The Grand Ole Opry is widely considered to be the most prestigious stage in country music. For artists, receiving an invitation to perform at this iconic venue is a monumental milestone in their career. It holds immense significance when they eventually become official members of the Opry.
However, not all country stars have a consistently positive relationship with the Opry throughout their entire career. Throughout the years, there have been instances where performers have been requested to leave the stage due to various reasons. These reasons can range from breaking the venue's unwritten rules of conduct to not meeting the official membership expectations.
At Nashville's Ryman Auditorium, there was a tribute show called Opry Goes Dolly to celebrate Dolly Parton's 78th birthday in 2024. However, there was a controversial incident during the show when performer Elle King appeared on stage visibly intoxicated. She openly admitted to the audience that she was extremely drunk and engaged in slightly confrontational exchanges with some of the concert attendees. Additionally, she forgot the lyrics to Dolly Parton's song "Marry Me." This behavior caused a lot of outrage among the audience.
The establishment expressed their apologies to those who were upset by the language used by King. However, numerous supporters of the Opry voiced their belief on social media that King herself should issue an apology, and some even suggested that her actions were severe enough to merit a ban from performing on the Grand Ole Opry stage.
Throughout the years, the Opry has banned numerous artists, but is King's conduct truly deserving of such a drastic measure? Well, when examining a few instances from the venue's earlier years, specifically from 1973 or before, it becomes evident that it might indeed be justified.
Johnny Cash was prohibited from performing at the Opry due to a memorable show in 1973. During this performance, he destroyed stage lights using a microphone stand, and alcohol played a significant role in this incident. Hank Williams, who is widely known as the Opry's most famous banned artist, lost his membership due to his consistent drunkenness and unreliability. Additionally, Jerry Lee Lewis was removed from the Opry stage for various transgressions, including the use of profanity live on air.
However, it is important to note that there is only a single 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 a lasting impact on her future ability to play at the Grand Ole Opry.
Continue reading to explore the celebrities who have been prohibited from performing on the Opry stage, and the actions that led to their removal!
6 Celebrities Not Allowed to Perform at the Grand Ole Opry (and Reasons for Their Exclusion)
Photo Credit: Carena Liptak
These 26 country stars will surprise you as they are not members of the Grand Ole Opry. Credit for the gallery goes to Billy Dukes.
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