Grand Ole Opry 2/27 & 2/28

Just a bit of news before getting into what will be taking place at the Grand Ole Opry this weekend. On Tuesday, the Opry named it's NextStage class for 2026. Alexandra Kay, Carter Faith, Emily Ann Roberts, Graham Barham, Hudson Westbrook, Jake Worthington, Tyler Braden, Vincent Mason, Willow Avalon make up the class of 2026. All have appeared on the Opry previously and more appearances are expected in the coming year. 

Some are disappointed that John Foster was not named to this class. So am I. As he continues his string of Opry appearances, fans have been impressed and he has been well received. Hopefully, the future will be bright for him. 

Now looking ahead to this weekend, it going to be a very special night at the Grand Ole Opry House on Saturday as the Opry will celebrate the 25th anniversary of the O Brother, Where Art Thou soundtrack. 

But before we get to Saturday night, there is a very good Friday Night Opry on the calendar that will feature Opry members Connie Smith, who missed last weekend, John Conlee, Riders In The Sky, Mark Wills and The Isaacs. Rounding out the lineup is the amazing guitarist Tommy Emmanual, Jackson Dean and making their Opry debut, Red Camel Collective. 

Red Camel Collective is one of bluegrass music's hottest new acts. The group includes Heather Berry Mabe, Tony Mabe, Curt Love, and Johnathan Dillon. Originally from Walnut Cove, NC, known for blending heartfelt vocals, masterful musicianship, and a modern take on traditional roots. They won the 2025 IBMA New Artist of the Year award and their self-titled debut album spent three months at No. 1 on the Bluegrass Unlimited Album Chart

Now, taking a look at Saturday night and the official press release: 

The Grand Ole Opry will host a 25th anniversary celebration for the 8x Platinum O Brother, Where Art Thou? soundtrack on Sat. February 28. The special Opry show will feature artists from the original soundtrack and more including Alaskan Sunnyside Sisters, Alison Krauss, Billy Strings, Chris Thomas King, Colin Linden, Dan Tyminski, Del McCoury Band, Emmylou Harris,  Fisk Jubilee Singers, Jerry Douglas, Molly Tuttle, Old Crow Medicine Show, Sarah Jarosz, The Fairfield Four, The Whites, and Tim Blake Nelson.

The film’s iconic, T Bone Burnett–produced soundtrack helped spark a renaissance of roots music—bringing bluegrass, gospel, blues, country, and folk back into the spotlight. Like the Opry has done and featured for over 100 years, the show will honor the music, the legacy and the timeless sound of the American South.

An exclusive 25th anniversary O Brother, Where Art Thou? Hatch Show Print poster will be available for sale in The Opry Shop. 

Lost Highway Records will mark the 25th anniversary of the iconic O Brother, Where Art Thou? soundtrack by releasing a vinyl gatefold edition on February 20, 2026.

O Brother, Where Art Thou? was produced by T Bone Burnett for the 2000 Coen Brothers’ film of the same name, which was set in rural Mississippi during the Great Depression and starred George Clooney, John Turturro and Tim Blake Nelson as three escaped convicts. The soundtrack climbed to the No. 1 position on the Billboard 200 after winning multiple GRAMMY® Awards, including Album of the Year. It was also named Album of the Year at the Country Music Association Awards, the Academy of Country Music Awards and the IBMA Bluegrass Music Awards. The film and soundtrack sparked a 21st-century cultural renaissance, reintroducing traditional American roots music to the masses and inspiring a new wave of popular music, rooted in the American South – a movement that Lost Highway Records was at the epicenter of.

 O Brother, Where Art Thou? was the biggest-selling soundtrack of the decade according to Billboard and, in recent years, has been named as one of the best soundtracks of all time by such outlets as Rolling Stone, Pitchfork, Time Out and Parade. As contemporary artists continue to reimagine its songs – such as Home Free’s cover of “Man of Constant Sorrow” and Pepper Coyote’s version of “Big Rock Candy Mountain” – the soundtrack’s resounding impact is clear.

I find it very hard to believe that it has been 25 years since the movie came out and I am very happy that the Opry was able to get the vast majority of those associated with the movie to come out for this special night. As stated in the press release, Grand Ole Opry members Alison Krauss, Emmylou Harris, Old Crow Medicine Show, Del McCoury Band and The Whites head up the lineup, with Billy Strings, Dan Tyminski, Molly Tuttle and Jerry Douglas among those who will be appearing. 

Friday February 27: 
7:00: Mark Wills, Connie Smith, Red Camel Collective, Tommy Emmanuel
Intermission
8:20: John Conlee, Riders In The Sky, Jackson Dean, The Isaacs

Saturday February 28
7:00:
Alison Krauss
The Fairfield Four
Billy Strings
Old Crow Medicine Show
Sarah Jarosz
Fisk Jubilee Singers
Colin Linden
Chris Thomas King
The Whites
Molly Tuttle
Emmylou Harris
Alaska Sunnyside Singers
Tim Blake Nelson
Dan Tyminski
Del McCoury Band
Jerry Douglas
Suart Duncan
Mike Compton
Dennis Crouch

(There will be an intermission at 8:00)

Let me add that I am very happy to see Alison back on the Opry. It has been a while (not counting the NBC special, and she has been missed. As to the running order, the list I posted is what was sent out. Don't necessarily assume all will appear in that order. 

It is that time of year where we start to anticipate the naming of the newest members of the Country Music Hall of Fame. Each year there are numerous debates on who should be in the Hall yet have been passed over for years. One of those is Archie Campbell. 

Archie Campbell was from Bulls Gap, Tennessee. He got his start in 1936 when he co-hosted a radio show with Roy Acuff in Knoxville. A year later, he moved to Chattanooga, where he stayed until joining the Navy in 1941. After returning from the service, he moved back to Knoxville and station WNOX, where he helped to create the Tennessee Barn Dance. In 1952 he moved to a rival station where he helped to start Country Playhouse, the city's first country music television program. 

In 1958 Archie moved to Nashville and to the Grand Ole Opry. The following year replaced Rod Brasfield on the nationally syndicated Prince Albert segment of the Opry. Soon after, he signed a contract with RCA Victor, and one of his early singles, "Trouble in the Amen Corner" reached the 1960 country music top 25. After an unsuccessful stint with the Starday label, Campbell returned to RCA Victor in 1966 and had three top 30 singles: "The Men in My Little Girl's Life" (1966), "The Dark End of the Street" (1968), and "Tell It Like It Is" (1968).  

 In 1968 he became a writer and star for the popular country variety show Hee-Haw. In 1969, his success as a recording artist and actor led him to be named "Comedian of the Year" by the Country Music Association. 

In 1984, Campbell hosted TNN's Yesteryear interview show. Campbell was an accomplished amateur golfer and built one of the earliest lighted golf courses in the United States. An avid painter (he painted the mural backstage at the Grand Ole Opry), he also owned an art gallery and served on the school board in Knoxville, where he lived until his death.

On June 15, 1987, Campbell suffered a heart attack. He had heart surgery but then died of kidney failure on August 29, 1987.

I bring up Archie Campbell because it was on February 28, 1987, that Archie Campbell made his final appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. By that point in his career, Archie had a theater in Gatlinburg, Tennessee and would spend much of the tourist season performing there, with his Opry appearances generally taking place during the winter months. 

Here is the posted lineup from Saturday February 28, 1987: 

1st show: 
6:30: Stonewall Jackson (host): The 4 Guys
6:45: Archie Campbell (host): Skeeter Davis
7:00: Hank Snow (host): Charlie Walker, Boxcar Willie, Dottie West
7:30: Roy Acuff (host): Jim Ed Brown, Connie Smith, George Hamilton IV, The Crook Brothers, Melvin Sloan Dancers
8:00: Porter Wagoner (host): The Osborne Brothers, Roy Drusky, The Whites, Jeanne Pruett
8:30: Grandpa Jones (host): Del Reeves, Jean Shepard, Billy Walker, Jack Greene

2nd show
9:30: Porter Wagoner (host): The 4 Guys, Dottie West, The Carlisles, Lorrie Morgan Whitley
10:00: Archie Campbell (host): Jeannie Seely
10:15: Roy Acuff (host): Boxcar Willie
10:30: Grandpa Jones (host): Jean Shepard, Charlie Louvin
10:45: Jim Ed Brown (host): Roy Drusky, The Crook Brothers, Melvin Sloan Dancers
11:00: Hank Snow (host): Connie Smith, The Osborne Brothers, The Whites
11:30: Del Reeves (host): Jack Greene, Jeanne Pruett

When Archie first came to the Opry, country comedians were expected to dress like country bumkins and rural characters. That changed with Archie: 

"One particular night at the Opry, I took a look at Ferlin Husky. He was one of those well-dressed cats; he'd come out in them mohair suits. And I thought, my God, that's it. So I bought a new mohair suit, while shirt and a white tie. When I came on that night, they asked, 'Where's your costume?' And I said, 'This is it,' And they said, 'Hell, you can't go out in stuff like that. That's no outfit for a comedian.'"

That night, he proved his point as he saved his best stuff for the show that night, and again in his words, "I really laid 'em in the aisles. I proved my point. As far as I know, I'm the first one to ever dress like that in country comedy." 

I mentioned that Archie has been overlooked for the Country Music Hall of Fame. His resume speaks for itself. He was one of the top comedians on the Opry for almost 30 years. And not only was he a great comedian, but he was also a wonderful storyteller. He was a charter member of the cast of Hee Haw on CBS-TV from its beginning in 1969, and he also served as one of the head writers. He also developed many of the characters and scripts on the show such as Archie's Barber Shop, Doc Cambell and Justus O'Peace. His contributions to country music were enormous. 

Archie Campbell's childhood home on Main Street in Bulls Gap, Tennessee, has been preserved as a memorial, and has been expanded into a "tourism complex and museum." I visited there a couple of years ago and it is wonderful. It's a little out of the way and a bit hard to find, but it is worth the stop. Plus, it is free!!

On June 15, 1987, Campbell suffered a heart attack. He had heart surgery but then died of kidney failure on August 29, 1987. He is buried near the town of Powell, Tennessee.

Enjoy the Opry this weekend! 

Tuesday Night Opry 2/24

On February 6, 1976 Ronnie Milsap became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. On the Tuesday Night Opry this week, Ronnie will be honored as he celebrates his 50th year as a member of the Opry's cast. 

Ronnie came to Nashville in 1973 and was signed by RCA. The hits started soon after that and within a few years, led Ronnie to the Opry. As he said, "Before I joined the Opry in 1976, Jeanne Pruett was always getting me to come out here and guest. Eventually she said, 'I think you need to join the Grand Ole Opry.' And I said, 'Well, how do you do that?' All of a sudden, one night I was over here, and Mr. Roy Acuff came up to me in the hall and said, 'Hey, Ronnie, you want to be a member of the Opry?' I said, 'Yes, sir.' He said, 'Ok, then you're going to be a member of the Grand Ole Opry.'"

Ronnie Milsap is certainly one of the greats in the history of country music. During his career, he has released over 30 albums and has had over 40 number one hits. He has won multiple CMA and ACM Awards including being named the CMA Entertainer of the Year in 1977 and receiving the ACM Pioneer Award in 2002. In 2014 he was elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame. 

His Opry career has been a little spotty, at best. Since joining the cast in 1976, he has appeared less than 100 times. However, when he did appear, he was always well received. Now retired from performing, his last scheduled Opry appearance was when he celebrated his 80th birthday three years ago. While his 80th birthday was his last performing appearance, he did appear in March 2025 on the NBC 100th Opry special. He spent the majority of the show seated in the audience but did participate in the group number at the end. 

Joining Ronnie on Tuesday night will be a couple of Opry members who rarely appear on the show: Blake Shelton and Keith Urban. Outside of their appearance on the NBC 100th Opry special, neither of these Opry members appeared on the Opry in 2025. Keith last appeared in 2024 while Blake hasn't made a scheduled Opry appearance since 2022. Also on the schedule are members Trace Adkins, Mark Wills and Vince Gill. Ella Langley, currently the #1 female artist in country music, will be making a guest appearance, and I am sure many of those who bought tickets will be excited to see her, and might be there specifically for Ella. Rounding out the lineup is the Tennessee School for the Blind Jazz Band. 

In addition to honoring Ronnie Milsap, the Opry is also scheduled to announce the 2026 Opry NextStage class, which always creates a lot of excitement. 

Tuesday February 24
7:00: Mark Wills, Trace Adkins, Ella Langley, Keith Urban
Intermission
8:20: Vince Gill, Blake Shelton, Tennessee School for the Blind Jazz Band, Ronnie Milsap

Ronnie is scheduled currently to do 2 songs on Tuesday night. Reports are that he has been rehearsing. Hopefully he can pull it off. I know when I was there for his last show in 2023, it was a challenge. No matter, I am happy that he is well enough to appear and celebrate his 50th anniversary as a member of the Grand Ole Opry. He joins a very short and selective list. 

(Rhonda Vincent posted on her Facebook page that she will be at the Opry on Tuesday night. She did not specify if she will be there performing or just to help honor Ronnie. As I post this on Sunday evening, I have not seen any cancellations in the lineup that I received). 

The weekend Ronnie joined the Opry, he appeared on the Friday Night Opry, where he officially became a member, welcomed by Roy Acuff. Ronnie also appeared the following night. Here is the running order from Saturday February 7, 1976, Ronnie's first appearance as an official member of the Opry's cast:

1st show
6:30: Mrs. Grissoms
Billy Grammer (host): Gotta Travel On
Del Wood: Keep on the Firing Line/(?)
Billy Grammer: That's Life/God Will Take Care of You

6:45: Rudy's
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper (host): Curly-Headed Baby
Skeeter Davis: Love Will Keep Us Together
Willis Brothers: Truck Stop
Wilma Lee Cooper: The Tramp on the Street

7:00: Shoney's
Porter Wagoner (host): On A Highway Headed South
Barbara Mandrell: Standing Room Only
Roy Drusky: Sunrise
Ernie Ashworth: Wichita Woman
Barbara Mandrell: Steel Guitar Rag
Roy Drusky: One Day at A Time
Porter Wagoner: Cold Hard Facts of Life/The Carroll County Accident/Green, Green Grass of Home

7:30: Standard Candy
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Don Gibson: Sweet Dreams
Marion Worth: You Win Again
Justin Tubb: Looking Back to See
Roy Acuff: Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain
Crook Brothers/Stoney Mountain Cloggers: Gray Eagle
Don Gibson: Oh, Lonesome Me

8:00: Martha White
Osborne Brothers (host): Smokey Mountain Smoke
Grandpa Jones: Ball Headed End of the Broom
Connie Smith: 'Til I Kissed Ya
Charlie Louvin & Pam Dickinson: Don't It Seem to Rain A Lot In Our Lives
Hank Locklin: Send Me the Pillow You Dream On
Osborne Brothers: Rocky Top

8:30: Stephens
Hank Snow (host): I Don't Hurt Anymore
Jeanne Pruett: Satin Sheets
Ronnie Milsap: Daydreams About Night Things
Bill Carlisle: I'm Moving
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Bill Cheatham
Brush Arbor: White Line
Hank Snow: The Next Voice You Hear

2nd show
9:30: Kellogg's
Roy Drusky (host): Alone With You
Willis Brothers: Bob
Don Gibson: I Can't Stop Loving You
Skeeter Davis: One Tin Soldier
Justin Tubb: As Long As There's A Sunday
Don Gibson: Blue, Blue Day
Roy Drusky: Bouquet of Roses

10:00: Fender
Porter Wagoner (host): Tennessee Sunshine
Barbara Mandrell: Satisfied
Del Wood: The Entertainer
Porter Wagoner: The Last One to Touch Me

10:15: Union 76
Roy Acuff (host): Traveling the Highway Alone
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper: Heartbreak Street
Roy Acuff: The Great Speckled Bird/I Saw the Light

10:30: Trailblazer
Grandpa Jones (host): Nashville On My Mind
Osborne Brothers: Smokey Mountain Smoke
Billy Grammer: That's Life
Grandpa Jones: Make Me A Pallet Down on the Floor

10:45: Beech-Nut
Hank Locklin (host): The Sweetest Mistake I Ever Made
Connie Smith: 'Til I Kissed Ya
Crook Brothers/Smokey Mountain Cloggers: Cotton Eyed Joe
Hank Locklin: Send Me the Pillow You Dream On

11:00: Coca-Cola
Hank Snow (host): Tangled Mind
Stu Phillips: Only You Can Hush the Wind
Marion Worth: Delta Dawn
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Hickory Leaf
Ernie Ashworth: Wichita Woman
Kirk McGee: My Darling Rose Malone
Hank Snow: Mary Ann Regrets

11:30: Elm Hill
Charlie Louvin (host): I Just Want Out
Jeanne Pruett: Break My Mind/Satin Sheets
Ronnie Milsap: Lovesick Blues/Just in Case/Daydreams About Night Things
Bill Carlisle: Little Liza Jane
Charlie Louvin & Pam Dickinson: If I Could Only Win Your Love

Congratulations again to Ronnie Milsap and while I am unable to be there on Tuesday night, I will be listening from my home base in Canton. 

Grand Ole Opry 2/20 & 2/21

Another weekend of solid shows at the Grand Ole Opry, highlighted by a return appearance by Opry members, the Oak Ridge Boys, who are on the schedule for both Friday and Saturday night. You might remember when the Oaks appeared several weekends ago that they brought out Richard Sterban to sing the closing verse of Elvia. For those who may not know, Richard has been battling a very serious health issue and had not appeared with the group since the previous Spring. It will be interesting to see if Richard is with the group again for these upcoming shows. 

Also on the schedule for both nights is comedian Gary Mule Deer. For all of the appearances that we have gotten used to seeing from Gary Mule at the Opry, this will be only his 3rd & 4th shows in 2026. But don't worry; he is down for more on the upcoming schedules.

Joining that pair on Friday night are members Mandy Barnett, Del McCoury and The Whites. Speaking of Mandy, she has taken over the Sirius XM Sunday afternoon show on Willie's Roadhouse that was hosted by Jeannie Seely. I might add that Mandy is doing a great job. 

Guesting on Friday are singer/songwriter Charlie Worsham, The Band Perry and John Foster. 

It will be an all-member show on Saturday night as in addition to the Oaks and Gary Mule, Ashley McBryde, John Conlee, Riders In The Sky, Connie Smith and one of the Opry's newest members, Steve Earle are scheduled. 

Friday February 20
7:00: Mandy Barnett, The Whites, Del McCoury Band, John Foster
Intermission
8:20: Charlie Worsham, Gary Mule Deer, The Band Perry, Oak Ridge Boys

Saturday February 21
7:00: Opry Square Dancers, Riders In The Sky, John Conlee, Connie Smith, Steve Earle
Intermission
8:20: Opry Square Dancers, Gary Mule Deer, Oak Ridge Boys, Ashely McBryde

There have been more than a few characters who in the history of the Grand Ole Opry have become members. One of those was Lecil Travis Martin. While that name may not ring a bell with some of the younger fans of the Opry, his stage name certainly does: Boxcar Willie. Boxcar joined the cast of the Opry 45 years ago this weekend, February 21, 1981. 

From the Tennessean: 

With tears in his eyes and a catch in his voice, Boxcar Willie became the Grand Ole Opry's 60th member on Saturday night. 

Boxcar's induction into the ranks of country music greats is the second in recent weeks, part of the Opry's latest move to upgrade the show's cast. The grizzled hobo singer, wearing the overalls, threadbare jacket and tattered hat that have brought him from relative obscurity to international stardom in just a few years, was introduced on stage by Roy Acuff. Ironically, Saturday night marked the 43rd anniversary of Acuff's own tenure on the Opry. 

"C'mon Boxcar, let's tear into them. You got 43 years to go to catch up to me on the Grand Ole Opry," said an ebullient Acuff, in his introduction. Describing Boxcar Willie as "a true-blue country music lover," Acuff noted the Opry's newest member "had tried different styles to make his living in country music. But finally, he tired being his own natural self and since then he's been very successful. We wish him all the success in the world." 

Visibly moved, "Box," as he is known to his friends, took the stage where he was greeted warmly by Mr. Acuff. "Mr. Acuff, I have been practicing and dreaming for 40 years of being on the Grand Ole Opry," he said. "I've been rehearsing my speech for that long. And now, I'm speechless." "Why don't you cry a little bit for us," suggested Acuff. "If you say anything else, I will," said Boxcar. 

At Acuff's urging "make us a good 'un" the singer then broke into a spirited melody of train songs and hobo ditties, highlighted by a rendition of Acuff's own trademark, Wabash Cannonball. 

Until four years ago, Boxcar Willie was a relatively unknown singer and disc jockey in Texas named Jim Martin. The son of a real-life hobo turned tenant farmer, Martin developed an early love of hobo lore and songs that went with it. For years, he sang and played around Texas and the upper Midwest with little success until his decision to incorporate a hobo image into his act. 

Since then, he has had a rush of success. His first appearance at the Wembley Festival of Country Music in England several years ago boosted him to immediate fame in Great Britain, where he has remained a consistently popular recording star. More recently, he has begun to develop a large American following with such songs as "Daddy Was a Railroad Man" and "The Lord Made a Hobo Out of Me." Currently television ads for his latest album are attracting attention around the country, and he has become a frequent performer on television's Hee Haw. 

Born Lecil Travis Martin, Boxcar Willie never worked on the railroads. However, Willie loved the railroads and kept running away to ride the trains when he was a child. He also loved country music, particularly the songs of Jimmie Rodgers, Roy Acuff, and Ernest Tubb. As a teenager, Boxcar Willie would perform under his given name, eventually becoming a regular on the Big D Jamboree in Dallas, TX. In his early twenties, he served in the Air Force. After he left the service, he continued to sing in clubs and radio shows. In the late '50s, he began performing as Marty Martin, while working blue-collar jobs during the day. Marty Martin released an album, Marty Martin Sings Country Music and Stuff Like That, around 1958, but it was ignored.

In the mid-'60s, Martin wrote a song called "Boxcar Willie," based on a hobo he saw on a train. Martin continued to struggle in his musical career until the mid-'70s. By that time, he had become a DJ in Corpus Christi, TX. In 1975, he decided to risk everything he had on one final chance at stardom. He moved to Nashville and developed the Boxcar Willie character, using his song as the foundation.

Initially, Boxcar Willie wasn't very successful, but he had a lucky break in 1976 when he was called in to replace a sick George Jones at a Nashville club. During that performance, he was spotted by Drew Taylor, a Scottish booking agent. Taylor brought Boxcar Willie over to England for a tour, where he was enthusiastically received. Later that year, he released his first album, which was a moderate success in the U.K. Through the rest of the '70s, Willie toured Britain and every tour was more successful, culminating in a performance at the International Country Music Festival at Wembley in 1979. After his Wembley show was finished, he received a standing ovation -- the performance established Boxcar Willie as a star. His next album, King of the Road, became a huge success in England, reaching number five on the album charts; the record was helped immeasurably by its accompanying television advertisements, which sold the record through the mail.

By the end of 1980, Willie had become the most successful country artist in England, and his American success had just begun. King of the Road was available through an American television advertisement. "Train Medley" was a minor hit on the country charts, and he was becoming a popular attraction on U.S. concert circuits. In 1981, he received a spot on the Country Music Hall of Fame's Walkway of the Stars and became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. He was named "Most Promising Male Vocalist" by the Country Music Association, and his TV album "King of the Road" earned double-platinum sales

Boxcar Willie enjoyed his time in the spotlight, becoming a regular on the television show Hee Haw in 1982 and turning out albums as fast as he could make them. "Bad News" became his only American country Top 40 hit in 1982. In 1985, he played a hobo in Sweet Dreams, a film about Patsy Cline. 

In 1985, Martin moved to Branson, Missouri, and purchased a theater on Missouri Route 76, also known as 76 Country Boulevard. In addition to the Boxcar Willie Theater, he opened a museum and eventually had two motels, both bearing his name. Martin was one of the first big stars to open a show in Branson, paving the way for the other nationally known names who followed. 

By the mid-'80s, his star had faded, but he remained a popular concert attraction, particularly in England, into the '90s. 

On October 31, 1996, after having felt tired for a couple of months, Box was told by doctors that he was suffering from the most aggressive type of leukemia, mantle zone lymphatic leukemia. He began a spirited battle for his life – even while undergoing chemotherapy, BoxCar performed six nights a week at his theater. His difficult struggle came to an end on April 12 in his Branson home, where he was surrounded by his family.

Here is the running order from Saturday February 21, 1981, the night Boxcar Willie became a member of the Grand Ole Opry: 

1st show
6:30: Mrs. Grissoms
Roy Drusky (host): Strangers
Wilma Lee Cooper: I Couldn't Believe it Was True
Roy Drusky: The Last Farewell

6:45: Rudy's
Stonewall Jackson (host): Don't Be Angry
Jim and Jesse: Where Do We Go From Here
Connie Smith: Satisfied
Stonewall Jackson: 'Ol Chunk of Coal

7:00: Shoney's
Jim Ed Brown (host): Mariah
Billy Grammer: Somebody Loves You
Ernie Ashworth: Memphis Memory/Nine to Five
Tammy Wynette: Your Good Girl's Gonna Bad/Apartment #9/I Don't Wanna Play House/DIVORCE/Why I Keep Singing My Song/Cowboys Don't Always Shoot Straight/Stand By Your Man
Jim Ed Brown: The 3 Bells

7:30: Standard Candy
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Jean Shepard: You've Still Got a Place in My Heart
Boxcar Willie: Fireball Mail/Train of Love/Hand Me Down My Walking Cane/Wreck of the Old 97/Orange Blossom Special/Wabash Cannonball/Night Train to Memphis
Crook Brothers and The Tennessee Travelers: Lafayette
Roy Acuff: Will the Circle Be Unbroken

8:00: Martha White
Grandpa Jones (host) and Ramona Jones: Piney Jane
Wilburn Brothers: Making Plans
Jeanne Pruett: Break My Mind
David Houston: My Lady
Grandpa and Ramona Jones: Dark As A Dungeon

8:30: Acme
Hank Snow (host): I'm Moving On
The Four Guys: Turn Your Radio On
Jimmy C Newman: Instrumental
Jan Howard: Rolling In My Sweet Baby's Arms/Rocky Top
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Saturday Night Hop
Hank Snow and Kelly Foxton: Before the Next Teardrop Falls

2nd show
9:30: Kellogg's
Porter Wagoner (host): Ol' Slewfoot
The Four Guys: Loving Up a Storm
Connie Smith: When I Need Jesus, He's There
Roy Drusky: Don't It Make You Want to Go Home
Vic Willis Trio: Cimarron
Porter Wagoner: Tennessee Saturday Night/Cold Hard Facts of Life/Carroll County Accident/Green, Green Grass of Home/On A Highway Headed South

10:00: Little Debbie
Jim Ed Brown (host): Lyin' In Love With You
Bill Carlisle: No Help Wanted
Stu Phillips: Have I Told You Lately That I Love You/You Win Again/Please Release Me
Jim Ed Brown: I Believe

10:15: Sunbeam
Roy Acuff (host): Down in Union County
Boxcar Willie: Fireball Mail/Train of Love/Hand Me Down My Walking Cane/Wreck of the Old 97/Orange Blossom Special/Wabash Cannonball/Night Train to Memphis
Roy Acuff: I'll Fly Away/I Saw the Light

10:30: Trailblazer
Grandpa Jones (host): Little Pink
Jean Shepard: Foggy River/If You've Got the Money, I've Got the Time
Grandpa and Ramona Jones: I Wonder Where My Darling is Tonight

10:45: Beechnut
Stonewall Jackson (host): Why I'm Walkin'
Wilma Lee Cooper: Bury Me Beneath the Willow
Crook Brothers and The Tennessee Travelers: Sally Goodin
Stonewall Jackson: Muddy Water

11:00: Coca Cola
Hank Snow (host): I've Cried A Mile
Jeanne Pruett: Satin Sheets
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Nubbing Ridge
Billy Grammer: Blue Water
Kirk McGee: Railroad Blues
Hank Snow and Kelly Foxton: Check

11:30: Bama Jelly
Jimmy C Newman (host): Louisiana Cajun Band
Jan Howard: Evil on Your Mind/Memories for Sale
David Houston: My Lady
Wilburn Brothers: Troubles Back in Town
Wade B. Landry: Orange Blossom Special

Boxcar Willie was perhaps the most successful invented character in the history of country music. With his kitschy persona and stage act -- highlighted by his amazingly accurate impersonation of a train whistle -- Willie played into the stereotype of the lovable, good-natured hobo who spent his life riding the rails and singing songs. Since his popularity had more to do with his image than his music, it makes sense that he was massively successful in England, where he personified Americana. Willie's English success carried him over to American success in the early '80s, where he ironically was perceived as carrying the torch for traditional country, because he kept the stereotypes alive.

Have a nice weekend and thanks for reading along. 

 

  

 

Tuesday Night Opry 2/17

Grand Ole Opry member Chris Janson heads up the lineup for this week's Tuesday Night Opry. Joining Chris will be Opry comedian Gary Mule Deer. Guesting are Restless Road, Maggie Rose, Ernest and making their Opry debut Clay Street Unit. 

Tuesday February 17
7:00: T. Graham Brown, Restless Road, Clay Street Unit, Maggie Rose
Intermission
8:20: ERNEST, Gary Mule Deer, Dailey & Vincent, Chris Janson

Clay Street Unit’s debut album, Sin & Squalor, is a full-length project that blends the acoustic instrumentation of bluegrass and folk with the amplified energy of Americana and country, creating a unique interpretation of American roots music. Recorded in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains and inspired by Appalachian sounds, the album features six members — mandolinist Scottie Bolin, banjo player Jack Cline, pedal steel guitarist Brad Larrison, drummer Brendan Lamb, bassist Jack Kotarba, and singer/guitarist Sam Walker — who have spent their formative years in cities like Atlanta, Charlottesville, and Montgomery before coming together in Denver, Colorado.

In September 2025, Clay Street Unit signed with Leo33, a label that has worked with artists like The Infamous Stringdusters, to help promote their debut MusicRow. The album was recorded with producer Chris Pandolfi, who also co-founded the Grammy-winning Infamous Stringdusters, aiming to capture the band’s live energy while showcasing their evolved songwriting since their 2022 EP A Mighty Fine Evening.

Grand Ole Opry 2/13 & 2/14

Taking a look at the Grand Ole Opry lineups for this weekend, the Friday Night Opry has Opry members Mark Wills, Connie Smith and Trace Adkins on the schedule. Also appearing will be George Thorogood & The Destroyers, The Infamous Stringdusters and MercyMe. 

Trace and MercyMe will also be appearing on a special segment that will celebrate the upcoming film, "I Can Only Imagine," which is a film inspired by the true stories of MercyMe. While the original film was released in March 2018, this is an update of that original film and is scheduled to be released in theaters on February 20. 

For those not familiar with the film, here is the description: 

After the breakout success of the song “I Can Only Imagine,” MercyMe’s Bart Millard (John Michael Finley) is living the dream—sold-out arenas, a devoted fan base, and a thriving career. But behind the spotlight, Bart’s past threatens the family he’s built, especially the fragile bond with his son, Sam (Sammy Dell).

When hopeful newcomer Tim Timmons (Milo Ventimiglia, “This Is Us”) joins the band for their biggest tour yet, he unknowingly brings a renewed gratitude to Bart’s life through their unlikely friendship. Bart soon discovers that Tim carries hardships—and secrets—of his own, forcing him to face his past and repair his relationships with Sam and his wife, Shannon (Sophie Skelton), before fame costs him what matters most. Based on the heartfelt true story behind the hit single “Even If,” I CAN ONLY IMAGINE 2 is the inspiring next chapter of faith, family, and finding God in the fire.

In addition to Trace Adkins and MercyMe, that special segment will also include John Michael Finley, Tim Timmons and Sam Wesley, with Tim and Sam making their Opry debuts. 

Saturday night Mark Wills returns to make it a two-show weekend, joined by Opry members Bill Anderson, John Conlee, Riders In The Sky and Rhonda Vincent. Connor Smith will be guesting, along with Thelma & James. Rounding out the lineup, and making his Opry debut, will be Blake Whiten, who wrote on his Facebook page that he was "extremely honored" to be making his Opry debut. 

Friday February 13
7:00: Mark Wills, Connie Smith, The Infamous Stringdusters, George Thorogood & The Destroyers
Intermission
8:20: Trace Adkins, Mercy Me, (Story Behind the Movie: Bart, Tim, Trace, John, Sam, & Milo Ventimiglia), John Michael Finley, Tim Timmons, Sam Wesley, Mercy Me

Saturday February 14 
7:00: Opry Square Dancers, Mark Wills, Riders In The Sky, Blake Whiten, Bill Anderson
Intermission
8:20: Thelma & James, John Conlee, Opry Square Dancers, Connor Smith, Rhonda Vincent

While February 14 is St. Valentine's Day, it was also the date that a couple of the Grand Ole Opry's more recent members made their Opry debuts. For Kelsea Ballerini it happened in 2015 and for Lainey Wilson it was in 2020.

From The Tennessean: 
Country newcomer Kelsea Ballerini is sure of one thing-Valentine's Day 2015 will be a day she'll never forget. Ballerini, whose debut single "Love Me Like You Mean It," recently broke in the Top 30 on Billboard's country radio airplay chart, will make her Grand Ole Opry debut on Saturday-Valentine's Day. 

"It's the ultimate Valentine's Day surprise," Ballerini said. "I've been to the Opry twice as a fan, and it's so incredible. I can't believe I get to go from being in the audience to being on the stage. It's awesome but really nerve-wrecking."

Ballerini plans to play a full band version of her single "Love Me Like You Mean It," as well as a harmony driven, stripped down version of her song "First Time" from her self-titled E.P. 

Here is the posted lineup from that night 11 years ago: 

7:00: Opry Square Dancers, Connie Smith (host), Chris Janson, Mike Snider
7:30: Ricky Skaggs (host), Kelsea Ballerini, The Whites
Intermission
8:15: Jim Ed Brown (host), Joe Mullins & The Radio Ramblers, Chuck Wicks
8:45: Bill Anderson (host), Mo Pitney, Charles Esten

As far as Lainey Wilson, this is how she remembered her Opry debut: 

“Most little girls dream about their wedding day, walking down the aisle in a beautiful wedding dress. Well, this is the day I’ve been dreaming about my whole life—to be standing in the Grand Ole Opry circle in a pair of bell bottoms, doing what I love,” said Lainey Wilson. “Stepping into that circle is about like stepping into Country music heaven. You hear about how it’s the best feeling in the world…how it’s better than you imagined it…but you don’t really understand until you get there and experience it for yourself. So many of my influences have stood in that circle. I’m humbled and excited to feel their spirit when I step in for the first time.”

Here is the posted lineup from the night of Lainey's Opry debut on February 14, 2020:

7:00: Mark Wills (host), Mike Snider, Dailey & Vincent
7:30: Bill Anderson (host), The Grascals, Charles Esten
Intermission
8:15: Terri Clark (host), Gary Mule Deer, Lainey Wilson
8:45: John Conlee (host), Sawyer Brown

It didn't take long for either Kelsea or Lainey to become members of the Opry. Kelsea joined the cast on April 16, 2019, while Lainey became a member on June 7, 2024.

There you have it for this weekend. 

Tuesday Night Opry 2/10

The month of February signals the start of the Tuesday Night Opry shows and there is a good show this week to start off the year. 

Grand Ole Opry member Lauren Alaina heads up the lineup, joined by members T. Graham Brown, Dailey & Vincent, comedian Henry Cho, Riders In The Sky, and Rascal Flatts member Jay DeMarcus, who will be appearing with his son Dylan.

Rounding out the schedule are Tyler Halverson, who made his Opry debut in 2024 and The Jack Wharff Band, who will be making their Opry debut this Tuesday night. 

7:00: Dailey & Vincent, Tyler Halverson, The Jack Wharff Band, Riders In The Sky
Intermission
8:20: T. Graham Brown, Henry Cho, Dylan & Jay DeMarcus, Lauren Alaina

In December, The Jack Wharff Band received a surprise of a lifetime when Grand Ole Opry member and Old Crow Medicine Show’s Ketch Secor broke the news that the rising Country/Americana four-piece received an invitation to make their Opry debut on February 10. 

“Still pinching ourselves over this moment. We’re so honored to be invited by Ketch Secor from Old Crow Medicine Show to make our Grand Ole Opry debut next year,” the band shared in an Instagram post. “We can’t believe we get to step foot in that legendary circle; this is such a dream come true for us.”

The Jack Wharff Band is from Richmond, Virginia and play a blend of bluegrass, country and rock.  Known for their electric live performances, masterful instrumentation, and their ability to make music that consistently defies the confines of genre, the young band burst onto the scene in 2024 with snippets of jaw-dropping original songs posted to TikTok and Reels. Comprised of vocalist/frontman Jack Wharff, drummer Garrett Howell, bassist Ryan Atchison and guitarist Evan Novoa, the salt of the earth four-piece has quickly captivated audiences with their infectious energy and unrelenting passion for the craft. They released their debut EP Richmond’s Most Wanted this summer, featuring “six tracks of bluegrass-fueled gold” (Holler), including their breakout track and streaming juggernaut “Washed.” The up-and-coming band has opened for acts including Sam Barber, Ole 60, Max McNown, and more. 

Grand Ole Opry 2/6 & 2/7

Over the past several weeks, I have been getting emails asking about the age of various Grand Ole Opry members. Since there seems to be some interest, I thought I would take a few moments and cover off on the subject. 

The oldest current member of the Grand Ole Opry is Bobby Bare. Bobby, at the age of 90, is followed by Jeanne Pruett, who just celebrated her 89th. Currently, here is the list of members age 80 or over, with those still active highlighted: 

Bobby Bare: 90
Jeanne Pruett: 89
Bill Anderson: 88
Del McCoury: 87
Oak Ridge Boys (William Lee Golden: 87, Duane Allen: 82, Richard Sterban: 82)
Gary Mule Deer: 86
Connie Smith: 84
Charlie McCoy: 84
Ronnie Milsap: 83
Gene Watson: 82
Dolly Parton: 80

And those over 70: 

John Conlee: 79
Riders In The Sky (Ranger Doug: 79, Joey Miskulin: 77, Too Slim: 77, Woody Paul: 76)
Emmylou Harris: 78
Barbara Mandrell: 77
Larry Gatlin: 77
Crystal Gayle: 75
Ricky Van Shelton: 74
Don Schlitz: 73
The Whites (Sharon White: 72, Cheryl White 70)
T. Graham Brown: 71
Ricky Skaggs: 71
Steve Earle: 71
Steve Wariner: 71
Reba McEntire: 70

That is pretty close to a third of the Opry's cast with a few of those some of the heavy hitters when it comes to appearances. Fortunately, younger members have been added over the past several years: Carly Pearce, Lauren Alaina, Ashley McBryde, Henry Cho, Sara Evans, Jon Pardi, Scotty McCreery and Lainey Wilson. Now if we can just get those younger to make more Opry appearances and help carry some of the load, the Opry would be in great shape for the future. 

Hopefully that answers some of the questions that I have been asked. 

Now taking a look at the Grand Ole Opry this weekend, one of those younger members, Carly Pearce will be appearing on the Friday Night Opry. She will be joined by members The Isaacs, Ricky Skaggs, The Whites and Rhonda Vincent, who will be celebrating her 5th year as a member of the cast. 

Ricky Skaggs will be back on Saturday night, making it another two show weekend for him, and on Saturday he will be joined by Lorrie Morgan, John Conlee, Connie Smith and Don Schlitz. 

Guesting on Friday night are Noeline Hofmann and Rissi Palmer. The fantastic Americana group The Shootouts will be making the trip from Akron, Ohio for another Opry appearance on Saturday night. Also appearing are Lorrie's son, Jesse Keith Whitley and Louis York. 

Friday February 6
7:00: Rhonda Vincent, The Whites, Rissi Palmer, The Isaacs
Intermission
8:20: Noeline Hofmann, Ricky Skaggs, Carly Pearce

Saturday February 7
7:00: Opry Square Dancers, Ricky Skaggs, Connie Smith, Louis York, John Conlee
Intermission
8:20: The Shootouts, Opry Square Dancers, Lorrie Morgan w/Jesse Keith Whitley, Don Schlitz

It will be a double celebration this weekend as on Friday night, Rhonda Vincent will celebrate her 5th year as an Opry member and John Conlee will be celebrating his 45th anniversary on Saturday night. 

As mentioned, it was 45 years ago, February 7, 1981, that John Conlee became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. John came to the Opry from Kentucky, where after growing up on a farm, became a funeral home attendant and mortician. He was also employed as a local disc jockey. His recording career started in the mid 1970s as he was signed to ABC/Dot Records and in 1976 "Backside of Thirty" became his first single. In 1978, John had his career song as "Rose Colored Glasses" was released. From then on, the hits kept coming. While his last chart record was in the 1990s, John continues to record and make new music. He also tours and is heavily involved in charity work, including "Feed The Children" and "Farm Aid." A few years back, after his son joined the armed forces, he recorded the song "They Also Serve" and performed it on a regular basis on the Opry.

Here is the running order of the Grand Ole Opry 1st show, Saturday February 7, 1981, the night John Conlee became an Opry member:

1st show
6:30: Mrs. Grissoms
Stonewall Jackson (host): Me and You and A Dog Named Boo
Ernie Ashworth: Mind Your Own Business
Stonewall Jackson: Ol' Chunk of Coal

6:45: Rudy's
Charlie Walker (host): Crazy Arms
Justin Tubb: What's Wrong With the Way That We're Doing It Now
Bill Carlisle: Knothole
Charlie Walker: Don't Play Me No Songs About Texas

7:00: Shoney's
Porter Wagoner (host): Ol' Slewfoot
Jimmy Dickens: Take An Old Cold Tater
John Conlee: She Can't Say That Anymore/What I Had With You/Rose Colored Glasses
Connie Smith: When God Dips His Love In My Heart
Porter Wagoner: What I've Always Wanted/On A Highway Headed South

7:30: Standard Candy
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Jean Shepard: Slippin' Away
Jim & Jesse: Truck Stops and Pretty Girls
Vic Willis Trio: Last Cheater's Waltz
Crook Brothers & The Tennessee Travelers: Durang's Hornpipe
Roy Acuff: That's the Man I'm Looking For

8:00: Martha White
Bill Anderson (host): I Love You Drops
Skeeter Davis: The Rose
Wilburn Brothers: Making Plans
Ray Pillow: Countryfied
Lonzo & Oscar: Green Grass of Home
Bill Anderson: Mr. Peepers

8:30: Acme
Hank Snow (host): Storms Never Last
4 Guys: Fire
Charlie Louvin: Mama's Angels
Roy Drusky: Don't It Make You Want to Go Home
Stu Phillips: I Will
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Bill Bailey
Hank Snow & Kelly Foxton: Check

John Conlee was one of those artists that joined the Opry early in his career and really didn't appear that much. As his career has settled down, John has become one of the artists over the past decade that is among the leaders in Opry appearances each year. And at the age of 79, his voice is still strong. 

There you have it for this weekend. While many will be looking forward to The Super Bowl on Sunday, many of us will be listening to the Friday and Saturday Opry shows this weekend. Both nights look good and I hope everyone enjoys the shows.