Grand Ole Opry 5/31 & 6/1

The weekend before the CMA Music Fest, and all is quite in Nashville. Well, not quite as the Grand Ole Opry has two shows scheduled this weekend, but first some sad news to share.

Eunita Kirby, the widow of Beecher Ray Kirby, better known as Brother Oswald, has passed away. Oswald, who passed away in 2002, and Eunita were married for 19 years. Brother Oswald, who officially joined the Grand Ole Opry in 1995, had been a part of the Opry since coming to Nashville with Roy Acuff.

Now, as far as the Grand Ole Opry this weekend, it looks like there will be two pretty nice shows this weekend as there is a nice group of Grand Ole Opry members in town. Opry members scheduled for both nights include John Conlee, Dailey & Vincent and Mark Wills. Joining that trio on Friday Night will be members Mike Snider, Jesse McReynolds and Connie Smith. Saturday night has Jeannie Seely, Bobby Osborne, Bill Anderson, Ricky Skaggs and The Whites scheduled.

Looking at the guest list, Friday night has Doug Seegers making a return appearance, along with Kathy Mattea, who in my opinion should have been an Opry member a long time ago, and who I feel would make a great Opry member, and a group who will be making their Opry debut, Fairground Saints. Also scheduled is another frequent guest, Steven Curtis Chapman.

Appearing on Saturday night will be King Calaway, making a return appearance to the Opry, along with comedian Chonda Pierce and John Paul White, formally one half of The Civil Wars.

Friday May 31
7:00: John Conlee (host); Mike Snider
7:30: Mark Wills (host); Jesse McReynolds; Fairground Saints
Intermission
8:15: Dailey & Vincent (host); Doug Seegers; Steven Curtis Chapman
8:45: Connie Smith (host); Kathy Mattea

Saturday June 1
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); John Conlee; Dailey & Vincent
7:30: Mark Wills (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Chonda Pierce
Intermission
8:15: Bill Anderson (host); John Paul White; Opry Square Dancers
8:45: Ricky Skaggs (host); The Whites; King Calaway

Mark Willis is going to be a pretty busy guy this weekend as he will also be hosting the Ernest Tubb Midnight Jamboree
_________________________________________________________________________

A distance of approximately 2,042 miles separates the California Coast from Nashville, Tennessee. Hop on the I-10 East from the Pacific Coast Highway, drive straight through, and you'll be a stone's throw from the Grand Ole Opry and strolling down Music Row no more than 32 hours later. Fairground Saints literally and creatively made such a trek. Like a montage out of a movie, the California-bred-trio of Elijah Edwards, Meg McAllister, and Mason Van Valin, met by way of various social networks and Craiglist postings. The trio locked into a once-in-a-lifetime groove, sold everything, packed up, and headed to Nashville. Within two weeks of relocating, they landed a deal with Sony Music Nashville. They had already earned acclaim from NPR, Huffington Post, and more as early recordings "Can't Control The Weather," and "Turn This Car Around" amassed millions of streams. They have toured with Brothers Osborne, Sara Evans, Scotty McCreery and Kip Moore.

Their first release on Sony/Nashville "Somewhere Down The Line" illustrates the band's identity. Introducing a new chapter and more music, the track hinges on a literal knee-slapping groove and pedal steel twang courtesy of Elijah and male-female harmonies shared by Meg and Mason before an upbeat and undeniable chant.

"Before we moved out to Nashville, we were doing some stuff in California, but things weren't going exactly the way we hoped, "said Meg. "We needed to go to Nashville. We didn't know exactly why. We didn't have an apartment lined up. We just sold everything we had, drove across the country, and made it work."

While Fairground Saints will be making their Opry debut on the Friday Night Opry, John Paul White, who is scheduled for Saturday's Grand Ole Opry, has been on the Opry stage before as a member of the outstanding duo, The Civil Wars.

With "The Hurting Kind," John Paul White has crafted a stunning album that draws on the lush, orchestrated music made in Nashville in the early 1960s. Yet these songs retain a modern feel, whether he's writing about overwhelming love, unraveling relationships, or the fading memory of a loved one.

John Paul grew up in tiny Loretto, Tennessee, and now lives in Florence, Alabama, not far from Muscle Shoals. He has cultivated his career in Nashville for two decades, first as a songwriter for a major publisher, then as half of The Civil Wars, a groundbreaking duo that won four Grammy Awards before disbanding in 2012. Because The Civil Wars was so hard to categorize, he has earned a fan base among indie rock listeners, folk audiences, Americana outlets, and AAA radio. So, what will happen if people hear The Hurting Kind and call it country? "Well, that doesn't scare me in the least," he says. "As a matter of fact, it kind of thrills me."
__________________________________________________________________________

And now, here is the posted Grand Ole Opry line-up from ten years ago, the weekend of May 29 & 30, 2009:

Friday May 29
7:00: Mike Snider (host); Jim Ed Brown; Jean Shepard; Sunny Sweeney
7:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); The Whites; Jimmy C Newman; Rebecca Lynn Howard
8:00: Marty Stuart (host); Connie Smith; The Quebe Sisters Band
8:30: Bill Anderson (host); Charlie Nagatani; Riders In The Sky

Saturday May 30
1st show
7:00: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jim Ed Brown; Jeannie Seely; Mike Snider
7:30: Marty Stuart (host); Jimmy C Newman; Riders In The Sky; Connie Smith
8:00: Bill Anderson (host); Jean Shepard; Joe Diffie; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Vince Gill (host); Amy Grant; John McEuen; Tim O'Brien; Steve Martin; Brad Paisley

2nd show
9:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Mel McDaniel; George Hamilton IV; The Whites
10:00: Marty Stuart (host); Jack Greene; Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Connie Smith
10:30: Bill Anderson (host); Jeannie Seely; Joe Diffie; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Vince Gill (host); Amy Grant; John McEuen; Tim O'Brien; Steve Martin

Saturday May 30, 1970 was an interesting night at the Grand Ole Opry as Jim Nabors performed that night.

Jim Nabors is known to most of us as Gomer Pyle, starring on the CBS television series. However, he was also an accomplished singer who appeared on numerous variety shows beginning in the 1960s.

Jim was born in Sylacauga, Alabama, but moved to California due to his asthma. He was discovered by Andy Griffith while working in a Santa Monica nightclub and he later joined the cast of The Andy Griffith Show. From there, his character was given his own spin-off show as Gomer Pyle. After Gomer Pyle left the air, he starred in his own variety show, however that show did not last long. After the show was cancelled, Jim continued to appear in concerts and on television, and was a frequent visitor to Nashville, known to attend the CMA Awards show.

Here is the running order from Saturday May 30, 1970:

1st show
6:30: Mrs. Grissoms
Willis Brothers (host): Bible on the Table (and a Flag upon the Wall)
Earl Scruggs Revue: Nashville Skyline Rag
Ernie Ashworth: That Look of Goodbye
Willis Brothers: Buying Popcorn

6:45: Rudy's
Jim Ed Brown (host): Lift Ring, Pull Over
Earl Scruggs Revue: My Home is Across the Blue Ridge Mountains
Stu Phillips: Wild Side of Life/You Win Again
Jim Ed Brown: Baby, I've Tried

7:00: Luzianne
Bill Monroe (host): Rawhide
Webb Pierce: The Man You Want Me to Be
Archie Campbell: Comedy
Leroy Van Dyke: She Called Me Baby
Bill Monroe: There's an Old, Old House
Webb Pierce: There Stands the Glass
Leroy Van Dyke: Walk on By/Auctioneer
Bill Monroe: Panhandle Country

7:30: Standard Candy
Porter Wagoner (host): Big Wind
Dolly Parton: It's Just the Way I Am
Billy Walker: Charlie's Shoes/Thinking 'Bout You Babe
Crook Brothers: Gray Eagle
Porter Wagoner and Dolly Parton: Run That By Me One More Time
Dolly Parton: How Great Thou Art
Billy Walker: When A Man Loves A Woman
Porter Wagoner: You Gotta Have a License

8:00: Martha White
Lester Flatt (host): Rollin' In My Sweet Baby's Arms
Dottie West: Here Comes My Baby
Billy Grammer: (?)
Cousin Jody: Mockingbird
Lester Flatt: I've Been Walking
Dottie West: Long Black Limousine
Billy Grammer: Gotta Travel On
Lester Flatt: Cumberland Gap

8:30: Stephens
Hank Locklin (host): Flying South
Marion Worth: Okie From Muskogee
Bobby Bare: Miller's Cave
Jim and Jesse: I've Got a Freight Train in My Mind
Hank Locklin: Danny Boy
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Devil's Dream
Marion Worth: Sleeping at the Foot of the Bed
Bobby Bare: Margie's at the Lincoln Park Inn

2nd show
9:30: Kellogg's
Porter Wagoner (host): Dooley
Willis Brothers: Private Lee
Dolly Parton: My Blue Ridge Mountain Boy
Ernie Ashworth: Where Do You Go
Porter Wagoner and Dolly Parton: Just Someone I Used to Know
Willis Brothers: Gypsy, Rose and Me
Dolly Parton: Daddy Come and Get Me
Porter Wagoner: Big Wind

10:00: Fender
Jim Ed Brown (host): Pop A Top
Webb Pierce: More & More/The Man You Want Me to Be
Jim Ed Brown: Baby, I've Tried

10:15: Union 76
Bill Monroe (host): I Haven't Seen Mary in Years
Earl Scruggs Revue: Nine Pound Hammer
Stu Phillips: Crystal Chandeliers
Bill Monroe: Blue Moon of Kentucky

10:30: Trailblazer
Lester Flatt (host) and Paul Warren: Orange Blossom Special
Archie Campbell: Make Friends
Leroy Van Dyke: An Old Love Affair Now Showing
Lester Flatt: A Great Big Woman & A Little Biddy Bottle of Wine

10:45: Beech-Nut
Hank Locklin (host): Send Me the Pillow You Dream On
Minnie Pearl
Jim Nabors: Your Cheatin' Heart/Rock -A-Bye

11:00: Coca Cola
Billy Walker (host): Cross the Brazos at Waco
Dottie West: Country Girl
Billy Grammer: Under the Double Eagle
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Cacklin Hen
Billy Walker: You Gave Me A Mountain
Dottie West: Here Comes My Baby
Sam McGee: Folsom Prison Blues
Billy Grammer: God Will Take Care of You/The Old Rugged Cross

11:30: Lava
Bobby Bare (host): Four Strong Winds
Marion Worth: Okie from Muskogee
Jim and Jesse: Golden Rocket
Cousin Jody: On Top of Old Smokey
Bobby Bare: The Streets of Baltimore
Marion Worth: How Great Thou Art
Jim and Jesse: I Wish You Knew
Bobby Bare: Detroit City

A Couple of interesting notes from that night: Jim Nabors was introduced by his friend Minnie Pearl. He appeared only on the late show. Also, two former Grand Ole Opry members, Webb Pierce and Leroy Van Dyke performed on both shows that night. As to cancellations, Bill Carlisle, Stringbean, Ray Pillow and Loretta Lynn were all scheduled, but cancelled. Finally, a few of the Opry's heavy hitters were missing that night: Roy Acuff, Hank Snow, Ernest Tubb and Marty Robbins. Still, it was a very good night at the Opry.

There you have it for this week as we close out the month of May and head into June and the CMA Music Fest. Looking at the Opry's schedule for next week, it looks like a pretty full week of shows, with several of the Opry's bigger names, including Carrie Underwood and Travis Tritt, scheduled to appear.

As always, thanks for reading and I hope everyone enjoys the Opry this weekend.

Tuesday Night Opry 5/28 & Opry Country Classics 5/30

Here is the line-up that was given to me for the Tuesday Night Opry, May 28

7:00: Bill Anderson; Town Mountain
7:30: Striking Matches; Dustin Lynch
Intermission
8:15: Kelsey Waldon; John Prine
8:45: Sturgill Simpson

Here is the line-up for Opry Country Classics, Thursday May 30, which will be the final classics show for the spring run:

Host: Larry Gatlin
Spotlight Artist: Ricky Skaggs
Also Appearing: The Gatlin Brothers, Maggie Rose, The Swon Brothers, Exile

Grand Ole Opry 5/24 & 5/25

Memorial Day weekend is the first big summer holiday and a lot of folks are out on the road. That also includes many of the country entertainers, but even with a lot of personal bookings, the Opry has come up with a pretty good line-up for both Friday and Saturday night.

Grand Ole Opry members scheduled for both nights include Mike Snider, John Conlee and Jeannie Seely. Joining that trio on Friday night will be Connie Smith and Bobby Osborne, while on Saturday The Whites, Jesse McReynolds and Bill Anderson are listed. That makes five members of Friday and six on Saturday.

Guesting on the Friday Night Opry will be Adam Doleac, Kalie Shorr, Sister Hazel, comedian Dick Hardwick, Darryl Worley, Tony Jackson (who impressed a lot of folks when he was on for his Opry debut) and Charles Esten. On Saturday night, the list includes David Ball, Elizabeth Cook, Gary Morris, comedian John Crist and Lauren Alaina.

For those wondering, this will be the Grand Ole Opry debut for John Crist, who is a noted comedian. He is also Lauren Alaina's current boyfriend.

Friday May 24
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Adam Doleac
7:30: Mike Snider (host); Kalie Shorr; Sister Hazel
Intermission
8:15: John Conlee (host); Dick Hardwick; Darryl Worley
8:45: Connie Smith (host); Tony Jackson; Charles Esten

Saturday May 25
7:00: John Conlee (host); The Whites; David Ball
7:30: Mike Snider (host); Elizabeth Cook; Gary Morris
Intermission
8:15: Jeannie Seely (host); Jesse McReynolds; John Crist; Opry Square Dancers
8:45: Bill Anderson (host); Lauren Alaina

The Malpass Brothers will be hosting the Ernest Tubb Midnight Jamboree this Saturday night. They should have been scheduled for the Opry this weekend as they are a fantastic duo.
__________________________________________________________________________

And now, here is the posted Grand Ole Opry line-up from ten years ago, the 4th weekend in May 2009:

Friday May 22
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Mike Snider; Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Caitlin & Will
7:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Connie Smith; Rhonda Vincent
8:00: Bill Anderson (host); Jean Shepard; Tracy Byrd
8:30: Ricky Skaggs (host); Stonewall Jackson; Jack Greene; The Whites

Saturday May 23
7:00: Jimmy Dickens (host); Connie Smith; Dale Watson
7:30: Mike Snider (host); Jimmy C Newman; Jean Shepard; Emily West
8:00: Ricky Skaggs (host); Riders In The Sky; The Whites; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Bill Anderson (host); Jan Howard; Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Hal Ketchum

Now from 25 years ago, Saturday May 28, 1994:

1st show
6:30: Grandpa Jones (host); Skeeter Davis
6:45: Bill Monroe (host); Wilma Lee Cooper
7:00: Mike Snider (host); Hank Locklin; Jeanne Pruett; Charlie Walker; Connie Smith
7:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); The Four Guys; Stonewall Jackson; Charlie Daniels Band
8:00: Bill Anderson (host); Jean Shepard; Roy Drusky; The Whites; Opry Square Dance Band; The Melvin Sloan Dancers
8:30: Hank Snow (host); Jack Greene; Charlie Louvin and Bob Bates; Billy Walker; The Carol Lee Singers

2nd show
9:30: Jimmy Dickens (host): JD Sumner and The Stamps; Charlie Daniels Band
10:00: Bill Monroe (host); Jean Shepard
10:15: Grandpa Jones (host); Roy Drusky
10:30: Bill Anderson (host); Jeanne Pruett
10:45: Jack Greene (host); The Four Guys; Opry Square Dance Band; The Melvin Sloan Dancers
11:00: Hank Snow (host); The Whites; Charlie Louvin; Billy Walker; The Carol Lee Singers
11:30: Mike Snider (host): Hank Locklin; Connie Smith

And from 50 years ago, Saturday May 24, 1969:

1st show
6:30/6:45: Wilma Lee and Stoney Cooper; Stringbean; The Four Guys; Archie Campbell; Lorene Mann; Margie Bowes
7:00: Roy Acuff; Jim Ed Brown
7:30: Porter Wagoner; Mel Tillis; Dolly Parton; Crook Brothers
8:00: Ernest Tubb; Glaser Brothers; Willis Brothers; Lonzo and Oscar
8:30: Hank Snow; Bill Carlisle; Del Wood; Fruit Jar Drinkers

2nd show
9:30: Glaser Brothers; Willis Brothers; Wilma Lee and Stoney Cooper; Stringbean; The Four Guys
10:00: Jim Ed Brown; Archie Campbell and Lorene Mann; Virgil Gifford
10:15: Roy Acuff; Bill Carlisle
10:30: Porter Wagoner; Dolly Parton; Del Wood
10:45: Ernest Tubb; Mel Tillis; Crook Brothers
11:00: Hank Snow; Margie Bowes; Fruit Jar Drinkers; Sam McGee
11:30: Marty Robbins; Lonzo and Oscar; Jeanne Pruett; Don Winters

Finally, let's take a look at an Opry line-up from a few years ago, Saturday May 24, 1986. Nothing particularly special took place that night, but I thought it would be interesting to look back at an Opry show from the middle 1980s.

1st show
6:30: Bonanza
The Four Guys (host): Fox on the Run
Jeannie Seely: Tell Me Again
The Four Guys: Some Memories Just Won't Die

6:45: Rudy's
Jack Greene (host): Lasting First Impression
Wilma Lee Cooper: Honey in the Rock
Jack Greene: There Goes My Everything

7:00: Shoney's
Porter Wagoner (host): Y'All Come
Ernie Ashworth: Memphis Memory
Vic Willis Trio: Shenandoah
Loretta Lynn: They Don't Make'em Like My Daddy Anymore/America
Porter Wagoner and Becky Hinson: Good Love Died Tonight/What A Memory We'd Make

7:30: Standard Candy
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Jeanne Pruett: Satin Sheets
Osborne Brothers: Rocky Top
Connie Smith: Louisiana Man/Once a Day
Crook Brothers and The Melvin Sloan Dancers: Sally Goodin
Roy Acuff: I'll Fly Away

8:00: Martha White
Stonewall Jackson (host): Muddy Water
Lorrie Morgan: Crazy
Ray Pillow; Please Don't Leave Me Anymore
Shelly West: Jose Cuervo/Here Comes My Baby
Stonewall Jackson: Don't Be Angry

8:30: Music Valley
Hank Snow (host): Send Me the Pillow You Dream On
Jean Shepard: Blanket on the Ground
Roy Drusky: I Really Don't Want to Know
Roger Whitaker: (?)/The Last Farewell
Hank Snow: Among My Souvenirs

2nd show
9:30: Dollar General
The Four Guys (host): Tennessee
Jeannie Seely: Why Doesn't He Just Leave Me Alone
Bill Carlisle: No Help Wanted
Lorrie Morgan: One Love at a Time
Charlie Louvin: Hungry Eyes
The Four Guys: Mama Rocked Us to Sleep with Country Music

10:00: Little Debbie
Roy Drusky (host): Tennessee Border
Wilma Lee Cooper: Philadelphia Lawyer
Roy Drusky: Have I Stayed Away Too Long

10:15: Sunbeam
Roy Acuff (host): Meeting in the Air
Loretta Lynn: Wouldn't That Be Great/You're Looking at Country/Coal Miner's Daughter/You Ain't Woman Enough to Take My Man

10:30: Pet Milk
Porter Wagoner (host): On A Highway Headed South
Shelly West: Jose Cuervo
Porter Wagoner: I Thought I Heard You Calling My Name

10:45: Heil-Quaker
Osborne Brothers (host): Georgia Mules and Country Boys
Connie Smith: I've Got My Baby on My Mind
Crook Brothers and The Melvin Sloan Dancers: Bill Cheatham
Osborne Brothers: Hide Me, Blessed Rock of Ages
Blaine Sprouse: Katy Hill

11:00: Coca Cola
Hank Snow (host): Right or Wrong
Justin Tubb: Walkin' the Floor Over You/Sing Blue Eyed Elaine Again
Jean Shepard: I'm All Right/Second Fiddle
Hank Snow: I Almost Lost My Mind

11:30: Quincy's
Ray Pillow (host): Too Many Memories
Cathedral Quartet: Can He; Could He; Would He/Wonderful Grace of Jesus/I'll Have a New Body; I'll Have A New Live/Everybody Will Be Happy Over There
Johnny Russell: No Relief in Sight/Act Naturally
Ray Pillow: Congratulations; You're Absolutely Right

On the first show, Porter did a duet with Becky Hinson. Becky was a member of Porter's group, The Right Combination. At last word, she plays at the Nashville Palace and it is advertised as Becky Hinson and The Nashville Palace Band.

There you have it for this week and for the month of May. As always, I hope everyone enjoys the Opry this weekend!!

Tuesday Night Opry 5/21 & Opry Country Classics 5/23

The Grand Ole Opry is scheduled to salute the U.S. Military with an annual red carpet parade and special Salute the Troops Opry performance on Tuesday May 21. Among the artists scheduled to perform are Trace Adkins. Brantley Gilbert, Lee Greenwood, Craig Morgan, The Wild Feathers and Mark Wills.

95-year-old World War II sailor Ernie Andrus is set to lead the red carpet parade of fellow military men and women into the Opry House before the evening's performance. In 2016, Andrus became the oldest person to run across America, journeying from San Diego, California to Saint Simons Island, Georgia. Last month, he began a second run across the country, beginning in Georgia with a planned finish in California after his 100th birthday. Andrus is running to raise money an awareness for the LST 325 Ship Memorial in Evansville, Indiana. While 1,051 LST's (landing ship tanks) were built during World War II, only the 325 is fully restored, operational, and open for tours.

The Opry and the United Service Organizations (USO) will invite men and women of the U.S. Military as well as spouses, children and parents of service members to follow Andrus on the red carpet into the Opry House for the evening's show, dedicated to saluting the troops and their families for their service to the nation.

The public is invited to cheer on the honored red carpet parade guests in advance of the evening's show.

Tuesday May 21:
Scheduled to Appear: Trace Adkins, Craig Morgan, Mark Wills, Lee Greenwood, Brantley Gilbert, The Wild Feathers and Travis Denning.


Opry Country Classics, Thursday May 23
Host: Larry Gatlin
Spotlight Artist: Crystal Gayle
Also Appearing: The Gatlin Brothers, Craig Campbell, Erin Enderlin, Jesse McReynolds

No doubt that Crystal Gayle should be the spotlight artist, and she has been before. But how about Jesse? Maybe it is time that he should be featured on night.

Enjoy!!

Grand Ole Opry 5/17 & 5/18

So, did I miss anything while I was gone other than Keith Urban's annual Opry appearance?

Anyways, back from the mountains and it will be a big weekend at the Grand Ole Opry as there are two shows scheduled for both the Friday Night Opry and Saturday's Grand Ole Opry.

The Friday Night Opry will feature the Opry's newest member, Kelsea Ballerini, who is scheduled for both shows. Joining Kelsea will be Opry members Mike Snider, Ricky Skaggs, Dailey & Vincent, John Conlee, Riders In The Sky, Jesse McReynolds and Diamond Rio.

John Conlee, Riders In The Sky, and Ricky are also scheduled for Saturday's Grand Ole Opry, will they will be joined by members Old Crow Medicine Show, Bill Anderson, The Whites, Jeannie Seely, and for the late show only, Bobby Osborne.

Guesting on the Friday Night Opry will be Morgan Evans (Kelsea's beau),  and making his Opry debut, Chris Shiflett. As far as Saturday night is concerned, the guest list for both shows includes Devin Dawson, Frankie Ballard, Brett Young, and on the first show, Charlie Nagatani, who will continue his streak of annual Opry appearances.

Friday May 17
1st show
7:00: John Conlee (host); Mike Snider; Morgan Evans
7:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Jesse McReynolds; Chris Shiflett
8:00: Dailey & Vincent (host); Diamond Rio
8:30: Ricky Skaggs (host); Kelsea Ballerini

2nd show
9:30: John Conlee (host); Mike Snider; Morgan Evans
10:00: Dailey & Vincent (host); Kelsea Ballerini
10:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Jesse McReynolds; Chris Shiflett
11:00: Ricky Skaggs (host); Diamond Rio

Saturday May 18
1st show
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); John Conlee; Devin Dawson
7:30: Bill Anderson (host); Charlie Nagatani; Frankie Ballard
8:00: Ricky Skaggs (host); The Whites; Brett Young; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Old Crow Medicine Show (host); Riders In The Sky

2nd show
9:30: Jeannie Seely (host); John Conlee; Devin Dawson
10:00: Bill Anderson (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Frankie Ballard
10:30: Ricky Skaggs (host); The Whites; Brett Young; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Old Crow Medicine Show (host); Riders In The Sky

Raised alongside the California coastline in Santa Barbara, Chris Shiflett kicked off his career in seminal pop-punk groups like No Use For a Name and the Gimme Gimmes. As the 90s gave way to the 2000s, he joined the Foo Fighters' line-up. He's since become one of the band's longest-running members, flying the flag of modern rock & roll for two decades. Along the way, he's also become the host of a bi-weekly Americana podcast, "Walking the Floor," as well as the driving force behind solo projects like Chris Shiflett and the Dead Peasants. "Hard Lessons" follows "West Coast Town" as the second solo record to bear his name alone, and it's perhaps the most Shi-flett-sounding album in his entire catalog, with songs that nod to the classic Bakersfield sound one minute and Keith Richards' greasy guitar style the next.
_________________________________________________________________________

And now, here is the posted Grand Ole Opry line-up from ten years ago, the 3rd weekend in May 2009:

Friday May 15
7:00: Hal Ketchum (host); Connie Smith; Jim Ed Brown
7:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Ashton Shepherd
8:00: Riders In The Sky (host); Jack Greene; Keith Anderson
8:30: Ricky Skaggs (host); Gary Mule Deer; Gene Watson

Saturday May 16
7:00: Jimmy Dickens (host); The Whites; David Nail
7:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Jim Ed Brown; Jewel
8:00: Marty Stuart (host); Jan Howard; Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Jean Shepard; Jack Greene; Charlie Daniels Band

Now from 25 years ago, Saturday May 21, 1994

1st show
6:30: GHS Strings
Stonewall Jackson (host): Me and You and A Dog Named Boo
Jean Shepard: I'm Just an Old Bridge that You Keep Burning
Stonewall Jackson: Don't Be Angry

6:45: Country Music Hall of Fame
Grandpa Jones (host): Old Rattler
Skeeter Davis: The End of the World/Lovesick Blues
Grandpa Jones: Little Old Log Cabin by the Stream

7:00: Shoney's
Porter Wagoner (host): Ol' Slewfoot
Hank Locklin: Please Help Me I'm Falling
Charlie Louvin and Bob Bates: Make Him a Soldier
Bill Carlisle: Hand Me Down My Walking Cane
Jan Howard: Somebody's Always Saying Goodbye
Porter Wagoner and Colene Walters: Please Don't Stop Loving Me
Porter Wagoner: Wake Up Jacob

7:30: Standard Candy
Jack Greene (host): Looking Back is Easier
Rhonda Vincent: I'm Not Over You
The Whites: Hangin' Around
Charley Pride: Shutters & Boards/Is Anybody Going to San Antone/Kiss an Angel Good Morning
Jack Greene: There Goes My Everything/Statue of a Fool

8:00: Martha White
Bill Anderson (host): But You Know I Love You
Roy Drusky: Somewhere My Love
Jimmy C Newman: Louisiana Cajun Band
Jeanne Pruett: Satin Sheets
Opry Square Dance Band and The Melvin Sloan Dancers: Sally Goodin
Bill Anderson: The Unicorn

8:30: Kraft
Hank Snow (host): Ramblin' Rose
Connie Smith: Once A Day
The Four Guys: Turn Your Radio On
Ray Pillow: One Memory to Another
Mike Snider: Lonesome Road Blues/Snuff Dipper
Hank Snow: Blueberry Hill

2nd show
9:30: Dollar General
Porter Wagoner (host) and Colene Walters: The Last Thing on My Mind
Jan Howard: The One You Slip Around With
Rhonda Vincent: Mama Knows the Highway
Randy Howard: Sally Goodin
Charley Pride: Walk on By/Kaw-liga
Porter Wagoner: The Cowboy's Hat

10:00: Doctor's Cream
Grandpa Jones (host): Oh, Suzannah
Brother Oswald: The End of the World
Grandpa Jones: Dark as the Dungeon

10:15: Tennessee Pride/Sunbeam
Bill Anderson (host): Before I Met You
Stonewall Jackson: 'Ol Chunk of Coal
Bill Anderson: Still

10:30: Gruhn Guitars
Jean Shepard (host): If Teardrops Were Pennies
The Whites: No One Has to Tell Me What Love Is
Jean Shepard and The Whites: Love's Gonna Live Here

10:45: Opry Book
Mike Snider (host): Foggy Mountain Breakdown
Charlie Louvin and Bob Bates: Nobody's Darling But Mine
Opry Square Dance Band and The Melvin Sloan Dancers: Tennessee Waggoner
Randy Howard: Tom & Jerry

11:00: Coca Cola
Hank Snow (host): The Call of the Wild
The Four Guys: Tennessee
Hank Locklin: Send Me the Pillow You Dream On
Jimmy C Newman: Big Mamou
Charlie Walker: A Way to Free Myself
Hank Snow: The Rainbow's End

11:30:
General Jackson
Jack Greene (host): Walking the Floor Over You
Connie Smith: I Never Once Stopped Loving You/Sing, Sing, Sing
Billy Walker: Word Games/Singing the Blues
Jeannie Seely: Houston
Jack Greene: Don't You Ever Get Tired of Hurting Me
__________________________________________________________________________

Finally, from 50 years ago, Saturday May 17, 1969 which was the night that Tammy Wynette became, for a short amount of time, a member of the Grand Ole Opry:

1st show
6:30/6:45
Hank Locklin
Willis Brothers
Bill Carlisle
The Four Guys
Bobby Lord

7:00: Luzianne
Bill Anderson (host): I Love You Drops
Charlie Walker: Honky Tonk Season
Stringbean: Ol' Man, Can You Play the Banjo
Del Wood: Ballin' the Jack
Bill Anderson: My Life
Charlie Walker: Jambalaya
Jimmy Gately: Cryin' Don't Pay
Stringbean: Nine Pound Hammer
Bill Anderson: City Lights/I've Enjoyed as Much of This As I Can Stand/I Don't Love You Anymore/Once A Day/Cold Hard Facts of Life/Cincinnati, Ohio/Think I'll Go Somewhere and Cry Myself to Sleep

7:30: Standard Candy
Roy Acuff (host): Once More
Stonewall Jackson: Don't Be Angry
Jean Shepard: I'm Tied Around Your Finger
Archie Campbell: Scarlet Ribbons
Crook Brothers: Eighth of January
Justin Tubb: The Great River Road Mystery
Roy Acuff: Filipino Baby

8:00: Martha White
George Jones (host): White Lightening
Tammy Wynette: D-I-V-O-R-C-E
George Jones and Tammy Wynette: Milwaukee, Here I Come
Grandpa Jones: Mountain Laurel
Tammy Wynette: Singing My Song
Jones Boys: Fire on the Mountain

8:30: Stephens
Bill Monroe (host): Train 45
Glaser Brothers: California Girl
Margie Bowes: Understand Your Gal/Big City
Wilma Lee and Stoney Cooper: Don't Let Your Sweet Love Die
Bill Monroe: I Haven't Seen Mary in Years
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Bill Cheatham
Johnny Cash: Folsom Prison Blues/Orange Blossom Special
Johnny Cash and June Carter: Jackson

2nd show
9:30: Kellogg's
Hank Locklin (host): Geisha Girl
Willis Brothers: Bob
Jean Shepard: Many Happy Hangovers to You
Bill Carlisle: No Help Wanted
Hank Locklin: Country Hall of Fame
Willis Brothers: Rambling Boy
The Four Guys: Daddy Sang Base
Justin Tubb: Be Glad

10:00: Fender
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Charlie Walker: Little Old Wine Drinker Me
Del Wood: Are You From Dixie
Roy Acuff: The Great Speckled Bird

10:15: Pure
Bill Anderson (host): Wild Weekend
Stringbean: Gonna Make Myself A Name
Jimmy Gately: Heavenly Sunshine
Bill Anderson: My Life

10:30; Buckley's
Stonewall Jackson (host): A Wound Time Can't Erase
Bobby Lord: Yesterday's Letters
Johnny Cash: I Still Miss Someone/Folsom Prison Blues
Johnny Cash and June Carter: Jackson
Stonewall Jackson: Waterloo

10:45: True
Bill Monroe (host): Blue Moon of Kentucky
Margie Bowes: That Completely Destroys My Plans
Crook Brothers: Sally Ann
Bill Monroe: I'm On My Way Back to the Old Home

11:00: Coca Cola
George Jones (host): The Race is On
Tammy Wynette: Stand By Your Man
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Cotton Eyed Joe
George Jones: I'll Be Over When the Grass Grows Over Me
Tammy Wynette: Your Good Girl;s Gonna Go Bad
Sam McGee: Uncle Bud
George Jones: Walk Thru This World With Me

11:30: Lava
Wilma Lee and Stoney Cooper (host): My Georgia Moon
Grandpa Jones: Raining on the Mountain, Now My Love
The Four Guys: Swing Down Chariot
Wilma Lee Cooper; I Don't Care if Tomorrow Never Comes
Grandpa Jones: T for Texas
The Four Guys: Love of the Common People
Earl White: I'll Love You More Today (Then He Can From Now On)

As I wrote, Tammy Wynette did not stay as an Opry member for very long. She and George were married in February 1969 and the divorce was final in 1975. But by that point, Tammy was long gone from the Opry.

Tammy's Grand Ole Opry induction came at about the same time that George Jones rejoined the Opry. While Tammy left, George more or less stayed.

That is it for this week. As always, I hope everyone enjoys the Opry this weekend and thanks for checking out this week's blog.

Tuesday Night Opry 5/14 & Opry Country Classics 5/16

This will be a big week for the Grand Ole Opry as not only are there two shows next Friday and Saturday night, but the Tuesday Night Opry will also have a pair of shows, thanks to an appearance by Grand Ole Opry member Keith Urban.

Tuesday Night Opry May 14
1st show
7:00: Riders In The Sky; Hunter Hayes
7:30: Rob Ickes and Trey Hensley; Chonda Pierce
8:00: Sawyer Brown; Chris Janson
8:30: Keith Urban

2nd show
9:30: Riders In The Sky; Hunter Hayes
10:00: Rob Ickes and Trey Hensley; Chonda Pierce
10:30: Sawyer Brown; Chris Janson
11:00: Keith Urban

Opry Country Classics Thursday May 16
Host: Larry Gatlin
Spotlight Artist: Craig Morgan
Also Appearing: Abby Anderson; Carlene Carter; Jimmy Fortune

Actually, either Carlene Carter or Jimmy Fortune could have been the spotlight artist, but a good choice with Craig Morgan.

Enjoy the week. I am posting this a couple of days early as we are headed off to Gatlinburg and the mountains for a few days or rest and relaxation.

Grand Ole Opry 5/10 & 5/11

Starting off with news from WSM:

Ryman Hospitality Classic Country WSM-AM/Nashville afternoon host Devon O'Day and her Nashville Today show will move to middays for a shortened 10am-12pm slot, effective July 15. Mike Terry and the WSM at Work show will move to 12-3pm. Replacing O'Day from 3-6pm will be Sports-Talk personality George Plaster's Sports Night, which has been airing on the station each Sunday evening. "We are excited to feature country music artists who are also sports enthusiasts," says WSM-AM GM Chris Kulick. "Many country music fans are also sports fans, and Sports Night will allow WSM-AM to reach an even larger country music lifestyle audience."

It will be interesting to see how all this plays out. Many of us remember a few years ago when Gaylord tired to change the format of WSM to sports talk, and thanks to an outcry by various country entertainers, including George Jones and Vince Gill, and from listeners, WSM management backed off on those plans. For those who do not follow the radio ratings, WSM's are among the lowest of any country station in the Nashville market. There is certainly a market for classic country and Americana music in Nashville, but it just might not be on the AM dial. While I don't like the move, I understand it from a business standpoint. And let's not forget, but for much of its history, WSM was not a country station, but played a variety of music. In fact, most of the country music came from either the Opry or Ralph Emery's overnight show. As I mentioned, let's see how all this plays out before pushing the panic button on WSM.
__________________________________________________________________________

Moving on, Sunday is Mother's Day and the Grand Ole Opry has two shows this weekend that should please country music moms everywhere. Both shows feature a nice group of Grand Ole Opry members and some nice guest artists.

Grand Ole Opry members appearing both nights include John Conlee, Riders In The Sky, Dailey & Vincent, Bill Anderson and Ricky Skaggs. Friday night, they will be joined by the legendary Jesse McReynolds, Connie Smith and The Whites. On Saturday night, it will be Mike Snider, Bobby Osborne and Jeannie Seely joining in. That all adds up to eight Opry members each night.

Guesting on Friday night will be Tegan Marie, The Isaacs, Collin Raye and someone who I enjoy seeing on the Opry this weekend, Jesse Keith Whitley. Saturday night's guests are Point of Grace, Hall of Fame member Jimmy Fortune, Wendy Moten, who is fresh off her Opry debut, and making his Grand Ole Opry debut, Adam Hambrick.

Friday May 10
7:00: John Conlee (host); Jesse McReynolds; Tegan Marie
7:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Jesse Keith Whitley; The Isaacs
Intermission
8:15: Dailey & Vincent (host); Connie Smith; Collin Raye
8:45: Bill Anderson (host); The Whites; Ricky Skaggs

Saturday May 11
7:00: John Conlee (host); Mike Snider; Point of Grace
7:30: Dailey & Vincent (host); Riders In The Sky; Jimmy Fortune
Intermission
8:15: Bill Anderson (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Wendy Moten; Opry Square Dancers
8:45: Jeannie Seely (host); Adam Hambrick; Ricky Skaggs

Capital Records Nashville's Adam Hambrick grew up between Mississippi and Arkansas, influenced by artists such as Alan Jackson, Garth Brooks, John Mayer and The Foo Fighters. Growing up, Adam's musical roots were grounded in the church singing hymns with his family, where his dad was a Baptist pastor and his mom played piano. After graduating from the University of Central Arkansas, the singer-songwriter made an appearance on Good Morning Arkansas where fellow Arkansas-native and country star Justin Moore happened to be watching and was impressed by Adam's unique voice and distinctive songs. This was the first of many circumstances that changed the course of his life. Soon after, Justin's producer Jeremy Stover reached out opening the door for Adam to move to Nashville and pursue music full-time. Since then, Adam has written a multitude of songs and had numerous cuts for other artists including Miranda Lambert and Eli Young Band, as well as No. 1 hits for Dan + Shay and Justin Moore. Since moving to Nashville, he has continued to hone his songwriting and vocal skills while developing his live show. Adam is currently working on his debut album with producers Andrew DeRoberts and Paul DiGiovanni. His first single, "Rockin' All Night Long," is resonating with country music fans everywhere as it recalls the nostalgic late-night memories made throughout life.
_______________________________________________________________________

And now, here is the posted Grand Ole Opry line-up from ten years ago, May 8 & 9, 2009. Saturday night they added an extra segment that featured Reba McEntire, one of her rare Opry appearances.

Friday May 8
7:00: Riders In The Sky (host); Jimmy C Newman; Kate & Kacey
7:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press
8:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Daryle Singletary; Mountain Heart
8:30: Mike Snider (host); Jean Shepard; Aaron Tippin

Saturday May 9
7:00: Jim Ed Brown (host) w/Helen Cornelius; Jimmy C Newman; James Otto
7:30: Jean Shepard (host); Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Ernie Haase & Signature Sound
8:00: Mike Snider (host); Stonewall Jackson; Darryl Worley; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Hal Ketchum (host); Jan Howard; Jack Greene
9:00: Reba McEntire

Now from 25 years ago, Saturday May 14, 1994:
1st show
6:30: Grandpa Jones (host); Bill Carlisle
6:45: Bill Monroe (host); Ricky Skaggs
7:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Jimmy Dickens; Charlie Walker; Jim and Jesse; Stonewall Jackson
7:30: Jean Shepard (host); Jeanne Pruett; Jeannie Seely; Connie Smith; Jan Howard; Carol Lee Cooper; Wilma Lee Cooper
8:00: Bill Anderson (host); The Whites; Billy Walker; Osborne Brothers; Opry Square Dance Band; The Melvin Sloan Dancers
8:30: Jimmy C Newman (host); The Four Guys; Roy Drusky; Jack Greene

2nd show
9:30: Porter Wagoner (host); Brother Oswald and Charlie Collins; Roy Drusky; Jim and Jesse; Stonewall Jackson; Colene Walters
10:00: Jimmy Dickens (host); Bill Anderson
10:15: Grandpa Jones (host); Jack Greene; Opry Square Dance Band; The Melvin Sloan Dancers
10:30: Jean Shepard (host); Jeanne Pruett; Jeannie Seely; Connie Smith; Jan Howard; Carol Lee Cooper; Wilma Lee Cooper
11:00: Jimmy C Newman (host); Osborne Brothers; Billy Walker; The Four Guys
11:30: Bill Monroe (host); Ricky Skaggs; Charlie Walker; Johnny Russell
_____________________________________________________________________

Finally, going back to Saturday May 10, 1969, which was the night that Stonewall Jackson rejoined the Grand Ole Opry.

Stonewall Jackson was born on November 6, 1932 in Tabor City, North Carolina. He was named after Confederate General Thomas "Stonewall" Jackson. Stonewall's dad died when he was a young child, after which his mother moved the family to South Georgia. He enlisted in the Navy in 1950 and was discharged in 1954. In 1956 he moved to Nashville.

After hearing a demo tape of Stonewall, Wesley Rose of Acuff-Rose Music arranged for Stonewall to audition for the Grand Ole Opry. The audition was successful and Stonewall joined the Opry on November 3, 1956, becoming the first artist to join the Opry's cast before obtaining a recording contract. He toured with Ernest Tubb and in 1958 he signed with Columbia Records.

His first big hit was in late 1958 when "Life to Go," written by George Jones, reached No. 2 on the country charts in early 1959. That was followed by "Waterloo" which reached No. 1 and stayed there for five weeks. It also made the Billboard Hot 100 chart, peaking at No. 4. The song sold over one million copies and was certified as a gold record. His next No. 1 hits came in 1964 with "Don't Be Angry" and "B.J. the D.J." Stonewall's other hits included "Why I'm Walkin,'" "A Wound Time Can't Erase," and "I Washed My Hands in Muddy Water." His final Top 10 hit was in 1971 with "Me and You and a Dog Named Boo." From 1958 up to 1971, Stonewall had 35 Top 40 country hits.

Stonewall was fired from the Grand Ole Opry in December 1964 for failing to meet the Opry's performance requirements. While he continued to make occasional guest appearances, he did not rejoin the Opry until May 1969. Sadly in 2006, Stonewall sued the Grand Ole Opry, claiming age discrimination. Until the lawsuit was settled in October 2008, Stonewall did not appear on the Opry, although he had invitations to appear. After the settlement, he returned.

And now, here is the running order from Saturday May 10, 1969, the night Stonewall Jackson returned to the Grand Ole Opry's cast:

1st show
6:30/6:45
Willis Brothers; Billy Grammer; The Four Guys; Archie Campbell; Del Wood; Bill Monroe; Cousin Jody

7:00: Luzianne
Roy Acuff (host): Night Train to Memphis
Stonewall Jackson: Don't Be Angry
Jean Shepard: I'm Tied Around Your Finger
Leroy Van Dyke: If A Woman Answers (Hang Up the Phone)
Roy Acuff: The Great Speckled Bird
Stonewall Jackson: Angry Words
Jean Shepard: I Thought of You/It Wasn't God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels/A Dear John Letter
Leroy Van Dyke: Auctioneer

7:30: Standard Candy
Charlie Louvin (host): Let's Put Our World Back Together
Wilma Burgess: Misty Blue
Cal Smith: Drinking Champagne
Crook Brothers: Black Mountain Rag
Charlie Louvin: I Want a Happy Life
Wilma Burgess: I Started Loving You Again
Cal Smith: Atlanta, Georgia
Charlie Louvin: How Great Thou Art

8:00: Martha White
Ernest Tubb (host): Saturday Sinner; Sunday Saint
Hank Locklin: Country Hall of Fame
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Walking in My Sleep
Charlie Walker: Honky Tonk Season
Ernest Tubb: Waltz Across Texas
Hank Locklin: Before the Next Teardrop Falls
Charlie Walker: Pick Me Up on Your Way Down
Billy Parker: I'll Drink to That

8:30: Stephens
Hank Snow (host): Rumba Boogie
Susan Raye: Silver Threads and Golden Needles
Chubby Wise: Orange Blossom Special
Hank Snow: Mother
Roger Miller: King of the Road
Margie Bowes: Take Me as I Am (Or Let Me Go)
Hank Snow: Tammy

2nd show
9:30: Kellogg's
Hank Locklin (host): Send Me the Pillow You Dream On
Willis Brothers: Alcohol & #2 Diesel Don't Mix
The Four Guys: Love of the Common People
Hank Locklin: Country Hall of Fame
Willis Brothers: Bob
Billy Grammer: Gotta Travel On

10:00: Fender
Archie Campbell (host): Scarlet Ribbons
Cal Smith: I Love You a Thousand Ways
Leroy Van Dyke: Walk on By/Auctioneer
Archie Campbell: Trouble in Amen Corner

10:15: Pure
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Stonewall Jackson: Angry Words
Del Wood: Down at Papa Joe's
Roy Acuff: You Win Again

10:30: Buckley's
Bill Monroe (host): When My Blue Moon Turns to Gold Again
Jean Shepard: I'm Tied Around Your Finger
Charlie Louvin: Let's Put Our World Back Together

10:45: True
Ernest Tubb (host): You Don't Have to Be A Baby to Cry
Susan Raye: Oh, Lonesome Me
Crook Brothers: Cotton Eyed Joe
Ernest Tubb: Warm Red Wine

11:00: Coca Cola
Hank Snow (host): I've Been Everywhere
Charlie Walker: Honky Tonk Season
Wilma Burgess: Only Mama That'll Walk the Line
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Alabama Gal
Hank Snow: Gonna Find Me a Bluebird
Charlie Walker: Jambalaya
Wilma Burgess: Don't Touch Me
Sam McGee: Railroad Blues
Hank Snow: In the Misty Moonlight

11:30: Lava
Marty Robbins (host): Ribbon of Darkness
Margie Bowes: When It's Over
Wes Buchanan: Working My Way Through a Heartache
Cousin Jody: On Top of Old Smokey
Margie Bowes: Once A Day
Wes Buchanan: Windows Have Pains
Marty Robbins: Devil Woman/I Walk Alone/Don't Worry/ El Paso

Stonewall's last Grand Ole Opry appearance was in November 2016 when he was recognized upon his 60th anniversary of joining the Grand Ole Opry. Over the past several years, Stonewall has had some health issues and earlier this year his wife Juanita passed away. He was also recently diagnosed with throat cancer.

Stonewall was one of the greatest honky-tonk singers of all time (in my opinion and that of a few others) and a valid argument can be made that he deserves election to the Country Music Hall of Fame. While not holding my breath, hopefully some day it will happen as Stonewall was certainly one of the best in his prime.
________________________________________________________________________

To finish it up for this week, let's take a moment to remember Grand Ole Opry member Steve Wariner, upon his 23rd anniversary as a member of the Grand Ole Opry.

Steve Wariner was born on Christmas Day in 1954. During his career, he has recorded for MCA, RCA, Arista and Capital Records. He has charted more than fifty singles on the Billboard country singles chart, including ten #1 hits: "All Roads Lead to You," "Some Fools Never Learn," "You Can Dream of Me," "Life's Highway," "Small Town Girl," "The Weekend," "Lynda," "Where Did I Go Wrong," and "I Got Dreams." Included in his No. 1 singles is his duet with Anita Cochran, "What IF I Said." In addition to his singles, three of his albums have been certified gold.

In addition to his recording success, Steve is also a successful songwriter. He has written hit songs not only for himself, but also for Clint Black, Garth Brooks, Keith Urban and Bryan White.

In addition, Steve has won four Grammy Awards and he is one of only five guitar players in the world to have been given the "Certified Guitar Player" award by Chet Atkins. In 2008 he was inducted into the Music City Walk of Fame and in 2008 he was elected to the Kentucky Music Hall of Fame.

Here is the running order from Saturday May 11, 1996, the night Steve Wariner became a member of the Grand Ole Opry:

1st show
6:30: GHS Strings
Grandpa Jones (host): Ball-Headed End of the Broom
Jeanne Pruett: Satin Sheets
Grandpa Jones: Kitty Klyde

6:45: Joggin' In A Jug
Mike Snider (host): Short Little Lulu/Clinch Mountain Back Step/Mississippi Sawyer
Bill Carlisle: Is Zat You Myrtle
Mike Snider: Battle Cry of Freedom/Get Your Hand Off My Knee and Load the Cannon

7:00: Shoney's
Porter Wagoner (host): Ol' Slewfoot
Jean Shepard: Bouquet of Roses
Billy Walker: Jesus Walks In
Skeeter Davis: The End of the World
Ray Pillow: Darling Take Pity on Me
Porter Wagoner: A Satisfied Mind/Big Wind

7:30: Standard Candy
Bill Anderson (host): But You Know I Love You
Chet Atkins: Instrumental
Steve Wariner and Chet Atkins: Have I Told You Lately That I Love You
Steve Wariner: Why Goodbye/Heart Trouble/Midnight Fire/What I Didn't Do/Lonely Women Make Good Lovers
Bill Anderson and Steve Wariner: The Tips of My Fingers

8:00: Martha White
Jimmy Dickens (host): May the Bird of Paradise Fly Up Your Nose
Sweethearts of the Rodeo: One More Night/Since I Found You
Riders In The Sky: Lonely River
Opry Square Dance Band and The Melvin Sloan Dancers: Durang's Hornpipe
Jimmy Dickens: A Death in the Family

8:30: Kraft
Jim Ed Brown (host): Fools
Jeannie Seely: Here Comes My Baby
Del Reeves: Wild Blood
The Whites: Pins and Needles/Swing Down Chariot
Jim Ed Brown: The Old Lamplighter/Looking Back to See

2nd show
9:30: Dollar General
Porter Wagoner (host): Y'All Come
Jeanne Pruett: Temporarily Yours
Brother Oswald: What A Friend We Have in Jesus
Steve Wariner: (?)/A Woman Loves/(?)

10:00: Massey Ferguson
Grandpa Jones (host): That New Vitamine
Jan Howard: Take Me As I Am (Or Let Me Go)
Grandpa Jones: My Little Old Home Down in New Orleans

10:15: Bio Red Foot Bath
Jimmy Dickens (host): Take an Old Cold Tater
Sweethearts of the Rodeo: Mule Skinner Blues
Jimmy Dickens: We Could

10:30: Purnell's Sausage
Mike Snider (host): Instrumental
Charlie Walker: Don't Squeeze My Sharmon
Mike Snider: The Fur Coat

10:45: Fairfield
Bill Anderson (host): Wild Weekend
Opry Square Dance Band and The Melvin Sloan Dancers: Acorn Hill
Bill Anderson: The Corner of My Life

11:00: Coca Cola
Jeannie Seely (host): Speaking of the Devil
Jim Ed Brown: The Family Bible
Billy Walker: When A Man Loves a Woman/Smokey Places
Riders In The Sky: Miss Molly/Always Drink Upstream from the Heard
Jeannie Seely: Here Comes My Baby

11:30: Loreal
Johnny Russell (host): Good Hearted Woman
Stu Phillips: Heart Over Mind
Jean Shepard: Farewell Party
The Whites: San Antonio Rose/Keep on the Sunny Side
Johnny Russell: Act Naturally

Again, congratulations to Steve Wariner upon his 23rd anniversary as a member of the Grand Ole Opry.

There you have it for this week. I did want to mention the show last Saturday night featuring Randy Travis and celebrating Randy's 60th birthday.  It was a great night and a great ending, with the entire group of artists on stage, with Randy, ending with "Forever and Ever, Amen." A true Opry moment.

I hope everyone enjoys the Grand Ole Opry this weekend and thanks for checking in this week.