The Grand Ole Opry is widely regarded as the most prestigious stage in country music. For musicians, receiving an invitation to perform at this revered venue, and eventually becoming an official member, is considered a significant milestone in their career.
However, not all country stars have a completely positive relationship with the Opry throughout their entire career. Throughout the years, several performers have been requested to leave the stage for various reasons, either for breaking the venue's unwritten rules of behavior or for not meeting the official requirements for membership.
At a special event called Opry Goes Dolly, held at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville to honor Dolly Parton's 78th birthday in 2024, singer Elle King caused controversy. She appeared on stage visibly intoxicated and openly admitted to being heavily under the influence. During her performance, she engaged in playful arguments with members of the audience and even forgot the lyrics to Dolly Parton's song "Marry Me." This behavior sparked outrage among the attendees.
The location expressed regret to individuals who were upset by King's choice of words. However, numerous supporters of the Opry on social media believed that King should be the one to offer an apology 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 numerous occasions where artists were banned from performing at the Opry. However, the question arises whether King's actions truly justify such a severe measure. By examining instances from the venue's early years, specifically those occurring in 1973 or before, it becomes clear that it is indeed a possibility.
Johnny Cash was prohibited from performing at the Opry following a memorable 1973 concert in which he violently destroyed stage lights using a microphone stand. The incident was largely influenced by his consumption of alcohol. Hank Williams, who is considered one of the Opry's most renowned banned artists, lost his membership due to his frequent intoxication and lack of dependability. Additionally, Jerry Lee Lewis was expelled from the Opry stage for various transgressions, including the use of profanity during a live broadcast.
However, it is important to note that there is only one case 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 absence from the Opry stage, it will not greatly impact her future ability to perform at the Grand Ole Opry.
Continue reading to explore the celebrities who have been prohibited from performing on the Opry stage due to their actions and conduct!
6 Celebrities Forbidden from Performing at the Grand Ole Opry (and the Reasons for Their Exclusion)
Image Credit: Carena Liptak
Here are 26 country music artists who are not members of the Grand Ole Opry, and you might be surprised to learn that. The gallery credit goes
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