Watch Steve Earle Officially Join the Grand Ole Opry
Steve Earle is now part of the Grand Ole Opry family. The multi-GRAMMY winner was inducted on Sept. 17, 2025, with longtime friend and Opry member Emmylou Harris doing the honors during a packed Opry 100 show in Nashville.
A night built on songs and friendship
Earle marked the milestone with a run of signature cuts, including “Guitar Town,” “Hillbilly Highway,” and a rousing “Copperhead Road.” Before that final song, he summed up the weight of the moment: there’s never been a time since he first picked up a guitar that he didn’t want to stand on the Opry stage, and becoming a member is “about as good as it’s ever going to get.” The induction captured the easy warmth between Earle and Harris, whose onstage introduction framed him as a steadfast friend, an inspiration, and a songwriter who “went through the fire” and came out stronger.
From surprise invite to Opry member
Back in April, Vince Gill surprised Earle on the Opry stage with a custom Opry100 guitar strap and the invitation to join, delivering the first new membership offer of 2025. Earle, visibly moved, returned the favor with another song. That invite set up Wednesday’s induction, cementing one of roots music’s most respected storytellers in country’s most storied circle.
Why this induction matters
Earle becomes the first artist inducted during the Opry’s centennial year, a celebration that has placed extra focus on legacy, songwriting, and community. His catalog defines that mix. “Copperhead Road” is now an official Tennessee state song, while his work has been covered by icons from Johnny Cash and Willie Nelson to Patty Loveless and Eric Clapton. Beyond records, Earle’s creative footprint spans books, production credits, acting roles, and a long-running SiriusXM show. It is a résumé tailor-made for the Opry’s living-history stage.
An all-star welcome
The evening doubled as a salute from peers: Emmylou Harris, Vince Gill, Connie Smith, Marty Stuart, Don Schlitz, and Deana Carter all appeared to mark the occasion. Stuart previewed the family spirit earlier in the night, inviting Earle out with a simple greeting—“Welcome to the Grand Ole Opry… it’s family”—before the pair performed “My Old Friend The Blues” together.
What’s next at the Opry
The Opry’s centennial calendar rolls on. Kathy Mattea is set for official induction on Oct. 11, continuing a year of membership milestones that honor the show’s first 100 years.
