October Opry Highlights

This month, the Grand Ole Opry will be celebrating its 99th anniversary. A lot has happened in those 99 years, much of it taking place in the month of October. Here are some of those happenings: 

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 30, 1926: The Binkley Brothers and Theron Hale made their first appearances on 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. After what many considered a huge oversite, Dottie was finally elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2018. 

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 16, 1937: Bradley Kincaid made his first appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. In my opinion, one of the great oversites by the CMA and Country Music Hall of Fame is the lack of election of Bradley to the Hall of Fame. As a reminder, it was Bradley who performed with Grandpa Jones and was the one to give Grandpa his nickname. 

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. For those of you who have never heard the first Prince Albert show, it is in the Country Music Hall of Fame Digital Archives. 

October 23, 1939: Bill Monroe came to Nashville and auditioned for George D. Hay and the Grand Ole Opry. He sang "Mule Skinner Blues," which was the same song that he sang later when he was welcomed as a new cast member.

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, although Elvis would return to visit backstage, he never again performed on the Opry. 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 15, 1955: "Grand Ole Opry" began on ABC-TV. The show would run once a month on the network. 

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. Most fans will not remember Slim's time at the Opry, but they will remember those late-night television ads selling his greatest hits album. 

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 struck it big. Stonewall's time at the Opry was somewhat complicated, as he did leave for a few years and later in life, he sued the Opry and Gaylord Entertainment. 

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 21, 1961: After overcoming a serious car accident, Patsy Cline returned to the Opry and performed "Crazy" for the first time. This was also the night that Merle Travis made an appearance on the Opry. On the Opry membership wall, Merle is listed as a member, and did agree to become one. Although he was an Opry member, he never appeared on the Opry while a member. (There is a story behind this). 

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. There are very few former Opry members still living, and Leroy is one of them. 

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. Also on the same date, future Grand Ole Opry member Charlie Walker made his first appearance on the Opry. 

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. While that was his debut on the Opry, Roy Jr. would make a few more appearances. 

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 and came weeks after she joined Porter's show. 

October 14, 1967: Dizzy Dean, Perry Como and Phil Harris all made surprise guest appearances on the Grand Ole Opry that night.

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. Why Harry Stone has never been elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame is a mystery to me. 

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 13, 1969: It was formally announced that the Grand Ole Opry would be leaving the current Opry House (Ryman Auditorium) and moving to a new home at Opryland. It would take almost five years for the new Opry House to be completed. 

October 16, 1971: Freddie Hart appeared on the Grand Ole Opry. This was also the night of the Opry's 46th birthday celebration. Of course, Freddie sang his classic hit, "Easy Loving." 

October 27, 1973: Comedian and storyteller 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. After Jerry joined the cast, the Opry did not add another comedian until 2023, when Henry Cho and Gary Mule Deer were inducted as Opry members. 

October 25, 1974: The Pointer Sisters made a guest appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. It was also the night of the Opry's 49th birthday celebration. Additionally, while not scheduled, Porter Wagoner and Dolly Parton reunited on the Opry, their final appearance together until 1988. 

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. This was also the final night that Tammy Wynette performed on the Opry as a member.

October 22, 1975: Filming took place at the Grand Ole Opry House for a 50th anniversary television special that would air on ABC the following month. The filming took place over a two-day period. 

October 16, 1976: During the Opry's annual birthday celebration, which would have been their 51st. veteran Opry stage manager Vito Pellettieri was honored. In many ways, Vito did more to establish the Opry than any other individual. Among Vito's many contributions to the show were the establishment of an actual schedule for each performer and breaking up the Opry into 15- or 30-minute segments. Vito, who passed away the following year, was with WSM and the Opry for over 40 years. And by the way, Vito never drove or owned a car, taking the bus to the Opry each weekend. (And Hank Snow loved Vito). While never elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame, Vito at one time did make the list of finalists. 

October 6, 1977: The Grand Ole Opry put on a special Grand Ole Opry show at the Boston Gardens. The show featured a full Opry cast and was broadcast on WSM.

October 10, 1977: The Grand Ole Opry presented its 52nd birthday show with a special three-hour Opry for the visiting disc jockeys in town for their annual convention. 

October 3, 1981: Roy Rogers, Dale Evans and the Sons of the Pioneers made a guest appearance on the Opry. While Roy Acuff was listed as the host of the segment, after Roy did his opening number, he turned the segment over to Roy Rogers, who handled it from there. 

October 2, 1982: Grand Ole Opry member Doyle Wilburn made his final appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. Doyle would pass away several weeks later from cancer. 

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 regard 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 29, 1982: Alabama traveled up to Nashville and made their first appearance on the Opry. 

October 22, 1983: The Fruit Jar Drinkers made their final appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. With the death of Kirk McGee several days later, the group disbanded, however most of the members of the group continued playing on the Opry in other capacities.

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 6, 1984: Keith Whitley made his debut on the Grand Ole Opry. Keith would make several more guest appearances and was just weeks away from being invited to become an Opry member prior to his passing. 

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 Lonzo's, starting with Ken Marvin, followed by Rollin's brother Johnny, and finally David Hooten. In addition to being on the Opry that evening, the duo also hosted the Ernest Tubb Midnight Jamboree. The night also marked the return of Roy Acuff to the Opry. Roy had been missing for the past 18 weeks following the discovery of a blood clot. 

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 artwork. 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 6, 1990: Garth Brooks became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. This will be Garth's 33rd 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, and I have been told numerous times that Garth helps out the Opry whenever they call. For those of us who were at the Opry's 5000th show last year, seeing Garth was one of the highlights. 

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 31, 1992: Longtime Opry sponsor Pet Milk sponsored an Opry segment for the final time. Most recently, the company had been sponsoring the 10:30 segment on the second Saturday night show. 

October 2, 1995: Grand Ole Opry member Porter Wagoner rang the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange to mark the 70th year of the Grand Ole Opry. 

October 21, 1995: One of my personal favorite sponsors of the Grand Ole Opry, "Jogging In A Jug" began sponsoring a segment of the Opry. My favorite part of the commercial was the disclaimer that the product offered no medical benefits. The company remained a sponsor for several years in a few different time slots. 

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. Bob would remain in that position until retiring in 1998. 

October 31, 1997: Kitty Wells and Johnny Wright appeared on the Grand Ole Opry with son Bobby Wright as they celebrate their 60th anniversary. Kitty sang "Makin' Believe" and did one verse of "It Wasn't God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels."

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 25, 2000: CBS-TV taped "Grand Ole Opry 75th--Celebration" at the Grand Ole Opry House, featuring Garth Brooks, Alan Jackson, George Jones, Trisha Yearwood, Loretta Lynn, Porter Wagoner, as well as several other members of the Opry's cast. 

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. Beecher "Pete" Kirby is another of those who have been overlooked for the Country Music Hall of Fame. 

October 4, 2003: The Grand Ole Opry was 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 21st 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 19 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. Porter was an Opry member for just over 50 years and after the death of Roy Acuff, was the face of the Opry. 

October 20, 2007: XM Satellite Radio began airing the Grand Ole Opry. The first broadcast featured Carrie Underwood, Ronnie Milsap and Travis Tritt. 15 years later, the Opry is still replayed weekly on satellite radio. 

October 27, 2007: Josh Turner became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. This will be Josh's 17th 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. John Conlee inducted Craig, who will be celebrating his 16th year as an Opry member. 

October 22, 2010: Blake Shelton became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. This will be Blake's 14th year as an Opry member.

October 4, 2011: Randy Travis was honored upon his 25th year in the music business with a special show on the Tuesday Night Opry. He performed "Diggin' Up Bones" with John Anderson. Joining in the celebration were Carrie Underwood, Connie Smith, Gene Watson, Joe Stampley and Josh Turner.

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. While Rascal Flatts disbanded several years ago, individually the members have continued to make Opry appearances. 

October 2, 2012: Darius Rucker was invited by Brad Paisley, who was sitting in the audience, to become a member of the Grand Ole Opry. The formal induction would take place two weeks later. 

October 16, 2012: Darius Rucker was formally inducted as a member of the Opry. This will be his 12th 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 was 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. Of course, one of the songs he sang was his classic "Okie From Muskogee." While Merle was never an Opry member, he did make a handful of appearances on the show. 

October 24, 2015: Grand Ole Opry member Jan Howard made her last singing appearance on the Opry. Jan joined the Opry in March 1971 and continued as a member until her death in 2020. 

October 29, 2016: Luke Combs made his debut on the Grand Ole Opry. While Luke did not make many future guest appearances, in 2019 he was invited to become an Opry member.

October 17, 2017: Chris Young became the newest member of the Grand Ole Opry. This will be Chris' 7th year as an Opry member and it is always nice to see Chris appearing on the Opry. 

October 28, 2017: Newly inducted Country Music Hall of Fame member Don Schlitz made his first appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. Since then, Don has been back to the Opry many, many times, eventually becoming an Opry member in 2022. 

October 11, 2019: Garth Brooks introduced former President Jimmy Carter to the sold-out audience at the Friday Night Opry. Jimmy, along with his wife Roslyn, was in Nashville as part of Habitat for Humanity. Also appearing that night were Emmylou Harris, Bill Anderson, Dierks Bentley and Margo Price. 

October 12, 2019: Dolly Parton was 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 planned out. Dolly made her Opry debut in 1959, and then returned in 1967 as a part of Porter Wagoner's outfit. 

October 3, 2020: For the 1st time since March, live audiences returned to the Grand Ole Opry House as the Opry celebrated its 95th birthday before an audience of 500. Opry members Vince Gill, Lorrie Morgan, Terri Clark and Dierks Bentley were featured. As part of the 95th Opry birthday, Dierks celebrated 15 years as an Opry member. And yes, I was one of the 500 in the audience that night and it was great to be back at the Opry. 

October 22, 2020: Former Grand Ole Opry member Margie Bowes passed away after a period of declining health. Margie joined the Opry in 1958 and was a member of the cast until leaving the show in November 1971. After she left as a member, Margie would occasionally make an appearance, usually on one of the reunion shows. 

October 24, 2021: Grand Ole Opry member Sonny Osborne passed away after a period of declining health. The Osborne Brothers, Sonny along with his brother Bobby, joined the Opry in 1964. Sonny had retired for several decades, while his brother Bobby carried on alone. 

October 4, 2022: Grand Ole Opry and Country Music Hall of Fame member Loretta Lynn passed away after a period of declining health. Loretta was a 60-year member of the Grand Ole Opry, second only to Jean Shepard among female Opry members. 

October 6, 2022: Ashley McBryde was invited to become the newest member of the Grand Ole Opry. Opry member Garth Brooks made the surprise announcement live from the Grand Ole Opry House on the CBS morning show. Her induction would take place later in the year. 

October 7, 2023: Sara Evans was inducted as a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Sara was surprised the previous month with an invitation to join the cast by Bill Anderson during a show at the Ryman Auditorium. Sara said that her dream had been to become an Opry member and that she prayed it would happen at some point. Opry member Crystal Gayle did the honors during the Opry's 98th birthday celebration. 

October 24, 2023: Jon Pard became the newest member of the Grand Ole Opry. Jon had been asked much earlier in the year to become a member. He will be the first member in the history of the Opry to have been born in California. Garth Brooks surprised the Opry audience that night and did the formal induction of Jon. 

There you have the highlights for this month.

Grand Ole Opry 9/27 & 9/28

On Thursday evening at the Grand Ole Opry House, the People's Choice Country Awards show took place. Among those scheduled to appear include (with Opry members highlighted), Shania Twain, Miranda Lambert, Kane Brown, Keith Urban, Kelsea Ballerini, Parker McCollum, Lady A, Little Big Town, Carly Pearce, Dan + Shay, Nate Bargatze, The War And Treaty, Machine Gun Kelly, Brad Paisley, Ashley Cooke, Bailey Zimmerman, Dasha, Orville Peck, Scotty McCreery, Shaboozey, Tanner Adell and Matt Rife. A pretty impressive list with more to be added. While not all of those listed, I would consider true country, most are, and the majority are either Opry members or are acts that have appeared on the Opry before. 

Why do I write that list? Because in looking at the Grand Ole Opry lineups for this weekend, not a single name on that list, including the member of the Opry listed, are on the Opry schedule for this weekend. You would think, and it would have been nice, if at least one of those acts had decided to stay the extra day or two and appear on the show that "Made Country Music Famous."

So, taking a look at who is appearing this weekend, The Friday Night Opry will feature Opry members Mandy Barnett, John Conlee and Connie Smith, while on Saturday night Bill Anderson, Charlie McCoy and Jeannie Seely are listed. 

Guesting on Friday night are Clay Walker, Stephanie Urbina Jones, Shenandoah and making a return appearance, The Kody Norris Show. Saturday night features the Larry Stevenson Band, Frank Ray, Dylan Schneider, Emmy Russell and making his Opry debut, David J. 

Friday September 27
7:00: John Conlee, Mandy Barnett, The Kody Norris Show, Stephanie Urbina Jones
Intermission
8:15: Connie Smith, Peyton Porter, Shenandoah, Clay Walker

Saturday September 28
7:00: Opry Square Dancers, Jeannie Seely, David J., Larry Stephenson Band, Frank Ray
Intermission
8:15: Bill Anderson, Emmy Russell, Opry Square Dancers, Dylan Schnieder, Charlie McCoy

Only 3 Opry members each night. 

Continuing on, here is the Grand Ole Opry lineup from 50 years ago, Saturday September 28, 1974:

1st show
6:30: Willis Brothers (host); Jan Howard
6:45: Wilburn Brothers (host); Jean Shepard, Ray Pillow
7:00: The 4 Guys (host); Connie Eaton, Lonzo & Oscar
7:30: Roy Acuff (host); Connie Smith, Charlie Walker, Crook Brothers, Tennessee Travelers
8:00: Billy Grammer (host); Marion Worth, Louie Roberts
8:30: Roy Drusky (host); Jeanne Pruett, Harold Weakley, Fruit Jar Drinkers

2nd show
9:30: Charlie Walker (host); Willis Brothers, Jan Howard
10:00: Wilburn Brothers (host); Jean Shepard
10:15: Roy Acuff (host); Connie Eaton
10:30: Ray Pillow (host); Lonzo & Oscar, Louie Roberts
10:45: Billy Grammer (host); Connie Smith, Crook Brothers, Tennessee Travelers
11:00: Roy Drusky (host); The 4 Guys, Marion Worth, Fruit Jar Drinkers, Sam McGee
11:30: Marty Robbins (host); Jeanne Pruett, Charlie Louvin, Diane McCall

(Dolly Parton was scheduled for both shows and was replaced by Connie Eaton. Justin Tubb was also scheduled for both and canceled, while Charlie Louvin was only scheduled for the late show). 


On September 28, 2010, the Grand Ole Opry House reopened after being closed due to the devastating flood that took place in Nashville, and through the Grand Ole Opry complex. It was a star-studded evening, led off by Bill Anderson, who was also the last member to perform on the Opry the night before the flood. On the televised portion that night, Jimmy Dickens and Brad Paisley led the cast in the singing of "Will The Circle Be Unbroken." As part of the telecast that night, Trace Adkins invited Blake Shelton to become the newest member of the Grand Ole Opry. The induction would take place later in the year. 

Blake Shelton made his Opry debut on May 5, 2001, and here is the running order from that night 23 years ago. 

1st show
6:30: Bill Herd Chevrolet/Apple Barn
Jean Shepard (host): A Phone Call Away
Billy Walker: Word Games
Bill Carlisle: Gone Home
The Whites: If It Ain't Love
Mike Snider: Bulman's Reel
Jean Shepard: Tennessee Waltz

7:00: Pigeon Forge
Porter Wagoner (host): My Long Journey Home
Connie Smith: Ribbon Of Darkness/You Got Me Right Where You Want Me
Blake Shelton: That's What I Call Home/Austin
Porter Wagoner & Christie Lynn: Justo Someone I Used To Know
Porter Wagoner: Dooley

7:30: Standard Candy
Bill Anderson (host): Walk Out Backwards
Tracy Byrd: A Good Way To Get On My Bad Side/Keeper Of The Stars
Steve Wariner: Two Teardrops/If I Didn't Love You
Bill Anderson & Steve Wariner: Tips Of My Fingers

8:00: Martha White
John Conlee (host): Rockin' With You
Nashville Bluegrass Band: Bull Weevil Song/The Women Make A Fool Out Of Me
Del Reeves: I Would Like To See You Again
Opry Square Dance Band & The Melvin Sloan Dancers: Cherokee Shuffle
John Conlee: That Was Before My Time

8:30: Physicians Mutual
Jimmy Dickens (host): Me & My Big Loud Mouth
George Hamilton IV: Forever Young
Jeannie Seely: I Can't Stop Loving You
Kingsmen Quartet: He May Be On The Next Cloud Passing By/Joy
Jimmy Dickens: I'd Rather Sleep In Peace Than Know You're Gone

2nd show
9:30: online.com
Porter Wagoner (host): Tennessee Saturday Night
Jean Shepard: A Phone Call Away/Together Again
Tracy Byrd: A Good Way To Get On My Bad Side/Keeper Of The Stars/I'm From The Country
Porter Wagoner & Christie Lynn: Milwaukee, Here I Come

10:00: Lincoln Mercury/Shoney's
Jimmy Dickens (host): Out Behind The Barn
The Whites: Pins & Needles
Connie Smith: Hearts Like Ours
Steve Wariner: Crazy Arms/Holes In The Floor Of Heaven
Jimmy Dickens: We Could

10:30: Document Management & Storage/Joggin' In A Jug
Jeannie Seely (host): You Don't Need Me But You Will
Billy Walker: Cross The Brazos At Waco
John Conlee: Common Man/In My Eyes
Opry Square Dance Band & The Melvin Sloan Dancers: Durang's Hornpipe
Jeannie Seely: Make The World Go Away

11:00: Coca Cola
Bill Anderson (host): Don't She Look Good
Mike Snider: Soldier's Joy/Angeline The Baker/Old Molly Hare
Stonewall Jackson: Why I'm Walkin
Blake Shelton: That's What I Call Home/Austin
Bill Anderson: Quits

11:30: Opry Fest
George Hamilton IV (host): Abilene
Ray Pillow: Please Don't Leave Me Anymore/Bubbles In My Beer
Nashville Bluegrass Band: Blue Cadillac
Kingsmen Quartet: Whisper A Prayer/He'll Get You To The Other Side
George Hamilton IV: Forever Young

Remember the words of Jean Shepard: You can't spell Blake Shelton without the letters B.S. 

Much like last week, there will be no mid-week Opry shows next week as the Grand Ole Opry House gets prepared for Little Big Town's Christmas at the Grand Ole Opry, which takes place on Friday night. 

Until then, thanks for reading and commenting and as always, I hope everyone enjoys the Grand Ole Opry this weekend. 

Grand Ole Opry 9/20 & 9/21

As we get close to entering the last quarter of the year, it is a good time to check in on some of our favorite Grand Ole Opry members and see how they are doing in regard to appearances on the show. 

We look at those "active" members who have zero appearances on the Opry in 2024: 

Garth Brooks
Diamond Rio
Alan Jackson
Alison Krauss
Reba McEntire
Dolly Parton
Blake Shelton
Travis Tritt
Keith Urban

Should any of us be surprised as several of these names appear often. And of course, these are some of the Opry's biggest names. Other disappointments, with just one appearance, include Kelsea Ballerini, Clint Black, Luke Combs, Martina McBride, and Chris Young. While they are also on that list, Lady A, Little Big Town and Dustin Lynch all have upcoming appearances on the schedule. 

I am going to guess that those missing members will all be showing up next year at some point to help the Opry celebrate its 100th anniversary, and they will proclaim how honored they are to be Opry members and how much it means to them. 

Actions speak louder than words. 

While not much can be done about the members who seem not to want to appear on the show, let's recognize one of the Opry's newest members, T. Graham Brown. Since joining the cast in 2024, this weekend will mark his 20th appearance as an Opry member. If T. Graham, along with Vince Gill, Carrie Underwood, Ashey McBryde, Jamey Johnson and a few of the others can make time for the Opry, so could those who choose not. 

And speaking of T. Graham Brown, he is on the schedule this weekend on the Friday Night Opry. Joining him will be members The Isaacs, Connie Smith and Old Crow Medicine Show. Rounding out the Friday schedule is comedian Brian Bates, Rissi Palmer, Hannah Ellis and making his Opry debut, Donavon Frankenreither. 

Old Crow Medicine show is back on Saturday night, along with members Oak Ridge Boys, Jeannie Seely, and John Conlee. Wyatt Ellis, who has been impressive in his past Opry appearances, is back, along with Noeline Hofmann, who is making her Opry debut, and the Wonder Women of Country, which consists of Kelly Willis, Melisa Carper and Brennen Leigh.

Friday September 20
7:00: T. Graham Brown, Hannah Ellis, Donavon Frankenreiter, The Isaacs
Intermission
8:15: Connie Smith, Brian Bates, Rissi Palmer, Old Crow Medicine Show

Saturday September 21
7:00: Opry Square Dancers, Jimmy Fortune, Wyatt Ellis, Jeannie Seely, Wonder Women of Country
Intermission
8:15: Noeline Hofmann, Opry Square Dancers, Old Crow Medicine Show, Oak Ridge Boys

Donavon Frankenreither is making his Opry debut on Friday night, the same day that his new album, Get Outta Your Mind is released. It is his first studio album in nine years and marks the 20th anniversary of his self-titled debut album. He is a surfer from California and has toured extensively. 

Noeline Hofmann comes to the Opry from the Badlands of Southern Alberta, Canada and was recently named one of Holler Country's 24 New Country & Americana Artists for 2024. Thus far this year she has toured with Charley Crockett and Wyatt Flores.  Her newest song "August" was recently released and her debut EP, Purple Gas, is set for release on October 4. 

Continuing our look back at 1974, the year that the Grand Ole Opry House opened, here is the running order from Saturday September 21: 

1st show
6:30: Willis Brothers (host), Norma Jean
6:45: Bill Monroe (host), Ernie Ashworth
7:00: Archie Campbell (host), Phil Campbell, Tommy Jones, Dean Twins
7:30: Roy Acuff (host), Karen Wheeler, Charlie Albertson, Crook Brothers, Smokey Mountain Cloggers
8:00: Lester Flatt (host), Paul Warren, Bill Carlisle, Joe & Rose Lee Maphis, Marty Stuart
8:30: Hank Snow (host), Marion Worth, Jim Mundy, Fruit Jar Drinkers

2nd show
9:30: Willis Brothers (host), Norma Jean, Charlie Albertson, 
10:00: Archie Campbell (host), Dean Twins, Phil Campbell, Tommy Jones
10:15: Bill Monroe (host), Karen Wheeler
10:30: Lester Flatt (host), Bill Carlisle, Joe & Rose Lee Maphis
10:45: Roy Acuff (host), Brother Oswald, Crook Brothers, Stoney Mountain Cloggers
11:00: Hank Snow (host), Jim Mundy, Fruit Jar Drinkers, Betty Jean Robinson, Sam McGee
11:30: Del Reeves (host), Marion Worth, Louie Roberts

(Ernie Ashworth only appeared on the first show and Del Reeves on the second show). 

Charlie Albertson, who appeared that night, was a politician from North Carolina. He was a member of the North Carolina Senate, representing the 5th and 10th districts from 1993 until his retirement in 2010. His district included constituents in Duplin, Harnett and Sampson counties. Albertson also served as the Democratic Caucus Secretary from 2005 until 2010. He previously served in the North Carolina House of Representatives from 1989 through 1992. He has earned the nickname "The Singing Senator."

He was also a singer-songwriter and musician that toured in 26 countries. Primarily a country and gospel singer, he worked with Jimmy Capps and claims Hank Williams, Lefty Frizzell, Ernest Tubb, Roy Acuff, Kitty Wells, and Hank Thompson as influences. He performed at many Democratic Party rallies and once wrote the theme song/jingle for the "Goodness Grows in North Carolina" program that the state promoted. In 2010, outraged over the citations in his district of members of Willie Nelson's band (which led to Nelson cancelling a concert there), he wrote and recorded a song called "Leave the Man Alone" criticizing law enforcement for the incident. It received airplay on several country stations. At the age of 92, he is still alive. 

Betty Jean Robinson was a noted country and gospel singer. In addition, she wrote songs and was voted Billboard Magazine's songwriter of the year. Robinson was signed to Metromedia Records and later to Decca Records where she wrote many hit songs including, "All I Need is You" and "Hello Love." recorded by Hank Snow. She also did several duets with country music star Carl Belew.

Finishing up this week, here is the running order from just over a decade later, September 21, 1985: 

1st show
6:30: Mrs. Grissoms
The 4 Guys (host): Sweet Ruby Red
Brother Oswald: Late Last Night When My Willie Came Home
The 4 Guys: How Married Are You Mary Ann

6:45: Rudy's
Charlie Walker (host): Right Or Wrong
Jean Shepard: Love's Gonna Live Here
Charlie Walker: T For Texas
Joe Edward: Ida Red

7:00: Shoney's
Del Reeves (host): Be Glad
Wilma Lee Cooper: West Virginia Polka
Teddy Wilburn: Lovesick Blues
Jeanne Pruett: Swing Down Chariot/Satin Sheets
Del Reeves: Good Hearted Woman/Good Time Charlie's

7:30: Standard Candy
Jack Greene (host): Satisfaction
Justin Tubb: Sing Blue Eyed Elaine Again
Connie Smith: I'll Come Runnin'
Charlie Louvin & Jennifer O'Brien: He Can Be Found
Crook Brothers & The Stoney Mountain Cloggers: Sail Away Ladies
Jack Greene: There Goes My Everything

8:00: Martha White
Jimmy Dickens (host): I'm Little But I'm Loud
Billy Walker: Coffee Brown Eyes
Skeeter Davis: Silver Threads & Golden Needles
Del Wood: The Entertainer
Ernie Ashworth: The Beginning Of The End For Me
Lorrie Morgan: Unchained Melody
Jimmy Dickens: We Could

8:30: Music Valley Drive
Hank Snow (host): Down The Trail Of Aching Hearts
Jan Howard: Why Lady Why
Roy Drusky: As Long As I Live
Jeannie Seely: When Your Heart's Been Stepped On
Bill Carlisle: Have A Drink On Me
Hank Snow: Nevertheless

2nd show
9:30: Dollar General
Del Reeves (host): Lay A Little Lovin' On Me
Wilma Lee Cooper: A Daisy A Day
Teddy Wilburn: Crazy Arms
Del Wood: Are You From Dixie
Ernie Ashworth: Talk Back Trembling Lips
Del & Kari Reeves: We're The Greatest Lovers In The World

10:00: Little Debbie
The 4 Guys (host): Made In The U.S.A.
Jean Shepard: I Thought Of You/It Wasn't God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels/You Win Again/A Dear John Letter
The 4 Guys: Shenandoah

10:15: Sunbeam
Jimmy Dickens (host): Sleepin' At The Foot Of The Bed
Jeanne Pruett: Temporarily Yours
Jimmy Dickens: Life Turned Her That Way

10:30: Martha White
Billy Walker (host): Word Games
Connie Smith: Hangin' Around
Billy Walker: Coffee Brown Eyes/Charlie's Shoes

10:45: Beechnut
Roy Drusky (host): Mississippi
Skeeter Davis: I Ain't Never
Crook Brothers & The Stoney Mountain Cloggers: Bill Cheatham
Roy Dusky: Have I Stayed Away Too Long

11:00: Coca Cola
Hank Snow (host): Forever &1; Forever & 2
Justin Tubb: There'll Be No Teardrops Tonight
Jeannie Seely: Don't Touch Me
Charlie Louvin & Steve Helton: Make Him A Soldier
Brother Oswald: Mountain Dew
Hank Snow: It Kinda Reminds Me Of Me

11:30: Quincy's
Charlie Walker (host): My Shoes Keep Walking Back To You
Jan Howard: I Don't Know A Thing About Love
Bill Carlisle: Is Zat You Myrtle
Lorrie Morgan: I Don't Know Why Ou Don't Want Me/There's No Love In Tennessee
Charlie Walker: Fraulin
Joe Edwards: Ida Red

Well, there you have it for this week. Next week there are no mid-week Opry shows as the Opry House prepares for the People Choice Country Awards on Thursday night, hosted by Shania Twain. Appearing on the show will be Opry members Keith Urban, Kelsea Ballerini, Lady A, Little Big Town, and Carly Pearce, among other country music stars. Isn't it interesting that these Opry members can find a way to the Opry House for an awards show, but not for an actual Opry show? 

Take care and I hope everyone enjoys the Opry this weekend. 

Mid-Week Opry Shows

There are only two Opry shows in the mid-week schedule as Opry Country Classics is off the schedule for this week. 

Taking a quick look at the Tuesday Night Opry, Grand Ole Opry members Ashley McBryde, Riders In The Sky and Charlie McCoy are on the schedule. Blind Boys of Alabama heads the list of non-members, joined by Tyler Hubbard, Midland, Shelly Fairchild and Tami Neilson. For Tami, it will be her Opry debut. 

On Wednesday night, Grand Ole Opry member Jeannie Seely is on the schedule. On Monday, she celebrated her 57th anniversary as a member of the Grand Ole Opry cast. Opry members Rhonda Vincent and Jamey Johnson will be joining Jeannie on Wednesday night. Also appearing will be Opry NextStage artist Flatland Cavalry, Dasha, The Shootouts, Paul Thorn and Chancey Williams. 

The reason for no Opry Country Classics this week? Comedian, and banjo player Steve Martin, along with fellow comedian Martin Short are booked for a show at the Opry House. 

Grand Ole Opry 9/13 & 9/14 (Update #2)

Starting off with this post from Opry member Bill Anderson: 

It is with much sadness and a heavy heart that I tell you Les Singer, a member of my Po’ Folks Band for more than 40-years, longer than anyone in history, has passed away following a lengthy illness. He was 69.

Lester Earl (he was named for bluegrass greats Lester Flatt and Earl Scruggs) came to work with me in 1981, and was our lead guitar and banjo player until declining health forced him to retire in 2021. He had stopped touring with us a few years before but continued to perform at the Grand Ole Opry for as long as his health permitted. 

Over the years, he also played on many of my recordings as well as serving as the rhythm guitar player for the entire life of the Country’s Family Reunion television series.

He leaves behind his wife of 42 years, Elizabeth (Lizzie) Singer, four daughters…Jana, Carrie, Haley, and Marissa….7 grandchildren and a great-granddaughter.

Funeral arrangements are incomplete at this time.

Onstage, Les was a great musician and the consummate professional. Offstage, he and I enjoyed a relationship that went far beyond employer-employee. He was “Lester” and I was “Bubba.” We were both huge sports fans, but seldom found ourselves rooting for the same teams. He loved the St. Louis Cardinals baseball team while I cheered for the Atlanta Braves. He was a died-in-the-wool Chicago Bears fan in football and laughed because I pulled for our hometown Tennessee Titans. In college ball, it was his Fightin’ Illini from the University of Illinois versus my Bulldogs from Georgia. I sometimes accused him of simply being against whatever team I was for.

We both had a deep love and appreciation for classic country music and bluegrass. One of my favorite moments was the day on Family Reunion when Les had to play banjo on “Foggy Mountain Breakdown” in front of Earl Scruggs, who was seated in our circle. He sweated bullets before and during his performance, but he pulled it off like the true champion he was. Even Earl told him so.

There’s a jillion more memories I wish I had the time and space to share.

Lester, you made a difference in a lot of lives…and a very large difference in mine. Hopefully, we’ll do it again someday up in Hillbilly Heaven. Get that E-string tuned down and ready to pick “Golden Guitar.” Nobody ever played it quite like you.

Rest in peace, my friend.

I love ya’….

Bubba

Moving on, it was a big weekend last week at the Grand Ole Opry as Carrie Underwood dazzled the audience with four shows, singing a number of her songs. It is always great when Carrie is back at the Opry, and while the two Opry shows for this weekend don't feature a superstar such as Carrie Underwood, there are still two nice shows on the schedule. 

The Friday Night Opry has members Mark Wills, Dailey & Vincent and the Del McCoury Band on the schedule. Dailey & Vincent are back on Saturday night along with Mandy Barnett and Connie Smith. 

Rhett Akins, Ryan Larkins and Shane Profitt will be on the Opry stage Friday night, along with Silverada, who, while not making their Opry debut, will be performing on the Opry for the first time under that name. The group, formally known as Mike and the Moonpies, figured that their music has changed so much over the years, that it was time for a new name to go with the change. 

Very frequent Opry guest Charles Esten is back for another appearance on Saturday night, along with another artist who is very familiar with the Opry House stage, Mickey Guyton. Rounding out the lineup will be two acts who will be making their Opry debuts, Bryce Leatherwood and Compton & Newberry. 

Friday September 13
7:00: Mark Wills, Del McCoury Band, Shane Profitt, Rhett Akins
Intermission
8:15: Katie Pruitt, Ryan Larkins, Silverada, Dailey & Vincent

Saturday September 14
7:00: Opry Square Dancers, Dailey & Vincent, Mandy Barnett, Bryce Leatherwood, Charles Esten
Intermission
8:15: Connie Smith, Opry Square Dancers, Sunny Sweeney, Compton & Newberry, Eric Paslay

(Look for one more to be added on Saturday night after the square dancers on the second half).

Update: Mickey Guyton is off the Saturday schedule and Eric Paslay has been added. 

Update: Sunny Sweeney has been added to the Saturday schedule. 

With these additions, there could be a couple of changes in the running order but as of Friday afternoon, that is how it is still listed. 

Mike Compton and Joe Newberry collaborate with a vision that is both modern and ageless, digging deep into early country music, blues, and other heartbeat sounds of traditional music. Their performances at home and abroad, from venues large and small, showcase soul-stirring instrumentals, numbers from the great American songbag, as well as newly composed songs and tunes that are already taking their rightful place in the new tradition. 

“Bluegrass Today” says of Compton and Newberry, “Real music performed by artists with a deep appreciation for the folk traditions that came before them... They pull off what's almost impossible these days: honest, genuine music that will get your soul dancing.”  Compton and Newberry are shining a much-deserved contemporary light on the roots, as they tend to the branches, too. As “Mandolin Cafe” put it, “Two musicians, two instruments and two voices capture the essence of how great music can be.”

Byrce Leatherwood is a 24-year-old singer/songwriter who aims to carry the torch of country music and continue the legacy of legends prior. Bryce was born and raised in Woodstock, GA, and his passion for music began at an early age. Working on his grandfather’s farm every summer, Bryce was exposed to the classic country hits of George Jones, Merle Haggard and Conway Twitty. Soon thereafter, Bryce began picking up guitars and playing the traditional country music that still inspires him today. Bryce’s music career began to blossom in Statesboro, GA, where he attended Georgia Southern University. During his time in Statesboro, Bryce played college venues and continued to hone his stage presence and his country music repertoire. In late 2021 while still enrolled in college, Bryce formed his band and began playing all around the Southeast. Bryce’s goal was to take the stage and play the best of country music to all ages and audiences. After graduating college, Bryce set his mind on a new task. In 2022, he competed on the NBC hit television show The Voice and was crowned the Season 22 winner in December of 2022. Following his success on “The Voice,” Bryce signed with Republic Records / Universal Music Group Nashville and is currently hard at work on new music.

Now from 50 years ago, Saturday September 14, 1974: 

1st show
6:30: Willis Brothers (host): Ernie Ashworth, Del Wood
6:45: The 4 Guys (host): Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper
7:00: Charlie Louvin (host): Jim & Jesse, Jim Mundy, Diane McCall, Jerry Whitehurst
7:30: Bobby Lord (host): Barbara Fairchild, Crook Brothers, Tommy Jones
8:00: Billy Grammer (host): Connie Smith, Jerry Wallace
8:30: Stonewall Jackson (host): Stu Phillips, Brian Shaw, Fruit Jar Drinkers

2nd show
9:30: Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper (host): Willis Brothers, Barbara Fairchild, Carolee Cooper
10:00: Bobby Lord (host): Ernie Ashworth, Del Wood
10:15: Stonewall Jackson (host): Connie Smith, Jim & Jesse
10:30: Charlie Louvin (host): Ethel Delaney, Diane McCall
10:45: Billy Grammer (host): Jim Mundy, Crook Brothers
11:00: Stu Phillips (host): Jerry Wallace, Patti Page, Fruit Jar Drinkers
11:30: The 4 Guys (host): Brian Shaw, Louie Robert

Finally, the running order from Saturday September 14, 1985: 

1st show
6:30: Bonanza
The 4 Guys (host): Turn Your Radio On
Jeannie Seely: The Pain Once You're Gone
The 4 Guys: I Remember

6:45: Rudy's
Charlie Walker (host): San Antonio Rose
Brother Oswald: Lonesome Road Blues
Charlie Walker: Crazy Arms

7:00: Shoney's
Bill Anderson (host): Wild Weekend
Connie Smith: I'll Come Runnin'
Lonzo & Oscar: Take Me Home Country Roads
Hoyt Axton: Boney Fingers
Bill Anderson: From Rock N' Roll To The Rock Of Ages/I Love You Drops

7:30: Standard Candy
Ray Pillow (host): You're One Memory That I Would Like To Make Again
Skeeter Davis: The End Of The World
David Houston: My Elusive Dreams
Wilma Lee Cooper: Anywhere Just Inside Your Arms
Crook Brothers & The Melvin Sloan Dancers: Sugar In The Goard
Ray Pillow: Dim Lights; Thick Smoke

8:00: Martha White
Jim Ed Brown (host): Don't Bother To Knock
Billy Walker: You Gave Me A Mountain
Jean Shepard: A Tear Dropped By
Roy Drusky: The Last Farewell
Osborne Brothers: Shackles & Chains
Jim Ed Brown: Gone At Last

8:30: Music Valley Drive
Hank Snow (host): Right Or Wrong
Stonewall Jackson: Heaven Tonight
Charlie Louvin & Steve Helton: Satan's Jewel Crown
Bill Carlisle: Gone Home
Jimmy C Newman: Jambalaya
Hank Snow: Among My Souvenirs

2nd show
9:30: Dollar General
Bill Anderson (host): Pity Party
The 4 Guys: I Think About Your Lovin' All The Time
Lorrie Morgan & Randy Parton: Meet Me In Montana
David Houston: Livin' In A House Full Of Love
Diana Trask: One Day At A Time
Bill Anderson: 8 X 10

10:00: Little Debbie
Billy Walker (host): Charlie's Shoes
Connie Smith: You've Got Me Right Where You Want Me
Billy Walker: Coffee Brown Eyes

10:15: Sunbeam
Jimmy C Newman (host): My Toot-Toot
Lonzo & Oscar: Delta Dirt
Cajun Country: Scattin' Cajun

10:30: Martha White
Jim Ed Brown (host): Pop A Top
Wilma Lee Cooper: When God Comes To Gather His Jewels
Brother Oswald: Mountain Dew
Jim Ed Brown: I Take The Chance

10:45: Beechnut
Stonewall Jackson: Don't Be Angry
Skeeter Davis: I Ain't Never
Crook Brothers & The Melvin Sloan Dancers: Lost Indian
Stonewall Jackson: Muddy Water

11:00: Coca Cola
Hank Snow (host): Wreck Of The Old 97
Justin Tubb: There'll Be No Teardrops Tonight
Jean Shepard: Love's Gonna Live Here
Roy Drusky: I'll Hold You In My Heart
Osborne Brothers: Rocky Top
Hank Snow: I'm Not At All Sorry For You

11:30: Quincy's
Charlie Walker (host): Right Or Wrong
Bill Carlisle: Same Ol' Tale That The Crow Told Me
Charlie Louvin: Will You Visit Me On Sundays
Johnny Russell: You Just Better Not Do That
Charlie Walker: Ida Red

Jeannie Seely and Ray Pillow appeared only on the first show, while Lorrie Morgan, Justin Tubb and Johnny Russell only appeared on the second show. On the second show after Bill Anderson's opening number, Bill introduced Roy Acuff to the audience, who did not perform as he was recovering from a heart issue. 

That will do it for this week. As always, thanks for reading and commenting and I hope everyone enjoys the Grand Ole Opry this weekend. 

Tuesday Night Opry 9/10 & Opry Country Classics 9/12

This week there is a special Tuesday Night Opry, Face the Fight Night. This is being advertised as "an unforgettable evening at the Opry as we unite to Face the Fight against veteran suicide."

As with most shows that are related to our veterans or military personnel, Opry members Trace Adkins and Craig Morgan are on the schedule. Joining Trace and Craig will be Mandy Barnett, Rhonda Vincent and Henry Cho. Jason Crabb, Coffee Anderson and Tucker Wetmore, who is making his Opry debut, round out the schedule. 

Tucker Wetmore's “Wind Up Missin’ You” as recently charted on the Mediabase Country chart. He received the invitation to appear on the Opry while making a social media video at his grandmother’s house in Kalama, WA. His grandmother gave him a motorcycle jacket that had belonged to his late grandfather, then said, “There’s something else that grandpa would’ve been very proud to hand to you.” Inside a case was an invitation letter from the Opry.

“The Opry was one of the reasons why I moved to this town to chase this dream and has been a goal of mine for as long as I can remember,” Wetmore wrote as part of an Instagram post with the video. Wetmore decided to move to Nashville after a 2020 visit to Nashville that included attending an Opry show.

He signed a major-label record deal this summer with UMG Nashville in partnership with Back Blocks Music, recently dropped a fiery new single, “What Would You Do?,” will have two songs featured on the star-studded soundtrack of “Twisters” (“Already Had It” and “Steal My Thunder” (with Conner Smith) and is setting his sights on releasing his debut project in early 2025. He will be touring with Luke Bryan this fall. 

Whether it is the annual Opry Goes Pink, which usually takes place in October, or the annual Salute to the Military, which takes place prior to Memorial Day, the Opry does an excellent job with these shows. And thanks to the Opry members and guests, who participate. 

Opry Country Classics once again returns on Thursday night with Larry Gatlin as host and one of the Opry's newest members, Sara Evans, as the Spotlight Artist. 

Opry Country Classics
Thursday September 12
Host: Larry Gatlin
Spotlight Artist: Sara Evans
Also Appearing: Gatlin Brothers, Mark Wills, Dailey & Vincent, William Michael Morgan

Grand Ole Opry 9/6 & 9/7

You know it is going to be a great weekend at the Grand Ole Opry House when there are two shows on Friday and Saturday night, and Opry member Gary Mule Deer is scheduled to appear on all four. 

Ok, while it is great to see Gary Mule back at the Opry, the really big news for this weekend, and the reason why there are two shows each night, is the return of Carrie Underwood to the Opry. Even with her busy schedule, Carrie continues to support and appear on the Opry, but it might get a little more difficult for Carrie heading into fall, as Carrie will be one of the judges this year on American Idol, becoming the first former winner to appear as a judge on the show. How that will affect future Opry appearances remains to be seen. 

In addition to Carrie and Gary Mule Deer, the Friday Night Opry has T. Graham Brown, Riders In The Sky and Connie Smith on the schedule. All are set to appear on both shows. Additionally, Exile, Jenna Paulette and Kelly Willis fill out the lineup. 

Opry members Jeannie Seely, Ashley McBryde, and Don Schlitz will be joining Carrie and Gary Mule on Saturday night. Filling out those two shows are Kassi Ashton and making his Opry debut, Vincent Mason.  

Friday September 6
1st show
7:00: Riders In The Sky, Connie Smith, Jenna Paulette, T. Graham Brown, Kelly Willis, Gary Mule Deer, Exile, Carrie Underwood

2nd show
9:30: Riders In The Sky, Connie Smith, Carrie Underwood, Jenna Paulette, Exile, Gary Mule Deer, Kelly Willis, T. Graham Brown 

Saturday September 7
1st show:
7:00: Opry Square Dancers, Jeannie Seely, Kassi Ashton, Ashley McBryde, Don Schlitz, Vincent Mason, Gary Mule Deer, Carrie Underwood

9:30: Opry Square Dancers, Jeannie Seely, Kassi Ashton, Carrie Underwood, Don Schlitz, Vincent Mason, Gary Mule Deer, Ashley McBryde

(With two shows each night, there is no intermissions. Also, and it was emphasized to me, that there could be changes in the lineups). 

Earlier this summer, Luke Bryan surprised Vincent Mason, revealing, “We got good news… your Opry debut is set for September 7.” “Pretty damn cool to find out you’re gonna be playing at the Grand Ole Opry. It’s even cooler to find out from @lukebryan and getting to have your family there too. I’ve always thought of the @opry as the home of country music and I’m so thankful to get the chance to step in the circle,” Mason wrote following the surprise moment. 

Growing up right outside of Atlanta in Roswell, Georgia, Vincent Mason was inspired early by movie soundtracks and how each song perfectly fit into the storyline. His influences included Parker McCollum and John Mayer. Just 23, his release, “Hell is a Dance Floor” has amassed over 30 million streams since its release at the end of February, making this his biggest breakout moment so far. The song has been supported by major editorial playlists including Spotify’s Hot Country, New Boots, Breakout Country, and Next From Nashville as well as Apple Music’s Country Risers and New In Country. In addition to Parker McCollum, he has opened for Luke Bryan and Miranda Lambert and will be on tour this fall with Gavin Adcock.

Last week, Mason released “Train of Thought," his latest single. 

Now going back 50 years to Saturday September 7, 1974. Of interest on that particular night was an appearance by Grand Ole Opry members George Jones and Tammy Wynette.

1st show
6:30: Mrs. Grissoms
Stonewall Jackson (host): Me & You & A Dog Named Boo
Jimmy Dickens: Lonesome Road Blues/I'd Rather Sleep In Peace
Stonewall Jackson: Waterloo

6:45: Rudy's
Billy Grammer (host): Gotta Travel On
Leona Williams: Yes, Ma'am (He Found Me In A Honky Tonk)
Billy Grammer, Jr.: Orange Blossom Special
Billy Grammer: How Great Thou Art

7:00: Rudy's
Roy Acuff (host): Cottonfields/Night Train To Memphis
The 4 Guys: Maria
Jerry Clower: The She Coon Of Women's Lib
Roy Acuff: Carry Me Back To The Mountains
The 4 Guys: Catfish John
Roy Acuff: Cabin IN Gloryland

7:30: Standard Candy
Willis Brothers (host): Truck Stop
Connie Smith: I Never Knew What That Song Meant Before
Ray Pillow: She's Doing It To Me Again
Crook Brothers & The Tennessee Travelers: Mississippi Sawyer
Willis Brothers: Cool Water
Connie Smith: How Great Thou Art
Ray Pillow: Countryfied
Willis Brothers: Give Me 40 Acres

8:00: Martha White
George Jones (host) & Tammy Wynette: We Loved It Away
Tammy Wynette: Woman To Woman
Patsy Sledd: Chip; Chip
Harold Morrison: Ole Slewfoot
George Jones: The Grand Tour
Tammy Wynette: Take Me To Your World
The Jones Boys: Old Joe Clark
Tina Jones: Delta Dawn
George Jones & Tammy Wynette: The Jet Set

8:30: Stephens
Stu Phillips (host): If You Love Me, Let Me Know
Karen Wheeler: Listen, Spot
Ernie Ashworth: Honky Tonk Hardwood Floor
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Hickory Leaf
Stu Phillips: There Must Be Another Way To Say Goodbye
Karen Wheeler: What Can I Do
Ernie Ashworth: Heartbreak Avenue

2nd show
9:30: Kellogg's
Stonewall Jackson (host): Don't Be Angry
Willis Brothers: There Goes The Farm
Connie Smith: Dallas
Stonewall Jackson: Me & You & A Dog Named Boo
Willis Brothers: Cool Water
Connie Smith: Down In The Valley
Stonewall Jackson: Why I'm Walking/Waterloo

10:00: Fender
George Jones (host) & Tammy Wynette: We're Gonna Hold On/I Don't Wanna Play House
George Jones: White Lightening
George Jones & Tammy Wynette: Take Me
Faron Young: Wine Me Up/Hello, Walls

10:15: Union 76
Billy Grammer (host): Detroit City
Billy Grammer, Jr.: Orange Blossom Special
Billy Grammer: The Old Rugged Cross

10:30: Trailblazer
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
The 4 Guys: Let Me Be There
Roy Acuff: The Great Speckled Bird/I Saw The Light

10:45: Beechnut
Jerry Clower (host): A New Bull
Ernie Ashworth: Talk Back Trembling Lips
Crook Brothers & The Tennessee Travelers: Lost Indian
Jerry Clower: The New Fed

11:00: Coca Cola
Ray Pillow (host): Countryfied
Jimmy Dickens: John Henry
Leona Williams: Pass Me By
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Sally Goodin
Jimmy Dickens: We Could
Sam McGee: San Antonio Rose
Ray Pillow: Excuse Me/Slipping Around

11:30: Elm Hill
Stu Phillips (host): Catfish John
Karen Wheeler: What Can I Do
Ronnie Robbins: If You Love Me, Let Me Know/Baby, Let The Music Play
Karen Wheeler: Listen Spot
Stu Phillips: Why Me Lord

Porter Wagoner was scheduled to host the 7:30 segment on the first show and 11:00 on the second show but cancelled. Also, Marion Worth was scheduled for both shows, but she cancelled also. 

Jerry Clower, who appeared on both shows and hosted a segment on the late show, was at the time, the Opry's newest member. 

All of the artists who appeared with George and Tammy on the first show were part of their road show, while former Opry member, and close friend of George, Faron Young, made a surprise appearance on the 2nd show. 

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. 

Mid-Week Opry Shows

Once again, this week, there is a full schedule of mid-week Opry shows, beginning with the Tuesday Night Opry. 

The Tuesday Night Opry has Grand Ole Opry members Jeannie Seely, Mandy Barnett, Gary Mule Deer and Chris Janson on the schedule. The very good French Family is back for another Opry appearance, along with LOCASH, Chayce Beckham and Pony Bradshaw.

Taking a look at the Wednesday night schedule, there are only two Opry members listed: Riders In The Sky and Rhonda Vincent. Comedian Gary Warren will be making his Opry debut and Opry NextStage artist Chase Matthew is also on the schedule. Rounding out the show are Jason Crabb, Abbey Cone and the wonderful Charlie Worsham. 

Finally, Opry Country Classics will be taking place on Thursday night, again hosted by Larry Gatlin and featuring the Oak Ridge Boys as the Spotlight Artist. 

Opry Country Classics

Thursday September 5
Host: Larry Gatlin
Spotlight Artist: Oak Ridge Boys
Also Appearing: Gatlin Brothers, Mae Estes, Louise Mandrell, Restless Road

September Opry Highlights

 Welcome to September and the beginning of fall. September brings football and cooler weather. And for us baseball fans, pennant races to talk about. Taking a look at this month, here are the historical and important events that have taken place regarding the Grand Ole Opry and its members: 

September 15, 1903: The "King of Country Music" Roy Acuff was born in Maynardsville, Tennessee. Roy came to the Opry in 1938, and except for a brief period of time, would remain a part of the Opry until his death in 1992. I think it is safe to say that Roy has been the most influential member in the history of the Opry and even though he passed away 30 years ago, his presence is still felt at the Opry. 

September 13, 1911: Bill Monroe, "The Father of Bluegrass Music" was born in Rosine, Kentucky. Bill came to the Opry in October 1939 and never left.

September 17, 1923: Hank Williams was born. Really nothing else needs to be said. While his time at the Opry was relatively short, it was very eventful and historical in many ways. Hard to believe that he would turn 100 this year. 

September 26, 1925: One of the most popular members in the history of the Grand Ole Opry, Marty Robbins was born near Glendale, Arizona. Marty came to the Opry in 1953, and shortly after that first appearance, he became an Opry member. Marty, who made the 11:30 segment into his own personal concert, stayed with the Opry until his death in December 1982.

September 26, 1926: Jerry Clower was born near Liberty, Mississippi. This former fertilizer salesman joined the Grand Ole Opry in 1973 and was the last member to join the cast before the Opry moved to the new Grand Ole Opry House in March 1974. Jerry, who was a great comedian and storyteller, passed away in 1998 following heart surgery.

September 22, 1928: The Grand Ole Opry is cancelled as WSM aired a speech by Republican senator William Borah and a rebuttal by Democratic governor Alfred Smith. In the early days of the Opry, there were times when the show did miss a Saturday night. 

September 1, 1931: Lecil Travis Martin, better known as "Boxcar Willie," was born in Sterrett, Texas. Boxcar made his debut on the Opry in 1980 at the age of 49. Roy Acuff loved him, and Boxcar became an Opry member the following year. One of the early performers who operated his own theater in Branson, Boxcar passed away in 1999.

September 5, 1931: The Vagabonds made their Grand Ole Opry debut, becoming one of the show's most popular acts during the decade. Like many of the early acts on the show, they would only stay for a relatively short period of time and have been largely forgotten over time. 

September 12, 1931: The "Possum" George Jones was born in Saratoga, Texas. George originally came to the Opry in 1956, and throughout his career, he would come and go. He was still an Opry member when he passed away in 2013. Although his Opry appearances were few and far between, George was always proud of his Opry membership and it was noted in one of the displays at the George Jones Museum in downtown Nashville, which has since closed. 

September 8, 1932: Probably the greatest female singer in the history of country music, Patsy Cline was born in Winchester, Virginia. Patsy joined the Opry in January 1960, simply by asking, as being an Opry member was one of her earliest dreams. Patsy, who influenced so many other females, passed away in March 1963 at the age of 30. She would later be elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame. 

September 24, 1932: It was a big night at the Grand Ole Opry as Zeke Clements, Curly Fox and Asher Sizemore, along with his son Jimmy all made their first appearances on the Grand Ole Opry. I think it is safe to say that little Jimmy was the youngest member in the history of the Opry. 

September 11, 1938: Country Music Hall of Fame members, The Delmore Brothers, made their final appearance as members of the Grand Ole Opry. One of the early members, this duo influenced many other brother acts that followed. While popular at the Opry, the duo left due to a disagreement with Opry founder George D. Hay.

September 4, 1943: Curley Williams and his Georgia Peach Pickers made their debut on the Grand Ole Opry. 

September 15, 1945: Wally Fowler became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Wally was the founder of the Oak Ridge Quartet, who eventually became known as the Oak Ridge Boys. After Wally joined the Opry, he was frequently featured on the Prince Albert portion, where he would traditionally sing a gospel song. Later in life, Wally ran into some financial problems that led to him selling the rights to the Oak Ridge Quartet name. Wally passed away in 1994.

September 18, 1947: The Grand Ole Opry brought a country music show for the first time to Carnegie Hall in New York city. Opry members featured on that first show included the headliners, Ernest Tubb and Minnie Pearl. The show as scheduled for a two-night run and both nights were sold out. Here is how Ernest Tubb remembered those nights, "The radio and newspaper people ignored us the first night we were there, but we turned away six thousand people and the next night, every reporter was there." Billboard magazine reported that "such screaming and wild applause after each number hasn't been heard in town since Frank Sinatra brought out the bobbysoxers at the Paramount." The shows were so successful that country music, and the Opry, would make a return visit.

September 11, 1948: It would appear that this was the last night that Eddy Arnold appeared as a member of the Grand Ole Opry. At the time, Eddy was the Opry's biggest star, and he left the Opry to headline his own CBS network radio show. Eddy would later do an interview with Ralph Emery in which he talked about leaving the Opry. "I thought I had done as much as I could do there. I had two network radio programs outside the Opry." On his final night as a member, Eddy finished his set and stood on the stage looking out over the Ryman Auditorium. He thanked Harry Stone, WSM, and the Opry fans, and then turned to walk away from the microphone. Harold Bradley, who backed Eddy on guitar that night, would say, "We went around the curtain and he and Minnie Pearl hugged and both of them cried like babies because he was leaving." Eddy also created some controversy because he was the first "star" to leave the Opry and not return. Irving Waugh of WSM said, "We hated to see Eddy leave. But, as I recall, it didn't make that much difference to the Opry. At that stage, people were lined up all the way around the block to get in. New people, including Hank Williams were coming all the time." By the way, once Eddy left the Opry, he never returned as a member. 

September 24, 1948: WSM began the Friday Night Frolics, later to be known as the Friday Night Opry. The show took place from Studio C at WSM, where it would remain until moving to the Ryman Auditorium in 1964. The show was created originally as a way to keep Eddy Arnold on WSM radio.

September 25, 1948: George Morgan became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. He was brought to the show specifically to replace the recently departed Eddy Arnold. George came to the Opry from the WWVA Wheeling Jamboree. There is a wonderful story that George told regarding his first visit to Nashville. He didn't know where the Ryman Auditorium was, and he asked a stranger on the street for directions. That stranger ended up being Eddy Arnold and the Ryman was literally across the street. 

September 13, 1952: Webb Pierce made his first appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. Webb would become an Opry member a year later to help fill the void after Hank Williams was fired. Webb was an Opry member until February 1957, when he left after a dispute with management over booking fees and commissions that were being charged for road shows. Webb would return for guest appearances throughout his career. 

September 26, 1953: Skeeter Davis made her debut on the Grand Ole Opry. Skeeter would later become an Opry member, joining in 1959. There are many of us who have great memories of Skeeter and miss her a lot. She was always colorful and fun. 

September 3, 1955: According to some records, this is the date in which Jim Reeves made his move from the Louisiana Hayride to the Grand Ole Opry. The following month, Jim would become a member of the cast.

September 10, 1955: Justin Tubb became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. This popular singer and songwriter, Justin, at the time, was the youngest member of the cast when he joined. The son of Opry legend Ernest Tubb, Justin would remain an Opry member until his death in 1998 at the age of 62. After the death of his father, Justin would take over the operation of the Midnite Jamboree for a period of time before leaving the show. 

September 24, 1956: WSM radio fired Grand Ole Opry manager Jim Denny. Jim had started with WSM and the Opry back in the early days of the show and was involved behind the scenes in various capacities including being in charge of the Opry's concession business, where he saw for the first time how much money the Opry was making and how much more potential there was. Over time, he became not only the Opry's manager, but a powerful force at WSM and the Opry. In fact, too powerful for some. He was fired from the Opry because he refused to give up his ownership of Cedarwood Publishing Company, which the Opry viewed as a conflict of interest. Shortly after his death, Jim Denny would become one of the early members of the Country Music Hall of Fame.

September 25, 1956: Following the firing of Jim Denny, Dee Kilpatrick was named the Grand Ole Opry's "general director," a new title. He was also named the manager of the WSM Artists' Service Bureau, which was the Opry's in-house booking agency. Dee, a former record company executive, said at the time, "They asked me what I thought was wrong. We'll, back when I was working with Mercury Records, I was at the Opry almost every Saturday night I was in town, and I could look at the audience and see what was wrong. The Opry didn't appeal to the younger audiences that you have to have if you're going to keep growing. All I could see were older people and little, teeny kids. There weren't any teenagers." Kilpatrick would begin to add younger acts to the Opry's cast, including the Everly Brothers and Porter Wagoner. If nothing else, Dee recognized one of the Opry's biggest problems, which would continue on for many, many years.

September 29, 1956: Rose Maddox joined the cast of the Grand Ole Opry. Rose did not stay at the Opry for very long, as several of the Opry's members, including Roy Acuff, did not care for her style or stage appearance. In an interesting sidenote, I seem to remember reading somewhere that Roy ended up buying Rose's Cadillac. 

September 6, 1958: Grand Ole Opry member Rod Brasfield made his final appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. A member of the Country Music Hall of Fame, Rod was remembered for his appearances on the Prince Albert portion of the Opry, along with fellow comedian Minnie Pearl. Sadly, Rod had a lot of personal issues that would eventually lead to his death. 

September 13, 1958: Ben Smathers and The Stoney Mountain Cloggers became members of the Grand Ole Opry. For most of their years, the Stoney Mountain Cloggers would rotate every other weekend as the featured square dancers, backing up groups such as the Crook Brothers and the Fruit Jar Drinkers. Ben Smathers passed away in 1990, and the Cloggers would remain a part of the Opry until 1993.

September 30, 1958: Grand Ole Opry member Marty Stuart was born in Philadelphia, Mississippi. Before beginning his solo career, Marty was a part of Lester Flatt's Nashville Grass and Johnny Cash's touring band. Marty joined the Opry in November 1992.

September 17, 1960: Loretta Lynn made her debut on the Grand Ole Opry. Loretta, who would go on to have one of the most amazing careers of any female in the history of country music, would become an Opry member several years later, in 1962. Loretta passed away in October 2022, just days after reaching her 60th year as an Opry member. 

September 16, 1961: Leroy Van Dyke made his debut on the Grand Ole Opry. Leroy would become an Opry member in October of 1962. He stayed as an Opry member for just a couple of years as he was let go from the show for failing to appear the required number of times. Since then, he has been back to guest on the Opry. Now over 90 years old, Leroy is still touring and sounding good.

September 25, 1962: Country Music Hall of Fame member, and legend, Loretta Lynn became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. After appearing on the Opry often during the early part of her career, her appearances dropped off after stardom hit. Her last Opry appearance was in January 2017, the night her sister, Crystal Gayle became an Opry member. Shortly after, Loretta suffered a stroke that ended her performing career. 

September 27, 1963: The National Life and Accident Insurance Company purchased the Ryman Auditorium from the city of Nashville for a reported $200,000. WSM, which operated the building, immediately changed the name of the building to the Grand Ole Opry House, even though everyone still called it the Ryman. By becoming the owners of the building. National Life was able to make some much-needed repairs to the place to bring it up to code.

September 11, 1964: The Friday Night Frolics moved from WSM Studio C to the Ryman Auditorium and renamed the Friday Night Opry.

September 18, 1965: While the Opry recognizes an August date as to when she became a member of the Grand Ole Opry, this is the date that Connie first appeared on the Opry as a member. Also joining the cast of the Grand Ole Opry, the same day was Bob Luman. Regardless of the actual date, it has been 58 years since Connie originally became an Opry member. 

September 2, 1967: Standard Candy Company, the makers of the famous Goo Goo Clusters, became an Opry sponsor. Standard Candy would remain with the Opry until January 2006, when the company elected not to renew the sponsorship. At the time, the Opry was changing how they viewed the sponsorship of the show, deciding to go with presenting sponsors at an additional cost for advertisers. 

September 16, 1967: Jeannie Seely became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Jeannie was one of the first female artists to host a segment at the Opry on a regular basis. Now entering her 57th year as an Opry member, Jeannie has become one of the most reliable regulars on the show and it should be pointed out, that unlike a few of her fellow Opry members, once Jeannie joined the Opry, she has never left. Jeannie also holds the distinction of appearing on the Opry more than any other member in the history of the show, over 5,000 times. 

September 19, 1968: Former Grand Ole Opry member Red Foley passed away in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Red came to the Opry in 1946 and stayed for a decade before moving on to Springfield, Missouri. While at the Opry, he was the host of the Prince Albert portion of the show. He passed away while on a tour.

September 13, 1969: Earl Scruggs made his first appearance as a solo member of the Grand Ole Opry. Earlier in the year, he and Lester Flatt ended their partnership, with each pursuing solo careers. On the Opry that night, Earl performed "Foggy Mountain Breakdown" with his sons Gary and Randy.

September 20, 1969: Bobby Bare rejoined the cast of the Grand Ole Opry. Bobby would stay as a member until he left the Opry in March 1974 when the Opry moved from the Ryman Auditorium to the new Grand Ole Opry House. In April 2018, the Opry surprised Bobby by restoring his Opry membership. Bobby is now retired and at last report, is doing well. 

September 13, 1975: Don Gibson, who was fired from the cast of the Grand Ole Opry in 1964, rejoined the Opry. While never appearing often on the Opry, it was nice to have Don back as a member and whenever he appeared, it was a special night.

September 17, 1977: Reba McEntire made her first guest appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. On that first night, Reba sang "Sweet Dreams" and "Invitation To The Blues." Several years later, Reba would become an Opry member.

September 1, 1978: Grand Ole Opry member Hank Snow hosted his first annual concert for abused children at the Grand Ole Opry House. Among Hank's guests that night were Conway Twitty, Loretta Lynn and Ernest Tubb. The shows would continue for several years before Hank ended the annual event.

September 9, 1978: Johnny Cash and Waylon Jennings made a guest appearance on the Opry. 

September 15, 1979: Stevie Wonder made a guest appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. He sang "Behind Closed Doors" in a duet with Skeeter Davis. That is a recording I would love to hear. 

September 6, 1984: Ernest Tubb passed away in a Nashville hospital after a long illness. Ernest had been in declining health for a number of years and had last appeared on the Opry in August 1982. He joined the Opry in 1943 and in 1965 Ernest was elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame. It can certainly be said, that in addition to Roy Acuff, Bill Monroe and Hank Snow, Ernest was one of the pillars of the Opry. 

September 13, 1984: President Ronald Reagan appeared for a tribute to Roy Acuff at the Grand Ole Opry House. Among those appearing that night were Minnie Pearl, Porter Wagoner, Lee Greenwood, Chet Atkins and Ray Stevens. The appearance was part of President Reagan's re-election campaign.

September 9, 1989: Del Wood made her final appearance as a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Del, who had joined the Opry in the early 1950s on the strength of her hit, "Down Yonder" passed away a month later at the age of 69 after suffering a stroke. Del was one of the artists who made it known that she didn't care for a lot of the younger acts appearing on the Opry. 

September 16, 1989: Chely Wright made her debut on the Grand Ole Opry. At one time, there was talk of Chely becoming a member of the Opry however her career took her in a different direction that did not include the Opry. 

September 4, 1991: Grand Ole Opry member Dottie West passed away in a Nashville hospital as a result of injuries suffered in an earlier car accident. Dottie had been a part of the Opry's cast since 1964. She had a great career and influenced a number of female artists.

September 4, 1992: Former Grand Ole Opry member Carl Butler died in Franklin, Tennessee. Carl first appeared on the Opry in 1948 and along with his wife Pearl, joined the cast in 1962. Not only was Carl a great singer, but he was also known as a fine songwriter. Carl and Pearl did not stay as Opry members for very long, and after leaving the Opry the couple continued to tour. After Pearl's death, Carl would occasionally appear on the Opry.

September 11, 1993: The Stoney Mountain Cloggers made their final appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. Margaret Smathers, the widow of Ben Smathers, made the decision that it was time to retire the group. On the final night, they were featured on the televised segment and Opry member Vince Gill made a special request to be on the Opry on that final night, and on their specific segments. 

September 29, 1993: Bob Whittaker became the general manager of the Grand Ole Opry, replacing Hal Durham who was promoted within the company. Bob would remain with the Opry until retiring in 1998. Some may be asking and yes, Bob is still alive today and in fact, was recently backstage at the Opry when The Isaacs were inducted as Opry members. 

September 6, 1996: Grand Ole Opry legend Hank Snow made his final appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. Hank was in declining health and made a low-key decision to retire. Hank passed away in 1999, just two weeks short of his 50th anniversary as a member of the Grand Ole Opry.

September 9, 1996: Grand Ole Opry, and bluegrass legend, Bill Monroe passed away, Bill had been in declining heath since suffering a stroke earlier in the year. Bill had been a member of the Grand Ole Opry since 1939, and he brought the sound of bluegrass to the Opry stage.

September 13, 1996: LeAnn Rimes made her debut on the Friday Night Opry. She performed three songs that night including her hit single "Blue," which was written by the legendary Bill Mack.

September 20, 1996: Grand Ole Opry member Jimmy Dickens returned to the Opry after a two-month absence due to vocal issues. Those of us who remember Jimmy in his final years at the Opry know that those vocal issues would never completely go away. 

September 20, 1997: During a guest appearance on the Opry, Johnny Paycheck was asked by Opry general manager Bob Whittaker if he would like to become a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Of course, Johnny said yes and was inducted later in the year.

September 1, 1998: Martina McBride sings "Take Me Out To The Ballgame" at Chicago's Wrigley Field. Fellow Grand Ole Opry members Bill Anderson, Stu Phillips, Jimmy Dickens, Jeanne Pruett, Ray Pillow, Jan Howard, Jeannie Seely, Johnny Russell, Buck White and Jimmy C. Newman perform the national anthem.

September 12, 1998: President of the Grand Ole Opry Group Bob Whittaker announced his retirement. Bob had replaced Hal Durham as the Opry's general manager and later as Opry group president. Bob would eventually be replaced as the Opry's general manager by Pete Fisher, who took over the following June.

September 18, 1998: Paying tribute to her father, Hank Williams, Jett Williams performed "Your Cheatin' Heart" on the Grand Ole Opry. During her appearance, she told those attending that Hank never sang the song during any of his concert appearances. 

September 28, 2000: In preparation of the Grand Ole Opry's 75th anniversary, Governor Don Sundquist declared October as Grand Ole Opry month in the state of Tennessee. He was joined at the announcement ceremony by Opry members Martina McBride and Little Jimmy Dickens.

September 29, 2000: Future Grand Ole Opry member Keith Urban made his first solo guest appearance on the Opry. 

September 28, 2002: After an absence of 10 years, Tanya Tucker made a guest appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. She was joined on stage by the Jordanaires as she performed her debut hit "Delta Dawn."

September 13, 2003: The United States Postal Service unveiled a stamp featuring Roy Acuff. The ceremony took place at the Grand Ole Opry House. The portrait on the stamp was based on a photo that appeared in a 1949 edition of "Collier's" magazine. On that same night, Vince Gill and members of the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band performed a tribute to Roy on at the Grand Ole Opry.

September 20, 2004: Grand Ole Opry member Skeeter Davis passed away in Nashville at the age of 72. Skeeter had battled cancer and other health related issues for a number of years. Skeeter was always known for her bright outfits and her big smile that brought a lot of joy to those watching her perform.

September 23, 2004: Just days after the death of Skeeter Davis, another long time Grand Ole Opry member passed away as Roy Drusky died after a battle with lung cancer. Roy joined the Opry in the late 1950s and was known for his smooth voice and great ballad songs.

September 10, 2005: Future Grand Ole Opry member Jamey Johnson made first guest appearance on the Opry. It took a while, but finally a few years ago, Jamey was invited to become an Opry member, something that he had wanted for a long time. 

September 8, 2007: Grand Ole Opry member Hank Locklin made his final appearance on the Grand Ole Opry.

September 29, 2007: During a guest appearance on the Grand Ole Opry, Josh Turner was asked by Roy Clark if he would like to become the newest member of the Grand Ole Opry. Of course, Josh said yes and would join the cast a month later. Also, on the same night, Porter Wagoner made his final Saturday night appearance on the Opry.

September 18, 2008:  As Craig Morgan sang "Rose Colored Glasses," Grand Ole Opry member John Conlee walked on stage during a free show for soldiers at Fort Bragg in Fayetteville, North Carolina, to invite Craig to become a member of the Grand Ole Opry. 

September 27, 2008: Grand Ole Opry member Marty Stuart celebrated his 50th birthday at the Grand Ole Opry. Appearing with Marty that night was Keith Urban, Dierks Bentley, Connie Smith and The Carolina Chocolate Drops, along with The Fabulous Superlatives.

September 28, 2010: The Grand Ole Opry House reopened after being renovated following the flood that stuck Nashville the previous May. Since the flood, the Opry had moved around to several different venues, with the majority of time spent at the Ryman Auditorium. On the reopening night, the final hour was televised by GAC and the segment opened with the cast coming out and singing "Will The Circle Be Unbroken." Brad Paisley and Jimmy Dickens led the way. Also, during that night's show, Blake Shelton was asked by Trace Adkins to become a member of the Grand Ole Opry.

September 13, 2011: Grand Ole Opry legend Wilma Lee Cooper passed away. Wilma and her husband Stoney joined the Opry in 1957, coming to Nashville from the WWVA Wheeling Jamboree. After Stoney's death, Wilma Lee continued on as a solo member of the Opry. In February 2001, she suffered a stroke while performing on the show, which ended her performing career. She did return to the Opry stage in 2007 upon her 50th anniversary as an Opry member, and again in September 2010 upon the reopening of the Grand Ole Opry House.

September 13, 2011: George Jones made his final appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. It was a show that celebrated George's 80th birthday and included Alan Jackson, Joe Diffie, Lee Ann Womack and the Oak Ridge Boys.

September 27, 2011: Rascal Flatts were invited to become the newest members of the Grand Ole Opry. They were officially inducted in October during the Opry's 86th birthday weekend. This will be their 13th year as Opry members. 

September 27, 2011: Johnny Wright passed away in Nashville. He was the husband of Kitty Wells and a former member of the Grand Ole Opry, performing as part of Johnny & Jack.

September 25, 2012: Loretta Lynn celebrated her 50th anniversary as a Grand Ole Opry member. Joining Loretta that night were Miranda Lambert, Crystal Gayle, Trace Adkins, Lee Ann Womack and Pistol Annies, making their Opry debut singing "Fist City."

September 6, 2014: Long time Grand Ole Opry member George Hamilton IV appeared on the Opry for the final time. During his performance, he sang his big hit "Abilene." After a short illness, George passed away several weeks later, on September 17.

September 29, 2015: "Grand Ole Opry 90th Anniversary Family Album" was published. The book featured all of the current and former Grand Ole Opry members, as well as a history of the Opry. The book has been updated a couple of times since, the most recent being earlier this year, now with the 97th edition being sold. 

September 25, 2016: Grand Ole Opry legend, and Country Music Hall of Fame member Jean Shepard passed away. Jean last appeared on the Opry in November 2015, when she was honored on her 60th anniversary as a member of the Grand Ole Opry, becoming the first female to have been an Opry member for that period of time. It should also be noted that once Jean joined the Opry, she took her Opry membership seriously and never left. And she was very vocal about that. 

September 8, 2017: Grand Ole Opry member Troy Gentry passed died as a result of a helicopter crash. Troy, who was half of the duo Montgomery Gentry, was 40. Along with Eddie Montgomery, the group joined the Opry on June 23, 2009. On the same day, former Grand Ole Opry member Don Williams passed away. Don had been a member in the 1970s, however he left the cast a few years after joining.

September 16, 2017: Grand Ole Opry member Jeannie Seely celebrated her 50th year as a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Even after 50 years of membership, Jeannie can be found most Friday and Saturday nights hosting a segment of the Opry, as she remains a popular member of the Opry.

September 22, 2017: Grand Ole Opry member Reba McEntire celebrated the 40th anniversary of her debut on the Opry. Joining Reba that night were Carrie Underwood, Vince Gill, and a surprise appearance by Dolly Parton.

September 18, 2018: Dustin Lynch became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. While his membership was a surprise to many, in his first five years as a member, Dustin has supported the show pretty well.

September 18, 2018: Bobby Bare made his final appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. 

September 25, 2018: Comedian Bill Murry made his debut on the Grand Ole Opry. Along with the SteelDrivers, he performed the classic song "Paradise."

September 3, 2019: A special exhibit honoring Dolly Parton and her 50 years as a member of the Grand Ole Opry, opened in Studio A at the Grand Ole Opry House. 

September 14, 2021: The Isaacs were formally inducted as members of the Grand Ole Opry. Ricky Skaggs and The Whites did the honors. The Isaacs had been longtime supporters of the Opry. 

September 28, 2021: Mandy Barnett was invited by Connie Smith to become the newest member of the Grand Ole Opry. At the time, Mandy had made over 500 guest appearances and was well deserving of being invited. 

There you have it for September. Another busy month at the Opry.