Country music fans are in for a historic night as the Grand Ole Opry marks its 100th anniversary with a three-hour live event, Opry 100: A Live Celebration. Hosted by Blake Shelton, this once-in-a-lifetime broadcast is set to air on NBC and Peacock on Wednesday, March 19, from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. ET. Featuring performances from country legends, rising stars, and even surprising crossover artists, the event promises to honor the Opry’s legacy while showcasing the genre’s bright future.
A Century of Country Music Excellence
The Grand Ole Opry began as a humble radio show in 1925, founded by George D. Hay to spotlight American folk and country music. Over the decades, it evolved into a live stage show that became synonymous with Nashville’s cultural identity. From its early days at the Ryman Auditorium to its current home at the Opry House, the Opry has been a cornerstone of country music, launching the careers of legends like Dolly Parton, Johnny Cash, and Loretta Lynn.
As Blake Shelton put it, “The Grand Ole Opry has been connecting the country music family for 100 years. Becoming a member of the Opry is one of the highlights of my life and career.”
The Lineup: A Blend of Legends and Rising Stars
The Opry 100 celebration boasts an incredible lineup of performers spanning generations and genres. Here’s what fans can look forward to:
Tributes to Country Icons
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Reba McEntire will pay homage to Patsy Cline and Loretta Lynn.
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Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood will honor George Jones and Tammy Wynette.
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Carrie Underwood will perform a tribute to Randy Travis.
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Keith Urban will salute Crystal Gayle with her classic hit “Don’t It Make My Brown Eyes Blue.”
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Kelsea Ballerini will celebrate Barbara Mandrell.
Special Collaborations
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Jelly Roll and Ashley McBryde will honor Johnny Cash and June Carter.
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Lainey Wilson and Marty Stuart will perform “Lost Highway” in tribute to Hank Williams Sr.
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Alison Krauss & Union Station will deliver a bluegrass segment alongside Brad Paisley, including their duet “Whiskey Lullaby.”
Unexpected Performances
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Post Malone will surprise fans with his rendition of Travis Tritt’s “T-R-O-U-B-L-E,” bringing his unique style to the country stage.
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The War and Treaty will lead a gospel tribute featuring Amy Grant.
What Makes This Event Special?
Unlike awards shows that often limit performances due to time constraints, Opry 100 focuses heavily on music. With over 20 performances planned across three hours, viewers can expect a deep dive into country music’s rich history.
Producers Baz Halpin, Mark Bracco, and Linda Gierahn emphasized that this isn’t just for country fans—it’s for anyone who loves music. “So many songs in this show are part of the American Songbook,” said Bracco. “Even if you don’t consider yourself a country fan, you’ll know these songs and love them.”
Live and Pre-Recorded Segments
The event will feature both live performances from the Opry House and pre-recorded segments from the Ryman Auditorium. This dual approach not only honors the Opry’s original home but also allows smoother transitions between performances.
The producers have incorporated cutting-edge visuals into the live segments at the Opry House. Large screens will display custom content for each song, creating unique atmospheres for every performance—from intimate ballads to high-energy anthems.
Heartfelt Tributes and Emotional Moments
One particularly moving moment will come from Vince Gill’s performance of “Go Rest High on That Mountain,” a song that has become synonymous with remembrance. Gill’s rendition is expected to be one of the evening’s highlights as it honors countless artists who have graced the Opry stage over the past century.
Eric Church will also deliver an emotional performance of one of his original songs tied closely to his relationship with the Opry. According to Bracco, Church’s choice reflects his personal connection to the venue and its legacy.
Behind-the-Scenes Insights
Silent House Productions—the team behind Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour—is collaborating with the Opry on this monumental event. Executive producer Linda Gierahn shared how special it is for her personally: “I went to school in Nashville as a music business major, so working on this project feels like coming full circle.”
Gierahn added that there’s a deep sense of love and respect woven into every aspect of the show—not just for the artists but also for those behind the scenes who have kept the Opry alive for 100 years.
How to Watch
Tune in live on NBC or stream on Peacock starting at 8 p.m. ET/7 p.m. CT on March 19. For those lucky enough to attend in person, tickets are still available—but they’re selling fast!
Why You Shouldn’t Miss It
Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to country music, Opry 100: A Live Celebration offers something for everyone. With its mix of tributes, collaborations, original performances, and heartfelt moments, this event is more than just a concert—it’s a celebration of American music history.
So grab your cowboy hat and get ready for an unforgettable night honoring one of Nashville’s most cherished institutions!
