The Grand Ole Opry is widely considered to be the most respected stage in country music. For artists, receiving an invitation to perform at this prestigious venue is a significant milestone in their career. It is also a great honor to become an official member of the Grand Ole Opry.
Nevertheless, not all country music stars have a completely positive and harmonious connection with the Opry for the entirety of their careers. Throughout the years, there have been instances where various performers have been requested to leave the stage due to different reasons. These reasons could include either disregarding the venue's unwritten rules of behavior or not meeting the official requirements for membership.
At the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, there was a special tribute show called Opry Goes Dolly to celebrate Dolly Parton's 78th birthday in 2024. However, during the show, performer Elle King caused anger and shock by appearing on stage visibly intoxicated. She openly admitted to the audience that she was extremely drunk and engaged in confrontational exchanges with the concert-goers. Additionally, she even forgot the lyrics to Dolly Parton's song "Marry Me."
The establishment expressed regret to individuals who were upset by King's choice of words. However, numerous fans of the Opry argued on social media that King should personally apologize and that her actions justified her being prohibited from performing on the Grand Ole Opry stage.
Throughout the years, there have been multiple cases of artists being banned from performing at the Opry. However, is King's conduct truly deserving of such a drastic measure? If we examine a few incidents that occurred in the venue's early history, all of which took place in 1973 or before, the answer is that it is indeed possible.
Following a highly energetic performance in 1973, Johnny Cash found himself barred from performing at the Opry due to his destructive act of smashing stage lights with a microphone stand. Alcohol played a significant role in the incident. Hank Williams, a well-known artist, also faced a ban from the Opry due to his consistent drunkenness and unreliable behavior. Similarly, Jerry Lee Lewis was removed from the Opry stage for various reasons, including his use of profanity live on air.
However, it is important to note that there is only one instance of a singer being permanently banned from the Opry, and this decision was not made by the venue itself. Therefore, it is probable that even if King's actions justify a temporary suspension from performing on the Opry stage, it is unlikely to have any lasting impact on her ability to play at the Grand Ole Opry.
Continue reading to explore the celebrities who have been prohibited from performing on the Opry stage, along with the actions that led to their expulsion.
6 Celebrities Who Were Forbidden from Performing at the Grand Ole Opry (and the Reasons Behind Their Banishment)
Photo Credit: Carena Liptak
Here are 26 country stars who surprisingly haven't become members of the Grand Ole Opry. Gallery credit goes to Billy Dukes.
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