The Grand Ole Opry is widely considered as the most prestigious stage in country music. When artists receive their initial invitation to perform at this revered venue, and later, when they become official members, it is regarded as one of the most significant milestones in their career.
However, not all country stars have a completely positive relationship with the Opry for their entire career. Throughout the years, several performers have been requested to leave the stage for various reasons. This could be due to breaking the venue's unwritten rules of behavior or not meeting the official requirements for membership.
At a tribute show called Opry Goes Dolly, held at Nashville's Ryman Auditorium to celebrate Dolly Parton's 78th birthday in 2024, performer Elle King caused controversy by appearing on stage visibly intoxicated. She openly admitted to being drunk, engaged in slightly confrontational exchanges with the audience, and even forgot the lyrics to Parton's song "Marry Me."
The establishment expressed regret to those 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 apologize, and some even felt that her actions were severe enough to be banned from performing on the Grand Ole Opry stage.
Throughout the years, there have been multiple occasions where artists were banned from performing at the Opry. However, is King's actions truly deserving of such a drastic measure? When examining a few instances from the venue's early history, all occurring before 1973, it becomes evident that it is indeed a possibility.
In 1973, Johnny Cash was prohibited from performing at the Opry due to his disruptive behavior during a concert. He caused damage to stage lights by using a microphone stand and alcohol played a significant role in this incident. Hank Williams, a well-known artist, also faced a ban from the Opry due to his excessive drinking and lack of dependability. Another artist, Jerry Lee Lewis, was removed from the Opry stage for various reasons, including using explicit language on live air.
However, it is important to note that there is only one instance of a singer being permanently and completely banned from the Opry, and it was not the decision of the venue to impose this ban indefinitely. Therefore, it is probable that even if King's actions warrant a temporary removal from the Opry stage, it is unlikely to have any 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 and the actions that led to their removal!
6 Celebrities Forbidden from Performing at the Grand Ole Opry (and the Reasons behind Their Exclusion)
Photo Credit: Carena Liptak
26 Country musicians who are not members of the prestigious Grand Ole Opry, surprising fans. Gallery credit given to Billy Dukes.
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