Grand Ole Opry kicks off centennial celebrations with Jimmy Carter tribute

On Saturday, January 4, 2025, the Opry paid tribute to Jimmy Carter, the longest-living President of the United States, who passed away at the age of 100. Carter, the 39th president from 1977 to 1981, had visited the Opry multiple times before, during, and after his presidency. In his honor, Opry member Charlie McCoy performed “Georgia On My Mind,” the official state song of Carter’s home state.

Tributes to the beloved politician and humanitarian poured in worldwide, culminating in his funeral on Thursday, January 9. Services and ceremonies will be held at the U.S. Capitol, the Carter Presidential Center in Atlanta, and in his hometown of Plains, Georgia.

Meanwhile, the Grand Ole Opry is also celebrating a milestone: 2025 marks its 100th anniversary! This iconic institution is gearing up for a year-long celebration, reflecting on its rich history.

Did you know the Opry began as the WSM Barn Dance on November 28, 1925? It was first broadcast from the fifth-floor radio studio of the National Life & Accident Insurance Company in Nashville. Imagine witnessing that inaugural barn dance – the very show that launched country music into fame!

The Opry has always been a cornerstone of Nashville, Tennessee (aka Music City). From 1943 to 1974, it called the Ryman Auditorium home. Today, you can visit “The Mother Church of Country Music” to experience magical country moments, see iconic concert outfits and instruments, and snap a photo with the legendary stage microphone.

Since 1974, the Grand Ole Opry has had its own venue on Opryland Drive, east of Downtown Nashville, where becoming an Opry member remains one of country music’s highest honours. Over the last century, every legendary country artist has stepped into the sacred circle, yet only about 225 acts have earned membership among thousands of performers.

From Luke Combs to recent inductees like Lainey Wilson and Scotty McCreery, the iconic Little Big Town and award-winning songwriter Don Schlitz, the Opry is a bucket-list dream for country stars. The best part? It’s STILL broadcast live on WSM Radio, so if you’re lucky enough to get tickets, gear up for a spine-tingling, unforgettable experience… and don’t forget to buy the retro dated poster in the Opry shop!

So, who’s stepping into the iconic circle this January?

• On January 18, Ashley Cooke, Chapel Hart, Don Schlitz, Shaboozey, and more will perform at “Opry Goes Dolly,” celebrating Dolly Parton’s 79th birthday
• Lainey Wilson, Mandy Barnett, Drew Parker, and Old Crow Medicine Show will appear at Opry at the Ryman, for old times sake
• Later this month, Nate Smith, The Oak Ridge Boys, Trace Adkins, and Larkin Poe will take the stage for more Opry 100 shows

Also, throughout the year, the Opry will host “Opry 100 Honors,” a tribute series celebrating legends like Johnny Cash, June Carter Cash, Patsy Cline, Loretta Lynn, and Hank Williams.

This huge celebration isn’t confined to Nashville though! For the first time ever, the Grand Ole Opry will venture overseas, hosting a special concert at London’s historic Royal Albert Hall to mark its centennial. Stay tuned for updates on this debut event!