The Grand Ole Opry wrapped a century of musical history with a star-studded event dubbed Opry 100: A Live Celebration, held on March 19, 2025. Country music’s biggest stars gathered at the iconic Nashville venue, where they paid tribute to the institution that has shaped countless careers and honored those who have passed through its legendary doors.
Among the standout performances was Carly Pearce, who took a moment to honor her musical hero, Dolly Parton. As she began her tribute, she empathetically addressed Parton, who recently lost her husband, Carl Dean. "Dolly, I just want you to know that my heart goes out to you and your family," Pearce said, eliciting a heartfelt reaction from the crowd.
Choosing to perform Parton’s timeless classic, "Jolene," Pearce highlighted the song’s significance and her personal connection to the legend. "That was probably the most surprised I’ve ever been in my life," Pearce recalled of the unforgettable day in June 2021 when Parton invited her to become a member of the Opry. In an emotional expression, she likened the moment to a proposal, explaining, "I heard her say the word ‘Opry’ several times in 30 seconds. I can only equate it to how a girl feels when she thinks she’s getting engaged." Pearce’s tribute was not just a performance; it was a full-circle moment, marking her journey in country music.
The evening was brightly lit by celebrity guests and performances, hosted by Blake Shelton, who shared his own sentiments about the Opry. "Becoming a member of the Opry is a highlight of my life and career, and 15 years later I still get that same feeling of reverence and excitement every time I walk out on that stage," he expressed, outlining the Opry's impact on the country music community.
Stars like Trisha Yearwood, Garth Brooks, and Reba McEntire also lit up the night, with Yearwood stunning in a floor-length black wrap dress. Performances were plentiful, featuring tributes to other iconic figures like Patsy Cline and Loretta Lynn, honoring their legacies within the country music scene.
The show not only showcased the emotional depth of Pearce’s homage but also presented a blend of nostalgia and celebration and provided viewers with a retrospective of legendary Opry moments. As Shelton pointed out, "The Grand Ole Opry has been connecting the country music family for 100 years, and I’m so proud to be part of this historic celebration.”
Fans tuning in via NBC and Peacock were treated to an abundance of performances that evening. The lineup included not just Pearce and Shelton but also a variety of renowned country artists like Luke Combs, who recalled how his love for country music sprouted from listening to it with his mother, stating that Vince Gill was his first concert. The warmth radiating from the stars not only celebrated the Opry’s milestone but also reflected the bonds formed through shared music.
As performers took to the stage, Opry 100 became a celebration of musical unity, where the old and new intertwined seamlessly through heartfelt tributes and energetic performances. Pearce noted, "I dreamt of becoming a member of the Grand Ole Opry my whole life. It really is, out of everything that I’ve been able to accomplish, my highest honor." This celebration of the Opry was not just about the past; it also paved the way for aspiring artists looking to follow in their footsteps.
Opry 100: A Live Celebration affirmed the Grand Ole Opry’s relevance and legacy in the world of country music, illustrating the genre's ability to evolve while remaining true to its roots. Moments like these encapsulate the essence of country music—stories told through lyrics and melodies that reach across generations. The evening reminded everyone why the Opry holds a special place in the hearts of many, a testament to its enduring legacy as it embarks on its next century.
