The Grand Ole Opry is basking in the glow of its centennial anniversary, and what a celebration it was! On March 19, 2025, the Opry’s famed venue transformed into an enthralling stage for world-renowned country music stars, marking a hundred years of its illustrious history of broadcasting country music. The event, aptly named 'Opry 100: A Live Celebration', was a star-studded showcase that thrilled audiences nationwide, broadcast live on NBC from the Grand Ole Opry House and Ryman Auditorium.
The evening was a delightful blend of nostalgia and contemporary artistry, with performances paying tribute to country music's legendary icons. Kicking off the celebration was the iconic Reba McEntire, who filled the air with the powerful notes of Loretta Lynn’s “You Ain’t Woman Enough,” setting a promising precedent. As the evening unfolded, it became increasingly clear that we were in for a memorable evening of heartfelt music, stripped bare of the pop overlays that often characterize modern country music presentations.
One of the standout moments of the night came when Ashley McBryde joined Post Malone to perform a stirring rendition of “Jackson,” a classic duet originally made famous by Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash, who first met backstage at the Opry in 1956 and married twelve years later. This tribute was particularly poignant, given the legendary couple's lasting legacy in country music. Malone, a lifelong devotee of Cash, with a tattoo of the country music titan on his arm, stepped in at the last minute to replace Jelly Roll, who had to bow out due to illness.
McBryde, who made her Opry debut in June 2017, became a member in December 2022, and this performance marked her 22nd time ascending the Opry stage. Reflecting on the impact of the Opry in her life, McBryde recalled the emotional moment when she was invited to join by Garth Brooks during a live television appearance. "When he said, ‘Will you do us the honor of becoming the newest member of the Grand Ole Opry?’ there was no way to avoid crying," she stated before stepping on stage. This perfect blend of personal history and professional achievement made her tribute even more significant.
The concert was not merely about nostalgic homages. It also featured vibrant performances from both seasoned and newer artists. Trisha Yearwood teamed up once again with Reba McEntire for another powerful performance, this time of “The Night The Lights Went Out in Georgia.” Jamey Johnson, Ketch Secor, and Dierks Bentley paid tribute to the late Charlie Daniels with an energetic cover of “Drinkin’ My Baby Goodbye.” An additional highlight was when Lainey Wilson performed alongside Marty Stuart, with a borrowed guitar from Hank Williams, creating a genuine moment of reverence for the roots of country music.
Emphasizing the Opry's importance in the musical landscape, Eric Church shared a deeply moving story of his own association with the venue. He recounted performing there shortly after the Las Vegas mass shooting in 2017. “It was the Opry that put one piece of my heart back together,” Church stated, as he reflected on the healing power of music and community.
Among the emotional high points was the performance by Randy Travis, who honored Carrie Underwood—the artist he invited to join the Opry back in 2008. Watching from the audience, his presence was a profound reminder of the legacy that intertwines the artists and showcases the stories that bring them together.
The showcase wasn’t just about tributes; it reminded everyone of the remarkable array of diversity in the country genre. Post Malone’s hip-hop-flavored approach became an unexpected yet refreshing aspect of the celebration. After his duet with McBryde, he teamed up with Travis Tritt to perform “T-R-O-U-B-L-E.” While it began tentatively, they soon found their groove, representing the genre’s evolution.
As the night drew on, Keith Urban’s performance of “Don’t It Make My Brown Eyes Blue,” and Alan Jackson’s classic “Chattahoochee” made their mark. Jackson, despite his health challenges, commanded the stage with his rich voice, prompting thunderous applause from the audience.
Ashley McBryde was not alone in her welcoming approach to the classics. Carly Pearce, invited to become an Opry member by Dolly Parton, touched hearts with her rendition of the timeless classic “Jolene,” making it a night rich in storytelling and connections.
Veteran performers like Brad Paisley, Alison Krauss, and Vince Gill wove a tapestry of history with their heartfelt tributes, each moment carefully crafted to recognize the legacy of those who have passed on. Gill paid tribute with “Go Rest High On That Mountain,” consolidating the evening’s theme of remembrance and homage.
The grand finale had all performers take to the stage, culminating in a rousing performance of Dolly Parton’s “I Will Always Love You,” symbolizing unity and a shared love for the genre. It was evident that while many legends have departed, their spirits continue to shine in the hearts of those who gather at the Opry.
In celebrating its 100-year legacy, the Grand Ole Opry has etched its importance into the fabric of country music history. This centennial special boldly showcased that, despite the challenges of the evolving musical landscape, country music continues to resonate with audiences across generations. As the night concluded, there was a palpable sense of gratitude and hope that the next hundred years could be just as resonant and impactful.
