For nearly a century, the Grand Ole Opry has stood as the heart of country music, earning its place as “The Show That Made Country Music Famous.” What began in 1925 as a humble radio broadcast on WSM-AM has grown into the longest-running live radio show in history and a cultural institution woven into the fabric of American music.
From its earliest days, the Opry has been where country music finds its home and where its future is forged. As listeners across the United States tuned in every week to hear fiddle tunes and string bands, a beloved tradition began. The Opry quickly became what it remains today, the place where careers are launched, legends are made, and all styles of country music are celebrated in new ways every week.
In 1943, as the show’s popularity soared and demand to see the in-person, live performances grew, the Opry found a new home at the historic Ryman Auditorium. There, legends like Patsy Cline, Johnny Cash, and Dolly Parton graced the stage, helping to solidify the Opry as the heart of country music. In 1974, the show moved to its current home, the Grand Ole Opry House, but a piece of the beloved Ryman came with it. A six-foot circle of wood from the Ryman stage was placed at center stage, preserving the show’s connection to its storied past. Every artist who steps into that circle adds their voice to an unbroken legacy, embodying the spirit of the Opry’s unofficial anthem, “Will the Circle Be Unbroken.”
At the heart of the Opry is its cast of members, a group of artists who have been invited to join the Opry family and represent the show’s commitment to country music. Becoming an Opry member is often considered the highest honor in country music. There is no formula or checklist for induction; it’s earned through artistry, consistency, and a deep connection to the Opry. Today, the Opry family includes more than 70 living members, a dynamic cast that spans generations, genres, and backgrounds. From trailblazers like Jeannie Seely and Vince Gill to stars like Luke Combs and Lainey Wilson, each member carries forward the tradition while adding their own voice to the Opry story.
With more shows than ever before, the Opry welcomes fans worldwide to experience the heart of country music on a legendary stage in Nashville. From its first televised broadcast in 1978, the Opry has continued to expand its reach so that everyone, no matter where they are in the world, can experience the magic of the show.
As it celebrates its 100th year, the Grand Ole Opry remains committed to honoring the past, celebrating the present and shaping the future of country music—for Tennessee and the world.
