What It Takes To Be Invited As A Member Of The Grand Ole Opry
Being invited to join the Grand Ole Opry is one of the highest honors a country music singer can receive. Known as the “home of country music,” the Opry has been the heart of the genre for nearly 100 years by creating a platform where legendary artists and rising stars can share their music.
There are currently 75 members of the Grand Ole Opry, including stars like Dolly Parton, Carrie Underwood, Luke Combs, Alan Jackson, and more.
So, How Does One Receive An Invitation To Become An Opry Member?
There isn’t a clear formula for how the Opry selects new members. Many factors do play a role in the decision, however. You don’t necessarily have to be a legendary artist with a long career to be inducted, either.
According to the venue’s official website, Opry’s management decides who will join.
“Opry management looks for a musical and a generational balance. Opry membership requires a passion for country music’s fans, a connection to the music’s history, and it requires commitment – even a willingness to make significant sacrifices to uphold that commitment.
The Opry doesn’t base its decision solely on how often an artist performs there. Instead, a big part of it comes from the artist’s connection with their fans. This matters just as much as their talent and accomplishments.
“It comes down to just one word: relationships. The relationships between performers and fans. The relationships Opry members have with each other, relationships that may last for decades. And, perhaps most importantly, the relationship between each artist and the ideal of the Grand Ole Opry.”
It is also required that each inductee must perform at the Grand Ole Opry at least 10 times a year to keep their membership.
The Grand Ole Opry Celebrates 100 Years
This year, the Opry is celebrating its 100th anniversary. To honor the history of the iconic venue, the biggest country stars came together on Wednesday night, March 19, for a special televised event called Opry 100.
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Broadcast live from the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville, Tennessee, the event featured performances from over 40 artists.
Some of the night’s highlights included performances from Alan Jackson, Clint Black, and Vince Gill. Additionally, there were many surprise duets throughout the night, like Reba McEntire with Trisha Yearwood, Post Malone with Ashley McBryde, and Brad Paisley with Alison Krauss.