The Grand Ole Opry is widely considered as the most respected platform in country music. Being invited to perform at this prestigious venue, and eventually becoming an official member, is often seen as a significant milestone in an artist's career.
However, not all country artists have a completely positive and long-lasting connection with the Opry. Throughout the years, several performers have been requested to stop performing at the venue due to various reasons. These reasons include breaking the venue's unwritten rules of behavior or not meeting the official requirements for membership.
At the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, a tribute show titled Opry Goes Dolly was held 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 confrontational exchanges with the audience, and even forgot the lyrics to Parton's song "Marry Me."
The location expressed regret to individuals who were upset by King's choice of words. However, numerous fans of the Opry argued on social media that King herself should issue an apology and that her actions were severe enough to justify being banned from performing on the Grand Ole Opry stage.
Throughout the years, the Opry has had multiple occasions where artists have been banned. However, the question arises whether King's actions truly justify such a drastic measure. By examining some instances from the early years of the venue, specifically those occurring in 1973 or before, it becomes evident that it is indeed possible.
In 1973, Johnny Cash was prohibited from performing at the Opry due to an intense show where he destroyed stage lights using a microphone stand. Alcohol played a significant role in this incident. Another well-known artist, Hank Williams, had his membership revoked at the Opry because of his excessive drinking and lack of dependability. Jerry Lee Lewis was also removed from the Opry stage for various reasons, including the use of an explicit word during a live broadcast.
However, it is important to note that there is only one instance of a singer being permanently 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 justify a temporary suspension from performing on the Opry stage, it will not have lasting consequences 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, along with the actions that led to their expulsion.
6 Celebrities Who Were Forbidden from Performing at the Grand Ole Opry (and the Reasons Behind Their Exclusion)
Credit for Gallery: Carena Liptak
Here are 26 country stars who surprisingly haven't become members of the Grand Ole Opry. Gallery credit goes to Billy Dukes.
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