Tuesday Night Opry 4/29; Opry Country Classics 5/1

The big news from Saturday night as Vince Gill inviting Steve Earle to become the newest member of the Grand Ole Opry. Here is the official press release from the Opry: 

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - (April 26, 2025) – Multi-Grammy® Award winning Steve Earle was invited to become a member of the Grand Ole Opry tonight by Opry member and longtime friend Vince Gill. The Academy Award winner and Nashville Songwriter Hall of Fame member has been called one of the most influential singer/songwriters of the past 30 years. His songs have been covered by artists including Johnny Cash, Emmylou Harris, Waylon Jennings, Patty Loveless, Willie Nelson, Tom Petty, and Eric Clapton to name a few. Earle is the first artist invited to join the Opry in this, the Opry’s 100th year, and will officially be inducted later this year.

Gill took the stage after Earle’s performance of “Copperhead Road”, presenting Earle with a personalized guitar strap created in celebration of the Opry’s 100th. “You have to be an Opry member to have one of these,” Gill continued. “We want to invite you to become a member of the Grand Ole Opry.”  

Clearly moved, Earle said, “This is kind of the biggest thing that has ever happened to me in my life.” He then obliged Gill’s request for another song, “Hillbilly Highway.” 

About Steve Earle:

Steve Earle is one of the most acclaimed singer-songwriters of his generation. A protege of legendary songwriters Townes Van Zandt and Guy Clark, he quickly became a master storyteller in his own right. 1986 saw the release of his record Guitar Town, which shot to number one on the country charts and is now regarded as a classic of the Americana genre.

Earle’s 1988 hit “Copperhead Road” was made an official state song of Tennessee in 2023. His most recent album, Jerry Jeff (2022) consisted of Earle’s versions of songs written by Jerry Jeff Walker, one of his mentors. 

Earle has published both a novel I’ll Never Get Out Of This World Alive (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt 2011) and Dog House Roses, a collection of short stories (Houghton Mifflin 2003). Earle produced albums for other artists such as Joan Baez (Day After Tomorrow) and Lucinda Williams (Car Wheels On A Gravel Road).

As an actor, Earle has appeared in several films and had recurring roles in the HBO series “The Wire” and “Tremé.”  In 2017, Earle wrote music for and appeared in “Coal Country,” for which he was nominated for a Drama Desk Award. Earle is the host of the weekly show “Hard Core Troubadour” on SiriusXM Radio’s Outlaw Country channel.

In 2020, Earle was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame.  

As I have been reading on various sites over the past day, the news seems to have been well received. There are those who have their own personal favorites, but in my opinion, Steve understands what the Opry is all about and I firmly believe that he will make a good member. It has been a dream of his to be an Opry member. I get it that Steve's musical tastes are not for everybody, but that is what the Opry is all about: offering a variety of country music. Steve has been supportive of the Opry, generally appearing on a monthly basis. I am sure that will continue. 

Now moving on to the Tuesday Night Opry, there will be an Opry debut on Tuesday as HARDY will be making his first appearance on the show. He will be joined by members Dailey & Vincent, The Isaacs, Mandy Barnett and T. Graham Brown. Comedian Killer Beaz is also listed on the schedule. 

Tuesday April 29
7:00: Dailey & Vincent, T. Graham Brown, Kylie Frey, The Isaacs
Intermission
8:20: Mandy Barnett, Killer Beaz, Stephen Wilson Jr., HARDY

Opry Country Classics is back for another show on Thursday night. The Spotlight Artist this week is Craig Morgan. 

Opry Country Classics Thursday May 1
Host: Larry Gatlin
Spotlight Artist: Craig Morgan
Also Appearing: Gatlin Brothers, John Berry, Victoria Shaw, Mandy Barnett, Chapel Hart, Sierra Hull

Grand Ole Opry 4/25 & 4/26

Welcome to the final weekend of April. Here are a couple of pieces of news from the Grand Ole Opry from the past week: 

The Grand Ole Opry was recognized last week by the Tennessee House of Representatives in a special session held at the Tennessee State Capital in honor of the Opry's 100th anniversary. Introduced by Representative Jeremy Faison, the resolution recognized the Opry's century-long impact on American music and Tennessee culture, calling it "the heartbeat of Nashville."

Following the resolution, Opry members Dailey & Vincent performed the fan-favorite tribute in their home state, "I'll Leave My Heart in Tennessee" live on the chamber floor. "I'll Leave My Heart in Tennessee," was written by Karen Staley and performed by Dailey & Vincent, was named as an official Tennessee State Song in 2022. 

A wonderful honor for the Grand Ole Opry and I am sure there will be more of those as the year continues. 

As part of the continuing celebration of the Grand Ole Opry's 100th year, the Opry is offering Tennessee residents the opportunity to celebrate the home of country music wherever they go with the purchase of the new Opry License Plate. The specialty plate celebrates the Opry's 100th year on the air and features its iconic barn backdrop, microphone stand, and wooden circle, considered by many to be the home of country music. 

A portion of proceeds from each plate will go to the Opry Trust Fund, benefitting members of the country music industry in times of need. 

Currently this plate is available for Tennessee residents only. 

Taking a look at the Grand Ole Opry lineups for this week, once again we see Grand Ole Opry member Vince Gill on the schedule for both nights, joined by Hall of Fame songwriter Don Schlitz. Joining the pair on Friday night are Hall of Fame and Opry members, Connie Smith and Charlie McCoy, along with Eddie Montgomery and Mark Wills. 

Saturday night, in addition to Vince and Don, Riders In The Sky, John Conlee and The Isaacs are on the schedule. 

Only two non-members are scheduled each night: The Shootouts, who are in the process of releasing their new album, and Valarie June on Friday night, and Megan Patrick along with someone who I have said before should be an Opry member, Steve Earle. When Steve appeared on the Opry at the end of March, he mentioned that he has been making monthly appearances on the Opry. If that is the case, it would be nice to go ahead and ask him to become a member. 

Friday April 25
7:00: Mark Wills, Connie Smith, The Shootouts, Charlie McCoy
Intermission
8:20: Valerie June, Don Schlitz, Eddie Montgomery, Vince Gill

Saturday April 26
7:00: Opry Square Dancers, Riders In The Sky, John Conlee, Megan Patrick, Don Schlitz
Intermission
8:20: The Isaacs, Opry Square Dancers, Steve Earle, Vince Gill

Vince, who seems to record with just about everybody, has completed a project with The Shootouts for their new album so I would expect to see and hear Vince out with them on Friday Night. 

Continuing the look back at former Grand Ole Opry members during this, the Opry's 100th anniversary of the Grand Ole Opry, the spotlight this week is on Martha Carson, who joined the Opry on April 26, 1952. 

Martha Carson was known as the "Rockin' Queen of Happy Spirituals." Her gospel sound influenced numerous artists including Elvis Presley and Connie Smith. At the time of her death, Connie was quoted as saying: "She was the first Grand Ole Opry star I ever saw in person. I remember the way she played that guitar the red hair, the curls coming down the front. She was so energetic and so powerful: If she'd walked out of the building and kept singing on down the street, I believe everyone in that theater would have followed her." 

Born Irene Amburgey, she was inspired, along with older sister Berthy and younger sister Opal, by their dad, a miner and farmer who played gospel with his wife. As the Sunshine Sisters, they worked in rural Kentucky in 1936. At Kentucky’s Renfro Valley Barn Dance, they briefly served as members of the legendary Coon Creek Girls before joining Atlanta’s WSB Barn Dance around 1939 as the Hoot Owl Holler Girls. Berthy was “Mattie,” Irene was dubbed “Martha,” and Opal became “Minnie.”

In 1939 Martha married WSB gospel singer-mandolinist James Roberts, son of old-time musician Fiddlin’ Doc Roberts. She sang at the show with her sisters and did gospel duets with James. They became James and Martha Carson after an announcer misidentified them on the air. Signed to Capitol in the late ’40s, the Carsons created unforgettable sacred performances such as “He Will Set Your Fields On Fire”.

The Carsons were at Knoxville’s WNOX when they divorced, a messy affair that left Martha distraught. During that period, she wrote the sacred song “Satisfied” while touring with singer Bill Carlisle. It became a gospel standard. 

After RCA signed her in 1955, she embraced a radically different pop gospel style. A&R man Steve Sholes recorded her in Manhattan with boisterous choirs and slick, rococo accompaniment by first-rate studio musicians, all big-band era veterans. 

After joining the Grand Ole Opry, Martha quickly became a favorite of Opry fans who loved her hand clapping, bouncy, spirited gospel singing. She was on the Opry steadily until her first child was born in 1957 and then she took a leave of absence, which also included a year of working in New York. "I got a leave of absence from the Opry. I didn't quit and I wasn't fired. When I came back to Nashville, Opry manager Ott Devine said they had no openings." She concluded by saying "I never did go back. I never even got to be a guest." 

That wasn't quite correct, and while it took a while, Martha did come back and make a few guest appearances on the Opry. Not many. While she didn't appear on the Opry all that often, she did host the Ernest Tubb Midnight Jamboree a few times. Those were always special nights. 

Here is the lineup from the Grand Ole Opry, Saturday June 13, 1970, one of the nights that Martha Carson returned to the Opry: 

1st show
6:30: Mrs. Grissoms
Willis Brothers (host): Just Because
Jack Barlow: Child Bride
Louie Roberts: Melissa
Willis Brothers: A Bible On The Table

6:45: Rudy's
Stu Phillips (host): You Win Again/Release Me
Liz Anderson: Husband Hunting
Hager Twins: Going Home To Your Mother

7:00: Luzianne
Bill Monroe (host): Uncle Pen
Hank Locklin: Hello, Darling
Stringbean: Little Pink
Jeanne Pruett: King Sized Bed
Bill Monroe: Rawhide
Johnny Carver: Proud Mary
Hank Locklin: Country Hall Of Fame
Bill Monroe: Precious Memories

7:30: Standard Candy
Billy Grammer (host): Wabash Cannonball
Susan Raye: One Night Stand/Put A Little Love In Your Heart
Leroy Van Dyke: Jambalaya
Crook Brothers: Ida Red
Billy Grammer: God Will Take Care Of You
Leroy Van Dyke: An Old Love Affair Now Showing
Billy Grammer: Gotta Travel On

8:00: Martha White
Roy Acuff (host): Little Pal
Martha Carson: Just A Little Closer Walk With Thee
Bill Carlisle: Dirty Old Man
Lorrie Mann: Is Anybody Going To San Antono
Roy Acuff: The Great Speckled Bird
Martha Carson: Old Blind Barnabas
Bill Carlisle: I'm Moving
Roy Acuff: Cabin In Gloryland

8:30: Stephens
Billy Walker (host): Charlie's Shoes/Thanking 'Bout You Babe
Marion Worth: Okie From Muskogee
Billy Troy: The Fighting Side Of Me
Fruit Jar Drinkers: (?)
Billy Walker: When A Man Loves A Woman
Marion Worth: I Fall To Pieces
Billy Walker: How Great Thou Art

2nd show
9:30: Kellogg's
Willis Brothers (host): Give Me 40 Acres
Susan Raye: One Night Stand
Hager Twins: Going Home To Your Mother/Jesse James
Willis Brothers: Private Lee
Jack Barlow: Birmingham Blues
Susan Raye: Down In The Boondocks
Willis Brothers: If I Can Help Somebody

10:00: Fender
Stu Phillips (host): Crystal Chandeliers
Stringbean: Ruby, Are You Mad
Liz Anderson: He Taught Me To Yodel
Stu Phillips: Juanita Jones

10:15: Union 76
Hank Locklin (host0: Send Me The Pillow You Dream On
Jeanne Pruett: Today I Started Loving You Again
Louie Roberts: Baby, Baby/Tonight Carmen/Singing The Blues
Hank Locklin: Danny Boy

10:30: Trailblazer
Bill Monroe (host): A Used To Be
Bill Carlisle: No Help Wanted
Lorene Mann: Warm & Tender Love
James William Monroe: Bonnie

10:45: Beechnut
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Martha Carson: Amazing Grace
Crook Brothers: Mississippi Sawyer
Roy Acuff: No One Will Ever Know

11:00: Coca Cola
Billy Walker (host): Cross The Brazos At Waco
Billy Grammer: Detroit City
Leroy Van Dyke: Be A Good Girl 'Til I Get Back In Town
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Katy Hill
Billy Walker: Darling Days
Billy Grammer: Beautiful Isle Of Somewhere
Leroy Van Dyke: Auctioneer
Sam McGee: Folsom Prison Blues
Billy Walker: Cattle Call

11:30: Lava
Marty Robbins (host): Devil Woman
Marion Worth: Okie From Muskogee
Johnny Carver: Your Lily-White Hands
Billy Troy: The Fighting Side Of Me
Ronnie Robbins: It Finally Happened/Love Of The Common People/That's How It Feels To Walk In My Shoes
Marty Robbins: I'm So Afraid Of Losing You Again/Wedding Bells/I Could Never Be Ashamed Of You/Big Boss Man/Don't Worry

And no, she did not sing "Satisfied" that night. 

Martha Carson passed away on December 16, 2004 after an extended illness. 

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

Mid-Week Opry Shows 4/22, 4/23 & 4/24

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

On the schedule are Opry members Bill Anderson, Dailey & Vincent and Charlie McCoy. Opry NextStage artist Josh Ross is listed, as is singer/songwriter Erin Enderlin, Rhett Walker, Billy Dean and Maggie Baugh. 

Tuesday April 22
7:00: Dailey & Vincent, Bill Anderson, Maggie Baugh, Rhett Walker
Intermission
8:20: Billy Dean, Erin Enderlin, Josh Ross, Charlie McCoy

The Wednesday Night Opry features members Rhonda Vincent and Riders In The Sky. Opry NextStage artists Madeline Edwards and Chayce Beckham are scheduled, as is Walker Montgomery, Jason Crabb, Chapel Hart and making his Opry debut, James Bay. This will be the final Wednesday Night Opry until June. 

Wednesday April 23
7:00: Rhonda Vincent, Walker Montgomery, Riders In The Sky, Jason Crabb
Intermission
8:20: Madeline Edwards, James Bay, Chayce Beckham, Chapel Hart

Finally, Opry Country Classics rounds out the schedule, hosted as usual, by Larry Gatlin. Also appearing are The Gatlin Brothers, Opry member Mark Wills, and The Kody Norris Show and Billy Yates. 

Opry Country Classics Thursday April 24
Host: Larry Gatlin
Spotlight Artist: Mark Wills 
Also Appearing: Gatlin Brothers, The Kody Norris Show, Billy Yates

Last week, Larry was under the weather and did not appear. Let's just say he was really missed. 

Grand Ole Opry 4/18 & 4/19

The big news out of Nashville and the Grand Ole Opry this week is the release of the book 100 Years of Grand Ole Opry written by Craig Shelburne and the members of the Grand Ole Opry. 

The official book celebrating 100 years of the Grand Ole Opry—an intimate, gorgeously illustrated behind-the-scenes look at the American institution and world-renowned stage for country music

Since 1925, the Grand Ole Opry has left an undeniable mark on American culture. What began as an impromptu performance of old-time fiddle tunes has transformed into the longest-running radio broadcast in US history, as well as a live performance for millions of country music fans each year. Widely regarded as the show that made country music famous, the Opry has played an important role in the careers of country music’s biggest stars—including Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton, Loretta Lynn, Garth Brooks, Carrie Underwood, Luke Combs, and countless others—popularizing and preserving some of the most beloved forms of American music. 

As country music has broadened and its audience continues to grow, the Grand Ole Opry has evolved alongside the genre itself. This centennial celebration showcases the venerable institution’s history through lively never-before-seen photography and ephemera from years past, as well as behind-the-scenes stories from those who have paced backstage before career-defining performances, and those who have come to know the Opry as a second home. Replete with gorgeous illustrations and tributes from country music’s biggest names, 100 Years of Grand Ole Opry is a glorious, one-of-a-kind celebration, and a must-have for any country music fan. 

The book was officially released on April 15 and is over 350 pages. It can be ordered a number of ways: thru the Opry website, Amazon, or can be purchased in person at many local bookstores. I have my copy, and it is an outstanding book, well worth the price. It is well written and well put together. For whatever it is worth, I highly recommend the book. 

Now taking a look at the Grand Ole Opry shows for this weekend, Opry members Vince Gill and Ashley McBryde are on the schedule for both Friday and Saturday night. Joining the pair on the Friday Night Opry are Opry members John Conlee, Gary Mule Deer, and fresh from the release of his new album, Jon Pardi. On Saturday night, besides Vince and Ashley, Ricky Skaggs, Riders In The Sky, Connie Smith and, still the Opry's newest member, Steven Curtis Chapman are on the schedule. Who would have thought in the Opry's 100th year that we would be in the middle of April with no new member thus far in 2025. 

Guesting on Friday night will be Opry NextStage artist Avery Anna, along with Tami Neilson. The only non-member on Saturday night is singer/songwriter Erin Viancourt, who is making her Opry debut. 

Friday April 18
7:00: John Conlee, Avery Anna, Tami Neilson, Jon Pardi
Intermission
8:20: Ashley McBryde, Gary Mule Deer, Vince Gill

Saturday April 19
7:00: Opry Square Dancers, Ricky Skaggs, Erin Viancourt, Riders In The Sky, Steven Curtis Chapman
Intermission
8:20: Connie Smith, Opry Square Dancers, Ashley McBryde, Vince Gill

Any complaints? I didn't think so. 

Looking back through 100 years of Grand Ole Opry history, it was on Saturday April 19, 1947, that Roy Acuff returned to the Grand Ole Opry. 

On Sunday April 7, 1946, the following was printed in the Nashville Tennessean: 

Roy Acuff, Nashville hillbilly singer, has announced his retirement from the Grand Ole Opry program each Saturday night after more than eight years' continuous appearance on the show. He and his eight-piece band will tour the Atlantic Coast this summer from "Georgia to New England," he said. Later he will go to the Pacific Coast, where he said he has some movie contracts to fulfill. 

So, what led up to all of this: Basically, it was a salary dispute. At the time, Roy was the host of the Prince Albert portion of the Grand Ole Opry that aired on NBC radio. That segment was sponsored by the R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company. As the Opry's biggest star, he wanted to be recognized of that by not only the Opry, but also the national sponsor. When he was refused what he felt was a fair offer, he quit not only the Opry, but WSM radio. After Roy left, The William Esty and Company advertising agency, which managed the Reynolds account, conducted a survey to determine who should take over as the host of the Prince Albert portion of the program and after studying the results, Red Foley was hired. 

Early in 1947, Roy returned from a West Coast trip and was hospitalized. Among his first two visitors were Harry Stone and Ernest Tubb. According to Roy Acuff: 

Harry said, "Roy, the Opry is losing many of its people, and it looks like maybe we're going under if you don't come back and be with us. Come and help us out. We wish you would change your mind and come back." I replied, "Harry, if I mean that much to WSM and the Grand Ole Opry, I will come back and do everything I can to help the Opry at all times."

Here is the running order from that night 78 years ago, Saturday April 19, 1947, when Roy Acuff returned to the Grand Ole Opry after an absence of one year: 

8:00: Purina
Oklahoma Wranglers: Rocky Mountain Express
Eddy Arnold: You're Not My Darling Anymore
Crook Brothers: Black Mountain Rag
Uncle Dave Macon and Dorris: Wish You All Well
Eddy Arnold: Rocking Alone In An Old Rocking Chair
Rod Brasfield: Jokes
Oklahoma Wranglers: Old Indians Never Die
Annie Lou and Danny: Corn Bread And Molasses
Eddy Arnold: Chained To A Memory

8:30: Warren Paint and Color Co. 
Lew Childre: Fog On The Rio Grande
Paul Howard: Somebody Else's Trouble
Bill Monroe: Blue Moon Of Kentucky
Milton Estes: Cowboy Has To Sing
Clyde Moody: Leaf Of Love
Lew and Stringbean: Rabbit In The Log
Chubby Wise: Down Yonder
Marie and Clyde: Railroad Boomer
Possum Hunters: Miss Sally
Robert Lunn: Since They Put A Radio In The Henhouse
Jimmy Walker: Gone, Gone, Gone

9:00: Royal Crown Cola
Golden West Cowboys: Alabama Jubilee
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Billy In The Low Ground
Cowboy Copas: Texas Red
Texas Ruby: Kansas City Blues
Curly Fox: Farmer And His Mule
Bradley Kincaid: Billy Richardson's Last Ride
York Brothers: Life Can Never Be The Same
Cowboy Copas: Tragic Romance
Johnnie and Jack: This World Can't Stand Love
Shorty Boyd: 8th Of January

9:30: Prince Albert
Red Foley: Tennessee Central No. 9
Square Dance: Turkey In The Straw
Roy Acuff: The Great Speckled Bird
Oak Ridge Quartet: Blind Bartemus
Ernest Tubb: There's Gonna Be Some Changes Made Around Here
Red Foley: I'll Never Let You Go Little Darling
Minnie Pearl: Jokes
Roy Acuff: Wait For The Light To Shine
Instrumental: Carless Love
Square Dance: Leather Britches

10:00: Wall-Rite
Earl Scruggs: Why Did You Wander
Bill and Lester: True Life Blues
Uncle Dave Macon and Dorris: Pleasure Down On The Farm
Quartet: Shining Path
Lester: Have I Told You Lately That I Love You

10:15: Weatherhouse
Paul Howard: There's A Big Rock In The Road
Lew and Stringbean: Roll On Buddy Roll On
Clyde Moody: Where The Old Red River Flows
Johnny and Jack: Sing Tom Kitty
Possum Hunters: Old Rat

10:30: Cherokee Mills
Roy Acuff: No One Will Ever Know
Rachel and Oswald: Columbus Stockade Blues
Curly Fox and Ruby: Did You Ever Go Sailing
Jimmy: My Life's Been A Pleasure
Jug Band: Detour
Arthur Smith: Kicking Mule

10:45: Southern Woodenware
Golden West Cowboys: Tennessee Waltz
Bill Monroe: My Rose Of Old Kentucky
Bradley Kincaid: Granny's Old Arm Chair
Crook Brothers: The Old Account Was Settled
Golden West Cowboys: Cowboy's Special

11:00: Eddy Arnold Songbook
Eddy Arnold: I Couldn't Believe It Was True
Lily Belle: You Only Want Me When You're Lonely
Lonzo and Oscar: John Henry
Eddy Arnold: You Can't Break The Chains Of Love

11:15: Ernest Tubb Songbook
Ernest Tubb: Rainbow At Midnight
Hal Smith: Joe Turner Blues
Dot and Smokey: Let's Pretend
Ernest Tubb: I'm Telling You

11:30: Saf-Kill
Wally Fowler: Waiting For My Call To Glory
Oklahoma Wranglers: A No-Good Son Of A Gun
Curly Fox: Bully Of The Town
York Brothers: Life Can Never Be The Same
Gully Jumpers: Dance All Night

11:45: Michigan Bulb
Milton Estes: I'm Writing You Darling Through Tears
Jimmy Walker and Robert Lunn: I'd Trade All My Tomorrows
Kirk McGee: I'm Gonna Be Boss From Now On
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Chinese Breakdown
Milton Estes: I Don't Care

On the night of his return, he did not host the Prince Albert segment but was a guest. Beginning the following week, April 26, Roy would take over as the host of the Royal Crown segment of the Opry, with Red Foley remaining the host of the Prince Albert show. As history shows, once Roy returned to the Opry, he never left. 

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

Mid-Week Opry Shows 4/15; 4/16 & 4/17

 It's another full week of shows at the Grand Ole Opry House. 

The Tuesday Night Opry has members Riders In The Sky, Del McCoury and comedian Henry Cho on the schedule. Opry NextStage artist Priscilla Block will be appearing as will the legendary group, Asleep At The Wheel. 

Tuesday April 15
7:00: Riders In The Sky, Priscilla Block, Chancey Williams, Home Free
Intermission
8:20: Del McCoury Band, Henry Cho, Runaway June, Asleep At The Wheel

Opry members Ricky Skaggs and Charlie McCoy haven't made many Opry appearances thus far in 2025, but both will be appearing on the Wednesday Night Opry, along with Connie Smith and Gary Mule Deer. Opry NextStage artist Anne Wilson is scheduled as are bluegrass artists Darin & Brooke Aldridge. Closing out the show will be Shenandoah. 

Wednesday April 16
7:00: Ricky Skaggs, Connie Smith, Shane Profitt, Charlie McCoy
Intermission
8:20: Darin & Brooke Aldridge, Gary Mule Deer, Anne Wilson, Shenandoah

Finally, Opry Country Classics on Thursday night will feature Rhonda Vincent as the Spotlight Artist. Also on the schedule is Opry member T. Graham Brown. 

Opry Country Classics Thursday April 17
Host: Larry Gatlin
Spotlight Artist: Rhonda Vincent
Also Appearing: Gatlin Brothers, Shelly Fairchild, T. Graham Brown, Bryce Leatherwood

Grand Ole Opry 4/11 & 4/12

When the Grand Ole Opry announced plans for Opry 100, the plans included a series of tribute shows that would honor past Opry members. Last weekend, the following was announced: 

As part of its ongoing Opry 100 celebration, the Grand Ole Opry, presented by Humana, is set to launch "Opry 100 Honors" on May 13. The special series of Opry 100 Honor shows, sponsored by Dan Post, will pay tribute to several of the icons who have helped shape the Opry's first century. The first show will honor Loretta Lynn (May 13), followed by shows paying tribute to Johnny Cash & June Carter Cash (June 18) and Charlie Daniels (July 8). Additional shows will be announced soon. 

"As we continue our Opry 100 celebration, we're excited to open the door to the Opry's next century and to laud each of the Opry's current members. It's also important to us to honor some of the iconic artists of the past who helped the Opry achieve worldwide acclaim and ensured the show's longevity. We're looking forward to this series featuring the music of artists who became household names and whose legacies the Opry will still be celebrating in another 100 years," said Dan Rogers, Opry executive producer. 

Currently the Loretta Lynn tribute on May 13 will include Opry members Crystal Gayle, Martina McBride, Carly Pearce, Ashley McBryde, along with Emmy Russell and Twitty & Lynn. 

The tribute to Johnny Cash & June Carter Cash on June 18 currently includes Opry members Lainey Wilson, The Gatlin Brothers, along with John Carter Cash and Ana Cristina Cash, Carlene Carter and The Tennessee Four. 

Finally, the Charlie Daniels tribute on July 8 includes Opry members Trace Adkins, Jamey Johnson and Chris Young, along with Gretchen Wilson. 

It would appear that the plan might be to schedule one of these tribute shows on a monthly basis, and if so, I am looking forward to seeing who else the Opry honors. 

Now looking at this week's weekend shows at the Grand Ole Opry, the Friday Night Opry has Opry members Mandy Barnett, T. Graham Brown and The Isaacs on the schedule. The Malpass Brothers, who have made the trip to Nashville this week, are also on the schedule, along with Jim Lauderdale, Abbey Cone, Payton Smith and comedian Andrew Stanley. 

On Saturday night, Opry members Bill Anderson, Rhonda Vincent, Gene Watson, Don Schlitz and Gary Mule Deer head up the schedule, along with Opry NextStage artist Dasha, Jessica Willis Fisher and Drew Baldridge. 

Friday April 11
7:00: Mandy Barnett, Payton Smith, Jim Lauderdale, The Isaacs
Intermission
8:20: Abbey Cone, Andrew Stanley, The Malpass Brothers, T. Graham Brown

Saturday April 12
7:00: Opry Square Dancers, Rhonda Vincent, Drew Baldridge, Jessica Willis Fisher, Bill Anderson
Intermission
8:20: Gene Watson, Opry Square Dancers, Gary Mule Deer, Dasha, Don Schlitz

For this week's look back, it was on Saturday April 12, 1986, that the Grand Ole Opry held their annual reunion show.

From the Tennessean: 

The Grand Ole Opry welcomes back some of the great musicians from its glorious past during tomorrow night's 13th Annual Homecoming Show. Performances by Chet Atkins, Zeke Clements, Curly Fox, Pee Wee King, The Jordanaires and Clyde Moody are scheduled for both early and late Opry shows, said Opry publicist Jerry Strobel. 

"They'll be performing at different times throughout the night," Strobel said. "The idea is to bring back people who had been members of the Opry and had a dramatic impact on country music. We want to let the fans hear some of the great artists and to let the artists renew old acquaintances backstage."

The first such Homecoming Show was held in February 1973 in the Opry's former Ryman Auditorium home in downtown Nashville, Strobel said. Since the country music institution's move to Opryland, the even has been scheduled annually in early spring. 

Country Music Hall of Fame member Atkins now enjoys international renown as a guitarist and music business figure, but he was just a 22-year-old band musician from East Tennessee when he made his Opry debut with Red Foley's band in 1946. 

Country radio barn dance veteran Clements began his career in the 1920s at the National Barn Dance in Chicago and also starred at the Hollywood Barn Dance and at Midwest radio stations KHJ and WHO before coming to the Opry in the 1940s. Singer-Songwriter Clement, who supplied the voice of the dwarf "Bashful" in Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, was also the duet partner of honky-tonk singing cowgirl Texas Ruby

Famous trick fiddler Fox is another former duet partner of Texas Ruby, known as the "Sophie Tucker of the Hillbillies." After Ruby's death in the 1960s, Fox continued to delight audiences with his comic mule imitations and fancy fiddle techniques. 

Legendary vocal group The Jordanaires became Grand Ole Opry members in 1949 but made the move that took them from regional fame to international acclaim in 1956, when they made the first of a long series of records backing pop music immortal Elvis Presley.

Singer-accordionist King made his place in country music history secure when he and duet partner Redd Stewart sat down one night in 1946 and wrote Tennessee Waltz, one of the all-time hits of the genre. 

Guitarist, songwriter and vocalist Moody won fame both as a pioneering member of Bill Monroe's Bluegrass boys and as a bandleader in his own right.  

Now, here is the running order from that night 39 years ago: 

1st show

6:30: Bonanza
Jimmy Dickens (host): I'm Little But I'm Loud

Zeke Clements: Tennessee Skies/Just A Little Lovin'

Jimmy Dickens: My Eyes Are Jealous/Out Behind The Barn

6:45: Rudy's

Stonewall Jackson (host): Muddy Water

Jan Howard: Rockin' With You

Stonewall Jackson: Ol' Chunk Of Coal

7:00: Shoney's
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball

Chet Atkins: San Antonio Stroll/Under The Double Eagle

Pee Wee King: Tennessee Waltz

Bill Carlisle: No Help Wanted

Roy Acuff: Jesus Will Outshine Them All

7:30: Standard Candy
Bill Monroe (host): Uncle Pen

Jean Shepard: I'll Sail My Ship Alone

Clyde Moody: I Know What It Means To Be Lonesome

Billy Walker: Funny How Time Slips Away

Crook Brothers & The Melvin Sloan Dancers: Sally Goodin

Bill Monroe: My Little Georgia Rose/Wheel Hoss

8:00: Martha White
Archie Campbell (host): Make Friends

Connie Smith: That's The Way Love Goes

Jack Greene: There Goes My Everything

Roy Drusky: Chattanooga Shoeshine Boy/Have I Stayed Away Too Long

8:30: Music Valley Drive

Hank Snow (host): I'm Moving On

Del Reeves: A Dozen Pair Of Boots

Jordanaires: It's Gonna Rain

The Whites: Hangin' Around/Jole Blon
Hank Snow: Wheels/Snow In Hawaii

2nd show

9:30: Dollar General

Bill Monroe (host): John Henry

The 4 Guys: Wings Of A Dove

Lorrie Morgan: Stand By Your Man

Charlie Louvin: Nobody's Darling But Mine

Jeanne Pruett: Satin Sheets

Bill Monroe: Cryin' Holy Unto The Lord

Blake Williams: Shuckin' The Corn

10:00: Little Debbie

Jimmy Dickens (host): Geraldine

Jeannie Seely: Tell Me Again

Ray Pillow: Congratulations

Jimmy Dickens: She Always Got What She Wanted

10:15: Sunbeam

Roy Acuff (host): Meeting In The Air

Chet Atkins: Kentucky/Wheels

Wilma Lee Cooper: Wildwood Flower

Roy Acuff: I Saw The Light

10:30: Heinz

Archie Campbell (host): Make Friends/Rindercella

Pee Wee King: Deck Of Cards/Tennessee Waltz

10:45: Heil-Quaker

Jack Greene (host): Try A Little Kindness

Jean Shepard: Second Fiddle

Crook Brothers & The Melvin Sloan Dancers: Sail Away Ladies

Jack Greene: She Don't Cry

11:00: Coca Cola

Hank Snow (host): Golden Rocket

Justin Tubb: Thanks Troubadour, Thanks

Clyde Moody: Shenandoah Valley Waltz

The Whites: Hometown Gossip/Angel Band

Hank Snow: Trouble In Mind

11:30: Quincey's

Del Reeves (host): Two Dollars In The Jukebox/A Dime At A Time/Looking At The World Through A Windshield

Roy Drusky: Tennessee Border/What About You

Del Reeves: Got A Little Bit Of Heaven On Earth/Good Hearted Woman

(Curly Fox was scheduled for both shows but cancelled).

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

Mid-Week Opry Shows 4/8; 4/9 & 4/10

Opry100 continues with another full week of shows beginning with the Tuesday Night Opry and concluding with Opry Country Classics on Thursday night with a show dedicated to Grand Ole Opry member Bobby Bare, who is celebrating his 90th birthday. 

Beginning with the Tuesday Night Opry, Opry members Mandy Barnett, Craig Morgan and Rhonda Vincent are on the schedule. Comedian John Crist, and bluegrass will be represented by Chris Jones & The Night Drivers. 

Tuesday April 8
7:00: Mandy Barnett, Chris Jones & The Night Drivers, Travis Denning, Craig Morgan
Intermission
8:20: Jenna Paulette, John Crist, Drake Milligan, Rhonda Vincent

Now turning to the Wednesday Night Opry, Opry members Lady A, Lauren Alaina and Dailey & Vincent are scheduled to appear. Another name on the schedule is songwriter Tom Douglas, who a few years back did a series of shows in the Circle Room. In addition, Rhett Akins is scheduled. 

Wednesday April 9
7:00: Dailey & Vincent, Karley Scott Collins, Rhett Akins, Lauren Alaina
Intermission
8:20: Alyssa Bonagura, Tom Douglas, Lady A

The week concludes with Opry Country Classics on Thursday night, dedicated to Bobby Bare. 

Opry Country Classics Thursday April 10
Host: Larry Gatlin
Spotlight Artist: Jamey Johnson
Also Appearing: Gatlin Brothers, Sunny Sweeney, The Malpass Brothers, Don Schlitz

Bobby Bare is being celebrated with an entire week of shows in Nashville. In addition to Thursday night at the Opry, there will be shows Monday night at the Basement East, Wednesday night at The Bluebird Cafe and Saturday at the Country Music Hall of Fame. All of the shows will be hosted by Bobby Bare Jr. Bobby Bare Jr. did note that his father will be unable to attend any of the shows, which will be livestreamed so Bobby and his wife will be able to watch from their home. 

It looks like another fine week of shows. 

Grand Ole Opry 4/4 & 4/5

Like many of you, I receive via email, Bill Anderson's monthly newsletter. In the April edition, which arrived on Tuesday morning, the following caught my attention: 

And speaking of the Opry, just because the TV special is over don't make the mistake of thinking the 100Year celebration is over, too, because it's not. It will go on through the end of 2025. Each current Opry performer will have a night dedicated to them, and my night will be Tuesday July 15th which marks the date I joined the show 64-years ago. I'm not sure just what all will take place that night, but it promises to be exciting. I'd love for as many of you as possible to be here, but if you can't be, I hope you'll make plans to be listening. I'll tell you more as the time approaches.

While we have all heard that the Opry was going to have special tribute shows during 2025, this is the first that I have heard that every current Grand Ole Opry member will have a night dedicated to them. While it's not guaranteed that every Opry member will show up on his or her special night, hopefully most will. I will also add that hopefully the Opry will dedicate shows to Opry members who are no longer with us or have retired. If so, I would assume that a few of those shows would take place on Opry Country Classics. Like many, I am looking forward to seeing what the Opry comes up with. 

Now looking ahead to the shows this weekend, Grand Ole Opry member Mark Wills is on the schedule for both nights, making it two weekends in a row. Also on the Friday night schedule are Opry members Eddie Montgomery, Don Schlitz, Del McCoury and Connie Smith. Connie was on the schedule for last weekend but did not appear. Hopefully she is better this weekend. 

Saturday night, in addition to Mark, Crystal Gayle, T. Graham Brown and Riders In The Sky are listed. 

Looking at the non-members on the schedule, comedian Dusty Slay is listed on the schedule for both Friday and Saturday night. Joining Dusty on Friday night is Opry NextStage artist Tigirlily Gold and Mike Farris. On Saturday night, The Wilder Blue, Camille Parker and, making their Opry debut, Danny Paisley & The Southern Grass. 

Friday April 4
7:00: Mark Wills, Connie Smith, Tigirlily Gold, Del McCoury Band
Intermission
8:20: Mike Farris, Dusty Slay, Eddie Montgomery, Don Schlitz

Saturday April 5
7:00: Opry Square Dancers, Mark Wills, Riders In The Sky, Camille Parker, T Graham Brown 
Intermission
8:20: Danny Paisley & The Southern Grass, Opry Square Dancers, Dusty Slay, The Wilder Blue, Crystal Gayle

As I am sure you can guess, Danny Paisley & The Southern Grass is a bluegrass band, and a pretty good one. Southern Grass was founded by Bob Paisley, Danny's father, and after he passed away in 2004, Danny took over as the leader of the group.  The group has been given over 20 Bluegrass Music Award Nominations and won the 2009 IBMA Song of the Year for Don’t Throw Mama’s Flowers Away. In 2024, Danny Paisley joined an elite group of vocalists to be awarded the IBMA Male Vocalist of the Year for the fourth time - an achievement bestowed only to three others in the history of Bluegrass music.

The group’s latest release, Bluegrass Troubadour, was nominated for IBMA’s Album of the Year and earned significant chart action, with the song Blink of an Eye spending several months at the #1 spot on the Bluegrass music charts and was also nominated for IBMA Song of the Year.

With Danny Paisley on guitar, Southern Grass continues the family tradition by adding Danny’s son Ryan on mandolin, the next generation of up-and-coming pickers. Southern Grass continues the rich musical heritage started by Bob Paisley and Ted Lundy with Lundy’s sons T.J. (Fiddle) and Bobby (Bass and Vocals). T.J. Lundy is a highly respected fiddler bridging the gap between old-time fiddling and bluegrass music. Bobby Lundy is also a renowned multi-instrumentalist who has gained attention for his unique bass style. Southern Grass also includes Dean Phillips on banjo.

This week the Spotlight is on Skeeter Davis as it was 50 years ago Saturday night, April 5, 1975, that Skeeter returned to the Opry after being suspended from the show in December 1973. 

From The Tennessean: 

Two ladies of lasting musical magic made long awaited returns to the Grand Ole Opry on Saturday night. Skeeter Davis, suspended from the Opry some 16 months ago, and Rosemary Clooney, making her first appearance in 22 years were all smiles and excitement. 

Miss Davis' return marked the end of an indefinite suspension from the Opry that began in December 1973, and which strained relationships between Miss Davis and both Opry officials and some of her fellow entertainers. The suspension was precipitated by comments Miss Davis made during an Opry performance in defense of members of a religious group who had been arrested for allegedly harassing customers in a Nashville shopping center. "They've arrested 15 people just for telling people that Jesus loves them. That really burdens my heart, so I thought I would come to the Opry tonight and sing," Miss Davis was quoted as saying. 

Grand Ole Opry Manager E.W. "Bud" Wendell, (now general manager of the Opryland complex), later talked with Miss Davis about the remark, and suspension resulted. Wendell has never discussed the suspension publicly and Saturday night, Miss Davis steered the conversation away from the past and into the more congenial present. "The timing was bad," she said of the incident and the reaction to it. "The police took it personal, and it wasn't. I don't think we should even go into that," she said. 

Hal Durham, who became manager of the Opry last year, said, "All I can say is the differences have been resolved, and we're very happy to have her back." Introduced to the Opry audience by Billy Grammer, Miss Davis came on to say, "This is a song I'd Like to dedicate to all of you because I Love all of you so much." Then she sang "I Can't Help It If I'm Still In Love With You."

Greeted with warm hugs backstage by many of her old friends, Miss Davis' performance was received just as warmly by the capacity crowd. "It's hard to realize it's been 16 months," Miss Davis said, again backstage. "It's interesting to find that people were concerned all along about when I would be back." The suspension, she said, hurt her career in some ways, but in other ways, "it opened a lot of doors for me." The open doors included religious concerts as well as appearances on a number of religious television programs, which she said pay very well. "I wouldn't have survived this last year with just my country concerts," she said. Now she expects her bookings to pick back up as she makes more appearances on the Opry and gets back into the studio to do some recording. 

Summing up her feelings about the suspension and her return, Miss Davis referred to the time of year and the good things that have happened. "It's just Spring, love. Everything is good in the springtime," she said. "I've been preaching all the years I've been here. It was just an incident that happened that God took advantage of."

Here is the running order from the 1st show that featured the return of Skeeter Davis, on Saturday April 5, 1975: 

6:30: Mrs. Grissoms
Charlie Louvin (host): Freight Train Boogie
Bill Carlisle: Too Old To Cut The Mustard
Charlie Louvin: When You Have To Fly Alone/See The Big Man Cry

6:45: Rudy's
Ray Pillow (host): Countryfied
Stu Phillips: She Thinks I Still Care
Del Wood: The Entertainer
Ray Pillow: The Simple Things In Life

7:00: Rudy's
Billy Grammer (host): Lonesome Road Blues
Skeeter Davis: I Can't Help It
Lonzo & Oscar: When I Stop Dreaming
Ernie Ashworth: The Hight Cost Of Living
Skeeter Davis: Bus Fare To Kentucky
Billy Grammer: What A Friend

7:30: Standard Candy
Charlie Walker (host): Pick Me Up On Your Way Down
Jimmy C Newman: Thibodeaux Cajun Band
Marion Worth: Delta Dawn
Jim & Jesse: Ashes Of Love
Charlie Walker: The Last Supper
Crook Brothers & The Stoney Mountain Cloggers: Old Joe Clark
Jimmy C Newman: Before The Next Teardrop Falls
Charlie Walker: Good Deal Lucille

8:00: Martha White
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Jeanne Pruett: Just Like Your Daddy
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper: Poor Ellen Smith
Justin Tubb: Sunshine Lady
Roy Acuff: Carry Me Back To The Mountains
Jeanne Pruett: Hold To My Unchanging Love/Love Me/You Don't Need To Move A Mountain/Satin Sheets
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper: There's A Big Wheel

8:30: Stephens
Jack Greene (host) & Jeannie Seely: If You're Going Down
Jeannie Seely: Catfish John
Willis Brothers: Truck Stop
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Soldier's Joy
The 4 Guys: Another Somebody Done Somebody Wrong Song
Jack Greene: There Goes My Everything
Jeannie Seely: He Can Be Mine

(As an FYI, Rosemary Clooney appeared only on the late show that night)

Skeeter Davis made her Grand Ole Opry debut on September 26, 1953, joining the cast in 1959. She made her last Opry appearance on December 30, 2000. She stopped performing due to reoccurring health issues that led to her death in September 2004. Skeeter is probably most famous for her hit, "The End of the World." I will always remember Skeeter for the colorful outfits that she wore on the Opry and the smiles that she always had on her face. 

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

Mid-Week Opry Shows 4/1; 4/2 & 4/3

 Another full week of Grand Ole Opry shows. Here is the rundown: 

The Tuesday Night Opry has only one Opry member on the schedule, which is Rhonda Vincent, who will be opening the show. There are a pair of Opry NextStage artists listed: Tucker Wetmore and Hailey Whitters, while TAYA will be making her Opry debut. 

Tuesday April 1
7:00: Rhonda Vincent, Tucker Wetmore, TAYA, Collin Raye
Intermission
8:20: Taylor Hicks, Hailey Whitters, The Cleverlys

Taya Gaukrodger comes from a country town in the north of Australia. In 2010 she relocated to Sydney to pursue a career in music. Soon after arriving she got involved at Hillsong Church and began volunteering in youth, and young adult ministries. The world first heard Taya's voice in Hillsong United's 'Oceans' and 'Touch The Sky' and from that moment, her voice became an unmistakable clarion call to worship across the world. In 2023, Taya released her self-titled solo debut RECORD and has subsequently toured around the globe with husband Ben and 1 year old son, Bo. Her sophomore album “The Reminder” releases in April 2025 followed by her first-ever US headline tour. 

Now taking a look at the Wednesday Night Opry, Opry members T. Graham Brown, Riders In The Sky, Mandy Barett and Don Schlitz are scheduled. Very frequent Opry guest Charles Esten is back for another visit, while Bronwyn Keith-Hayes will be making her Opry debut. 

Wednesday April 2
7:00: T. Graham Brown, Bronwyn Keith-Hayes, Riders In The Sky, Charles Esten
Intermission
8:20: Mandy Barnett, Willie Jones, Carter Faith, Don Schlitz

Bronwyn Keith-Hayes is married to Jason Carter, formally of the Del McCoury Band. In fact, they were married on the Opry stage. Grammy-winning fiddle virtuoso Bronwyn Keith-Hynes is stepping into the spotlight. After several years of wowing audiences as the fiddler for Molly Tuttle & Golden Highway, the 2x IBMA Fiddle Player of the Year is striking out on her own - fronting a band for the first time and bringing her voice to the forefront. Known for her fiery fiddle playing and pure, rootsy singing, Bronwyn Keith-Hynes’ debut vocal album ‘I Built A World’ earned her a Grammy nomination this past February, and American Songwriter calls her “a world-class fiddler with a golden voice.”

Keith-Hynes’ music blends high octane bluegrass sensibilities with the soul of country and American Roots music. Backed by a powerhouse group of Nashville musicians hand-picked from her tight-knit community, Keith-Hynes represents the next generation of top tier bluegrass musicians, who will be appreciated for generations to come.

Finally, Opry Country Classics returns on Thursday night with Larry Gatlin as host and the Oak Ridge Boys as the Spotlight Artist. 

Opry Country Classic Thursday April 3
Host: Larry Gatlin
Spotlight Artist: Oak Ridge Boys
Also Appearing: Gatlin Brothers, Rhonda Vincent, TG Sheppard, Mickey Guyton

A pretty nice week of shows.