“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
I’m still getting goosebumps as I recall last Wednesday evening, March 19, when I had the extraordinary privilege of witnessing history unfold before my very eyes. The legendary Grand Ole Opry celebrated an incredible milestone with its televised special “Opry 100,” a magnificent commemoration marking a full century of country music excellence. This breathtaking broadcast brought together an absolutely stellar lineup of inducted members and special guests, all gathered to honor this iconic institution that has served as the very heartbeat of American music for 100 remarkable years.
For anyone who has ever fallen deeply in love with country music (like myself!), the sacred stage of the Grand Ole Opry represents the ultimate achievement—a dream that burns brightly in the hearts of aspiring artists everywhere. I found myself completely awestruck watching more than 30 phenomenal performers unite for this once-in-a-lifetime celebration. The legendary veterans who’ve shaped the very essence of country music were all present: Vince Gill with those heavenly vocals that can bring tears streaming down your face, Alan Jackson radiating that unmistakable traditional country charm, Clint Black delivering his signature sound that instantly transports me back to my childhood, and countless others whose illustrious careers have been beautifully intertwined with the Opry’s magnificent legacy.
This special evening wasn’t merely focused on celebrating the glorious past, though. One of the Opry’s brightest rising stars, Lainey Wilson, delivered a performance that left me absolutely spellbound. My heart swelled with emotion when she performed her breakthrough hit “Things A Man Oughta Know” alongside the incomparable country legend Marty Stuart. There was something truly magical about witnessing her authentic, powerful delivery complemented by his masterful musicianship—creating this perfect moment that beautifully bridged country music’s rich history with its promising future.
And believe me, the enchantment didn’t stop there! In what I personally felt was the evening’s most soul-stirring tribute, Wilson and Stuart paid homage to the immortal Hank Williams with an absolutely haunting rendition of “Lost Highway.” Their harmonies seemed to transcend time itself, channeling the very essence of Williams’ spirit and reminding everyone fortunate enough to witness it of the enduring, timeless soul of country music.
What makes Wilson’s participation in this historic event even more meaningful is her recent induction story. On May 21, 2024, during The Voice’s Season 25 finale, Wilson experienced what must have been the most beautiful shock of her career when none other than country music royalty Reba McEntire extended the coveted invitation to join the Opry family. I couldn’t help but feel emotional myself watching the genuine surprise wash over Wilson’s face as she, having just finished her performance on the show, was completely caught off-guard when McEntire gracefully walked onstage to ask the question every country artist dreams of hearing.
The Nashville performance at the Ryan Auditorium featured Wilson and Stuart among a thoughtfully curated group of artists representing the Opry’s extraordinary legacy. Their “Lost Highway” performance carried an even deeper significance as Wilson actually played Williams’ historic guitar—an instrument that has helped craft the very soundtrack of country music as we know it. I literally felt chills race down my spine watching her fingers dance across those same legendary strings that Williams once played, creating this tangible, almost spiritual connection between generations of country greatness.
As the evening unfolded in all its glory, I found myself reflecting on how the Grand Ole Opry has remained not just relevant but absolutely essential to country music for an entire century—a remarkable testament to its ability to honor sacred traditions while embracing fresh, authentic voices like Wilson who will undoubtedly carry its precious legacy forward for the next 100 years.