Grand Ole Opry 2/28 & 3/1

After the excitement of seeing Ringo Starr at the Grand Ole Opry last weekend, it's back to a more traditional lineup this weekend highlighted by Opry member Vince Gill, who is scheduled to appear both nights. In case it was missed, Vince announced last week that he will be going on a summer tour to celebrate 50 years as a touring artist. 

As Vince said in a press release, "I left home 50 years ago to try and become an accomplished musician and perform in front of whoever would show up. All these years later, it feels as special today as it ever did." He is taking a group of all-star musicians with him, including Jim "Moose" Brown, Tom Bukovac, Eddie Dunlap, Jedd Hughes, John Jarvis, Jimmie Lee Sloas, Billy Thomas and Jeff White, In addition, Wendy Moten will be along with supporting vocals. The tour kicks off in Rochester, New York on May 8 and concludes with a four-night residency at the Ryman Auditorium in August. 

As someone who saw Vince during his last concert tour, I highly recommend seeing Vince if he is coming to a city near you. 

In addition to Vince Gill, the Friday Night Opry includes Opry members The Isaacs, Oak Ridge Boys, Riders In The Sky and Jon Pardi. There are also two Opry NextStage artists on the schedule: Kashus Culpepper and Kameron Marlowe. Round out the group is Willow Avalon, who will be making her Opry debut. 

Vince Gill and the Oak Ridge Boys are back on Saturday night, along with Bill Anderson, Don Schlitz, Marty Stuart, and Connie Smith, who has not appeared on the Opry since the first Friday in January. Opry NextStage artist Charles Wesley Godwin.

While not on the schedule, there will be an Opry debut on Saturday night. As Marty Stuart posted in a video, I recently got to surprise young Ben Scruggs with an invitation to join me and the Fabulous Superlatives at the Grand Ole Opry. Come see our special guest on March 1! Ben is the son of Chris Scruggs, one of Marty's Superlatives. 

Friday February 28

7:00: Riders In The Sky, Kashus Culpepper, Willow Avalon, The Isaacs

Intermission

8:20: Kameron Marlowe, Vince Gill, Oak Ridge Boys, Jon Pardi

Saturday March 1

7:00: Opry Square Dancers, Bill Anderson, Connie Smith, Charles Wesley Godwin, Oak Ridge Boys
Intermission

8:20: Marty Stuart, Opry Square Dancers, Don Schlitz, Vince Gill

Willow Avalon, who is making her Opry debut on Friday night, grew up surrounded by gospel and country music. She began playing piano in church and taught herself guitar at age 12, quickly turning to songwriting as a means of escape and salvation. At just 15, she left home and spent a brief period living in her car before making her way to California. Now based in New York, Avalon writes, plays and produces her own music alongside a small group of trusted collaborators, crafting a sound that refreshingly blends classic country and Americana. Her debut EP, Stranger, has racked up over 30 million streams, and her songs "Tequila and Whiskey" and "Homewrecker" have earned widespread attention. Avalon’s unique style has led her to share stages with artists like Charles Wesley Godwin, Paul Cauthen, Cage the Elephant and more. Her debut album was released in January. 

One night a year, beginning in 1978 and lasting for the following three years, the Public Broadcast Service televised the Grand Ole Opry. For many Opry fans, it was their only time that they were able to see an entire Opry show televised, and PBS drew large audiences for those shows. 

From the Nashville, Tennessean (February 28, 1980)

One of public television's highest rated shows, "Live From the Grand Ole Opry," kicks of the Festival '80 fundraising drive tomorrow night beginning at 6 p.m. on WDCN (Channel 8). The third annual live telecast of the Opry will actually be two regular Opry shows back-to-back in order to make room for over 50 country artists, including Hank Snow, Roy Acuff, Ronnie Milsap and Loretta Lynn. 

Last year's show drew the second largest audience ever for a nationwide public television audience. Among the contributions public television has received during Opry telecasts are mink pelts and ounces of gold. 

Since commercials can't be aired on public television, some of the commercial portions of the Opry will be replaced by short features such as backstage interviews or a visit to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. In other spots, WDCN will appeal for memberships. 

Bob Boatman will direct and co-produce the show with executive producer Harmon McBride. 

The Opry is the longest running live radio show and is heard in 32 states over WSM. Although performers don't announce their participation until shortly before performances, the national audience of "Life From the Opry" has drawn greater numbers of stars onto the Opry Stage. 

 The 3rd of the four shows took place 45 years ago, on Saturday March 1, 1980. Here is the running order from that night: 

1st show

6:00: Vietti

Del Reeves (host): Crazy Arms/My Shoes Keep Walking Back To You

Jean Shepard: Then He Touched Me

Wilburn Brothers: God Bless America Again

David Houston: There's A Star-Spangled Banner Waving Somewhere

Del Wood: 12th Street Rag

Del Reeves: Take Me To Your Heart & Let Me Live There

6:45: Mrs. Grissoms

Charlie Louvin (host): I Don't Love You Anymore/Think I'll Go Somewhere And Cry Myself To Sleep/See The Big Man Cry

Connie Smith: Satisfied

Hank Locklin: Send Me The Pillow You Dream On

Charlie Louvin: Love Don't Care

6:45: Rudy's

Charlie Walker (host): Don't Play Me No Songs About Texas

Skeeter Davis: It Wasn't God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels

Ernie Ashworth: There's No Place I'd Rather Be Tonight

Charlie Walker: Pick Me Up On Your Way Down

7:00: Shoney's

Porter Wagoner (host): Tennessee Saturday Night

Stonewall Jackson: Don't Be Angry

Loretta Lynn: Coal Miner's Daughter/We've Come A Long Way Baby

Justin Tubb: What's Wrong With The Way That We're Doing It Now

Jim & Jesse: Freight Train

Porter Wagoner: Everything I've Always Wanted

7:30: Standard Candy

Roy Acuff (host): Down In Union County

Minnie Pearl: Careless Love

Jimmy Dickens: Another Hell Of A Night In Dixie

Crook Brothers & The Tennessee Travelers: Durang's Hornpipe

Roy Acuff: I'll Fly Away

8:00: Martha White

Grandpa Jones (host): Stop That Ticklin' Me

Wilma Lee & Carolee Cooper: A Daisy A Day

Ronnie Milsap: Back On My Mind Again/Why Don't You Spend The Night

The 4 Guys: Let There Be Peace

Grandpa & Ramona Jones: Fallen Leaves

8:30: Acme

Hank Snow (host): I Don't Hurt Anymore

Osborne Brothers: Take Me Home, Country Roads

Marion Worth: Someone Is Looking For Someone Like You

Roy Drusky: Welcome Home

Hank Snow & Kelly Foxton: Hasn't It Been Good Together
Fruit Jar Drinkers

2nd show

9:30: Kellogg's
Porter Wagoner (host): Ole Slewfoot

Jean Shepard: Seven Lonely Days

Ronnie Milsap: I'm A Standby Your Woman Man/What Goes On When The Sun Goes Down/Daydreams About Night Things

Jim & Jesse with Charlie Louvin: Showboat Gambler

Bill Carlisle: Too Old To Cut The Mustard

Ray Pillow: Super Lady

Porter Wagoner: Cold Hard Facts Of Live/Caroll County Accident/Green, Green Grass Of Home

10:00: Little Debbie

Jack Greene (host): Yours For The Taking

Jeannie Seely: Since I Met 'Ca Boy

Vic Willis: Last Cheater's Waltz

Jack Greene & Jeannie Seely: Fox On The Run

10:15: Union 76

Roy Acuff (host): Once More

Minnie Pearl: Jealous Hearted Me

Connie Smith: He Was There All The Time

Roy Acuff: Lord, Don't Give Up On Me

10:30: Trailblazer

Grandpa (host) Ramona & Alisa Jones: Who Will Sing For Me

Skeeter Davis: The Old Rugged Cross/The King Is Coming

Billy Grammer: When They Ring The Golden Bells/Kentucky

Jan Howard: I Will Survive

10:45: Beechnut

George Hamilton IV (host): Forever Young
Loretta Lynn & Sissy Spacek: You Ain't Woman Enough 
Crook Brothers & The Tennessee Travelers: Rachel

George Hamilton IV: Close Your Eyes, I'll Be There In The Morning

11:00: Coca Cola

Hank Snow (host): I'm Moving On

Stu Phillips: There's More To Love

Osborne Brothers: Country Boys & Georgia Mules Are Fading Fast Away

Fruit Jar Drinkers: Katy Hill

The 4 Guys: Fire

Hank Snow & Kelly Foxton: My First Night Alone

11:30: Budweiser

Marty Robbins (host): Tonight Carmen

Wilma Lee & Carolee Cooper: I Couldn't Believe It Was True

Jimmy Dickens: Out Behind The Barn

Roy Drusky: Just A Closer Walk With Thee

Marty Robbins: Don't Worry About Me/Cool Water/Muddy Water/Among My Souvenirs

Marty Robbins & Roy Acuff: The Great Speckled Bird
Marty Robbins: Love Me/El Paso City/You Gave Me A Mountain/Touch Me With Magic/She's Made Of Faith/A White Sport Coat/Jenny/El Paso

Wow!!! Marty Robbins was on for 48 minutes with 13 songs. He went so long that PBS cut him off. Roy Acuff was a surprise walk-on during Marty's segment as Marty was kidding about Roy being mad at him for running over so late. Roy took it with good humor. 

Ernest Tubb was scheduled to host the 7:00 and 10:45 segments but cancelled. Also cancelling was Don Gibson and Archie Campbell. As shown on the schedule, a number of artists only appeared on one of the two shows as they wanted to get on as many acts as they could. And it goes without saying that those PBS shows were wonderful. 

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. 

Random Thoughts From A 70 Year Old

As I was driving back from Nashville and a weekend at the Grand Ole Opry, various thoughts went through my mind: 

I am convinced that Jelly Roll will be the next new Opry member. I assume the invite will take place during the March 19 NBC show. No, I do not have any inside knowledge, but it is just my thought. 

I also wouldn't be surprised if there was more than one invite that night. The War And Treaty, Amy Grant and Eric Church are the non-members currently listed on the schedule. Just wondering. 

Speaking of Jelly Roll, I have been reading many of the comments that are making the rounds, not only on the blog, but also on the Opry's social media pages. I get it. Jelly Roll is not for everybody, and I respect those opinions. However, he does have a story to tell, and he resonates with young people, who are the future Opry ticket buyers. Personally, I am fine with his music, but I do wish when he is on the Opry he would cut down on the personal testimony that he gives. Last Wednesday, when he was on with Brandon Lake, I was almost expecting an altar call. 

Shouldn't a Grand Ole Opry show have a majority of the acts on the schedule that are Opry members? Wednesday night, there was only one on the schedule and we have on occasion, seen more non-members than members. With 76 members, and I realize not all are active members, I would think at least four of the eight should be members. 

As with Jelly Roll, I have been reading the comments about Ringo Starr. Geez. Ringo was fantastic on Friday night. The Opry House was sold out and many fans were wearing Ringo or Beatle shirts. And wasn't it great to hear the other acts singing their versions of Beatle songs? Rhonda doing a bluegrass version of "Help" was tops. The entire group doing "With A Little Help from My Friends" was the perfect way to end the night. 

Ringo has a history with country music and rockabilly. He was in Nashville for most of the week and was at numerous country related events. Many do not realize that. 

Would you agree that Ringo might be the biggest icon to have ever performed on the Opry? President Richard Nixon might be a close second. And no, I am not including Opry members on this particular list.

Some of the comments on Facebook have been taking the Opry to task for scheduling Ringo. You would have thought that the Opry had sold their soul. Here are a few names for you: Steve Wonder, The Pointer Sisters, Jerry Lee Lewis, James Brown, Florence Henderson, Perry Como, Michael Buble, Barry Gibb, Peter Frampton, The Beach Boys. Do I need to list more? They have all been on the Opry and the Opry survived just fine. 

Interesting that the same people on Ringo's case had really nothing to say about Bill Medley. Both Ringo and Bill are in the Rock Hall of Fame and much like the Beatles, Bill had one of the biggest hits in the history of music. Both Ringo and Bill have recently recorded country albums. And by the way, I was a little nervous when Bill did "The Dance" as I thought that might have not been the best song for him, but he quickly redeemed himself with "Time of Our Lives." 

And one more thought on Ringo. He gets it. He understands what the Opry is all about and the history of the Opry. Probably more so than some of the other acts that have guested on the show. 

The Grand Ole Opry House looks as good as ever. The updated sound system that has been installed at the Opry House is outstanding. The music is so much clearer, and the quality is excellent. Same with the lighting. 

Now if they would only fix the traffic congestion leaving the Opry House. It cost $25 to park in the Opry's pay lot, but I will tell you the difference in getting out of the area makes up for it. Easy and a much easier out. 

I wish the Opry Museum would be reopened. 

I am very happy that they made Mandy Barnett an Opry member. She can sing any classic song and make it her own. In fact, most of the new members have added to the Opry. T. Graham Brown, Don Schlitz, Rhonda Vincent. Think where the Opry would be without a few of them. 

I wonder what has happened to Carly Pearce. Before she became a member she was on a lot. Since then, not so much. She is missed. 

I miss Mike Snider. 

And speaking of members, I still wish a few of them would remember where the Opry House is located. While some seem to show up only on special occasions, there are shows literally four or five nights a week. You would think a few of them could find a way to make time. Some of these same artists are the ones who say that Opry membership is the most important achievement in their professional life. I don't expect them there every show, but couldn't we get them more than two or three times a year? 

The Opry audience has changed. I have noticed it for years. The vast majority of those attending view the Opry as a bucket list item. A show to go see when in Nashville and they are willing to pay whatever to see it. I think most do not know who some of the artists are on stage. I am not the Opry's target audience, they are. And I realize that. For the Opry to continue as it is, it has had to change. What they did during Covid worked, so expect that to continue. 

Take a look at the lineup from Saturday night: 
Square Dancers to keep the tradition alive. 
John Conlee with classic country from the 70s and 80s
Frank Ray with a mix of Tex-Mex music (and a nod to Freddy Fender)
Jeannie Seely with classic country from the 60s and 70s. 
Del McCoury with bluegrass. 
Kat Luna with new music, and a Cuban version of country.
Breland with Hip/Hop country
Bill Medley with classic adult contemporary/country music
Sara Evans with 2000s hits

No, it is not the Opry many of us grew up with, but I will tell you, it was a pretty good show. A lot of variety and by the way, John and Jeannie sounded very, very good. 

I am thankful that Dan Rogers is in charge of the Opry. It can't be easy booking 230+ shows a year. 

There were complaints about the Opry changing from being a classic country music show anymore and going away from their roots. I am sure that people were saying the same thing when Pee Wee King and Roy Acuff joined. Same when Red Foley and Hank Williams came along. How about those from the 50s. Bob Luman? Same. Then the group that joined in the 90s. It goes on and on. Change is not easy.

I wish Kathy Mattea was an Opry member. 

Do I wish there was more traditional country music on the Opry? Yes, I do. But what is the definition of country music today? It has changed and the Opry had to change with it. 

I absolutely understand those who do not attend the Opry any longer. Ticket prices are high. The amount of music is low. The classic acts that we grew up with are long gone and those that are left are not on the Opry as often. Some listen on the radio and do not like what they hear. Yet these same fans, and I know some of them, still support country music. Acts such as Gene Watson, The Malpass Brothers, Moe Bandy, T. Graham Brown, etc. Thankfully, these acts are still touring and drawing good crowds at reasonable prices. 

I think the Opry isn't selling a show. It is selling an experience. 

And despite all that rambling, I still had a great time over the weekend. The shows were excellent, the crowds were good. People had a good time spending a Friday or Saturday night at the Opry House. 

I am excited for what the rest of the year brings, and I am particularly excited about the November 28 show, the actual date of the 100th anniversary of that first show. 

I know, that is a lot of rambling. But it was an eight-hour car ride home. 

Grand Ole Opry 2/21 & 2/22--Lineup Finalized

It is going to be a very special weekend at the Grand Ole Opry as two of music's iconic stars are going to be making their Opry debuts. Ringo Starr will be making his debut on Friday night and Bill Medley is set to debut on Saturday night. 

I think everyone knows who Ringo Starr is and his relationship to country music and rockabilly, so I will just go with one of the press releases: 

Ringo Starr is about to cross a huge item off of his bucket list. The founding member of the Beatles will make his Grand Ole Opry debut on February 21. Starr was invited to perform at the Opry by Emmylou Harris, while at the Ryman Auditorium. Starr was performing the first of two headlining shows in support of his new country album, Look Up.

Harris was a surprise for Starr, who replied to her invitation with his own bit of comedy. "When is that, July?" he asked, with Harris telling him his debut was to happen next month. "I'd love to," he said. "It's an honor and a pleasure. Thank you."

Opry Executive Producer Dan Rogers praises Starr for his contribution in music. Starr will perform as part of the Grand Ole Opry's 100th anniversary celebration.

"What an honor that after all the extraordinary music he has made and all the incredible history he's been a part of, Ringo Starr will be making his Opry debut during this, the Opry's milestone 100th year," Rogers said. "It's going to be a night like no other."

Few could have ever predicted Starr's segue from being part of arguably the biggest band of all time to making country music. But to Starr, it's an easy evolution, especially after joining forces with T Bone Burnett. Starr first asked Burnett to produce what he thought was going to be another EP. But when Burnett brought him nine songs that he had written or co-written, the plans for Look Up fell into place.

"I had been making EPs at the time and so I thought we would do a country EP - but when he brought me nine songs, I knew we had to make an album!  And I am so glad we did," Starr says. "I want to thank and send peace and love to T Bone and all the great musicians who helped make this record. It was a joy making it and I hope it is a joy to listen to."

While I have seen Ringo in concert before with his All-Star Band, I am not about to miss his debut on the Grand Ole Opry. Yes, I will be at the Opry this weekend. 

Joining Ringo on the Friday Night Opry is Grand Ole Opry members Lauren Alaina, Mandy Barnett, Riders In The Sky, Don Schlitz and Rhonda Vincent. Along with Ringo, Mickey Guyton and Molly Tuttle are the non-members on the schedule. 

While Ringo is debuting on Friday night, Bill Medley will be debuting on Saturday night. Along with Bill, Saturday night's lineup includes Opry members Del McCoury Band, John Conlee, Jeannie Seely and Sara Evans. Non members on the schedule, in addition to Bill Medley, include Frank Ray, Breland, and making her solo Opry debut, Kat Luna, who was formally a part of the duet Kat & Alex. 

Friday February 21
7:00: Riders In The Sky, Lauren Alaina, Rhonda Vincent, Don Schlitz
Intermission
8:20: Mandy Barnett, Molly Tuttle, Mickey Guyton, Ringo Starr

Saturday February 22
7:00 Opry Square Dancers, John Conlee, Frank Ray, Jeannie Seely, Del McCoury Band
Intermission
8:20: Kat Luna, Breland, Bill Medley, Sara Evans

Bill Medley has one of the most iconic voices this world will ever know. As one-half of GRAMMY® Award-winning, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees The Righteous Brothers – a beloved and legendary duo who released songs that are part of the fabric of worldwide pop culture – Medley influenced generation upon generation of vocalists through songs such as: “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’,” “Unchained Melody,” and “(I’ve Had) The Time Of My Life.”

 As a lover of Country music, and with a forthcoming album – Straight From The Heart - of his versions of Country mega-hits, Bill recently told his grandson, “This is who your grandpa really is.”

 Kenny Rogers called Bill in 1978 and invited him to Nashville, beginning a lifetime of relationships and experiences with the Country music community, including earning an ACM Nomination for Top New Male Vocalist of the Year in 1985, after 25 years in the music business. Bill went on to open for Loretta Lynn for two months, toured with Alabama, and spent time with Johnny Cash, Glen Campbell, Kris Kristofferson, among many others.

Songs on Bill Medley’s historic album with a historic voice include: “The Dance,” originally recorded by Garth Brooks; “He Stopped Loving Her Today,” originally recorded by George Jones; and “I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry (feat. Shawn Colvin),” originally recorded by Hank Williams.

 The forthcoming 14-song collection was produced by Fred Mollin (Miley Cyrus, Billy Joel) and features guest artists Michael McDonald, Shawn Colvin, Keb’ Mo’, and Vince Gill, who went on to win that 1985 ACM Top New Male Vocalist of the Year for which Bill was nominated. Mollin shares, “In the heart of Music Row in Nashville, where so many of these songs were originally recorded, the truly iconic voice of Bill Medley sat around with the current class of legendary studio musicians and one song rolled into the next. Live on the floor. The way it was meant to be.”

 A self-described Pop/Blues artist, Bill shares, “At its core, a pure Country ballad is the blues.”

 Medley’s upcoming album, Straight From The Heart is set for release this week. 

Kat Luna is embarking on a new chapter as a solo artist. A first generation Cuban American, Luna was born and raised in Miami and grew up singing in church. She decided to pursue music professionally after appearing on “La Voz” at the age of 19. Luna later competed as a solo artist on American Idol, prompting a move to Nashville upon completion of the show. Luna now looks ahead to her next chapter as she continues to record new music with producer Nathan Chapman. With her Cuban roots, powerful vocals, and love of country music storytelling, Luna is forging her own path built on her passion for music and commitment to authenticity. 

This week, we highlight 49+ year Grand Ole Opry member Bill Carlisle, who made his final Saturday night Grand Ole Opry appearance on Saturday February 22, 2003.

From Variety (at the time of Bill's death): 

Country Music Hall of Fame member Jumpin’ Bill Carlisle, whose music and comedy made him a Grand Ole Opry staple for the past half-century, died March 17 at his home in Goodlettsville, Tenn., after suffering a stroke the previous week. He was 94.

A Grand Ole Opry member since 1953, Carlisle was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2002. He is best known for novelty hits like “No Help Wanted,” and for penning the now-classic hymn “Gone Home,” popularized by Flatt & Scruggs and recently recorded by Ricky Skaggs.

William Carlisle was born into poverty in Wakefield, Ky., near Louisville. Following the lead of older brother Cliff, he learned to play guitar and began performing around the region during the 1920s. In 1929, the family launched the “Carlisle Family Saturday Night Barn Dance” on a Louisville radio station.

Bill developed an alter-ego for his shows: a comedic rube in overalls named Hot Shot Elmer, noted for gags that included a pet skunk, a shock box and ducks in diapers.

In the mid-’30s, Cliff and Bill formed the Carlisle Brothers, one of the most popular country duos of the time. They had live programs on radio stations in nine Southeastern cities, gaining their largest following during a stint on “The Midday Merry-Go-Round” on Knoxville’s WNOX. From 1932 to 1947, they recorded more than 100 sides for six different labels, peaking with 1946 single “Rainbow at Midnight,” which hit No. 5 on the Billboard country singles chart. In 1948, they charted again with “Tramp on the Street.”

In addition to their recordings, the brothers’ live shows drew big crowds, who particularly came to see Bill as Hot Shot Elmer. The barefoot Hot Shot was notorious for hurdling chairs in the audience and leaping from the stage, earning Carlisle his “Jumpin’ Bill” nickname.

He came into his own as a solo recording artist with a series of novelty hits in the early 1950s, most of which he wrote. These include “No Help Wanted”; “Knothole”; “Shake-a-Leg”; and “Too Old to Cut the Mustard,” which spurred interest from the Grand Ole Opry. But when the Opry didn’t take him on right away, he found himself scrambling for work — which inspired him to write “No Help Wanted.” The song reached No. 1 in January 1953, and 10 months later, the Opry had added Carlisle to its roster.

Carlisle gave Chet Atkins one of his first jobs in music, employing the now-legendary guitar picker as a fiddler in the early 1940s. Carlisle was noted for his own skill as an acoustic guitar player; he was an early favorite of rock ‘n’ roll guitar hero Duane Eddy, and some credit him with influencing rockabilly.

Six major surgeries in the 1990s limited his jumping but he continued to mix music and comedy throughout his tenure at the Opry. He performed with a walker after hip replacement and kept using it even after he no longer needed it, only to surprise the audience by flinging it over his shoulder at the end of his set and walking away. He made his last Opry appearance March 7.

He was married to the former Leona King for 62 years, and both of their children — Sheila Carlisle, who died in 1991, and Bill Carlisle Jr.– performed in their dad’s ensemble.

Here is the running order of the first show, and Bill Carlisle's final Saturday night appearance on the Grand Ole Opry: 

Saturday February 22, 2003

1st show
6:30: Tennessee Pride
Jimmy Dickens (host): Sleepin' At The Foot Of The Bed
Hal Ketchum: Dreams Of Martina
Jimmy C Newman: Big Mamou
John Conlee: She's Mine
Jimmy Dickens: Mountain Dew

7:00: Gutter Guard/Standard Candy
John Michael Montgomery: Country Thing/I Can Love You Like That
Jim Ed Brown: Pop A Top (host)
Stevens Sisters: Old Joe Clark/Those Words We Said
Blake Shelton: Georgia In A Jug/The Baby/Ole Red
Jim Ed Brown: Fools
Nanci Giffith: Love At the Five & Dime/A Simple Life/Listen To The Radio
Jim Ed Brown: Take This Job And Shove It/Pop A Top

8:00: Martha White
Porter Wagoner (host): The Burned The Little Roadside Tavern Down
Bill Carlisle: Gone Home
Jeannie Seely & Danny Davis: Today I Started Loving You Again
The Whites: Pins & Needles/He Took Your Place
Opry Square Dance Band: Cherokee Shuffle
Porter Wagoner & Penny DeHaven: Forty Miles To Poplar Bluff

8:30: Tootsie's
Mike Snider (host): Acorn Hill/ (?)
Billy Walker: I Saw Elvis At Walmart
Holly Dunn: You Really Had Me Going
Andy Griggs: Ain't No Practice Life/I Wanna Be Your Man
Mike Snider: Sally Goodin

As mentioned, that was the final Saturday night for Bill Carlisle. His final Opry appearance took place on Friday March 7. Here is the posted lineup from his final night: 

7:30: Porter Wagoner (host): Jeannie Seely, Mike Snider, Jeff Bates
8:00: Jean Shepard (host): Bill Carlisle, Jack Greene, Radney Foster
8:30: Jimmy Dickens (host): Jan Howard, Jim Ed Brown, Suzy Bogguss
9:00: Bill Anderson (host): Ernie Ashworth, Connie Smith, Andy Griggs
9:30: George Hamilton IV (host): Stevens Sisters, Billy Walker, Gene Watson

Bill Carlisle was an Opry member for 49+ years. He would have celebrated his 50th anniversary later in 2003. 

The following Saturday night, the Grand Ole Opry had a tribute to Bill Carlisle, that took place during the first show's 8:00 segment hosted by Porter Wagoner. Bill Carlisle was a joy to watch and hear on the Opry, another of the legendary members who have been largely forgotten. 

There you have it for this weekend. It is going to be an exciting weekend for sure at the Grand Ole Opry House and I am very fortunate to say that I will be there both nights. For those listening on WSM, I hope you enjoy what the Opry has offering. 

As always, thanks for reading and commenting. 

Tuesday Night Opry 2/18/ Wednesday Night Opry 2/19

The Tuesday Night Opry is back again this week, along with a newly scheduled Wednesday Night Opry. Why two midweek shows? Because one of the biggest names in country music, and in my opinion a future Grand Ole Opry member, Jelly Roll is scheduled to appear on both nights. 

In addition to Jelly Roll on Tuesday night, Grand Ole Opry members Mandy Barnett, Ashley McBryde and Pam Tillis are also on the schedule, along with Riley Green, and making his Opry debut, Redferrin. 

Joining Jelly Roll on Wednesday night is Opry member T. Graham Brown, along with Ernest, Drew Baldridge, Mike James, and making his Opry debut, and singing his duet song with Jelly Roll, Brandon Lake. 

From the press release: 

Dove and GRAMMY-award-winning artist Brandon Lake is officially set to make his Grand Ole Opry debut on February 19, 2025. 

This debut marks another milestone in Lake’s remarkable career as a songwriter, worship leader, and performer. Lake kicked off 2025 as part of the musical collective Sons of Sunday. He also released “Hard Fought Hallelujah" and debuted a second rendition of the song with country artist Jelly Roll. The two will perform the song together live at the Opry. 

Tuesday February 18
7:00: Pam Tillis, Redferrin, Jelly Roll
Intermission
8:20: Mandy Barnett, Riley Green, Ashley McBryde

(As of Monday morning, the Wednesday Night Opry lineup has not been finalized) 

Redferrin, who is making his Opry debut on Tuesday night, is a singer/songwriter from Tennessee, and records for Warner Music. In February 2024, he released his debut EP, Old No. 7, which featured seven songs, all co-written and co-produced by Redferrin. The EP produced over 240 million on-demand streams. His follow-up EP is due to be released as part of his Opry debut. 

In 2024, Redferrin sold out nearly 30 of his 44 headlining shows, played 22 festivals including the UK’s Country-2-Country, Barefoot Country Music Festival, CMA Music Fest, Tailgates and Tallboys, Cavendish Beach Music Fest, Boots in the Park, and Boots and Hearts Festival to name a few. He shared the stage with legends like Niko Moon, Billy Currington, and Russell Dickerson, and in August 2024, he took his talent overseas with a UK tour, hitting cities like Glasgow, Manchester, Bristol, and London. 

Named a 2024 Amazon Breakthrough Artist to Watch and part of the RIAA Class of 2024, Redferrin has already surpassed 375 million global streams, cementing his status as one of country music’s fastest-rising stars. In addition to his own songs, Redferrin’s songwriting credits can be found among other hit-making artists such as Florida Georgia Line’s “Lil Bit” featuring Nelly, “New Truck,” and Dean Brody & The Reklaws’ massive hit “Can’t Help Myself.” 

Continuing with a look at Grand Ole Opry members from the past, it was on February 18, 1939, that the Andrews Brothers became regulars on the Grand Ole Opry. 

James and Floyd Andrews were brought to the Opry by George D. Hay and Harry Stone, on the advice of promoter J. L. Frank, to replace the popular Delmore Brothers, who had left the Opry. The brothers were in their mid-20s. and came to Nashville from Alabama. They were taught music by their mother, who played the organ and had a solid grounding in church music. "Both boys knew hundreds of old-time songs, and expect to write songs while doing radio work," stated a press release of the time. Their first and only recording session was for ARC in Memphis in July 1939, and the songs from that session seem to be Delmore-styled: "Filling Station Blues," "Far Away from My Old Virginia Home," "Mother's Gone from the Cabin," "West Virginia Railroad Blues," "Mother Watch O'er and Guide Me," and others. With them on the recording session was the fiddle player Slim Smith, who had also recently joined the show. 

Here is the Grand Ole Opry schedule from Saturday February 18, 1939: 

8:00: Golden West Cowboys
8:15: Uncle Dave Macon
8:30: Roy Acuff
8:45: Sam and Kirk McGee
9:00: Jack and Missouri Mountaineers
9:15: DeFord Bailey
9:30: Asher and Little Jimmie
9:45: Golden West Cowboys
10:00: Possum Hunters
10:15: Tennessee Song Birds
10:30: Roy Acuff and His Boys
10:45: Andrews Brothers
11:00: Golden West Cowboys
11:15: Sam and Kirk McGee
11:30: Fruit Jar Drinkers
11:45: Gully Jumpers 

The Andrews Brothers did not stay long on the Opry as it appears by the end of 1940, they had moved on, which was common at the time. There seems to be very little information as to what happened to the brothers. 

I hope everyone enjoys these two mid-week shows. 

Grand Ole Opry 2/14 & 2/15

Friday is Valentine's Day and in honor of the day, the Grand Ole Opry will have a special show. From the press release: 

The Grand Ole Opry is celebrating Valentine’s Day this year with a special show honoring country music’s most iconic pairings with “It Takes Two: Opry 100 Celebrates Country Duos,” featuring The War And Treaty. 

The War And Treaty curated the special show, which takes place Feb. 14, the same day as the release of their new album, Plus One. Among the country duos set to perform on the show, which will honor legendary country pairings such as Johnny and June, George and Tammy, Dolly and Porter, Loretta and Conway and more, are John Carter and Ana Cristina Cash, Jon Randall and Jessi Alexander, LoCash, Neon Union, Ricky Skaggs and Sharon White, plus the trio The Band Perry, and more.

The Opry offered a similar show last year which included a lot of add-ons, and it went over very well. So it's back. 

Now turning to Saturday night, Grand Ole Opry members Mark Wills, Riders In The Sky, John Conlee and the legendary Jeannie Seely are all on the schedule. 

Tigirlily Gold is back for another appearance, along with Dalton Dover, Angie K and making their Opry debut, TopHouse. 

Friday February 14
7:00: The War and Treaty, John Carter & Ana Christina Cash, Ricky Skaggs & Sharon White, The Band Perry
Intermission
8:20: Neon Union, Jon Randall & Jessi Alexander, LOCASH

Saturday February 15
7:00: Opry Square Dancers, Mark Wills, Angie K, Dalton Dover, John Conlee
Intermission
8:20: Jeannie Seely, TopHouse, Opry Square Dancers, Tigirlily Gold, Riders In The Sky

TopHouse was created in 2015 by two Montana music majors, guitarist/songwriter Jesse Davis and violinist William Cook before adding Joseph Larson (lead singer and guitar/banjo player,) and Andy LaFave (piano) in 2017 and 2022 respectively. After being vaulted to local fame in their birthplace of Missoula, with the Missoulian naming TopHouse one of the top 5 best new bands (two years in a row we might add), the band moved to Nashville, TN in October of 2019. TopHouse quickly set to work attaining a local residency as well as getting music played on Nashville’s premier new-music radio station Lightning 100. With some viral social media moments, a healthy dose of touring, consistent time in the studio, and a diet of Little Caesars and Red Bull, TopHouse has continued to grow to the point of selling out venues in cities they've never even heard of. When they aren’t touring the U.S. they can be found around Nashville TN, trying not to die in traffic and/or throwing the occasional round of disc golf. The band’s releases include Middle of Somewhere, Hopes & Fears, Snapshot, The Irish EP, and Campfire Stories. The band is currently releasing new music, with their latest singles "Better is the End" and "Be Nobody" having their biggest first weeks to date (knock on wood).

The Grand Ole Opry has been around for 100 years. Many forget the early days of the Opry and many of the artists that appeared on those early shows have been largely forgotten. In February 1947, the Grand Ole Opry was only in its 22nd year of existence. Going back 78 years, here is the running order from February 15, 1947: 

8:00: Purina
Eddy Arnold: Just Because 
Oklahoma Wranglers: Farther And Farther Apart
Rod Brasfield: Jokes
Uncle Dave Macon and Dorris: Bill Bailey
Eddy Arnold: Mother The Queen Of My Heart
Jamup and Honey: Jokes
Zeke Clements: Am I Too Late
Lonzo and Oscar: Green Back Dollar
Crook Brothers: Sally Goodin
Eddy Arnold: What Is Life Without Love

8:30: Warren Paint & Color Co. 
Paul Howard: I Can't Go On This Way
Lew Childre: Alabamy Bound
Bill Monroe: Blue Moon Of Kentucky
Milton Estes: Good Old Mountain Dew
Clyde Moody: Shenandoah Waltz
Lew and String Beans: The Martins And The Coys
Jimmy Selph: Writing You Darling Through Tears
Possum Hunters: Stoney Point
Robert Lunn: Robert Lunn Blues
Jimmy Walker: No One Will Ever Know
Bill Monroe: True Life Blues

9:00: Royal Crown
Golden West Cowboys: Steel Guitar Rag
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Leather Britches
Cowboy Copas: Divorce Me C.O.D.
Texas Ruby: Dear Old Southern Home
Johnny and Jack: This World Can't Stand Long
Bradley Kincaid: Old Smokey
Annie Lou and Danny: Ragtime Cowboy Joe
Cowboy Copas: Tragic Romance
York Brothers: Rainbow At Midnight
Shorty Boyd: Flower Of Texas

9:30: Prince Albert
Red Foley: Tennessee Central No. 9
Oak Ridge Quartet: I'm In His Care
Duke of Paducah: Jokes
Curly Fox: Whoa Mule Whoa
Red Foley: Old Shep
Grandpa Jones: Gathering Flowers From The Hillside
Minnie Pearl: Jokes
Old Timers Quartet: Oh, You Beautiful Doll
Red Foley: One Step More
Breakdown: Skip To My Lou

10:00: Wall-Rite
Chubby: Fire On The Mountain
Lester and Bill: No One Will Take You From Me
Quartet: Shining Path
Marie and Clyde: Railroad Boomer
Bill Monroe: Little Joe

10:15: Weatherhouse
Paul Howard: With Tears In My Eyes
Uncle Dave Macon and Dorris: In The Sweet Bye And Bye
Clyde Moody: Leaf Of Love
Possum Hunters: Miss Sally
Zeke Clements: I'll Face The World With A Smile

10:30: Cherokee Mills
Texas Ruby: Foggy River
Bradley Kincaid: Swapping Song
Lazy Jim Day: To Be Selected
York Brothers: A Love That Faded Too Soon
Curly Fox: Black Mountain Rag

10:45: Southern Agriculture
Milton Estes: There's A Big Rock In The Road
Lew and Stringbean: John Henry
Johnny and Jack: Too Be Selected
Crook Brothers: Will The Circle Be Unbroken
Milton Estes: Say You'll Be Mine

11:00: Eddy Arnold Songbook
Eddy Arnold: Chained To A Memory
Lily Belle: A Face I See At Evening
Lonzo and Oscar: Jole Blonde
Eddy Arnold: So Sure There's No Mistake

11:15: Ernest Tubb Songbook
Ernest Tubb: Two Wrongs Don't Make A Right
Dot and Smokey: Columbus Stockade Blues
Jimmy and Leon: You Gotta Pay The Fiddler
Ernest Tubb: Fort Worth Jail

11:30: Saf-Kill
Golden West Cowboys: Kentucky Waltz
Oklahoma Wranglers: El Rancho Grande
Gully Jumpers: Breakdown In D
Kirk McGee: Golden River
Golden West Cowboys: Nashville Blues

11:45: Michigan Bulb
Wally Fowler: Plowing In The New Ground
Jimmy Walker: Tear Stains On My Letter
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Rabbit Where Is My Mammy
Andrews Brothers: Mother's Only Sleeping
Wally Fowler: I Got Faith
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Dixie-Home Sweet Home

As mentioned, more than a few Opry members that have been forgotten were on the show that night. 

More recently, on February 15, 2013, future Grand Ole Opry member Chris Janson made his Opry debut. 

Here is the posted lineup from that Friday night: 

7:30: John Conlee (host): Chris Janson, Jean Shepard, Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press
8:00: Jeannie Seely (host): George Hamilton IV, Josh Turner
8:15: Craig Morgan (host): Jim Ed Brown, Riders In The Sky
8:45: Ricky Skaggs (host): The Whites, The Black Lillies

On the original schedule posted on the Opry website, there was a Sunday Night Opry listed. That show has been cancelled. 

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

Tuesday Night Opry 2/11

The Tuesday Night Opry returns this week with a solid lineup of Opry members and guests. 

Ashley McBryde heads up the list, joined by comedian Henry Cho, Chris Janson, Riders In The Sky and Scotty McCreery. Rounding out the schedule are Gabby Barrett and making their Opry debut, JOHNNYSWIM.

Tuesday February 11
7:00: Riders In The Sky, Gabby Barrett, Johnnyswim, Scotty McCreery
Intermission
8:20: Ashley McBryde, Henry Cho, Chris Janson

JOHNNYSWIM, composed of the magnetic duo Abner Ramirez and Amanda Sudano Ramirez, effortlessly enthralls audiences with their heartfelt melodies, intertwining personal experiences and imaginative tales. Their music is a vibrant tapestry woven with memories, emotions, and dreams, blending singer-songwriter tradition with alternative flair, rock vigor, and pop ambition. Through extensive touring, they've cultivated a devoted fanbase worldwide, connecting deeply with listeners.

 Critics from NPR, The New York Times, Huffington Post, Nylon, and Rolling Stone have hailed JOHNNYSWIM's blend of Folk, Pop, and Blues as "captivating and unforgettable." Their electrifying performances on shows like The Today Show and The Tonight Show with Jay Leno have enchanted audiences, reinforcing their dynamic presence in the music realm.

 In their upcoming album When The War Is Over, the band captures a profound journey through personal upheaval and resilience. Inspired by a season marked by intense challenges, Abner and Amanda vulnerably explore themes of physical and mental health, and self-realization through 11 deeply personal tracks. It symbolizes their journey toward healing, serving as a declaration of moving forward. Arriving amidst uncertain times, When The War Is Over is more than a collection of songs—it stands defiantly as a testimony of resilience, vulnerability, and the unbreakable bond between two people navigating life’s storms together.

As Opry 100 continues and focusing on former Grand Ole Opry members, The 4 Guys made their Opry debut on February 11, 1967:  

The 4 Guys became Opry members on April 22, 1967, just a couple of months after their Opry debut. The original members of the group that joined consisted of Berl Lyons, Brent Burkett, Sam Wellington and Rich Garratt. Sam is the only member of that original lineup still alive, and he has written some wonderful books over the past several years. 

Sam Wellington was the final original member of the group, and he retired in June 1999, the same week in which Pete Fisher became the Opry's general manager. On April 5, 2000, Pete Fisher fired The 4 Guys as members of the Opry. The decision was based on the fact that with Sam's retirement, there were no original members of the group left. 

From the Nashville Tennessean: 

Long ago, the Four Guys were the harmonizing toast of Music City. They had a night club. And they had many fans, thanks to their membership in the Grand Ole Opry. Well, don't look for them to be regular Opry performers anymore. They are no longer on the membership roster. 

What happened? Opry general manager Pete Fisher explained yesterday that this ends an affiliation that began in 1967, when the Four Guys "consisted of Brent Burkett, Richard Garrett, Sam Wellington and Berl Lyons were invited to join the Grand Ole Opry membership roster. 

First, Lyons and Garrett left the group. The other two of the Opry's original Four Guys, Wellington and Burkett, left in 1999. Because of the complete change in the harmony group since the induction 33 years ago "we have made the decision to remove the Four Guys from our current Opry membership roster," Fisher said. 

"As it is difficult for the Opry to part ways with the current members of the group, Laddie Cain, Glen Bates, John Frost and Gary Robinson, we wish the best for them and are grateful for their contributions to the Opry." 

The 4 Guys never had that career "hit" record, but they were very popular, and very busy. In addition to their dinner theater in Nashville, they were a popular act on cruise ships and also toured as the opening act for a number of country music stars. At the Opry, in addition to their solo spots, they also served as background vocalists for many of the Opry's performers. 

On June 6, 2008, The 4 Guys made a final appearance on the Grand Ole Opry as Sam wellington came out of retirement. Bill Anderson introduced the group on the Opry that night and they received a very nice ovation. 

Here is the running order from 58 years ago, Saturday February 11, 1967, the night The 4 Guys made their Opry debut: 

7:30: Luzianne
Jim Ed (host) & Maxine Brown: I Heard The Bluebird Sing
Bob Luman: Hardly Anymore
Dottie West: What's Come Over My Baby
Justin Tubb: But Wait; There's More
Pete Drake: I'm Just A Guitar (Everybody Picks On Me)
Jim Ed Brown: You Can Have Her
Bob Luman: Come On & Sing
Jim Ed & Maxine Brown: Looking Back To See

8:00: Martha White
Wilburn Brothers (host): Hurt Her Once For Me
Hank Locklin: Send Me The Pillow You Dream On
Ray Pillow: I Like That Sorta Thing
Del Wood: Down Yonder
Wilburn Brothers: Just To Be Where You Are
Crook Brothers: Old Hen Cackle
Billy "Crash "Craddock: There Oughta Be A Law
Hank Locklin: Hasta Luego
Wilburn Brothers: All We Have For You Mom

8:30: Stephens
Billy Walker (host): Things
Bill Carlisle: What Kind Of Deal Is This
Bobby Bare: Shame On Me
Archie Campbell: The Cockfight
Billy Walker: Anything Your Heart Desires
Curly Fox: The Old Gray Mule
Bill Carlisle: The Great Shoman
Billy Walker: Cross The Brazos At Waco

9:00: Pet Milk
Charlie Louvin (host): I Don't Love You Anymore
Ernie Ashworth: At Ease Heart
Margie Bowes: There Goes My Everything
Bluegrass Country Kin: Black Mountain Rag
Charlie Louvin: I Don't Want It
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Instrumental
Harold Weakley: Almost Persuaded
Ernie Ashworth: Pass Me Not
Charlie Louvin: Off & On

9:30: Kellogg's
Hank Snow (host): Golden Rocket
Cousin Jody: I Miss Him So
Jimmy Dickens: A Country Music Lover
Carter Family: Bye; Bye
Hank Snow: A Legend In My Time
The 4 Guys: Shenandoah
Carter Family: Once Around The Briar Patch
Hank Snow: Hula Love

10:00: Schick
Jim Ed (host) & Maxine Brown: Where Does The Good Times Go
Dottie West: It's My Way To Survive
Jim Ed Brown: You Can Have Her
Dottie West: All The World Is Lonely Now

10:15: Pure
Bob Luman (host): Let's Think About Living
Wilburn Brothers: I'm Gonna Tie One On Tonight
Hank Locklin: Hasta Luego
Bob Luman: Hardly Anymore

10:30: Buckley's
Bobby Bare (host): I Saw The Light
Del Wood: Cajun Stripper
Ray Pillow: Two Minus One Leaves Blue
Bobby Bare: Streets Of Baltimore

10:45: Kent
Bill Carlisle (host): Shanghai Rooster
Justin Tubb: But Wait; There's More
Crook Brothers: Black Mountain Rag
Bill Carlisle: Doctor R.D. 

11:00: Coca Cola
Hank Snow (host): I'm Moving On 
Billy Walker: Bare With Me A Little Longer
Margie Bowes: Enough To Make A Woman Lose Her Mind
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Instrumental
Hank Snow: Confused With The Blues
Sam McGee: Under The Double Eagle
Jimmy Dickens: You Destroyed Me
Billy Walker: A Million & One
Hank Snow: Man Behind The Gun

11:30: Lava
Marty Robbins (host): Running Gun
Charlie Louvin: See The Big Man Cry
Ernie Ashworth: Sad Face
Curly Fox: Won't You Come Home Bill Bailey
Don Winters: Annie Lou
Cousin Jody: Run, Please Run
Bluegrass Country Kin: Ole Slewfoot
Marty Robbins: Devil Woman/The Shoe Goes On The Other Foot Tonight/Begging To You/El Paso

As was traditional with non-members at the time, The 4 Guys received just one spot. 

There you have it for this Tuesday night. Have fun with the Opry. 

Grand Ole Opry 2/7 & 2/8

I think I wrote it last week, but the quality of Grand Ole Opry shows in 2025 as the Opry celebrates Opry 100, has been very, very good. We are seeing a lot of Opry members returning, and in fact, the majority of the lineups have featured only Opry members. This weekend is no exception. 

Three Grand Ole Opry members will be appearing on both shows this weekend, led by Country Music Hall of Fame member Vince Gill. Joining Vince on Friday and Saturday will be Old Crow Medicine Show and Mark Wills. 

John Conlee, Dailey & Vincent and T. Graham Brown are scheduled on Friday night, along with Carlos DeFord Bailey, and very frequent Opry guest Maggie Rose, who wrote the following on her social media pages: "Excited to debut “I Can’t Make You Love Me” with Vince Gill this Friday at the @opry!" Definitely looking forward to hearing this new song. 

Bill Anderson, Jeannie Seely and Don Schlitz are on Saturday's lineup, as is Steve Earle, who continues is string of Opry appearances. Rounding out the lineup is the very talented Wendy Moten. 

Friday February 7
7:00: Mark Wills, T. Graham Brown, Carlos DeFord Bailey, Old Crow Medicine Show
Intermission
8:20: John Conlee, Dailey & Vincent, Maggie Rose, Vince Gill. 

Saturday February 8
7:00: Opry Square Dancers, Mark Wills, Wendy Moten, Bill Anderson, Old Crow Medicine Show
Intermission
8:20: Jeannie Seely, Steve Earle, Opry Square Dancers, Don Schlitz, Vince Gill 

Very solid lineups both nights. 

Continuing the look back at past Grand Ole Opry members, it was on Saturday February 8, 1975, that Jimmy Dickens rejoined the cast of the Grand Ole Opry. 

From the Nashville Tennessean (Feb. 9):

Little Jimmy Dickens was reunited with the Grand Ole Opry after 18 years Saturday night, appearing with Hank Snow and singing the Family Reunion. 

"I thought it was appropriate," Dickens said of his choice of the song. "It's hard to put in words and say how you feel about being back in the family. It's like coming back for the first time, it's been so long."

Dickens was introduced by Snow, his friend of many years, as "one of the greatest and finest performers every to appear on the Opry...Mr. Showman himself." He spoke of how Dickens had been missed in his absence. "You don't how much that means to me," Dickens responded. "My heart has always been right here with the Opry."

Dickens left the Opry in 1957, after nine years with the program, to travel with the Phillip Morris Road show. At that time, the Opry's sponsorship by the R. J. Reynolds Tabacco Co. prohibited any Opry member from traveling with a tour sponsored by a competitor. So Dickens and several other members left the radio show to travel with Morris for 18 months. "There were no hard feelings ever," Dickens said Saturday explaining that his road schedule and the demands of an Opry contract simply wouldn't fit together. 

During the long separation from the Opry, Dickens maintained a close association with his friends who were still a part of it and made many guest appearances. But it was not the same as being a regular. "I always missed it," Dickens said. "I always felt a part of the Opry in my heart, and I was delighted when they asked me to come back." The main reason he finally decided to return, Dickens said, was that his friends so often asked him to-friends like Roy Acuff, Ernest Tubb and Hank Snow. 

Snow, who whom Dickens shared a dressing room Saturday night, confirmed his interest in having his old friend come back. "We need more Jimmy Dickenses," he said. "It's like replacing the most important spoke in a wheel to have him back on the Opry. In my opinion, Jimmy is one of the greatest showmen of all time. He is a great artist, a good box office attraction, and he's a good person-and that's what it takes." 

The other circumstance making it possible for Dickens to return at this time involves recent changes in the demands of Opry contracts. Those changes, he said, allow him to continue his heavy road schedule and still make a lot of appearances on the Opry. His return does not mean, Dickens said emphatically, that he is slowing down. He has just returned from a series of shows in Alaska and the Pacific northwest and will leave tomorrow for a 17-day tour of Europe. Much of the summer is already accounted for, and he intends to make Opry appearances as often as possible. 

"Of course I miss my family, but I get restless when I'm not working," he smiled. 

Here is the running order from Saturday February 8, 1975, the night Jimmy Dickens returned as a member of the Grand Ole Opry: 

1st show
6:00: Vietti
David Houston (host): She's All Woman/Baby; Baby/Living In A House Full Of Love
Charlie Louvin: The High Cost Of Living
David Houston: Nashville
Charlie Louvin: When You Have To Fly Alone
Kenny Penny: Devil's Dream
David Houston: Almost Persuaded

6:30: Mrs. Grissoms
Billy Walker (host): Smokey Places
Justin Tubb: Ramblin' Man
Jim & Jesse: Please Be My Love
Billy Walker: You Gave Me A Mountain

6:45: Rudy's
Jim Ed Brown (host): Don't Let Go
Billy Grammer: Wabash Cannonball/God Will Take Care Of You
Jim Ed Brown: Pop A Top

7:00: Rudy's
Bill Monroe (host): I Wonder Where You Are Tonight
Loretta Lynn: The Pill
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper: I Ain't Gonna Work Tomorrow
Jimmy C Newman: Big Mamou
Bill Monroe: Blue Moon Of Kentucky
Loretta Lynn; Coal Miner's Daughter
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper: Did You Think To Pray
Bill Monroe: Bluegrass Breakdown

7:30: Standard Candy
Porter Wagoner (host): On A Highway Headed South
Marion Worth: Sleeping At The Foot Of The Bed
Osborne Brothers: Rocky Top
Barbara Lea: Ain't Love Grand
Crook Brothers & The Stoney Mountain Cloggers: Black Mountain Rag
Porter Wagoner: Green, Green Grass Of Home/Cold Hard Facts Of Life/Carroll County Accident

8:00: Martha White
Lester Flatt (host): I Wonder If You're Lonesome Too
Grandpa Jones: Ol' Rattler's Pup
Willis Brothers: Wild Side Of Love
Stu Phillips: Loving You; Still Loving You
Lester Flatt: Great Big Woman & A Little Bitty Bottle Of Wine
Grandpa & Ramona Jones: Fallen Leaves
Willis Brothers: Big Daddy
Lester Flatt: Foggy Mountain Breakdown

8:30: Stephens
Hank Snow (host): I'm Moving On
Jeanne Pruett: Just Like Your Daddy
Jimmy Dickens: Family Reunion
Bill Carlisle: Shanghai's Rooster
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Nubbing Ridge
Jeanne Pruett: Hold To My Unchanging Love/Love Me/You Don't Need To Move A Mountain/Satin Sheets
Hank Snow: Indian Love Call

2nd show
Kellogg's
David Houston (host): Jambalaya
Willis Brothers: Give Me 40 Acres
Billy Walker: Cross The Brazos At Waco
Charlie Louvin: Mary Of The Wild Moor
David Houston: Good Things
Ernie Ashworth: The High Cost Of Living
David Houston: Almost Persuaded

10:00: Fender
Bill Monroe (host): Never Again Will I Knock On Your Door
Jimmy C Newman: Potato Song
Jim & Jesse: Paradise
Bill Monroe: Mule Skinner Blues

10:15: Union 76
Porter Wagoner (host): On A Highway Headed South
Loretta Lynn: The Pill
Billy Grammer: What A Friend
Porter Wagoner: Carolina Moonshiner
Mac McGaha: Orange Blossom Special

10:30: Trailblazer
Lester Flatt (host): Little Maggie
Grandpa & Ramona Jones: Arkansas Traveler
Justin Tubb: Loving Arms
Lester Flatt: Let The Church Roll On

10:45: Beechnut
Jim Ed Brown (host): The Three Bells
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper: Thank God I Am Free
Crook Brothers & The Stoney Mountain Cloggers: Ida Red
Jim Ed Brown: Southern Loving

11:00: Coca Cola
Hank Snow (host): You're Easy To Love
Jeanne Pruett: Just Like Your Daddy
Osborne Brothers: Ruby
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Bill Cheatham
Jeanne Pruett: Welcome To The Sunshine
Sam McGee: Victor Rag
Hank Snow: My Mother

11:30: Elm Hill
Stu Phillips (host): Loving You; Still Loving You
Jimmy Dickens: I'm Little But I'm Loud/I Love Lucy Brown
Marion Worth: Delta Dawn
Bill Carlisle: Have A Drink On Me
Ronnie Robbins: Mama Tried; If You Love Me, Let Me Know
Stu Phillips: No One Knows

As everyone knows, once Jimmy Dickens returned, he never left, remaining an active member of the Opry until his death on January 2, 2015. And yes, we all miss Mr. Dickens. 

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