After spending the winter months at the Ryman Auditorium, the Grand Ole Opry returns to the Grand Ole Opry House this weekend with what is being called the Opry Homecoming. The line-up is pretty solid as on Friday night, Grand Ole Opry member Carrie Underwood is scheduled. Also on the line-up are the Blue Sky Riders, which includes Kenny Loggins. They have performed at the Opry before. Nashville television show star Charles Esten will also be making another Opry appearance as the cross-promotion continues. Saturday night's Grand Ole Opry will feature guest artists Scotty McCreery and The Band Perry, along with The Henningsens and Kristen Kelly.
For the big "Homecoming" there are only 11 acts scheduled each night, with 7 Opry members on Friday night and only 6 members on Saturday night. Originally Jimmy Dickens and Roy Clark were scheduled to appear this weekend, but both have cancelled out. For Jimmy, he has been missing from the Opry since December, and he is listed as returning next weekend. Also, you will notice that there is no Blake Shelton again this week. I assume he is still an Opry member as the publicity from his recent comments has died out. I think it can be safely assumed that the Opry is not going to do anything regarding Blake's Opry membership.
Friday February 1:
7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); The Whites; Charles Esten
7:30: Mike Snider (host); Sarah Darling; Gloriana
Intermission
8:15: Bill Anderson (host); Blue Sky Riders (Kenny Loggins, Georgia Middleman and Gary Burr)
8:45: John Conlee (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Carrie Underwood
Saturday February 2:
7:00: Jim Ed Brown (host); Kristen Kelly; Connie Smith
7:30: Mike Snider (host); Jean Shepard; The Band Perry
Intermission
8:15: John Conlee (host); Holly Williams; The Henningsens; Opry Square Dancers
8:45: Bill Anderson (host); Scotty McCreery
The Ernest Tubb Midnight Jamboree returns to live shows this Saturday night/Sunday morning with Rhonda Vincent as the host. Too bad that the Opry didn't invite Rhonda to perform on Saturday night. I would have thought they could have made some room for her.
For the look back at Opry history for this week, I go to Saturday February 2, 1980, which was 33 years ago this Saturday night. There were 2 shows on that Saturday night.
1st show
6:30: Mrs Grissoms
David Houston (host): Lord, Don't Give Up On Me
Justin Tubb: Take A Letter Miss Gray
David Houston: My Elusive Dreams
6:45: Rudy's
Charlie Walker (host): Don't Play Me No Songs About Texas
Billy Grammer: Rose of Old Pawnee
Del Wood: 12th St. Rag
Charlie Walker: San Antonio Rose
7:00: Shoney's
Porter Wagoner (host): Ole Slewfoot
Wilma Lee Cooper: As Long As I Live
Lonzo & Oscar: Up This Hill and Down
Vic Willis: American Trilogy
Ernie Ashworth: There's No Place I'd Rather Be Tonight
Porter Wagoner: Everything I've Always Wanted
Porter Wagoner: Cold Hard Facts of Life/Carroll County Accident/Green, Green Grass of Home
7:30: Standard Candy
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Jean Shepard: I Think I'll Go Somewhere & Cry Myself to Sleep/Slippin Away
Jim & Jesse: Let Me Whisper
Crook Brothers/Stoney Mountain Cloggers: Gray Eagle
Roy Acuff: Carry Me Back to the Mountains/I Saw the Light
8:00: Martha White
Billy Walker (host): When A Man Loves A Woman
Connie Smith: When I Need Jesus He's There/Sing, Sing, Sing
Ray Pillow: Hungry Man's Dreams
Stu Phillips: Oh, Canada
Billy Walker: You Turn My Love Light On
8:30: Acme
Hank Snow (host): I'm Moving On
Jeanne Pruett: Satin Sheets/Back to Back
4 Guys: Mama Rocked Us To Sleep With Country Music
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Cacklin Hen
Hank Snow & Kelly Foxton: Hasn't It Been Good Together
2nd show
9:30: Kelloggs
Porter Wagoner (host): Tennessee Saturday Night
Lonzo & Oscar: Family Bible
David Houston: Lord, Don't Give Up On Me
Del Wood: Ballin' the Jack
Porter Wagoner: Satisfied Mind/I Thought I Heard You Calling My Name/Your Old Love Letters
Porter Wagoner: Ole Slewfoot/Everything I've Always Wanted
10:00: Little Debbie
Billy Grammer (host): My Little Snow Deer/Silver Bells/Rainbow
Wilma Lee Cooper: A Daisy A Day
Ernie Ashworth: Each Moment Spent With You
Billy Grammer: Columbus Stockade Blues
10:15: Union 76
Roy Acuff (host): Meeting in the Air
Charlie Walker: Pick Me Up On Your Way Down
Roy Acuff: The Great Speckled Bird
Howdy Forrester & Jimmy Riddle: Jesse Polka
Roy Acuff: I'll Fly Away
10:30: Trailblazer
Billy Walker (host): Don't Stop in My World
Jean Shepard: Slippin Away
Vic Willis: You Feel Good All Over
Billy Walker: You Turn My Love Light On
10:45: Beech-nut
Ray Pillow (host): Super Lady
Jim & Jesse: Paradise
Crook Brothers/Stoney Mountain Cloggers: Lafayette
Ray Pillow: Another Day; Another Dollar
11:00: Coca-Cola
Hank Snow (host): My Nova Scotia Home
Connie Smith: When God Dips His Love Into My Heart
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Nubbing Ridge
Justin Tubb: Travelin' Singing Man
Kirk McGee: Blue Night
Hank Snow & Kelly Foxton: After The Love Is Gone
11:30: Tennessee Pride
4 Guys (host): Let Your Love Flow
Jeanne Pruett: Break My Mind/Back to Back
Stu Phillips: Great El Tigrae/Crystal Chandeliers
4 Guys: Daytime Friends/Fire
Nationally recognized independent Grand Ole Opry historian Byron Fay offers news and comments regarding country music's premier show.
Thursday, January 31, 2013
Thursday, January 24, 2013
The Grand Ole Opry Needs To Fire Blake Shelton
As many of you are aware of, Grand Ole Opry member Blake Shelton made some very disparaging remarks about traditional country fans in a recent interview with GAC as part of their Backstory series. Here is the direct quote from Blake:
"If I am 'Male Vocalist of the Year' that must mean that I'm one of those people now that gets to decide if it moves forward or if it moves on. Country music has to evolve in order to survive. Nobody wants to listen to their grandpa's music. And I don't care how many of these old farts around Nashville going, 'My God, that ain't country!' Well that's because you don't buy records anymore, jackass. The kids do, and they don't want to buy the music you were buying."
As an article that I read stated, Blake Shelton's comments are not only hurtful to classic and traditional country fans, they are incorrect. According to a study of country radio conducted by Edison Research and released during last year's Country Radio Seminar in Nashville, listeners actually want more classic country on radio, and the lack of it has been given credit for the contraction being experienced in the radio format. Blake's comments also specifically mentions "records," but the statistics show that older country music listeners are the ones that still buy music in physical formats, while younger listeners tend to download music illegally, stream it at very low margins for artists and their labels, or purchase individual songs.
Furthermore, Blake Shelton brought up the common misconception that classic and traditional country fans do not want country music to evolve. Though this may be true for some traditional fans, as Saving Country Music pointed out in a piece titled "Progress Vs Traditionalism in Country Music," the progression of country music while still keeping it tied to its roots is the foundation of Americana which has benefited from tremendous growth over the last few years.
This is not the first time that Blake Shelton has landed in hot water over some of this comments. In May 2011 he was accused of advocating violence against gays by re-writing the words to a Shania Twain song. He also is noted for the use of fowl language on his twitter account.
Since this morning, a number of country music stars have spoken out against Blake and his comments, including Ray Price, Ray Stevens and Dale Watson. Since then, some comments have been taken down from Blake's facebook page and there are reports of at least several radio stations pulling his songs out of their play rotations.
While he responded to Ray Price and tried to say that he didn't mean to offend anyone, he did not take back any of his comments and tried to justify that statements by saying he is doing the same thing that Ray did when he recorded "For The Goodtimes."
Blake Shelton is a member of the Grand Ole Opry. He was asked to join the cast in September 2010. You can tell how he feels about the Opry based on the fact that he made no Opry appearances last year. Since the Opry is built on the foundation of traditional country music, and most of their members sing traditional country music in some form, I really don't think Blake will have the guts to show himself around the Opry anytime soon. But if I were Pete Fisher, I would not give Blake the chance. I would fire Blake Shelton from the Opry immediately!!!! Think about it. Those that he is calling "old farts and jackass" are the ones purchasing the tickets to the show. Many of the artists appearing on the Opry set the table for him to succeed in country music. I wonder how his friend Trace Adkins feels about his comments?
Blake Shelton would not be the first artist to have been fired or not invited to appear on the Opry. We all know about Hank Williams III and his insult that he directed to the Opry. I put Blake's comments in that same class.
Many of us wondered why Pete Fisher asked him to join the Opry and questioned the decision at the time. I think many of us were correct in our thoughts. It is time for Pete to admit his mistake and to terminate Blake as an Opry member.
"If I am 'Male Vocalist of the Year' that must mean that I'm one of those people now that gets to decide if it moves forward or if it moves on. Country music has to evolve in order to survive. Nobody wants to listen to their grandpa's music. And I don't care how many of these old farts around Nashville going, 'My God, that ain't country!' Well that's because you don't buy records anymore, jackass. The kids do, and they don't want to buy the music you were buying."
As an article that I read stated, Blake Shelton's comments are not only hurtful to classic and traditional country fans, they are incorrect. According to a study of country radio conducted by Edison Research and released during last year's Country Radio Seminar in Nashville, listeners actually want more classic country on radio, and the lack of it has been given credit for the contraction being experienced in the radio format. Blake's comments also specifically mentions "records," but the statistics show that older country music listeners are the ones that still buy music in physical formats, while younger listeners tend to download music illegally, stream it at very low margins for artists and their labels, or purchase individual songs.
Furthermore, Blake Shelton brought up the common misconception that classic and traditional country fans do not want country music to evolve. Though this may be true for some traditional fans, as Saving Country Music pointed out in a piece titled "Progress Vs Traditionalism in Country Music," the progression of country music while still keeping it tied to its roots is the foundation of Americana which has benefited from tremendous growth over the last few years.
This is not the first time that Blake Shelton has landed in hot water over some of this comments. In May 2011 he was accused of advocating violence against gays by re-writing the words to a Shania Twain song. He also is noted for the use of fowl language on his twitter account.
Since this morning, a number of country music stars have spoken out against Blake and his comments, including Ray Price, Ray Stevens and Dale Watson. Since then, some comments have been taken down from Blake's facebook page and there are reports of at least several radio stations pulling his songs out of their play rotations.
While he responded to Ray Price and tried to say that he didn't mean to offend anyone, he did not take back any of his comments and tried to justify that statements by saying he is doing the same thing that Ray did when he recorded "For The Goodtimes."
Blake Shelton is a member of the Grand Ole Opry. He was asked to join the cast in September 2010. You can tell how he feels about the Opry based on the fact that he made no Opry appearances last year. Since the Opry is built on the foundation of traditional country music, and most of their members sing traditional country music in some form, I really don't think Blake will have the guts to show himself around the Opry anytime soon. But if I were Pete Fisher, I would not give Blake the chance. I would fire Blake Shelton from the Opry immediately!!!! Think about it. Those that he is calling "old farts and jackass" are the ones purchasing the tickets to the show. Many of the artists appearing on the Opry set the table for him to succeed in country music. I wonder how his friend Trace Adkins feels about his comments?
Blake Shelton would not be the first artist to have been fired or not invited to appear on the Opry. We all know about Hank Williams III and his insult that he directed to the Opry. I put Blake's comments in that same class.
Many of us wondered why Pete Fisher asked him to join the Opry and questioned the decision at the time. I think many of us were correct in our thoughts. It is time for Pete to admit his mistake and to terminate Blake as an Opry member.
Wednesday, January 23, 2013
Grand Ole Opry 1/25 & 1/26
The Grand Ole Opry concludes the winter run at the Ryman Auditorium this weekend with 2 shows. The Friday Night Opry has the usual 12 performers while the Grand Ole Opry has only 9 listed. It will be interesting to see if any other artists are scheduled, but like last weekend, I doubt if they will be Opry members.
While the Saturday show is low on numbers, the talent level is pretty good as Opry members Ronnie Milsap and the Oak Ridge Boys will be on. On February 6, Ronnie will be celebrating 37 years as an Opry member, so perhaps some mention will be made during the show. Each week it seems like someone from the cast of "Nashville" is on, and this weekend it will be Sam Palladio making a return visit. I will say that at least several of the stars of the television show do have talent and good voices and have added to the Opry.
The Friday Night Opry will feature another Opry visit from Ricky Skaggs. Ricky has been on the majority of Opry shows so far in 2013. Joining Ricky will be guest artists Sunny Sweeney, Joey+Rory, and a personal favorite of mine, Sarah Darling. I think Sarah is one of the bright new artists in the business. It is also nice to see The Isaacs making another Opry visit. And, as it has been since the 1st of the year, there is no Jimmy Dickens again this weekend. With the flu going around, and Tennessee among the states hard it, Jimmy is being very careful, as he should be at the age of 92. I would not be surprised to see him back next weekend, when the Opry returns to the Grand Ole Opry House.
Friday January 25:
7:00: Diamond Rio (host); Jimmy C Newman; Sunny Sweeney
7:30: John Conlee (host); Jean Shepard; Joey+Rory
Intermission
8:15: Riders In The Sky (host); Jim Ed Brown; Sarah Darling
8:45: Ricky Skaggs (host); The Whites; The Isaacs
Saturday January 26:
7:00: Diamond Rio (host); Connie Smith
7:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Ronnie Milsap
Intermission
8:15: Jeannie Seely (host); Jesse McReynolds; Sam Palladio; Opry Square Dancers
8:45: Bill Anderson (host); Oak Ridge Boys
Like I said, while light on numbers, there are 2 pretty good shows this weekend.
For this week's look back in Opry history, I have Saturday January 25, 1992. It was on this night 21 years ago that Emmylou Harris became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. I have to say that I enjoy Emmylou and she has done some great things in her career, but her commitment to the Opry is not one of them. When she joined the cast, I really thought that as someone who really understood the history of country music and the Opry, along with her love of the Louvin Brothers, she would be there more often. But like many others of her generation, she makes very few appearances. I find that sad as she lives in Nashville and is always around town. She does not tour as much as she used to. When she does appear on the Opry, it is usually when the show is at the Ryman Auditorium. When she does do the Orpy she is very well received and she seems to enjoy herself. I can remember one night a few years back when I was at the Ryman for an Opry show and Emmylou hosted a segment. She stayed on stage and backed up each group and danced with the square dancers. It was a fun segment. I think I speak for a lot of fans when I say that we need to see more of Emmylou at the Opry.
Here is the line-up from Saturday January 25, 1992, the night Emmylou Harris joined the Opry.
1st show
6:30: Opry Tours
Boxcar Willie (host): Train Melody
Jeanne Pruett: Temporarily Yours
Boxcar Willie: Cowboys & Horses; Hobos & Trains
6:45: Hall of Fame
Grandpa Jones (host): Apple Jack
4 Guys: Tennessee
Skeeter Davis: The End of the World
7:00: Shoney's
Porter Wagoner (host): You Gotta Have A License
John Conlee: I Don't Remember Loving You
Osborne Brothers: Nearer My God to Thee
Lorrie Morgan: Except for Monday/Autumns Not That Cold
Porter Wagoner: Wake Up Jacob
7:30: Standard Candy
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Vince Gill: Take Your Memory With You/When I Call Your Name/Drifting Too Far From the Shore
Emmylou Harris: Walls of Time/Blue Kentucky Girl
8:00: Martha White
Bill Monroe (host): Nine Pound Hammer
Jimmy Dickens: John Henry
The Whites: Doing it By the Book
Del Reeves: There She Goes
Opry Square Dance Band/Melvin Sloan Dancers: Bill Cheatham
Bill Monroe: Body and Soul
8:30: Opryland
Bill Anderson (host): Don't She Look Good
Jim Ed Brown: The 3 Bells
Jimmy C Newman: (?)
Riders In The Sky: Blue Shadows on the Trail
Jean Shepard: Gospel Melody
Bill Anderson: Still
2nd show
9:30: Dollar General
Porter Wagoner (host): Dooley
Billy Walker: Funny How Time Slips Away
John Conlee: Friday Night Blues
Emmylou Harris: Guitar Town
Emmylou Harris & Vince Gill: If You Needed Me
Porter Wagoner: Misery Loves Company
10:00: Little Debbie
Grandpa Jones (host): Ol Rattler
Charlie Louvin: The Precious Jewel
Wilma Lee Cooper: I Dreamed About Mama Last Night
Grandpa Jones: Arkansas Traveler
10:15: Tennessee Pride/Sunbeam
Roy Acuff (host): Once More
Ray Pillow: Please Don't Leave Me Anymore
George Hamilton IV: I'm Using My Bible For a Roadmap/Cabin in Gloryland
Dan Kelly: Sally Goodin
10:30: Pet Milk
Bill Monroe (host): True Life Blues
Roy Drusky: Too Old to Die Young
Boxcar Willie: Hobo Heaven
Bill Monroe: I'm Working on a Building
10:45: B.C. Powder
Jimmy Dickens (host): Take An Old Cold Tater and Wait
Vince Gill & Patty Loveless: When I Call Your Name
Opry Square Dance Band/Melvin Sloan Dancers: Lafayette
Jimmy Dickens: Life Turned Her That Way
11:00: Coca-Cola
Bill Anderson (host): You Can Have Her
Osborne Brothers: Low and Lonely
Jeannie Seely: Go Down Swinging
Stonewall Jackson: Side Steppin the Blues
Bill Carlisle: Too Old To Cut the Mustard
Bill Anderson: Golden Guitar
11:30: Creamette
Charlie Walker (host): Does Fort Worth Ever Cross Your Mind
Riders In The Sky: How Does He Yodel
The Whites: Swing Down, Chariot
Johnny Russell: No One Will Ever Know
Charlie Walker: Take Me Back To Tulsa
There you have it. And yes, all Opry members!! And 11 of the artists on the 2nd show did not do the 1st show, while 7 on the 1st show did not do the 2nd. That gave both shows good variety.
Congratulations to Emmylou Harris and 21 years of Opry membership.
While the Saturday show is low on numbers, the talent level is pretty good as Opry members Ronnie Milsap and the Oak Ridge Boys will be on. On February 6, Ronnie will be celebrating 37 years as an Opry member, so perhaps some mention will be made during the show. Each week it seems like someone from the cast of "Nashville" is on, and this weekend it will be Sam Palladio making a return visit. I will say that at least several of the stars of the television show do have talent and good voices and have added to the Opry.
The Friday Night Opry will feature another Opry visit from Ricky Skaggs. Ricky has been on the majority of Opry shows so far in 2013. Joining Ricky will be guest artists Sunny Sweeney, Joey+Rory, and a personal favorite of mine, Sarah Darling. I think Sarah is one of the bright new artists in the business. It is also nice to see The Isaacs making another Opry visit. And, as it has been since the 1st of the year, there is no Jimmy Dickens again this weekend. With the flu going around, and Tennessee among the states hard it, Jimmy is being very careful, as he should be at the age of 92. I would not be surprised to see him back next weekend, when the Opry returns to the Grand Ole Opry House.
Friday January 25:
7:00: Diamond Rio (host); Jimmy C Newman; Sunny Sweeney
7:30: John Conlee (host); Jean Shepard; Joey+Rory
Intermission
8:15: Riders In The Sky (host); Jim Ed Brown; Sarah Darling
8:45: Ricky Skaggs (host); The Whites; The Isaacs
Saturday January 26:
7:00: Diamond Rio (host); Connie Smith
7:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Ronnie Milsap
Intermission
8:15: Jeannie Seely (host); Jesse McReynolds; Sam Palladio; Opry Square Dancers
8:45: Bill Anderson (host); Oak Ridge Boys
Like I said, while light on numbers, there are 2 pretty good shows this weekend.
For this week's look back in Opry history, I have Saturday January 25, 1992. It was on this night 21 years ago that Emmylou Harris became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. I have to say that I enjoy Emmylou and she has done some great things in her career, but her commitment to the Opry is not one of them. When she joined the cast, I really thought that as someone who really understood the history of country music and the Opry, along with her love of the Louvin Brothers, she would be there more often. But like many others of her generation, she makes very few appearances. I find that sad as she lives in Nashville and is always around town. She does not tour as much as she used to. When she does appear on the Opry, it is usually when the show is at the Ryman Auditorium. When she does do the Orpy she is very well received and she seems to enjoy herself. I can remember one night a few years back when I was at the Ryman for an Opry show and Emmylou hosted a segment. She stayed on stage and backed up each group and danced with the square dancers. It was a fun segment. I think I speak for a lot of fans when I say that we need to see more of Emmylou at the Opry.
Here is the line-up from Saturday January 25, 1992, the night Emmylou Harris joined the Opry.
1st show
6:30: Opry Tours
Boxcar Willie (host): Train Melody
Jeanne Pruett: Temporarily Yours
Boxcar Willie: Cowboys & Horses; Hobos & Trains
6:45: Hall of Fame
Grandpa Jones (host): Apple Jack
4 Guys: Tennessee
Skeeter Davis: The End of the World
7:00: Shoney's
Porter Wagoner (host): You Gotta Have A License
John Conlee: I Don't Remember Loving You
Osborne Brothers: Nearer My God to Thee
Lorrie Morgan: Except for Monday/Autumns Not That Cold
Porter Wagoner: Wake Up Jacob
7:30: Standard Candy
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Vince Gill: Take Your Memory With You/When I Call Your Name/Drifting Too Far From the Shore
Emmylou Harris: Walls of Time/Blue Kentucky Girl
8:00: Martha White
Bill Monroe (host): Nine Pound Hammer
Jimmy Dickens: John Henry
The Whites: Doing it By the Book
Del Reeves: There She Goes
Opry Square Dance Band/Melvin Sloan Dancers: Bill Cheatham
Bill Monroe: Body and Soul
8:30: Opryland
Bill Anderson (host): Don't She Look Good
Jim Ed Brown: The 3 Bells
Jimmy C Newman: (?)
Riders In The Sky: Blue Shadows on the Trail
Jean Shepard: Gospel Melody
Bill Anderson: Still
2nd show
9:30: Dollar General
Porter Wagoner (host): Dooley
Billy Walker: Funny How Time Slips Away
John Conlee: Friday Night Blues
Emmylou Harris: Guitar Town
Emmylou Harris & Vince Gill: If You Needed Me
Porter Wagoner: Misery Loves Company
10:00: Little Debbie
Grandpa Jones (host): Ol Rattler
Charlie Louvin: The Precious Jewel
Wilma Lee Cooper: I Dreamed About Mama Last Night
Grandpa Jones: Arkansas Traveler
10:15: Tennessee Pride/Sunbeam
Roy Acuff (host): Once More
Ray Pillow: Please Don't Leave Me Anymore
George Hamilton IV: I'm Using My Bible For a Roadmap/Cabin in Gloryland
Dan Kelly: Sally Goodin
10:30: Pet Milk
Bill Monroe (host): True Life Blues
Roy Drusky: Too Old to Die Young
Boxcar Willie: Hobo Heaven
Bill Monroe: I'm Working on a Building
10:45: B.C. Powder
Jimmy Dickens (host): Take An Old Cold Tater and Wait
Vince Gill & Patty Loveless: When I Call Your Name
Opry Square Dance Band/Melvin Sloan Dancers: Lafayette
Jimmy Dickens: Life Turned Her That Way
11:00: Coca-Cola
Bill Anderson (host): You Can Have Her
Osborne Brothers: Low and Lonely
Jeannie Seely: Go Down Swinging
Stonewall Jackson: Side Steppin the Blues
Bill Carlisle: Too Old To Cut the Mustard
Bill Anderson: Golden Guitar
11:30: Creamette
Charlie Walker (host): Does Fort Worth Ever Cross Your Mind
Riders In The Sky: How Does He Yodel
The Whites: Swing Down, Chariot
Johnny Russell: No One Will Ever Know
Charlie Walker: Take Me Back To Tulsa
There you have it. And yes, all Opry members!! And 11 of the artists on the 2nd show did not do the 1st show, while 7 on the 1st show did not do the 2nd. That gave both shows good variety.
Congratulations to Emmylou Harris and 21 years of Opry membership.
Saturday, January 19, 2013
Remembering Stoney Cooper
Many of today's Grand Ole Opry fans are familiar with the late Wilma Lee Cooper, who passed away in 2011 after being a member of the Grand Ole Opry for 54 years. As time has passed, many people have forgotten that she originally came to the Opry with her husband Dale T. Cooper, known professionally as Stoney, and that they performed on the Grand Ole Opry for over 20 years as Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper. It was on Saturday January 22, 1977 that Stoney Cooper performed for the last time on the Grand Ole Opry.
Dale Cooper was born on October 16, 1918 in Harman, Randolph County, West Virginia. Growing up in the Appalachian mountains influenced the type of music that he would play. He became a proficient guitar and fiddle player. While in high school, he performed with the Leary Family Singers and in 1941, he married Wilma Lee Leary.
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper formed the Clinch Mountain Clan and began performing in Fairmont, West Virginia on WMMN radio. In 1947 they became part of the WWVA Wheeling Jamboree. They stayed as members of the Jamboree until 1957 when they left to come to Nashville and join the Grand Ole Opry, which they did on January 12, 1957.
As a duo, Wilma Lee & Stoney ranked as one of country music's premier husband-and-wife teams for almost three decades. After originally signing with Rich-R-Tone Records in 1947, they would eventually join Columbia Records, where they had their first chart success. Their hit records included "Legend of the Dogwood Tree," "Thirty Pieces of Silver," "Sunny Side of the Mountain," and Walking My Lord up Calvary Hill." In 1955, Wilma Lee & Stoney moved to Hickory Records where they would have the biggest hits of their career. Those hits included "Cheated Too," "Come Walk With Me," "Big Midnight Special" and "There's a Big Wheel." Their chart success ended in 1961, but they continued to record for various smaller labels.
Being from the Appalachian mountains and rural West Virginia, they kept their sound simple. The Clinch Mountain Clan had an acoustical sound that featured the dobro, fiddle and mandolin.
Stoney Cooper had health issues during his later years and passed away on March 22, 1977 at the age of 58. Wilma Lee, of course, continued on at the Opry as a solo act, and did some recordings on her own.
As most Opry fans know, Wilma Lee & Stoney had one daughter, Carol Lee, who in 1973 formed the Carol Lee Singers, who were the back-up singers at the Opry for many years, until Carol Lee retired in 2012. Carol Lee originally came to the Opry with her parents and was part of their group during their early years on the show. Carol Lee left the Opry after she married Jimmie Snow, the son of Hank Snow.
After Stoney passed away and Wilma Lee continued on her own career, she received many awards and at times, has been mentioned as a Hall of Fame candidate. Yet that success has come largely on the career that she had with Stoney. As it has been over 35 years since he has passed away, I think people have forgotten what a great duo they were. We are lucky that the Ernest Tubb Record Shop, among other outlets, have continued to stock a greatest hits CD by the Coopers. While I really believe that Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper should be in the Country Music Hall of Fame, I just don't see it happening. They are another of the legendary country acts that have been lost to history. If you haven't, take time to go back and listen to some of their great recordings and you will see what I mean.
To remember Stoney Cooper, here is the Grand Ole Opry line-up from Saturday January 22, 1977, which was the final Grand Ole Opry performance for Stoney.
1st show
6:00: Vietti
Bill Anderson (host): Don't She Look Good
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper: God Gave Noah Rainbow Sign
Lonzo & Oscar: Los Vegas
Ernie Ashworth: The Shamrock Motel
Mary Lou Turner: It's Different With You
Bill Anderson & Mary Lou Turner: Sometimes
6:30: Mrs Grissoms
Billy Walker (host): Don't Stop In My World
Jim & Jesse: Ballad of Thunder Road
Willis Brothers: Wild Side of Life
Billy Walker: Behind Closed Doors
6:45: Rudy's
Roy Drusky (host): Peel Me A Nanner
Ray Pillow: Bubbles in My Beer
Justin Tubb: As Long As There's A Sunday
Roy Drusky: One Day at A Time
7:00: Shoney's
Porter Wagoner (host): On A Highway Headed South
Jim Ed Brown & Helen Cornelius: Saying Hello, Saying I Love You, Saying Goodbye
Skeeter Davis: Only Mama That'll Walk The Line
Charlie Louvin: Sweet Texas
Jim Ed Brown: I've Rode with the Best
Skeeter Davis: I'll Fly Away
Porter Wagoner: Cold Hard Facts of Life/Carroll County Accident/Green Grass of Home/The Funky Grass Band
7:30: Standard Candy
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Billy Grammer: I Saw Your Face in the Moon
Minnie Pearl: Careless Love
Crook Brothers/Ralph Sloan Dancers: Soldier's Joy
Roy Acuff: Hold to God's Unchanging Hand
8:00: Martha White
Grandpa Jones (host): Banjo is the Instrument for Me
Wilburn Brothers: Making Plans
4 Guys: Don't It Make You Want to Go Home
Jimmy C Newman: Diggy Liggy Lo
Marion Worth: Under Your Spell Again
Wilburn Brothers: Arkansas
Grandpa Jones: Arkansas Traveler
8:30: Stephens
Hank Snow (host): Merry Go Round of Love
Jeanne Pruett: Hold to My Unchanging Love/Love Me/You Don't Need to Move A Mountain/Satin Sheets
Stu Phillips: Have a Nice Day
Stonewall Jackson: Why I'm Walking
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Lost Indian
Jeanne Pruett: Break My Mind
Hank Snow: My Mother
2nd show
9:30: Kelloggs
Bill Anderson (host): Liars 1; Believers 0
Billy Walker: Funny How Time Slips Away
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper: Keep on the Firing Line
Jim & Jesse: A Bird With Broken Wings Can't Fly
Lonzo & Oscar: Thank God I'm A Country Boy
Ernie Ashworth: Each Moment Spent with You
Mary Lou Turner: Cheating Overtime
Bill Anderson: Mama Sang A Song
10:00: Fender
Jim Ed Brown (host): w/Helen Cornelius: I Don't Want to Have to Marry You
Roy Drusky: Don't It Make You Want To Go Home
Skeeter Davis: On The Way Home
Jim Ed Brown: Morning
10:15: Union 76
Porter Wagoner (host): Wake Up, Jacob
Charlie Louvin: When I Stop Dreaming
Ray Pillow: Gone at Last
Porter Wagoner: When Leah Jane Would Sing/Swing Lo, Sweet Chariot
10:30: Trailblazer
Roy Acuff (host): Just A Friend
4 Guys: Cottonfields/Maria
Willis Brothers: Truck Stop
Roy Acuff: Shake Hands With Your Mother Again
10:45: Beechnut
Grandpa Jones (host): Baptism of Jesse Taylor
Billy Grammer: Somewhere My Love
Crook Brothers/Ralph Sloan Dancers: Old Joe Clark
Grandpa Jones: Night Train to Memphis
11:00: Coca-Cola
Hank Snow (host): Wreck of the Old 97/One More Ride
Jeanne Pruett: Satin Sheets
Wilburn Brothers: Country Kind of Feelings
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Rachel
Justin Tubb: Cold Brown Bottle
Kirk McGee: Alabama Jubilee/Just Because
Hank Snow: Black Diamond
11:30: Elm Hill
Jimmy C Newman (host): Take Me Back Into Your Heart
Stonewall Jackson: Don't Be Angry/Be & You & A Dog Named Boo
Stu Phillips: Have A Nice Day
Marion Worth: Just A Little Lovin
Jimmy C Newman: Jambalaya
I don't know what it is, or was, but it seems like after Stoney Cooper died, nothing was ever mentioned about him again. It was all about Wilma Lee Cooper. But, Stoney was a star in his own right and I thought it would be nice to remember.
Dale Cooper was born on October 16, 1918 in Harman, Randolph County, West Virginia. Growing up in the Appalachian mountains influenced the type of music that he would play. He became a proficient guitar and fiddle player. While in high school, he performed with the Leary Family Singers and in 1941, he married Wilma Lee Leary.
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper formed the Clinch Mountain Clan and began performing in Fairmont, West Virginia on WMMN radio. In 1947 they became part of the WWVA Wheeling Jamboree. They stayed as members of the Jamboree until 1957 when they left to come to Nashville and join the Grand Ole Opry, which they did on January 12, 1957.
As a duo, Wilma Lee & Stoney ranked as one of country music's premier husband-and-wife teams for almost three decades. After originally signing with Rich-R-Tone Records in 1947, they would eventually join Columbia Records, where they had their first chart success. Their hit records included "Legend of the Dogwood Tree," "Thirty Pieces of Silver," "Sunny Side of the Mountain," and Walking My Lord up Calvary Hill." In 1955, Wilma Lee & Stoney moved to Hickory Records where they would have the biggest hits of their career. Those hits included "Cheated Too," "Come Walk With Me," "Big Midnight Special" and "There's a Big Wheel." Their chart success ended in 1961, but they continued to record for various smaller labels.
Being from the Appalachian mountains and rural West Virginia, they kept their sound simple. The Clinch Mountain Clan had an acoustical sound that featured the dobro, fiddle and mandolin.
Stoney Cooper had health issues during his later years and passed away on March 22, 1977 at the age of 58. Wilma Lee, of course, continued on at the Opry as a solo act, and did some recordings on her own.
As most Opry fans know, Wilma Lee & Stoney had one daughter, Carol Lee, who in 1973 formed the Carol Lee Singers, who were the back-up singers at the Opry for many years, until Carol Lee retired in 2012. Carol Lee originally came to the Opry with her parents and was part of their group during their early years on the show. Carol Lee left the Opry after she married Jimmie Snow, the son of Hank Snow.
After Stoney passed away and Wilma Lee continued on her own career, she received many awards and at times, has been mentioned as a Hall of Fame candidate. Yet that success has come largely on the career that she had with Stoney. As it has been over 35 years since he has passed away, I think people have forgotten what a great duo they were. We are lucky that the Ernest Tubb Record Shop, among other outlets, have continued to stock a greatest hits CD by the Coopers. While I really believe that Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper should be in the Country Music Hall of Fame, I just don't see it happening. They are another of the legendary country acts that have been lost to history. If you haven't, take time to go back and listen to some of their great recordings and you will see what I mean.
To remember Stoney Cooper, here is the Grand Ole Opry line-up from Saturday January 22, 1977, which was the final Grand Ole Opry performance for Stoney.
1st show
6:00: Vietti
Bill Anderson (host): Don't She Look Good
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper: God Gave Noah Rainbow Sign
Lonzo & Oscar: Los Vegas
Ernie Ashworth: The Shamrock Motel
Mary Lou Turner: It's Different With You
Bill Anderson & Mary Lou Turner: Sometimes
6:30: Mrs Grissoms
Billy Walker (host): Don't Stop In My World
Jim & Jesse: Ballad of Thunder Road
Willis Brothers: Wild Side of Life
Billy Walker: Behind Closed Doors
6:45: Rudy's
Roy Drusky (host): Peel Me A Nanner
Ray Pillow: Bubbles in My Beer
Justin Tubb: As Long As There's A Sunday
Roy Drusky: One Day at A Time
7:00: Shoney's
Porter Wagoner (host): On A Highway Headed South
Jim Ed Brown & Helen Cornelius: Saying Hello, Saying I Love You, Saying Goodbye
Skeeter Davis: Only Mama That'll Walk The Line
Charlie Louvin: Sweet Texas
Jim Ed Brown: I've Rode with the Best
Skeeter Davis: I'll Fly Away
Porter Wagoner: Cold Hard Facts of Life/Carroll County Accident/Green Grass of Home/The Funky Grass Band
7:30: Standard Candy
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Billy Grammer: I Saw Your Face in the Moon
Minnie Pearl: Careless Love
Crook Brothers/Ralph Sloan Dancers: Soldier's Joy
Roy Acuff: Hold to God's Unchanging Hand
8:00: Martha White
Grandpa Jones (host): Banjo is the Instrument for Me
Wilburn Brothers: Making Plans
4 Guys: Don't It Make You Want to Go Home
Jimmy C Newman: Diggy Liggy Lo
Marion Worth: Under Your Spell Again
Wilburn Brothers: Arkansas
Grandpa Jones: Arkansas Traveler
8:30: Stephens
Hank Snow (host): Merry Go Round of Love
Jeanne Pruett: Hold to My Unchanging Love/Love Me/You Don't Need to Move A Mountain/Satin Sheets
Stu Phillips: Have a Nice Day
Stonewall Jackson: Why I'm Walking
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Lost Indian
Jeanne Pruett: Break My Mind
Hank Snow: My Mother
2nd show
9:30: Kelloggs
Bill Anderson (host): Liars 1; Believers 0
Billy Walker: Funny How Time Slips Away
Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper: Keep on the Firing Line
Jim & Jesse: A Bird With Broken Wings Can't Fly
Lonzo & Oscar: Thank God I'm A Country Boy
Ernie Ashworth: Each Moment Spent with You
Mary Lou Turner: Cheating Overtime
Bill Anderson: Mama Sang A Song
10:00: Fender
Jim Ed Brown (host): w/Helen Cornelius: I Don't Want to Have to Marry You
Roy Drusky: Don't It Make You Want To Go Home
Skeeter Davis: On The Way Home
Jim Ed Brown: Morning
10:15: Union 76
Porter Wagoner (host): Wake Up, Jacob
Charlie Louvin: When I Stop Dreaming
Ray Pillow: Gone at Last
Porter Wagoner: When Leah Jane Would Sing/Swing Lo, Sweet Chariot
10:30: Trailblazer
Roy Acuff (host): Just A Friend
4 Guys: Cottonfields/Maria
Willis Brothers: Truck Stop
Roy Acuff: Shake Hands With Your Mother Again
10:45: Beechnut
Grandpa Jones (host): Baptism of Jesse Taylor
Billy Grammer: Somewhere My Love
Crook Brothers/Ralph Sloan Dancers: Old Joe Clark
Grandpa Jones: Night Train to Memphis
11:00: Coca-Cola
Hank Snow (host): Wreck of the Old 97/One More Ride
Jeanne Pruett: Satin Sheets
Wilburn Brothers: Country Kind of Feelings
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Rachel
Justin Tubb: Cold Brown Bottle
Kirk McGee: Alabama Jubilee/Just Because
Hank Snow: Black Diamond
11:30: Elm Hill
Jimmy C Newman (host): Take Me Back Into Your Heart
Stonewall Jackson: Don't Be Angry/Be & You & A Dog Named Boo
Stu Phillips: Have A Nice Day
Marion Worth: Just A Little Lovin
Jimmy C Newman: Jambalaya
I don't know what it is, or was, but it seems like after Stoney Cooper died, nothing was ever mentioned about him again. It was all about Wilma Lee Cooper. But, Stoney was a star in his own right and I thought it would be nice to remember.
Wednesday, January 16, 2013
Grand Ole Opry 1/18 & 1/19-Updated
Note: The Opry has filled out the line-up for this weekend by adding 2 non-Opry members. Tyler Farr and Charlie Worsham are the 2 lucky people added. I guess none of the other 57 Opry members available were able to be there Saturday night. Or none of them were asked.
The Grand Ole Opry has posted the line-ups for the 2 shows this weekend, the Friday Night Opry and the Grand Ole Opry. The Friday Night Opry will feature the return of Hunter Hayes to the Opry. Hunter is definitely an artist that will appeal to the younger fans of country music. In addition to Hunter, the Friday show will feature Christian music artist Andrew Peterson, along with Opry members Ricky Skaggs, Diamond Rio, Joe Diffie and the Del McCoury Band. Of the 12 acts featured on Friday night, 10 are Opry members.
At the point, the line-up for Saturday's show is on the "lite" side, with just 10 acts listed, of which 8 are Opry members. Among those Opry members on Saturday are Terri Clark, who we do not see enough of at the Opry and Ricky Skaggs and Del McCoury, both of whom also are on Friday night. Joining her will be guest artists T.G. Sheppard and The Mavericks.
Friday January 18
7:00: Mike Snider (host); Joe Diffie; Jimmy C Newman
7:30: Diamond Rio (host); Jan Howard; Del McCoury Band
Intermission
8:15: Ricky Skaggs (host); The Whites; Andrew Peterson
8:45: Riders In The Sky (host); Jesse McReynolds; Hunter Hayes
Saturday January 19
7:00: Mike Snider (host); Tyler Farr; T.G. Sheppard
7:30: The Whites (host); Terri Clark; Del McCoury Band
Intermission
8:15: Ricky Skaggs (host); Connie Smith; Charlie Worsham; Opry Square Dancers
8:45: Riders In The Sky (host); Bobby Osborne & Rocky Top X-Press; The Mavericks
We will have to see if the Opry fills the 2 available slots on Saturday night. The guess is that at least one will be filled from one of the various non-Opry members that get called at the last minute.
On another Opry note, this past week was Jack Greene's 83rd birthday and a birthday party was held for him that featured many of Jack's friends, along with a number of Opry members. Jack attended and I am told he looked good and enjoyed himself. While he was not scheduled to sing, Jack did and sang his 2 biggest hits "There Goes My Everything" and "Statue Of A Fool". Jeannie Seely helped on harmony and he nailed the songs.
Now for the look back in Grand Ole Opry history, I go to Saturday January 20, 1990. This was the night that Hank Snow was honored for 40 years of Opry membership. Hank joined the Opry on Saturday January 7, 1950. During the 1st show, Hank hosted the televised segment and among the guests that he asked to be on were the Tompall and The Glasser Brothers, former Opry members. The Glaser Brothers had not performed for many years and in fact, were barely speaking to each other. But they had such a respect for Hank that they agreed to come. A video of their performance is on YouTube and it is great. And, this was the last time that the Glaser Brothers have performed.
Here is the line-up from that night, January 20, 1990:
1st show
6:30: Mrs Grissoms
Bill Anderson (host); Southern Fried
Skeeter Davis: If I Don't Have You
Bill Anderson: Po' Folks
6:45: Rudy's
John Conlee (host): Got My Heart Set On You
Jeannie Seely: Tell Me Again
John Conlee: Don't Get Me Started
7:00: Shoney's
Bill Monroe (host): I'm On My Way Back to the Old Home
Jimmy C Newman: Happy Cajun
Jean Shepard: Someone's Gotta Cry
Charlie Louvin: He Keeps On Crying
Jack Greene: Precious Memories/There Goes My Everything
Bill Monroe: Little Cabin on the Hill
7:30: Standard Candy
Hank Snow (host): Send Me The Pillow You Dream You
Glasser Brothers: Loving Her Was Easier/Melody
Mel Tillis: Tall Drink of Water/It Makes No Difference Now
8:00: Martha White
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Bill Carlisle: No Help Wanted
Marshall Barnes: Tender Years
Jeanne Pruett: Satin Sheets
Osborne Brothers: Rocky Top/Rank Strangers to Me
Opry Square Dance Band/Stoney Mountain Cloggers: Dance All Night
8:30: Music Valley Merchants
Jim Ed Brown (host): Southern Loving
Jim & Jesse: Truck Stops and Pretty Girls
Connie Smith: The Key's In The Mailbox
Del Reeves: Don't You Ever Get Tired of Hurting Me
Stonewall Jackson: Muddy Water
Jim Ed Brown: Fools
2nd show
9:30: Dollar General
Bill Anderson (host): Before I Met You
George Hamilton IV: Forever Young
Jeanne Pruett: Temporarily Yours
Ray Pillow: I Wonder Where You Are Tonight
Billy Walker: Behind Closed Doors
Bill Anderson: Still
10:00: Little Debbie
Bill Monroe (host): Stay Away From Me, You're Causing Me Trouble
Roy Drusky: Too Old To Die Young
Justin Tubb: Texas Dance Hall Girl
Bill Monroe: Come Back to Me In My Dreams
10:15: Sunbeam
Roy Acuff (host): Traveling the Highway Home
Jeannie Seely: It Should Be Easier Now
10:30: Pet Milk
John Conlee (host): Domestic Life
Jean Shepard: At The Time
Charlie Walker: Deep Water
John Conlee: Don't Get Me Started
10:45: B. C. Powder
Del Reeves (host): Two Dollars in the Jukebox/A Dime At A Time/Looking at the World Through A Windshield
Jimmy C Newman: Thibodeaux and His Cajun Band
Opry Square Dance Band/Stoney Mountain Cloggers: Rachel
Del Reeves: The Race Is On
11:00: Coca-Cola
Hank Snow (host): Gonna Find Me A Bluebird
Jim Ed Brown: Morning Comes Too Early
Jim & Jesse: Dream of Me
Mel Tillis: Good Woman Blues/I've Got the Horse and You've Got the Saddle
Hank Snow: Brand On My Heart
11:30: Creamette
Jack Greene (host): Walking On New Grass
Osborne Brothers: Harvest of My Heart
Dottie West: Are You Happy Baby/Together Again
Johnny Russell: Making Plans/Act Naturally
Jack Greene: Until My Dreams Come True
On a final note, it was on January 21, 1995 that Brother Oswald (Pete Kirby), officially became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Oswald originally came to the Opry in the late 1930s as part of Roy Acuff's band. After Roy passed away in 1992, Brother Oswald teamed with Charlie Collins and continued to perform on the Opry. In January 1995, he became an official member at the age of 84. He would remain with the Opry until he passed away in 2002. As far as the night Oswald became a member, I was there that night and it was a surprise as I do not remember it being announced before hand. I also remember that Marty Stuart, Porter Wagoner and Boxcar Willie were all on stage for the official induction. Here is the line-up from the night Brother Oswald became an Opry member:
1st show
6:30: GHS Strings
Grandpa Jones (host); Mike Snider
6:45: Country Music Hall of Fame
Bill Monroe (host); Bill Carlisle
7:00: Shoney's
Jimmy Dickens (host); The Whites; Stonewall Jackson; Jeanne Pruett; Jim Ed Brown
7:30: Standard Candy
Marty Stuart (host); Porter Wagoner; Connie Smith; Brother Oswald & Charlie
8:00: Martha White
Bill Anderson (host); Jimmy C Newman; Boxcar Willie; Charlie Louvin; Opry Squaredance Band/Melvin Sloan Dancers
8:30: Velveeta Shells & Cheese
Hank Snow (host); The 4 Guys; Billy Walker; Doug Stone; Osborne Brothers
2nd show
9:30: Dollar General Store
Porter Wagoner (host); Wilma Lee Cooper; Osborne Brothers; Stu Phillips; The Whites
10:00: Goodys Headache Powder
Grandpa Jones (host); Roy Drusky
10:15: Sunbeam Bread/Tennessee Pride
Bill Monroe (host); Ray Pillow
10:30: Gruhn Guitar
Marty Stuart (host); Boxcar Willie
10:45: Fairfield Nashville
Jimmy Dickens (host); Del Reeves; Opry Squaredance Band/Melvin Sloan Dancers
11:00: Coke
Hank Snow (host); Connie Smith; Charlie Walker; Doug Stone
11:30: Cates Pickles
Bill Anderson (host); The 4 Guys; Jack Greene; Johnny Russell
The Grand Ole Opry has posted the line-ups for the 2 shows this weekend, the Friday Night Opry and the Grand Ole Opry. The Friday Night Opry will feature the return of Hunter Hayes to the Opry. Hunter is definitely an artist that will appeal to the younger fans of country music. In addition to Hunter, the Friday show will feature Christian music artist Andrew Peterson, along with Opry members Ricky Skaggs, Diamond Rio, Joe Diffie and the Del McCoury Band. Of the 12 acts featured on Friday night, 10 are Opry members.
At the point, the line-up for Saturday's show is on the "lite" side, with just 10 acts listed, of which 8 are Opry members. Among those Opry members on Saturday are Terri Clark, who we do not see enough of at the Opry and Ricky Skaggs and Del McCoury, both of whom also are on Friday night. Joining her will be guest artists T.G. Sheppard and The Mavericks.
Friday January 18
7:00: Mike Snider (host); Joe Diffie; Jimmy C Newman
7:30: Diamond Rio (host); Jan Howard; Del McCoury Band
Intermission
8:15: Ricky Skaggs (host); The Whites; Andrew Peterson
8:45: Riders In The Sky (host); Jesse McReynolds; Hunter Hayes
Saturday January 19
7:00: Mike Snider (host); Tyler Farr; T.G. Sheppard
7:30: The Whites (host); Terri Clark; Del McCoury Band
Intermission
8:15: Ricky Skaggs (host); Connie Smith; Charlie Worsham; Opry Square Dancers
8:45: Riders In The Sky (host); Bobby Osborne & Rocky Top X-Press; The Mavericks
We will have to see if the Opry fills the 2 available slots on Saturday night. The guess is that at least one will be filled from one of the various non-Opry members that get called at the last minute.
On another Opry note, this past week was Jack Greene's 83rd birthday and a birthday party was held for him that featured many of Jack's friends, along with a number of Opry members. Jack attended and I am told he looked good and enjoyed himself. While he was not scheduled to sing, Jack did and sang his 2 biggest hits "There Goes My Everything" and "Statue Of A Fool". Jeannie Seely helped on harmony and he nailed the songs.
Now for the look back in Grand Ole Opry history, I go to Saturday January 20, 1990. This was the night that Hank Snow was honored for 40 years of Opry membership. Hank joined the Opry on Saturday January 7, 1950. During the 1st show, Hank hosted the televised segment and among the guests that he asked to be on were the Tompall and The Glasser Brothers, former Opry members. The Glaser Brothers had not performed for many years and in fact, were barely speaking to each other. But they had such a respect for Hank that they agreed to come. A video of their performance is on YouTube and it is great. And, this was the last time that the Glaser Brothers have performed.
Here is the line-up from that night, January 20, 1990:
1st show
6:30: Mrs Grissoms
Bill Anderson (host); Southern Fried
Skeeter Davis: If I Don't Have You
Bill Anderson: Po' Folks
6:45: Rudy's
John Conlee (host): Got My Heart Set On You
Jeannie Seely: Tell Me Again
John Conlee: Don't Get Me Started
7:00: Shoney's
Bill Monroe (host): I'm On My Way Back to the Old Home
Jimmy C Newman: Happy Cajun
Jean Shepard: Someone's Gotta Cry
Charlie Louvin: He Keeps On Crying
Jack Greene: Precious Memories/There Goes My Everything
Bill Monroe: Little Cabin on the Hill
7:30: Standard Candy
Hank Snow (host): Send Me The Pillow You Dream You
Glasser Brothers: Loving Her Was Easier/Melody
Mel Tillis: Tall Drink of Water/It Makes No Difference Now
8:00: Martha White
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Bill Carlisle: No Help Wanted
Marshall Barnes: Tender Years
Jeanne Pruett: Satin Sheets
Osborne Brothers: Rocky Top/Rank Strangers to Me
Opry Square Dance Band/Stoney Mountain Cloggers: Dance All Night
8:30: Music Valley Merchants
Jim Ed Brown (host): Southern Loving
Jim & Jesse: Truck Stops and Pretty Girls
Connie Smith: The Key's In The Mailbox
Del Reeves: Don't You Ever Get Tired of Hurting Me
Stonewall Jackson: Muddy Water
Jim Ed Brown: Fools
2nd show
9:30: Dollar General
Bill Anderson (host): Before I Met You
George Hamilton IV: Forever Young
Jeanne Pruett: Temporarily Yours
Ray Pillow: I Wonder Where You Are Tonight
Billy Walker: Behind Closed Doors
Bill Anderson: Still
10:00: Little Debbie
Bill Monroe (host): Stay Away From Me, You're Causing Me Trouble
Roy Drusky: Too Old To Die Young
Justin Tubb: Texas Dance Hall Girl
Bill Monroe: Come Back to Me In My Dreams
10:15: Sunbeam
Roy Acuff (host): Traveling the Highway Home
Jeannie Seely: It Should Be Easier Now
10:30: Pet Milk
John Conlee (host): Domestic Life
Jean Shepard: At The Time
Charlie Walker: Deep Water
John Conlee: Don't Get Me Started
10:45: B. C. Powder
Del Reeves (host): Two Dollars in the Jukebox/A Dime At A Time/Looking at the World Through A Windshield
Jimmy C Newman: Thibodeaux and His Cajun Band
Opry Square Dance Band/Stoney Mountain Cloggers: Rachel
Del Reeves: The Race Is On
11:00: Coca-Cola
Hank Snow (host): Gonna Find Me A Bluebird
Jim Ed Brown: Morning Comes Too Early
Jim & Jesse: Dream of Me
Mel Tillis: Good Woman Blues/I've Got the Horse and You've Got the Saddle
Hank Snow: Brand On My Heart
11:30: Creamette
Jack Greene (host): Walking On New Grass
Osborne Brothers: Harvest of My Heart
Dottie West: Are You Happy Baby/Together Again
Johnny Russell: Making Plans/Act Naturally
Jack Greene: Until My Dreams Come True
On a final note, it was on January 21, 1995 that Brother Oswald (Pete Kirby), officially became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Oswald originally came to the Opry in the late 1930s as part of Roy Acuff's band. After Roy passed away in 1992, Brother Oswald teamed with Charlie Collins and continued to perform on the Opry. In January 1995, he became an official member at the age of 84. He would remain with the Opry until he passed away in 2002. As far as the night Oswald became a member, I was there that night and it was a surprise as I do not remember it being announced before hand. I also remember that Marty Stuart, Porter Wagoner and Boxcar Willie were all on stage for the official induction. Here is the line-up from the night Brother Oswald became an Opry member:
1st show
6:30: GHS Strings
Grandpa Jones (host); Mike Snider
6:45: Country Music Hall of Fame
Bill Monroe (host); Bill Carlisle
7:00: Shoney's
Jimmy Dickens (host); The Whites; Stonewall Jackson; Jeanne Pruett; Jim Ed Brown
7:30: Standard Candy
Marty Stuart (host); Porter Wagoner; Connie Smith; Brother Oswald & Charlie
8:00: Martha White
Bill Anderson (host); Jimmy C Newman; Boxcar Willie; Charlie Louvin; Opry Squaredance Band/Melvin Sloan Dancers
8:30: Velveeta Shells & Cheese
Hank Snow (host); The 4 Guys; Billy Walker; Doug Stone; Osborne Brothers
2nd show
9:30: Dollar General Store
Porter Wagoner (host); Wilma Lee Cooper; Osborne Brothers; Stu Phillips; The Whites
10:00: Goodys Headache Powder
Grandpa Jones (host); Roy Drusky
10:15: Sunbeam Bread/Tennessee Pride
Bill Monroe (host); Ray Pillow
10:30: Gruhn Guitar
Marty Stuart (host); Boxcar Willie
10:45: Fairfield Nashville
Jimmy Dickens (host); Del Reeves; Opry Squaredance Band/Melvin Sloan Dancers
11:00: Coke
Hank Snow (host); Connie Smith; Charlie Walker; Doug Stone
11:30: Cates Pickles
Bill Anderson (host); The 4 Guys; Jack Greene; Johnny Russell
Saturday, January 12, 2013
Who Should Or Should Not Be An Opry Member
A topic that comes up from time to time is the question of who should be a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Some of the discussion concerns current members that should be dropped from the cast, along with the names of new members that should be added. With the start of the new year I thought it would be a good time to open this topic up for more discussion.
I looked at the list of the current Grand Ole Opry members and came up with 10 artists that I would immediately drop as members of the Opry. Here is my 10 and the reasons why, which should be obvious:
1) Clint Black: Clint joined the Grand Ole Opry in January 1991, making him an Opry member for 21 years. So what has Clint given the Opry? Since 1998, he has made 20 Opry appearances. That averages out to just over 1 Opry appearance each year. From 2004 through 2010, he made 2 appearances. Last year he managed 1 Tuesday night show. His high point for Opry shows was in 2002 and 2003, when he made 5 appearances each year. Clint continues to be based in California and makes very few Nashville trips.
2) Garth Brooks: Garth says he is retired but for the past several years, when the money was right, he did weekend shows in Las Vegas. It would be just as easy for Garth to fly from Oklahoma to Nashville for a few Saturday night shows as it is to fly to Vegas. Garth says Opry membership is the most important thing to him and that anytime the Opry calls, he will be there for the Opry. Either Pete Fisher has lost Garth's number or feels no reason to call him, or Garth is just fooling everyone. In 2000, he made 4 Opry appearances, all the weekend of the 75th anniversary of the Opry. Since then, he has appeared just 3 times, with his last Opry visit coming in 2008 to induct Carrie Underwood as a member. He last sang on the Opry in 2005 for the Opry's 80th birthday. To carry the retirement thought a little further, for most of the Opry's history, when you retired from performing you gave up your Opry membership. I think the first member who retired and asked to stay a member was Barbara Mandrell. I think the show needs to go back to the policy that except for illness, as long as you are an Opry member, who need to be an active performer. (oh by the way, you will notice that I did not put Trisha Yearwood on the list. She should also go, but the reason I did not include her was the if Garth goes, Trisha will probably follow It has been a couple of years since she has done the Opry).
3) Tom T Hall: Tom T has not performed on the Opry for 20 years. He has said that he is never coming back to the Opry, so why keep him a member? Really it is too bad as in the late 1980s and early 1990s, he actually was on the show often. And he was well received. But for some reason, he just quit coming. Time for Tom T to go.
4) Alan Jackson: Why is Alan Jackson a member of the Grand Ole Opry? He joined the Opry in 1991. In 2011, the Opry wanted to do a show to honor Alan for 20 years of Opry membership. The show was never scheduled because Alan would not commit to it. I think that says it all. It is not hard to figure out how often he is at the Opry. In 2012-1; 2011-1; 2010-1; 2009-0. His high point was 4 shows in 2005, but except for that it was generally 2 shows per year through 2008. With his love of George Jones and traditional country music, you would have thought Alan would be there to support the Opry, but that is not the case. Actually, in many ways, he is following the example of his idol when it comes to supporting the Opry.
5) George Jones: I really hate to put this name on the list, but George has given up on the Opry a long time ago. While he has battled voice problems the past few years, he has still toured, but his tour schedule does not seem to include the Opry House. His last show was a Tuesday night in 2011 when he was honored for his 80th birthday. In 2008 and 2009 it was 1 show, with 2 in 2010. While he originally joined the Opry in 1956, he has left several times but comes back. The question is why, as even when he returns to the Opry, he does not perform on the show. As a legend who was influenced by Roy Acuff, he understands what the Opry is all about. And of course, he recorded, "Who's Gonna Fill Their Shoes". With George retiring this year, perhaps this is the time for George to retire from the Opry.
6) Reba McEntire: Since 2001, Reba has appeared on the Opry 1 time. That was in 2009 when the Opry extended a Saturday night show by an extra segment that was for her, and she was the only performer for that segment. She did 3 songs and hit the door. She is active in the business and tours. While she has been busy with television work, she still finds time to come to Nashville. I think in 12 years, she could have made it out to the Opry House more than once. The Opry would not lose anything if they dropped her from the cast.
7) Randy Travis: I know Randy has had some personal issues lately. I wish him well, and that is not the reason I would drop him as an Opry member. The reason is that Randy really doesn't seem concerned about doing the show. For the past couple of years, he has appeared once per year, with the 2011 show honoring him for 25 years of Opry membership. In 2008, he appeared 3 times, which included the night that he surprised Carrie Underwood with an invitation to join the Opry. From 2002 thru 2007, he made no Opry appearances. Randy needs to get himself straightened out and get his career back on track. If that includes the Opry, that is great. If not, time for Randy to go.
8) Travis Tritt: Travis joined the Grand Ole Opry in 1992. He last appeared on the Opry in 2007 and nobody seems to know why he has not been back. I do not know if there is something behind it, but Travis has not appeared on the Opry since Porter Wagoner passed away. We'll, I don't think Porter is coming back anytime soon, and I don't think Travis is either. When Travis was appearing at the Opry, his high point was 5 in 2001 and 2006. Other than that, it was an average of 2 shows per year.
9) Blake Shelton: Pete Fisher has had pretty good luck with the members that he has asked to join the Opry, in relation to Opry appearances. He has asked for a commitment of 10 shows per year, and most have come pretty close. But I think in the case of Blake, he missed. Blake joined in 2010, when the Opry House reopened after the flood. In 2011, he did 4 Opry shows, while in 2012 he did zero. He is busy with television work, and seems to be hosting a lot of "specials". But he apparently does not have time for the Opry. Even before he joined the show, he did not make a lot of guest appearances. I know Blake is a big name and his career is hot right now, but as an Opry member, it just is not working.
10) Ricky Van Shelton: Yes, I know Ricky is retired. He has not been at the Opry since 2005. But, while Barbara Mandrell and Jeanne Pruett are also retired, they both are still around Nashville and are involved with Opry events. Jeanne is a backstage visitor to the show, while Barbara is still involved in the music industry. Ricky is in Virginia and shows no sign on coming back to town. Even when he was a member, he was not making a lot of Opry appearances. It is time to give Ricky's spot to someone else.
Now, if these 10 were to go, who could they be replaced with? I have my own list of whom I think would make good Opry members and would support the show. Most of them have been guest artists at the Opry for a number of years and come whenever asked. It is time to take the guest label off of them and make them Opry members. Here is my list of 10:
1) Rhonda Vincent: The person I get asked the most about when it comes to Opry membership is Rhonda Vincent. When is it going to happen? Why is she not a membership? Who at the Opry is mad at her? Is her Martha White association hurting her? Those are the questions I get and I just don't have the answers. From what I have been told, Rhonda would love to be an Opry member. She appears more than most of the members, with 16 appearances over the last 2 years. Here is another fact: of the Opry's 67 members, only 18 are females and that includes several who are retired. The last group of new members have all been male. I think it is time to add some females to the cast to help balance it out. And in the case of Rhonda, she would be only the 2nd female bluegrass artist to be at the Opry.
2) Elizabeth Cook: Like Rhonda, Elizabeth has been a frequent guest artist at the Opry. In Americana music, she has been making a name for herself and brings a lot of energy when singing. She also has a great voice. Over the past 2 years, she has made 29 Opry appearances, more than a majority of the members. Time to bring her on board.
3) Mandy Barnett: Mandy seems to be on the Opry a lot and her past CDs were produced by the Grand Ole Opry and distributed by them. She is a Pete Fisher favorite. No, she has not had any hit records and in that way, I would view her more like former Opry member Marion Worth. Someone with a nice voice that can fill a spot. She has made 39 Opry appearances over the past 2 years. Again, she would not bring star power but would be there.
4) The Grascals: This group is another popular bluegrass act that brings a lot of energy and enthusiasm to their Opry appearances, which have numbered 25 since 2010. They have won numerous bluegrass awards and are headliners on the circuit. Bluegrass music is a foundation of the Opry and with the aging of many of the bluegrass acts, they would fill a void.
5) Crystal Gayle: A legend, she would be the female version of such performers as Mel Tillis, Oak Ridge Boys and Charley Pride. She has had numerous hit records and at some point, will be elected into the Country Music Hall of Fame. She has made guest appearances at the Opry over the years and is well received. I think at some point, she could be an Opry member.
6) Sarah Darling: Ok, I will admit that she is a personal favorite of mine. She is popular with Opry audiences and has the beginnings of a good career going. The Opry has treated her well, much like Brad Paisley and Josh Turner were at the beginning of their careers. Both of those eventually became Opry members and the same could happen to Sarah. She is young, beautiful and talented and good things are going to happen to her in the next few years.
7) Gene Watson: While I don't see this happening, Gene would make an outstanding Opry member. He is a legend who has always done the Opry over the years. I think a lot of the reason why Gene has never become an Opry member is that he does the majority of his touring and work in Texas and Oklahoma and just doesn't get to Nashville often enough. But, he would make a good member.
8) Love and Theft: This group made 12 Opry appearances last year, and were at the Opry the first weekend of this year. They are up and coming and do a nice job. They seem to enjoy the Opry and are well received. They, along with Sarah Darling, would bring some youth to the Opry.
9) Jim Lauderdale: Jim is another popular Nashville artist who's work is much admired by many in the industry. He also is a frequent Opry visitor. He is a star on the Americana music scene and plays all types of music. He also has an appreciation of the history of country music and bluegrass and has recorded and played with many of the legends. He has averaged about 8 Opry appearances over the past several years. In addition, he has hosted his own show on WSM.
10) Jimmy Wayne: Jimmy performs at the Opry so much that most people think he is already a member. ln 2012, he was at the Opry 23 times, while in 2011 it was 17 shows. What hurts Jimmy is that after his first CD, he has not followed it up with anything new. And from what I have been told, he seems to turn some people the wrong way. While the Opry likes him as a guest, they really don't want him to become a member. But everytime the Opry calls, he answers and comes. He would be there more than most of the members. He already is.
Now, while we hope some of this could happen, in reality we know it will not. The Opry is not going to fire 10 of the most popular acts, even if those 10 are not appearing at the Opry. The Opry wants publicity, but not that kind. On the other hand, I think true Opry fans would understand and appreciate the fact that the Opry is doing something to make Opry membership important again.
So for now, the Opry Picture History Book will continue to be filled with pictures of members who rarely appear at the Opry, or not at all. And while new members will continue to say how important Opry membership is to them, the proof is otherwise. And the audiences will continue to see more and more guest artists, and as the Opry continues to blur the line between who is a member and who is not, many in the audience will not know otherwise.
And for true Opry fans, it gives us another topic for discussion.
I looked at the list of the current Grand Ole Opry members and came up with 10 artists that I would immediately drop as members of the Opry. Here is my 10 and the reasons why, which should be obvious:
1) Clint Black: Clint joined the Grand Ole Opry in January 1991, making him an Opry member for 21 years. So what has Clint given the Opry? Since 1998, he has made 20 Opry appearances. That averages out to just over 1 Opry appearance each year. From 2004 through 2010, he made 2 appearances. Last year he managed 1 Tuesday night show. His high point for Opry shows was in 2002 and 2003, when he made 5 appearances each year. Clint continues to be based in California and makes very few Nashville trips.
2) Garth Brooks: Garth says he is retired but for the past several years, when the money was right, he did weekend shows in Las Vegas. It would be just as easy for Garth to fly from Oklahoma to Nashville for a few Saturday night shows as it is to fly to Vegas. Garth says Opry membership is the most important thing to him and that anytime the Opry calls, he will be there for the Opry. Either Pete Fisher has lost Garth's number or feels no reason to call him, or Garth is just fooling everyone. In 2000, he made 4 Opry appearances, all the weekend of the 75th anniversary of the Opry. Since then, he has appeared just 3 times, with his last Opry visit coming in 2008 to induct Carrie Underwood as a member. He last sang on the Opry in 2005 for the Opry's 80th birthday. To carry the retirement thought a little further, for most of the Opry's history, when you retired from performing you gave up your Opry membership. I think the first member who retired and asked to stay a member was Barbara Mandrell. I think the show needs to go back to the policy that except for illness, as long as you are an Opry member, who need to be an active performer. (oh by the way, you will notice that I did not put Trisha Yearwood on the list. She should also go, but the reason I did not include her was the if Garth goes, Trisha will probably follow It has been a couple of years since she has done the Opry).
3) Tom T Hall: Tom T has not performed on the Opry for 20 years. He has said that he is never coming back to the Opry, so why keep him a member? Really it is too bad as in the late 1980s and early 1990s, he actually was on the show often. And he was well received. But for some reason, he just quit coming. Time for Tom T to go.
4) Alan Jackson: Why is Alan Jackson a member of the Grand Ole Opry? He joined the Opry in 1991. In 2011, the Opry wanted to do a show to honor Alan for 20 years of Opry membership. The show was never scheduled because Alan would not commit to it. I think that says it all. It is not hard to figure out how often he is at the Opry. In 2012-1; 2011-1; 2010-1; 2009-0. His high point was 4 shows in 2005, but except for that it was generally 2 shows per year through 2008. With his love of George Jones and traditional country music, you would have thought Alan would be there to support the Opry, but that is not the case. Actually, in many ways, he is following the example of his idol when it comes to supporting the Opry.
5) George Jones: I really hate to put this name on the list, but George has given up on the Opry a long time ago. While he has battled voice problems the past few years, he has still toured, but his tour schedule does not seem to include the Opry House. His last show was a Tuesday night in 2011 when he was honored for his 80th birthday. In 2008 and 2009 it was 1 show, with 2 in 2010. While he originally joined the Opry in 1956, he has left several times but comes back. The question is why, as even when he returns to the Opry, he does not perform on the show. As a legend who was influenced by Roy Acuff, he understands what the Opry is all about. And of course, he recorded, "Who's Gonna Fill Their Shoes". With George retiring this year, perhaps this is the time for George to retire from the Opry.
6) Reba McEntire: Since 2001, Reba has appeared on the Opry 1 time. That was in 2009 when the Opry extended a Saturday night show by an extra segment that was for her, and she was the only performer for that segment. She did 3 songs and hit the door. She is active in the business and tours. While she has been busy with television work, she still finds time to come to Nashville. I think in 12 years, she could have made it out to the Opry House more than once. The Opry would not lose anything if they dropped her from the cast.
7) Randy Travis: I know Randy has had some personal issues lately. I wish him well, and that is not the reason I would drop him as an Opry member. The reason is that Randy really doesn't seem concerned about doing the show. For the past couple of years, he has appeared once per year, with the 2011 show honoring him for 25 years of Opry membership. In 2008, he appeared 3 times, which included the night that he surprised Carrie Underwood with an invitation to join the Opry. From 2002 thru 2007, he made no Opry appearances. Randy needs to get himself straightened out and get his career back on track. If that includes the Opry, that is great. If not, time for Randy to go.
8) Travis Tritt: Travis joined the Grand Ole Opry in 1992. He last appeared on the Opry in 2007 and nobody seems to know why he has not been back. I do not know if there is something behind it, but Travis has not appeared on the Opry since Porter Wagoner passed away. We'll, I don't think Porter is coming back anytime soon, and I don't think Travis is either. When Travis was appearing at the Opry, his high point was 5 in 2001 and 2006. Other than that, it was an average of 2 shows per year.
9) Blake Shelton: Pete Fisher has had pretty good luck with the members that he has asked to join the Opry, in relation to Opry appearances. He has asked for a commitment of 10 shows per year, and most have come pretty close. But I think in the case of Blake, he missed. Blake joined in 2010, when the Opry House reopened after the flood. In 2011, he did 4 Opry shows, while in 2012 he did zero. He is busy with television work, and seems to be hosting a lot of "specials". But he apparently does not have time for the Opry. Even before he joined the show, he did not make a lot of guest appearances. I know Blake is a big name and his career is hot right now, but as an Opry member, it just is not working.
10) Ricky Van Shelton: Yes, I know Ricky is retired. He has not been at the Opry since 2005. But, while Barbara Mandrell and Jeanne Pruett are also retired, they both are still around Nashville and are involved with Opry events. Jeanne is a backstage visitor to the show, while Barbara is still involved in the music industry. Ricky is in Virginia and shows no sign on coming back to town. Even when he was a member, he was not making a lot of Opry appearances. It is time to give Ricky's spot to someone else.
Now, if these 10 were to go, who could they be replaced with? I have my own list of whom I think would make good Opry members and would support the show. Most of them have been guest artists at the Opry for a number of years and come whenever asked. It is time to take the guest label off of them and make them Opry members. Here is my list of 10:
1) Rhonda Vincent: The person I get asked the most about when it comes to Opry membership is Rhonda Vincent. When is it going to happen? Why is she not a membership? Who at the Opry is mad at her? Is her Martha White association hurting her? Those are the questions I get and I just don't have the answers. From what I have been told, Rhonda would love to be an Opry member. She appears more than most of the members, with 16 appearances over the last 2 years. Here is another fact: of the Opry's 67 members, only 18 are females and that includes several who are retired. The last group of new members have all been male. I think it is time to add some females to the cast to help balance it out. And in the case of Rhonda, she would be only the 2nd female bluegrass artist to be at the Opry.
2) Elizabeth Cook: Like Rhonda, Elizabeth has been a frequent guest artist at the Opry. In Americana music, she has been making a name for herself and brings a lot of energy when singing. She also has a great voice. Over the past 2 years, she has made 29 Opry appearances, more than a majority of the members. Time to bring her on board.
3) Mandy Barnett: Mandy seems to be on the Opry a lot and her past CDs were produced by the Grand Ole Opry and distributed by them. She is a Pete Fisher favorite. No, she has not had any hit records and in that way, I would view her more like former Opry member Marion Worth. Someone with a nice voice that can fill a spot. She has made 39 Opry appearances over the past 2 years. Again, she would not bring star power but would be there.
4) The Grascals: This group is another popular bluegrass act that brings a lot of energy and enthusiasm to their Opry appearances, which have numbered 25 since 2010. They have won numerous bluegrass awards and are headliners on the circuit. Bluegrass music is a foundation of the Opry and with the aging of many of the bluegrass acts, they would fill a void.
5) Crystal Gayle: A legend, she would be the female version of such performers as Mel Tillis, Oak Ridge Boys and Charley Pride. She has had numerous hit records and at some point, will be elected into the Country Music Hall of Fame. She has made guest appearances at the Opry over the years and is well received. I think at some point, she could be an Opry member.
6) Sarah Darling: Ok, I will admit that she is a personal favorite of mine. She is popular with Opry audiences and has the beginnings of a good career going. The Opry has treated her well, much like Brad Paisley and Josh Turner were at the beginning of their careers. Both of those eventually became Opry members and the same could happen to Sarah. She is young, beautiful and talented and good things are going to happen to her in the next few years.
7) Gene Watson: While I don't see this happening, Gene would make an outstanding Opry member. He is a legend who has always done the Opry over the years. I think a lot of the reason why Gene has never become an Opry member is that he does the majority of his touring and work in Texas and Oklahoma and just doesn't get to Nashville often enough. But, he would make a good member.
8) Love and Theft: This group made 12 Opry appearances last year, and were at the Opry the first weekend of this year. They are up and coming and do a nice job. They seem to enjoy the Opry and are well received. They, along with Sarah Darling, would bring some youth to the Opry.
9) Jim Lauderdale: Jim is another popular Nashville artist who's work is much admired by many in the industry. He also is a frequent Opry visitor. He is a star on the Americana music scene and plays all types of music. He also has an appreciation of the history of country music and bluegrass and has recorded and played with many of the legends. He has averaged about 8 Opry appearances over the past several years. In addition, he has hosted his own show on WSM.
10) Jimmy Wayne: Jimmy performs at the Opry so much that most people think he is already a member. ln 2012, he was at the Opry 23 times, while in 2011 it was 17 shows. What hurts Jimmy is that after his first CD, he has not followed it up with anything new. And from what I have been told, he seems to turn some people the wrong way. While the Opry likes him as a guest, they really don't want him to become a member. But everytime the Opry calls, he answers and comes. He would be there more than most of the members. He already is.
Now, while we hope some of this could happen, in reality we know it will not. The Opry is not going to fire 10 of the most popular acts, even if those 10 are not appearing at the Opry. The Opry wants publicity, but not that kind. On the other hand, I think true Opry fans would understand and appreciate the fact that the Opry is doing something to make Opry membership important again.
So for now, the Opry Picture History Book will continue to be filled with pictures of members who rarely appear at the Opry, or not at all. And while new members will continue to say how important Opry membership is to them, the proof is otherwise. And the audiences will continue to see more and more guest artists, and as the Opry continues to blur the line between who is a member and who is not, many in the audience will not know otherwise.
And for true Opry fans, it gives us another topic for discussion.
Wednesday, January 9, 2013
Grand Ole Opry 1/11& 1/12
The Grand Ole Opry has posted the line-ups for the 2 shows this weekend, the Friday Night Opry and the Grand Ole Opry on Saturday night. For a few more weeks, the Opry will continue to be at the Ryman Auditorium.
There is some interesting booking on the shows this week. The Grand Ole Opry fill feature 2 more stars of the "Nashville" television show as Clare Bowen returns for another Opry appearance, joined by veteran performer JD Souther. Also appearing on Saturday night will be comedian Henry Cho and Russell Moore & IIIrd Tyme Out. Opry members Vince Gill and Del McCoury will be appearing both nights, joined on Friday night by Jana Kramer and the legendary Johnny Rivers. I am guessing that this might be Johnny's first Opry appearance. Popular duo Thompson Square will be joining them.
Friday January 11
7:00: Jim Ed Brown (host); Mark Wills; Mike Snider
7:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Jimmy C Newman; Jesse McReynolds; Jana Kramer
Intermission
8:15: Riders In The Sky (host); Jean Shepard; The Whites; Del McCoury Band
8:45: Vince Gill (host); Johnny Rivers; Thompson Square
Saturday January 12
7:00: Opry Square Dancers; Jeannie Seely (host); Josh Thompson; Mike Snider
7:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Connie Smith; Russell Moore & IIIrd Tyme Out
Intermission
8:15: Bill Anderson (host); Del McCoury Band; Henry Cho
8:45: Vince Gill (host); Clare Bowen; JD Souther
Interesting that they are listing the Square Dancers as only appearing on the opening segment. Could they be down to just 1 spot? We will have to wait and see. And, no Jimmy Dickens again this weekend.
To recap, Friday night's show features 14 acts, with 10 Opry members, while Saturday night has 8 Opry members.
On another Opry note, it was announced that CRS and The Grand Ole Opry have joined forces to bring the legendary program to the Feb. 27 opening night of CRS 2013. Brad Paisley, Darius Rucker, Vince Gill, Scotty McCreery and Dustin Lynch will perform, with more guest announcements to come. The "Opry At CRS" will mark a rare appearance for the show away from its usual home at the Grand Ole Opry House or its winter venue, the Ryman Auditorium. "We're excited to deliver a special show featuring some of radio's biggest current hit-makers who are also some of the most popular artists who visit our stage for all our friends in Country radio, when CRS returns to town next month," says Opry VP/GM Pete Fisher. The show immediately follows the Artist/Attendee Opening Reception. CRS Executive Director Bill Mayne says, "My thanks to Pete Fisher and the Opry staff for allowing me to present the show on the opening night of CRS 2013, as both events are such a great fit for each other." CRS 2013 takes place Feb. 27-March 1 at the Nashville Convention Center. (courtesy of Country Aircheck)
I do have a couple of thoughts on this. First, the Opry has performed on the road before. I remember a show they did in Houston many years ago when George Bush was President and I believe it was tied in to the G8 meeting. Secondly, it is nice that the Opry can get Brad Paisley to do a show for a special event, but seems to have a problem getting him to do a show at the Opry House. And finally, 2 of those mentioned are not actual Opry members, although Scotty McCreery and Dustin Lynch are no strangers to the Opry. I am just asking and throwing this out there, and knowing how the Opry likes to make news, but could this be a time to ask Scotty to become the Opry's newest member? Again, not suggesting it. Just asking the question.
Now for this week's look back at the Grand Ole Opry in days gone by with another Opry line-up from the past. I have 2 this week. The 1st one is from Saturday January 12, 1952, 61 years ago this weekend.
7:30: Warren Paint
Roy Acuff (host)
Lew Childre; The Le Croix Sisters; Brother Oswald; Joe Zinkas
7:45: American Ace
Roy Acuff (host)
Uncle Dave Macon; The Jug Band; Jimmy Riddle
8:00: Martha White
Ernest Tubb (host)
Bill Monroe; Maybelle Carter; Hank Snow; The Crook Brothers; Cowboy Copas; June Carter; Chet Atkins
8:30: Prince Albert
Red Foley (host)
Lonzo and Oscar; The Square Dancers; The Jordanaires; Stringbean
9:00: Royal Crown Cola
Roy Acuff (host)
The Fruit Jar Drinkers; George Morgan; Duke Of Paducah; The Le Croix Sisters; Johnny & Jack; Brother Oswald
9:30: Fortune Feed
Carl Smith (host)
Jimmy Dickens; Anita Carter; Jamup & Honey; The Possum Hunters; Moon Mulligan; Hal Smith
10:00: Wall Rite
Bill Monroe (host)
The Old Hickory Singers; George Morgan; Old Joe Clark
10:15: Dr. Le Gear
Roy Acuff (host);
Uncle Dave Macon; Robert Lunn; Big Howdy
10:30: Jefferson Island Salt
Ernest Tubb (host);
Jimmy Dickens; The Gully Jumpers; Johnny & Jack; June Carter; Jordanaires; Chet Atkins; Maybelle Carter
11:00 D Con
Cowboy Copas (host)
Annie Lou and Danny; Moon Mulligan; Lazy Jim Day
11:15 Soltice
Carl Smith (host);
Lew Childre; Sam and Kirk McGee; Hal Smith
11:30: ABC-Chick
Hank Snow (host)
Stringbean; The Crook Brothers
11:45:
George Morgan (host)
Lonza and Oscar; The Fruit Jar Drinkers
The 2nd line-up, and song list, is from Saturday January 12, 1980, 33 years ago.
1st show
6:00: Vietti
Jim Ed Brown (host): w/Helen Cornelius: I Don't Want to Have to Marry You
4 Guys: Fire
David Houston: My Elusive Dreams
Ernie Ashworth: There's No Place I'd Rather Be Tonight
Helen Cornelius: That's What You Do to Me
Jim Ed Brown: The 3 Bells
6:30: Mrs. Grissoms
Del Reeves (host): Lay A Little Lovin' On Me
Jimmy Dickens: Out Behind the Barn
Wilma Lee Cooper: I Don't Care (If Tomorrow Never Comes)
Del Reeves: She Thinks I Still Care
6:45: Rudy's
Bill Monroe (host): Mule Skinner Blues
Vic Willis: Colorado
Bill Monroe: Crying Holy Unto the Lord
7:00: Shoney's
Charlie Louvin (host): See the Big Man Cry
Connie Smith: He Touched Me/When God Dip's His Love In My Heart
Jim & Jesse: Freight Train/Stormy Horizons
Charlie Louvin: Think I'll Go Somewhere And Cry Myself to Sleep/Have I Told You Lately That I Love You
7:30: Standard Candy
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Jean Shepard: Saturday Night Sin
Stonewall Jackson: Me & You & A Dog Named Boo
Charlie Walker: Don't Play Me No Songs About Texas
Crook Brothers/Tennessee Travelers: Eighth of January
Roy Acuff: Thy Burdens Are Greater Than Mine/I'll Fly Away
8:00: Martha White
Billy Walker (host): When A Man Loves A Woman
Jeanne Pruett: Back to Back
Wilburn Brothers: God Bless America Again
Bill Carlisle: Same Old Tale That the Crow Told Me
Osborne Brothers: Take Me Home Country Roads
Billy Walker: You Turn My Love Light On
8:30: Acme
Hank Snow (host): In The Misty Moonlight
Roy Drusky: Remember Me
Marion Worth: Someone Is Looking for Someone Like You
Stu Phillips: Great El Tigrae
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Nubbing Ridge
Hank Snow & Kelly Foxton: Stop Me From Loving You
2nd show
9:30: Kelloggs
Bill Monroe (host): My Sweet Blue Eyed Darling
Jim Ed Brown & Helen Cornelius: Golden Ring
David Houston: Almost Persuaded
Jimmy Dickens: John Henry
4 Guys: Woman, Woman
Wilma Lee Cooper: Poor Ellen Smith
Bill Monroe: Right On
10:00: Fender
Del Reeves (host): The Race is On
Billy Grammer: Spanish Fandango
Ernie Ashworth: The DJ Cried
Del Reeves: Bad News
10:15: Union 76
Roy Acuff (host): Down in Union County
Connie Smith: Sing, Sing, Sing
Charlie Walker: Don't Play Me No Songs About Texas
Roy Acuff: The Things That Might Have Been/I Saw the Light
10:30: Trailblazer
Osborne Brothers (host): Rocky Top
Jean Shepard: Slippin' Away
Vic Willis: Last Cheater's Waltz
Osborne Brothers: Fastest Grass Alive
10:45: Beech-Nut
Roy Drusky (host): Don't It Make You Want to Go Home
Jim & Jesse: Orange Blossom Special
Charlie Louvin & Ernie Ashworth: Houston Is A Honky-Tonk Town
Crook Brothers/Tennessee Travelers: Cotton-Eyed Joe
11:00: Coca-Cola
Hank Snow (host): Gonna Find Me A Bluebird
Billy Walker: You Turn My Love Light On
Marion Worth: New Lips
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Bill Cheatham
Wilburn Brothers: Because He Lives
Kirk McGee: Blue Night
Hank Snow & Kelly Foxton: After the Love Is Gone
11:30: Little Debbie
Stonewall Jackson (host): Don't Be Angry
Jeanne Pruett: Back to Back/Satin Sheets
Stu Phillips: Have I Told You Lately That I Love You/You Win Again/Release Me
Bill Carlisle: No Help Wanted
Stonewall Jackson: Washed My Hands in Muddy Water
There is some interesting booking on the shows this week. The Grand Ole Opry fill feature 2 more stars of the "Nashville" television show as Clare Bowen returns for another Opry appearance, joined by veteran performer JD Souther. Also appearing on Saturday night will be comedian Henry Cho and Russell Moore & IIIrd Tyme Out. Opry members Vince Gill and Del McCoury will be appearing both nights, joined on Friday night by Jana Kramer and the legendary Johnny Rivers. I am guessing that this might be Johnny's first Opry appearance. Popular duo Thompson Square will be joining them.
Friday January 11
7:00: Jim Ed Brown (host); Mark Wills; Mike Snider
7:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Jimmy C Newman; Jesse McReynolds; Jana Kramer
Intermission
8:15: Riders In The Sky (host); Jean Shepard; The Whites; Del McCoury Band
8:45: Vince Gill (host); Johnny Rivers; Thompson Square
Saturday January 12
7:00: Opry Square Dancers; Jeannie Seely (host); Josh Thompson; Mike Snider
7:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Connie Smith; Russell Moore & IIIrd Tyme Out
Intermission
8:15: Bill Anderson (host); Del McCoury Band; Henry Cho
8:45: Vince Gill (host); Clare Bowen; JD Souther
Interesting that they are listing the Square Dancers as only appearing on the opening segment. Could they be down to just 1 spot? We will have to wait and see. And, no Jimmy Dickens again this weekend.
To recap, Friday night's show features 14 acts, with 10 Opry members, while Saturday night has 8 Opry members.
On another Opry note, it was announced that CRS and The Grand Ole Opry have joined forces to bring the legendary program to the Feb. 27 opening night of CRS 2013. Brad Paisley, Darius Rucker, Vince Gill, Scotty McCreery and Dustin Lynch will perform, with more guest announcements to come. The "Opry At CRS" will mark a rare appearance for the show away from its usual home at the Grand Ole Opry House or its winter venue, the Ryman Auditorium. "We're excited to deliver a special show featuring some of radio's biggest current hit-makers who are also some of the most popular artists who visit our stage for all our friends in Country radio, when CRS returns to town next month," says Opry VP/GM Pete Fisher. The show immediately follows the Artist/Attendee Opening Reception. CRS Executive Director Bill Mayne says, "My thanks to Pete Fisher and the Opry staff for allowing me to present the show on the opening night of CRS 2013, as both events are such a great fit for each other." CRS 2013 takes place Feb. 27-March 1 at the Nashville Convention Center. (courtesy of Country Aircheck)
I do have a couple of thoughts on this. First, the Opry has performed on the road before. I remember a show they did in Houston many years ago when George Bush was President and I believe it was tied in to the G8 meeting. Secondly, it is nice that the Opry can get Brad Paisley to do a show for a special event, but seems to have a problem getting him to do a show at the Opry House. And finally, 2 of those mentioned are not actual Opry members, although Scotty McCreery and Dustin Lynch are no strangers to the Opry. I am just asking and throwing this out there, and knowing how the Opry likes to make news, but could this be a time to ask Scotty to become the Opry's newest member? Again, not suggesting it. Just asking the question.
Now for this week's look back at the Grand Ole Opry in days gone by with another Opry line-up from the past. I have 2 this week. The 1st one is from Saturday January 12, 1952, 61 years ago this weekend.
7:30: Warren Paint
Roy Acuff (host)
Lew Childre; The Le Croix Sisters; Brother Oswald; Joe Zinkas
7:45: American Ace
Roy Acuff (host)
Uncle Dave Macon; The Jug Band; Jimmy Riddle
8:00: Martha White
Ernest Tubb (host)
Bill Monroe; Maybelle Carter; Hank Snow; The Crook Brothers; Cowboy Copas; June Carter; Chet Atkins
8:30: Prince Albert
Red Foley (host)
Lonzo and Oscar; The Square Dancers; The Jordanaires; Stringbean
9:00: Royal Crown Cola
Roy Acuff (host)
The Fruit Jar Drinkers; George Morgan; Duke Of Paducah; The Le Croix Sisters; Johnny & Jack; Brother Oswald
9:30: Fortune Feed
Carl Smith (host)
Jimmy Dickens; Anita Carter; Jamup & Honey; The Possum Hunters; Moon Mulligan; Hal Smith
10:00: Wall Rite
Bill Monroe (host)
The Old Hickory Singers; George Morgan; Old Joe Clark
10:15: Dr. Le Gear
Roy Acuff (host);
Uncle Dave Macon; Robert Lunn; Big Howdy
10:30: Jefferson Island Salt
Ernest Tubb (host);
Jimmy Dickens; The Gully Jumpers; Johnny & Jack; June Carter; Jordanaires; Chet Atkins; Maybelle Carter
11:00 D Con
Cowboy Copas (host)
Annie Lou and Danny; Moon Mulligan; Lazy Jim Day
11:15 Soltice
Carl Smith (host);
Lew Childre; Sam and Kirk McGee; Hal Smith
11:30: ABC-Chick
Hank Snow (host)
Stringbean; The Crook Brothers
11:45:
George Morgan (host)
Lonza and Oscar; The Fruit Jar Drinkers
The 2nd line-up, and song list, is from Saturday January 12, 1980, 33 years ago.
1st show
6:00: Vietti
Jim Ed Brown (host): w/Helen Cornelius: I Don't Want to Have to Marry You
4 Guys: Fire
David Houston: My Elusive Dreams
Ernie Ashworth: There's No Place I'd Rather Be Tonight
Helen Cornelius: That's What You Do to Me
Jim Ed Brown: The 3 Bells
6:30: Mrs. Grissoms
Del Reeves (host): Lay A Little Lovin' On Me
Jimmy Dickens: Out Behind the Barn
Wilma Lee Cooper: I Don't Care (If Tomorrow Never Comes)
Del Reeves: She Thinks I Still Care
6:45: Rudy's
Bill Monroe (host): Mule Skinner Blues
Vic Willis: Colorado
Bill Monroe: Crying Holy Unto the Lord
7:00: Shoney's
Charlie Louvin (host): See the Big Man Cry
Connie Smith: He Touched Me/When God Dip's His Love In My Heart
Jim & Jesse: Freight Train/Stormy Horizons
Charlie Louvin: Think I'll Go Somewhere And Cry Myself to Sleep/Have I Told You Lately That I Love You
7:30: Standard Candy
Roy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball
Jean Shepard: Saturday Night Sin
Stonewall Jackson: Me & You & A Dog Named Boo
Charlie Walker: Don't Play Me No Songs About Texas
Crook Brothers/Tennessee Travelers: Eighth of January
Roy Acuff: Thy Burdens Are Greater Than Mine/I'll Fly Away
8:00: Martha White
Billy Walker (host): When A Man Loves A Woman
Jeanne Pruett: Back to Back
Wilburn Brothers: God Bless America Again
Bill Carlisle: Same Old Tale That the Crow Told Me
Osborne Brothers: Take Me Home Country Roads
Billy Walker: You Turn My Love Light On
8:30: Acme
Hank Snow (host): In The Misty Moonlight
Roy Drusky: Remember Me
Marion Worth: Someone Is Looking for Someone Like You
Stu Phillips: Great El Tigrae
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Nubbing Ridge
Hank Snow & Kelly Foxton: Stop Me From Loving You
2nd show
9:30: Kelloggs
Bill Monroe (host): My Sweet Blue Eyed Darling
Jim Ed Brown & Helen Cornelius: Golden Ring
David Houston: Almost Persuaded
Jimmy Dickens: John Henry
4 Guys: Woman, Woman
Wilma Lee Cooper: Poor Ellen Smith
Bill Monroe: Right On
10:00: Fender
Del Reeves (host): The Race is On
Billy Grammer: Spanish Fandango
Ernie Ashworth: The DJ Cried
Del Reeves: Bad News
10:15: Union 76
Roy Acuff (host): Down in Union County
Connie Smith: Sing, Sing, Sing
Charlie Walker: Don't Play Me No Songs About Texas
Roy Acuff: The Things That Might Have Been/I Saw the Light
10:30: Trailblazer
Osborne Brothers (host): Rocky Top
Jean Shepard: Slippin' Away
Vic Willis: Last Cheater's Waltz
Osborne Brothers: Fastest Grass Alive
10:45: Beech-Nut
Roy Drusky (host): Don't It Make You Want to Go Home
Jim & Jesse: Orange Blossom Special
Charlie Louvin & Ernie Ashworth: Houston Is A Honky-Tonk Town
Crook Brothers/Tennessee Travelers: Cotton-Eyed Joe
11:00: Coca-Cola
Hank Snow (host): Gonna Find Me A Bluebird
Billy Walker: You Turn My Love Light On
Marion Worth: New Lips
Fruit Jar Drinkers: Bill Cheatham
Wilburn Brothers: Because He Lives
Kirk McGee: Blue Night
Hank Snow & Kelly Foxton: After the Love Is Gone
11:30: Little Debbie
Stonewall Jackson (host): Don't Be Angry
Jeanne Pruett: Back to Back/Satin Sheets
Stu Phillips: Have I Told You Lately That I Love You/You Win Again/Release Me
Bill Carlisle: No Help Wanted
Stonewall Jackson: Washed My Hands in Muddy Water
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