The Grand Ole Opry is widely considered as the most respected stage in country music. For artists, receiving an invitation to perform or becoming an official member is a significant milestone in their career.
Nevertheless, not all country music stars have a completely positive and harmonious connection with the Opry throughout their entire professional journey. Throughout the years, there have been instances where several artists have been requested to leave the stage due to various reasons. These reasons could include either breaching the venue's unwritten code of conduct or not meeting the official membership requirements set by the Opry.
At a tribute show called Opry Goes Dolly held at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, performer Elle King caused controversy when she appeared on stage visibly intoxicated. She openly admitted to being heavily intoxicated and engaged in confrontational exchanges with members of the audience. Additionally, she forgot the lyrics to Dolly Parton's song "Marry Me." This incident took place during a celebration of Dolly Parton's 78th birthday in 2024.
The place where the event took place expressed regret to the individuals who were upset by King's choice of words. However, numerous supporters of the Opry voiced their opinion on social media, stating that King should be the one to apologize and that her actions were severe enough to justify being barred from performing on the Grand Ole Opry stage.
Throughout the years, there have been multiple cases where artists were prohibited from performing at the Opry. However, is King's conduct truly deserving of such a drastic measure? If we consider certain incidents that occurred in the venue's early years, specifically in 1973 or earlier, the clear response is that it is indeed possible.
The Opry decided to ban Johnny Cash after a memorable concert in 1973, during which he destroyed stage lights using a microphone stand. Alcohol played a significant role in causing this incident. Hank Williams, one of the most well-known artists banned from the Opry, lost his membership due to his excessive drinking and lack of dependability. Another artist, Jerry Lee Lewis, was also expelled from the Opry stage for various reasons, including using explicit language live on air.
However, it is important to note that there is only one singer who has received a complete and permanent ban from the Opry. The decision to maintain this ban forever was not made by the venue itself. Therefore, it is probable that even if King's actions justify a temporary absence from the Opry stage, it is unlikely to have a lasting impact on her ability to perform at the Grand Ole Opry.
Continue reading to explore the celebrities who have been prohibited from performing on the Opry stage, and discover the specific actions that led to their expulsion!
6 Celebrities Who Were Forbidden from Performing at the Grand Ole Opry (and the Reasons Behind their Exclusion)
Image Source: Carena Liptak
Here is a collection of 26 country stars who surprisingly have not yet become members of the Grand Ole Opry. This gallery is credited to Billy Dukes
Additional content from Taste of Country:
Details
Stay connected with us