The Grand Ole Opry, a cornerstone of country music history, is celebrating its 100th year of live radio broadcasting. To mark this historic milestone, some of its most iconic members and performers gathered at Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium last Friday (January 3) to usher in a new century of musical tradition.
Headlining the event was “Whisperin’” Bill Anderson, the Opry’s longest-tenured member and a 1961 inductee. Anderson joined a star-studded lineup for the three-hour celebration, which included performances by fellow Opry members Connie Smith, Charlie McCoy, Mandy Barnett, Craig Morgan, The Travelin’ McCourys, and reigning CMA Musician of the Year, Charlie Worsham.
The evening featured a mix of timeless classics and fresh takes, including Worsham’s rendition of Keith Urban’s 2003 hit “Who Wouldn’t Wanna Be Me.” Other memorable performances included Hank Williams’ “Your Cheatin’ Heart” and Vince Gill’s “One More Last Chance.”
Founded on November 28, 1925, by George D. Hay, the Grand Ole Opry began as the WSM Barn Dance, broadcasting from the fifth-floor studio of the National Life and Accident Insurance Company in downtown Nashville. Over the decades, it has become the beating heart of country music, hosting legends from Merle Haggard to today’s stars like Lainey Wilson.
As the Opry celebrates its centennial, it continues to honor its rich legacy while embracing the future of country music.
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