Grand Ole Opry 8/30 & 8/31

I am not sure if everyone has seen the news or not, but former Grand Ole Opry Staff Band member Billy Linneman has passed away. I am not sure of the exact date, but it was around 2005 that Pete Fisher let Billy, along with several other Staff Band member, go. Billy played bass for a number of years and was very popular around the Opry, and well respected. Many have said that the Staff Band of the 1980s was one of the best in the history of the show. As I write this, I do not have any other details to share. 

So, while Vince Gill is not on the schedule for the Grand Ole Opry shows this weekend, Steve Wariner is. Steve is scheduled for both the Friday Night Opry and Saturday's Grand Ole Opry, and it is nice to see Steve back at the Opry. 

Joining Steve on Friday night will be a trio of Hall of Fame members: Connie Smith, Charlie McCoy and Don Schlitz, along with Riders In The Sky. While speaking of Connie, she recently celebrated her 59th year as a member of the Grand Ole Opry. (Actually, the 59th anniversary from when she originally joined the Opry as she did leave the Opry for a period of time).

Non-members on the Friday night schedule are Callista Clark, Mark & Maggie O'Connor, and making their Opry debut, The Cactus Blossoms. 

As mentioned, Steve Wariner is on the schedule for both shows this weekend, and joining Steve on Saturday night will be members Jeannie Seely, T. Graham Brown and Dailey & Vincent. Guesting are Drew Baldridge, Wendy Moten and Matt Schuster. 

Friday August 30
7:00: Riders In The Sky, Callista Clark, The Cactus Blossoms, Charlie McCoy
Intermission
8:15: Connie Smith, Mark & Maggie O'Connor, Steve Wariner, Don Schlitz

Saturday August 31
7:00: Opry Square Dancers, Jeannie Seely, Drew Baldridge, Grand Master Fiddle Champions, T. Graham Brown
Intermission
8:15: Matt Schuster, Steve Wariner, Opry Square Dancers, Wendy Moten, Dailey & Vincent

It is nice to see that Grand Ole Opry continuing the yearly tradition of having the Grand Master Fiddle Champions appearing on the Opry. The competition will take place earlier in the day, with a male and female winner. Both will be appearing. 

The Cactus Blossoms - Minneapolis-based brother duo Jack Torrey and Page Burkum, recently shared “Something’s Got A Hold One Me” the album opener from their upcoming new collection Every Time I Think About You, which is being released on Friday, the day of their Opry debut. A slice of pure Saturday night two-steppin’ joy, The Cactus Blossoms draw inspiration from timeless greats like Jimmie Rodgers - whose “Tuck Away My Lonesome Blues” served as a lyrical launching point in their writing process (and whose “Blue Yodel No. 1” is referenced in the first verse). But tracked with the brothers’ longtime bandmates Jeremy Hanson (drums), Jacob Hanson (guitar) and Phillip Hicks (bass) - as well as engineer/mixer Alex Hall (JD McPherson, Nick Lowe) - “Something’s Got A Hold On Me” is enrapturing in its exploration of motivations and desires in our modern world. “Something’s Got A Hold On Me” follows the release of the album’s title track “Every Time I Think About You” and “There She Goes,” which was named a Song You Need To Know by Rolling Stone after premiering on Sirius Outlaw Country. The Cactus Blossoms have a busy 2024 ahead, with an extensive headlining tour, an appearance at Nashville's Americana Fest, and more. 

From 50 years ago, Saturday August 31, 1974:

1st show
6:30: Charlie Louvin (host): Willis Brothers, Diane McCall
6:45: Wilburn Brothers (host): Lonzo & Oscar
7:00: Charlie Walker (host): Ernie Ashworth, Clay Hart, Del Wood
7:30: Roy Acuff (host): Billy Grammer, Barbara Fairchild, Crook Brothers, Tennessee Travelers
8:00: Porter Wagoner (host): Barbara Lea, Jimmy C Newman
8:30: Stonewall Jackson (host): Stu Phillips: Marilyn Sellars, Fruit Jar Drinkers

2nd show
9:30: Wilburn Brothers (host): Willis Brothers, Barbara Fairchild, Lonzo & Oscar
10:00: Jimmy C Newman (host): Del Wood, Clay Hart
10:15: Roy Acuff (host): Charlie Walker
10:30: Porter Wagoner (host): Barbara Lea, Mac McGaha
10:45: Billy Grammer (host): Ernie Ashworth, Crook Brothers, Tennessee Travelers
11:00: Charlie Louvin (host): Marilyn Sellars, Fruit Jar Drinkers, Diane McCall, Sam McGee
11:30: Stonewall Jackson (host): Stu Phillips, Ronnie Robbins

Connie Smith was scheduled for both shows but cancelled and while Ernest Tubb was not on the Opry that night, he did host the Midnite Jamboree. He had worked a show in Kentucky earlier that evening. 

Clay Hart, who appeared on the Opry that night, was a member of Lawrence Welk's television show from 1969-1975. He actually replaced Lynn Anderson as the shows designated country music singer. He was nominated for the Grammy Award for Best Male Country Vocal Performance for his 1969 single "Spring" but lost to Johnny Cash. He also released a solo album, Clay Hart: Most Requested Country Favorites from the Ranwood Records label. Clay married Sally Flynn on December 6, 1974. Flynn had been a vocalist on the Welk show until 1972. The two later became a country singing duo that has opened for stars such as Mel Tillis, Red Skelton, and Juliet Prowse. The couple later taped wraparound segments for reruns of the Welk Show on PBS and have toured the US with their fellow Welk stars in the Forever Blowing Bubbles concert series. Clay Hart passed away in 2022. 

And yes, Marilyn Sellars, who also appeared that night, was famous for the hit "One Day At A Time". 

In October 2021, the Grand Ole Opry celebrated its 5,000 Saturday night show. Show #4,000 took place almost 20 years earlier on August 31, 2002. Here is the running order from that special night: 

1st show
6:30: Tennessee Pride
Jimmy Dickens (host): Sleepin' At The Foot Of The Bed
Jimmy C Newman: La Cajun Band
Mel McDaniel: Louisiana Saturday Night/Stand Up
Billy Walker: Cross The Brazos At Waco
Jimmy Dickens: I'd Rather Sleep In Peace Than Know You're Gone

7:00: Opry/Standard Candy
Vince Gill (host): You Are My Sunshine
Amy Grant: I Need Thee Every Hour/Nothing But The Blood Of Jesus
Clint Black: A Better Man/(?)
Steve Wariner: Have I Told You Lately That I Love You
Vince Gill: Look At Us

8:00: Martha White
Porter Wagoner (host): Wake Up Jacob
Bill Carlisle: Worried Man Blues
Connie Smith: In The Garden
Mike Snider: Limerock/The Squirrel Hunter
Opry Square Dance Band & The Melvin Sloan Dancers: Blackberry Blossom

8:30: Physicians Mutual
Jeannie Seely (host): Hey Good Lookin'
Jean Shepard: Slippin' Away
Cindy Moore: Minnie Pearl Impersonator From Opryland
Rhonda Vincent: Kentucky Borderline/You Don't Love Your Neighbor, You Don't Love God
Jeannie Seely, Cindy Moore & Rhonda Vincent: Have I Told You Lately That I Love You

2nd show
9:30: Opry
Jimmy Dickens (host): Out Behind The Barn
Mel McDaniel: Stand Up
Vince Gill: If You Ever Have Forever On Your Mind/Look At Us
Jimmy Dickens: What Will I Do Then

10:00: Lincoln Mercury/Shoney's
Porter Wagoner (host): Sugarfoot Rag
Jim & Jesse: Ashes Of Love
Jimmy C Newman: Jambalaya
Clint Black: A Better Man/One More Payment & It's Mine
Porter Wagoner: The Girl In The Blue Velvet Band

10:30: Honest Abe Homes/Joggin' In A Jug
Jean Shepard (host): Head Over Heels In Love
Stu Phillips: The 10th Man
Steve Wariner: Have I Told You Lately That I Love You/Life's Highway
Opry Square Dance Band & The Melvin Sloan Dancers: Snow Flake Reel
Jean Shepard: Tennessee Waltz

11:00: Coca Cola
Jeannie Seely (host): It's Such A Pretty World Today
Cindy Moore: Minnie Pearl Impersonator From Opryland
Rhonda Vincent: Hit Parade Of Love/When I Close My Eyes/You're Running Wild
Jeannie Seely: Leaving And Saying Goodbye

11:30: Opry
Mike Snider (host): Waiting On The Federal/Breakdown/Possum Up A Simmon Tree
Ray Pillow: Someone Had To Teach You
Connie Smith: Singing The Blues/You've Got Me Right Where You Want Me
Mike Snider: (?) /Up Around The Bend

The 4,000 Saturday night Opry show was dedicated to Grand Ole Opry member Minnie Pearl. Also, during the televised segment on the first show, Barbara Mandrell appeared. She did not perform. Cindy Moore was the Minnie Pearl impersonator who appeared in the Opryland theme park and at the Grand Ole Opry House. 

To finish it up for this week, it was on Saturday January 7, 1950 that the legendary Hank Snow, The Singing Ranger, first appeared on the Grand Ole Opry, becoming an Opry member on the night of his Opry debut. Yes, they did things a little different back then. It was through the efforts of another legendary Opry member, Ernest Tubb, that brought Hank to Nashville and the Grand Ole Opry. Over time, Hank settled into hosting the 8:30 and 11:00 segments each Saturday night. 

Sadly, it all came to an end on Saturday August 31, 1996, when Hank made his final appearance on a Saturday night Grand Ole Opry show. Health issues forced Hank into retirement and no longer would the legendary Singing Ranger grace the Opry stage. 

I have posted the running order from that final Saturday night before, but in honor of Hank, here is the lineup once again, from 28 years ago: 

1st show
6:30: GHS Strings
Mike Snider (host): Tennessee Rhapsody/Cotton Eyed Joe
Bill Carlisle: Rusty Old Halo
Mike Snider: Shuckin' The Corn/Foggy Mountain Chimes

6:45: Joggin' In A Jug
Grandpa Jones (host): Ol' Blue
Jan Howard: My Heart Skips A Beat
Grandpa Jones: Gooseberry Pie

7:00: Shoney's
Johnny Russell (host): Good Hearted Woman
Charlie Louvin: The Precious Jewel
Jean Shepard: Let's All Go Down To The River/I Saw The Light/Will The Circle Be Unbroken/I'll Fly Away/Somebody Touched Me
Jim Ed Brown: The 3 Bells/Looking Back To See
Johnny Russell: Act Naturally

7:30: Standard Candy
Jeannie Seely (host): Burning That Old Memory
Cumberland Boys: Nothing But Love
Ray Pillow: She's Doing It To Me Again
Margaret Whiting: I Can't Help It
Opry Square Dance Band & The Melvin Sloan Dancers: Durang's Hornpipe
Jeannie Seely: When He Leaves You

8:00: Martha White
Porter Wagoner (host): On A Highway Headed South
Jeanne Pruett: Satin Sheets
Stonewall Jackson: Muddy Water
Del Reeves: Got A Little Bit Of Heaven On Earth
Charlie Walker: Pick Me Up On Your Way Down
Porter Wagoner: The Cowboy's Hat
Porter Wagoner & Christie Lynn: Forty Miles From Poplar Bluff

8:30: Kraft
Hank Snow (host): In The Misty Moonlight
Jimmy C Newman: Cajun's Dream
Stu Phillips: Colorado
The Whites: Pins & Needles
Connie Smith: Then & Only Then
Hank Snow: It Kinda Reminds Me Of Me

2nd show
9:30: Dollar General
Porter Wagoner (host): Tell Her Lies & Feed Her Candy
Brother Oswald: The Girl I Love Don't Pay Me No Mind
Jeanne Pruett: Temporarily Yours
Jimmy C Newman: Big Mamou/Texa-Cajun
Porter Wagoner: I Thought I Heard You Calling My Name/Freight Train Boogie

10:00: Massy Ferguson
Grandpa Jones (host): Fifteen Cents Is All I Got
Stonewall Jackson: Me & You & A Dog Named Boo
Grandpa Jones: Any Old Time

10:15: Opryland
Jean Shepard (host): I Thought Of You/It Wasn't God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels/You Win Again/A Dear John Letter
Roy Drusky: Waltz Of The Angels/One Day At A Time
Jean Shepard: A Phone Call Away

10:30: Purnell's
Jim Ed Brown (host): Pop A Top
Cumberland Boys: Today I Might Be Going Home
Jim Ed Brown & Kristi Russell: Lyin' In Love With You

10:45: Fairfield
Mike Snider (host): Lonesome Road Blues
Opry Square Dance Band & The Melvin Sloan Dancers: Ragtime Annie
Mike Snider: Battle Cry Of Freedom/Get You Hand Off My Knee & Load The Cannon

11:00: Coca Cola
Hank Snow (host): I Don't Hurt Anymore
Del Reeves: I Would Like To See You Again
Connie Smith: Amazing Grace
Charlie Walker: Who'll Buy The Wine
The Whites: He Took Your Place
Hank Snow: I Almost Lost My Mind

11:30: Loreal
Johnny Russell (host): Red Necks, White Socks & Blue Ribbon Beer
Stu Phillips: Blue Canadian Rockies
Jeannie Seely: Bubbles In My Beer
Ray Pillow: Someone Had To Teach You
Colleen Walters: Walkin' After Midnight

Hank Snow was missing from the Opry in 1996. Early in the year, he was on the schedule but cancelled due to a respiratory illness. As the year went on, his absence was more noticeable and raised concerns. Finally, on Friday August 9, Hank appeared on the Opry. However, he did not appear the following Saturday night. His next appearance was on this particular Saturday, August 31, which would be his final Saturday night. The following Friday, September 6, Hank appeared on the Friday Night Opry, which would be his final Opry show. He was scheduled for Saturday night but cancelled. The following Saturday night, September 14, he was listed on the Opry schedule for the final time but failed to appear. 

You can say what you want about the stars of the Grand Ole Opry today, but the glory days of Roy Acuff, Minnie Pearl, Ernest Tubb, Bill Monroe, Porter Wagoner, Grandpa Jones and yes, Hank Snow, are gone and will forever live in our memories. 

That will cover 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

There is a full schedule of mid-week Opry shows this week, beginning with the Tuesday Night Opry, followed by the Wednesday Night Opry and Opry Country Classics on Thursday night. 

The Tuesday Night Opry has Opry members Rhonda Vincent, Riders In The Sky and The Isaacs on the schedule, joined by Opry NextStage artist Niko Moon. Rounding out the schedule is Billy Dean, along with MacKenzie Carpenter, David Nail and making her Opry debut, Christian singer Terrian. 

Terrian is from Memphis, Tennessee and joined TobyMac's Diverse City band in 2017. After signing with Gotee Records Terrian released the singles "God With Us," "In The Arms, and Let Love Lead." In 2020 “Let Love Lead” was featured by Spotify in their Black Lives Matter playlist, where she was one of just two Christian & Gospel artists to have their music included. In 2021, Terrian was named one of Pandora’s Artists to Watch for that year and released her debut EP, Genesis of Terrian, which featured the No. 1 Billboard song "Light It Up” and the song “I’m in Love” which was featured on an episode of there CW’s All American: Homecoming. In 2023 she released the Top 20 Billboard hit song “Big God” while being named 1 of 7 Female Artists Shaping K-LOVE before releasing her debut full length album Give It Time earlier this year while on the 2024 TobyMac Hits Deep Tour. 

Now turning to Wednesday night, Opry members Del McCoury Band, Dailey & Vincent and Charlie McCoy are on the schedule. Joining them are a personal favorite of mine, Suzy Bogguss, along with comedian Killer Beaz, Opry NextStage artist Ernest, Erin Kinsey and making her Opry debut, Tia Sillers. 

Tia Sillers is a Grammy Award winning songwriter who has had success with over 40 singles, including Lee Ann Womack’s “I Hope You Dance,” The Chicks’ “There’s Your Trouble,” and Kenny Wayne Shepherd’s “Blue On Black.” “I Hope You Dance" received worldwide exposure, including the Nobel Prize awards ceremony and was adapted into a New York Times Best Selling book written by Sillers and her co-writer, Mark D. Sanders. In addition to winning Song of the Year at the 43rd Annual Grammy Awards, “I Hope You Dance” was named Song of the Year by CMA, ACM, NSAI, ASCAP, and BMI. More than 30 million records have been sold worldwide featuring Sillers’ compositions. Her catalogue has spanned genre, geography, and generations of recording artists, including David Nail, Trisha Yearwood, John Waite, Engelbert Humperdinck, Yolanda Robun, Little River Band, Patti Page, John Pardi, Jennifer Lopez, Bastian Baker, Tedeschi Trucks Band, and Vince Gill. 

Finally, on Thursday night, Opry Country Classics returns. Larry Gatlin is the host and Jamey Johnson is the Spotlight Artist. 

Opry Country Classics

Thursday August 29
Host: Larry Gatlin
Spotlight Artist: Jamey Johnson
Also Appearing: Gatlin Brothers, Sunny Sweeney, Darin & Brooke Aldridge, The Malpass Brothers

Grand Ole Opry 8/23 & 8/24

The lineups have been posted for the Opry shows this weekend and once again, Vince Gill is on the schedule for both the Friday Night Opry and Saturday's Grand Ole Opry. Vince means so much to the Opry and I think it is just wonderful that he finds time in his schedule to appear as often as he does. 

Joining Vince on Friday night will be Opry members Riders In The Sky and T. Graham Brown. Opry NextStage artist Madeline Edwards is also listed as are the Grascals, who have appeared on the Opry hundreds of times. Rounding out the lineup is Brandon Heath, along with their Opry debuts Brad Tursi and Pedal Steel Noah. 

Riders In The Sky are back with Vince on Saturday night, joined by members Bill Anderson, Don Schlitz and Jeannie Seely. Sister Sadie is on the schedule as is Daniel Donato, who will be making his Opry debut. 

Friday August 23
7:00: Riders In The Sky, Madeline Edwards, T. Graham Brown, Brandon Heath
Intermission
8:15: Pedal Steel Noah, The Grascals, Brad Tursi, Vince Gill

Saturday August 24
7:00: Opry Square Dancers, Riders In The Sky, Jeannie Seely, Daniel Donato, Sister Sadie
Intermission
8:15: Bill Anderson, Opry Square Dancers, Don Schlitz, Vince Gill

Brad Tursi is an award-winning songwriter and member of multi-Platinum selling band Old Dominion and has just completed his first solo collection, Parallel Love. In addition to his role with the reigning CMA and ACM Vocal Group of the Year, he has earned multiple CMA Triple Play Awards for writing three No. 1 songs in a 12-month period, been named AIMP Artist Writer of the Year, and co-written hits for Kenny Chesney, Luke Bryan, Tyler Hubbard, Josh Turner, Darius Rucker, and Cole Swindell, among others.  

Noah Faulkner is 16 and based out of Austin, Texas. He has won hearts with his daily Instagram videos, which feature him covering ‘80s and ‘90s hits on pedal steel. His brother plays bass, and their dog Kara looks on. Texas Monthly recently featured Noah for their “Best Thing In Texas” series, saying, “In an Austin revival of a traditionally Nashville sound, Faulkner brings the sliding notes and deep vibrato of pedal steel to his Gen Z peers.” At the age of 9, Noah taught himself the basics of piano and began formal study with Terry Allen’s son, the musician Bukka Allen, at age 10. After Bukka introduced him to the Texas music legend Lloyd Maines, Noah’s interest turned to the pedal steel. Maines helped Noah find his first pedal steel and gave him his first—and only—lesson. From there, Noah taught himself by watching videos of Maines and Buddy Emmons and by listening to other country music legends. Noah has been featured in the New York Times, Texas Monthly, Guitar World, Rolling Stone, Austin Chronicle and American Songwriter. 

Daniel Donato describes his music as Cosmic Country, a moniker that's both self-descriptive and a statement of purpose. It's an organic rock band aesthetic with plenty of roadhouse twang; a showcase for Donato's instrumental virtuosity and facility for melodically infectious songcraft. Bridging Nashville and the Great West, Kentucky and mid-60s northern California, tie-dye and plaid, it's a world of his own, and a wide world of musical adventure at that. If you are a fan of the Grateful Dead and the Jamband scene, you will appreciate his music. 

From 50 years ago, Saturday August 24, 1974

1st show
6:30: Charlie Walker (host): Jan Howard
6:45: Billy Grammer (host): Willis Brothers
7:00: Roy Acuff (host): Jimmy Dickens, Bobby Lewis
7:30: Osborne Brothers (host): Warner Mack, Louie Roberts, Crook Brothers, Tennessee Travelers
8:00: Wilburn Brothers (host): Jimmy C Newman, Sandy Burnette
8:30: David Houston (host): Connie Smith, Bill Carlisle, Fruit Jar Drinkers

2nd show
9:30: Billy Grammer (host): Willis Brothers, Jan Howard
10:00: Osborne Brothers (host): Bobby Lewis, Sandy Burnette
10:15: Roy Acuff (host): Charlie Walker
10:30: Wilburn Brothers (host): Bill Carlisle, Jimmy Dickens
10:45: Jimmy C Newman (host): Warner Mack, Crook Brothers, Tennessee Travelers
11:00: David Houston (host): Louie Roberts, Fruit Jar Drinkers, Sam McGee
11:30: Marty Robbins (host): Connie Smith, Ronnie Robbins

(As a reminder, Jimmy Dickens was not a member of the Grand Ole Opry at that time)

Now going way back, here is the running order from August 24, 1957, 67 years ago: 

7:30: Nabisco
Ernest Tubb (host): I Know My Baby Loves Me
Bobby Thomas: TBA
McCormick Sisters: TBA
Ernest Tubb: You're Breaking My Heart
Fiddle Tune: Fire On The Mountain

7:45: American Ace
Jordanaires: Theme
Johnny & Jack: I Want To Be Loved
Kitty Wells: Searching
Gorden Terry: Johnson's Old Grey Mule
Johnny & Jack: Where The Soul Of Man Never Dies
Fiddle Tune: Mississippi Sawyer

8:00: Martha White
Flatt & Scruggs: Before I Met You
Ray Price: My Shoes Keep Walking Back To You
Wilburn Brothers: Great Big Love
Justin Tubb: You Nearly Lose Your Mind
Flatt & Scruggs: Give Mother My Crown
Ray Price: Don't Do This To Me
Ladell Sisters: TBA
Possum Hunters: Tennessee Wagoner
Wilburn Brothers: Nothing At All
Flatt & Scruggs: Shucking The Corn

8:30: Prince Albert
Hank Snow: Tangled Mind
Jordanaires: Sugaree
Lonzo & Oscar: Fallen Star No. 2
Fiddle Tune: Old Joe Clark
Hank Snow: The Last Mile Of The Way
Chet Atkins: Please Don't Talk About Me When I'm Gone
Rod Brasfield: Comedy
Lonzo & Oscar: Charming Betsy
Del Wood: Are You From Dixie
Hank Snow: These Hands
Fiddle Tune: Soldiers Joy

9:00: Jefferson Island Salt
Jordanaires: Theme
Ernest Tubb: This Troubled Mind Of Mine
Johnny & Jack: Oh Boy How I Love Her
Benny Martin: I Saw Your Face In The Moon
Kitty Wells: I'll Always Be Your Fraulein
Ernest Tubb: Treat Her Right
Stringbean: That's What I Like About The South
T. Texas Tyler: Bumming Around
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Soldier's Joy
Johnny & Jack: I Get So Lonely
Ernest Tubb: Daisy May

9:30: Stephens
Ladell Sisters: Theme
Ray Price: Crazy Arms
Wilburn Brothers: Mixed Up Medley
Steve Shulte: TBA
Flatt & Scruggs: Six White Horses
Ray Price: Letters Have No Arms
Ladell Sisters: TBA
Wilburn Brothers: Carefree Moments
Crook Brothers: Mississippi Sawyer
Flatt & Scruggs: Bugle Call Rag
Ray Price: I've Got A New Heartache

10:00: Wall-Rite
Justin Tubb: If You'll Be My Love
Jordanaires: When The Saints Go Marching In
Del Wood: TBA
Justin Tubb: The Party Is Over
Fiddle Tune: Kitty Hill

10:15: Delited
Ladelle Sisters: Theme
T. Texas Tyler: TBA
McCormick Brothers: TBA
Ladell Sisters: TBA
Fiddle Tune: Sally Goodin

10:30: Hester Battery
Ernest Tubb: Don't Forbid Me
Benny Martin: Look What You've Done
Chet Atkins: Silver Bells
Ernest Tubb: Mississippi Gal
Fiddle Tune: Billy In The Low Ground

10:45: De Con
Johnny & Jack: That's Why I'm Leaving
Kitty Wells: What I Believe
Crook Brothers: Bill Cheatham
Johnny & Jack: South Of New Orleans
Fiddle Tune: Grey Eagle

11:00: Coca Cola
Jordanaires: Theme
Hank Snow: Caribbean
Flatt & Scruggs: On My Mind
Bobby Thomas: TBA 
Rod Brasfield: Comedy
Hank Snow: My Arms Are A House
Stringbean: Roving Gambler
Gorden Terry: TBA
Gully Jumpers: Tennessee Wagoner
Flatt & Scruggs: Rainbow
Hank Snow: Riding On A Broomstick To Glory

11:30: Jamison
Jordanaires: Theme
Ray Price: Wasted Words
Steve Shultz: TBA
Jordanaires: Sugaree
Ray Price: I've Got A New Heartache
Fiddle Tune: Bile Them Cabbage Down

11:45: Sustaining
Wilburn Brothers: I'm Setting You Free
Sam & Kirk: Dark Night
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Take Me Back To Tulsa
Wilburn Brothers: Go Away With Me
Fiddle Tune: Fire On The Mountain

The McCormick Brothers and Ladell Sisters might be a name that some will recognize: 

The McCormick Brothers, (William, Haskell, Gerald, Lloyd, and Kelly) were based in Gallatin, Tennessee and were considered one of the top bluegrass bands in the 1950s. They began performing together in 1945 and recorded for Fred Rose’s Hickory record label. In 1955, they recorded the original version of “The Bugle Call Rag.” Their signature song was the lighthearted “Red Hen Boogie.” In 1970, recorded an album for Metromedia Records called “Brass Meets Grass” featuring horns with bluegrass instrumentation. Haskell also worked with country singer Marty Robbins and played banjo with Lester Flatt’s Nashville Grass (1971-1973). While with Lester, he recorded two originals: “McCormick String Picnic” and “The Haskel Stomp.” Overtime, the group gradually faded out as members of the band passed away. 

The Ladell Sisters actually formed backstage in 1955. They had an in: Inez Haynes’ husband was steel guitarist Walter Haynes, and Helen Chance was married to bassist Floyd ‘Lightnin’ Chance (they’d previously been members of The La Croix Sisters). Delores Pinson had sung with The Dinning Sisters (no one in the group was named La Dell). The trio had an all-too-brief recording career: three Mercury singles cut over the course of two sessions that all saw release in 1956. Hasta Luego b/w Say It Again was their debut platter at the start of the year. Lightnin’ wrote the jumping Rockin’ Robert for The La Dells’ Mercury encore outing, complete with a wild two-chorus guitar break (the flip was a remake of Marty Robbins’ You Don’t Owe Me A Thing). The La Dells bowed out that fall with a harmonic reading of Boudleaux and Felice Bryant’s Don’t Wait For Tomorrow, twinned with the immortal Frankie’s Out On Parole. The trio guested on the TV shows ‘Stars of The Grand Ole Opry’ and ‘Country Style U.S.A.’ during their brief existence and performed a high-stepping Wang Dang Doo in the 1958 film musical ‘Country Music Holiday’ as stars Ferlin Husky and June Carter looked on.

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. 

Tuesday Night Opry 8/20 & Opry Country Classics 8/22

Grand Ole Opry members Little Big Town are celebrating their 25th Anniversary as a group and as part of the celebration, they will be appearing on the Tuesday Night Opry this week. 

The four voices of bandmates Karen Fairchild, Kimberly Schlaman, Jimi Westbrook and Phillip Sweet combine to create Little Big Town. The group's members can truly say that for them, it all began at the Grand Ole Opry. For it was on the Opry stage on May 21, 1999, that Little Big Town made its very first public appearance as a band,

Not only will be group be appearing on the Grand Ole Opry on Tuesday night, but, according to a press release: NBC has announced that Little Big Town will be hosting what promises to be an unforgettable holiday special entitled, Little Big Town’s Christmas at The Opry”. The special will be a festive 2-hour musical extravaganza from Nashville’s iconic Grand Ole Opry, featuring performances from the band alongside lots of exciting special guests.  More information coming soon…

Joining Little Big Town on Tuesday night will be Opry members Vince Gill and The Oak Ridge Boys, along with Opry NextStage artist Wyatt Flores, Ashley Ray, Shelby Lynne and making their Opry debut, The Castellows. 

Tuesday August 20
7:00: Little Big Town, Ashley Ray, The Castellows, Vince Gill
Intermission
8:15: Wyatt Flores, Shelby Lynne, Oak Ridge Boys, Little Big Town

(Yes, on the schedule posted, Little Big Town is opening and closing the show). 

Neo-Traditional Country music trio, The Castellows, are bringing a literal meaning to the phrase, “family tradition.” The band comprised of sisters Ellie (lead guitar), Powell (banjo) and Lily (vocals), hail from small rural Georgetown, Georgia, but now call Nashville home. The Castellows’ sound is traditional, yet modern. Authentic, yet harnessed. The common thread among the trio, other than their DNA, is their masterful three-part harmonies which blend together to create one singular, almost angelic, voice. The Castellows’ craft as songwriters is as robust as their voices, which is evident across the trio’s debut EP, A Little Goes A Long Way, releasing February 9, 2024.

While there is no Wednesday Night Opry this week, there is Opry Country Classics on Thursday night, hosted as usual by Larry Gatlin. Crystal Gayle is the Spotlight Artist this week.

Opry Country Classics
Thursday August 22
Host: Larry Gatlin
Spotlight Artist: Crystal Gayle
Also Appearing: Gatlin Brothers, Don Schlitz, T. Graham Brown, Marynn Taylor

Grand Ole Opry 8/16 & 8/17

You have to admit that this past week was a special one at the Grand Ole Opry. Nice to see Luke Combs back on the Opry stage and hopefully he will be back soon. And what else can be said about Post Malone? He was outstanding, as were each of the others on the schedule. No matter what takes place on a given night, the Grand Ole Opry is special and is making history each show. 

Now moving on to this weekend, the Friday Night Opry has only two Opry members on the schedule: Don Schlitz and Riders In The Sky. Adam Wainwright is back for a repeat performance after his successful debut a few weeks back, as are Opry NextStage artists Restless Road. Po' Ramblin' Boys will be bringing the bluegrass sound, with Mickey Guyton and Monte Warden returning. Finally, Angie K will be making her Opry debut. 

On Saturday night, Opry members Mandy Barnett, John Conlee, Riders In The Sky, Gene Watson and Jeannie Seely are on the schedule. For those who might have missed it, Jeannie was recently hospitalized, which explains her absence from the Opry over the past several shows. The news of the hospitalization came via a statement. Jeannie checked into a Pennsylvanian hospital for symptoms of dehydration as well as acute diverticulitis. 

As Jeannie was quoted as saying, “It had not crossed my mind to visit a hospital on my trip home, but when it became necessary, it was yet another opportunity to experience Pennsylvania hospitality. I could not have received better care or more respect than I did at St. Clare Hospital in Pittsburgh, or the courtesy shown at Pittsburgh International Airport.”

Since her return to Nashville, she has been resting and improving. It will certainly be nice to have her back at the Opry this weekend. 

In addition to the Opry members listed, Charles Esten, with over 150 guest appearances on the Opry is scheduled, as are Opry NextStage artists Chapel Hart and Pure Prairie League. 

Friday August 16
7:00: Riders In The Sky, Restless Road, Angie K, Monte Warden
Intermission
8:15: Po' Ramblin' Boys, Adam Wainwright, Mickey Guyton, Don Schlitz

Saturday August 17
7:00: Opry Square Dancers, Jeannie Seely, Chapel Hart, John Conlee, Charles Esten
Intermission
8:15: Gene Watson, Mandy Barnett, Opry Square Dancers, Pure Prairie League, Riders In The Sky

Angie K, who is making her Opry debut on Friday night, was born in El Salvador and raised in Georgia, Angie K’s love for country music was nurtured from a young age. Her mother saved up to take her to the Grand Ole Opry, which has come full circle as she prepares to make her Grand Ole Opry debut this Friday, fulfilling a lifelong dream. She first turned heads in Nashville with a nod to her Latin roots when her first single, the bilingual “Real Talk,” catapulted her onto the country scene as a Highway Find on SiriusXM’s The Highway. The 2024 CMT Listen Up Artist just released a new track “Death of Me,” which follows another recent release “Red Dirt on Mars.” She has been in the studio working on new music with songwriter/producer Stephony Smith, and is represented by JR Schumann for management.

While Monte Warden has appeared on the Opry previously, he did release this statement regarding his Friday night appearance: 

36 years ago this month, I was blessed to pick The Grand Ole Opry for the very 1st time with The Wagoneers (I have been privileged to pick The Opry again in '04 and '11) - I am beyond blessed to have been invited to pick it again on Fri - as in THIS Fri! It's the 47th anniversary of ELVIS PRESLEY's passing and The Opry has asked if I would pay tribute to Elvis with 'That's Alright Mama' and 'Blue Moon of Kentucky', the only two songs Elvis EVER picked on The Opry and also do a song of my own. I am closing out my portion by doing 'Steadfast Love' from the new Monte Warden and The Dangerous Few album - it's a Gospel song Brandi and I wrote in the tradition of Elvis' Spirituals, particularly those he cut in the late 60s and early 70s....and...BROOKS WARDEN IS JOININ' ME ONSTAGE to sing the bass part!!! Friends...just...blessed. Can you imagine how impossible it's gonna be for Brandi to even almost hold it together while I sing a song SHE co-wrote...with Brooks singin'...ON...THE...OPRY?!? Whew....

From 50 years ago, Saturday August 17, 1974: 

1st show
6:30: Mrs. Grissoms
Willis Brothers (host): Truck Stop
Arlene Harden: Leave Me Alone
Willis Brothers: Hillbilly Heaven

6:45: Rudy's
Lonzo & Oscar (host): Rollin' In My Sweet Baby's Arms
David Wilkins: Georgia Keeps Pulling On My Ring/Too Much Hold Bank
Lonzo & Oscar: Mountain Dew

7:00: Rudy's
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper (host): Black Mountain Rag
Bill Carlisle: No Help Wanted
Del Wood: Leaning On The Everlasting Arms
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper: The Birds Are Back
Bill Carlisle: Have A Drink On Me
Del Wood: Alabama Jubilee
Wilma Lee & Carolee Cooper: Give Me The Roses While I Live

7:30: Standard Candy
Roy Acuff (host): Back In The Country
Dolly Parton: Jolene
Louie Roberts: Peace In The Valley
Crook Brothers & Tennessee Travelers: Black Mountain Rag
Roy Acuff: Wabash Cannonball
Dolly Parton: Love Is Like A Butterfly
Roy Acuff: I'll Fly Away

8:00: Martha White
Billy Grammer (host): Bonaparte's Retreat
Jan Howard: Love Is Like A Spinning Wheel
Nat Stuckey: Don't Pay The Ransom
Billy Grammer: Under The Double Eagle
Jan Howard: God Bless America Again
Nat Stuckey: It Hurts To Know The Feeling's Gone
Billy Grammer: Let Me Call You Sweetheart

8:30: Stephens
Hank Snow (host): I'm Moving On
Marion Worth: You're The Reason I'm Living
Brian Shaw: The Devil Is A Woman
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Hickory Leaf
Hank Snow: Paper Roses
Marion Worth: Kentucky Rose
Hank Snow: Hello Love

2nd show
9:30: Kellogg's
Billy Grammer (host): Gotta Travel On
Willis Brothers: Bob
Jan Howard: Poison Red Berries
Billy Grammer: Birth Of The Blues
Willis Brothers: There Goes The Farm
Jan Howard: Seeing Is Believing
Billy Grammer: Just A Closer Walk With Thee

10:00: Fender
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper (host): I'm Going Home On The Morning Train
Arlene Harden: Leave Me Alone
Del Wood: Beer Barrel Polka
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper: Don't Let Your Sweet Love Die

10:15: Union 76
Bill Carlisle (host): No Help Wanted
Nat Stuckey: Sweet Thang/It Hurts To Know The Feeling's Gone
Bill Carlisle: I'm Moving

10:30: Trailblazer
Roy Acuff (host): Old Sunshine Song
Dolly Parton: Love Is Like A Butterfly/I Will Always Love You
Roy Acuff: The Great Speckled Bird

10:45: Beechnut
Lonzo & Oscar (host): Charming Betsy
David Wilkins: Too Much Holdback
Crook Brothers & The Tennessee Travelers: Ida Red
Lonzo & Oscar: From Your Shoulders To Mine

11:00: Coca Cola
Hank Snow (host): I've Been Everywhere
Louie Roberts: Anytime/Bouquet Of Roses/Cattle Call
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Walking In My Sleep
Hank Snow: I Keep Dreaming Of You All The Time
Louie Roberts: Alola
Sam McGee: Freight Train/I Don't Love Nobody/Rubber Dolly
Hank Snow: That's You & Me

11:30: Elm Hill
Marty Robbins (host): Devil Woman
Marion Worth: You're The Reason I'm Living
Brian Shaw: Ohio, Why Did I Go
Ronnie Robbins: If You Love Me, Let Me Know
Marty Robbins: Love Me/Big Boss Man/I'm Wanting To/My Woman, My Woman, My Wife/El Paso

A couple of notes from that night: 

It was very rare that Lonzo & Oscar or Bill Carlisle hosted segments on the Opry. With the slim number of Opry members on the show, both acts were given the opportunity. 

Dolly Parton did both the Friday Night Opry and Saturday's Grand Ole Opry that weekend. She would make only one more Opry appearance in 1974, which would take place in October during the Opry's annual birthday celebration. 

While she was not scheduled that night, Minnie Pearl did the introduction when Wilma Lee & Stoney sang "Don't Let Your Sweet Love Die" on the second show. 

Finally, Brian Shaw was scheduled for both shows. Brian had a fairly short career in the 1970s in which he charted 6 hits on the country charts between 1973-1977. His biggest was "Here We Go Again" which reached #17. 

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

This will be a very busy week at the Grand Ole Opry House as on Tuesday night, Opry member Luke Combs will celebrate his 5th anniversary as a member of the Grand Ole Opry and Post Malone will be making his Opry debut on Wednesday night. I have been told both shows are sold out, and frankly, I am surprised that a 2nd show was not added on either night. 

Luke Combs made his Opry debut on October 29, 2016, and became an Opry member on July 16, 2019. I will be honest that I had expected more from Luke when he joined. While he generates excitement when he has been at the Opry, his appearances have been few. His last Opry appearance took place in 2022. Prior to joining the Opry, he had made 14 guest appearances, while he has appeared 10 times in the last five years since his induction. There are some who believe that he may have become an Opry member too early in his career. You can't argue with the success that Luke has had, but it would be nice if he appeared on the Opry more than a couple of times a year. 

Joining Luke Combs on the Tuesday Night Opry will be Opry members Bill Anderson, Henry Cho, Riders In The Sky and Pam Tillis. Guesting are Drake Milligan and Avery Anna. 

Wednesday night will be very interesting as Post Malone is making his Opry debut. To some of us, that is not a surprise as once he decided to make a country album, it was only a matter of time until he was invited to appear. The invitation came from Opry member Brad Paisley, who will be joining him on the Opry that night. The Opry's newest member (for now) Lainey Wilson is on the schedule, as is Vince Gill. Rounding out the lineup is John Michael Montgomery and The War And Treaty. 

We shall see how long Post Malone sticks to his country career, but I can tell you since he debuted on the music scene a decade ago, he has had phenomenal success, sold millions of albums and won numerous awards. His concert tours have done very well, and his fall tour will take him to arenas and outdoor stadiums, including Nissan Stadium in Nashville in October. Post Malone's new album, "F-1 Trillion," features his duets with some of the biggest names in country, including Luke Combs, Blake Shelton, Morgan Wallen and Dolly Parton.

Rounding out the week on Thursday night will be Opry Country Classics. Larry Gatlin is once again the host, and the Spotlight Artist will be Opry member Ricky Skaggs. The Gatlin Brothers are set to appear as are Mandy Barnett, Rhett Akins and Shawna Thompson. 

Certainly, a busy week for the Opry. 

Grand Ole Opry 8/9 & 8/10

I don't know what to make of the Grand Ole Opry shows this weekend. What I mean is that they are good shows, but not great ones. The upcoming mid-week shows featuring Luke Combs celebrating his 5th year as an Opry member, and the Opry debut of Post Malone the following night with Brad Paisley is where the attention will be. 

So, looking at the Friday Night Opry, Opry members John Conlee, Charlie McCoy and Jeannie Seely are on the schedule. Jeannie missed the Opry again last weekend and hopefully she is feeling much better. Saturday's Grand Ole Opry will also feature only three Opry members on the schedule: Connie Smith, Don Schlitz and Rhonda Vincent. 

Deana Carter and Michael Ray head the list of non-members on the schedule for Friday, in addition to Cochren & Co., Amythyst Kiah, and making his Opry debut, Evan Honer. 

Another Grand Ole Opry debut will be taking place on Saturday night as Jobi Riccio will be appearing. Also on the schedule is Hall of Fame member Jimmy Fortune, Everette, Katy Nichole and Wood Box Heroes. 

Friday August 9
7:00: Jeannie Seely, Evan Honer, John Conlee, Cochren & Co. 
Intermission
8:15: Amythyst Kiah, Michael Ray, Deana Carter, Charlie McCoy

Saturday August 10
7:00: Opry Square Dancers, Rhonda Vincent, Everette, Katy Nichole, Jimmy Fortune
Intermission
8:15: Connie Smith, Jobi Riccio, Opry Square Dancers, Wood Box Heroes, Don Schlitz

Evan Honer, who is making his Opry debut on Friday night, is a songwriter originally from Surprise, Arizona. Influenced by esteemed artists like Jason Isbell, Tyler Childers, and Colter Wall, he has masterfully crafted a captivating blend of modern outlaw country, indie folk, and pop sensibilities. Despite only being 22 years old, Evan has garnered an impressive 50 million+ streams across platforms and will be extensively touring as a 100% independent artist.

Jobi Riccio is from Morrison, Colorado. She grew up surrounded by music and found inspiration in artists ranging from Sheryl Crow to Joni Mitchell. She has received significant acclaim for her songwriting, including winning the 2019 NewSong Music Competition and the 2019 Lee Villiare Scholarship from her alma mater Berklee College of Music. More recently Jobi was awarded the 2023 Newport Folk Festival John Prine Fellowship, chosen as a 2024 Luck Reunion Artist On The Rise and is nominated for the Americana Music Association's 2024 Americana Honors and Awards in the category of Emerging Artist of the Year. Her debut album, Whiplash has garnered praise from The New York Times, Billboard, NPR, and The Nashville Scene to name a few. 

              

From 50 years ago, Saturday August 10, 1974

1st show
6:30: Willis Brothers (host): Merle Kilgore
6:45: Billy Grammer (host): Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper
7:00: Jimmy C Newman (host): Jan Howard, Joe Douglas
7:30: Roy Acuff (host): Jeanne Pruett, Cal Smith, Crook Brothers, Tennessee Travelers
8:00: George Morgan (host): Connie Smith, Bobby Lewis
8:30: Ernest Tubb (host): Stu Phillips, Marion Worth, Fruit Jar Drinkers, Wayne Hammond

2nd show
9:30: Billy Grammer (host): Willis Brothers, Jeanne Pruett
10:00: Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper (host): Merle Kilgore
10:15: Ernest Tubb (host): Cal Smith, Joe Douglas
10:30: Roy Acuff (host): Jan Howard
10:45: Jimmy C Newman (host): Bobby Lewis, Crook Brothers, Tennessee Travelers, Joe Edwards
11:00: George Morgan (host): Connie Smith, Fruit Jar Drinkers, Bill Simpson, Sam McGee
11:30: Stu Phillips (host): Marion Worth, Ronnie Robbins

Joe Douglas was a Cajun/Country musician and was known as "Cajun Joe Douglas." His band was known as the American Cajun Band and in the early 1970s he was at the beginning of his career. Bill Simpson was a local singer from Madison. 

August 10, 2002, was a special night at the Grand Ole Opry. During the televised portion of the show, the Dixie Chicks, who were guesting that night, introduced Opry members Porter Wagoner and Bill Carlisle and announced that they were elected as the newest members of the Country Music Hall of Fame. What I will always remember from that night was the expression on Porter's face. To me, it was one of those, what took it so long looks. If memory serves me correctly, neither Porter nor Bill said anything. The Medallion Ceremony took place later in the year, with Dolly Parton inducting Porter. 

Here is the running order from that night 22 years ago: 

1st show
6:30: Tennessee Pride
Jimmy Dickens (host): Out Behind The Barn
Jimmy C Newman: Colinda
Jim Ed Brown: The 3 Bells
Bering Strait: I Could Be Persuaded/(?)
Jimmy Dickens: Mountain Dew

7:00: Opry/Standard Candy
Brad Paisley (host): I'm Gonna Miss Her
Jamie O'Neal: There Is No Arizona/When I Think About Angels
Lee Greenwood: I Will Not Go Quietly/(?)/God Bless The USA
Brad Paisley: I Wish You'd Stay
Dixie Chicks: A Long Time Gone/White Trash Wedding
Brad Paisley: (?)

8:00: Martha White
Porter Wagoner (host): Wake Up, Jacob
Bill Carlisle: Hand Me Down My Walking Cane
Jeannie Seely: Anytime
Connie Smith: Did We Have To Come This Far To Say Goodbye
Porter Wagoner & Opry Cast: Happy Birthday Connie
Opry Square Dance Band: Snow Flake Reel
Porter Wagoner: On A Highway Headed South

8:30: Physicians Mutual
John Conlee (host): Got My Heart Set On You
George Hamilton IV: We Will Meet Again
Jean Shepard: I'll Sail My Ship Alone
Hal Ketchum: A 5 O'clock World/Stay Forever
John Conlee: Busted

2nd show
9:30: Dream Works
Jimmy Dickens (host): Sleepin' At The Foot Of The Bed
Hal Ketchum: But I Do
Charlie Walker: Who'll Buy The Wine
Dixie Chicks: A Long Time Gone/White Trash Wedding
Jimmy Dickens: Life Turned Her That Way

10:00: Lincoln Mercury/Shoney's
Porter Wagoner (host): Tell Her Lies & Feed Her Candy
Jan Howard: Heartaches By The Numbers
Billy Walker: Adam's Side
Brad Paisley: Wrapped Around/I'm Gonna Miss Her

10:30: Honest Abe Log Cabins/Joggin' In A Jug
Jean Shepard (host): Head Over Heels In Love
Holly Dunn: You Really Had Me Going
Lee Greenwood: Right Here/God Bless The USA
Opry Square Dance Band: Blackberry Blossom
Jean Shepard, Jeannie Seely & Jan Howard: Satin Sheets

11:00: Coca Cola
John Conlee (host): Common Man
Jack Greene: Mr. Sunshine/Statue Of A Fool
Jamie O'Neal: There Is No Arizona/When I Think About Angels
John Conlee: Rose Colored Glasses/Amazing Grace

11:30: Opry
Jeannie Seely (host): Hey, Good Lookin'
Connie Smith: Just For What I Am/Runaway Little Tears/Nobody But A Fool/Tiny Blue Transistor Radio/I Never Once Stopped Loving You/If It Ain't Love/If I Talked To Him/Ain't Had No Lovin'
Bering Strait: Going Home Feels Like Movin/(?)
Jeannie Seely: I Can't Stop Loving You

(George Hamilton was scheduled to host the 11:30 segment, however he only did the first show. Because of that, Jeannie hosted the segment and Connie Smith did a melody of her hits). 

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. Take care.