Wednesday, August 30, 2023

Grand Ole Opry 9/1 & 9/2

Labor Day weekend is usually a tough time at the Grand Ole Opry. Many of the country artists, and Opry members, are out on the road as State Fair and County Fair season wraps up in many areas. In the past, Opry members made up the bult of county fair acts, as well as the outdoor music venues. Not so much anymore, but still enough of them are out on the road to affect the weekend lineup as there are only four Opry members each night, with two of those repeating. 

John Conlee and Don Schlitz are the members who will be appearing each night. They will be joined by Jeannie Seely and Mike Snider on Friday and Dailey & Vincent and Connie Smith on Saturday. 

Mark and Maggie O'Connor will be guesting on Friday night, along with Craig Campbell, Jake Hoot and Ben Folds, who will be making his Opry debut. 

Saturday night will feature John Oates, of Hall & Oates, making another Opry appearance. Also scheduled are Christian artists Keith & Kristyn Getty, Jessica Willis Fisher, and an act that we haven't seen on the Opry in a while, Sweethearts of the Rodeo. 

Also Saturday night, the Grand Master Fiddle Champions will be appearing. This is a tradition that goes back to the Opryland days, and it is wonderful that the Opry continues the tradition of having the winners appearing on the show. 

This will be the 52nd year for the contest, which will take place on Saturday and Sunday. at McAfee Concert Hall at Belmont University. Contestants from all over the world will be competing for the Champion titles in Youth, Traditional, and Open categories. The contest is Free to attend and will also be livestreamed. There is no entry fee and parking is free.

Special guests this year Mark and Maggie O'Connor and Mike Snider, who will be receiving the Dr. Perry F. Harris Distinguished Fiddler Award. Congratulations to Mike. 

Friday September 1
7:00: Jeannie Seely, Jake Hoot, Mike Snider, Craig Campbell
Intermission
8:15: John Conlee, Mark and Maggie O'Connor, Ben Folds, Don Schlitz

Saturday September 2
7:00: Opry Square Dancers, Dailey & Vincent, Sweethearts of the Rodeo, Keith & Kristyn Getty, Grand Master Fiddle Champions, John Conlee
Intermission
8:15: Connie Smith, Opry Square Dancers, Jessica Willis Fisher, John Oates, Don Schlitz

As mentioned, Ben Folds will be making his Opry debut on Friday night. 

He is an Emmy-nominated singer-songwriter-composer and has created an enormous body of genre-bending music that includes pop albums with Ben Folds Five, multiple solo albums, and numerous collaborative records. His latest album What Matters Most was released this summer to rave reviews and sold-out performances. He currently tours as a pop artist, while also performing with some of the world’s greatest symphony orchestras and serving as the first ever Artistic Advisor to the National Symphony Orchestra at the Kennedy Center in Washington DC. A New York Times Best Selling author and podcast host, Ben is also working on new compositions for film, tv and theatre. He also frequently guest stars in films and TV.


Now from 45 years ago, Saturday September 2, 1978: 

1st show
6:30: Justin Tubb (host); Louie Roberts
6:45: Stonewall Jackson (host); Skeeter Davis
7:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Willis Brothers; Brenda Kay Perry; John Hartford
7:30: Roy Acuff (host); Melba Montgomery; Crook Brothers; Stoney Mountain Cloggers
8:00: Stu Phillips (host); Marion Worth; Bill Carlisle: Leona Williams
8:30: Hank Snow (host); Steve Wariner; Janie Fricke; Fruit Jar Drinkers

2nd show
9:30: Porter Wagoner (host); Willis Brothers; Skeeter Davis
10:00: Stonewall Jackson (host); Brenda Kay Perry
10:15: Roy Acuff (host); Melba Montgomery; Harold Weakley
10:30: Justin Tubb (host); John Hartford
10:45: Bill Carlisle (host); Leona Williams; Crook Brothers; Stoney Mountain Cloggers
11:00: Hank Snow (host); Duke of Paducah; Fruit Jar Drinkers; Kirk McGee
11:30: Stu Phillips (host); Janie Fricke; Steve Wariner

(Del Reeves was scheduled for both shows but cancelled. And as you can tell, it was another pretty thin night for Opry members. It was Labor Day weekend, which was traditionally a big fair weekend and country music was very big at state and county fairs. As a reminder, both Janie Fricke and Steve Wariner were at the very early part of their solo careers). 


Over the history of the Grand Ole Opry, there have been lots of sponsors. Some came and went quickly, while others endured for a long time. One of those sponsors was the Standard Candy Company, the makers of Goo Goo Candy Cluster. The company started in 1912 and the Goo Goo was considered America's first combination candy bar. The candy became an immediate hit. 

What is interesting is that when you read about the history of the company, it states in several places that Standard Candy began advertising on the Grand Ole Opry in 1969. However, I hate to dispute that fact, but in looking at the older Opry programs, Standard Candy, along with the famous Goo Goo theme song, became an Opry sponsor on Saturday September 2, 1967. (It was also a night that featured Tammy Wynette).

Here is the running order from the show that night: 

6:30: Mrs. Grissoms
Stu Phillips (host): Little Old Wine Drinker Me
Tammy Wynette: Your Good Girl's Gonna Go Bad/I Don't Wanna Play House/Apartment #9
Spider Wilson: Instrumental
Stu Phillips: (?)

6:45: Rudy's
Charlie Louvin (host): Off & On
Jeannie Seely: Don't You Ever Get Tired of Hurting Me
Harold Morrison: How Sweet It Is
Charlie Louvin: I Forgot to Cry

7:00: Luzianne
Billy Walker (host): Let's Think About Living
Ray Pillow: I Just Want to Be Alone
Justin Tubb: You Nearly Lose Your Mind
Norma Gail: Love of the Common People
Billy Walker: I Taught Her Everything She Knows
Ernie Ashworth: My Love For You
Norma Gail: Ava Maria
Billy Walker: Cross The Brazos at Waco

7:30: Standard Candy
Roy Acuff (host): Don't Pull That Stuff on Me
Billy Grammer: Browns Ferry Blues
Skeeter Davis: Going Down the Road Feeling Bad
The 4 Guys: Walkin' In The Sunshine
Roy Acuff: I'm So Lonesome I Could Cry
Brother Oswald: Weary, Weary Blues
Billy Grammer, Gene Martin and Jimmy Riddle: 12th Street Rag
Skeeter Davis: What Does It Take

8:00: Martha White
Earl Scruggs (host): Roustabout
Dottie West: Like A Fool
Bobby Lord: Shadows on the Wall
Earl Scruggs: Are You Washed in the Blood
Crook Brothers: Sally Goodin
Cousin Jody: Mockingbird
Diane Dawn: You Ain't Woman Enough
Earl Scruggs: Sunny Side of the Mountain

8:30: Stephens
Wilma Lee and Stoney Cooper (host): Don't Let Your Sweet Love Die
Tex Ritter: Just Beyond the Moon
Marion Worth: I Fall to Pieces
Hank Locklin: Hasta Luego
Wilma Lee and Stoney Cooper: The Birds Are Back to Sing
Del Wood: Cajun Stripper
Tex Ritter: The Working Man's Prayer
Wilma Lee and Stoney Cooper: There's A Big Wheel

9:30: Kellogg's
Hank Snow (host0: In The Misty Moonlight
The 4 Guys: Shenandoah
Charlie Louvin: How Great Thou Art
Jeannie Seely: Everything I Had Going For Me Is Gone
Hank Snow: I Cried A Mile
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Devil's Dream
Charlie Louvin: Drive Me Out of My Mind
Hank Snow: I've Been Everywhere

10:00: Schick
Roy Acuff (host): Ball Knob Arkansas
Del Wood: Down at Papa Joe's
Roy Acuff: The Great Speckled Bird
Larry McNeely: Dixie Breakdown
Roy Acuff: I Saw the Light

10:15: Pure
Billy Grammer (host): Detroit City
Skeeter Davis: The End of the World
Stu Phillips: Little Old Wine Drinker Me
Billy Grammer: Sugarfoot Rag

10:30: Buckley's
Tex Ritter (host): Just Beyond the Moon
Wilma Lee and Stoney Cooper: You're Never Very Far From My Mind
Tex Ritter: Suppertime
Wilma Lee and Stoney Cooper: Big Midnight Special

10:45: Kent
Bobby Lord (host): Life Can Have Meaning
Crook Brothers: Arkansas Traveler
Ernie Ashworth: My Love For You
Bobby Lord: One Day Down & Forever To Go

11:00: Coca Cola
Hank Snow (host): I'm Moving On
Ray Pillow: I Wish That I Could Fall In Love Today
The 4 Guys: Mariah
Fruit Jar Drinkers: The Old Cacklin' Hen
Hank Snow: Snow In Hawaii
Sam McGee: Nine Pound Hammer
Ray Pillow: I'd Fight the World
Hank Snow: Ninety Miles an Hour (Down A Dead-End Street)

11:30: Lava
Hank Locklin (host): Send Me The Pillow You Dream On
Marion Worth: Your Good Girl's Gonna Go Bad
Harold Weakley: Almost Persuaded
Cousin Jody: Wabash Cannonball
Hank Locklin: Release Me
Carl Belew: Am I That Easy to Forget
Marion Worth: All The World is Lonely Now
Hank Locklin: Hast Luego

(Lester Flatt was not on that night as he had become ill on the road several weeks earlier and was still recovering. Also, in the notes, Diane Dawn, who performed earlier in the show, is identified as Dottie West's sister. Justin Tubb, Tammy Wynette and Carl Belew each had only one spot). 

Standard Candy would remain an Opry sponsor until January 28, 2006. I can still hear that jingle in my head: "Go get a Goo Good, it's Good!"

There you have it for this week as we enter the month of September. As always, thanks for reading and commenting and I hope everyone enjoys the Grand Ole Opry this weekend. 












Sunday, August 27, 2023

Mid-Week Opry Shows

Here are the posted lineups for the mid-week Opry shows: 

Tuesday August 29
7:00: Riders In The Sky, Bryan Martin, Mike Snider, Restless Road
Intermission
8:15: Bill Anderson, Thompson Square, Don Schlitz, The Isaacs

Wednesday August 30
7:00: Riders In The Sky, Mandy Barnett, Del McCoury Band, Matthew West
Intermission
8:15: Don Schlitz, Henry Cho, Lady A

Thursday August 31
7:00: Jeannie Seely, Cooper Alan, Mike Snider, Steven Curtis Chapman
Intermission
8:15: Larry Fleet, The Bellamy Brothers, Aaron Weber, Ricky Skaggs

A couple of notes: 

11 Opry members on the 3 shows with Riders In The Sky, Mike Snider and Don Schlitz repeating. 

Lady A is on the schedule for Wednesday night in what will be just their 2nd appearance of the year. 

Bryan Martin is the only artist who will be making their Opry debut this week. Bryan is a native of Louisiana who began singing at an early age, appearing at local festivals and fairs at the age of eight. As a songwriter, his diverse catalog of songs numbers over 3,000 ranging from traditional country and southern rock to outlaw country and country gospel.

Enjoy the shows this week. 

Thursday, August 24, 2023

Grand Ole Opry 8/25 & 8/26

Before posting the lineups and commenting on this week's Grand Ole Opry shows, just a couple of comments from last week: 

As I am sure everyone knows by now, Sara Evans will be the next member of the Grand Ole Opry, with her induction taking place on Saturday October 7 during the Opry's 98th birthday weekend. Just my opinion, but I think Sara is a great choice. She is another of those artists who have appeared on the Opry often during her career and has stated many times that she prayed that someday she would be a member. I think it is safe to say that she snuck through the cracks. Thankfully for Sara, her dream is coming true, and I do believe that she will be a good Opry member. 

Any complaints about Carrie last weekend? I didn't think so. 

Finally, last weekend we saw a couple of Opry debuts, one of those being the legendary Herb Alpert. I have heard and read nothing but positive comments regarding his appearance and how outstanding he was. Herb certainly is not one you would associate with the Opry, but he was so well received that maybe someday he will be invited back for an encore performance. Let's hope. 


Now looking ahead to this weekend as the Opry closes out the last weekend of the month of August with the Friday Night Opry and Saturday's Grand Ole Opry. 

Headlining both nights will be Opry members Vince Gill and Ricky Skaggs. Nice to have Vince back for another weekend after taking last weekend off. Joining the pair on the Friday Night Opry will be members The Whites and Jeannie Seely, while Bill Anderson, Riders In The Sky and Charlie McCoy are on the schedule for Saturday. 

Zach Top, who has been impressive, is guesting on Friday night, along with Deana Carter and Ryan Stevenson. For Ryan, this will be his Opry debut, while Deana seems to be in the discussion when the subject of possible future Opry members comes up. 

The only non-member on the Saturday schedule is comedian Chonda Pierce, who missed her last scheduled Opry appearance. 

Update: MaRynn Taylor added for Saturday night. 

Friday August 25
7:00: Ricky Skaggs, Ryan Stevenson, The Whites, Deana Carter
Intermission
8:15: Jeannie Seely, Zach Top, Vince Gill

Saturday August 26
7:00: Opry Square Dancers, Riders In The Sky, MaRynn Taylor, Charlie McCoy, Ricky Skaggs
Intermission
8:15: Bill Anderson, Opry Square Dancers, Chonda Pierce, Vince Gill

Interesting that there are only seven acts listed for Friday night and just six on Saturday. And once again, Opry Live on Circle TV will not be live this weekend. The show this week will feature Carrie Underwood, Trace Adkins and Matthew West. 

As mentioned, Ryan Stevenson will be making his Opry debut on Friday night. Ryan is a native of the Pacific Northwest. In 2013 he signed with Gotee Records and since then he has been nominated for both Grammy and Billboard Music Awards and has won Dove and ASCAP Christian Music Awards. 

 His list of recordings includes Fresh Start (2015), No Matter What (2018), and Wildest Dreams (2020). He is also known for such radio favorites as “No Matter What” (feat. Bart Millard), “Amadeo (Still My God),” and “When We Fall Apart" (feat. Vince Gill & Amy Grant), Ryan's music has achieved six #1 Billboard charting radio singles.


Now from 45 years ago, Saturday August 26, 1978: 

1st show
6:30: Stonewall Jackson (host); Marion Worth
6:45: Justin Tubb (host); Del Wood; Linda Hargrove
7:00: Billy Grammer (host); Skeeter Davis; Joe Sun
7:30: Roy Acuff (host); Minnie Pearl; Wilma Lee Cooper; Crook Brothers; Tennessee Travelers
8:00: Stu Phillips (host); Lorrie Morgan; David Rogers; Willis Brothers
8:30: Hank Snow (host); The 4 Guys; Fruit Jar Drinkers; Harold Morrison

2nd show
9:30: Justin Tubb (host); Marion Worth; Del Wood; David Rogers
10:00: Stonewall Jackson (host); Skeeter Davis
10:15: Roy Acuff (host); Wilma Lee Cooper; Brother Oswald
10:30: Billy Grammer (host); Joe Sun
10:45: Willis Brothers (host); Linda Hargrove; Crook Brothers; Tennessee Travelers
11:00: Hank Snow (host); The 4 Guys; Fruit Jar Drinkers; Kirk McGee
11:30: Stu Phillips (host); Lorrie Morgan; Harold Morrison

(Minnie Pearl appeared only on the first show. You could also tell it was State and County Fair season as many of the Opry's members were out on the road, finishing up summer). 

One name from that night that doesn't come up all that much was Joe Sun. Joe was known as a honky-tonk singer and his best-known recording was "Old Flames Can't Hold A Candle to You" which he recorded in 1978. While Dolly Parton's recording of the song in 1980 would reach #1 on the charts, Joe's version made it up to #14. 

Born James Joseph Paulsen, he grew up in Rochester, Minnesota and came to Nashville in the early 1970's. He recorded for several different labels and had minor success on the charts. In the 1980s and 90s, he appeared on the WSMV television program "Chili Shack" and also at the Bluebird Cafe. He later moved to Florida where he passed away in 2019 at the age of 76. 


Earlier this year, Grand Ole Opry member Ray Pillow passed away. Ray was an Opry member for over 55 years. It all started for Ray on Saturday August 26, 1961, when he made his first appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. 

Here is the running order from that night 62 years ago: 

7:30: Pet Milk
Roy Acuff (host): Don't Know Why
Bobby Lord: Fascination
Wilburn Brothers: Blue, Blue Day
Melba Montgomery: Send Me the Pillow You Dream On
Carl Butler: Honky Tonkitis
Brother Oswald: She's My Curly Headed Baby
Johnny Rose: (?)
Wilburn Brothers: There'll Never Be Anyone Else but You
Roy Acuff: I'll Fly Away

8:00: Martha White
Flatt & Scruggs (host): Homestead on the Farm
Jimmy Newman: Big Mamou
Maybelle Carter: Wildwood Flower
Del Wood: Blue Eagle
Flatt & Scruggs: Go Home
Bobby Hodge: Carolina Bound
June Carter: Comedy
Crook Brothers: Soldier's Joy
Ray Pillow: (?)
Flatt & Scruggs: Shuckin' the Corn

8:30: Faultless
Marty Robbins (host): Don't Worry
Glaser Brothers: (?)
Archie Campbell: Comedy
Stringbean: Herding Cattle
Marty Robbins: Like All the Other Times
Skeeter Davis: Blueberry Hill
Walter Forbes: Cumberland Mountain Deer Chase
George Hamilton IV: Three Steps to the Phone
Marty Robbins: You Told Me So

9:00: Jefferson Island Salt
Ray Price (host): Heart Over Mind
Louvin Brothers: (?)
Don Gibson: Sea of Heartbreak
Minnie Pearl: Comedy
Ray Price: The 24th Hour
Cousin Jody: Comedy
Margie Bowes: Don't Turn on the Light
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Bill Cheatham
Don Gibson: I Think Its Best
Ray Price: Soft Rain

9:30: Stephens
Cowboy Copas (host): Alabam'
Roy Drusky: I Went Out of My Way
Bill Monroe: A Beautiful Life
Lonzo and Oscar: (?)
Billy Walker: (?)
Loretta Lynn: The Darkest Day
Alex Houston: Introducing Elmer
Bill Monroe: Uncle Pen
Cowboy Copas: Sunny Tennessee
Tommy Varden: Old Joe Clark

10:00: Standard Oil
Roy Acuff (host): Till No Longer You Care
Walter Forbes: Sally Ann
Bobby Hodge: You're Always Welcomed To Cry On My Shoulder
Roy Acuff: Won't It Be Wonderful There
Howdy Forrester and Jimmy Riddle: Jesse Polka

10:15: Rock City
Flatt & Scruggs (host): Polka On A Banjo
Maybelle and Helen Carter: Gold Watch & Chain
Stringbean: Keep My Skillet Good & Greasy
Carl Butler: I Know When I Cry
Flatt & Scruggs: Where Will I Shelter My Sheep

10:30: Rose Dog Food
Marty Robbins (host): Jimmy Martinez
Skeeter Davis: Optimism
Del Wood: Are You From Dixie
Marty Robbins: The Hands You're Holding Now

10:45: De Con
Don Gibson (host): Sea of Heartbreak
Wilburn Brothers: Sparkling Brown Eyes
Bobby Lord: A Rose & A Thorn
Crook Brothers: Eighth of January
Don Gibson: What About Me

11:00: Coca Cola
Ray Price (host): You Done Me Wrong
Jimmy Newman: Big Mamou
Louvin Brothers: (?)
Lonzo and Oscar: (?)
Glaser Brothers: (?)
Ray Price: Heartaches By The Numbers
Old Hickory Singers: In The Little Green Valley
Sam and Kirk McGee: Riding Old Pain; Leading Old Bald
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Katy Hill
Ray Price: Crazy Arms

11:30: National Life
Cowboy Copas (host): Settin' Flat on Ready
Bill Monroe: Wayfaring Stranger
Roy Drusky: I've Got Some
Margie Bowes: Are You Teasing Me
George Hamilton IV: Before This Day Ends
Billy Walker: (?)
Cousin Jody: Comedy
Bill Monroe: Linda Lou
Cowboy Copas: Flat Top

(As was somewhat traditional back in those days, Ray Pillow received only one spot on the show. Same for Archie Campbell, Minnie Pearl, Loretta Lynn and the Old Hickory Singers). 

There you have it for this week. As always, thanks for reading and commenting and I hope everyone enjoys the Grand Ole Opry this weekend. 







Sunday, August 20, 2023

Mid-Week Opry Shows

Here are the posted lineups for the mid-week Opry shows: 

Tuesday August 22
7:00: Dailey & Vincent, Tigirlily Gold, Gene Watson, Warren Zeiders
Intermission
8:15: Bill Anderson, Steve Earle, Chris Janson

Wednesday August 23
7:00: Rhonda Vincent, The Whites, Mandy Barnett, Exile
Intermission
8:15: Jason Crabb, Gene Watson, Trace Adkins

Thursday August 24
7:00: Jeannie Seely, Payton Smith, Mike Snider, T. Graham Brown
Intermission
8:15: Becky Buller, Tyler Rich, Runaway June, Riders In The Sky

A couple of notes: 

11 Opry members on the 3 shows with Gene Watson the only repeat. And speaking of Gene, it is nice to see him back at the Opry for a few more appearances. 

On Wednesday night, Trace Adkins is being recognized upon his 20th year as an Opry member. Overall, I think Trace has been a pretty good member, usually being counted on for 6-10 appearances each year. 

The second hour on Tuesday night looks like a great one with Bill Anderson, Steve Earle and Chris Janson scheduled. 

Riders In The Sky are only scheduled for one show this week. Over the past couple of weeks, they seem to have been on every night. The Opry is getting their money's worth out of the western stars. 

Finally, Exile is on the schedule for Wednesday night, closing out the first half. In a recent interview, where they discussed their 50th anniversary as a group, they mentioned that one of their career goals was to become a member of the Opry. I like Exile and wouldn't have a problem with them being Opry members. However, they really need to make more appearances, if that is their goal. For a few years, they seemed to be on quite a bit, but lately not so much. 

Enjoy the shows. 



Wednesday, August 16, 2023

Grand Ole Opry 8/18 & 8/19

Looking at the Grand Ole Opry schedule for this weekend, there is a lot to cover and review as both nights offer outstanding Opry shows. 

This weekend, there will be two shows each night as Grand Ole Opry member Carrie Underwood returns to the Opry. We can't say it enough how fortunate we are to have Carrie as not only an Opry member, but a member who supports the show. She continues to set the example for her contemporaries, some of whom have forgotten where the Grand Ole Opry House is (600 Opry Mills Drive in case anyone asks). Carrie, as is her custom, will close out the first show, and then close out the first half of the second show. 

In addition to Carrie both nights, Riders In The Sky are also scheduled. Joining those two acts on the Friday Night Opry will be members Connie Smith, comedian Henry Cho, and Dustin Lynch. Five solid Opry members. 

Saturday night will see Jeannie Seely and Charlie McCoy joining Carrie and the Riders. 

In looking at the non-members scheduled, there are two names that should spark a lot of interest as neither is really associated with country music, but I can actually see them fitting in at the Opry. Herb Alpert will be guesting on Friday night, while Barry Williams will be appearing on Saturday. 

Herb has done it all. He is known as a creator and innovator, musician and producer, artist, and philanthropist. During his career, which is still going strong at the age of 88 (yes, 88!!), he has recorded 28 albums that have reached the Billboard charts, five of which hit #1, along with 14 platinum and 15 gold albums. He is the only musician to have hit No. 1 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 as both a vocalist ("This Guy's in Love with You", 1968) and an instrumentalist ("Rise", 1979). And he was also the co-founder of A&M Records. In total, he has sold 72 million records. His new album, Wish Upon A Star, will be released on September 15 and will feature the great Jerry Reed song, "East Bound And Down."

We all know Barry Williams as Greg Brady on The Brady Bunch, in addition to appearing on dozens of other television shows. But he also has a musical background as he hosted a successful 6 year run of the 70s MUSIC CELEBRATION! in Branson, Mo. He has recorded several albums along with writing and co-producing several USO Christmas shows. I do wonder if he will also appear as Johnny Bravo!!

There will be a third artist making her Opry debut this weekend as Jenna Paulette is scheduled for Friday night. Jenna was a member of CMT's Next Women of Country Class in 2022. Jenna arrived in Nashville in 2015 and has written or co-written a number of songs. Her most recent single is "Anywhere the Wind Blows." 

Herb Alpert and Jenna Paulette are on the Friday schedule, while Barry Williams, joined by Chrissy Metz, Jamie O'Neal and Sister Sadie are scheduled for Saturday night. 

Friday August 18
1st show
7:00: Riders In The Sky, Jenna Paulette, Connie Smith, Herb Alpert
8:00: Henry Cho, Dustin Lynch, Carrie Underwood

2nd show
9:30: Riders In The Sky, Connie Smith, Carrie Underwood
10:30: Herb Alpert, Henry Cho, Jenna Paulette, Dustin Lynch

Saturday August 19
1st show
7:00: Opry Square Dancers, Jeannie Seely, Sister Sadie, Jamie O'Neal, Charlie McCoy
8:00: Chrissy Metz, Barry Williams, Opry Square Dancers, Riders In The Sky, Carrie Underwood

2nd show
9:30: Opry Square Dancers, Jeannie Seely, Sister Sadie, Carrie Underwood
10:30: Charlie McCoy, Barry Williams, Chrissy Metz, Opry Square Dancers, Jamie O'Neal, Riders In The Sky

(Sorry to say that there is no Vince this weekend)

Once again, Opry Live on Circle TV will not be live this week, showing a pre-recorded show featuring future Opry member Jon Pardi (induction date October 24), The War and Treaty, and "more." 


From 45 years ago, Saturday August 19, 1978: 

1st show
6:30: Billy Grammer (host); Del Wood
6:45: Bill Monroe (host); Wilma Lee Cooper, Willis Brothers
7:00: Porter Wagoner (host); George Hamilton IV, George Jones, Lonzo and Oscar
7:30: Roy Acuff (host); Stonewall Jackson, Stu Phillips, Crook Brothers
8:00: Lester Flatt (host) w/Marty Stuart; Roy Drusky, Marion Worth, Don King, Bill Carlisle, Pete Corum
8:30: Hank Snow (host); The 4 Guys, Janie Fricke, Fruit Jar Drinkers

2nd show
9:30: Bill Monroe (host); George Jones, Wilma Lee Cooper, Lonzo and Oscar, Del Wood
10:00: Porter Wagoner (host), Billy Grammer, Willis Brothers
10:15: Roy Acuff (host); George Hamilton IV, Stu Phillips, Brother Oswald
10:30: Lester Flatt (host); Stonewall Jackson, Bill Carlisle, Blake Williams
10:45: Roy Drusky (host); Janie Fricke, Crook Brothers
11:00: Hank Snow (host); Don King, Fruit Jar Drinkers, The 4 Guys, Kirk McGee
11:30: Marty Robbins (host); Marion Worth, Ronnie Robbins

As you will notice, George Jones was on the Opry that night. For George, that was his first Saturday night Opry appearance since December 7, 1974. 

In honor of George taking the time out of his busy schedule to be at the Opry, here is the running order from that night: 

1st show
6:30: Mrs. Grissoms
Billy Grammer (host): Lonesome Road Blues
Del Wood: Down at Papa Joe's
Billy Grammer: Detroit City

6:45: Rudy's
Bill Monroe (host): My Florida Sunshine
Wilma Lee Cooper: He Will Set Your Fields on Fire
Willis Brothers: Boots & Saddle
Bill Monroe: Careless Love

7:00: Shoney's
Porter Wagoner (host): Ole Slewfoot
George Hamilton IV: Abilene
George Jones: Bartender's Blues/The Race is On
Lonzo and Oscar: Fox on the Run
Porter Wagoner: Cold Hard Facts of Life/Carroll County Accident/Green Green Grass of Home/On A Highway Headed South

7:30: Standard Candy
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball/Tennessee Central No 9/Sunshine Special
Stonewall Jackson: Don't Be Angry/Muddy Water
Stu Phillips: Thank God She's Mine
Crook Brothers: Eighth of January
Roy Acuff: End of Memory Lane/Gone Away

8:00: Martha White
Lester Flaa (host) w/Marty Stuart: Great Big Woman & A Little Bitty Bottle of Wind
Roy Drusky: Hang Your Head in Shame/Second Hand Rose
Marion Worth: For The Good Times
Don King: Don't Make No Promises You Can't Keep
Bill Carlisle: No Help Wanted
Pete Corum: My Little Georgia Rose

8:30: Stephens
Hank Snow (host): I'm Moving On
The 4 Guys: When Will I Be Loved/You Made it Right.
Janie Fricke: Please Help Me, I'm Falling/Baby, It's You
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Cacklin' Hen
Hank Snow: Ramblin' Rose

2nd show
9:30: Kellogg's
Bill Monroe (host): White House Blues
George Jones: I'll Just Take It Out In Love/White Lightening
Wilma Lee Cooper: He Will Set Your Fields on Fire
Lonzo and Oscar: I'm My Own Grandpa
Del Wood: There's A Big Wheel
Bill Monroe: My Louisiana Love

10:00: Fender
Porter Wagoner (host): Ole Slewfoot
Billy Grammer: Rose of Old Pawnee
Willis Brothers: Chattanooga Shoeshine Boy
Porter Wagoner: Big Winds 'A Comin'

10:15: Union 76
Roy Acuff (host): Meeting In The Air
George Hamilton IV: Feel Like A Million
Stu Phillips: Have I Told You Lately That I Love You/You Win Again/Release Me
Brother Oswald: Mountain Dew
Roy Acuff: The Great Speckled Bird

10:30: Trailblazer
Lester Flatt (host): Salty Dog Blues
Stonewall Jackson: A Wound Time Can't Erase
Bill Carlisle: Same Ol' Tale That The Crow Told Me
Blake Williams: Shuckin' The Corn

10:45: Beechnut
Roy Drusky (host): Peel Me A Nanner
Janie Fricke: Please Help Me, I'm Falling
Crook Brothers: Black Mountain Rag
Roy Drusky: Just A Closer Walk with Thee

11:00: Coca Cola
Hank Snow (host): Hello, Love
Don King: Don't Make No Promises You Can't Keep
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Nubbing Ridge
The 4 Guys: Love, Love, Love/Turn Around Look At Me
Kirk McGee: While I'm Away
Hank Snow: Nevertheless, I'm In Love with You

11:30: Acme
Marty Robbins (host): Singing The Blues
Marion Worth: Just A Little Lovin'/For The Good Times
Ronnie Robbins: Good Hearted Woman/The 1st Lie I Told Her
Marty Robbins: A White Sport Coat/Love Me/Don't Worry/My Woman; My Woman; My Wife/El Paso

There you have it for this week. As always, thanks for reading and commenting and I hope everyone enjoys the Grand Ole Opry, and Carrie Underwood, this weekend. Both nights promise to be outstanding. 








Sunday, August 13, 2023

Mid-Week Opry Shows

Here are the posted lineups for the mid-week Opry shows: 

Tuesday August 15
7:00: Riders In The Sky, Avery Anna, John Conlee, Dillon Carmichael
Intermission
8:15: Cayle Hammack, Killer Beaz, Breland, Charlie McCoy

Wednesday August 16
Riders In The Sky, John Schneider, The Arcadian Wild, Maggie Rose
Intermission
8:15: Mandy Barnett, Del McCoury Band, John Berry, Rhonda Vincent

Thursday August 17
7:00: Jeannie Seely, Shelly Fairchild, Mike Snider, Ricochet
Intermission
8:15: The Whites, John Baldwin, Eddie Montgomery, The Cleverlys

A couple of notes: 

Nice to see 10 Grand Ole Opry members scheduled for the mid-week shows including Jeannie Seely, who missed all of the shows last week, and last weekend, due to illness. 

Shenandoah was originally scheduled to close out the Wednesday night show but is now off the schedule. John Berry was added in their place. 

The Arcadian Wild and John Baldwin will be making their Opry debuts. 

Nice to see Opry member Eddie Montgomery on the schedule. This will be only his 2nd Opry appearance this year. 








Thursday, August 10, 2023

Grand Ole Opry 8/11 & 8/12

What have we done to deserve this? Once again, Vince Gill is on the Grand Ole Opry schedule this weekend as he will be closing out both the Friday Night Opry and Saturday's Grand Ole Opry. We all know it is just a matter of time (actually beginning the first of September), when Vince will be back touring with the Eagles, which will pretty much take him through the end of November. In December, Vince will be back at the Ryman Auditorium with Amy Grant, for a number of Christmas shows, which the couple has done on an annual basis. Time is running short and so let's enjoy Vince while we can.

Joining Vince both nights will be the Opry's newest member, comedian Gary Mule Deer. As promised when he joined the cast, Gary has been a pretty regular performer on the show. 

Joining those two on the Friday Night Opry will be Dailey & Vincent, Crystal Gayle and Mandy Barnett. Saturday night has Riders In The Sky, Mike Snider and a pair of Hall of Fame members, Bill Anderson and Connie Smith listed. 

Only one artist will be making his Opry debut and that will be Nat Myers, who is scheduled for Friday night. Joining Nat will be Lindsay Ell and Billy Ray Cyrus & FIREROSE. Saturday night's guests are Time Jumpers member Wendy Moten and Tyler Braden. 

Friday August 11
7:00: Dailey & Vincent, Lindsay Ell, Nat Myers, Crystal Gayle
Intermission
8:15: Mandy Barnett, Gary Mule Deer, Billy Ray Cyrus & FIREROSE, Vince Gill

Saturday August 12
7:00: Opry Square Dancers, Riders In The Sky, Tyler Braden, Mike Snider, Connie Smith
Intermission
8:15: Bill Anderson, Opry Square Dancers, Gary Mule Deer, Wendy Moten, Vince Gill

That all comes out to 9 different Opry members this weekend. 

I did want to add that Jeannie Seely was originally on the Friday Night Opry schedule, but she was taken off is she is still resting her voice. Mandy took her spot. 

No live TV again this week as Opry Live on Circle TV will feature a previously taped show featuring Vince Gill, Lukas Nelson and Megan Moroney. 


Now from 45 years ago, Saturday August 12, 1978: 

1st show
6:30: Willis Brothers (host); Leona Williams
6:45: Billy Grammer (host); Louie Roberts
7:00: Jimmy C Newman (host); O.B. McClinton, Steve Wariner, Harold Morrison
7:30: Roy Acuff (host); Wilma Lee Cooper, Crook Brothers, Tennessee Travelers, Brother Oswald
8:00: Ernest Tubb (host); Bill Carlisle; Duke of Paducah, Rusty Adams, Lorrie Morgan
8:30: The 4 Guys (host); Stu Phillips, Pinnacle Boys, Fruit Jar Drinkers

2nd show
9:30: Billy Grammer (host); Harold Morrison, Leona Williams
10:00: Ernest Tubb (host); Willis Brothers
10:15: Roy Acuff (host); Wilma Lee Cooper, Woody Paul
10:30: Jimmy C Newman (host); Louie Roberts, O.B. McClinton
10:45: Bill Carlisle (host); Steve Wariner, Crook Brothers, Tennessee Travelers
11:00: The 4 Guys (host); Fruit Jar Drinkers, Lorrie Morgan, Kirk McGee
11:30: Stu Phillips (host); Duke of Paducah, Pinnacle Boys

(Ernie Ashworth was scheduled for both shows but cancelled. Obviously a pretty thin night for Opry members. Among the non-members that night was O.B. McClinton, Leona Williams, Louie Roberts and the Pinnacle Boys. Also, there was a former member (Duke of Paducah) and two future Opry members (Steve Wariner and Lorrie Morgan)).

For those wondering, the Pinnacle Boys were based out of Knoxville, Tennessee and along with the Knoxville Grass, were considered one of the best of the bluegrass bands that came out of that part of Tennessee in the 1970s. The band had an ever-changing lineup, which was typical of many bluegrass bands, but at their highpoint, the band was led by Bud Brewster, one of two Brewster Brothers who had backed up country legend Carl Story. The group had recorded several bluegrass albums. In the mid-70s, the group recorded an album for Rounder Records, with an attempt to move into more mainstream country, however the record failed to create any excitement and the group faded away.



Finally, going way back, here is the running order from 62 years ago, Saturday August 12, 1961: 

7:30: Pet Milk
Roy Acuff: Little Mary
Billy Grammer: Gotta Travel On
Louvin Brothers: I Can't Keep You In Love with Me
Melba Montgomery: Are You Teasing Me
Dick Flood: Cowpoke
Tommy Jackson: Back Up & Push
Brother Oswald: Columbus Stockade Blues
Del Wood: Are You From Dixie
Roy Acuff: Wait For The Light To Shine

8:00: Martha White
Cowboy Copas: Filipino Baby
Jim and Jesse: Are You Missing Me
Wilburn Brothers: Which One Is To Blame
Patsy Cline: I Fall To Pieces
Cowboy Copas: Alabam
The Carter Family: Wildwood Flower
Jim and Jesse: Half Hearted
Crook Brothers: Lost Indian
Wilburn Brothers: Legend of The Big River Train
Cowboy Copas: Don't Shake Hands with The Devil

8:30: Faultless Starch
Don Gibson: Sea of Heartache
Bill Anderson: Po' Folks
Archie Campbell: Comedy
Jan Howard: Carless Hands
Don Gibson: The World Is Waiting For The Sunrise
Jordanaires: Ain't Gonna Study War No More
Bobby Hodges: Carolina Bound
Instrumental: Sally Goodin
Don Gibson: Oh, Lonesome Me

9:00: Jefferson Island Salt
Jim Reeves: Stand At Your Window
Walter Forbes: (?)
Tompall and The Glaser Brothers: Words Come Easy
Stringbean: Pretty Polly
Jim Reeves: It's Nothing To Me
Cousin Jody: Lady Cop
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Bile Them Cabbage Down
Jim Reeves: What Would You Do
Blue Boys: Alabama Jubilee

9:30: Stephens
Roy Drusky: I've Got Some
Bill Carlisle: Have A Drink On Me
Johnny Seay: Wayward Wind
Rusty Adams: (?)
Roy Drusky: I Went Out of My Way
Loretta Lynn: The Darkest Day
Wes Holly: Remember Me
Bill Carlisle: Little Liza Jane
Roy Drusky: Anymore

10:00: Standard Oil
Billy Grammer: Wabash Cannonball
Louvin Brothers: I Love You Best of All
Del Wood: Down Yonder
Billy Grammer: Finger/Billy's Polka

10:15: Rock City
Wilburn Brothers: Blue, Blue Day
Bill Anderson: Po' Folks
Archie Campbell: Grab A Little Sunshine
Wilburn Brothers: Knoxville Girl

10:30: Roses Dog Food
Roy Acuff: 'Til No Longer You Care
Cowboy Copas: Flat Top
Brother Oswald: Black Smoke's a 'Rollin
Roy Acuff: I'll Fly Away
Howdy Forrester and Jimmy Riddle: Jesse Polka

10:45: De Con
Don Gibson: Sea of Heartbreak
Jim and Jesse: Gosh, I Miss You All The Time
Patsy Cline: Loose Talk
Crook Brothers: Ragtime Annie
Don Gibson: Oh, Lonesome Me

11:00: Coca Cola
Jim Reeves: Your Old Love Letters
Walter Forbes: (?)
Wes Holly: Shotgun Boogie
Cousin Jody: Don't Make Love In A Buggy
Jim Reeves: Waltz Melody
Jordanaires: How Great Thou Art
Sam and Kirk McGee: Y'all Come
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Dance All Night
Jim Reeves: Am I Losing You
Blue Boys: Wheels

11:30: National Life
Roy Drusky: I Went Out of My Way
Bill Carlisle: Have A Drink On Me
Dick Flood: Jambalaya
Tompall and The Glaser Brothers: Ballad of Kitty Wells
Roy Drusky: Another
Johnny Seay: Keep My Skillet Good & Greasy
Bobby Hodge: You're Always Welcome To Cry On My Shoulder
Roy Drusky: I've Got Some

Any complaints? 

There you have it for this week. As always, thanks for reading and commenting and I hope everyone enjoys the Grand Ole Opry this weekend. 








Sunday, August 6, 2023

Mid-Week Opry Shows

Here are the posted lineups for the upcoming mid-week Opry show: 

Tuesday August 8
7:00: Jeannie Seely, Chase Matthew, Julia Cole, Sanctus Reel
Intermission
8:15: John Conlee, Gary Mule Deer, Dean Dillon, Dailey & Vincent

Wednesday August 9
7:00: Jeannie Seely, Katie Offerman, The Kody Norris Show, Charles Esten
Intermission
8:15: Mandy Barnett, Gary Mule Deer, Eric Paslay, Riders In The Sky

Thursday August 10
7:00: Rhonda Vincent, Riders In The Sky, Jameson Rodgers, Dom Flemons
Intermission
8:15: Andy Hedges, Tenille Towns, Gary Mule Deer, Russell Dickerson

A couple of notes: 

Another nice group of Grand Ole Opry members for the mid-week shows: Jeannie Seely, John Conlee, Gary Mule Deer, Dailey & Vincent, Mandy Barnett, Riders In The Sky and Rhonda Vincent. 7 in total making 11 appearances. 

Rhonda Vincent last weekend cancelled all of her appearances due to illness. Here is hoping that she is feeling better and will be back for the Thursday Night Opry. 

Among those guesting this week include the very popular Dom Flemons, "Nashville" star Charles Esten, Hall of Fame songwriter Dean Dillion, and a couple of artists making their Opry debuts: Sanctus Real, The Kody Norris Show and Andy Hedges. 

For those not familiar with The Kody Norris Show, who will be making their Opry debut on Wednesday Night, they are the SPBGMA Entertainers of the Year. The group, which is currently setting the world of bluegrass on fire, consists of frontman Kody Norris, Josiah Tyree, Mary Rachel Nalley-Norris, and Charlie Lowman

Their success includes 2017’s When I Get the Money Made, which was named Bluegrass Album of the Year by the National Traditional Country Music Association. The Kody Norris Show followed it up with 2019’s All Suited Up, which debuted at #7 on the Billboard charts. Now playing over 100 dates a year across the country and around the world, The Kody Norris Show have been part of the University of Chicago Folk Festival and are part of two weekly programs on the acclaimed RFD-TV's network, The Cumberland Highlanders Show and The Bluegrass Trail. Their current release, Rhinestone Revival, has helped the band achieve even greater success. 

Three very nice shows again this week. 



Wednesday, August 2, 2023

Grand Ole Opry 8/4 & 8/5

The Grand Ole Opry continues to offer up special moments. Last Saturday night, Craig Morgan reenlisted to serve in the Army. Here is the story as reported by NBC news: 

Country music star Craig Morgan had decided to step away from the military after more than 17 years of service, including nearly a decade on active duty.  But fans in the historic halls of the Grand Ole Opry on Saturday night were in for an unprecedented surprise, when Morgan, 59, was sworn in as a warrant officer with the U.S. Army Reserves — becoming the first person to commission at the home of country music — Nashville, Tennessee.

“I feel like an 18-year-old kid, I can tell you,” Morgan said in an interview with NBC News ahead of the ceremony. “I’m excited, nervous. But humbled. I’m humbled for the opportunity.”

One year ago, after Morgan performed at a military fundraiser, he had told Sen. Marsha Blackburn, R-Tenn., that leaving the military early was his “biggest regret.”

“As a, you know, throwaway comment I said, ‘I’d love to finish my commitment — that’s a 20-year commitment to our country, and I want to finish that,’” Morgan recalled of their conversation. Soon after, Blackburn’s team connected Morgan with officials from the Department of Defense. 

Amid projected shortfalls across several military branches, Morgan’s personal ambitions fell secondary to the main reason he decided to serve again. “I feel like if a guy like me, who has the career that I do, can go in and participate … anybody can do it,” he said Friday while on a tour bus in Britt, Iowa.

Morgan, who grew up poor, said the military opened doors for him: “If you join the military, you’re going to be afforded opportunities and situations for you to enhance and grow your life that you can’t get in the civilian populace.” 

In front of the American flag on stage where he swore in Morgan, commander of Army Forces Command, Gen. Andrew Poppas, said: “Every soldier who enters the Army has the opportunity to become the best version of themselves, and Staff Sgt. Morgan is no exception.” 

Poppas added that he looks “forward to seeing what he [Morgan] accomplishes and how he impacts other soldiers around the Army.”

Morgan will be assigned to Redstone Arsenal in Alabama, where he will be stationed two days out of every month. The musician is currently on his God, Family Country tour across the country.

“Haven’t sung in uniform in a long time,” he said, performing his hit "Soldier" for the roaring crowd.

Craig Morgan will be back at the Grand Ole Opry on Saturday night, along with Opry members Mark Wills, Connie Smith and once again, Vince Gill. For Vince, who is on his way to making more Opry appearances than any other year in his career, this will be his 20th appearance of 2023. 

Mark Wills and Connie Smith will also be on the Friday Night Opry, along with Mike Snider and Charlie McCoy

King Calaway, Waylon Payne, and Appalachian Road Show will be guesting on Friday, while Alex Hall and Darin & Brooke Aldridge are on the Saturday schedule. 

There are two acts who will be making their Opry debuts this weekend: Abbey Cone on the Friday Night Opry and Wood Box Heroes on Saturday. 

Friday August 4
7:00: Mark Wills, Connie Smith, Mike Snider, King Calaway
Intermission
8:15: Waylon Payne, Appalachian Road Show, Abbey Cone, Charlie McCoy

Saturday August 5
7:00: Opry Square Dancers, Mark Wills, Darin & Brooke Aldridge, Connie Smith, Wood Box Heroes
Intermission
8:15: Alex Hall, Opry Square Dancers, Craig Morgan, Vince Gill 

Once again, there is no live TV on Circle television. Opry Live this week will air the salute to Merle Haggard, featuring Clint Black, Cody Johnson, Lainey Wilson and Marty Haggard. 

As mentioned, Abbey Cone and Wood Box Heroes are making their Opry debuts this weekend.

Abbey Cone is known for her emotionally resonant songwriting that connects with the next generation (and beyond) of country listeners. With an induction into CMT’s Next Women of Country Class of 2020 and named one of Pandora’s 10 Country Artists To Watch in 2022, she has already made her mark, co-writing with some of Nashville's best-known songwriters. She recently made her debut on main stages at Stagecoach and CMA Fest, and has toured with Tanya Tucker, Brittney Spencer, Abby Anderson, and the CMT Next Women of Country Tour with Maddie & Tae and Sacha. This spring, she shared "If You Were A Song," her first single as an independent artist, and is expected to release more new music in 2023. 

Wood Box Heroes is a newly formed American acoustic super-group. Deeply rooted in tradition while melding together an eclectic-array of sounds from the country, bluegrass, blues, jazz, rock, and classical varieties, paired with crafty and authentic songwriting, the band delivers a piercing listening experience that plunges deep into the caverns of the soul. Bringing together some of the world’s most highly lauded musicians in Matt Menefee (banjo-Mumford & Sons, Cadillac Sky, Warren Haynes), Seth Taylor (mandolin-Mountain Heart, Dailey & Vincent) and Barry Bales (bass Alison Krauss & Union Station) backing up the vocal magic of Jenee Fleenor (fiddle-Blake Shelton, Larry Cordle) and Josh Martin (singer/songwriter/guitarist), this unit has over a century of musical seasoning between them. Yet, it is quite astonishing that the years spent on separate roads, accompanying a spectrum of incredible artists and receiving some of the most sought-after honors and awards in the business, has led to this enigmatic musical intersection.


Now from 45 years ago, Saturday August 5, 1978. The first show that night featured a guest appearance by Merle Haggard: 

1st show
6:30: Wilburn Brothers (host); Wilma Lee Cooper
6:45: Charlie Walker (host); Willis Brothers
7:00: Bill Monroe (host); Billy Grammer, Harold Morrison, Del Wood
7:30: Roy Acuff (host); Minnie Pearl, Crook Brothers, Merle Haggard
8:00: Charlie Louvin (host); Stu Phillips, Lorrie Morgan, Bill Carlisle
8:30: Jimmy C Newman (host); The 4 Guys, Linda Hargrove, Fruit Jar Drinkers

2nd show
9:30: Bill Monroe (host); Charlie Walker, Wilma Lee Cooper, Willis Brothers, Del Wood
10:00: Wilburn Brothers (host); Judy Robbins
10:15: Roy Acuff (host); Minnie Pearl
10:30: Billy Grammer (host); Harold Morrison
10:45: Charlie Louvin (host); Brenda Clark, Bill Carlisle, Crook Brothers
11:00: Jimmy C Newman (host); The 4 Guys, Fruit Jar Drinkers, Sam McGee
11:30: Stu Phillips (host); Linda Hargrove, Louie Robers

(Ernie Ashworth was scheduled to appear on both shows but cancelled)



Grand Ole Opry member Terri Clark was born on August 6, 1968. She, along with Hank Snow and Stu Phillips, is the only Grand Ole Opry member to have been born in Canada. Terri joined the Grand Ole Opry on June 12, 2004. 

In honor of Terri Clark's 53rd birthday, here is the running order from 19 years ago, Saturday June 12, 2004, the night Terri became a member of the Grand Ole Opry

1st show
6:30: Tennessee Pride
Jimmy Dickens (host): Take an Old Cold Tater
Jeannie Seely: Anytime/When He Leaves You
Osborne Brothers: Rock of Ages/Rocky Top
Jimmy Dickens: Mountain Dew

7:00: Tootsie's/Standard Candy
Marty Stuart (host): Rock Island Line
Terri Clark: Girls Lie Too
Mel Tillis: It's A Love Revival/Southern Rain
Mel and Pam Tillis: Waiting On The Wind
Billy Dean: Billy The Kid
Terri Clark: I Wanna Do It All
Marty Stuart: Hillbilly Rock

8:00: Martha White
Mike Snider (host): (?)
Jean Shepard: Tennessee Waltz
Billy Walker: Don't Stop In My World
Connie Smith: If It Ain't Love
Hoot Hester: Bile Them Cabbage Down
Mike Snider: The Fur Coat/Fire On The Mountain

8:30: Caribbean Cruise
Bill Anderson (host): Don't She Look Good
George Hamilton IV & V: We Will Meet Again
Jimmy C Newman: La Cajun Band
Pam Tillis: Deep Down/Mi Vida Loco
Bill Anderson: Deck of Cards

2nd show
9:30: Coca Cola
Jimmy Dickens (host): Sleepin' At The Foot of The Bed
Jim Ed Brown: Looking Back To See/The 3 Bells
Billy Dean: Thank God I'm A Country Boy/Billy The Kid
Jimmy Dickens: I'd Rather Sleep In Peace

10:00: Resort Quest
Pam Tillis (host): Bend In The Window
Jean Shepard: Virginia (You Have Taken My Man)/Second Fiddle
Mel Tillis: Good Woman Blues/I Got The Horse/You Got The Saddle
The Stutterettes: Once A Day/I Fall To Pieces/You Ain't Woman Enough/Stand By Your Man
Pam and Mel Tillis: Detroit City

10:30: Caribbean Cruise
Marty Stuart (host): The Whiskey Ain't Working Anymore
Hank Locklin: Please Help Me I'm Falling
Connie Smith: How Long, How Long/You and Your Sweet Love
Hoot Hester: Cherokee Shuffle
Marty Stuart: In The Pines

11:00: WSM Online.com
Bill Anderson (host): I Love You Drops
George Hamilton IV & V: We Will Meet Again
Jimmy C Newman: Sugar Bee
Terri Clark: Girls Lie Too/Walkin' After Midnight
Bill Anderson: Too Country

11:30: Opry Visa Card
Mike Snider (host): Angeline The Baker/Soldier's Joy/Old Molly Hare
Billy Walker: I'm Back On The Mountain Again
Jack Greene: Walkin' on New Grass
Julie Roberts: It Ain't Down Home/Break Down Here
Mike Snider: Fire On The Mountain

There you have it for this week. As always, I thank everyone for reading and commenting and I hope everyone enjoys the Grand Ole Opry this weekend. 








Tuesday, August 1, 2023

August Opry Highlights

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

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

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

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

August 28, 1925: The great guitarist Billy Grammer was born in Benton, Illinois. Billy joined the Opry in 1959 and was as well known for his guitar playing as he was for his singing. His career song was "Gotta Travel On." Billy remained a member of the Opry until his death in August 2011, after spending more than 50 years as an Opry member. Billy also gave the invocation on the night that the new Grand Ole Opry House opened in March 1974. 

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

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

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

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

August 14, 1941: Constance June Meador was born in Elkhart, Indiana. Better known as Connie Smith, she joined the Grand Ole Opry in 1965, left for a few years, then returned for good. In 2015 she celebrated 50 years as a member of the Opry. At the age of 82, and who can even believe that Connie sounds as good as ever and continues to appear regularly on the Opry. Not only does she continue to perform on the Opry, but she has also recently released a new album and still travels on the road, doing dates. 

August 11, 1946: Grand Ole Opry member John Conlee was born in Versailles, Kentucky. John, who has one of the unique voices in country music, joined the Opry in 1981 and remains a very active member of the cast. At the age of 77, John continues to tour and make new music.

August 11, 1952: Hank Williams was fired as a member of the Grand Ole Opry by Opry manager Jim Denny. Hank was fired because it was determined that his behavior and personal habits were detrimental to the Opry, and country music in general. Hank was very upset and disappointed at being fired and had hoped that one day he could return as an Opry member. However, Hank passed away and his Opry return never took place. While there are those who believe that Hank should be reinstated as an Opry member, it should be noted that only living individuals are considered as members, however Hank is recognized on the Opry's membership wall located backstage at the Opry House.

August 16, 1952: Grandpa Jones, who had left Nashville for a short period of time, rejoined the cast of the Opry. Grandpa had first joined the show in the 1940s and when he came back, he stayed with the Opry until his death in 1998. Can it really be over 20 years since Grandpa passed away? Fortunately, we have the old Hee Haw shows that air on Circle TV to help us remember how funny and talented Grandpa was. 

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

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

August 28, 1954: Stringbean, or "String Beans" as he was referred to during this period of time, left the cast of the Grand Ole Opry to join the Ramblin' Tommy Scott Show. He was gone for just a short period of time and returned to the Opry, where he would remain until his death in November 1973. Over the years, Stringbean's talents, especially his musical skills, have really become underappreciated. Of note: when Stringbean wanted to return to the Opry management hesitated and it was Roy Acuff that stepped in and insisted that Stringbean return as a member. 

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

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

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

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

August 8, 1959: Jim Reeves rejoined the cast of the Grand Ole Opry. Jim first joined the Opry in 1955. He had left the show a year earlier because of the demands on his career. While Jim did return, it wouldn't be for long. 

August 27, 1960: The Louisiana Hayride took place for the final time. Once considered a rival to the Opry, it would become more famous as being a "farm system" for new Opry members. As the recording industry became more established in Nashville, most of the Hayride's members left Shreveport and moved to music city, thus making it difficult for the Hayride to continue.

August 27, 1960: On the same night that the Louisiana Hayride took place for the final time, future Grand Ole Opry member Johnny Russell made his first guest appearance on the Opry. 

August 26, 1961: Future Grand Ole Opry member Ray Pillow made his debut on the Opry. Ray made a great impression and was invited back for more appearances, which eventually led to Ray becoming an Opry member in April 1966, 57 years ago. Sadly, after a short retirement, Ray passed away earlier this year. 

August 10, 1963: Jim Ed, Maxine and Bonnie, known collectively as The Browns, became members of the Grand Ole Opry. While Maxine and Bonnie left the act in 1967 due to family considerations, Jim Ed continued on as a solo member. Over the years, Maxine and Bonnie would return for guest appearances and it was always a special treat when they did. Jim Ed was an Opry member for over 50 years, before passing away in 2015. Bonnie passed away in 2016, while Maxine passed away in 2019.

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

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

August 7, 1964: The Friday Night Frolics, which was still taking place at the WSM studio, moved to the Ryman Auditorium and was renamed the Friday Night Opry. Even with the move, it was still considered a secondary show in comparison to the Saturday night Opry. Now, there doesn't seem to be much difference between any of the Opry shows. 

August 8, 1964: The Osborne Brothers, Bobby and Sonny, became members of the Grand Ole Opry. While both are still considered members of the Grand Ole Opry, Sonny retired from performing in 2005, at which time Bobby continued with his own group, The Rocky Top X-Press. On this same date, Dottie West became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Dottie, who was finally elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame this past year, passed away in September 1991. After Sonny passed away in 2021, Bobby Osborne continued as a solo member of the Opry, with his band The Rocky Top Ex-Press. Bobby passed away suddenly last month. 

August 14, 1965: Bobby Bare became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Bobby stayed as an Opry member until March 1974, when he quit the cast as the show moved to the new Grand Ole Opry House. 43 years later, on April 7, 2018, Bobby had his Opry membership reinstated, a move that was well received by everyone at the Opry. Bobby hasn't appeared on the Opry in several years and I know all of us wish him well. 

August 21, 1965: After changing the date several different times, this seems to be the date that the Opry recognizes as to when Connie Smith became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Originally the Opry listed the date as in June, then switched to the August date. What is interesting in either case is that Connie did not appear on the Opry on this date, but actually first appeared as on Opry member a month later, in September. Regardless, this will be Connie's 58th year as an Opry member. Also, Bob Luman joined the Opry on the same date as Connie.

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

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

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

August 31, 1968: Jeannie C. Riley made her first appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. While never becoming an Opry member, Jeannie would make several Opry appearances during that period, and was a very popular guest at the Opry. 

August 9, 1969: Grand Ole Opry member Norma Jean performed on the Opry for the final time as a member. Norma joined the Opry's cast as a member of Porter Wagoner's group. However, after Norma Jean left Porter's show and Porter hired Dolly Parton, Norma Jean left Nashville and moved back to her native Oklahoma. While not often, Norma Jean did make several appearances on the Opry later in her career. This was also the night that Buckley's Record Shop, a fixture on Broadway in Nashville, hosted an Opry segment for the final time. Martha White brand Trailblazer Dog Food would take over the 10:30 segment the following week. 

August 23, 1969: Audrey Williams, the former wife of the late Hank Williams, made a guest appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. 

August 16, 1969: Trailblazer Dog Food, produced by Martha White, became the new 10:30 sponsor on the Grand Ole Opry, replacing Buckley's Record Shop. 

August 30, 1969: Crystal Gayle made her debut on the Grand Ole Opry. Crystal sang "Ribbon of Darkness" during her debut. Eventually Crystal would become a member of the Opry, many years later. 

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

August 8, 1975: Lester Flatt returned to the Grand Ole Opry for the first time since having heart surgery the previous month. While the surgery would be successful and Lester was able to continue his career, he continued to have health issues until he passed away. 

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

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

August 21, 1976: Future Grand Ole Opry member Charlie Daniels made his Grand Ole Opry debut. It would take several decades until Charlie fulfilled a lifelong dream to become an Opry member. 

August 28, 1976: Jimmy C Newman was honored upon his 20th anniversary as a member of the Grand Ole Opry. 

August 5, 1978: The legendary Merle Haggard made a guest appearance on the Opry. 

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

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

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

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

August 27, 1982: B.J. Thomas made his final appearance as a member of the Grand Ole Opry. While his final appearance was on the Friday Night Opry, his last Saturday night appearance was earlier that year, in June. Although he left as a member, B.J. returned on occasion to guest on the show.

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

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

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

August 23, 1986: Florence Henderson made a guest appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. I only mention this because this month her fellow Brady Bunch star Barry Williams, will be making his Opry debut. 

August 1, 1987: Longtime member of Roy Acuff's group, Smoky Mountain Boy Howdy Forrester passed away. Howdy had last appeared on the Opry in June. 

August 22, 1987: Roy Clark became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. When Roy joined the cast, there was some hesitation on his part, as he told Hal Durham that he could not guarantee how many shows he would appear on as he lived in Tulsa and only came to Nashville to film Hee Haw. However, that was fine with the Opry, thus when Roy was in Nashville to film or record, he would appear on the show. Roy, who was also a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame, passed away in November 2018.

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

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

August 12, 1988: Frequent Opry guest Kathy Mattea made her debut on the Grand Ole Opry. There are many, including myself, who feel Kathy would make a great member of the Opry's cast. 

August 10, 1991: Vince Gill became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. This will be his 32nd year as an Opry member. On the night he joined, he was introduced by Roy Acuff. Over the years, Vince has made known his love of the Opry and has challenged others of his generation to support the show. Hopefully, after cutting his Opry appearances the past several years due to his commitment to the Eagles, Vince will be back more often at the Opry in the years to come. If 2023 is any indication, he is well on his way. 

August 24, 1991: Dottie West made her final appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. Her final song would be her big hit "Here Comes My Baby." Also, on that same night, Opry member Bill Monroe returned for a backstage visit while recovering from heart surgery. He did not perform that night but did walk out on stage. 

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

August 18, 1995: In a surprise appearance, Jerry Lee Lewis and Mickey Gilley were invited by Porter Wagoner out on stage at the Opry, where the duo performed. Many, including myself, had thought that Jerry Lee never returned to the Opry after his initial appearance, however, I was proven wrong. 

August 26, 1995: Grand Ole Opry member Dolly Parton made her first Opry appearance in over seven years. 

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

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

August 22, 1997: Future Grand Ole Opry member Mark Wills made his Opry debut. It would take several decades and dozens of appearances, but Mark would eventually become a member of the Opry. 

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

August 26, 2000: Pam Tillis became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. For Pam, this will be her 23rd year as an Opry member. Pam always felt bad that she became an Opry member before her father, Mel Tillis, however the Opry rectified that a few years later. 

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

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

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

August 31, 2002: The Grand Ole Opry celebrated its 4,000 Saturday night broadcast. The Opry did a tribute to Minnie Pearl that featured Clint Black, Barbara Mandrell, Vince Gill, Amy Grant and Steve Wariner. Almost 20 years later, the Opry will be celebrating show #5000 later this year in October. 

August 23, 2003: Trace Adkins became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. This will be his 20th year as an Opry member. On the night of his induction, his idol Ronnie Milsap did the honors, assisted by Lorrie Morgan. Overall, Trace has been a pretty good Opry member. 

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

August 25, 2010: In a special ceremony, Brad Paisley and Jimmy Dickens sang, "Will The Circle Be Unbroken" as the historic center piece of wood was returned to the stage of the Grand Ole Opry House after being damaged in the historic flood of May 2010. Thanks to extensive repair and renovation, the center circle was restored to its former condition. I can't believe that this took place over 10 years ago. 

August 5, 2011: Little Jimmy Dickens was named an honorary celebrity chef as the Grand Ole Opry held the grand opening for its new restaurant, the Opry Backstage Grill. 

August 6, 2011: The Oak Ridge Boys became members of the Grand Ole Opry. The Opry had wanted the quartet as members for years, however they had always declined due to their heavy touring schedule. However, 12 years ago the Oak Ridge Boys felt the time was right and they accepted the offer by Jimmy Dickens to join the cast. On the night they joined, the group sang, "Bobby Sue," "Amazing Grace," and of course, "Elvira." Every time they are on the Opry, they never fail to receive a standing ovation.

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

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

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

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

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

August 18, 2017: Grand Ole Opry member Hal Ketchum made his final appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. Hal has been dealing with some medical issues that has forced his retirement from performing.

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

August 18, 2018: Bobby Bare made his last appearance on the Opry. Bobby, who had just rejoined the cast, is reportedly doing well, however it has been three years since his last appearance and from various reports, it would appear that he is retired from performing. 

August 21, 2018: Dustin Lynch was invited to become the newest member of the Grand Ole Opry. Trace Adkins handled the surprise announcement, which was a surprise to many. Dustin's Opry membership was one of those head scratchers but overall, he has honored the Opry with around 10 appearances each year. 

August 25, 2018: Grand Ole Opry President Steve Buchanan officially retired. He had made the announcement earlier that he would be leaving to pursue other opportunities. Also, Garth Brooks returned to the Opry that night. While Garth had made surprise appearances over the past decade, this was his first announced Opry appearance since October 2005.

August 5, 2019: Dan Rogers was promoted to Vice-President/Executive Producer of the Grand Ole Opry. Dan has been around the Opry for years and in the short time he has been in charge, he has already left his mark on the show adding members such as Lady A, Gene Watson, The Isaacs, Rhonda Vincent, Mandy Barnett, Carly Pearce, Lauren Alaina, and most recently, Jamey Johnson. 

August 10, 2019: Chely Wright returned for a guest appearance on the Grand Ole Opry, her first appearance in 10 years. At one time there was a lot of talk about Chely becoming an Opry member, however it never happened. 

August 3, 2021: Carly Pearce was inducted as the newest member of the Grand Ole Opry. Trisha Yearwood did the honors. Carly has been a proud supporter of the Grand Ole Opry, appearing on the show over 100 times in her short career. 

August 10, 2021: Just one week after Carly was inducted as an Opry member, Ricky Skaggs surprised The Isaacs during their performance on the Tuesday Night Opry to invite the family group to become members of the Opry. Their induction will take place in September. 

August 20, 2021: Tom T. Hall passed away. Tom T. originally joined the Opry in 1971. After the Opry left the Ryman Auditorium, Tom T. left the show, however he returned in 1980 at the invitation of Ernest Tubb. Tom T. Hall is a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame. 

August 21, 2021: Just one day after the death of Tom. T., former Grand Ole Opry member Don Everly passed away at the age of 85. The Everly Brothers, Don and Phil, came to the Opry in the early 1950s as part of a youth movement. However, their careers took off and off to California the brothers went. In 2001 they were elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame. 

August 30, 2022: Don Schlitz was inducted as a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Vince Gill, who had invited Don to become an Opry member earlier in the year, did the honors on that special night. 

There you have it for August. As usual, it was a busy month in Nashville and at the Grand Ole Opry.