Sunday, October 4, 2015

Grand Ole Opry Celebrates 90th Birthday


NASHVILLE, Tenn.  (October 3, 2015) - The Grand Ole Opry® presented by Humana® celebrated its 90th birthday this weekend with superstar performances throughout four Opry shows, free Opry Plaza Birthday Parties, and more. Weekend performers rounded out each show by singing “Happy Birthday” alongside a larger-than-life Opry 90th birthday cake accompanied by sold-out audiences.


After a surprise on-stage collaboration between The Oak Ridge Boys and Little Big Town on the Oaks’ classic “Elvira” Friday night, both groups were presented Opry member 90th anniversary member gifts by Opry Vice President and General Manager Pete Fisher. “For 90 years, Opry members have been the heart and soul of the show that made country music famous,” Fisher said. “Moments like these connecting generations of great country artists are what the Grand Ole Opry is all about.” The gifts to be presented to all members over the next few months are replicas of new backstage artwork unveiled Friday night in honor of the Opry’s membership.


On Saturday, one of America’s most trusted and beloved journalists and long-time country music and Grand Ole Opry fan Robin Roberts trekked to Nashville for the 90th anniversary celebration. The Good Morning America anchor introduced superstar and Grand Ole Opry member Carrie Underwood, who celebrated alongside a bevy of Opry members including The Oak Ridge Boys, Larry Gatlin and the Gatlin Brothers, Trace Adkins, and more.


Throughout the weekend, fans packed the Opry Plaza for free performances including an Opry salute by stars of ABC’s NASHVILLE—Charles Esten, Sam Palladio, Chris Carmack, and Aubrey Peeples.

The Opry’s 90th Anniversary celebration continues Tuesday, October 6 with appearances by Alan Jackson, Miranda Lambert, Marty Stuart, and more as well as upcoming appearances by Kelsea Ballerini, Easton Corbin, Charlie Daniels Band, Loretta Lynn, Alison Krauss, Rascal Flatts, and many others.