The Grand Ole Opry is widely considered as the most prestigious stage in country music. For artists, receiving an invitation to perform at this legendary venue, and eventually becoming an official member, is often seen as a significant highlight in their career.
Nevertheless, it is not uncommon for country music artists to experience difficulties in their relationship with the Opry over the course of their careers. Throughout the years, several performers have been requested to step down from the stage for various reasons. These reasons can range from breaking the venue's unwritten rules of behavior to not meeting the official requirements for membership.
At a tribute show called Opry Goes Dolly, which took place at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville to celebrate Dolly Parton's 78th birthday in 2024, there was a controversial incident involving performer Elle King. She caused outrage as she appeared on stage visibly intoxicated, openly admitting that she was very drunk. She engaged in confrontational exchanges with the audience and even forgot the lyrics to Dolly Parton's song "Marry Me."
The venue expressed regret for any individuals who were upset by King's choice of words. However, numerous fans of the Opry took to social media to assert that King should be the one to apologize and that her actions were severe enough to justify being banned from performing on the Grand Ole Opry stage.
Throughout the years, there have been multiple cases where artists were forbidden to perform at the Opry. However, the question arises of whether King's actions truly justify such a drastic measure. By examining a few instances from the early years of the venue, all occurring in 1973 or before, it becomes apparent that it is indeed a possibility.
Johnny Cash was prohibited from performing at the Opry after a highly energetic show in 1973, during which he destructively smashed stage lights using a microphone stand. Alcohol played a significant role in this incident. Hank Williams, who is widely recognized as the most renowned artist to be banned from the Opry, lost his membership due to his consistent inebriation and lack of reliability. Furthermore, Jerry Lee Lewis was removed from the Opry stage for various reasons, one of which included him using 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 result in a temporary suspension from performing on the Opry stage, it is unlikely to have a 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 due to their inappropriate conduct!
6 Celebrities Excluded from the Grand Ole Opry (and the Reasons Behind Their Removal)
Image Credit: Carena Liptak
26 Country music artists who are not members of the Grand Ole Opry, which may come as a surprise. (Gallery credit to Billy Dukes)
Additional content from Taste of Country
Details
Stay connected with us