: Because He Lives
Billy Walker: Love Is Slippin' Through Our Finders
Billy Grammer: Kentucky
David Houston: Lord, Don't Give Up on Me
Porter Wagoner: Everything I've Always Wanted
7:30: Standard Candy
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Roy Drusky: Don't It Make You Want to Go Home
Minnie Pearl: Jealous Hearted Me
Crook Brothers and The Tennessee Travelers: Black Mountain Rag
Onie Wheeler: Lucian's Song
8:00: Martha White
Ernest Tubb (host): Thanks A Lot
George Hamilton IV: Corn Bread; Beans & Sweet Potato Pie
Bill Carlisle: Same Ol' Tale That the Crow Told Me
Loretta Lynn: They Don't Make 'Em Like My Daddy Anymore/When the Tingle Becomes a Chill
Vic Willis Trio: Last Cheater's Waltz
8:30: Acme
Hank Snow (host): I'm Moving On
Bill Anderson: From Rock N Roll to the Rock of Ages
Jeanne Pruett: Satin Sheets
The Four Guys: Lovin' Up a Storm
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Saturday Night Hop
Hank Snow and Kelly Foxton: Check
2nd show
9:30: Kellogg's
Ernest Tubb (host): Walkin' the Floor Over You
Loretta Lynn: Coal Miner's Daughter
The Four Guys: Swing Down Chariot
David Houston: My Elusive Dreams
Lonzo and Oscar: The Old Home Place
Ernie Ashworth: This Old Boy Ain't Gonna Walk Your Line No More
Wilma Lee Cooper: Ain't Gonna Work Tomorrow
Jim and Jesse: Paradise
10:00: Little Debbie
Porter Wagoner (host): Ol' Slewfoot
The Browns: The Three Bells
Connie Smith: When God Dips His Love in My Heart
10:15: Union 76
Roy Acuff (host): Once More
Roy Acuff, Minnie Pearl, Mayor Fulton and the Grand Ole Opry Cast: Happy Birthday Grand Ole Opry/God Bless America
Stonewall Jackson: Old Chuck of Coal
10:30: Trailblazer
Billy Walker (host): Charlie's Shoes
Jan Howard: Rollin' In My Sweet Baby's Arms
Wilburn Brothers: God Bless America Again
Billy Walker: Funny How Time Slips Away
10:45: Beech-Nut
George Hamilton IV (host): Corn Bread; Beans & Sweet Potato Pie
Del Wood: Keep on the Firing Line
Crook Brothers: Mississippi Sawyer
George Hamilton IV: Forever Young
11:00: Coca Cola
Hank Snow (host): There's A Fool Such as I
Billy Grammer: Blue Water
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Cacklin Hen
Roy Drusky: I'll Hold You In My Heart
Kirk McGee: Milk 'em In the Morning Blues
Hank Snow and Kelly Foxton: Check
11:30: Bama
Bill Anderson (host): Wild Weekend
Jeanne Pruett: It's Too Late/Back to Back
Vic Willis Trio: Old Flames Can't Hold a Candle to You
Bill Jr., and Sheila Carlisle: White Lightening
Bill Anderson: I Want that Feeling Again/Po' Folks
Po' Folks Band: The Devil Went Down to Georgia
While not as impressive as the Opry's 44th birthday show 11 years earlier, still a very nice Opry birthday with many of the Opry's members appearing.
There you have it for this week. As always, thanks for reading and commenting and I hope everyone enjoys the Opry this weekend.
Monday, October 14, 2019
Mid-Week Opry Shows
Coming off the huge "Dolly Week" things will be getting back to normal at the Grand Ole Opry, beginning with this week's Tuesday Night Opry.
Tuesday October 15
7:00: The Whites; Del McCoury Band
7:30: John Conlee; Henry Cho
Intermission
8:15: Ricky Skaggs; King Calaway
8:45: Charlie Daniels Band
Wednesday October 16
7:00: Riders In The Sky; Tyler Rich
7:30: The Whites; Dailey & Vincent
Intermission
8:15: Wendy Moten; Karen Mills
8:45: Jason Crabb; Ricky Skaggs
Opry Country Classics Thursday October 17
Host: Larry Gatlin
Spotlight Artist: Tracy Lawrence
Also Appearing: The Gatlin Brothers, Mickey Guyton, Austin Jenckes, Mike Snider
All of the shows have very good line-ups. Nice to see five Opry members on the Tuesday night show and four on Wednesday night.
Tuesday October 15
7:00: The Whites; Del McCoury Band
7:30: John Conlee; Henry Cho
Intermission
8:15: Ricky Skaggs; King Calaway
8:45: Charlie Daniels Band
Wednesday October 16
7:00: Riders In The Sky; Tyler Rich
7:30: The Whites; Dailey & Vincent
Intermission
8:15: Wendy Moten; Karen Mills
8:45: Jason Crabb; Ricky Skaggs
Opry Country Classics Thursday October 17
Host: Larry Gatlin
Spotlight Artist: Tracy Lawrence
Also Appearing: The Gatlin Brothers, Mickey Guyton, Austin Jenckes, Mike Snider
All of the shows have very good line-ups. Nice to see five Opry members on the Tuesday night show and four on Wednesday night.
Sunday, October 13, 2019
October Opry Highlights
October has traditionally been one of the more active months in the history of the Grand Ole Opry. It is the month in which the Opry traditionally celebrates its anniversary with the Opry's birthday weekend, usually held the 1st weekend of the month. Lots of important and historical events have taken place during October involving the Opry or its members, and here are a few of them:
October 7, 1870: One of the early stars of the Grand Ole Opry, Uncle Dave Macon was born. Uncle Dave usually appeared on the Opry with his son Doris and was known as "The Dixie Dewdrop." After coming to the WSM Barn Dance, Uncle Dave would remain with the Opry until his death in 1952. He was also one of the early inductees into the Country Music Hall of Fame.
October 25, 1912: Sarah Ophelia Colley was born. Known to the world as Minnie Pearl, she first appeared on the Grand Ole Opry in November 1940 and was an Opry member for over 50 years. Comedy has become a lost art at the Opry, but during her time Minnie was one of the best. Minnie passed away in March 1996 from complications of an earlier stroke.
October 20, 1913: Louis Marshall Jones was born in Henderson County, Kentucky. Like Minnie Pearl, Louis was an Opry member for over 50 years, and was known for his humor along with his banjo playing. He was also nationally known for his work on Hee Haw. A member of the Country Music Hall of Fame, you might know him better by his stage name: Grandpa Jones.
October 5, 1925: WSM radio went on the air. Edwin Craig was given the honor of starting off that first broadcast, and he did it with a few simple words: "This is WSM. We Shield Millions. The National Life and Accident Company." National Life President C.A Craig dedicated the station to public service. Among the guests that night was George D. Hay, who would later be hired as the program director at WSM, after which he started the WSM Barn Dance.
October 11, 1932: Dottie West was born in Smithville, Tennessee. Dottie joined the Grand Ole Opry in 1964 and would remain an Opry member until her tragic death in 1991. I find it hard to believe that if Dottie was still alive that she would be 87 years old. Time certainly does fly.
October 27, 1934: The Grand Ole Opry moved from Studio C at the National Life Building, home of WSM, to the Hillsboro Theater. The move was made because of the large number of people who were coming down to the National Life building to watch the show. The Hillsboro Theater was an upgrade for the Opry, as it sat 2,400 and also had dressing rooms for the performers. Because the Opry was now being performed before a live audience, the artists were told to dress for their performances, meaning rural clothes that would reflect the proper image for a country show. That night also was the beginning of Vito Pellettiere as the Opry's stage manager. Vito would hold that position until 1977 and he was responsible for bringing order and organization to the show, including breaking the show into segments with sponsors, and establishing a schedule, with specific times for each act to appear.
October 9, 1937: Roy Acuff made his debut on the Grand Ole Opry. He was invited to appear on the program in what was basically an audition. While his initial performance was nothing to write home about, he was invited back and would join the Opry cast the following year.
October 14, 1939: The NBC Radio Network began to carry a half hour segment of the Opry, sponsored by the R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company to promote its Prince Albert brand. Roy Acuff was the featured star, with David Stone as the announcer and George D. Hay as the Master of Ceremonies. On that first night, Roy and his group were introduced and played the theme song, "Have A Big Time Tonight." Along with George D. Hay, that first show included Uncle Dave Macon, George Wilkerson and his Fruit Jar Drinkers, DeFord Bailey, Brother Oswald, and the rest of Roy's group. Over time, the Prince Albert segment would become the Opry's most famous segment. Beginning initially on 26 network stations, primarily in the south, the segment would soon expand nationwide across the entire NBC Radio Network.
October 28, 1939: Bill Monroe became a member of the Grand Ole Opry, performing "Muleskinner Blues." Opry founder George D. Hay was so impressed with Bill and his new bluegrass sound that he told Bill that if he ever wanted to leave the Opry, he would have to fire himself. Thankfully, that never happened and Bill would remain an Opry member for over 50 years, until his death in September 1996.
October 17, 1953: Carl Butler made his debut on the Grand Ole Opry. Later, along with his wife Pearl, the Butlers would be Opry members.
October 2, 1954: Elvis Presley made his first and only appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. He sang Bill Monroe's "Blue Moon of Kentucky." Reports had said that Elvis received only modest applause from the Opry audience, which was not that unusual. Legend has it that when he was finished and walking off the stage, Opry manager Jim Denny told Elvis that he should go back to driving a truck. While Elvis's truck driving days were over, he never came back to the Opry. Over the years, there has been some doubt if Jim Denny actually made those comments to Elvis. Either way, Elvis never was invited back. One person who was impressed that night was Bill Monroe, especially after seeing the size of the royalty checks he began to receive after Elvis recorded Bill's song.
October 22, 1955: Jim Reeves became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Over time, Jim would become one of the Opry's biggest stars, but like so many others, he came to realize the limitations of being an Opry member and would move on. His last Opry appearance was in June 1963.
October 29, 1955: For what would be a very short run, Slim Whitman became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. He came and went pretty quickly.
October 19, 1956: Stonewall Jackson was given an audition at the Opry. He passed with flying colors and was invited back to perform on the show, eventually becoming a member on November 3, 1956. Stonewall came to town in his pick-up truck, without a hit record, and stuck it big.
October 8, 1960: Buck Owens made his first appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. While never becoming an Opry member, and being based in California, Buck would continue to make occasional Opry appearances throughout his life.
October 15, 1960; While a few different dates have been given over the years, it would appear that Loretta Lynn made her first Opry guest appearance on this date. The Wilburn Brothers were instrumental in getting her that guest spot and she appeared that night on a segment hosted by Ernest Tubb. At the time, Loretta did not have a band so Leslie Wilburn played base and Lester Wilburn played rhythm guitar. Just like in the move, she sang "I'm A Honky-Tonk Girl." The Opry was impressed, and after numerous guest appearances promoted by the Wilburns, Loretta was asked to become an Opry member, which took place in 1962.
October 20, 1962: Leroy Van Dyke became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Like many others, Leroy would only remain with the Opry for a couple of years before being suspended from the show for failing to meet the required number of annual appearances. However, after he left, Leroy would occasionally come back for guest appearances, including one this past year.
October 27, 1962: One week after Leroy became an Opry member, Sonny James joined the Opry's cast. Like Leroy, Sonny would leave a few years later as he developed a more sophisticated country sound.
October 17, 1964: Willie Nelson made his debut on the Grand Ole Opry. Willie would join the cast later on but like others of that time period, found that the Opry was really not for him and moved on, in Willie's case, back to Texas.
October 23, 1965: Roy Acuff, Jr. made his first guest appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. With his father closely watching, Roy Jr. sang "Baby Just Said Goodbye." His recording and performing work showed the promise of a career in country music, however he preferred to work behind the scenes and his public performing soon ended.
October 14, 1966: Del Reeves became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Introduced by Opry member Porter Wagoner, it was a very emotional night for Del as his parents were in the audience to witness the event. Del was so overcome with emotion that he was unable to make it though his song, breaking down in tears. Del was a popular member of the Opry's cast, and would remain so until his death in January 2007.
October 7, 1967: Dolly Parton made her first appearance on the Grand Ole Opry while appearing with Porter Wagoner. Dolly and Porter did not do a duet that night, that would happen a month later. Dolly sang "Dumb Blonde" that night. It was Dolly's first Opry appearance since her debut on the Opry in 1959.
October 21, 1967: The Browns: Jim Ed, Maxine and Bonnie, gave their final performance as members of the Grand Ole Opry. While Bonnie and Maxine would retire to raise families, Jim Ed continued on as a solo member of the Opry's cast, until his death in 2015. Even though they retired, the sisters would come back many times to appear with Jim Ed at the Opry, and other venues. The Browns had a big impact on country music, and a string of hits. In 2015, the year Jim Ed passed away, Jim Ed Brown and The Browns were elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame.
October 6, 1968: Former WSM executive Harry Stone passed away at the age of 70. The influence that Harry Stone had on WSM and the Grand Ole Opry was great, perhaps even more so than the Opry's founder George D. Hay. While the founder wanted to keep the Opry simple and down to earth, featuring local and regional musicians, Harry saw the value on the Opry to WSM and National Life. He began to add professional musicians and singers to the Opry cast, including Pee Wee King, Roy Acuff and Eddy Arnold. There was a lot of conflict between George D. Hay and Harry Stone, and in 1932 it reached its high point as Harry became the general manager at WSM, putting him ahead of Hay in the pecking order at the station. Many should thank Harry for his leadership at the Opry, as many of the decisions he made allowed the show to survive while other barn dance shows failed.
October 19, 1968: In an interview published in the Nashville Tennessean, WSM President Irving Waugh said that the Opry's days at the Ryman Auditorium were numbered. The article stated, "The initiation of plans for the relocation of the Opry, possibly as the center of a multi-million dollar hotel and amusement complex, was announced at a breakfast at Municipal Auditorium sponsored by WSM." Irving Waugh said, "Our feeling is that the Grand Ole Opry needs a new, modern facility. It is estimated the center, which would be called Opryland USA, would require between one hundred fifty and two hundred acres of land. The location would not be in the Music Row area." Over time, details would be announced and the Opry would leave downtown and the Ryman for a rural location that became Opryland USA.
October 16, 1971: Freddie Hart made his debut on the Grand Ole Opry. This was also the night of the Opry's 46th birthday celebration.
October 27, 1973: Comedian and story teller Jerry Clower became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. He was the last member to join the Opry while the show was still located at the Ryman Auditorium. When Jerry joined the cast, comedy was still a big part of the show, as Jerry joined fellow comedians Minnie Pearl, Archie Campbell, Grandpa Jones and Lonzo & Oscar as active Opry members.
October 18, 1975: The Grand Ole Opry celebrated its 50th anniversary with a star studded weekend at the Grand Ole Opry House. Looking back, the 50th is considered one of the biggest shows in the history of the Opry.
October 9, 1982: George Strait made his Grand Ole Opry debut. There are many who believe that George never appeared on the Opry, but he did. Over the years there have been rumors and stories regarding George and the Opry's management, especially in regards to the lack of future appearances or Opry membership. However, with George based in Texas and really having no Nashville connections, there was no reason to believe that George would ever become an Opry member.
October 16, 1982: Grand Ole Opry member Doyle Wilburn passed away in Nashville at the age of 52. The Wilburn Brothers, Teddy and Doyle, first appeared on the Opry with the rest of their siblings in the 1940s, however child labor laws sent them away from Nashville and the Opry. They came back, and in 1953 became Opry members. After Doyle's death, Teddy continued on as a solo member of the cast.
October 17, 1982: Alcyone Bate Beasley died. While the name might not mean a lot to some people, Alcyone was there when it all started in 1925 as a member of Dr. Humphrey Bate's Possum Hunters. Dr. Bate was Alcyone's father. After he died, Alcyone worked to keep the Possum Hunters going, but years later,when the square dance bands were merged, the Possum Hunters name disappeared from the Opry's programs. Even in her final years, Alcyone would always appear on the Opry's annual reunion shows.
October 19, 1982: Alabama traveled up to Nashville and made their first appearance on the Opry. While it was their first appearance, it would not be their last.
October 24, 1983: Grand Ole Opry member, and one of the originals, Kirk McGee passed away. Along with his brother Sam, Kirk made his first Opry appearance in 1926, back when the show was called the WSM Barn Dance. Over the years, he would be a part of the Dixieliners and the Fruit Jar Drinkers, in addition to performing with his brother. His last Opry show had been the previous Saturday night.October 19, 1985: Lonzo & Oscar made their final appearance as members of the Grand Ole Opry. Rollin Sullivan, who was Oscar, originally came to the Opry in 1942. Over the years there were three different Lonzos, starting with Ken Marvin, followed by Rollin's brother Johnny, and finally David Hooten.
October 3, 1989: Grand Ole Opry member Del Wood passed away in Nashville after suffering a stroke several weeks later. Del, whose real name was Adelaide Hazelwood, came to the Opry in 1953 and was famous for her ragtime piano playing and her No. 1 hit 'Down Yonder." Much like others, with Del's passing the ragtime piano playing has disappeared from the Opry stage.
October 14, 1989: Holly Dunn became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Holly would remain an Opry member until she left the music business and moved to New Mexico to concentrate on her art work. Holly, who was not happy with her firing from the Opry, passed away from cancer in November 2016. And yes, she was fired.
October 28, 1989: Bill Monroe, the Father of Bluegrass Music, celebrated 50 years as a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Among those appearing on the televised portion that night to honor Bill, which was hosted by Grant Turner, were Emmylou Harris and Larry Cordle.
October 9, 1990: Garth Brooks became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. This will be Garth's 29th year as an Opry member, an honor that he considers one of the most important in his professional career. While Garth's Opry appearances have been few over the past several decades, he always brings excitement each time he appears on the Opry stage.
October 4, 1991: Diamond Rio made their first guest appearance on the Opry. 7 years later, in 1998, they would become Opry members.
October 19, 1991: Legendary Grand Ole Opry announcer Grant Turner passed away, just hours after announcing the Friday Night Opry. Grant was the dean of Opry announcers and started at WSM on D-Day in 1944. Over the years, he also hosted the Ernest Tubb Midnight Jamboree and the Opry's warm-up show. Grant is also a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame.
October 24, 1991: Gaylord Entertainment Company, owners of WSM and the Grand Ole Opry, listed its stock on the New York Stock Exchange for the first time. Many have said that this is the event that started the downfall of the Opry as the company went public after years of private ownership, and the focus changed. From that point forward, decisions were made based on the effect on the bottom line of the company.
October 23, 1992: Roy Acuff made his final Grand Ole Opry appearance. It was a Friday night show and Roy, in declining health, hosted his segment while sitting in a director's chair. He was scheduled for the following Saturday night, however he took a nap that afternoon and his family decided not to wake him. Days later he entered the hospital for what would be the final time.
October 14, 1996: Bob Whittaker, Vice President and General Manager of the Grand Ole Opry was named President of the Grand Ole Opry Group of Gaylord Entertainment Company. He replaced Hal Durham, who was retiring.
October 15, 2000: The Grand Ole Opry celebrated its 75th birthday with four shows that weekend, including two on Saturday night that featured a majority of the Opry's members including Garth Brooks, Dolly Parton, Vince Gill and Alison Krauss. On a personal note, we attended the shows that weekend and they were probably the best, and had the strongest line-ups of any Opry show that I have attended.
October 17, 2002: Grand Ole Opry member Brother Oswald passed away. Beecher Ray Kirby first came to the Opry with Roy Acuff on January 1, 1939. After Roy's death in 1992, Brother Oswald was asked to become an Opry member, a well deserved honor in recognition of over 50 years already appearing on the Opry. Usually during his segment Oswald would perform his dobro with Charlie Collins on guitar.
October 4, 2003: The Grand Ole Opry is televised on Great American Country (GAC) for the first time, moving over after spending several years on Country Music Television (CMT).
October 25, 2003: Del McCoury became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. This will be Del's 16th year as an Opry member. Del, who usually appears on the weeknight shows, was formally inducted by Patty Loveless.
October 1, 2005: Dierks Bentley became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. For Dierks, this will be year number 14 of Opry membership. Dierks, who is a former employee of The Nashville Network, made his Opry debut in April 2003. On the night of his induction, it was Porter Wagoner doing the honors.
October 15, 2005: The Grand Ole Opry celebrated its 80th birthday. Garth Brooks marked the occasion by coming out of retirement and joining Jimmy Dickens, Porter Wagoner and Bill Anderson on stage. For Garth, it was his first Opry appearance in five years. Also on board that night was Garth's friend Steve Wariner.
October 9, 2007: Grand Ole Opry member Porter Wagoner made his final appearance during that night's Tuesday Night Opry. Porter was in declining health and would pass away several months later.
October 27, 2007: Josh Turner became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. This will be Josh's 12th year as a member of the Opry's cast. Josh had made numerous guest appearances on the Opry, performing his hit "Long Black Train." It was during one of those appearances that Roy Clark surprised Josh with an invitation to join the cast.
October 28, 2007: Grand Ole Opry legend Porter Wagoner passed away in Nashville at the age of 80. One of the most popular members in the history of the Opry, Porter had just celebrated his 50th anniversary as a member of the Opry several months before. Not only was he a great solo artist, but he made some great duets with Dolly Parton. Porter died as a result of lung cancer.
October 10, 2008: Longtime Grand Ole Opry member Ernie Ashworth made his final appearance on that evenings Friday Night Opry. Ernie, who passed away in March 2009, was an Opry member for over 40 years, joining the cast in March 1964.
October 11, 2008: Marshall Barnes passed away. To some of the more recent readers, the name may not mean much, but Marshall was a part of the Opry for many years, first with Cowboy Copas, and later with Grandpa Jones, Roy Acuff and Bill Carlisle. Marshall was a great bass singer who also played the fiddle and guitar.
October 25, 2008: Craig Morgan became a member of the cast of the Grand Ole Opry. Inducted by John Conlee, Craig will be celebrating 11 years as a member.
October 22, 2010: Blake Shelton became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. This will be Blake's 9th year as an Opry member.
October 8, 2011: During the Opry's 86th birthday celebration, Rascal Flatts were inducted as the newest members of the Grand Ole Opry. Among those on hand that night to welcome the group to the cast was Opry member Vince Gill.
October 16, 2012: Darius Rucker became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. He was surprised during a guest appearance by an audience member, who happened to be Brad Paisley, to come and join the cast. This will be his 7th year as an Opry member.
October 23, 2012: On what would have been the 100th birthday of Minnie Pearl, the Grand Ole Opry honored her memory with a special tribute show. Among those appearing that night were Vince Gill, Amy Grant, Pam Tillis and her dad, Mel.
October 3, 2014: During a guest appearance on the Friday Night Opry, Little Big Town was surprised when Reba McEntire walked out on stage during their performance to ask the group if they wished to become the newest members of the Grand Ole Opry. Of course, they said yes, and on October 17th, they were formally inducted.
October 17, 2015: Country music Hall of Fame member Merle Haggard made a surprise appearance on that night's Grand Ole Opry. Introduced by Connie Smith, it would be Merle's final appearance on the Opry.
October 29, 2016: Luke Combs made his debut on the Grand Ole Opry. Earlier this year, he became a member of the Opry's cast.
October 17, 2017: Chris Young became the newest member of the Grand Ole Opry. This will be Chris' 2nd year as an Opry member.
October 12, 2019: Dolly Parton will be honored upon her 50th anniversary as a member of the Grand Ole Opry. While the actual induction date was in January, it took until the October date for everything to be planed out. Dolly made her Opry debut in 1959, and then returned in 1967 as a part of Porter Wagoner's outfit.
Wow. There you have the highlights for this month.
October 7, 1870: One of the early stars of the Grand Ole Opry, Uncle Dave Macon was born. Uncle Dave usually appeared on the Opry with his son Doris and was known as "The Dixie Dewdrop." After coming to the WSM Barn Dance, Uncle Dave would remain with the Opry until his death in 1952. He was also one of the early inductees into the Country Music Hall of Fame.
October 25, 1912: Sarah Ophelia Colley was born. Known to the world as Minnie Pearl, she first appeared on the Grand Ole Opry in November 1940 and was an Opry member for over 50 years. Comedy has become a lost art at the Opry, but during her time Minnie was one of the best. Minnie passed away in March 1996 from complications of an earlier stroke.
October 20, 1913: Louis Marshall Jones was born in Henderson County, Kentucky. Like Minnie Pearl, Louis was an Opry member for over 50 years, and was known for his humor along with his banjo playing. He was also nationally known for his work on Hee Haw. A member of the Country Music Hall of Fame, you might know him better by his stage name: Grandpa Jones.
October 5, 1925: WSM radio went on the air. Edwin Craig was given the honor of starting off that first broadcast, and he did it with a few simple words: "This is WSM. We Shield Millions. The National Life and Accident Company." National Life President C.A Craig dedicated the station to public service. Among the guests that night was George D. Hay, who would later be hired as the program director at WSM, after which he started the WSM Barn Dance.
October 11, 1932: Dottie West was born in Smithville, Tennessee. Dottie joined the Grand Ole Opry in 1964 and would remain an Opry member until her tragic death in 1991. I find it hard to believe that if Dottie was still alive that she would be 87 years old. Time certainly does fly.
October 27, 1934: The Grand Ole Opry moved from Studio C at the National Life Building, home of WSM, to the Hillsboro Theater. The move was made because of the large number of people who were coming down to the National Life building to watch the show. The Hillsboro Theater was an upgrade for the Opry, as it sat 2,400 and also had dressing rooms for the performers. Because the Opry was now being performed before a live audience, the artists were told to dress for their performances, meaning rural clothes that would reflect the proper image for a country show. That night also was the beginning of Vito Pellettiere as the Opry's stage manager. Vito would hold that position until 1977 and he was responsible for bringing order and organization to the show, including breaking the show into segments with sponsors, and establishing a schedule, with specific times for each act to appear.
October 9, 1937: Roy Acuff made his debut on the Grand Ole Opry. He was invited to appear on the program in what was basically an audition. While his initial performance was nothing to write home about, he was invited back and would join the Opry cast the following year.
October 14, 1939: The NBC Radio Network began to carry a half hour segment of the Opry, sponsored by the R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company to promote its Prince Albert brand. Roy Acuff was the featured star, with David Stone as the announcer and George D. Hay as the Master of Ceremonies. On that first night, Roy and his group were introduced and played the theme song, "Have A Big Time Tonight." Along with George D. Hay, that first show included Uncle Dave Macon, George Wilkerson and his Fruit Jar Drinkers, DeFord Bailey, Brother Oswald, and the rest of Roy's group. Over time, the Prince Albert segment would become the Opry's most famous segment. Beginning initially on 26 network stations, primarily in the south, the segment would soon expand nationwide across the entire NBC Radio Network.
October 28, 1939: Bill Monroe became a member of the Grand Ole Opry, performing "Muleskinner Blues." Opry founder George D. Hay was so impressed with Bill and his new bluegrass sound that he told Bill that if he ever wanted to leave the Opry, he would have to fire himself. Thankfully, that never happened and Bill would remain an Opry member for over 50 years, until his death in September 1996.
October 17, 1953: Carl Butler made his debut on the Grand Ole Opry. Later, along with his wife Pearl, the Butlers would be Opry members.
October 2, 1954: Elvis Presley made his first and only appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. He sang Bill Monroe's "Blue Moon of Kentucky." Reports had said that Elvis received only modest applause from the Opry audience, which was not that unusual. Legend has it that when he was finished and walking off the stage, Opry manager Jim Denny told Elvis that he should go back to driving a truck. While Elvis's truck driving days were over, he never came back to the Opry. Over the years, there has been some doubt if Jim Denny actually made those comments to Elvis. Either way, Elvis never was invited back. One person who was impressed that night was Bill Monroe, especially after seeing the size of the royalty checks he began to receive after Elvis recorded Bill's song.
October 22, 1955: Jim Reeves became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Over time, Jim would become one of the Opry's biggest stars, but like so many others, he came to realize the limitations of being an Opry member and would move on. His last Opry appearance was in June 1963.
October 29, 1955: For what would be a very short run, Slim Whitman became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. He came and went pretty quickly.
October 19, 1956: Stonewall Jackson was given an audition at the Opry. He passed with flying colors and was invited back to perform on the show, eventually becoming a member on November 3, 1956. Stonewall came to town in his pick-up truck, without a hit record, and stuck it big.
October 8, 1960: Buck Owens made his first appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. While never becoming an Opry member, and being based in California, Buck would continue to make occasional Opry appearances throughout his life.
October 15, 1960; While a few different dates have been given over the years, it would appear that Loretta Lynn made her first Opry guest appearance on this date. The Wilburn Brothers were instrumental in getting her that guest spot and she appeared that night on a segment hosted by Ernest Tubb. At the time, Loretta did not have a band so Leslie Wilburn played base and Lester Wilburn played rhythm guitar. Just like in the move, she sang "I'm A Honky-Tonk Girl." The Opry was impressed, and after numerous guest appearances promoted by the Wilburns, Loretta was asked to become an Opry member, which took place in 1962.
October 20, 1962: Leroy Van Dyke became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Like many others, Leroy would only remain with the Opry for a couple of years before being suspended from the show for failing to meet the required number of annual appearances. However, after he left, Leroy would occasionally come back for guest appearances, including one this past year.
October 27, 1962: One week after Leroy became an Opry member, Sonny James joined the Opry's cast. Like Leroy, Sonny would leave a few years later as he developed a more sophisticated country sound.
October 17, 1964: Willie Nelson made his debut on the Grand Ole Opry. Willie would join the cast later on but like others of that time period, found that the Opry was really not for him and moved on, in Willie's case, back to Texas.
October 23, 1965: Roy Acuff, Jr. made his first guest appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. With his father closely watching, Roy Jr. sang "Baby Just Said Goodbye." His recording and performing work showed the promise of a career in country music, however he preferred to work behind the scenes and his public performing soon ended.
October 14, 1966: Del Reeves became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Introduced by Opry member Porter Wagoner, it was a very emotional night for Del as his parents were in the audience to witness the event. Del was so overcome with emotion that he was unable to make it though his song, breaking down in tears. Del was a popular member of the Opry's cast, and would remain so until his death in January 2007.
October 7, 1967: Dolly Parton made her first appearance on the Grand Ole Opry while appearing with Porter Wagoner. Dolly and Porter did not do a duet that night, that would happen a month later. Dolly sang "Dumb Blonde" that night. It was Dolly's first Opry appearance since her debut on the Opry in 1959.
October 21, 1967: The Browns: Jim Ed, Maxine and Bonnie, gave their final performance as members of the Grand Ole Opry. While Bonnie and Maxine would retire to raise families, Jim Ed continued on as a solo member of the Opry's cast, until his death in 2015. Even though they retired, the sisters would come back many times to appear with Jim Ed at the Opry, and other venues. The Browns had a big impact on country music, and a string of hits. In 2015, the year Jim Ed passed away, Jim Ed Brown and The Browns were elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame.
October 6, 1968: Former WSM executive Harry Stone passed away at the age of 70. The influence that Harry Stone had on WSM and the Grand Ole Opry was great, perhaps even more so than the Opry's founder George D. Hay. While the founder wanted to keep the Opry simple and down to earth, featuring local and regional musicians, Harry saw the value on the Opry to WSM and National Life. He began to add professional musicians and singers to the Opry cast, including Pee Wee King, Roy Acuff and Eddy Arnold. There was a lot of conflict between George D. Hay and Harry Stone, and in 1932 it reached its high point as Harry became the general manager at WSM, putting him ahead of Hay in the pecking order at the station. Many should thank Harry for his leadership at the Opry, as many of the decisions he made allowed the show to survive while other barn dance shows failed.
October 19, 1968: In an interview published in the Nashville Tennessean, WSM President Irving Waugh said that the Opry's days at the Ryman Auditorium were numbered. The article stated, "The initiation of plans for the relocation of the Opry, possibly as the center of a multi-million dollar hotel and amusement complex, was announced at a breakfast at Municipal Auditorium sponsored by WSM." Irving Waugh said, "Our feeling is that the Grand Ole Opry needs a new, modern facility. It is estimated the center, which would be called Opryland USA, would require between one hundred fifty and two hundred acres of land. The location would not be in the Music Row area." Over time, details would be announced and the Opry would leave downtown and the Ryman for a rural location that became Opryland USA.
October 16, 1971: Freddie Hart made his debut on the Grand Ole Opry. This was also the night of the Opry's 46th birthday celebration.
October 27, 1973: Comedian and story teller Jerry Clower became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. He was the last member to join the Opry while the show was still located at the Ryman Auditorium. When Jerry joined the cast, comedy was still a big part of the show, as Jerry joined fellow comedians Minnie Pearl, Archie Campbell, Grandpa Jones and Lonzo & Oscar as active Opry members.
October 18, 1975: The Grand Ole Opry celebrated its 50th anniversary with a star studded weekend at the Grand Ole Opry House. Looking back, the 50th is considered one of the biggest shows in the history of the Opry.
October 9, 1982: George Strait made his Grand Ole Opry debut. There are many who believe that George never appeared on the Opry, but he did. Over the years there have been rumors and stories regarding George and the Opry's management, especially in regards to the lack of future appearances or Opry membership. However, with George based in Texas and really having no Nashville connections, there was no reason to believe that George would ever become an Opry member.
October 16, 1982: Grand Ole Opry member Doyle Wilburn passed away in Nashville at the age of 52. The Wilburn Brothers, Teddy and Doyle, first appeared on the Opry with the rest of their siblings in the 1940s, however child labor laws sent them away from Nashville and the Opry. They came back, and in 1953 became Opry members. After Doyle's death, Teddy continued on as a solo member of the cast.
October 17, 1982: Alcyone Bate Beasley died. While the name might not mean a lot to some people, Alcyone was there when it all started in 1925 as a member of Dr. Humphrey Bate's Possum Hunters. Dr. Bate was Alcyone's father. After he died, Alcyone worked to keep the Possum Hunters going, but years later,when the square dance bands were merged, the Possum Hunters name disappeared from the Opry's programs. Even in her final years, Alcyone would always appear on the Opry's annual reunion shows.
October 19, 1982: Alabama traveled up to Nashville and made their first appearance on the Opry. While it was their first appearance, it would not be their last.
October 24, 1983: Grand Ole Opry member, and one of the originals, Kirk McGee passed away. Along with his brother Sam, Kirk made his first Opry appearance in 1926, back when the show was called the WSM Barn Dance. Over the years, he would be a part of the Dixieliners and the Fruit Jar Drinkers, in addition to performing with his brother. His last Opry show had been the previous Saturday night.October 19, 1985: Lonzo & Oscar made their final appearance as members of the Grand Ole Opry. Rollin Sullivan, who was Oscar, originally came to the Opry in 1942. Over the years there were three different Lonzos, starting with Ken Marvin, followed by Rollin's brother Johnny, and finally David Hooten.
October 3, 1989: Grand Ole Opry member Del Wood passed away in Nashville after suffering a stroke several weeks later. Del, whose real name was Adelaide Hazelwood, came to the Opry in 1953 and was famous for her ragtime piano playing and her No. 1 hit 'Down Yonder." Much like others, with Del's passing the ragtime piano playing has disappeared from the Opry stage.
October 14, 1989: Holly Dunn became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Holly would remain an Opry member until she left the music business and moved to New Mexico to concentrate on her art work. Holly, who was not happy with her firing from the Opry, passed away from cancer in November 2016. And yes, she was fired.
October 28, 1989: Bill Monroe, the Father of Bluegrass Music, celebrated 50 years as a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Among those appearing on the televised portion that night to honor Bill, which was hosted by Grant Turner, were Emmylou Harris and Larry Cordle.
October 9, 1990: Garth Brooks became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. This will be Garth's 29th year as an Opry member, an honor that he considers one of the most important in his professional career. While Garth's Opry appearances have been few over the past several decades, he always brings excitement each time he appears on the Opry stage.
October 4, 1991: Diamond Rio made their first guest appearance on the Opry. 7 years later, in 1998, they would become Opry members.
October 19, 1991: Legendary Grand Ole Opry announcer Grant Turner passed away, just hours after announcing the Friday Night Opry. Grant was the dean of Opry announcers and started at WSM on D-Day in 1944. Over the years, he also hosted the Ernest Tubb Midnight Jamboree and the Opry's warm-up show. Grant is also a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame.
October 24, 1991: Gaylord Entertainment Company, owners of WSM and the Grand Ole Opry, listed its stock on the New York Stock Exchange for the first time. Many have said that this is the event that started the downfall of the Opry as the company went public after years of private ownership, and the focus changed. From that point forward, decisions were made based on the effect on the bottom line of the company.
October 23, 1992: Roy Acuff made his final Grand Ole Opry appearance. It was a Friday night show and Roy, in declining health, hosted his segment while sitting in a director's chair. He was scheduled for the following Saturday night, however he took a nap that afternoon and his family decided not to wake him. Days later he entered the hospital for what would be the final time.
October 14, 1996: Bob Whittaker, Vice President and General Manager of the Grand Ole Opry was named President of the Grand Ole Opry Group of Gaylord Entertainment Company. He replaced Hal Durham, who was retiring.
October 15, 2000: The Grand Ole Opry celebrated its 75th birthday with four shows that weekend, including two on Saturday night that featured a majority of the Opry's members including Garth Brooks, Dolly Parton, Vince Gill and Alison Krauss. On a personal note, we attended the shows that weekend and they were probably the best, and had the strongest line-ups of any Opry show that I have attended.
October 17, 2002: Grand Ole Opry member Brother Oswald passed away. Beecher Ray Kirby first came to the Opry with Roy Acuff on January 1, 1939. After Roy's death in 1992, Brother Oswald was asked to become an Opry member, a well deserved honor in recognition of over 50 years already appearing on the Opry. Usually during his segment Oswald would perform his dobro with Charlie Collins on guitar.
October 4, 2003: The Grand Ole Opry is televised on Great American Country (GAC) for the first time, moving over after spending several years on Country Music Television (CMT).
October 25, 2003: Del McCoury became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. This will be Del's 16th year as an Opry member. Del, who usually appears on the weeknight shows, was formally inducted by Patty Loveless.
October 1, 2005: Dierks Bentley became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. For Dierks, this will be year number 14 of Opry membership. Dierks, who is a former employee of The Nashville Network, made his Opry debut in April 2003. On the night of his induction, it was Porter Wagoner doing the honors.
October 15, 2005: The Grand Ole Opry celebrated its 80th birthday. Garth Brooks marked the occasion by coming out of retirement and joining Jimmy Dickens, Porter Wagoner and Bill Anderson on stage. For Garth, it was his first Opry appearance in five years. Also on board that night was Garth's friend Steve Wariner.
October 9, 2007: Grand Ole Opry member Porter Wagoner made his final appearance during that night's Tuesday Night Opry. Porter was in declining health and would pass away several months later.
October 27, 2007: Josh Turner became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. This will be Josh's 12th year as a member of the Opry's cast. Josh had made numerous guest appearances on the Opry, performing his hit "Long Black Train." It was during one of those appearances that Roy Clark surprised Josh with an invitation to join the cast.
October 28, 2007: Grand Ole Opry legend Porter Wagoner passed away in Nashville at the age of 80. One of the most popular members in the history of the Opry, Porter had just celebrated his 50th anniversary as a member of the Opry several months before. Not only was he a great solo artist, but he made some great duets with Dolly Parton. Porter died as a result of lung cancer.
October 10, 2008: Longtime Grand Ole Opry member Ernie Ashworth made his final appearance on that evenings Friday Night Opry. Ernie, who passed away in March 2009, was an Opry member for over 40 years, joining the cast in March 1964.
October 11, 2008: Marshall Barnes passed away. To some of the more recent readers, the name may not mean much, but Marshall was a part of the Opry for many years, first with Cowboy Copas, and later with Grandpa Jones, Roy Acuff and Bill Carlisle. Marshall was a great bass singer who also played the fiddle and guitar.
October 25, 2008: Craig Morgan became a member of the cast of the Grand Ole Opry. Inducted by John Conlee, Craig will be celebrating 11 years as a member.
October 22, 2010: Blake Shelton became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. This will be Blake's 9th year as an Opry member.
October 8, 2011: During the Opry's 86th birthday celebration, Rascal Flatts were inducted as the newest members of the Grand Ole Opry. Among those on hand that night to welcome the group to the cast was Opry member Vince Gill.
October 16, 2012: Darius Rucker became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. He was surprised during a guest appearance by an audience member, who happened to be Brad Paisley, to come and join the cast. This will be his 7th year as an Opry member.
October 23, 2012: On what would have been the 100th birthday of Minnie Pearl, the Grand Ole Opry honored her memory with a special tribute show. Among those appearing that night were Vince Gill, Amy Grant, Pam Tillis and her dad, Mel.
October 3, 2014: During a guest appearance on the Friday Night Opry, Little Big Town was surprised when Reba McEntire walked out on stage during their performance to ask the group if they wished to become the newest members of the Grand Ole Opry. Of course, they said yes, and on October 17th, they were formally inducted.
October 17, 2015: Country music Hall of Fame member Merle Haggard made a surprise appearance on that night's Grand Ole Opry. Introduced by Connie Smith, it would be Merle's final appearance on the Opry.
October 29, 2016: Luke Combs made his debut on the Grand Ole Opry. Earlier this year, he became a member of the Opry's cast.
October 17, 2017: Chris Young became the newest member of the Grand Ole Opry. This will be Chris' 2nd year as an Opry member.
October 12, 2019: Dolly Parton will be honored upon her 50th anniversary as a member of the Grand Ole Opry. While the actual induction date was in January, it took until the October date for everything to be planed out. Dolly made her Opry debut in 1959, and then returned in 1967 as a part of Porter Wagoner's outfit.
Wow. There you have the highlights for this month.
Friday, October 11, 2019
Grand Ole Opry 10/11 & 10/12
Update:
The line-ups have been posted.
Friday October 11
1st show
7:00: Bill Anderson; John Conlee
7:30: Mark Willis; Connie Smith; Mike Snider
8:00: Margo Price; Dierks Bentley
8:30: Emmylou Harris; Chris Janson
2nd show
9:30: Bill Anderson; Chris Janson
10:00: Jeannie Seely; Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; John Conlee
10:30: Riders In The Sky; Margo Price
11:00: Mark Wills; Emmylou Harris
Saturday October 12
1st show
7:00: Opry Square Dancers; Bill Anderson; Jeannie Seely; Candi Carpenter
7:30: Margo Price; Toby Keith
8:00: Lady Antebellum; Hank Williams, Jr.
8:30: Dolly Parton
2nd show
9:30: Opry Square Dancers; Bill Anderson; Connie Smith
10:00: Candi Carpenter; Margo Price
10:30: Toby Keith; Lady Antebellum
11:00: Dolly Parton
Really a mix and match on both nights. Some of the veterans set for just one show, with a couple traditional segments and then two guest segments. While Dolly is scheduled for just the last segment on each of the Saturday night shows, it will be interesting to see what interaction she has the rest of the night. And what about a Friday night appearance?
____________________________________________________________________
Well, it is finally here, "Dolly Week" at the Grand Ole Opry as Dolly Parton will be celebrating her 50th anniversary as a member of the Grand Ole Opry. While the actual anniversary date was this past January, it took until October for Dolly and the Opry to agree on the date.
While the planning has been going on for a while, there was a big announcement earlier this week regarding Dolly, the Opry, and NBC. "Dolly Parton: 50 Years at the Grand Ole Opry" will air on November 26 from 9-11 p.m. This two hour special will include Dolly interacting and performing with many of the artists scheduled to appear on this weekend's Friday Night Opry and Saturday's Grand Ole Opry. While Dolly is only scheduled to perform on Saturday night, it would appear that she will also be making some type of appearance on Friday. The special will also include Dolly talking about the Opry and highlighting the Dolly backstage exhibit that is on display in Studio A behind the Opry House.
So, with all of that going on, there still is no official line-up listed for the shows this weekend. Here is what I have:
Scheduled to appear on both of the Friday night shows are Emmylou Harris, Margo Price, Chris Janson, Bill Anderson and Mark Wills. Additionally, Dierks Bentley is scheduled for the 1st show. Margo Price is also scheduled to appear on both shows Saturday night, where she will be joined by Lady Antebellum, Jeannie Seely, Toby Keith and Candi Carpenter. And in a real surprise, Hank Williams, Jr. is scheduled for the 1st show.
More acts will be announced and I am sure there will be some special unannounced surprises. Once the full line-up is posted, I will update.
_______________________________________________________________________
And now, here is the posted Grand Ole Opry line-up from ten years ago, the second weekend in October 2009. It was also the weekend of the Opry's 84th birthday celebration.
Friday October 9
7:00: John Conlee (host); Jeannie Seely; Riders In The Sky; Ricky Skaggs
7:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); The Whites; Patty Loveless
8:00: Mike Snider (host); BJ Thomas; Josh Turner
8:30: Bill Anderson (host); Jack Greene; Jean Shepard; Montgomery Gentry.
Saturday October 10
1st show
7:00: Jimmy Dickens (host); The Whites; Kathy Mattea
7:30: Lorrie Morgan (host); Jan Howard; George Hamilton IV; Jean Shepard
8:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Jim Ed Brown; Joe Diffie; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Bill Anderson (host); Mike Snider; Diamond Rio
2nd show
9:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Lorrie Morgan; Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press
10:00: Mike Snider (host); Ray Pillow; Kathy Mattea
10:30: Diamond Rio (host); Stu Phillips; Jean Shepard; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Bill Anderson (host); Jim Ed Brown; Joe Diffie.
What was interesting is that both shows featured all Opry members with the exception of BJ Thomas on the Friday Night Opry, who was a former Opry member, and Kathy Mattea on Saturday night, who in my opinion, should be an Opry member.
Now from 25 years ago, Saturday October 8, 1994:
1st show
6:30: Jean Shepard (host); Bill Carlisle
6:45: Bill Anderson (host); Wilma Lee Cooper
7:00: Jim Ed Brown (host); Stonewall Jackson; Brother Oswald; The Whites
7:30: Holly Dunn (host); Mel McDaniel; Riders In The Sky
8:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Jeanne Pruett; Melissa Marshall; Jack Greene; Opry Square Dance Band; The Melvin Sloan Dancers
8:30: Hank Snow (host); Jim and Jesse; The Four Guys; Billy Walker; Mike Snider
2nd show
9:30: Porter Wagoner (host); Jeanne Pruett; Riders In The Sky; Holly Dunn
10:00: Bill Anderson (host); Osborne Brothers
10:15: Jean Shepard (host); Ray Pillow
10:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); The Whites
10:45: Jack Greene (host); Charlie Walker; Opry Square Dance Band; The Melvin Sloan Dancers
11:00: Hank Snow (host); Jeannie Seely; Billy Walker; Johnny Russell
11:30: Mike Snider (host); The Four Guys; Connie Smith
Finally, from 50 years ago, Saturday October 11, 1969:
1st show
6:30: Glaser Brothers (host); Del Wood; Connie Eaton
6:45: Stu Phillips (host); Linda Martel; Jack Barlow
7:00: Roy Acuff (host); Earl Scruggs Revue; Darrell McCall
7:30: Porter Wagoner (host); Charlie Walker; Dolly Parton; Crook Brothers; Buck Trent
8:00: Ernest Tubb (host); Skeeter Davis; Charley Pride; Billy Parker
8:30: Hank Snow (host); Fruit Jar Drinkers; Archie Campbell
2nd show
9:30: Glaser Brothers (host); Stu Phillips; Willis Brothers; Connie Eaton
10:00: Bobby Luman (host); Charlie Walker; Jack Barlow
10:15: Roy Acuff (host); Earl Scruggs Revue; Skeeter Davis
10:30: Porter Wagoner (host); Dolly Parton; Del Wood
10:45: Ernest Tubb (host); Margie Bowes; Crook Brothers
11:00: Hank Snow (host); Jimmy Newman; Darrell McCall; Fruit Jar Drinkers; Sam McGee
11:30: Del Reeves (host); Justin Tubb; Charley Pride
Looking back into a few other dates that occurred this weekend, on Saturday October 11, 1986, the Grand Ole Opry celebrated it's 61st birthday. Here is the running order from that night, 33 years ago:
1st show
6:30: Bonanza
Jim Ed Brown (host): Looking Back to See
Jeanne Pruett: Satin Sheets
Osborne Brothers: Once More
Jim Ed Brown: Send Me the Pillow You Dream On
6:45: Rudy's
Charlie Walker (host): The Mean Woman with the Green Eyes
The Four Guys: The Grandest Lady of them All
Charlie Walker and Joe Edwards: Ida Red
7:00: Shoney's
Tom T. Hall (host): The Year that Clayton Delaney Died
David Houston: No One Will Ever Know/Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain
Hank Locklin: Danny Boy
Ed Bruce: The Streets of Laredo/You're the Best Break this Old Heart Ever Had
Tom T. Hall: Old Dogs, Children and Watermelon Wine
7:30: Standard Candy
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
The Whites: It Should've Been Easy
Connie Smith: Hold Me Back
Crook Brothers and The Melvin Sloan Dancers: Instrumental
Roy Acuff: Meeting in the Air
8:00: Martha White
Bill Monroe (host): Molly & Tenbrooks
Jack Greene: There Goes My Everything
Jean Shepard: Second Fiddle
Riders In The Sky: Teardrops in My Heart
Roy Drusky and Riders In The Sky: Cool Water
Bill Monroe: Lord, Protect My Soul
8:30: Music Valley Drive
Hank Snow (host): Forever +1; Forever +2
Lorrie Morgan: Do I Love You
Billy Walker: Am I Blue
Del Wood: 12th Street Rag
Stu Phillips: The Great El Tigrae
Hank Snow: Nevertheless/Nova Scotia
2nd show
9:30: Dollar General
Bill Monroe (host): Uncle Pen
The Four Guys: Fox on the Run
Jeannie Seely: All I Need to Know
Tom T. Hall: P.S., I Love You/I'm Not that Good at Goodbyes
Bill Monroe: Boat of Love
10:00: Little Debbie
Stonewall Jackson (host): Don't Be Angry
Jan Howard: You Don't Know Me
Bill Carlisle: Leave that Liar Alone
Stonewall Jackson: 'Ol Chuck of Coal
10:15: Sunbeam
Roy Acuff (host): Meeting in the Air
Charlie Louvin: I Can't Help It/Mansion on the Hill
Roy Thackerson: Orange Blossom Special/Ragtime Annie
Roy Acuff and Grand Ole Opry Cast: Happy Birthday Grand Ole Opry
10:30: Pet Milk
Jim Ed Brown (host): Everyday People
Ed Bruce: Nights are the Loneliest Part of the Day
Jim Ed Brown: The 3 Bells
10:45: Heil Quaker
Billy Walker (host): Word Games
The Whites: Blue Letters
Crook Brothers and The Melvin Sloan Dancers: Bill Cheatham
Billy Walker: You Gave Me a Mountain
11:00: Coca Cola
Hank Snow (host): Right or Wrong
Justin Tubb: Thanks Troubadour, Thanks
Hank Locklin: Please Help Me, I'm Falling
Connie Smith: Hold Me Back
David Houston: Living in a House Full of Love
Hank Snow: It Kinda Reminds Me of Me/Nova Scotia
11:30: Quincy's
Jack Greene (host): Midnight Tennessee Woman
Lorrie Morgan: Unchanged Melody
Roy Drusky: Mississippi
Riders In The Sky: How the Yodel was Born
Johnny Russell: No One Will Every Know
Finally, the Grand Ole Opry's 77th birthday bash took place on Saturday October 12, 2002 and included a surprised guest, Clint Black, who was not listed in the program for that night. It was truly a surprise when Bill Anderson brought him out.
1st show
6:30: Tennessee Pride
Jimmy Dickens (host): Out Behind the Barn
The Whites: Swing Down Chariot
Holly Dunn: Can't Stop Now
Steve Wariner: Where Did I Go Wrong/You Don't Have Very Far to Go
Jimmy Dickens: Mountain Dew
7:00: Opry Book/Standard Candy
Bill Anderson (host):
Clint Black: Are You Sure Waylon Done it This Way/Wondering
Bill Anderson: I Wonder if God Likes Country Music
Rebecca Lynn Howard: God's Country
Martina McBride: Where Would You Be/Harper Valley PTA
Ralph Stanley: I Have Been Blessed/The Girl From The Greenbriar Shore
Ralph Stanley Jr.: Ruby, Don't Take You Guns To Town
Ralph Stanley: Man of Constant Sorrow
Bill Anderson: The Corner of My Life
Grand Ole Opry Cast: Happy Birthday Grand Ole Opry
8:00: Martha White
Porter Wagoner (host): Why Don't You Haul Off & Love Me
Bill Carlisle: Too Old to Cut the Mustard
Connie Smith: Ain't Had no Lovin'
Osborne Brothers: Rocky Top
Opry Square Dance Band: Cherokee Shuffle
Porter Wagoner: Just Someone I Used to Know
8:30: Physicians Mutual
Jeannie Seely (host): Those Memories
Billy Walker: She Goes Walking Through My Mind
T. Bubba Bechtol: Comedy
Lorrie Morgan: I Didn't Know My Own Strength/I'm One of a Kind
Jeannie Seely: Don't Touch Me
2nd show
9:30: Opry Book
Jimmy Dickens (host): Take An Old Cold Tater
Jim Ed Brown: The 3 Bells
Osborne Brothers: Kentucky
Lorrie Morgan: Don't Stop in My World/Cry Me a River
Jimmy Dickens: I'd Rather Sleep in Peace Then Know You're Gone
10:00: Lincoln Mercury/Shoney's
Porter Wagoner (host): Ol' Slewfoot
Billy Walker: Jesus Walks In
Jack Greene: Statue of a Fool
Ralph Stanley: I Hear a Choo-Choo Coming/Katy Daley/Mountain Dew/Little Maggie
Wagonmasters: (?)
10:30: WSM online.com/Ryman Auditorium
Bill Anderson (host): Po Folks
Charlie Louvin: Will You Visit Me on Sundays
Martina McBride: I Have Been Blessed/Harper Valley PTA
Opry Square Dance Band: Rachel
Grand Ole Opry Cast: Happy Birthday Grand Ole Opry
11:00: Coca-Cola
Steve Wariner (host): Burning the Roadhouse Down
Holly Dunn: Can't Stop Now
T. Bubba Bechtol: Comedy
Rebecca Lynn Howard: God's Country/Forgive
Steve Wariner: You Don't Have Very Far to Go
11:30: Opry.com
Jeannie Seely (host): Hey Good Lookin'
Ernie Ashworth: Each Moment Spent with You
Ray Pillow: Dreams of a Dreamer
Connie Smith: How Great Thou Art
Jeannie Seely: Pride
There you have it for this week. As always, thanks for reading and commenting on the blog. And I hope everyone enjoys the Grand Ole Opry this weekend.
And congratulations to Dolly Parton. Hopefully this will not be the last that we see her on the Opry.
The line-ups have been posted.
Friday October 11
1st show
7:00: Bill Anderson; John Conlee
7:30: Mark Willis; Connie Smith; Mike Snider
8:00: Margo Price; Dierks Bentley
8:30: Emmylou Harris; Chris Janson
2nd show
9:30: Bill Anderson; Chris Janson
10:00: Jeannie Seely; Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; John Conlee
10:30: Riders In The Sky; Margo Price
11:00: Mark Wills; Emmylou Harris
Saturday October 12
1st show
7:00: Opry Square Dancers; Bill Anderson; Jeannie Seely; Candi Carpenter
7:30: Margo Price; Toby Keith
8:00: Lady Antebellum; Hank Williams, Jr.
8:30: Dolly Parton
2nd show
9:30: Opry Square Dancers; Bill Anderson; Connie Smith
10:00: Candi Carpenter; Margo Price
10:30: Toby Keith; Lady Antebellum
11:00: Dolly Parton
Really a mix and match on both nights. Some of the veterans set for just one show, with a couple traditional segments and then two guest segments. While Dolly is scheduled for just the last segment on each of the Saturday night shows, it will be interesting to see what interaction she has the rest of the night. And what about a Friday night appearance?
____________________________________________________________________
Well, it is finally here, "Dolly Week" at the Grand Ole Opry as Dolly Parton will be celebrating her 50th anniversary as a member of the Grand Ole Opry. While the actual anniversary date was this past January, it took until October for Dolly and the Opry to agree on the date.
While the planning has been going on for a while, there was a big announcement earlier this week regarding Dolly, the Opry, and NBC. "Dolly Parton: 50 Years at the Grand Ole Opry" will air on November 26 from 9-11 p.m. This two hour special will include Dolly interacting and performing with many of the artists scheduled to appear on this weekend's Friday Night Opry and Saturday's Grand Ole Opry. While Dolly is only scheduled to perform on Saturday night, it would appear that she will also be making some type of appearance on Friday. The special will also include Dolly talking about the Opry and highlighting the Dolly backstage exhibit that is on display in Studio A behind the Opry House.
So, with all of that going on, there still is no official line-up listed for the shows this weekend. Here is what I have:
Scheduled to appear on both of the Friday night shows are Emmylou Harris, Margo Price, Chris Janson, Bill Anderson and Mark Wills. Additionally, Dierks Bentley is scheduled for the 1st show. Margo Price is also scheduled to appear on both shows Saturday night, where she will be joined by Lady Antebellum, Jeannie Seely, Toby Keith and Candi Carpenter. And in a real surprise, Hank Williams, Jr. is scheduled for the 1st show.
More acts will be announced and I am sure there will be some special unannounced surprises. Once the full line-up is posted, I will update.
_______________________________________________________________________
And now, here is the posted Grand Ole Opry line-up from ten years ago, the second weekend in October 2009. It was also the weekend of the Opry's 84th birthday celebration.
Friday October 9
7:00: John Conlee (host); Jeannie Seely; Riders In The Sky; Ricky Skaggs
7:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); The Whites; Patty Loveless
8:00: Mike Snider (host); BJ Thomas; Josh Turner
8:30: Bill Anderson (host); Jack Greene; Jean Shepard; Montgomery Gentry.
Saturday October 10
1st show
7:00: Jimmy Dickens (host); The Whites; Kathy Mattea
7:30: Lorrie Morgan (host); Jan Howard; George Hamilton IV; Jean Shepard
8:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Jim Ed Brown; Joe Diffie; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Bill Anderson (host); Mike Snider; Diamond Rio
2nd show
9:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Lorrie Morgan; Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press
10:00: Mike Snider (host); Ray Pillow; Kathy Mattea
10:30: Diamond Rio (host); Stu Phillips; Jean Shepard; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Bill Anderson (host); Jim Ed Brown; Joe Diffie.
What was interesting is that both shows featured all Opry members with the exception of BJ Thomas on the Friday Night Opry, who was a former Opry member, and Kathy Mattea on Saturday night, who in my opinion, should be an Opry member.
Now from 25 years ago, Saturday October 8, 1994:
1st show
6:30: Jean Shepard (host); Bill Carlisle
6:45: Bill Anderson (host); Wilma Lee Cooper
7:00: Jim Ed Brown (host); Stonewall Jackson; Brother Oswald; The Whites
7:30: Holly Dunn (host); Mel McDaniel; Riders In The Sky
8:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Jeanne Pruett; Melissa Marshall; Jack Greene; Opry Square Dance Band; The Melvin Sloan Dancers
8:30: Hank Snow (host); Jim and Jesse; The Four Guys; Billy Walker; Mike Snider
2nd show
9:30: Porter Wagoner (host); Jeanne Pruett; Riders In The Sky; Holly Dunn
10:00: Bill Anderson (host); Osborne Brothers
10:15: Jean Shepard (host); Ray Pillow
10:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); The Whites
10:45: Jack Greene (host); Charlie Walker; Opry Square Dance Band; The Melvin Sloan Dancers
11:00: Hank Snow (host); Jeannie Seely; Billy Walker; Johnny Russell
11:30: Mike Snider (host); The Four Guys; Connie Smith
Finally, from 50 years ago, Saturday October 11, 1969:
1st show
6:30: Glaser Brothers (host); Del Wood; Connie Eaton
6:45: Stu Phillips (host); Linda Martel; Jack Barlow
7:00: Roy Acuff (host); Earl Scruggs Revue; Darrell McCall
7:30: Porter Wagoner (host); Charlie Walker; Dolly Parton; Crook Brothers; Buck Trent
8:00: Ernest Tubb (host); Skeeter Davis; Charley Pride; Billy Parker
8:30: Hank Snow (host); Fruit Jar Drinkers; Archie Campbell
2nd show
9:30: Glaser Brothers (host); Stu Phillips; Willis Brothers; Connie Eaton
10:00: Bobby Luman (host); Charlie Walker; Jack Barlow
10:15: Roy Acuff (host); Earl Scruggs Revue; Skeeter Davis
10:30: Porter Wagoner (host); Dolly Parton; Del Wood
10:45: Ernest Tubb (host); Margie Bowes; Crook Brothers
11:00: Hank Snow (host); Jimmy Newman; Darrell McCall; Fruit Jar Drinkers; Sam McGee
11:30: Del Reeves (host); Justin Tubb; Charley Pride
Looking back into a few other dates that occurred this weekend, on Saturday October 11, 1986, the Grand Ole Opry celebrated it's 61st birthday. Here is the running order from that night, 33 years ago:
1st show
6:30: Bonanza
Jim Ed Brown (host): Looking Back to See
Jeanne Pruett: Satin Sheets
Osborne Brothers: Once More
Jim Ed Brown: Send Me the Pillow You Dream On
6:45: Rudy's
Charlie Walker (host): The Mean Woman with the Green Eyes
The Four Guys: The Grandest Lady of them All
Charlie Walker and Joe Edwards: Ida Red
7:00: Shoney's
Tom T. Hall (host): The Year that Clayton Delaney Died
David Houston: No One Will Ever Know/Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain
Hank Locklin: Danny Boy
Ed Bruce: The Streets of Laredo/You're the Best Break this Old Heart Ever Had
Tom T. Hall: Old Dogs, Children and Watermelon Wine
7:30: Standard Candy
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
The Whites: It Should've Been Easy
Connie Smith: Hold Me Back
Crook Brothers and The Melvin Sloan Dancers: Instrumental
Roy Acuff: Meeting in the Air
8:00: Martha White
Bill Monroe (host): Molly & Tenbrooks
Jack Greene: There Goes My Everything
Jean Shepard: Second Fiddle
Riders In The Sky: Teardrops in My Heart
Roy Drusky and Riders In The Sky: Cool Water
Bill Monroe: Lord, Protect My Soul
8:30: Music Valley Drive
Hank Snow (host): Forever +1; Forever +2
Lorrie Morgan: Do I Love You
Billy Walker: Am I Blue
Del Wood: 12th Street Rag
Stu Phillips: The Great El Tigrae
Hank Snow: Nevertheless/Nova Scotia
2nd show
9:30: Dollar General
Bill Monroe (host): Uncle Pen
The Four Guys: Fox on the Run
Jeannie Seely: All I Need to Know
Tom T. Hall: P.S., I Love You/I'm Not that Good at Goodbyes
Bill Monroe: Boat of Love
10:00: Little Debbie
Stonewall Jackson (host): Don't Be Angry
Jan Howard: You Don't Know Me
Bill Carlisle: Leave that Liar Alone
Stonewall Jackson: 'Ol Chuck of Coal
10:15: Sunbeam
Roy Acuff (host): Meeting in the Air
Charlie Louvin: I Can't Help It/Mansion on the Hill
Roy Thackerson: Orange Blossom Special/Ragtime Annie
Roy Acuff and Grand Ole Opry Cast: Happy Birthday Grand Ole Opry
10:30: Pet Milk
Jim Ed Brown (host): Everyday People
Ed Bruce: Nights are the Loneliest Part of the Day
Jim Ed Brown: The 3 Bells
10:45: Heil Quaker
Billy Walker (host): Word Games
The Whites: Blue Letters
Crook Brothers and The Melvin Sloan Dancers: Bill Cheatham
Billy Walker: You Gave Me a Mountain
11:00: Coca Cola
Hank Snow (host): Right or Wrong
Justin Tubb: Thanks Troubadour, Thanks
Hank Locklin: Please Help Me, I'm Falling
Connie Smith: Hold Me Back
David Houston: Living in a House Full of Love
Hank Snow: It Kinda Reminds Me of Me/Nova Scotia
11:30: Quincy's
Jack Greene (host): Midnight Tennessee Woman
Lorrie Morgan: Unchanged Melody
Roy Drusky: Mississippi
Riders In The Sky: How the Yodel was Born
Johnny Russell: No One Will Every Know
Finally, the Grand Ole Opry's 77th birthday bash took place on Saturday October 12, 2002 and included a surprised guest, Clint Black, who was not listed in the program for that night. It was truly a surprise when Bill Anderson brought him out.
1st show
6:30: Tennessee Pride
Jimmy Dickens (host): Out Behind the Barn
The Whites: Swing Down Chariot
Holly Dunn: Can't Stop Now
Steve Wariner: Where Did I Go Wrong/You Don't Have Very Far to Go
Jimmy Dickens: Mountain Dew
7:00: Opry Book/Standard Candy
Bill Anderson (host):
Clint Black: Are You Sure Waylon Done it This Way/Wondering
Bill Anderson: I Wonder if God Likes Country Music
Rebecca Lynn Howard: God's Country
Martina McBride: Where Would You Be/Harper Valley PTA
Ralph Stanley: I Have Been Blessed/The Girl From The Greenbriar Shore
Ralph Stanley Jr.: Ruby, Don't Take You Guns To Town
Ralph Stanley: Man of Constant Sorrow
Bill Anderson: The Corner of My Life
Grand Ole Opry Cast: Happy Birthday Grand Ole Opry
8:00: Martha White
Porter Wagoner (host): Why Don't You Haul Off & Love Me
Bill Carlisle: Too Old to Cut the Mustard
Connie Smith: Ain't Had no Lovin'
Osborne Brothers: Rocky Top
Opry Square Dance Band: Cherokee Shuffle
Porter Wagoner: Just Someone I Used to Know
8:30: Physicians Mutual
Jeannie Seely (host): Those Memories
Billy Walker: She Goes Walking Through My Mind
T. Bubba Bechtol: Comedy
Lorrie Morgan: I Didn't Know My Own Strength/I'm One of a Kind
Jeannie Seely: Don't Touch Me
2nd show
9:30: Opry Book
Jimmy Dickens (host): Take An Old Cold Tater
Jim Ed Brown: The 3 Bells
Osborne Brothers: Kentucky
Lorrie Morgan: Don't Stop in My World/Cry Me a River
Jimmy Dickens: I'd Rather Sleep in Peace Then Know You're Gone
10:00: Lincoln Mercury/Shoney's
Porter Wagoner (host): Ol' Slewfoot
Billy Walker: Jesus Walks In
Jack Greene: Statue of a Fool
Ralph Stanley: I Hear a Choo-Choo Coming/Katy Daley/Mountain Dew/Little Maggie
Wagonmasters: (?)
10:30: WSM online.com/Ryman Auditorium
Bill Anderson (host): Po Folks
Charlie Louvin: Will You Visit Me on Sundays
Martina McBride: I Have Been Blessed/Harper Valley PTA
Opry Square Dance Band: Rachel
Grand Ole Opry Cast: Happy Birthday Grand Ole Opry
11:00: Coca-Cola
Steve Wariner (host): Burning the Roadhouse Down
Holly Dunn: Can't Stop Now
T. Bubba Bechtol: Comedy
Rebecca Lynn Howard: God's Country/Forgive
Steve Wariner: You Don't Have Very Far to Go
11:30: Opry.com
Jeannie Seely (host): Hey Good Lookin'
Ernie Ashworth: Each Moment Spent with You
Ray Pillow: Dreams of a Dreamer
Connie Smith: How Great Thou Art
Jeannie Seely: Pride
There you have it for this week. As always, thanks for reading and commenting on the blog. And I hope everyone enjoys the Grand Ole Opry this weekend.
And congratulations to Dolly Parton. Hopefully this will not be the last that we see her on the Opry.
Monday, October 7, 2019
Mid-Week Shows & Opry Observations
Before getting to the mid-week line-ups, just a couple of observations from my week in Nashville and attending all of the Opry shows during the week, including the 94th Birthday Bash weekend. All of the shows were very, very good. The shows had a good flow to them and a great variety of artists.
There were a number of artists that I was very impressed with. Riders In The Sky were excellent on each of the six shows they were on, as was Bill Anderson. Po' Ramblin' Boys made their Opry debut on Tuesday night and did a nice job. They are a bluegrass group out of East Tennessee and impressed. I have always enjoyed David Ball. Dailey & Vincent were on Wednesday and Friday and they bring a lot of energy to the show. Mo Pitney and John Berry were also excellent.
My wife has been after me for a couple of years to see The Bacon Brothers, Michael and Kevin. On Wednesday night I finally saw them for the first time and thought they did a nice job. I would buy a ticket to see one of their shows.
As to the weekend, I thought everyone was good. It has been noted before, but Kathy Mattea would make an outstanding Opry member. I wouldn't be surprised if it happened one day, sooner rather than later. If I had one complaint it would be that she sang the same three songs on all four shows. I would have loved to have heard "Eighteen Wheels & A Dozen Roses" but it did not happen. It was nice to see John Conlee back on the Opry after being on the road for the past month or so. He posted that he has no other plans for the rest of the year other than the Opry. Also back was Mike Snider, who had been missing for a month. With his group, The Possum Touchers, they played those good old mountain tunes. And he added a little comedy also.
As to who was not there, Jesse McReynolds cancelled on Saturday night. He said he was still a little weak but hoped to be back this coming weekend. Opry members The Gatlin Brothers, Jeannie Seely, Connie Smith, Eddie Montgomery, The Whites, Bobby Osborne and Trace Adkins all were excellent.
The only guest artists to appear on the weekend shows, besides Kathy Mattea, were Gene Watson and Clare Dunn. Gene did his usual great job while this was the first time I had seen Clare and I can see that she has a good future in country music. She formally worked in the Opry gift shop.
Not taking away anything from these artists, but I was less impressed with Lindsey Ell, Matt Stell and Zach Williams. I know Zach is big in the gospel music field, and he worked hard, but just didn't feel it from his songs.
The Opry House on Tuesday night was about 2/3 filled, while on Wednesday it was a little less than that. Opry Country Classics, which was an excellent show, was sold out. Friday's first show was about 2/3 filled while the 2nd show had pretty low attendance, around 1500. Saturday had almost a full house for both shows.
I did not mention Opry Country Classics, saving that for a special mention. That show was outstanding. Wade Hayes is a very good country singer. Louise Mandrell still has it at the age of 65 and was promoting a new album of classic hits. T.G. Sheppard has great audience interaction. Finally, there was Lorrie Morgan. I hope this doesn't come off the wrong way, but in the last couple of times I have seen Lorrie on the Opry, she has looked a little rough, and sounded off. That was not the case on Thursday night. She looked and sounded the best I have seen in years. Her voice was powerful as was her stage presence. She looked great, wearing her hair in a straight style. Glad to have seen her.
Among other items, I did visit the Dolly Parton dress exhibit. At $12 it was a deal. It is located back in Studio A and I am sure everyone has read about the exhibit. It was interesting to see the dresses on display, along with pictures or videos of her actually wearing the dress on the occasion she wore it. There was also a video of Dolly, as she talked about the various dresses and the Opry.
Against my principles, I did park in the pay lot. It is behind the Roy Acuff and Opry House, a very short walk. $8 each night if you buy the ticket in advance. Easy in and out but not very many people parking in the lot. When I left the 2nd show on Friday night, my car was one of three.
To those I saw and talked to this past weekend, I enjoyed the visit. It is always fun to connect with fellow Grand Ole Opry fans. Hopefully you are all back next year.
Finally, I am very excited with Dan Rogers in charge of the Opry. I think you are going to see some nice things taking place as he moves forward. I am anxious and can't wait. I believe that the Opry is in very good hands as it moves toward it's 100th birthday.
Now, here are the line-ups for the mid-week shows:
Tuesday October 8
7:00: John Conlee; Stephanie Quayle
7:30: Jeannie Seely; The Isaacs
Intermission
8:15: Ashley Campbell; Suzy Bogguss
8:45: Dustin Lynch
Wednesday October 9
7:00: Riders In The Sky; Smithfield
7:30: The Whites; Stephanie Urbina Jones
Intermission
8:15: Del McCoury Band; Don Schlitz
8:45: Sam Williams; Sara Evans
Opry Country Classics Thursday October 10
Host: Larry Gatlin
Also Appearing: The Gatlin Brothers, Emily West, Sierra Hull, Hannah Dasher, Shawn Camp & Lauren Mascitti
The Thursday show is supposed to be part of the Dolly Parton 50th anniversary weekend.
There were a number of artists that I was very impressed with. Riders In The Sky were excellent on each of the six shows they were on, as was Bill Anderson. Po' Ramblin' Boys made their Opry debut on Tuesday night and did a nice job. They are a bluegrass group out of East Tennessee and impressed. I have always enjoyed David Ball. Dailey & Vincent were on Wednesday and Friday and they bring a lot of energy to the show. Mo Pitney and John Berry were also excellent.
My wife has been after me for a couple of years to see The Bacon Brothers, Michael and Kevin. On Wednesday night I finally saw them for the first time and thought they did a nice job. I would buy a ticket to see one of their shows.
As to the weekend, I thought everyone was good. It has been noted before, but Kathy Mattea would make an outstanding Opry member. I wouldn't be surprised if it happened one day, sooner rather than later. If I had one complaint it would be that she sang the same three songs on all four shows. I would have loved to have heard "Eighteen Wheels & A Dozen Roses" but it did not happen. It was nice to see John Conlee back on the Opry after being on the road for the past month or so. He posted that he has no other plans for the rest of the year other than the Opry. Also back was Mike Snider, who had been missing for a month. With his group, The Possum Touchers, they played those good old mountain tunes. And he added a little comedy also.
As to who was not there, Jesse McReynolds cancelled on Saturday night. He said he was still a little weak but hoped to be back this coming weekend. Opry members The Gatlin Brothers, Jeannie Seely, Connie Smith, Eddie Montgomery, The Whites, Bobby Osborne and Trace Adkins all were excellent.
The only guest artists to appear on the weekend shows, besides Kathy Mattea, were Gene Watson and Clare Dunn. Gene did his usual great job while this was the first time I had seen Clare and I can see that she has a good future in country music. She formally worked in the Opry gift shop.
Not taking away anything from these artists, but I was less impressed with Lindsey Ell, Matt Stell and Zach Williams. I know Zach is big in the gospel music field, and he worked hard, but just didn't feel it from his songs.
The Opry House on Tuesday night was about 2/3 filled, while on Wednesday it was a little less than that. Opry Country Classics, which was an excellent show, was sold out. Friday's first show was about 2/3 filled while the 2nd show had pretty low attendance, around 1500. Saturday had almost a full house for both shows.
I did not mention Opry Country Classics, saving that for a special mention. That show was outstanding. Wade Hayes is a very good country singer. Louise Mandrell still has it at the age of 65 and was promoting a new album of classic hits. T.G. Sheppard has great audience interaction. Finally, there was Lorrie Morgan. I hope this doesn't come off the wrong way, but in the last couple of times I have seen Lorrie on the Opry, she has looked a little rough, and sounded off. That was not the case on Thursday night. She looked and sounded the best I have seen in years. Her voice was powerful as was her stage presence. She looked great, wearing her hair in a straight style. Glad to have seen her.
Among other items, I did visit the Dolly Parton dress exhibit. At $12 it was a deal. It is located back in Studio A and I am sure everyone has read about the exhibit. It was interesting to see the dresses on display, along with pictures or videos of her actually wearing the dress on the occasion she wore it. There was also a video of Dolly, as she talked about the various dresses and the Opry.
Against my principles, I did park in the pay lot. It is behind the Roy Acuff and Opry House, a very short walk. $8 each night if you buy the ticket in advance. Easy in and out but not very many people parking in the lot. When I left the 2nd show on Friday night, my car was one of three.
To those I saw and talked to this past weekend, I enjoyed the visit. It is always fun to connect with fellow Grand Ole Opry fans. Hopefully you are all back next year.
Finally, I am very excited with Dan Rogers in charge of the Opry. I think you are going to see some nice things taking place as he moves forward. I am anxious and can't wait. I believe that the Opry is in very good hands as it moves toward it's 100th birthday.
Now, here are the line-ups for the mid-week shows:
Tuesday October 8
7:00: John Conlee; Stephanie Quayle
7:30: Jeannie Seely; The Isaacs
Intermission
8:15: Ashley Campbell; Suzy Bogguss
8:45: Dustin Lynch
Wednesday October 9
7:00: Riders In The Sky; Smithfield
7:30: The Whites; Stephanie Urbina Jones
Intermission
8:15: Del McCoury Band; Don Schlitz
8:45: Sam Williams; Sara Evans
Opry Country Classics Thursday October 10
Host: Larry Gatlin
Also Appearing: The Gatlin Brothers, Emily West, Sierra Hull, Hannah Dasher, Shawn Camp & Lauren Mascitti
The Thursday show is supposed to be part of the Dolly Parton 50th anniversary weekend.
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