The Grand Ole Opry celebrated its illustrious 100-year anniversary on March 19, 2025, presenting a star-studded live special titled "Opry 100: A Live Celebration." This milestone was not just a commemoration of the past but also a vibrant showcase of the genre’s current and emerging talent, emphasizing the ongoing love for country music.
This momentous event was hosted by country music star Blake Shelton, himself a member of the Opry family, who expressed his deep-rooted affection for the institution. “Becoming a member of the Opry is a highlight of my life and career,” Shelton stated, underscoring the significance of the event with every artist who graced the stage.
The evening began at 8 p.m. ET and promised three hours of captivating performances broadcasted on NBC and Peacock, a testament to its enduring legacy. Attendees and viewers alike could expect performances from icons like Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood, alongside newer stars such as Kelsea Ballerini.
During the special, Ballerini, who was inducted into the Opry in 2019, took the stage to perform a heartfelt rendition of Barbara Mandrell’s classic "I Was Country When Country Wasn’t Cool." In an inspiring moment, Mandrell herself re-emerged from her semi-retirement to introduce Ballerini, bridging generational gaps within the country music world. Reflecting on her childhood experiences, Mandrell recalled how she faced teasing over her love for country music, but the same peers later came to cherish artists like her.
“I love it. It’s everything to me,” Mandrell said passionately about country music, encapsulating the event's essence.
The Opry 100 special included a lineup of performances celebrating the legends and their lasting influence. Notable performances included Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood paying tribute to country greats George Jones and Tammy Wynette, while Reba McEntire honored the memories of Patsy Cline and Loretta Lynn. Meanwhile, Keith Urban performed Crystal Gayle’s iconic "Don’t It Make My Brown Eyes Blue" while she watched in admiration from the audience.
Country music fans were treated to a variety of performances that showcased the genres rich history and contemporary relevance. Aloe Blacc and the McCrary Sisters honored Charley Pride with their rendition of "Kiss An Angel Good Mornin’," while Jelly Roll and Ashley McBryde took the audience back in time with a tribute to country royalty, Johnny Cash and June Carter.
This mix of nostalgia and modernity illustrated the Opry’s role as a nurturing ground for both established icons and budding artists. The event served as a reminder of the community that the Opry fosters among its members. “The Opry is a force that breathes a love for country music’s history,” Ballerini remarked, emphasizing the ongoing relevance of the Opry in the music industry.
The Grand Ole Opry, recognized in the Guinness Book of World Records for being the world’s longest-running radio broadcast, debuted on November 28, 1925. Originally known as the "Barn Dance," it evolved into the beloved institution it is today, moving from the Ryman Auditorium where it held sway from 1943 to 1974 to the modern Grand Ole Opry House east of downtown Nashville.
The special aired on NBC, signaling the importance of the Opry not just to country music but to American cultural heritage as a whole. As artists gathered to celebrate their shared history, it became clear that the Opry plays a vital role in uniting voices across generations and styles.
In blending the past with the present, the Opry 100 celebration not only honored those who laid the groundwork for country music but also paved the way for its future. While the night was a grand celebration, it was also a call to recognize that the Opry continues to play an integral role in shaping the narratives of countless artists and fans.
As we reflect on this historic milestone, one cannot help but be excited about what lies ahead for the Grand Ole Opry. With its commitment to showcasing talent and preserving the rich tradition of country music, the Opry promises to remain a beloved institution for another century and beyond.
