The Grand Ole Opry has posted the line ups for the shows this weekend. There is one show on Friday night and one show on Saturday night. The highlight of the weekend will be Vince Gill celebrating his 20th year as an Opry member. It will be a family affair on Saturday night, as Vince will be joined by his wife Amy Grant, and his daughter Jenny Gill. Also appearing on Saturday's show will be The Time Jumpers, who Vince regularly performs with, along with Opry member Martina McBride.
The Friday Night Opry will feature Opry members Diamond Rio, along with guest artists Hunter Hayes, Carter's Chord and Andy Griggs. Bill Anderson is scheduled for both nights, which will be his first Opry appearances since his 50 year anniversary weekend, and Jimmy Dickens is scheduled for both shows, even though he missed the Tuesday Night Opry.
One more mention regarding Vince and his 20 years as an Opry member. I like the fact that the Opry is recognizing anniversary dates for its members. But, they need to do it for all members and not just a selected few. Ideally, I would like to see the Opry do a special mention for a member when they reach the 10, 20 and 25 year mark, and then every 5 years after that until their 50th year. After 50, I would like to see it mentioned every year. It does not have to be a big production, but it would be nice if management came out and gave the artist a little love and praise for a job well done. But, like I said, they need to do it to everyone. Jimmy C Newman reached 55 years last week, and no big deal was made. Be consistent!!
Friday August 12
7:00: Mike Snider(host); Jimmy C Newman; Hunter Hayes
7:30: Jimmy Dickens(host); Jan Howard; Diamond Rio
INTERMISSION
8:15: Bill Anderson(host); Jack Greene; Carter's Chord
8:45: Jean Shepard(host); Jesse McReynolds; Andy Griggs
Saturday August 13
7:00: Jimmy Dickens(host); John Anderson
7:30: Bill Anderson(host); The Whites; Jean Shepard; The Time Jumpers
INTERMISSION
8:15: Emmylou Harris(host); Bobby Osborne & Rocky Top X-Press; Martina McBride; Opry Square Dancers
8:45: Vince Gill(host); Jenny Gill; Amy Grant
I would not be surprised to see Vince on stage earlier than his 8:45 segment. Maybe with The Time Jumpers and maybe with Emmylou. And, I would hope that the Opry does dedicate the shows to Billy Grammer, which I do fully expect.
Now, for those keeping score at home, Friday night there are 12 artists listed, of which 9 are Opry members. Saturday night, of the 12 artists listed, with one slot to fill, 8 are Opry members.
Finally, here is the line up for the Tuesday Night Opry, August 16
7:00: The Whites; Randy Montana
7:30: Jimmy Dickens; Danny Gokey
INTERMISSION
8:15: Pam Tillis; Randy Houser
8:45: Ricky Skaggs; Charlie Daniels Band
Not a bad line up for the Tuesday night show.
I will be in Nashville on Saturday for the Opry show and I will offer my observations after I return, the 1st of next week. Hopefully, it will be a good one.
Nationally recognized independent Grand Ole Opry historian Byron Fay offers news and comments regarding country music's premier show.
Thursday, August 11, 2011
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
Billy Grammer (1925-2011)
The music industry and the Grand Ole Opry lost another legend as Billy Grammer passed away earlier today. Billy was a great Opry member who has been more or less retired in recent years. He was also one of the nicest men there was. The following biography on Billy is from "The Encyclopedia of Country Music", and was written by Walt Trott:
"Gotta Travel On" put singer Billy Wayne Grammer on the musical map. Adapted from a 150-year-old British folk tune, that October 1958 release landed him on a trio of charts: country (#5), pop (#4) and r&b (#14). In addition, the million-selling record was the first hit for Monument Records and its founder, record producer Fred Foster. A 1961 release, "Bonaparte's Retreat" b/w "The Kissing Tree," is estimated to have sold 500,000 units.
The eldest of thirteen children, Grammer began playing guitar at five and from an early age played locally with fiddler father Arch Grammer. Billy Grammer made his radio debut on WJPF-Herrin, Illinois, in 1940. After military service in World War II he worked for Connie B. Gay at WARL-Arlington, Virginia. There Grammer performed on Jimmy Dean's CBS-TV show (1957-58). Grammer joined the Grand Ole Opry in 1959, remaining there until he lost his eyesight.
He designed the Grammer Flat Top Guitar, donating his first model to the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1969. The agile guitarist's sophisticated licks garnered numerous studio sessions with artists such as Eddy Arnold, Louis Armstrong, and Patti Page, and inspired other guitarists, such as Roy Clark. In 1965 Grammer had his own syndicated TV series.
Deeply religious, Grammer delivered the invocation for the Grand Ole Opry House opening on March 16, 1974.
That completes the biography. But I will add a correction. Despite his eyesite problems, Billy did not give up his Opry membership. He would appear at the Opry every once in a while, although after 2006, he did not appear again until he celebrated his 50 year as on Opry member in 2009, and he was always with his wife, Ruth, who usually stood by next to him on stage. (They were married in 1944). Even during his last Opry appearances, on Friday February 27 & Saturday February 28, 2009, when Billy was honored for his 50 years as an Opry member, Billy's voice was great as was his guitar playing. What I remember most about that Friday night, was that Billy did his great hit, "Gotta Travel On", and he extended it into about a 10 minute number. He was very gracious and really enjoyed himself that night.
In honor of Billy Grammer, here is the Opry line up from Friday February 27, when he was honored as a 50 year Opry member.
Friday February 27, 2009
8:00: John Conlee(host); Jimmy C Newman; Mel McDaniel; Del McCoury Band
8:30: Jimmy Dickens(host); Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Jim Ed Brown; Mac Davis
9:00: Diamond Rio(host); Jack Greene; BILLY GRAMMER; Jean Shepard; Bobby Osborne & Rocky Top X-Press
9:30: Riders In The Sky(host); Jan Howard; Mike Snider; Lee Greenwood
God Bless Billy Grammer and his family
"Gotta Travel On" put singer Billy Wayne Grammer on the musical map. Adapted from a 150-year-old British folk tune, that October 1958 release landed him on a trio of charts: country (#5), pop (#4) and r&b (#14). In addition, the million-selling record was the first hit for Monument Records and its founder, record producer Fred Foster. A 1961 release, "Bonaparte's Retreat" b/w "The Kissing Tree," is estimated to have sold 500,000 units.
The eldest of thirteen children, Grammer began playing guitar at five and from an early age played locally with fiddler father Arch Grammer. Billy Grammer made his radio debut on WJPF-Herrin, Illinois, in 1940. After military service in World War II he worked for Connie B. Gay at WARL-Arlington, Virginia. There Grammer performed on Jimmy Dean's CBS-TV show (1957-58). Grammer joined the Grand Ole Opry in 1959, remaining there until he lost his eyesight.
He designed the Grammer Flat Top Guitar, donating his first model to the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1969. The agile guitarist's sophisticated licks garnered numerous studio sessions with artists such as Eddy Arnold, Louis Armstrong, and Patti Page, and inspired other guitarists, such as Roy Clark. In 1965 Grammer had his own syndicated TV series.
Deeply religious, Grammer delivered the invocation for the Grand Ole Opry House opening on March 16, 1974.
That completes the biography. But I will add a correction. Despite his eyesite problems, Billy did not give up his Opry membership. He would appear at the Opry every once in a while, although after 2006, he did not appear again until he celebrated his 50 year as on Opry member in 2009, and he was always with his wife, Ruth, who usually stood by next to him on stage. (They were married in 1944). Even during his last Opry appearances, on Friday February 27 & Saturday February 28, 2009, when Billy was honored for his 50 years as an Opry member, Billy's voice was great as was his guitar playing. What I remember most about that Friday night, was that Billy did his great hit, "Gotta Travel On", and he extended it into about a 10 minute number. He was very gracious and really enjoyed himself that night.
In honor of Billy Grammer, here is the Opry line up from Friday February 27, when he was honored as a 50 year Opry member.
Friday February 27, 2009
8:00: John Conlee(host); Jimmy C Newman; Mel McDaniel; Del McCoury Band
8:30: Jimmy Dickens(host); Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Jim Ed Brown; Mac Davis
9:00: Diamond Rio(host); Jack Greene; BILLY GRAMMER; Jean Shepard; Bobby Osborne & Rocky Top X-Press
9:30: Riders In The Sky(host); Jan Howard; Mike Snider; Lee Greenwood
God Bless Billy Grammer and his family
Monday, August 8, 2011
Osborne Brothers-August 8, 1964
It was 47 years ago today, August 8, 1964, that Bobby and Sonny, the Osborne Brothers joined the Grand Ole Opry. Even though Sonny retired a few years ago, Bobby Osborne, along with his Rocky Top X-Press, continue on the Opry today.
Bobby and Sonny were both born in Hyden, Kentucky, with Bobby being born in 1931 and Sonny in 1937. They began to perform professionally in 1953, while living in Dayton, Ohio. Even at the point, both had lots of professional experience with other groups. Bobby was part of the Lonesome Pine Fiddlers, Jimmy Martin and the Stanley Brothers, before he went to Korea as part of the Korean War. Sonny, while still a teenager, toured with Bill Monroe.
After spending several years touring with other groups, the brothers returned to Dayton in December 1955, and began performing as the Osborne Brothers & Red Allen. Allen was a singer-guitarist, and also in the group was fiddler Art Stamper. After touring clubs in the area, they were signed to MGM records by Wesley Rose, who heard a demo tape of "Ruby" and was impressed by Bobby's pure, high tenor and twin bango arrangement. The record was their first hit and they were on their way.
Red Allen left in 1958 and was replaced by a number of singer-guitarists, including Benny Birchfield, Jean Shepard's future husband. Thanks to the help of Doyle Wilburn, they signed with DECCA records in 1963 and joined the Opry the following year.
The brothers broke the ranks of traditional bluegrass acts by adding steel guitars, a piano and drums to their records. It was through these changes that the Osborne Brothers began seeing their records show up on traditional country charts and their songs being played on traditional country radio stations. Their big career hit was "Rocky Top" in 1968. To this day, it is their biggest and most popular number and is one of the state songs of Tennessee. In 1971, they were voted Best Vocal Group of the Year by the Country Music Association and in 1973, they were the first bluegrass group to play at the White House.
By the mid 1970's, the brothers began to drift back to a more traditional bluegrass sound and since that time, they have been one of the most popular acts on the bluegrass circuit. Even today, Bobby is famous for his three-part harmonies and twin fiddles. In 1994, they were elected to the International Bluegrass Music Association's Hall of Fame, the highest honor in bluegrass.
Sonny retired from performing in 2005, although he is still around Nashville and other parts of the country taking part in music camps, and he can still be seen once in a while, hanging around the Opry.
In honor of the 47th anniversary of the Osborne Brothers joining the cast of the Opry, here is the line-up from August 8, 1964.
7:30: Jimmy C Newman(host); Jean Shepard; Charlie Louvin; Del Wood; Ernie Ashworth
8:00: Bill Anderson(host); OSBORNE BROTHERS; Dottie West; Cousin Jody
8:30: Porter Wagoner(host); Bill Carlisle; Billy Walker; Archie Campbell; Connie Smith
9:00: Roy Acuff(host); Marion Worth
9:30: Hank Snow(host); Leroy Van Dyke; June Carter; Carter Family; The Browns
10:00: Porter Wagoner(host); OSBORNE BROTHERS; Jean Shepard
10:15: Jimmy C Newman(host); Dottie West; Del Wood
10:30: Roy Acuff(host); Bill Anderson; Ernie Ashworth
10:45: Leroy Van Dyke(host); Charlie Louvin
11:00: Hank Snow(host); Marion Worth; Billy Walker; Bill Carlisle
11:30: Marty Robbins(host); Carter Family; Cousin Jody; The Browns; Archie Campbell
Congratulations to the Osborne Brothers!!
Bobby and Sonny were both born in Hyden, Kentucky, with Bobby being born in 1931 and Sonny in 1937. They began to perform professionally in 1953, while living in Dayton, Ohio. Even at the point, both had lots of professional experience with other groups. Bobby was part of the Lonesome Pine Fiddlers, Jimmy Martin and the Stanley Brothers, before he went to Korea as part of the Korean War. Sonny, while still a teenager, toured with Bill Monroe.
After spending several years touring with other groups, the brothers returned to Dayton in December 1955, and began performing as the Osborne Brothers & Red Allen. Allen was a singer-guitarist, and also in the group was fiddler Art Stamper. After touring clubs in the area, they were signed to MGM records by Wesley Rose, who heard a demo tape of "Ruby" and was impressed by Bobby's pure, high tenor and twin bango arrangement. The record was their first hit and they were on their way.
Red Allen left in 1958 and was replaced by a number of singer-guitarists, including Benny Birchfield, Jean Shepard's future husband. Thanks to the help of Doyle Wilburn, they signed with DECCA records in 1963 and joined the Opry the following year.
The brothers broke the ranks of traditional bluegrass acts by adding steel guitars, a piano and drums to their records. It was through these changes that the Osborne Brothers began seeing their records show up on traditional country charts and their songs being played on traditional country radio stations. Their big career hit was "Rocky Top" in 1968. To this day, it is their biggest and most popular number and is one of the state songs of Tennessee. In 1971, they were voted Best Vocal Group of the Year by the Country Music Association and in 1973, they were the first bluegrass group to play at the White House.
By the mid 1970's, the brothers began to drift back to a more traditional bluegrass sound and since that time, they have been one of the most popular acts on the bluegrass circuit. Even today, Bobby is famous for his three-part harmonies and twin fiddles. In 1994, they were elected to the International Bluegrass Music Association's Hall of Fame, the highest honor in bluegrass.
Sonny retired from performing in 2005, although he is still around Nashville and other parts of the country taking part in music camps, and he can still be seen once in a while, hanging around the Opry.
In honor of the 47th anniversary of the Osborne Brothers joining the cast of the Opry, here is the line-up from August 8, 1964.
7:30: Jimmy C Newman(host); Jean Shepard; Charlie Louvin; Del Wood; Ernie Ashworth
8:00: Bill Anderson(host); OSBORNE BROTHERS; Dottie West; Cousin Jody
8:30: Porter Wagoner(host); Bill Carlisle; Billy Walker; Archie Campbell; Connie Smith
9:00: Roy Acuff(host); Marion Worth
9:30: Hank Snow(host); Leroy Van Dyke; June Carter; Carter Family; The Browns
10:00: Porter Wagoner(host); OSBORNE BROTHERS; Jean Shepard
10:15: Jimmy C Newman(host); Dottie West; Del Wood
10:30: Roy Acuff(host); Bill Anderson; Ernie Ashworth
10:45: Leroy Van Dyke(host); Charlie Louvin
11:00: Hank Snow(host); Marion Worth; Billy Walker; Bill Carlisle
11:30: Marty Robbins(host); Carter Family; Cousin Jody; The Browns; Archie Campbell
Congratulations to the Osborne Brothers!!
Sunday, August 7, 2011
Observations From Listening To The Opry Last Night
Last night, the Oak Ridge Boys became the Opry's newest members as they had their official induction. Jeannie Seely hosted the segment and Jimmy Dickens, along with Pete Fisher, did the official honors. I thought it went pretty well. The Oak Ridge Boys seemed very moved by becoming Opry members and they each spoke, giving some heartfelt comments. I think it was Duane Allen that mentioned the Oak Ridge Quartet, and the all night gospel sings that took place at the Ryman Auditorium in 1948. The Opry had a very nice video message from George H. W. Bush, and I know that was appreciated. The audience, and I understand it was pretty much a full house, gave them an outstanding ovation and the Oak's responded in kind. It is great to have them a part of the Opry.
As far as the rest of the show, despite my earlier reservations, I thought it was a good one. Jimmy Dickens hosted the first segment and it was typical Jimmy. He sounded pretty good. Connie Smith was her usual outstanding self and then Jacob Lyda made his Opry debut. He did 2 songs, and I have to tell you he sounds very country. But, I also have to comment that he sounds so much like many of the other male country singers out there today. You could play 10 songs by 10 different new male singers and they would all sound about the same. Of course, that is nothing new in country music as the same was said for all the country male performers who wore hats back in the late 1980's. But I will say that Jacob did sound good and the audience really responded to him.
Jean Shepard hosted the next segment and her guests were Jimmy C Newman and Sam Bush. Jimmy C did 2 great songs including Jean's favorite, "Cajun Stripper." The only thing missing was that this past week, Jimmy celebrated 55 years as an Opry member, joining the show on August 4, 1956. At least from what I heard, nothing was mentioned, which is a shame. 55 years deserves something said. Sam Bush did the great Grandpa Jones song, "8 More Miles To Louisville", and he did a very nice job with it. For his 2nd song, Sam did "The Ballad Of Stringbean." If you have not heard the song, it is a real haunting song that hits you, especially if you knew or remember Stringbean. The one thing I can say about bluegrass songs is that some of them written over the years have a real message to them and so many of them, like this one, are based on true stories.
After the intermission, Jim Ed Brown hosted the 3rd segment, with Jan Howard as his first guest. Good job by both Jim Ed and Jan. He then introduced Troy Cassar-Daley from Australia, who is a big country star in that country. He almost sounded like Merle Haggard, and did one of his songs. I forget what his 2nd song was, and it may have been another Merle number, but he sounded really country. Nice job.
The show then finished up with the Jeannie Seely and Oak Ridge Boys segment.
All in all, it was not a bad show on Saturday night. I just wished they had more artists on.
As far as the rest of the show, despite my earlier reservations, I thought it was a good one. Jimmy Dickens hosted the first segment and it was typical Jimmy. He sounded pretty good. Connie Smith was her usual outstanding self and then Jacob Lyda made his Opry debut. He did 2 songs, and I have to tell you he sounds very country. But, I also have to comment that he sounds so much like many of the other male country singers out there today. You could play 10 songs by 10 different new male singers and they would all sound about the same. Of course, that is nothing new in country music as the same was said for all the country male performers who wore hats back in the late 1980's. But I will say that Jacob did sound good and the audience really responded to him.
Jean Shepard hosted the next segment and her guests were Jimmy C Newman and Sam Bush. Jimmy C did 2 great songs including Jean's favorite, "Cajun Stripper." The only thing missing was that this past week, Jimmy celebrated 55 years as an Opry member, joining the show on August 4, 1956. At least from what I heard, nothing was mentioned, which is a shame. 55 years deserves something said. Sam Bush did the great Grandpa Jones song, "8 More Miles To Louisville", and he did a very nice job with it. For his 2nd song, Sam did "The Ballad Of Stringbean." If you have not heard the song, it is a real haunting song that hits you, especially if you knew or remember Stringbean. The one thing I can say about bluegrass songs is that some of them written over the years have a real message to them and so many of them, like this one, are based on true stories.
After the intermission, Jim Ed Brown hosted the 3rd segment, with Jan Howard as his first guest. Good job by both Jim Ed and Jan. He then introduced Troy Cassar-Daley from Australia, who is a big country star in that country. He almost sounded like Merle Haggard, and did one of his songs. I forget what his 2nd song was, and it may have been another Merle number, but he sounded really country. Nice job.
The show then finished up with the Jeannie Seely and Oak Ridge Boys segment.
All in all, it was not a bad show on Saturday night. I just wished they had more artists on.
Saturday, August 6, 2011
Tuesday Night Opry 8/9
Clint Black will be making another Opry appearance this week as part of the Tuesday Night Opry. This makes 2 for Clint this year after being missing in action for a number of years. Actually, it is good to see Clint back. Newcomers Craig Campbell and Brett Elderidge will also be on the show.
7:00: George Hamilton IV; Craig Campbell
7:30: Jimmy Dickens; Restless Heart
INTERMISSION
8:15: Riders In The Sky; Brett Elderidge
8:45: Jesse McReynolds; Clint Black
7:00: George Hamilton IV; Craig Campbell
7:30: Jimmy Dickens; Restless Heart
INTERMISSION
8:15: Riders In The Sky; Brett Elderidge
8:45: Jesse McReynolds; Clint Black
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Grand Ole Opry Line Up 8/5 & 8/6--Oak Ridge Boys Induction
The Oak Ridge Boys will officially become the Opry's newest members on Saturday night August 6, as the Opry has posted this weekends line ups. And I have to tell you, I am disappointed for a number of reasons.
First, I had expected a pretty special show on Saturday as the Opry usually goes all out when a new member comes on board. Perhaps it is the time of year or some of the members had other commitments, but the Saturday night line up is really nothing special.
Second, there are only 11 artists listed for the Saturday night show. And of those 11 artists, only 7 are Opry members. 66 entertainers are members of the Opry, and only 7 could be scheduled for a show welcoming some new members? And the Friday Night Opry is not much better, as only 8 Opry members are scheduled.
Third, I have to question some of the artists scheduled this weekend. On Saturday night, Jacob Lyda will be making his Opry debut. Who is Jacob Lyda? Just another on the list of new country artists who have a new CD out and, while I am sure he is pretty talented to get a record deal, he will probably be another one that we will never hear from again in a few years. And if you listen to him, he sounds like a cookie-cutter of so many other male artists today. Also on the Opry on Saturday night is Troy Cassar-Daley. Troy is a country artist from Australia, who has had success in that country and is trying to make it in this country. He has written a lot of his material, but he is really an unknown to American audiences.
So there you have it. 11 artists on Saturday night, of which only 7 are Opry members and 2 are basically newcomers or unknown talents. And the Opry manages to get $55.00 for a prime ticket!!! It never stops to amaze me.
Now that I said that, there are a couple of good things this weekend. On Friday night, Gary Morris will be making an Opry appearance. He had a nice series of hit records in the 1980's and I always thought he had a fine voice. Also, Shelley Skidmore will be making another Opry appearance. And on Saturday night, Sam Bush will return to the Opry stage. And not to forget the main event, the Oak Ridge Boys will be inducted as Opry members. As I said before, I really believe the Oak Ridge Boys will be great Opry members. They have fine crowd appeal and I really believe that they understand what the Opry is all about. Congratulations to the Boys!!!
Here are the line ups for this weekend:
Friday August 5
7:00: Jim Ed Brown(host); Jesse McReynolds; Shelly Skidmore
7:30: Jimmy Dickens(host); Jimmy C Newman; Bucky Covington
INTERMISSION
8:15: George Hamilton IV(host); Jack Greene; Jamie O'Neal
8:45: Riders In The Sky(host); Connie Smith; Gary Morris
Saturday August 6
7:00: Jimmy Dickens(host); Connie Smith; Jacob Lyda
7:30: Jean Shepard(host); Jimmy C Newman; Sam Bush
INTERMISSION
8:15: Jim Ed Brown(host); Jan Howard; Troy Cassar-Daley; Opry Square Dancers
8:45: Jeannie Seely(host); Oak Ridge Boys
Next Saturday night, Vince Gill will be celebrating his 20 year as an Opry member. It should be a great night and the show is already sold-out.
Again, congratulations to the Oak Ridge Boys!!!
First, I had expected a pretty special show on Saturday as the Opry usually goes all out when a new member comes on board. Perhaps it is the time of year or some of the members had other commitments, but the Saturday night line up is really nothing special.
Second, there are only 11 artists listed for the Saturday night show. And of those 11 artists, only 7 are Opry members. 66 entertainers are members of the Opry, and only 7 could be scheduled for a show welcoming some new members? And the Friday Night Opry is not much better, as only 8 Opry members are scheduled.
Third, I have to question some of the artists scheduled this weekend. On Saturday night, Jacob Lyda will be making his Opry debut. Who is Jacob Lyda? Just another on the list of new country artists who have a new CD out and, while I am sure he is pretty talented to get a record deal, he will probably be another one that we will never hear from again in a few years. And if you listen to him, he sounds like a cookie-cutter of so many other male artists today. Also on the Opry on Saturday night is Troy Cassar-Daley. Troy is a country artist from Australia, who has had success in that country and is trying to make it in this country. He has written a lot of his material, but he is really an unknown to American audiences.
So there you have it. 11 artists on Saturday night, of which only 7 are Opry members and 2 are basically newcomers or unknown talents. And the Opry manages to get $55.00 for a prime ticket!!! It never stops to amaze me.
Now that I said that, there are a couple of good things this weekend. On Friday night, Gary Morris will be making an Opry appearance. He had a nice series of hit records in the 1980's and I always thought he had a fine voice. Also, Shelley Skidmore will be making another Opry appearance. And on Saturday night, Sam Bush will return to the Opry stage. And not to forget the main event, the Oak Ridge Boys will be inducted as Opry members. As I said before, I really believe the Oak Ridge Boys will be great Opry members. They have fine crowd appeal and I really believe that they understand what the Opry is all about. Congratulations to the Boys!!!
Here are the line ups for this weekend:
Friday August 5
7:00: Jim Ed Brown(host); Jesse McReynolds; Shelly Skidmore
7:30: Jimmy Dickens(host); Jimmy C Newman; Bucky Covington
INTERMISSION
8:15: George Hamilton IV(host); Jack Greene; Jamie O'Neal
8:45: Riders In The Sky(host); Connie Smith; Gary Morris
Saturday August 6
7:00: Jimmy Dickens(host); Connie Smith; Jacob Lyda
7:30: Jean Shepard(host); Jimmy C Newman; Sam Bush
INTERMISSION
8:15: Jim Ed Brown(host); Jan Howard; Troy Cassar-Daley; Opry Square Dancers
8:45: Jeannie Seely(host); Oak Ridge Boys
Next Saturday night, Vince Gill will be celebrating his 20 year as an Opry member. It should be a great night and the show is already sold-out.
Again, congratulations to the Oak Ridge Boys!!!
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
Skeeter Davis
I just wanted to take a moment and look back at the career of Mary Frances Penick, otherwise known as Skeeter Davis, who became a member of the Grand Ole Opry on August 4, 1959. Had she lived, Skeeter would be celebrating 52 years as an Opry member.
Skeeter was born in Dry Ridge, Kentucky on December 30, 1931, in the middle of the depression. Her grandfather gave her the nickname of Skeeter. Skeeter grew up listening to the Grand Ole Opry and would sing along to the singers she heard on the radio. While in high school, her best friend was Betty Jack Davis, who was no relation to Skeeter. The two formed a duo called the Davis Sisters.
After spending some time doing local radio and television, RCA gave the duo a recording contract in 1952. Their debut record was a hit, "I Forgot More Than You'll Ever Know" and would be on the charts for six months. However, as the record was moving on the charts, Skeeter and Betty Jack were involved in a car accident that resulted in the death of Betty Jack.
Skeeter continued as a solo artist and began to establish her own career. Chet Atkins was her producer, and together they had a stream of top 10 hits, beginning in 1959 with, "Set Him Free." The one thing Chet did in the recordings that helped her career was that he "double-tracked" her recordings, to make it her records sound like they were still Davis Sisters duets. You career record of course was, "The End of the World".
After joining the Opry, Skeeter married Ralph Emery. Both Skeeter and Ralph have written autobiographies over the years detailing the marriage. Both came out of the marriage with bitter feelings toward each other, The marriage ended in 1964.
Skeeter was known for her very deep and public religious views and in 1973, she became involved in a very public dispute with the Opry over her support on the radio show of some "Jesus people", who had been arrested at a Nashville shopping center. The Opry suspended Skeeter from the Opry. The suspension lasted a little more than a year, after which the Opry, after repeated requests from fans, allowed her to rejoin the show. Skeeter was under suspension at the time the Opry moved from the Ryman Auditorium to the new Opry House, thus she did not appear on the Opry on the night of the 1st performance at the new Opry House.
Her last hits were in the early 1970's, but even though she developed some serious health issues, including breast cancer and ultimately that cancer spread through her entire body, she continued to carry on and perform at the Opry. She was noted for her colorful outfits and skirts and later, her headbands.
Skeeter was known through out the world and she details her career in her autobiography, "Bus Fare to Kentucky."
Skeeter passed away on September19, 2004, after being under hospice care. She died single and after her death, many of her personal items were auctioned off and sold.
Skeeter's last show that I have listed was in 2001, and during those final years when she was active on the Opry, he was usually only scheduled on the 1st show on Saturday night, and mostly within the 1st two segments of the show. Skeeter's last scheduled Opry show was on Saturday February 3, 2001, when she was scheduled for the shows that night. In honor of Skeeter Davis, here is the line up from those 2 shows:
Saturday February 3, 2001
6:30: Porter Wagoner(host); The Whites; Bill Carlisle; Jim & Jesse; Jack Greene
7:00: Jean Shepard(host); Wilkinsons; Billy Walker; Hal Ketchum; Peasall Sisters; Alison Krauss & Union Station; Emmylou Harris
8:00: Jeannie Seely(host); SKEETER DAVIS; Mike Snider; Holly Dunn; Opry Squaredance Band; Melvin Sloan Dancers
8:30: Jimmy Dickens(host); Wilma Lee Cooper; Del Reeves; Vince Gill
9:30: Porter Wagoner(host); The Whites; SKEETER DAVIS; Peasall Sisters; Vince Gill
10:00: Jimmy Dickens(host); Wilma Lee Cooper; Billy Walker; Alison Krauss & Union Station
10:30: Jimmy C Newman(host); Osborne Brothers; Wilkinsons; Opry Squaredance Band; Melvin Sloan Dancers
11:00: Jeannie Seely(host); Stonewall Jackson; Mike Snider; Emmylou Harris
11:30: George Hamilton IV(host); Charlie Walker; Hal Ketchum
Just a side note: This show was only 10 years ago. But look at the list of those we have lost from that show, or are no longer a part of the Opry: Porter Wagoner; Bill Carlisle; Jim McReynolds; Billy Walker; Skeeter Davis; Holly Dunn; Melvin Sloan; Wilma Lee Cooper; Del Reeves; Sonny Osborne; Charlie Walker. That is quite a number.
In my final thoughts, Skeeter Davis was one of those Opry members who either liked or you did not. Personally, I did not care for her vocal style or songs. That is just me. But, I also admire her for the way she carried on and continued to do the Opry during her personal illness. Skeeter did not live the easiest life. She had three marriages and other issues. But, I still appreciate her talents as a member of the Opry.
Skeeter was born in Dry Ridge, Kentucky on December 30, 1931, in the middle of the depression. Her grandfather gave her the nickname of Skeeter. Skeeter grew up listening to the Grand Ole Opry and would sing along to the singers she heard on the radio. While in high school, her best friend was Betty Jack Davis, who was no relation to Skeeter. The two formed a duo called the Davis Sisters.
After spending some time doing local radio and television, RCA gave the duo a recording contract in 1952. Their debut record was a hit, "I Forgot More Than You'll Ever Know" and would be on the charts for six months. However, as the record was moving on the charts, Skeeter and Betty Jack were involved in a car accident that resulted in the death of Betty Jack.
Skeeter continued as a solo artist and began to establish her own career. Chet Atkins was her producer, and together they had a stream of top 10 hits, beginning in 1959 with, "Set Him Free." The one thing Chet did in the recordings that helped her career was that he "double-tracked" her recordings, to make it her records sound like they were still Davis Sisters duets. You career record of course was, "The End of the World".
After joining the Opry, Skeeter married Ralph Emery. Both Skeeter and Ralph have written autobiographies over the years detailing the marriage. Both came out of the marriage with bitter feelings toward each other, The marriage ended in 1964.
Skeeter was known for her very deep and public religious views and in 1973, she became involved in a very public dispute with the Opry over her support on the radio show of some "Jesus people", who had been arrested at a Nashville shopping center. The Opry suspended Skeeter from the Opry. The suspension lasted a little more than a year, after which the Opry, after repeated requests from fans, allowed her to rejoin the show. Skeeter was under suspension at the time the Opry moved from the Ryman Auditorium to the new Opry House, thus she did not appear on the Opry on the night of the 1st performance at the new Opry House.
Her last hits were in the early 1970's, but even though she developed some serious health issues, including breast cancer and ultimately that cancer spread through her entire body, she continued to carry on and perform at the Opry. She was noted for her colorful outfits and skirts and later, her headbands.
Skeeter was known through out the world and she details her career in her autobiography, "Bus Fare to Kentucky."
Skeeter passed away on September19, 2004, after being under hospice care. She died single and after her death, many of her personal items were auctioned off and sold.
Skeeter's last show that I have listed was in 2001, and during those final years when she was active on the Opry, he was usually only scheduled on the 1st show on Saturday night, and mostly within the 1st two segments of the show. Skeeter's last scheduled Opry show was on Saturday February 3, 2001, when she was scheduled for the shows that night. In honor of Skeeter Davis, here is the line up from those 2 shows:
Saturday February 3, 2001
6:30: Porter Wagoner(host); The Whites; Bill Carlisle; Jim & Jesse; Jack Greene
7:00: Jean Shepard(host); Wilkinsons; Billy Walker; Hal Ketchum; Peasall Sisters; Alison Krauss & Union Station; Emmylou Harris
8:00: Jeannie Seely(host); SKEETER DAVIS; Mike Snider; Holly Dunn; Opry Squaredance Band; Melvin Sloan Dancers
8:30: Jimmy Dickens(host); Wilma Lee Cooper; Del Reeves; Vince Gill
9:30: Porter Wagoner(host); The Whites; SKEETER DAVIS; Peasall Sisters; Vince Gill
10:00: Jimmy Dickens(host); Wilma Lee Cooper; Billy Walker; Alison Krauss & Union Station
10:30: Jimmy C Newman(host); Osborne Brothers; Wilkinsons; Opry Squaredance Band; Melvin Sloan Dancers
11:00: Jeannie Seely(host); Stonewall Jackson; Mike Snider; Emmylou Harris
11:30: George Hamilton IV(host); Charlie Walker; Hal Ketchum
Just a side note: This show was only 10 years ago. But look at the list of those we have lost from that show, or are no longer a part of the Opry: Porter Wagoner; Bill Carlisle; Jim McReynolds; Billy Walker; Skeeter Davis; Holly Dunn; Melvin Sloan; Wilma Lee Cooper; Del Reeves; Sonny Osborne; Charlie Walker. That is quite a number.
In my final thoughts, Skeeter Davis was one of those Opry members who either liked or you did not. Personally, I did not care for her vocal style or songs. That is just me. But, I also admire her for the way she carried on and continued to do the Opry during her personal illness. Skeeter did not live the easiest life. She had three marriages and other issues. But, I still appreciate her talents as a member of the Opry.
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