The Grand Ole Opry is widely considered as the most prestigious stage in country music. For artists, receiving an invitation to perform at this revered venue, and eventually earning official membership, is a significant milestone in their career.
Nevertheless, it is worth noting that not all country music stars have a consistently positive association with the Opry throughout their entire professional journey. Throughout the years, various artists have been requested to step down from performing on the Opry stage due to different reasons. These reasons may include breaching the venue's unwritten code of conduct or not meeting the official criteria for Opry membership.
At the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, there was a tribute show called Opry Goes Dolly to celebrate Dolly Parton's 78th birthday in 2024. However, one of the performers, Elle King, caused controversy when she appeared on stage clearly intoxicated. She openly admitted to being heavily intoxicated, engaged in slightly confrontational conversations with the audience, and even forgot the lyrics to Dolly Parton's song "Marry Me."
The establishment expressed regret to those who were upset by King's words. However, numerous individuals on social media, who are fans of the Opry, believed that King should be the one to 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 where artists were banned from performing at the Opry. However, the question arises whether King's actions justify such a drastic measure. By examining past incidents that occurred in 1973 or before, it becomes evident that it is indeed a possibility.
Johnny Cash was removed from the Opry after a memorable performance in 1973, where he destroyed stage lights using a microphone stand. Alcohol played a significant role in this incident. Hank Williams, who is one of the most well-known artists banned from the Opry, lost his membership due to his excessive drinking and lack of reliability. In addition to various other offenses, Jerry Lee Lewis was also expelled from the Opry stage for using profanity during a live broadcast.
However, it is important to note that there is only one instance of a singer being completely and permanently banned from the Opry. The decision to impose this ban did not come from the venue itself. Therefore, even if King's actions justify a temporary absence from the Opry stage, it is unlikely that this incident will 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, along with the actions that led to their expulsion.
6 Celebrities Forbidden from Performing at the Grand Ole Opry (and the Reasons for Their Exclusion)
Image Credit: Carena Liptak
Here are 26 country stars who are not members of the Grand Ole Opry, and it might surprise you. The credit for the gallery goes to Billy
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