Grand Ole Opry 9/16 & 9/17

The Grand Ole Opry has posted the line-ups for the shows this weekend, and I want to start out out by offering my congratulations and thanks to Steve Buchanan, Pete Fisher, and the rest of the Grand Ole Opry's management. Thanks to their great effort and hard work, they were able to get three Grand Ole Opry members to perform this coming Saturday night! Yep, that is correct. Out of 62 members, only Mike Snider, The Whites and Bobby Osborne are scheduled. As you would expect with just three members appearing, the show will not have the traditional segments with hosts. Instead, the format will be much like the Tuesday and Wednesday shows with eight acts broken into 15 minute segments for each one. Hopefully, between now and Saturday night, the line-up will get filled out, but I am not holding out much hope. 

As to the rest of the Saturday night line-up, Craig Wayne Boyd, Mary Sarah, Mark Wills, T. Graham Brown and Charles Esten fill out the show. I think everyone can agree that is a pretty thin line-up and I have to question whether it is worth the ticket price that is being charged. I know some weeks are better at the Opry than others; this is one of those weeks. 

The Friday Night Opry will feature Opry members Riders In The Sky, Connie Smith, Jesse McReynolds, along with Mike Snider and The Whites. Guest artists include Daryle Singletary, Kelleigh Bannen, Darryl Worley, Tara Thompson, Mark Wills, Aaron Lewis and Mountain Heart. At least this guess them a full line-up for Friday night. 

Friday September 16
7:00: Riders In The Sky (host); Daryle Singletary; Jesse McReynolds
7:30: Mike Snider (host); Kelleigh Bannen; Darryl Worley
Intermission
8:15: The Whites (host); Tara Thompson; Mark Wills
8:45: Connie Smith (host); Aaron Lewis; Mountain Faith

Saturday September 17
7:00: Mike Snider; Craig Wayne Boyd
7:30: Mary Sarah; Mark Wills
Intermission
8:15: The Whites; T. Graham Brown; Opry Square Dancers
8:45: Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Charles Esten

And now, here is the posted Grand Ole Opry line-up from five years ago, the weekend of September 16 & 17, 2011:

Friday September 16
7:00: John Conlee (host); Jeannie Seely; Jim Lauderdale
7:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); George Hamilton IV; Dailey & Vincent
Intermission
8:15: Pam Tillis (host); Riders In The Sky; Gene Watson
8:45: Mike Snider (host); The Whites; Montgomery Gentry

Saturday September 17
7:00: Pam Tillis (host); Jimmy C Newman; Jean Shepard
7:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); Billy Yates; Will Hoge
Intermission
8:15: Steve Wariner (host); Kristin Chenoweth; Opry Square Dancers
8:45: Ricky Skaggs (host); Jesse McReynolds; Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; The Boxcars

Now from ten years ago, the weekend of September 15 & 16, 2006: 

Friday September 15
8:00: Riders In The Sky (host); John Conlee; Jimmy Wayne
8:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Mandy Barnett
9:00: Bill Anderson (host); T. Bubba Bechtol; Buddy Jewell
9:30: Diamond Rio (host); Jean Shepard; Connie Smith

Saturday September 16
1st show
6:30: Bill Anderson (host); Connie Smith; Jamey Johnson
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Jimmy C Newman; Jim Ed Brown; Erika Jo
7:30: Hal Ketchum (host); T. Bubba Bechtol; Suzy Bogguss
8:00: Riders In The Sky (host); Charlie Walker; Heartland; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Trace Adkins (host); Jack Greene; Mandy Barnett

2nd show
9:30: Bill Anderson (host); Jimmy C Newman; Jamey Johnson
10:00: Trace Adkins (host); Jim Ed Brown; Erika Jo
10:30: Hal Ketchum (host); Charlie Louvin; Suzy Bogguss; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Jeannie Seely (host); T. Bubba Bechtol; Heartland
11:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Jack Greene; Mandy Barnett

Finally going back twenty five years ago, Saturday September 14, 1991:

1st show
6:30: Boxcar Willie (host); Justin Tubb
6:45: Jack Greene; Charlie Louvin
7:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Skeeter Davis; Stu Phillips; Vic Willis Trio
7:30: 4 Guys (host); Hank Locklin; Mac Wiseman
8:00: Roy Acuff (host); The Whites; Charlie Walker; Opry Square Dance Band; Stoney Mountain Cloggers
8:30: Hank Snow (host); Ray Pillow; Wilma Lee Cooper; Jeannie Seely; Mike Snider

2nd show
9:30: Porter Wagoner (host); 4 Guys; Charlie Louvin; Bill Carlisle; Ray Pillow
10:00: Boxcar Willie (host); Skeeter Davis
10:15: Roy Acuff (host); Vic Willis Trio
10:30: Jack Greene (host); Mac Wiseman; Roger Miller
10:45: Roy Drusky (host); Stu Phillips; Opry Square Dance Band; Stoney Mountain Cloggers
11:00: Hank Snow (host); The Whites; Justin Tubb; Mike Snider
11:30: Charlie Walker (host); Jeannie Seely; Hank Locklin; Johnny Russell

For the featured line-up this week, it was 49 years ago this weekend, Saturday September 16, 1967 that Jeannie Seely became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. 

Jeannie Seely's mother said that Jeannie was just four years old when she learned to stretch up, turn the knob on her family's big console radio to 650 WSM and keep it there. Jeannie is still on the dial at 650 WSM, performing regularly on the stage of the Grand Ole Opry. 

By age 11, she was performing on a weekly radio show in nearby Meadville, Pennsylvania, and a few years later was on TV in Erie. Years of playing auditoriums, small clubs, and country music parks followed. She moved to California and worked as a secretary with Liberty and Imperial Records in Hollywood before coming to Nashville in 1965 at the urging of Opry member Dottie West. "I didn't know enough to go there yet," Jeannie remembers telling Dottie. The more experienced singer responded, "Jeannie, that's where you go to learn." 

A recording contract with Monument Records gave Jeannie her first hit in 1966 with "Don't Touch Me," which went to the top of the charts and earned her a Grammy Award. One year later, the singer who became famous as "Miss Country Soul" fulfilled her childhood dream of becoming a member of the Opry cast. More hits followed, including "I'll Love You More (Than You Need)," "Can I Sleep in Your Arms," and "Lucky Ladies." Jeannie briefly worked as duet partner of Porter Wagoner and had a successful touring and recording partnership with fellow Opry member Jack Greene resulting in multiple award nominations and such hits as the Top 10 single "Wish I Didn't Have to Miss You." Jeannie also is a successful songwriter, having written Faron Young's No. 1 hit, "Leavin' and Sayin' Goodbye," a BMI award-winner. She also had songs cut by Dottie West, Connie Smith, Willie Nelson, and Ray Price.

Known for her plainspoken ways and sharp sense of humor, Jeannie published a book of witticisms, "Pieces of a Puzzled Mind," in 1989. She continues to tour, record, and work on new stage material, preferably for the Opry stage she calls home.
(Courtesy Grand Ole Opry Family Album 90th Anniversary)

And now, in honor of Jeannie Seely's 49th anniversary as a member of the Grand Ole Opry, here is the running order from Saturday September 16, 1967, the night Jeannie became a member of the Grand Ole Opry: 

6:30: Mrs. Grissoms
Ernie Ashworth (host): A Week in the County Jail
Paul Moore: Cold, Cold Heart
Spider Wilson: Wildwood Flower
Ernie Ashworth: My Love for You

6:45: Rudy's
George Hamilton IV (host): Break My Mind
Jerri Lynn: Ain't Had No Lovin'
Jerry Whitehurst: Hey, Good Looking
George Hamilton IV: The Urge for Going

7:00: Luzianne
Bill Anderson (host): Get While the Getting's Good
4 Guys: Swing Down, Chariot
Tammy Wynette: You Good Girl's Gonna Go Bad
Bill Anderson: No One's Gonna Hurt You Anymore
Duke of Paducah: Four-Leaf Clover
4 Guys: Walking in the Sunshine
Bill Anderson: I Love You Drops

7:30: Standard Candy
Billy Grammer (host): Mabel, You Have Been A Friend to Me
Willis Brothers: A 6 Ft 2 by 4
Stringbean: Gonna Make Myself A Name
Margie Bowes: Man Around the House
Billy Grammer: The Real Thing
Harold Weakley: Since Never
Billy Grammer: Pennsylvania Polka
Willis Brothers: Chattanooga Shoe Shine Box
Billy Grammer: Gotta Travel On

8:00: Martha White
Wilburn Brothers (host): It's Another World
Justin Tubb: As Long As There's A Sunday
Dottie West: Like A Fool
Crook Brothers: Sally Goodin
Wilburn Brothers: You're Standing in the Way
Pete Sayers: Little Darling Pal of Mine
Justin Tubb & Dottie West: Love Is No Excuse
Dottie West: Paper Mansions

8:30: Stephens
Roy Drusky (host): Rainbows & Roses
Grandpa Jones: Mountain Dew
Hugh X Lewis: You're So Cold I'm Turning Blue
Jeannie Seely: Don't Touch Me
Roy Drusky: White Lightning Express
Opry Staff Band: Speeding West
Grandpa Jones: Everything Had Going For Me is Gone
Jeannie Seely: Don't You Every Get Tired of Hurting Me
Roy Drusky: Anymore

9:30: Kellogg's
Tex Ritter (host): Boll Weevil
Willis Brothers: Big Daddy's Alabamy Bound
Dottie West: Funny, Familiar, Forgotten Feelings
Hank Williams, Jr: There'll Be No Teardrops Tonight/Wedding Bells/Mansion on the Hill/Half as Much/Lovesick Blues
Tex Ritter: Working Man's Prayer
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Bill Cheatham

10:00: Schick
Billy Grammer (host): Gotta Travel On
Stringbean: Gonna Make Myself a Name
Margie Bowes: Making Believe
Billy Grammer: Mabel, You Have Been A Friend to Me

10:15: Pure
Roy Drusky (host): Peel Me A Nanner
Grandpa Jones: Dear Old Sunny South By the Sea
George Hamilton IV: Break My Mind
Roy Drusky: New Lips

10:30: Buckley's
Ernie Ashworth (host): My Love For You
Willis Brothers: Give Me 40 Acres
Ernie Ashworth: Sad Face
Willis Brothers: Bob/God Walks These Hills With Me

10:45: Newport
Wilburn Brothers (host): Goody, Goody, Gumdrop
Justin Tubb: Take A Letter Miss Gray
Crook Brothers: Black Mountain Rag
Wilburn Brothers: Knoxville Girl

11:00: Coca-Cola
Tex Ritter (host): Green Grow the Lilacs
4 Guys: Shenandoah
Jeannie Seely: I Fall to Pieces
Hank Williams, Jr: Long Gone Lonesome Blues/(?)/Can't Take It/I'm In No Condition to Try to Love Again/I'm Nobody's Child
Tex Ritter: Just Beyond the Moon
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Gray Eagle
Jeannie Seely: Darling, Are You Ever Coming Home
Tex Ritter: I Dreamed of A Hillbilly Heaven

11:30: Lava
Bob Luman (host): Let's Think About Living
Osborne Brothers: Roll, Muddy River
Jerry Greene: Turn the World Around the Other Way
Tammy Wynette: I Don't Wanna Play House
Bob Luman: You Can Take the Boy From the Country
Harold Weakley: Since Never
Osborne Brothers: Making Plans
Bob Luman: Memphis

Congratulations again to Jeannie Seely on her 49th anniversary as a member of the Grand Ole Opry!! And as always, I hope everyone enjoys the Opry this weekend. 

Tuesday Night Opry 9/13

Before taking a few days off to spend some vacation time in Gatlinburg, I thought I would post the Tuesday Night Opry line-up for September 13: 

7:00: John Conlee; Clare Dunn
7:30: Wade Hayes, Old Dominion
Intermission
8:15: Randy Owen; Ricky Skaggs
8:45: Drake White; Montgomery Gentry

Meanwhile, the only new item regarding the Opry's birthday bash, just one month away, is that the Saturday show now includes The Secret Sisters in addition to Mo Pitney. Nothing against either act, and they are both actually pretty good, but so far no Opry members or what I would call "star" attractions. Maybe an announcement this week. With 2 shows on Saturday night, they will have to come up with something a little better than this. 

Meanwhile the Opry Country Classics show for that Thursday night includes Connie Smith, Larry Gatlin & The Gatlin Brothers, Rhonda Vincent, Gene Watson and William Michael Morgan. Not a bad group of names at all. 

Grand Ole Opry 9/9 & 9/10

Before getting into the Grand Ole Opry line-ups for this weekend, an update on Loretta Lynn. If you have not heard, Loretta fell last weekend at her home and was forced to cancel an appearance at her ranch last Saturday night. She was taken to the hospital, checked out and everything was reported as ok. Today it was announced that Loretta has to cancel a number of upcoming concerts, including an appearance scheduled for next Friday night at the Opry. Apparently she needs to have some minor surgery. Her spokesperson specifically stated in the press release, that contrary to rumors, Loretta did not suffer a broken hip or other broken bones. Here is hoping for a full recovery for Loretta and our thoughts are with her as she has her upcoming surgery. While it is stated as minor surgery, there is nothing minor when you are over 80 years in age. 

As to the Opry this weekend, the line-ups are up and while there is nothing outstanding scheduled for this weekend, the two shows are both pretty solid. Grand Ole Opry members scheduled for both nights include Connie Smith, Mike Snider (who will be hosting segments each night), and The Whites. On Friday night, they will be joined by members Jesse McReynolds and Riders In The Sky, while on Saturday, Jeannie Seely, Bill Anderson and Bobby Osborne will be joining the group. That all adds up to 5 Opry members on Friday and 6 on Saturday. 

Friday night as a very solid list of guest artists scheduled, with Billy Ray Cyrus leading the way. He will be joined by Crystal Gayle, who should have been an Opry member a long time ago, Glen's daughter, Ashley Campbell, Restless Heart, Jason Crabb, Kristian Bush, and making his Grand Ole Opry debut, Sean McConnell. 

Saturday night, it will be Maggie Rose, Sara Haze, Ben Caver, John Berry, JT Hodges and Jimmy Wayne scheduled. While a solid list, the edge this weekend goes to the Friday night show. 

Friday September 9
7:00: Connie Smith (host); Ashley Campbell; Restless Heart
7:30: Mike Snider (host); Jason Crabb; Kristian Bush
Intermission
8:15: The Whites (host); Jesse McReynolds; Billy Ray Cyrus
8:45: Riders In The Sky (host); Sean McConnell; Crystal Gayle

Saturday September 10
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Maggie Rose; The Whites
7:30: Mike Snider (host); Sara Haze & Ben Caver; John Berry
Intermission
8:15: Connie Smith (host); JT Hodges; Opry Square Dancers
8:45: Bill Anderson (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Jimmy Wayne

As mentioned, for Sean McConnell, this will be his Grand Ole Opry debut. Sean has been around for a while and has released 10 independent albums. Currently he is touring in support of his new album that was released in July on Rounder Records. He originally is from Boston, before moving with his family to Georgia and then to Tennessee where he attended MTSU as music business student. Besides recording his own music, he also has been writing for Warner/Chappell music and has had songs recorded by Brothers Osborne, Martina McBride, Tim McGraw, Rascal Flatts, and his music has been a part of the "Nashville" program. Rather than country, his music seems to fall into Americana. 

And now, here is the posted Grand Ole Opry line-up from five years ago, the weekend of September 9 & 10, 2011:

Friday September 9
7:00: Bill Anderson (host); Connie Smith; The Black Lillies
7:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jack Greene; Collin Raye
Intermission
8:15: Jeannie Seely (host); The Whites; The McClymonts
8:45: Riders In The Sky (host); Jesse McReynolds; Jim Ed Brown; Exile

Saturday September 10
7:00: The Whites (host); Jimmy C Newman; Randy Montana
7:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Mandy Barnett
Intermission
8:15: Ray Pillow (host); Stonewall Jackson; Russell Moore & III Tyme Out; Opry Square Dancers
8:45: Mike Snider (host); Connie Smith; Danny Gokey

Now from ten years ago, the weekend of September 8 & 9, 2006:

Friday September 8
8:00: Jim Ed Brown (host); The Whites; Julie Roberts
8:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Connie Smith; Del McCoury Band
9:00: Bill Anderson (host); Jean Shepard; Buddy Jewell
9:30: John Conlee (host); Larry Stephenson Band; Andy Griggs

Saturday September 9
1st show
6:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); The Whites; Elizabeth Cook
7:00: Jean Shepard (host); Jimmy C Newman; Del McCoury Band
7:30: George Hamilton IV (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Mark McGuinn
8:00: Jim Ed Brown (host); Jack Greene; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Bill Anderson (host); Connie Smith; John Berry

2nd show
9:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); The Whites; Elizabeth Cook
10:00: Jean Shepard (host); Jimmy C Newman; Del McCoury Band
10:30: George Hamilton IV (host); Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Mark McGuinn; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Bill Anderson (host); Connie Smith
11:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); Ray Pillow; Jack Greene; John Berry

Finally from twenty-five years ago, Saturday September 7, 1991:

1st show
6:30: Del Reeves (host); Johnny Russell
6:45: Billy Walker (host); Skeeter Davis
7:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Jimmy C Newman; Wilma Lee Cooper; Rob Crosby
7:30: Hank Snow (host); Linda Davis; Joe Diffie
8:00: Roy Acuff (host); Jean Shepard; Bill Carlisle; Opry Square Dance Band; Melvin Sloan Dancers
8:30: Charlie Walker (host); The Whites; Jeannie Seely; Larry Boone

2nd show
9:30: Porter Wagoner (host); Teddy Wilburn; Ernie Ashworth; Rob Crosby
10:00: Del Reeves (host); Billy Walker
10:15: Roy Acuff (host); Skeeter Davis
10:30: Ray Pillow (host); Joe Diffie
10:45: Jimmy C Newman (host); Linda Davis; Opry Square Dance Band; Melvin Sloan Dancers
11:00: Hank Snow (host); Jean Shepard; The Whites; Justin Tubb; Larry Boone
11:30: Charlie Walker (host); Jeannie Seely; Bill Carlisle; Johnny Russell

For the featured line-up this week, it was on Saturday September 9, 1989 that Grand Ole Opry member Del Wood made her final appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. 

The following is the biographical information about Del that was printed in one of the later editions of the Grand Ole Opry WSM Picture History Book:

During the past ten years, Nashville has built up a reputation for itself as Music City, USA, by virtue of the steady stream of hits that pour from its studios over the airwaves and into record stores across America. Most people would therefore be surprised to hear that the first gold record cut in Nashville was recorded more than 25 years ago and that Country Song Round-up magazine still hails it as the biggest selling instrumental of all time. That record was "Down Yonder" and the artist who recorded it was pianist Del Wood. 

Although she has been featured on the Grand Ole Opry since 1953, Del does not consider herself primarily a country-style pianist. "I'm still in the category of ragtime playing," she points out. "Critics have called my playing 'honky-tonk,' 'jazzy country,' and 'dixie pop,' but I personally do not look for new labels. It's just self-expression for me." In analyzing her keyboard style, Del observes, "I've found no one who can duplicate my exact style. I am not big on chords, except for bounce rhythm arrangement: I would much rather rely on a lot of left-hand bass runs which I counter with a great deal of fast melody playing on the high right-hand keys. I use every key on the piano in producing the fullest and most diversified sound I can possibly create."

Del, the only native of Nashville to have earned a regular spot on the Grand Ole Opry, traces her musical roots back to her childhood. "My folks bought me a piano for my fifth birthday," she recalls, "and had me start attending weekly lessons with a private teacher. I studied formally from the time I was five until I was seventeen and I practiced the classics for many years, although bluegrass and mountain music were parts of my heritage since I was born and raised in Nashville. For example, the late Moon Mulligan was a performer I greatly admired; he was one of the first country keyboard performers, and he paved the way for later artists like Floyd Cramer and me. I also enjoyed listening to recordings by Joe 'Fingers' Carr, but of course, that goes back a few years. As you can see, liking classical music does not exclude you from enjoying country music as well."

Del (her real name is Adelaide Hazelwood) has been dubbed the "Queen of the Ivories" by her co-stars at the Opry, and is frequently named "Best Female Instrumentalist" by music polls. "Down Yonder" was only one of several big records for Del. With over twenty albums and sixty singles to her credit, her fame has spread internationally. She has appeared on numerous network TV shows, and spent a ten week tour of Viet Nam as the featured act in a group sent to entertain servicemen in 1968. In 1984, Del appeared in the movie "Rhinestone" with Dolly Parton and Sylvester Stallone. Del was cast as a piano player, naturally, with the Wild Possum Band. Del spends her spare time canning jams, jellies, and preserves for which she was won many cooking awards. She also enjoys gardening and flower arranging, and spending enjoyable moments with son Wesley. 
(From the Grand Ole Opry WSM Picture History Book)

Polly Adelaide Hendricks Hazelwood, known professionally as Del Wood, was born on February 22, 1920 in Nashville, Tennessee and spent her entire life living in the Nashville area. Her hit "Down Yonder" which was released in 1951, sold over one million copies and was certified as a gold record. The success of the recording led to her first appearance on the Grand Ole Opry, which took place in February 1952. By 1953, she was an Opry member. While she never again matched the commercial success of "Down Yonder" Del had a very successful recording career though the 1960s. On October 3, 1989, Del passed away at the age of 69 after suffering a stroke. 

Here is the running order from Saturday September 9, 1989, the last night that Del Wood appeared on the Grand Ole Opry: 

1st show
6:30: Bonanza
Stonewall Jackson (host): Me & You & A Dog Named Boo
Jeannie Seely: I'll Be Around, When It's Over
Stonewall Jackson: Muddy Water

6:45: Rudy's
Bill Anderson (host): Before I Met You
Stu Phillips: Blue Canadian Rockies
Bill Anderson: A World of Make Believe

7:00: Shoney's
Porter Wagoner (host): On A Highway Headed South
Del Reeves: Bad News
Ray Pillow: I Guess He Knows Something I Don't Know
Dottie West: Are You Happy Baby/Together Again
Porter Wagoner: Forty Miles From Poplar Bluff

7:30: Standard Candy
4 Guys (host): Baby, You Look Good to me Tonight
Del Wood: Down Yonder
Jean Shepard: Slippin' Away
Charley Pride: Amy's Eyes/Mountain of Love/There Goes My Everything
4 Guys: My Special Angel

8:00: Martha White
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Connie Smith: I've Got My Baby on My Mind/Once A Day
Jimmy C Newman: La Cajun Band/Cajun Stripper
Opry Square Dance Band/Melvin Sloan Dancers: Patti on the Turnpike
Roy Acuff: Once More

8:30: Music Valley Drive
Hank Snow (host): Mama Tried
Skeeter Davis: I Ain't Never
Charlie Louvin: The Precious Jewel
Ernie Ashworth: There's No Place I'd Rather Be Tonight
Bill Carlisle: Leave That Liar Alone
Hank Snow: I'm Not At All Sorry For You

2nd show
9:30: Dollar General
Porter Wagoner (host): (?)
Wilma Lee Cooper: I'm Picking Up the Pieces
Stu Phillips: If Loving You Means Anything
Dottie West: Country Sunshine
Ray Pillow: The Kind of Love I Can't Forget
Porter Wagoner: What Ain't To Be Just Might Happen/Y'All Come

10:00: Little Debbie
Bill Anderson (host): Son of the South
Jeannie Seely: Don't Touch Me
Bill Anderson: Still

10:15: Sunbeam
Roy Acuff (host): Sunshine Special
Charley Pride: Amy's Eyes/Mountain of Love/Kiss An Angel Good Morning

10:30: Pet Milk
Del Reeves (host): Two Dollars In the Jukebox/A Dime At A Time/Looking at the World Through A Windshield
Jean Shepard: I'll Sail My Ship Alone
Del Reeves: There She Goes

10:45: B.C. Powder
Jimmy C Newman (host): Pistol Packin' Mama
Connie Smith: Your Cheatin' Heart
Opry Square Dance Band/Melvin Sloan Dancers: Durham's Bull
Jimmy C Newman: Cajun Honey

11:00: Coca-Cola
Hank Snow (host): I Don't Hurt Anymore
Skeeter Davis: Silver Threads & Golden Needles
Charlie Walker: Don't Squeeze My Sharmon
Justin Tubb: What's Wrong With the Way That We're Doing it Now
Hank Snow: Among My Souvenirs

11:30: Creamette
4 Guys (host): Tennessee
Ernie Ashworth: Talk Back Trembling Lips
Bill Carlisle: Happy Birthday Sheila/Too Old to Cut the Mustard
Charlie Louvin: New Dreams & Sunshine
4 Guys: I'm All Tied Up

It was nice to see that on Del's final night on the Opry that she happened to be scheduled for the televised portion of the show on TNN. 

I hope everyone enjoys the Opry this weekend!!!!

Opry Notes

As the Labor Day weekend continues, here are a few Opry notes that I wanted to post: 

The 91st birthday weekend is scheduled for October 7th and 8th, which makes it just five weeks away and as of this point, nothing has been announced for Saturday night. As many Opry fans know, the last few years have seen a decline in the quality of the birthday weekend shows. As far as Friday night, Joe Diffie and Lee Brice have been announced. The assumption is that the Opry will make an announcement soon which will hopefully include a few big names. But time is getting short.

Meanwhile, Crystal Gayle has been announced as the star of the annual birthday concert which takes place on Saturday afternoon. What is interesting is that Crystal is not an Opry member which makes me wonder if there was not an Opry member available to do the concert. If my memory is right, the only other non-Opry member to have done the birthday concert since it switched to the current format was T. Bubba Bechtol, but when he appeared it was on a show with Mike Snider. Crystal is actually a good choice for the show as she always does a fine job at the Opry. And Crystal is another of the artists that you wonder why she has not been made an Opry member. She would be a good one. 

It has been almost two years since the Opry has had a new member, with Little Big Town joining the cast last in 2014. Since that time, several Opry members have passed away, currently leaving 62 members. The only rumor out there remains Chris Janson, who as stated many times that he would love to become a member of the Opry. Supposedly he did ask Pete Fisher if he could be a member and the response was something along the lines that while he performs on the Opry a lot now, once he really becomes big he will never be back. Interesting comment for sure. Meanwhile, most weeks at the Opry finds just 5 or 6 members performing, with the continued reliance on guest artists. Now there might be a financial advantage to Ryman Hospitalities to not have any additional members, as Opry members have a union contract that does give them health and pension benefits. 

November 3, 2016 will mark 60 years from the date that Stonewall Jackson originally became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Stonewall joined the cast on November 3, 1956, then was fired on December 6, 1964 for failing to make the number of required Opry appearances. He rejoined the show on May 10, 1969. While he was gone from the Opry for five years, the Opry has always recognized Stonewall's original date. It will be interesting if the Opry does anything special for Stonewall as they did for Jean Shepard on her 60th anniversary this past November. Stonewall has not appeared on the Opry since 2014 and actually very seldom in the past few years. Of course it should be noted that Stonewall sued the Opry in a case that was eventually settled out of court. Personally, it would be a shame if the Opry did not recognize the anniversary but I think it is safe to say that Stonewall is pretty much done with the Opry. I did notice that Stonewall will be hosting the Ernest Tubb Midnight Jamboree on November 5. On the schedule there is nothing noting his Opry anniversary, but they do note that it will be Stonewall's 84th birthday. 

Speaking of the Midnight Jamboree, from what I have been told, the crowds remain relatively small. Hopefully it improves. Oh, by the way, on the birthday weekend, Bobby Osborne will be hosting. 

Reports on Facebook, and in a comment on the blog from our good friend Jim, Jean Shepard is hospitalized as she has been battling a variety of health issues. When Jean appeared on the Opry in November for her 60th anniversary, the impression given was that it was going to be Jean's final appearance on the Opry as she wanted to focus on her health. Before being hospitalized, she had been out and about and was at several tapings of Larry's Country Diner for RFD-TV. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Jean. 

Meanwhile, there is nothing new to report regarding former Opry member Holly Dunn and her battle with ovarian cancer. Out prayers go out to Holly also. 

Bill Anderson's new biography is complete and for sale. He was offering autographed copies on his website and will also be doing a signing at the Opry House. I have not read the book as of yet, but I own Bill's previous books, and with his new book co-written with Peter Cooper, it promises to be another good one. 

I hope everyone continues to enjoy the holiday weekend. 

Grand Ole Opry 9/2 & 9/3

The Grand Ole Opry has posted the line-ups for the two shows this weekend, and considering that it is Labor Day weekend and a lot of the artists are out on the road doing state and county fairs, the Opry has come up with two pretty nice line-ups for the weekend. 

When looking at the line-ups, especially on Saturday night, there are two names that stand out for different reasons. First, with all of the changes that have taken place over the past decade at the Opry, it is still nice that each year they have the Grand Master Fiddle Champion make an appearance. I am not sure how the contest is conducted currently, but back when Opryland was open, it was a big deal , and if I remember right, Porter Wagoner many times hosted the contest. It is good to see that tradition continuing. The second name is that of Richard Marx. While not a country artist, Richard is one of the great piano players of our time. What is interesting is that Richard was originally scheduled to be on the Wednesday Night Opry, August 3 but cancelled. 

Joining the Grand Master Fiddle Champion and Richard Marx on Saturday night will be Grand Ole Opry members John Conlee, Mike Snider, Riders In The Sky, The Whites, Larry, Steve and Rudy Gatlin, Jesse McReynolds and Vince Gill. Additional guest artists include Ray Scott, Emily West, Mark Wills, Logan Brill and The Time Jumpers. A very solid line-up with 14 acts, of which 7 are Opry members. 

The Friday Night Opry will feature Opry members John Conlee, Mike Snider, Riders In The Sky, Jeannie Seely, Bill Anderson, Bobby Osborne, Steve Wariner and Connie Smith. Guests on Friday include Smithfield, Mark Wills, The Steeldrivers, and one of my personal favorites, Suzy Bogguss. That comes out to 8 Opry members out of the 12 acts scheduled. 

Friday September 2
7:00: John Conlee (host); Smithfield; Mike Snider
7:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Jeannie Seely; Mark Wills
Intermission
8:15: Bill Anderson (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Suzy Bogguss
8:45: Steve Wariner (host); Connie Smith; The Steeldrivers

Saturday September 3
7:00: John Conlee (host); Ray Scott; Mike Snider
7:30: Riders In The Sky (host); The Whites; Grand Master Fiddle Champion; Emily West
Intermission
8:15: Larry Gatlin & The Gatlin Brothers (host); Jesse McReynolds; Mark Wills; Opry Square Dancers
8:45: Vince Gill (host); Logan Brill; Richard Marx; The Time Jumpers

And now, here is the posted Grand Ole Opry line-up from five years ago this weekend, September 2 & 3, 2011:

Friday September 2
7:00: Riders In The Sky (host); Jimmy C Newman; Gloriana
7:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Connie Smith; James Otto
Intermission
8:15: Bill Anderson (host); Jan Howard; Mark Wills
8:45: Mike Snider (host); Jack Greene; Diamond Rio

Saturday September 3
7:00: Jim Ed Brown (host); Connie Smith; Michael Cleveland & Flamekeeper
7:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jesse McReynolds; Elizabeth Cook
Intermission
8:15: Jeannie Seely (host); Jimmy C Newman; Wynn Varble; Opry Square Dancers
8:45: Bill Anderson (host); The Whites; Billy Dean

Now from ten years ago, the weekend of September 1 & 2, 2006: 

Friday September 1
8:00: Jim Ed Brown (host); The Whites; Taylor Swift
8:30: George Hamilton IV (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Brian McComas
9:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Jack Greene; Mandy Barnett
9:30: Steve Wariner (host); Three Ring Circle; Bellamy Brothers

Saturday September 2
1st show
6:30: John Conlee (host); Lane Turner; Hillbilly All-Stars
7:00: The Whites (host); Jack Greene; Mandy Barnett
7:30: Steve Wariner (host); The Dale Ann Bradley Band; Alvarado Road Show
8:00: George Hamilton IV (host); Jan Howard; Craig Morgan; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Vince Gill (host); Jeannie Seely; The Isaacs

2nd show
9:30: John Conlee (host); Lane Turner; Hillbilly All-Stars
10:00: The Whites (host); Jack Greene; Legacy Five Quartet
10:30: Steve Wariner (host); Stu Phillips; Alvarado Road Show; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Vince Gill (host); The Dale Ann Bradley Band; Mandy Barnett
11:30: Jeannie Seely (host); George Hamilton IV; The Isaacs

There were a few names that weekend that some Opry fans might not recognize. One is the Alvarado Road Show, which consists of brothers Cleve and A.J. Clark. The brothers are still out there performing and are also accomplished songwriters with their songs having been recorded by a number of major artists. 

Another group that appeared that weekend was Three Ring Circle. This group consisted of instrumentalists Rob Ickes, Andy Leftwich and Dave Pomeroy, who played dobro, electric bass and mandolin. 2006 was the year that they released their first album with their second release taking place in 2011. The three are all accomplished, award winning musicians who have performed with a number of artists. That second CD seems to have been the last from that group. 

Finally there was the Hillbilly All-Stars which consisted of well known names Chuck Mead, Robert Reynolds, Mark Collie and Paul Deakin. Robert Reynolds and Paul Deakin are members of The Mavericks, and this group was short lived in collaboration with The Mavericks. 

The one name that I am sure all will recognize from that weekend was a very young Taylor Swift, who appeared on the opening segment of the Friday Night Opry. 

Finally, let's go back 50 years to Saturday September 3, 1966: 

6:30: Mrs. Grissoms
Charlie Louvin (host): I Don't Love You Anymore
Stringbean: Pretty Polly
Charlie Louvin: I Want A Happy Life
Del Wood: Are You From Dixie
Charlie Louvin: The Proof is In the Kissing

6:45: Rudy's
Bobby Lord (host): Blue Moon of Kentucky
Duane Dee: I Believe
James Wilson: Yakety Axe
Bobby Lord: Life Can Have Meaning

7:00: 
Roy Acuff (host): Tennessee Central No. 9
Skeeter Davis: I Wanna Be Loved By You
Tex Ritter: Bummin' Around
Stoneman Family: Ol' Slewfoot
Skeeter Davis: It Only Hurts for A Little While
Oswald: Roll On, Buddy
Stoneman Family: Rawhide/Blue Ridge Mountain Blues
Tex Ritter: Take Him Fishin'
Roy Acuff: I Saw the Light

7:30: Luzianne
Ernest Tubb (host): Two Glasses Joe
Willis Brothers: Give Me 40 Acres
Carter Family: Wildwood Flower
Minnie Pearl: I'm Thinking Tonight of My Blue Eyes
Ernest Tubb: A Memory, That's All You'll Every Be to Me
Cal Smith: Silver Dew on the Blue Grass Tonight
Willis Brothers: Tumbling Tumbleweeds
Ernest Tubb: Tomorrow Never Comes

8:00: Martha White
Flatt & Scruggs (host): Don't Get Above Your Raisin'
Glaser Brothers: The Last Thing on My Mind
Justin Tubb: Looking Back to See
Cousin Jody: No Help Wanted
Flatt & Scruggs: For Lovin' Me
Crook Brothers: Lafayette
Glaser Brothers: Let Me Down Easy
Flatt & Scruggs: Cabin on the Hill
Earl Scruggs: Cannonball Blues

8:30: Stephens
Roy Acuff (host): Please Come Back, Little Pal
Wilburn Brothers: I Can't Keep Away from You
Loretta Lynn: You Ain't Woman Enough
Waylon Jennings: Stop the World & Let Me Off
Roy Acuff: Sweeter Than the Flowers
Oswald: Columbus Stockade Blues
Wilburn Brothers: Making Plans
Roy Acuff: I Saw the Light

9:00: Pet Milk
Jimmy Newman (host): Back Pocket Money
Bob Luman: You Can Take the Boy From the Country
Harden Trio: Tippy Toeing
Del Reeves: Down in the Boondocks
Jimmy Newman: Bring Your Heart Home
The Voyagers: You Say That You're Going
Bob Luman: Come On & Sing
Opry Band: Java
Jimmy Newman: Cry, Cry Darling

9:30: Kellogg's
Hank Snow (host): I've Been Everywhere
Willis Brothers: A 6 Ft 2 by 4
Bobby Lord: That's All Right
Carter Family: Little Darling Pal of Mine
Hank Snow: You Pass Me By
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Walking In My Sleep
Bobby Lord: Old Enough to Die
Hank Snow: My Blue Eyed Elaine

10:00: Schick
Flatt & Scruggs (host): Why Did You Wander
Charlie Louvin: The Proof Is In the Kissing
Del Wood: Bully of the Town
Flatt & Scruggs: Detroit City

10:15: Pure
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Bob Luman: Almost Persuaded
Stringbean: Hot Corn; Cold Corn
Larry McNeely: Sailor's Hornpipe

10:30: Harvey's
Jimmy Newman (host): Back Pocket Money
Waylon Jennings: For Lovin' Me
Del Reeves: Girl on the Billboard
Jimmy Newman: A Fallen Star

10:45: Newport
Ernest Tubb (host): Driving Nails In My Coffin
Crook Brothers: Black Mountain Rag
Jack Greene: There Goes My Everything
Ernest Tubb: Soldier's Last Letter

11:00: Coca-Cola
Hank Snow (host): Rumba Boogie
Bill Anderson: I Get the Fever
Cousin Jody: Television Set
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Blackberry Blossom
Hank Snow: I Just Stepped Over the Line
Sam McGee: Dew Drop Waltz
Bill Anderson: Golden Guitar/I Love You Drops

11:30: Lava
Marty Robbins (host): Th Shoe Goes on the Other Foot Tonight
Wilburn Brothers: It's Another World
Loretta Lynn: You Ain't Woman Enough
Justin Tubb: Hurry, Mr. Peters
Loretta Lynn & Wilburn Brothers: Put It Off Until Tomorrow
Marty Robbins: Don't Worry/Bouquet of Roses/Wedding Bells/Take These Chains from My Heart/Singing the Blues/Lovesick Blues/You Know How Talk Gets Around

There you have it. I hope everyone enjoys the Opry this weekend!!

September Opry Highlights

It is hard to believe that summer is just about over and it's time for football. For those of us in Ohio, that means The Ohio State Buckeyes are #1 in our eyes, while we continue to hope for the best from the Cleveland Browns. For the rest of you around the country, I am sure all of you have your own local college and professional teams that you root for. While the seasons change, it is business as usual at the Opry and as always, here are the important and historical events that have taken place regarding Opry members or the Opry itself during the month of September. 

September 15, 1903: The "King of Country Music," Roy Acuff was born in Maynardsville, Tennessee. Roy came to the Opry in 1938, and except for a brief period of time, he would remain with the Opry until his death in November 1992. I think it is safe to say that Roy has been the most influential member in the history of the Opry and many people point to his death as the start of many of the changes that have taken place at the Opry. 

September 13, 1911: The "Father of Bluegrass Music," Bill Monroe was born in Rosine, Kentucky. Bill came to the Opry in October 1939 and would remain an Opry member until his death in 1996. 

September 17, 1913: Hank Williams was born. Really nothing else needs to be said. While his time at the Opry was short, it was very eventful. 

September 26, 1925: One of the most popular members in the history of the Grand Ole Opry, Marty Robbins was born near Glendale, Arizona. Marty came to the Opry in 1953, and shortly after his first appearance, he became an Opry member. Marty, who made the 11:30 segment into his own personal concert, stayed with the Opry until his death in December 1982. 

September 26, 1926: Jerry Clower was born near Liberty, Mississippi. This former fertilizer salesman joined the Opry in 1973 and was the last member of the cast to join the show prior to its permanent move to the Grand Ole Opry House. Jerry, who was a great comedian and Christian entertainer, passed away in 1998.

September 1, 1931: Lecil Travis Martin, better known as "Boxcar Willie," was born in Sterratt, Texas.  Boxcar made his Grand Ole Opry debut in 1980 at the age of 49. He became an Opry member the following year. Boxcar remained a popular member of the Opry until his death in 1999. 

September 12, 1931: The "Possum" George Jones was born in Saratoga, Texas. George originally joined the Opry in 1956, and while he would come and go, he was still an Opry member when he passed away in 2013. Although his Opry appearances were few and far between, George was always proud of his Opry membership and it is noted in one of the displays at the George Jones Museum in Nashville. 

September 8, 1932: Probably the greatest female singer in the history of country music, Patsy Cline was born in Winchester, Virginia. Patsy joined the Opry in January 1960 simply by asking, as being an Opry member was one of her dreams. Patsy passed away in March 1963 at the age of 30.

September 11, 1938: The Delmore Brothers made their final appearance as members of the Grand Ole Opry. One of the early members of the Opry, this brother duo influenced many others who followed. They left due to differences with Opry founder George D. Hay. 

September 5, 1945: Wally Fowler became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Wally was the founder of the Oak Ridge Quartet, who eventually became known as the Oak Ridge Boys. After Wally joined the Opry, he was frequently featured on the Prince Albert show and would generally sing a gospel number. Later in life, Wally ran into some financial problems that forced him to sell the rights to the Oak Ridge Quartet name. Wally passed away in 1994. 

September 18, 1947: The Grand Ole Opry brought a country music show for the first time to Carnegie Hall in New York city. Opry members Ernest Tubb and Minnie Pearl headlined what would be a two night run. Here is how Ernest remembered those nights, "The radio and newspaper people ignored us the first night we were there, but we turned away six thousand people and the next night, every reporter was there." Billboard magazine reported that "such screaming and wild applause after each number hasn't been heard in town since Frank Sinatra brought out the bobbysoxers at the Paramount." The shows were such a success that the Opry, and country music, would return. 

September 11, 1948: It would appear that this was the last night that Eddy Arnold performed as a member of the Grand Ole Opry. At the time, Eddy was the Opry's biggest star and he left to headline his own CBS network radio show. Eddy would later do an interview with Ralph Emery in which he talked about leaving the Opry. "I thought I had done as much as I could do there. I had two network radio programs outside the Opry." On his final night as a member, Eddy finished his set and stood on the stage looking over the Ryman Auditorium. He tanked Harry Stone, WSM, and the Opry fans and then turned to walk away from the microphone. Harold Bradley, who backed Eddy on guitar that night, would say, "We went around the curtain and he and Minnie Pearl hugged and both of them cried like babies because he was leaving." Eddy also created some controversy because he was the first "star" to leave the Opry and not return. Irving Waugh of WSM said, "We hated to see Eddy leave. But, as I recall, it didn't make that much difference to the Opry. At that stage, people were lined up all the way around the block to get in. New people, including Hank Williams were coming all the time." By the way, after Eddy left the Opry, he never came back. 

September 24, 1948: WSM began the Friday Night Frolics, later to be known as the Friday Night Opry. The show took place from Studio C at WSM, where it would remain until moving to the Ryman Auditorium in 1964. The show was created originally as a way to keep Eddy Arnold on WSM radio.

September 25, 1948: George Morgan became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. He was brought to the show specifically to replace Eddy Arnold. 

September 13, 1952: Webb Pierce made his first appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. He would join the cast a year later, being brought to the Opry to help fill the void after Hank Williams was fired. Webb remained an Opry member until February 19, 1957, when he left the Opry after a dispute with management over booking fees and commissions that were being charged for road shows. 

September 26, 1953: Skeeter Davis made her debut on the Grand Ole Opry. Skeeter would become an Opry member in 1959. 

September 10, 1955: Justin Tubb became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. At the time he joined, Justin was the Opry's youngest member. The son of Opry legend Ernest Tubb, Justin would remain with the Opry until his death in 1998 at the age of 62. 

September 24, 1956: WSM radio fired Opry manager Jim Denny. Jim had started with WSM and the Opry back in the early days of the show and was involved behind the scenes in various capacities including being in charge of the Opry's concession business, where he saw for the first time how much money the Opry was making and how much more potential there was. Over time, he became not only the Opry's manager but also a very powerful force at WSM, too powerful for some. He was fired from the Opry because he would not give up his ownership of Cedarwood Publishing Company. 

September 25, 1956: Dee Kilpatrick was named the Grand Ole Opry's "general director." He was also named manager of the WSM Artists' Service Bureau, which was the Opry's in-house booking agency. Dee, a former record company executive said at the time, "They asked me what I thought was wrong. We'll, back when I was working with Mercury Records, I was at the Opry almost every Saturday night I was in town, and I could look at the audience and see what was wrong. The Opry didn't appeal to the younger audiences that you have to have if you're going to keep growing. All I could see were older people and little teeny kids. There weren't any teenagers." Kilpatrick would begin to add younger acts to the Opry's cast, including the Everly Brothers and Porter Wagoner. What I find interesting in Dee's quote is that when you read what he said in 1956 about the Opry's aging audience, it is much the same as what Pete Fisher has been saying since 1999.

September 29, 1956: Rose Maddox joined the cast of the Grand Ole Opry. Rose did not stay at the Opry for very long as many of the Opry's members, especially Roy Acuff, did not care for her. 

September 6, 1958: Grand Ole Opry member Rod Brasfield made his final appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. 

September 13, 1958: Ben Smathers and the Stoney Mountain Cloggers became members of the Grand Ole Opry. For most of their years on the Opry, the Stoney Mountain Cloggers would rotate every other weekend as the featured square dancers. Ben Smathers passed away in 1990, and the Cloggers would remained a part of the Opry until 1993. 

September 30, 1958: Opry member Marty Stuart was born in Philadelphia, Mississippi. Before beginning his solo career, Marty was a part of Lester Flatt's Nashville Grass and Johnny Cash's touring band. Marty joined the Opry in November 1992.

September 25, 1962: Loretta Lynn became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. This will be her 54th year as an Opry member. 

September 27, 1963: The National Life and Accident Insurance Company purchased the Ryman Auditorium from the city of Nashville for a reported $200,000. WSM, which operated the building, immediately changed the name of the building to the Grand Ole Opry House, even though everyone still called it the Ryman. By becoming the owners, National Life was able to make some much needed repairs to the building to bring it up to code. 

September 11, 1964: The Friday Night Frolics moved from WSM Studio C to the Ryman Auditorium and was renamed the Friday Night Opry. 

September 18, 1965: According to some of the Opry's historical records, this is the date listed for when Connie Smith became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Other dates listed in the past have included June, and more recently August. While the date might be in question, what I do know is that this is the date that Connie first appeared as an Opry member. Either way, Connie has been an Opry member for 51 years. 

September 16, 1967: Jeannie Seely became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. This will be her 49th year as an Opry member. Jeannie was one of the first females to host her own Opry segment. Most weekends you will find Jeannie at the Opry and hosting. 

September 19, 1968: Former Grand Ole Opry member Red Foley passed away in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Red came to the Opry in 1946 and stayed about a decade, hosting the Prince Albert portion of the show. After he left Nashville, he went to Springfield, Missouri as host of the Ozark Jubilee, and later did additional television work. 

September 13, 1969: Earl Scruggs made his first appearance as a solo member of the Grand Ole Opry, this coming after his split with Lester Flatt. He performed "Foggy Mountain Breakdown" with his sons Gary and Randy. 

September 17, 1977: Reba McEntire made her first guest appearance on the Opry. Several years later, she would become an official member. 

September 15, 1979: Stevie Wonder made a guest appearance on the Grand Ole Opry, singing "Behind Closed Doors" in a duet with Skeeter Davis. 

September 6, 1984: Ernest Tubb passed away in a Nashville hospital after a long illness. He had been in declining health for a number of years and had last appeared on the Opry in 1982. He joined the Opry in 1943 and in 1965 he was elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame. 

September 9, 1989: Grand Ole Opry member Del Wood made her final appearance on the Opry. She passed away a month later at the age of 69 after suffering a stroke. 

September 4, 1991: Opry member Dottie West passed away in a Nashville hospital as a result of injuries suffered in an earlier car accident. Dottie had been an Opry member since 1964. 

September 4, 1992: Former Grand Ole Opry member Carl Butler died in Franklin, Tennessee. Carl first appeared on the Opry in 1948 and along with his wife Pearl, joined the cast in 1962. Not only was Carl a great singer, but he was also known as a fine songwriter. Carl and Pearl Butler did not stay as Opry members for very long and after leaving the Opry, they continued to tour. After Pearl's death, Carl would occasionally perform on the Opry. Dolly Parton has said many times how instrumental the couple had been early in her career. 

September 11, 1993: The Stoney Mountain Cloggers made their final appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. After Ben Smather's death in 1990, his widow Margaret continued as the group's leader before deciding to retire. 

September 6, 1996: Grand Ole Opry legend Hank Snow made his final appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. Hank was in declining health and made a low key decision to retire. Hank passed away in 1999, just two weeks short of his 50th anniversary as an Opry member. 

September 9, 1996: Bill Monroe passed away. Bill had been in declining health since suffering a stroke earlier in the year. Bill had been an Opry member since 1939 and had brought the sound of bluegrass to the Opry stage. 

September 20, 1997: During a guest appearance on the Opry, Johnny Paycheck was asked by Opry general manager Bob Whittaker if he would like to become the Opry's newest member. Of course, Johnny said yes and was inducted later that year. 

September 28, 2002: For the first time in 10 years, Tanya Tucker makes an appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. She was joined by the Jordanaires. 

September 13, 2003: The United States Postal Service unveiled a stamp featuring Roy Acuff. The ceremony took place at the Grand Ole Opry House. 

September 20, 2004: Grand Ole Opry member Skeeter Davis passed away in Nashville at the age of 72. Skeeter had battled cancer and other health related issues for a number of years. She was always known for her bright outfits and her big smile, that brought a lot of joy to those watching her perform. 

September 23, 2004: Just days after the death of Skeeter Davis, another Opry member passed away as Roy Drusky died. Roy joined the Opry in the late 1950s and was known for his smooth voice and great ballad songs. 

September 29, 2007: During a guest appearance on the Opry, Josh Turner was asked by Roy Clark if he would like to become the Opry's newest member. It was also on this night that Grand Ole Opry legend Porter Wagoner made his final Grand Ole Opry appearance. 

September 28, 2010: The Grand Ole Opry House reopened after being renovated following the Nashville flood that stuck in May. Since the flood, the Opry had moved around to several different venues, with the majority of the shows taking place at the Ryman Auditorium. The last hour of the show was televised on GAC, and the segment opened with the cast coming out and singing "Will The Circle Be Unbroken." Brad Paisley and Jimmy Dickens led the way. Also on that night, Blake Shelton was asked by Trace Adkins if he would like to become the Opry's newest member. 

September 13, 2011: Grand Ole Opry legend Wilma Lee Cooper passed away. Wilma and her husband Stoney joined the Opry in 1957, coming to Nashville from the WWVA Wheeling Jamboree. After Stoney's death, Wilma Lee continued on as a solo member of the Opry. In February 2001 she suffered a stroke while performing on the show which ended her career. She did return to the Opry stage in 2007 for her 50th anniversary as an Opry member, and then again in September 2010 at the reopening of the Opry House. 

September 13, 2011: George Jones made his final Grand Ole Opry appearance. It was a show that celebrated George's 80th birthday and included Alan Jackson, Joe Diffie, Lee Ann Womack and the Oak Ridge Boys. 

September 27, 2011: Rascal Flatts was invited to become the newest members of the Grand Ole Opry. They were officially inducted during the Opry's birthday bash in October. 

September 27, 2011: Johnny Wright passed away in Nashville. He was the husband of Kitty Wells, and a former member of the Grand Ole Opry. 

September 17, 2014: Grand Ole Opry member George Hamilton IV passed away. George was an Opry member for over 50 years, originally joining the cast in February 1960. He left the show for a brief period of time, moving back to his home state of North Carolina. His last Opry appearance had been earlier in the month, on September 6. 

September 25, 2015: While making a visit to Nashville, Randy Travis made a surprise visit to the Grand Ole Opry.