Luke Combs took center stage on March 19, 2025, during the Opry 100: A Live Celebration, marking the Grand Ole Opry's centennial celebration with deeply personal reflections and memorable performances.
Recalling his first encounter with the legendary venue, Combs shared how his first attempt to attend an Opry show ended in disappointment when car troubles forced him and a friend to miss Ashley Monroe's performance during a college spring break trip. Instead, he reached out to Monroe on Twitter to express his regret, a connection that led to her signing his album, which Combs cherishes to this day.
"I told her, 'One day, I’m going to play the Opry, and I’m going to play with you,'" Combs recalled. Years later, that promise came full circle when he reunited with Monroe at the BMI Songwriters Festival in Maui, where they performed together.
During the anniversary event, Combs delivered a heartfelt performance of his hit single "Hurricane," a song that first catapulted him to fame almost nine years ago during his Grand Ole Opry debut. "I’m so glad to be here to celebrate the Opry’s big night," he remarked, underscoring the significance of the moment.
In addition to “Hurricane,” Combs paid homage to country music legends by performing George Jones’ classic “The Grand Tour,” demonstrating his respect for the genre while celebrating his own journey.
Combs, whose debut album, "This One’s for You," featured the breakout hit "Hurricane," is not just a celebrated performer but also an authentic artist with roots in the storytelling tradition of country music. "I just love writing songs and singing them," he shared with Rolling Stone. "People seem to enjoy them, and that’s all you can really ask for.
Despite his meteoric rise in the music industry, Combs remains grounded. "I’ve always been a super regular guy. I think there’s kind of a comfortability with me onstage – and I think my cool factor is not having one. I’m not extra cool or extra different. I’m an honest dude, not trying to be anything other than who I am," he stated.
As part of his ongoing achievements, Luke Combs is soon to be honored with a star on the Walk of Fame in Nashville on March 20, 2025, highlighting his contributions to country music and the industry at large.
In addition to his current recognition, Combs has been performing on various stages, scheduled to appear at festivals such as Stagecoach, Boston Calling, and Bonnaroo this spring and summer, showcasing his continued relevance and popularity in the ever-evolving music landscape.
Last year, the country music star was nominated for a Grammy for Best Country Solo Performance for his soulful rendition of Tracy Chapman’s hit “Fast Car,” solidifying his status as a serious contender in the music world.
As Luke Combs continues to make strides in his career, his storytelling through music resonates deeply with fans across the globe. His journey from a college student missing an Opry show to becoming one of country music's leading voices serves as an inspiring narrative in itself, emphasizing the power of dreams and perseverance.
The Grand Ole Opry not only provided a platform for Combs but has also showcased countless artists over the last century, serving as a beacon of country music's rich history and future.
With ongoing celebrations, Luke Combs remains a prominent figure in the festivities, embodying the spirit of what the Grand Ole Opry stands for—a connection between artists and their audience, a celebration of heritage, and a testimony that the country music genre continues to thrive.
