Grand Ole Opry 10/14 & 10/15

For those who are interested, Tom T Hall is having an estate sale in a few weeks as he is in the process of settling his estate and selling his long time home, Fox Hollow. Tom T is selling furniture, musical instruments and other memorabilia. If interested, there is information on various websites. And for those who might ask, Tom T is now considered retired and does no more personal appearances, and has not for several years. 

Now for the Opry:

Coming off the 91st Birthday Bash, the Grand Ole Opry has posted the line-ups for the three shows this weekend, as the Opry continues with two shows on Saturday night. There are some interesting names listed, one of which is Grand Ole Opry member Roy Clark, who is scheduled for both shows on Saturday. For Roy, these will be his 4th and 5th appearances of 2016, which is the most he has appeared on the Opry since 2010.

Other Opry members joining Roy on Saturday night include Trace Adkins, Bill Anderson, Ricky Skaggs and, for the first show, Jesse McReynolds. Also scheduled are Jeannie Seely, Mike Snider and John Conlee, each of whom are also scheduled for Friday night. Joining Jeannie, Mike and John on Friday will be Connie Smith, The Whites and Bobby Osborne. 

As far as guest artists, Friday night has Emily West, Flatt Lonesome, Mark Collie, Runaway Jane and Exile on the slate. Exile will return for both shows on Saturday night, joined by Ernie Haase & Signature Sound. For Runaway Jane, this will be the Opry debut for this female trio. 

Friday October 14
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Emily West; Mike Snider
7:30: The Whites (host); T Graham Brown; Flatt Lonesome
Intermission
8:15: John Conlee (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Mark Collie
8:45: Connie Smith (host); Runaway Jane; Exile

Saturday October 15
1st show
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Ben & Sara; Mike Snider
7:30: John Conlee (host); Roy Clark; Exile
8:00: Ricky Skaggs (host); Ernie Haase & Signature Sound; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Bill Anderson (host); Jesse McReynolds; Trace Adkins

2nd show
9:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Ben & Sara; Mike Snider
10:00: John Conlee (host); Roy Clark; Exile
10:30: Ricky Skaggs (host); Ernie Haase & Signature Sound; Opry Square Dancers
11:00:Trace Adkins

That comes out to 11 acts on Friday night, 6 of whom are Opry members. On Saturday night, 10 acts on the first show, with 8 Opry members, and 9 for the 2nd show, 7 of which are part of the cast. 

And now here is the posted Grand Ole Opry line-up from five years ago, the weekend of October 14 & 15, 2011:

Friday October 14
7:00: Jim Ed Brown (host); The Whites; Daryle Singletary
7:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Josh Turner
Intermission
8:15: Mike Snider (host); Jack Greene; Mandy Barnett
8:45: Larry Gatlin & The Gatlin Brothers (host); The Black Lillies; Mark Wills

Saturday October 15
1st show
7:00: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jimmy C Newman; Joey+Rory
7:30: Mike Snider (host); Jim Ed Brown; Elizabeth Cook
8:00: Jean Shepard (host); Jesse McReynolds; The Secret Sisters; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Bill Anderson (host); Jim Lauderdale; Oak Ridge Boys

2nd show
9:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jimmy C Newman; Joey+Rory
10:00: Mike Snider (host); Jim Ed Brown; Elizabeth Cook
10:30: Jean Shepard (host); Jan Howard; The Secret Sisters; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Bill Anderson (host); Jim Lauderdale; Oak Ridge Boys

Now from ten years ago, the weekend of October 13 & 15, 2006:

Friday October 13
8:00: Mike Snider (host); Connie Smith; Jan Howard; Rebecca Lynn Howard
8:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jean Shepard; The Whites; Katrina Elam
9:00: John Conlee (host); Marty Raybon; Andy Griggs
9:30: Lorrie Morgan (host); Larry Sparks; Brad Paisley

Saturday October 14
1st show
6:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); The Whites
7:00: Vince Gill (host); Rodney Crowell; Jenny Gill; Guy Clark; Patty Loveless
8:00: John Conlee (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Steve Wariner (host); Jim Ed Brown; Jack Greene

2nd show
9:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); The Whites
10:00: Vince Gill (host); Rodney Crowell; Jenny Gill; Guy Clark; Patty Loveless; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Steve Wariner (host); John Conlee
11:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); Jack Greene

And from 25 years ago, Saturday October 12, 1991: 

1st show
6:30: Porter Wagoner (host); 4 Guys
6:45: Bill Monroe (host); Vic Willis Trio
7:00: Jack Greene (host); Skeeter Davis; The Whites
7:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Roy Drusky; Jan Howard; Sweethearts of the Rodeo
8:00: Roy Acuff (host); Bill Carlisle; Opry Square Dance Band; Stoney Mountain Cloggers; Randy Travis
8:30: Hank Snow (host); Jim Ed Brown; Charlie Louvin; Connie Smith; Mike Snider

2nd show
9:30: Porter Wagoner (host); 4 Guys; Skeeter Davis; The Whites
10:00: Bill Monroe (host); Jack Greene
10:15: Roy Acuff (host); Jan Howard
10:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Sweethearts of the Rodeo
10:45: Charlie Walker (host); Vic Willis Trio; Opry Square Dance Band; Stoney Mountain Cloggers
11:00: Hank Snow (host); Connie Smith; Justin Tubb; Randy Travis
11:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); Charlie Louvin; Bill Carlisle; Mike Snider

Looking back, it was 27 years ago, Saturday October 14, 1989, that Holly Dunn became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. 

Holly Dunn was born on August 22, 1957. Prior to coming to Nashville, she performed in a band called Freedom Folk Singers, which toured across the south. She attended Abilene Christian University and performed in a group there called The Hilltoppers. After graduating from college, Holly moved to Nashville, working as a demo singer and then as a songwriter for CBS Records and MTM Records. In 1985, MTM signed her to a recording contract. After several singles that only reached the bottom of the charts, in 1986 Holly had her first hit with "Daddy's Hands" which went to #7 on the country charts. Her following album, "Cornerstone" produced three Top 10 hits "Love Someone Like Me," "Only When I Love," and "Strangers Again." in 1989, after moving to Warner Bros. Records, she had her first number 1 hit "Are You Ever Gonna Love Me." Her only other #1 single was "You Really Had Me Going," released in 1990. 

After Warner Bros. Records released her greatest hits album in 1993, she left the label, signing with River North Records, however the two albums she released failed to produce any hits. In the late 1990's, she left Nashville, moved to Detroit and became the morning show co-host on WWWW radio. This was not her first experience behind a microphone as she had worked as a DJ during her college years. After returning to Nashville, she was a co-host on "Opry Backstage" on The Nashville Network in 2001-02.

In 2003, Holly announced her retirement from her musical career to devote full time to art, releasing a final album "Full Circle" in 2003. She relocated to Santa Fe, New Mexico. Shortly after leaving Nashville, the Opry terminated her membership. Holly currently is undergoing treatment for ovarian cancer. 

Here is the running order from Saturday October 14, 1989, the night that Holly Dunn became an Opry member. It was also the Opry's 64th birthday celebration. 

1st show
6:30: Mrs. Grissoms
Jimmy Dickens (host): May the Bird of Paradise Fly Up Your Nose
Skeeter Davis: The End of the World
Jimmy Dickens: When Your House is Not a Home

6:45: Rudy's
Stonewall Jackson (host): Me & You & A Dog Named Boo
Jeanne Pruett: Satin Sheets
Stonewall Jackson: Don't Be Angry

7:00: Shoney's
Bill Monroe (host): Gonna Have a Feast Tonight
Charlie Louvin: The Precious Jewel
Jan Howard: The One You Slip Around With
Charlie Walker: Pick Me Up on Your Way Down
Jean Shepard: I'm Just an Old Bridge That Keeps Burning
Bill Monroe: On the Old Kentucky Shore
Blake Williams: Bluegrass Breakdown

7:30: Standard Candy
Jack Greene (host): Statue of a Fool
The Whites: Pins & Needles/He Hasn't Lost His Touch
Holly Dunn: Daddy's Hands/There Goes My Heart Again
Jack Greene/Minnie Pearl and Opry Cast: Happy Birthday Grand Ole Opry
Jack Greene & Holly Dunn: Satisfied/I Saw the Light

8:00: Martha White
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Connie Smith: The Keys in the Mailbox
Minnie Pearl: Comedy
Pee Wee King: Tennessee Waltz
Porter Wagoner: Ol' Slewfoot
Opry Square Dance Band/Stoney Mountain Cloggers: Arkansas Traveler
Roy Acuff: I Saw the Light

8:30: Music Valley Merchants
Hank Snow (host): The Call of the Wild
Grandpa Jones: Old Blue
Roy Drusky: More & More
Hank Locklin: Send Me the Pillow You Dream On
Jeannie Seely: Don't Touch Me
Hank Snow: These Hands

2nd show
9:30: Dollar General
Porter Wagoner (host): Country Music Has Gone to Town
Ray Pillow: Til the Best Comes Along
Charlie Louvin: The Precious Jewel
Jean Shepard: I'll Sail My Ship Alone
The Whites: Alabama Jubilee
Porter Wagoner: Green, Green Grass of Home/I Thought I Heard You Calling My Name

10:00: Little Debbie
Jimmy Dickens (host): Me & My Big Loud Mouth
Holly Dunn: There Goes My Heart Again
Jimmy Dickens: Shopping for Dresses

10:15: Sunbeam
Roy Acuff (host): Meeting in the Air
Bill Carlisle: Knothole
Roy Acuff & Opry Cast: Happy Birthday Grand Ole Opry

10:30: Pet Milk
Bill Monroe (host): Stay Away From Me; You're Causing Me Trouble
Skeeter Davis: My Last Date with You/Silver Threads & Golden Needles
Bill Monroe: Down This Lonesome Highway

10:45: B.C. Powder
Grandpa Jones (host): Darby's Ram
Charlie Walker: Does Ft. Worth Every Cross Your Mind
Opry Square Dance Band/Stoney Mountain Cloggers: Sugar in the Goard
Grandpa Jones: Gone Home

11:00: Coca-Cola
Hank Snow (host): That Heart Belongs to Me
Jan Howard: Rock Me Back to Little Rock/Evil on Your Mind
Pee Wee King: Slowpoke
Justin Tubb: Walking; Talking; Cryin'; Barely Beating Broken Heart
Hank Snow: I Almost Lost My Mind

11:30: Creamette
Jack Greene (host): Walking on New Grass
Roy Drusky: Take Good Care of Her
Hank Locklin: Please Help Me I'm Falling
Connie Smith: You've Got Me Right Where You Want Me/Sing, Sing, Sing
Jack Greene: Don't You Ever Get Tired of Hurting Me

I always enjoyed Holly on the Opry and was sorry to see her leave. And our thoughts and prayers continue with Holly for a full recovery. 

To finish up for this week, I wanted to recognize that it was 50 years ago Saturday, October 15, 1966 that Del Reeves became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. 

Franklin Delano Reeves was born in Sparta, North Carolina and was the youngest of 11 children. By the age of 12, Del was playing a regular gig on a local Saturday radio show. He attended Appalachian State College in Boone, North Carolina, then served four years in the Air Force. While stationed at Travis Air Force Base he began writing songs, singing on country music television shows, and recording with Capital Records. After leaving the military, he stayed in California where he developed a strong reputation as a singer-songwriter-performer with songs recorded by Carl Smith and Roy Drusky. Friend and fellow songwriter Hank Cochran talked Del into moving to Nashville, which he did in 1962. 

In 1965, United Artists released "Girl on the Billboard" which went to No. 1, sold a million copies and earned Del the nickname of The Doodle-Oo-Doo-Doo Kid. That same year, "The Belles of Southern Bell" was a Top 5 hit, and in 1966 "Women Do Funny Things to Me" went into the Top 10. Opry membership took place the same year and on the night of his induction, which was handled by Porter Wagoner, Del, whose parents were in the audience, burst into tears and could only sing the chorus and the end of his song. 

In addition to having had more than 25 songs on the country charts, Del also hosted his own television show, "Del Reeves Country Carnival," and appeared in a number of movies. By the late 1970's, Del's hit making days were over and he would spend the next several decades touring and appearing on the Grand Ole Opry. Suffering from emphysema, Del made his last Opry appearance in August 2002, and passed away on January 1, 2007 at the age of 74. 

To remember Del Reeves, here is the Grand Ole Opry running order from Saturday October 15, 1966, the night Del Reeves became a member of the Grand Ole Opry: 

7:30: Luzianne
Jimmy Newman (host): Back Pocket Money
Willis Brothers: A 6 ft 2 by 4
Bob Luman: Come on and Sing
Jean Shepard: If Teardrops were Silver
Jimmy Newman: Cry, Cry, Darling
Del Wood: Melinda
Ernest Ashworth: Pushed In a Corner
Willis Brothers: Big Daddy's Alabammy Bound
Jimmy Newman: Bring Your Heart Home

8:00: Martha White
Flatt & Scruggs (host): Wonder If You're Lonesome, Too
Tex Ritter: High Noon
Bill Anderson: I Get the Fever
Stringbean: Hot Corn; Cold Corn
Flatt & Scruggs: Houston
Crook Brothers: 8th of January
Billy Grammer: The Real Thing
Flatt & Scruggs: Mama, You've Been on My Mind
Earl Scruggs: Lonesome Road Blues

8:30: Stephens
Porter Wagoner (host): 'Ol Slewfoot
George Morgan: Almost
George Hamilton IV: Early Morning Rain
Archie Campbell: Most Richly Blessed
Porter Wagoner: Green, Green Grass of Home
Del Reeves: Girl on the Billboard
Jeannie Seely: It's Only Love
Mac McGaha & Buck Trent: Turkey in the Straw

9:00: Pet Milk
Ernest Tubb (host): Driving Nails in My Coffin
Bill Monroe: The Walls of Time
Wilburn Brothers: Hurt Her Once for Me
Marion Worth: More Than You'll Ever Get
Ernest Tubb: Another Story
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Nubbing Ridge
Jack Greene: There Goes My Everything
Ernest Tubb: Slipping Around

9:30: Kellogg's
Bobby Lord (host): Cash on the Barrel Head
Willis Brothers: Diamonds on Your Hands
Ray Pillow: Volkswagen
Dottie West: Here Comes My Baby
Bobby Lord: Losers Like Me
Del Wood: Cajun Stripper
Cousin Jody: On Top of Old Smokey
Bobby Lord: That's All Right

10:00: Schick
Bill Anderson (host): I Love You Drops
George Hamilton IV: Truck Driving Man
Stringbean: 20 cent Cotton and 90 cent Meat
Bob Luman: Memphis

10:15: Pure
Porter Wagoner (host): Dooley
Jimmy Newman: A Fallen Star
Ernest Ashworth: At Ease Heart
Leon Butler: He'll Have to Go
Porter Wagoner: Howdy Neighbor Howdy

10:30: Harvey's
Flatt & Scruggs (host): Petticoat Junction
Jean Shepard: Second Fiddle
George Morgan: You're the Only Good Thing
Flatt & Scruggs: Ballad of Jed Clampett

10:45: Newport
Ernest Tubb (host): Thanks A Lot
Dottie West: Let Me Talk to You
Ray Pillow: I'd Fight the World
Crook Brothers: Greenback Dollar
Ernest Tubb: I'll Step Aside

11:00: Coca-Cola
Bill Monroe (host): Uncle Pen
Tex Ritter: I Dreamed of A Hillbilly Heaven
Wilburn Brothers: It's Another World
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Walking in My Sleep
Bill Monroe: Live & Let Live
Jeannie Seely: Don't Touch Me
Sam McGee: Steel Guitar Rag
Bill Monroe: A Used to Be

11:30: Lava
Marty Robbins (host): Ribbon of Darkness
Marion Worth: Every Since My Baby Went Away
Charlie Louvin: See the Big Man Cry
Billy Grammer: The Real Thing
Marty Robbins: The Shoe Goes on the Other Foot Tonight
Del Reeves: Belles of Southern Bell
Cousin Jody: Mocking Bird
Marty Robbins: Devil Woman/Bouquet of Roses/I Could Never Be Ashamed of You/Take These Chains from My Heart/Lovesick Blues/El Paso

There you have it. I hope all of you enjoyed the memories and look back and I hope everyone enjoys the Opry this week. 

Grand Ole Opry Birthday Weekend-Recap

This past weekend was spent in Nashville attending the Grand Ole Opry's 91st Birthday Bash. Overall, it was a nice weekend and in my personal opinion, the shows were pretty good. The three Opry shows at the Grand Ole Opry House were sold-out and the Opry Country Classics show at the Ryman Auditorium was about 2/3 filled.

First up for the weekend was the Classics show on Thursday. Larry Gatlin was the host and Connie Smith was the spotlight artist. Others who performed included William Michael Morgan, The Gatlin Brothers, Rhonda Vincent and Gene Watson. The show was excellent. If you have not had the opportunity to see or her William Michael Morgan, you would be impressed. He currently has the #1 song on the country music charts and his voice and sound is real country. I have seen him now several times at the Opry and have come away impressed each time. In addition to performing on the show, he signed copies of his new CD after the show, drawing an impressive crowd. Rhonda Vincent performed with the Opry Staff Band and stuck to country music. As always with Rhonda, she looked and sounded impressive. And what can you say about Gene Watson? In honor of Larry Gatlin, he performed "Help Me" which was written by Larry and did a great job. Gene and Rhonda also did a duet. Connie Smith, as the spotlight artist, was also excellent. Before the show, I had the chance to meet Connie at the Ernest Tubb Record Shop, where she was meeting fans. There were a few people there to visit with Connie and she was signing pictures and copies of her CD. Finally on the show, The Gatlin Brothers did three of their hits, "Broken Lady," "All The Gold In California," and "Houston." And for those who know the format of the show, Larry followed the script and did an excellent job hosting. He does great interplay with the audience and the artists that he introduces. Sometimes he goes into a little bit of overdrive, but he does keep the two hour show moving along.

Next up was the Friday Night Opry. Opry members who hosted segments were Connie Smith, Mike Snider, The Whites and Ricky Skaggs. The only other Opry member on the line-up was Jesse McReynolds. Connie hosted the first segment and was late getting to the show, so the first act up was Jackie Lee. He did two songs, then Connie was introduced and brought on Joe Diffie. Joe sounded good and after he finished up, Connie did several songs. Mike Snider followed, hosting the next segment and he kept it to his string band music. Not much in the way of humor other than is usual about not clapping during his song. He brought on Carly Pearce and Bryan White. Carly is "ok" in my opinion, nothing special. She worked hard for the crowd. Bryan White was impressive, especially given the fact that his father had died on Wednesday night in a car accident. Nothing was said about it and Bryan seemed emotionally under control. He smiled and interacted a bit with the audience.

After the intermission, The Whites were up next, introducing Jesse McReynolds and Chuck Wicks. Jesse did two numbers, which is always a treat as most of his Opry appearances sees him limited to just one number. Chuck Wicks, who is one of the hosts of America's Morning Show, is funny and seemed to really enjoy himself on the Opry. He did a lot of interplay while being introduced by Cheryl White. Closing out the show was Ricky Skaggs, who kept it country for the first song and finished it up with bluegrass on his final number. Ashley Monroe did an excellent job with "In The Garden," which she has done before at the Opry, and Lee Brice closed out the show. Lee just came off a big tour and gave the band the night off. It was just Lee and his guitar. Lee's voice was a little hoarse, but that allowed his voice to have a nice earthy tone while singing two new ballads. Overall it was a nice night that concluded with the singing of Happy Birthday and the first batch of balloons being dropped. All of the artists who performed came back out on stage and sang. Finally, the only non-advertised guest being "Nashville" star Charles Esten, who just stood at the announcers stand, promoting the television show with Eddie Stubbs.

Saturday night was the big birthday night and featured Grand Ole Opry member Brad Paisley. Hosting segments on both shows were Connie Smith, The Whites and Riders In The Sky. The additional segment on each of the shows featured only Brad Paisley, with Mike Snider and Bobby Osborne as the only other Opry members scheduled. Bill Cody was the announcer for this show. The first show started with Connie Smith, who made it on time, hosting. The next act originally scheduled was The Secret Sisters, but instead it was Carly Pearce. The Secret Sisters didn't make it on time for their slot. From what I heard, but not confirmed, is that they were originally scheduled for the third segment of the show, but were changed on Friday to the first segment. Whether they got that information or not, the result was that they were not there. Carly was out performing in the Opry Plaza as part of the birthday entertainment. The Opry went out and brought her in, where she changed clothes and was immediately out on stage singing two songs. After she finished, it was back outside for another set in the plaza. Mike Snider was the third act on the segment and did one long instrumental number. The second segment was hosted by The Whites, and they introduced Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press and Mo Pitney. Bobby did two numbers, including "Rocky Top." Mo Pitney, who also appeared in the Opry Plaza, did several songs and was appearing in support of his new CD. Mo is true country, and almost too country for country radio. He is a great young talent who has appeared on the Opry numerous times and I really like him. With two shows, there was no intermission, so it was immediately into the third segment with The Riders In The Sky, minus Ranger Doug, hosting. The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band and the Opry Square Dances were their guests. For the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, they are out on tour and have been for over 50 years with basically the same original line-up. They did "Mr. Bojangles" and "Fishing In The Dark" with the audience singing along. This was my first time seeing them and as you would expect with such a legendary act, they delivered. The Opry Square Dancers were joined by Buck White who can still kick it. Finally, the final segment was Brad Paisley. He was outstanding, playing up to the crowd, posing for pictures on the edge of the stage and having a great time. Brad had his full band and he concluded his set with "Will the Circle be Unbroken," joined by the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band. There were two other highlights in Brad's segment. First, Brad talked about being an Opry member and how it was the most important achievement in his career. They then showed the video from the night Bill Anderson, Jeannie Seely and Jimmy Dickens asked Brad to become an Opry member. The other highlight was when Brad performed his new single "Today." A video was played as he sang that included highlights of past and current Opry members, with some of the current members being shown from the night they were asked to become Opry members, or from earlier in their careers. There were so many artists pictured that it was hard to remember all of them but the ones I saw included Roy Acuff, Minnie Pearl, Porter Wagoner, Dolly Parton, George Jones, Johnny Cash, June Carter, The Carter Family, Bobby Lord, Jack Greene, Connie Smith, Rod Brasfield, Jimmy Dickens, Loretta Lynn, Trace Adkins, Little Big Town, Oak Ridge Boys, Blake Shelton, Vince Gill, Amy Grant and so many others. When finished, he received a standing ovation. The show concluded with the birthday cake and the singing of Happy Birthday, joined by those performing from that night.

The second show was very much like the first with just a couple of exceptions. Eddie Stubbs replaced Bill Cody as the announcer and the first segment featured Connie and Mike Snider, with The Secret Sisters making it for this show. Brad Paisley did the 2nd segment, and recreated much of what he did on the first show. The Whites, Mo Pitney and the square dancers followed, with Riders In The Sky and Nitty Gritty Dirt Band finishing up the night. For the third time, the cake was rolled out, but this time it was just the Riders, Nitty Gritty Dirt Band and Connie Smith joining the singing.

Among other items of note:

• There was a comment or two regarding the previous weekend when Dan Rogers did the tribute to Jean Shepard, instead of Steve Buchanan or Pete Fisher. Some felt it was a sign of some tension between the Opry management and Jean, but apparently that was not the case. From what I heard, both Steve and Pete had the weekend off and were not at the Opry. And speaking of Dan, he seems to be doing more things at the Opry and he did a very nice job reading the tribute. 
• The Opry has put the 2017 tickets on sale and for those who are thinking of going to the Opry next year, it is going to cost more money. For the tier 1 seating, the price is now $95, just over $99 including handling fees. That is a $20 increase in pricing. The rest of the tickets also increased, although the other increases were pretty small. with just a dollar or two increase on several of the sections. 
• Security is now a big issue at the Opry. To enter the Opry Plaza area on show nights, you now have to pass through security, which included going through scanners, purses and bags being checked and pockets being emptied. While some may object, it really is a reflection of the world that we live in today and anything that makes it safer for the artists and fans, I am all for. The process was very quick as they had plenty of scanners and entry points. Also, there were numerous security guards on the grounds and in the building. 
• Margie Bowes was backstage on Saturday night and Connie Smith introduced her during her segment on the second show. Margie was an Opry member from the late 1950's until the 1970's. Margie has battled some health issues over the years, so it was nice to see her at the Opry. Also at the Opry on Saturday was Melvin Sloan. No, he didn't dance. 
• Some people have asked about Stonewall Jackson and the fact that the first Saturday in November will be Stonewall's 60th anniversary of when he first joined the Opry (yes, he did leave for a few years), and if the Opry was going to do anything special. I did not hear anything, but considering the past issues between Stonewall and the Opry management, I don't know if anything will take place. It would be nice if the differences could be put to rest and Stonewall came out. He is scheduled to due the Midnight Jamboree that weekend. 

Finally, I spent a little bit of time at Hank Snow's former home, the Rainbow Ranch. The house is now under the ownership of relatives of Hank and a lot of work is being done to renovate the home and property. It was a very interesting visit to see what all has been done to the house and the interior of the home. Hopefully their dream comes true and visitors to Nashville, and fans of Hank, will be able to one day stay in the house. Good luck and I will continue to keep everyone posted. 

While some may complain about the direction that the Opry has been going in, it is still a great show. Yes, it has changed, some for the better, some not so. And while all of us which that more of the legends and Opry veterans would appear, many have chosen to go in a different direction. And many have retired from performing. Let's appreciate the Opry members, and guests, who do come out to support the show. While the number of artists for the birthday show was small in number, the shows were excellent and it was a great 91st birthday celebration for the Opry. 

Grand Ole Opry 10/7 & 10/8-91st Birthday Weekend

It's that time of year as this weekend the Grand Ole Opry will be celebrating their 91st birthday. The actual date is the end of November, however years ago the Opry began having an annual Country Music Disc Jockey Convention and as part of the festivities, the Opry began celebrating it's birthday. While the DJ convention no longer takes place, the Opry continues to celebrate, though not on the scale that they did years ago. As usual, I will be headed to Nashville later today for the weekend. 

While the line-ups have not been posted as of yet, there are a few names that I can pass along: 

For the Thursday night Opry Country Classics Show, Larry Gatlin will be the host and the spotlight artist is Connie Smith. Among those scheduled to perform on The Gatlin Brothers, William Michael Morgan, Rhonda Vincent and Gene Watson. This might be the best show of the weekend!!

The Friday Night Opry, with one show, has Opry members Ricky Skaggs, Joe Diffie, Connie Smith and Mike Snider, along with guest artists Lee Brice, Bryan White, Ashley Monroe and Chuck Wicks. And still more to be announced. 

The Grand Ole Opry on Saturday night has two shows, with Opry member Brad Paisley headlining both shows. Opry members joining him, so far, include Connie Smith, Mike Snider and Riders In The Sky, along with guests Mo Pitney and The Secret Sisters. 

There will also be the Opry Plaza party all day Saturday, with Crystal Gayle doing the Saturday afternoon birthday concert. Others performing in the plaza include Carson Peters and Iron Mountain, Janelle Arthur and Ben & Sara. Somehow, as it has been in the past, one or two of these acts many end up doing the Opry on Saturday night. 

Hopefully it is a good weekend and next week I will pass along any information I have received, including the news of the big price hikes for Opry tickets in 2017.

And now, here is the posted Grand Ole Opry line-up from five years ago, the weekend of October 7 & 8. 2011. It was the Opry's 86th birthday weekend and on Saturday night, Rascal Flatts became the newest members of the Grand Ole Opry. 

Friday October 7
7:00: Mike Snider (host); Jim Ed Brown; Jason Michael Carroll
7:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jimmy C Newman; Crystal Bowersox
Intermission
8:15: Charley Pride (host); Jack Greene; Mandy Barnett
8:45: Ricky Skaggs (host); Connie Smith; The Whites

Saturday October 8
1st show
7:00: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jimmy C Newman; Chuck Mead & His Grassy Knoll Boys
7:30: Jeannie Seely (host); The Whites; Charley Pride
8:00: Craig Morgan; Ronnie Dunn; Rascal Flatts

2nd show
9:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); George Hamilton IV: Ronnie Dunn; Vince Gill
10:00: Charley Pride (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Chuck Mead & His Grassy Knoll Boys
10:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); Jan Howard; Craig Morgan; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Rascal Flatts

Following the previous year's 85th birthday weekend which featured Roy Clark, Taylor Swift and Dolly Parton among others, the 1st show on Saturday night was perhaps one of the worst birthday shows ever. Just 9 acts and televised portion featured just three, one of whom was Ronnie Dunn and the other being Rascal Flatts, who became new members. Unfortunately, this birthday weekend was the start of a trend for the birthday weekends that has continued. 

Now from ten years ago, the weekend of October 6 & 7, 2006:

Friday October 6
8:00: The Whites (host); Jack Greene
8:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Mel McDaniel
9:00: Jean Shepard (host); T.G. Sheppard; Raul Malo
9:30: Jimmy C Newman (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Chely Wright

Saturday October 7
1st show
6:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Connie Smith; Jimmy C Newman
7:00: Dierks Bentley; Chris Young; Raul Malo; Loretta Lynn
8:00: Jean Shepard (host); Jack Greene; T.G. Sheppard; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: The Whites (host); Mel McDaniel; Daryle Singletary

2nd show
9:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Connie Smith; Loretta Lynn
10:00: Jimmy C Newman (host); Stu Phillips; Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Chris Young
10:30: The Whites (host); Jack Greene; Raul Malo; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Jean Shepard (host); T.G. Sheppard; Dierks Bentley
11:30: Ray Pillow (host); Mel McDaniel; Daryle Singletary

And from 25 years ago, Saturday October 5, 1991. This was night of the Grand Ole Opry's 66th birthday show: 

1st show
6:30: Bonanza
Bill Monroe (host): I'm Going Back to Old Kentucky
Skeeter Davis: The End of the World
Bill Monroe: Dark As the Night; Blue As the Day

6:45: Country Music Hall of Fame
Charlie Walker (host): Right or Wrong
George Hamilton IV: Till I Can Gain Control Again
Hank Locklin: Send Me the Pillow You Dream On
Charlie Walker: Drinking Champagne

7:00: Shoney's
Porter Wagoner (host): Funky Grass Band
Wilma Lee Cooper: Ghost Train
Bill Carlisle: Leave That Liar Alone
Roy Drusky: The Last Farewell
Osborne Brothers: Kentucky

7:30: Standard Candy
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Connie Smith: You've Got Me Right Where You Want Me
Jim Ed Brown: Just for Old Time Sake
Vince Gill: Little Liza Jane/When I Call Your Name
Grand Ole Opry Cast: Happy Birthday Grand Ole Opry
Roy Acuff: I Saw the Light

8:00: Martha White
Grandpa Jones (host): Apple Jack
Jim & Jesse: When I Dream About the Southland
The Whites: Doing it By the Book
Bill Anderson: Still/Southern Fried
Opry Square Dance Band/Melvin Sloan Dancers: Sugar In the Goard
Grandpa Jones: Gooseberry Pie

8:30: Opryland
Hank Snow (host): Address Unknown
4 Guys: Way Down Deep
Del Reeves: A Dozen Pair of Boots
Mike Snider: Old Joe Clark/Foggy Mountain Breakdown
Jeannie Seely: When He Leaves You
Hank Snow: I'm Glad I Got to See You Once Again

2nd show
9:30: Dollar General
Porter Wagoner (host): You Gotta Have A License
Osborne Brothers: Tennessee Hound Dog
Ray Pillow: The Days When You Were Still In Love With Me
Vince Gill: Look at Us/Crying Holy Unto the Lord/When I Call Your Name
Porter Wagoner: Big Wind

10:00: Little Debbie
Grandpa Jones (host): Kitty Clyde
Skeeter Davis: The End of the World
Roy Drusky: Mississippi
Grandpa Jones: Tritzem Yodel

10:15: Tennessee Pride/Sunbeam
Roy Acuff (host): Low & Lonely
Connie Smith: The Keys in the Mailbox/Satisfied
Grand Ole Opry Cast: Happy Birthday Grand Ole Opry
Roy Acuff: I Saw the Light

10:30: Pet Milk
Del Reeves (host): Two Dollars in the Jukebox/A Dime At a Time/Looking at the World Through A Windshield
David Houston: I'll Take You Home Again, Kathleen
Del Reeves: Lay A Little Lovin' On Me

10:45: B.C. Powder
Bill Monroe (host): Mary Jane, Won't You Be Mine
Charlie Walker: Drinking Champagne
Opry Square Dance Band/Melvin Sloan Dancers: Bill Cheatham
Bill Monroe: Wicked Path of Sin

11:00: Coca-Cola
Hank Snow (host): White Silver Sands
Bill Carlisle: Knothole
Jim Ed Brown: The 3 Bells
4 Guys: We're Only Here for A Little While
Jim & Jesse: The Flower in the Desert
Hank Snow: That Lucky Old Sun

11:30: Creamette
Bill Anderson (host): Don't She Look Good
The Whites: Love Is A Rose
Jeannie Seely: I'll Be Around When It's Over
Mike Snider: Foggy Mountain Breakdown/Putting on the Dog
Bill Anderson: Deck of Cards

For the featured line-up this week, let's go back to Saturday October 7, 1989 when country music legend Buck Owens made a rare appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. You could say that Opry fans got a real treat that night as not only was Buck featured, but a young Garth Brooks was also on the Opry schedule. 

1st show
6:30: Bonanza
Jimmy C Newman (host): Don't Say; Don't Say
Jeanne Pruett: Satin Sheets
Jimmy C Newman: Diggy Liggy Lo
Bessyl Duhon: Texa Cajun

6:45: Rudy's
Jim Ed Brown (host): Southern Loving
The Browns: Here Today & Gone Tomorrow/The 3 Bells

7:00: Shoney's
Porter Wagoner (host): Dooley
Jean Shepard: I Thought of You/It Wasn't God Who Made Honky-Tonk Angels/You Win Again/A Dear John Letter
Jim & Jesse: When I Dream About the Southland
Ray Pillow: Bubbles in My Beer
Skeeter Davis: The End of the World
Porter Wagoner: Wake Up Jacob

7:30: Standard Candy
Jimmy Dickens (host): I'm Little But I'm Loud
Garth Brooks: If Tomorrow Never Comes
Jeannie Seely: One Bad Old Memory
Buck Owens: Act Naturally/The Streets of Bakersfield
Jimmy Dickens: My Eyes Are Jealous/Sleeping at the Foot of the Bed

8:00: Martha White
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Connie Smith: Then & Only Then/Louisiana Man
Osborne Brothers: Rocky Top/Rank Strangers/Kentucky
David Houston: Almost Persuaded
Opry Square Dance Band/Melvin Sloan Dancers: Sally Goodin

8:30: Music Valley Merchants
Hank Snow (host): Send Me the Pillow You Dream On
Roy Drusky: You Always Hurt the One You Love
Bill Carlisle: Too Old to Cut the Mustard
Jan Howard; The One You Slip Around With
Charlie Louvin: Til the End
Hank Snow: Among My Souvenirs

2nd show
9:30: Dollar General
Porter Wagoner (host): On a Highway Headed South
Buck Owens: I'm Gonna Have Love One More Time/Tiger by the Tail/Together Again/Act Naturally 
Jean Shepard: Second Fiddle
Stonewall Jackson: Old Chuck of Coal
Porter Wagoner: Sugar Foot Rag

10:00: Little Debbie
Jim Ed Brown (host): Pop A Top
Dottie West: Here Comes My Baby
Jim Ed Brown: Morning

10:15: Sunbeam
Roy Acuff (host): Just A Friend
Jim & Jesse: I'm Happy Everyday I Live/Paradise

10:30: Pet Milk
Jimmy Dickens (host): John Henry
Garth Brooks: If Tomorrow Never Comes/We Bury the Hatchet But Leave the Handle Sticking Out
Jimmy Dickens: Take Me As I Am, or Let Me Go

10:45: B.C. Powder
Osborne Brothers (host): Georgia Mules & Country Boys
Charlie Walker: Does Ft. Worth Ever Cross Your Mind
Opry Square Dance Band/Melvin Sloan Dancers: Golden Slippers
Steve Thomas: Sally Goodin

11:00: Coca-Cola
Hank Snow (host): Vanishing Breed
Connie Smith: You've Got Me Right Where You Want Me
Ray Pillow: Stranger Things Have Happened
Justin Tubb: Lonesome 7-7203
Roy Drusky: There'll Never Be Anyone Else But You For Me
Hank Snow: Ol' Shep

11:30: Creamette
Johnny Russell: Got No Reason Now for Going Home
Bill Carlisle: Same Old Tale That the Crow Told Me
Charlie Louvin: Will You Visit Me on Sundays
David Houston: Livin' In A House Full of Love
Jan Howard: Wind Beneath my Winds
Johnny Russell: No One Will Ever Know

What a great night for the Opry and I hope everyone enjoys the Opry this weekend. 

Happy Birthday Grand Ole Opry!!!!

Tuesday Night Opry 10/4-Chris Janson New Opry Member?

In looking at the line-up for the Tuesday Night Opry on October 4, I am going to throw out this theory that we might see an invitation that night for Chris Janson to become the newest member of the Grand Ole Opry:

• He is the last guest of the night, performing the final 15 minute segment. The previous Tuesday night shows have seen him slotted before the intermission. If you are going to ask someone to join, it seems to reason it would happen in the last segment, so that you send the audience home on a high point and no act has to follow. 
• Chris badly wants to join the Opry and has guested on the show over 100 times. And we know that he has actually asked to become an Opry member. 
• There has been no new Opry member for 2 years, the last being Little Big Town, in October 2014. The Opry is down to 61 members, the lowest number in decades. 
• Finally, and some have mentioned this and I did check: each year when a fan signs up for the Opry Birthday Package, there is a printed card that is sent as part of the package, with signatures of all the Opry members. On this year's card, in addition to the Opry members, there is one additional signature, that of Chris Janson. Interesting to say the least. Why would they include Chris unless the plan was for him to be a member by the birthday weekend. This Tuesday night is the final Opry show before the 91st birthday bash, so if it was going to happen, it would be on Tuesday night. 

Just some interesting thoughts on this

As to the entire line-up: 

7:00: Riders In The Sky; Smithfield

7:30: Elle King; Dierks Bentley

Intermission

8:15: The Whites; Michael Ray

8:45: Bobby Bones & The Raging Idiots; Chris Janson

My last thought on the line-up is that if you are bringing in a non-country act such as Elle King, who will be performing with Dierks Bentley their hit duet, you would think those would be the two to close out the show. 

Anyways, I will be listening with the rest to hear what happens. You never know. 

October Opry Highlights

October has traditionally been one of the more active months in the history of the Grand Ole Opry. Lots of important and historical events have taken place during the month involving the Opry or Opry members. So here are those events and dates: 

October 25, 1912: Sarah Ophelia Colley was born. Known to the world as Minnie Pearl, Minnie first appeared on the Opry in November 1940 and was an Opry member for more than 50 years until her death in March 1996. Comedy has become a lost art at the Opry but in her time, Minnie Pearl was one of the best. 

October 20, 1913: Louis Marshall Jones was born in Henderson County, Kentucky. Louis was an Opry member for over 50 years and was known for his comedy and banjo playing. He was also known nationally for his work on Hee Haw. He is also a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame. If the name Louis Marshall Jones doesn't ring a bell, perhaps his stage name will: Grandpa Jones. 

October 5, 1925: WSM radio went on the air. Edwin Craig was given the honor of starting off that broadcast, and he did with a few simple words: "This is WSM. We Shield Millions. The National Life and Accident Company." National Life President C.A. Craig dedicated the station to public service. Among the guests that night was George D. Hay, who would later be hired at WSM as the program director and later start the WSM Barn Dance. 

October 27, 1934: The Grand Ole Opry moved from Studio C at the National Life Building, home of WSM, to the Hillsboro Theater. The move was made because of the larger crowds that wanted to see the Grand Ole Opry in person. The Hillsboro Theater sat 2,400 and also offered the performers dressing rooms. Because the Opry was now being performed before a live audience, the artists were told to dress for the performances. That meant they were to wear rural clothes that reflected the image of a down home country show. That night also marked the beginning of Vito Pellettiere as the Opry's stage manager. Vito would hold that position until his death in 1977 and he was the one who helped bring organization to the Opry, including segments with sponsors and specific times for performers to appear. There are some who have felt that Vito is the most important person in the history of the Opry. 

October 9, 1937: Roy Acuff made his debut performance on the Opry. He was invited to appear on the program, as an audition. While his initial performance was nothing to write home about, he would be invited back and would join the Opry cast the following year. 

October 14, 1939: The NBC Radio Network began to carry a half hour segment of the Opry, which was sponsored by the R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company to promote its Prince Albert brand. Roy Acuff was the host. On that first show, Opry announcer David Stone did the opening and introduced Roy Acuff and his group, who played the theme song, "Have A Big Time Tonight." Along with George D. Hay, the first show included Uncle Dave Macon, George Wilkerson and his Fruit Jar Drinkers, DeFord Bailey, Brother Oswald, and the rest of Roy's group. Over time, the Prince Albert portion would become the most famous Opry segment and after initially beginning on only 26 network stations primarily in the south, would extend across the entire NBC radio network. 

October 28, 1939: Bill Monroe became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. On his first night, Bill performed "Muleskinner Blues." Opry founder George D. Hay was so impressed with Bill and his new sound that he told Bill that if he ever wanted to leave the Opry, he would have to fire himself. Thankfully he never did and Bill would remain with the Opry until his death in September 1996. 

October 17, 1953: Carl Butler made his Grand Ole Opry debut. Later with his wife Pearl, he would join the Opry cast. 

October 2, 1954: Elvis Presley made his first and only appearance as a guest on the Opry. He sang Bill Monroe's "Blue Moon of Kentucky." Reports have said that Elvis received only modest applause after his performance, which was not that unusual at the Opry. Legend also has it that when he finished, Jim Denny told Elvis that he should go back to driving a truck. While Elvis never did go back to truck driving, over the years there has been some doubt if Jim Denny actually made those comments or if they just became another Opry story. What ever did happen that night, Jim Denny nor anyone else ever invited Elvis back to the Opry. One person who was impressed by Elvis was Bill Monroe, especially after seeing the size of the royalty checks he began to receive after Elvis recorded "Blue Moon of Kentucky."

October 22, 1955: Jim Reeves became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Over time, he would become one of the Opry's biggest stars, but like so many others, he came to the realization of the limitations of being an Opry member and would move on. His last Opry appearance was in June 1963. 

October 29, 1955: For what would be a very short run, Slim Whitman became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. 

October 19, 1956: Stonewall Jackson was given an audition at the Opry. He passed with flying colors and was invited to perform on the show, eventually becoming a member on November 3, 1956.

October 15, 1960: Loretta Lynn made her first Opry guest appearance. The Wilburn Brothers were instrumental in getting her that guest spot and she appeared that night on a segment hosted by Ernest Tubb. At the time, Loretta did not have a band so Leslie Wilburn played base and Lester Wilburn played rhythm guitar. Just like in the movie, she sang, "I'm A Honky-Tonk Girl." The Opry was impressed and after numerous guest appearances, Loretta would be asked to become an Opry member. 

October 20, 1962: Leroy Van Dyke became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Like many others, Leroy would only be an Opry member for a couple of years. After he left, Leroy would continue to make occasional guest appearances. 

October 27, 1962: Sonny James, "The Southern Gentleman" became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. 

October 23, 1965: Roy Acuff Jr. made his first appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. With his father watching off to the side, Roy Jr. sang "Baby Just Said Goodbye." His recording and performing work showed the promise of a career in country music, however he preferred to work behind the scenes and his public performing soon ended. 

October 14, 1966: Del Reeves is introduced by Porter Wagoner as the newest member of the Grand Ole Opry. It was a very emotional night for Del, as his parents were in the audience to witness this great event. Del was unable to make it though his song, as he broke down and could not finish. Del would remain as a popular member of the Opry until his death in January 2007. 

October 21, 1967: The Browns, Jim Ed, Maxine and Bonnie, gave their final performance as members of the Grand Ole Opry. While Bonnie and Maxine would retire in order to be at home with their families, Jim Ed would continue as an Opry member until his death in 2015. The sisters would come back many times to perform with Jim Ed on the Opry, and at other venues. The Browns had a big impact on country music and after a long wait, were elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2015.

October 6, 1968: Former WSM executive Harry Stone passed away at the age of 70. The influence that Harry Stone had at the Opry was great, perhaps even more so than George D. Hay. While the founder wanted to keep the Opry simple and down to earth, featuring local and regional musicians, Harry wanted to move the show forward by hiring established and professional stars. While Hay was away from the Opry for a period of time due to personal issues, Harry moved ahead with his plan and as a result, there was great conflict between the two. In 1932, Harry became the general manager of WSM, which meant he was George D. Hay's boss. Among the first acts that he brought to the Opry were Pee Wee King and Roy Acuff, followed by Eddy Arnold. He saw what the Opry could do for National Life and WSM on a national level and thanks to his leadership, the Opry survived while other country barn dance shows failed. 

October 19, 1968: In an interview with the Nashville Tennessean, WSM President Irving Waugh said that the Opry's days at the Ryman Auditorium were numbered. The article stated, "The initiation of plans for the relocation of the Opry, possibly as the center of a multi-million dollar hotel and amusement complex, was announced at a breakfast at Municipal Auditorium sponsored by WSM." Irving Waugh said, "Our feeling is that the Grand Ole Opry needs a new, modern facility. It is estimated the center, which would be called Opryland USA, would require between one hundred fifty and two hundred acres of land. The location would not be in the Music Row area." Over time, details would be announced and the Opry would leave Nashville for a rural location at Opryland USA. 

October 16, 1971: Freddie Hart made his first guest appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. This was also the night of the Opry's 46th birthday celebration. 

October 27, 1973: Comedian Jerry Clower became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. He was the last member to join the Opry cast before the Opry moved from the Ryman Auditorium to the new Grand Ole Opry House. When he joined the Opry, comedy was still a huge part of the show and he joined a cast that included Minnie Pearl, Archie Campbell, Grandpa Jones and Lonzo & Oscar. 

October 18, 1975: The Grand Ole Opry celebrated it's 50th anniversary with a star studded weekend. In fact, the 50th anniversary show is considered one of the biggest in the history of the Opry. 

October 16, 1982: Opry member Doyle Wilburn passed away in Nashville at the age of 52. The Wilburn Brothers, Teddy and Doyle, first came to the Opry as children in the 1940s, however they were forced to leave due to child labor laws. They later came back, becoming members in 1953.

October 29, 1982: Alabama made their first appearance as a guest artist on the Opry. 

October 24, 1983: Grand Ole Opry member, and one of the originals, Kirk McGee passed away. Along with his brother Sam, Kirk made his first Opry appearance in 1926, back when the show was called the WSM Barn Dance. Over the years, he would be a part of the Dixieliners and the Fruit Jar Drinkers, in addition to performing with his brother. His last Opry show had been the previous Saturday night. 

October 19, 1985: Lonzo & Oscar made their final appearance as members of the Grand Ole Opry. Rollin Sullivan, who was Oscar, originally came to the Opry in 1942. Over the years there were three different Lonzos, starting with Ken Marvin, followed by Rollin's brother Johnny and finally David Hooten. 

October 3, 1989: Opry member Del Wood passed away in Nashville after suffering a stroke several weeks earlier. Del, whose real name was Adelaide Hazelwood, joined the Opry in 1953. Del was famous for her ragtime piano playing and her #1 record, "Down Yonder."

October 14, 1989: Holly Dunn became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Holly would remain an Opry member until retiring from performing and leaving the music business to move to New Mexico as an artist. 

October 28, 1989: Grand Ole Opry member Bill Monroe celebrated 50 years as a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Among those appearing on the televised segment to honor Bill, which was hosted by Grant Turner, were Emmylou Harris and Larry Cordle. 

October 9, 1990: Garth Brooks became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. This will be Garth's 26th year as an Opry member. As Garth continues with his world tour, hopefully he will find some time to visit the Opry. 

October 4, 1991: Diamond Rio made their first appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. 7 years later in 1998, the would become Opry members. 

October 19, 1991: Grand Ole Opry announcer Grant Turner passed away hours after announcing the Friday Night Opry. He was the dean of Opry announcers and had been at WSM since 1944. He also hosted the Opry's warm-up show and was an announcer for the Ernest Tubb Midnight Jamboree. He is also a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame. 

October 24, 1991: Gaylord Entertainment Company, owners of WSM and the Grand Ole Opry, listed its stock on the New York Stock Exchange for the first time. Many have said that this was the event that started the downfall of the Opry as the company went public after years of private ownership, with more of a focus on the bottom line profitability. 

October 23, 1992: Roy Acuff made his final Grand Ole Opry appearance. It was a Friday night show and he did his segment sitting in a directors chair. He had appeared the previous weekend as part of the Opry's annual birthday celebration and that would turn out to be his final Saturday night show. He was hospitalized days later and would pass away the following month. 

October 15, 2000: The Grand Ole Opry celebrated it's 75th birthday with four shows that weekend, including two on Saturday night that featured the majority of the Opry's members including Garth Brooks, Vince Gill and Dolly Parton. On a personal note, I would say that the shows that weekend were probably the strongest and best line-ups of any Opry show that I have attended. 

October 4, 2003: The Grand Ole Opry is televised for the first time on Great American Country (GAC). The Opry moved to this network after spending several years on Country Music Television (CMT).

October 25, 2003: Del McCoury became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. This will be his 13th year as an Opry member. On the night he joined, Patty Loveless did the induction. 

October 1, 2005: Dierks Bentley became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. This will be his 11th year as an Opry member. He made his Opry debut in April 2003 and is a former employee of The Nashville Network. On the night he joined, Marty Stuart handled his induction. 

October 15, 2005: The Grand Ole Opry celebrated its 80th birthday. Garth Brooks marked the occasion by coming out of retirement to perform on the Opry for the first time in five years. He was joined on stage by Hall of Fame members Bill Anderson, Jimmy Dickens and Porter Wagoner, along with good friend Steve Wariner. 

October 27, 2007: Josh Turner became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. This will be Josh's 9th year as an Opry member. Josh had made numerous guest appearances before being asked to join the cast by fellow Opry member Roy Clark. 

October 28, 2007: Grand Ole Opry member Porter Wagoner passed away in Nashville. He was 80. One of the most popular members in the history of the Opry, Porter had celebrated his 50th anniversary as an Opry member just several months prior. Not only was he a great solo artist, but he was also known for his duets with Dolly Parton. 

October 25, 2008: Craig Morgan became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Inducted by John Conlee, Craig is celebrating his 8th year of Opry membership. 

October 22, 2010: Blake Shelton joined the cast of the Grand Ole Opry. This will be his 6th year as an Opry member. 

October 8, 2011: During the Opry's 86th birthday celebration, Rascal Flatts became the Grand Ole Opry's newest members. Among those on hand that night to welcome the group was Vince Gill. 

October 16, 2012: Darius Rucker became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. He had been invited to join the cast by member Brad Paisley. This will be his 4th year as an Opry member. 

October 23, 2012: The Grand Ole Opry honored the memory of Minnie Pearl, on what would have been her 100th birthday. Among those included in the tribute that night were Amy Grant, Vince Gill, Pam Tillis and Mel Tillis. 

October 3, 2014: During a guest appearance on the Friday Night Opry, Little Big Town was surprised by Reba McEntire, who invited the group to become the newest members of the Grand Ole Opry. Of course they said yes and were inducted later that month, on October 17. 

There you have it for the month of October. 

Grand Ole Opry 9/30 & 10/1

Saturday begins the month of October. Who remembers when October was called Country Music Month? I can remember all the local radio stations playing it up big, and the CMA Awards always taking place during the month. The Grand Ole Opry celebrated it's birthday and there was the Disc Jockey convention, where all the local DJs would come to town to meet the stars. Well, times have changed. The CMA Awards are now held in November (sweeps month for television), the Disc Jockey convention is no more and Country Music Month is a thing of the past. All that is left is the Opry's annual birthday bash, which takes place next weekend, and even that is almost a thing of the past as it really is no longer a special weekend. 

What October does bring is a return to two Saturday night Opry shows, which will start this weekend and continue into December. In looking at the line-ups for the Saturday night shows, they are identical with the exception of The Whites scheduled for just the first show and Bobby Osborne for only the late show. Personally, I don't understand why those Opry members are not scheduled for both. I am sure somewhere there is a reason why. The Opry members who are scheduled for both Saturday shows, and who are also scheduled for the Friday Night Opry, are Jeannie Seely, Mike Snider, John Conlee, Connie Smith and Riders In The Sky. The only additional Opry members will be Diamond Rio, who will close out the Friday night show. 

Guesting on all three shows will be Shenandoah. It seems like since they re-emerged earlier this year, they have made the Opry a regular stop. Joining that group on Friday will be Jaida Dreyer, Jimmy Wayne, Ashley Campbell, Collin Raye and J2B2, otherwise known as the John Jorgenson Bluegrass Band. Saturday's guest, besides Shenandoah, include JT Hodges, Jessie James Decker, Jonathan Jackson and The Isaacs. 

Friday September 30
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Jaida Dreyer; Mike Snider
7:30: John Conlee (host); Jimmy Wayne; Shenandoah
Intermission
8:15: Connie Smith (host); Ashley Campbell; Collin Raye
8:45: Riders In The Sky (host); J2B2(John Jorgenson Bluegrass Band); Diamond Rio

Saturday October 1
1st show
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); JT Hodges; Mike Snider
7:30: John Conlee (host); Shenandoah; The Whites
8:00: Connie Smith (host); Jessie James Decker; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Jonathan Jackson; The Isaacs

2nd show
9:30: Jeannie Seely (host); JT Hodges; Mike Snider
10:00: John Conlee (host); Shenandoah; Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press
10:30: Connie Smith (host); Jessie James Decker; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Riders In The Sky (host); Jonathan Jackson; The Isaacs

I am going to assume that Pete Fisher will read the dedication and tribute to Jean Shepard before the show on Saturday night. 

And now, here is the posted Grand Ole Opry line-up from five years ago, the weekend of September 30 & October 1, 2011:

Friday September 30
7:00: Mike Snider (host); Jimmy C Newman; Lonesome River Band
7:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jesse McReynolds; The McClymonts
Intermission
8:15: The Whites (host); Rebecca Lynn Howard; Josh Kelley
8:45: Jim Ed Brown (host); T.G. Sheppard; Exile

Saturday October 1
1st show
7:00: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jimmy C Newman; Jason Jones
7:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Jack Greene; Sarah Darling
8:00: Jean Shepard (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; James Wesley; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); Laura Bell Bundy; T.G. Sheppard

2nd show
9:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); The Whites; Jason Jones
10:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Grand Master Fiddle Champion; Sarah Darling
10:30: Jean Shepard (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; James Wesley; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Jim Ed Brown (host); Laura Bell Bundy; T.G. Sheppard

Now from ten years ago, the weekend of September 29 & 30, 2011:

Friday September 29
8:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Jimmy C Newman; Jennifer Hanson
8:30: John Conlee (host); Connie Smith; The Isaacs
9:00: Ricky Skaggs (host); The Whites; Riders In The Sky
9:30: Trace Adkins (host); Jan Howard; Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Johnny Lee

Saturday September 30
1st show
6:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); The Whites; Ray Scott
7:00: Ricky Skaggs (host); The Grascals; Rhonda Vincent; Cherryholmes
8:00: John Conlee (host); Jim Ed Brown; Opry Square Dancers
8:30: Bill Anderson (host); Jack Greene; Mandy Barnett

2nd show
9:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jimmy C Newman; Mandy Barnett
10:00: John Conlee (host); Ray Scott; Rhonda Vincent
10:30: Ricky Skaggs (host); The Whites; Opry Square Dancers
11:00: Bill Anderson (host); Jack Greene; Cherryholmes
11:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; The Grascals

Finally, from 25 years ago, Saturday September 28, 1991:

1st show
6:30: Bill Anderson (host); Wilma Lee Cooper
6:45: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jeannie Seely
7:00: Jack Greene (host); Bill Carlisle; Charlie Walker; The Whites
7:30: Tom T Hall (host); Jim & Jesse; Sawyer Brown
8:00: Roy Acuff (host); Charlie Louvin; Jean Shepard; Ferlin Husky; Opry Square Dance Band; Stoney Mountain Cloggers
8:30: Hank Snow (host); Osborne Brothers; Roy Drusky; Jan Howard; Jimmy C Newman

2nd show
9:30: Jack Greene (host); Ernie Ashworth; Ray Pillow; Sawyer Brown
10:00: Tom T Hall (host); Jeannie Seely
10:15: Roy Acuff (host); Jean Shepard
10:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); The Whites
10:45: Osborne Brothers (host); Charlie Walker; Opry Square Dance Band; Stoney Mountain Cloggers
11:00: Hank Snow (host); Jimmy C Newman; Justin Tubb; Jim & Jesse; Bill Carlisle
11:30: Bill Anderson (host); Roy Drusky; Jan Howard; Charlie Louvin

On a final note, let's go back 50 years to Saturday October 1, 1966:

7:30: Luzianne
Bobby Lord (host): Out Behind the Barn
Willis Brothers: Tumbling Tumbleweed
Margie Bowes: Enough to Make A Woman Lose Her Mind
Del Wood: Cajun Stripper
Bobby Lord: Lonely Street
Jim Nesbitt: Heck of a Fix in 66
Willis Brothers: Private Lee
Margie Bowes: Overnight
Bobby Lord: Hawkeye

8:00: Martha White
Flatt & Scruggs (host): Mama, You've Been on My Mind
Bobby Bare: The Streets of Baltimore
Dottie West: Mommy, Can I Still Call Him Daddy
Lonzo & Oscar: Mountain Dew
Flatt & Scruggs: Call Me on Home, Too
Crook Brothers: Ida Red
Earl Scruggs: Home Sweet Home

8:30: Stephens
Wilburn Brothers (host): It's Another World
Loretta Lynn: You Ain't Woman Enough
Jim & Jesse: Don't Let Nobody Tie You Down
Archie Campbell: Hey, Waiter
Wilburn Brothers: Roll Muddy River
Stu Phillips: Faded Love
Loretta Lynn: Two Mules Pull this Wagon
Wilburn Brothers & Loretta Lynn: Put It Off Until Tomorrow

9:00: Pet Milk
Roy Acuff (host): Low & Lonely
The Browns: I'd Just Be Fool Enough
Connie Smith: The Hurting's All Over
Fruit Jar Drinkers: (?)
Roy Acuff: The End of the World
The Browns: I Keep Coming Back to You
Connie Smith: Nobody But A Fool
Oswald: Roll On Buddy

9:30: Kellogg's
Hank Snow (host): I'm Moving On
Willis Brothers: Big Daddy's Alabammy Bound
Pete Sayers: The Little Stream of Whiskey
Chubby Wise: Peacock Rag
Hank Snow: There's A Fool Such As I
Bill Price: Are You Lonely Without Me
Willis Brothers: Diamonds on Your Hands
Hank Snow: Breakfast With the Blues

10:00: Schick
Flatt & Scruggs (host): The Good Things
Margie Bowes: Enough to Make a Woman Lose Her Mind
Del Wood: Big Daddy
Flatt & Scruggs: Cabin on the Hill

10:15: Pure
Roy Acuff (host): Greenback Dollar
Archie Campbell: Scarlet Ribbons
Onie Wheeler: I'm Just A Beggar for Your Love
Roy Acuff: Glory's Coming

10:30: Harvey's
Jim & Jesse (host): I'll Wear the Banner
Dottie West: Mommy, Can I Still Call Him Daddy
Bobby Thompson: Sugarfoot Rag
Wilburn Brothers: In God's Eyes

10:45: Newport
Wilburn Brothers (host): I'm Gonna Tie One On Tonight
Loretta Lynn: Happy Birthday
Crook Brothers: Chicken Reel
Wilburn Brothers: Knoxville Girl

11:00: Coca-Cola
Hank Snow (host): The Count Down
The Browns: The 3 Bells
Bobby Bare: Detroit City
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Fire on the Mountain
Hank Snow: I've Cried A Mile
Lonzo & Oscar: Country Music Time
Sam McGee: Wheels
The Browns: I Keep Coming Back to You
Hank Snow: I've Been Everywhere

11:30: Lava
Marty Robbins (host): Ribbon of Darkness
Connie Smith: Invisible Tears
Pete Sayers: The Man Who Never Returned
Don Winters: Chime Bells
Marty Robbins: The Shoe Goes on the Other Foot Tonight
Connie Smith: I'll Be There
Marty Robbins: Don't Worry/Singing the Blues/Devil Woman

There are a couple of names from that night that many fans may not recognize. One is Jim Nesbitt. Jim was born on December 1, 1931 and passed away on November 29, 2007. He recorded for Dot and Chart Records with his biggest hit being "Looking for More in 64" which went to #7 on the charts. He seemed to have a thing about putting the year in his song titles, as he recorded "Still Alive in 65," "Heck of a Fix in 66," "Clean the Slate in 68," and "Having Fun in 71." As you can guess, his songs had a bit of comedy in them. His last recordings took place in 1975. 

Bobby Thompson was considered a brilliant, innovative banjo player and rhythm guitarist. While his name was not widely known, his playing was heard by millions. Bobby was born in Converse, South Carolina in 1937 and was just past 20 when he participated in the "epochal" late 1950s Starday recordings of Jim & Jesse, "epochal" in part because they included, especially on the instrumentals "Border Ride" and "Dixie Hoedown," the first recorded glimmerings of what would become an alternative to the foundational bluegrass banjo style of Earl Scruggs. Vic Jordan and Bela Fleck are two future banjo players that followed Bobby's lead. Earl Scruggs said, "I think Thompson has done a lot for the banjo. He was the first one to play that style of banjo that I ever heard. And there has never been anyone to top him." Later in life, Bobby was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. While he spent many years working with Jim & Jesse, Bobby was known as a great session player and was also part of the staff band on Hee Haw. He joined fellow session players like Charlie McCoy and Weldon Myrick to create Area Code 615, which recorded two albums that meshed country, rock, bluegrass and more. The group was featured on several television shows, including "The Johnny Cash Show." Bobby passed away in 2005.

The final name of interest was that of Pete Sayers. Pete was from England, born in 1942. He was known as a singer and multi-talented musician. He was also a trained piano repairer. In 1966, he was the host of a television program, "Tyne-Tees Television." He also appeared with US singer Johnny Duncan and his Blue Grass Boys. That same year, he came to American and was employed as a warm-up artist for the Grand Ole Opry, often appearing on the show itself. He also hosted a morning show and toured with Kitty Wells and Flatt & Scruggs. In 1972 he returned to England and began promoting country music shows, later working tours with George Hamilton IV when George appeared in England. Peter passed away in 2005. 

I hope everyone enjoys the Opry this weekend!!!

Jean Shepard

Country Music Hall of Fame member Jean Shepard passed away earlier this morning. She had been in declining health for the past several months and had recently gone into hospice care. Jean was a member of the Grand Ole Opry for just over 60 years, one of only three Opry members to have marked that milestone, and the only female. Her last Grand Ole Opry appearance was last November, when she was recognized on her 60th anniversary as an Opry member.

Jean was a trailblazer as a female artist in country music. When she began recording at Capital Records with producer Ken Nelson in 1952, there was no precedent in country music for a young woman recording and touring on her own rather than as a member of a family team, couple, or as a band's "girl singer."

She was born in Oklahoma and grew up in Visalia, California. She was one of ten children in a family that loved music and that listened to the Opry on the radio. Hank Thompson spotted her when she was just 14 years old, singing and playing bass in an all-girl band she'd formed called the Melody Ranch Girls. Hank was the one who brought her to the attention of Capital Records. Prior to coming to the Opry in 1955, she was a star on Red Foley's Ozark Jubilee.

While never having the number of hit records as other female artists, such as Patsy Cline, Loretta Lynn or Tammy Wynette, Jean set the table for each of these females, and the ones who followed. And I don't think she received the attention for that as much as she deserved. Today's young female artists owe her a great debt.

Jean loved traditional, honky-tonk country music and was often quoted on her thoughts regarding today's country music. She was not kind. She was blunt and spoke the truth. Many times she made her feelings known as to the direction that the Opry was taking. Yet pretty much every week, Jean was there, keeping traditional country music alive.

As another Opry legend, and a link to the past, has passed away, all of us who enjoyed Jean and her music will remember the times we saw and heard Jean. And we will do it with a smile on our face as we will remember Jean and what she stood for.

Prayers and thoughts go to Jean's family and friends as they prepare to honor the memory of Jean Shepard.