The Grand Ole Opry is widely considered to be the most esteemed stage in country music. For artists, receiving an invitation to perform at this prestigious venue is a significant milestone in their career. Likewise, becoming an official member of the Opry is a highly cherished achievement.
Nevertheless, not all country music stars have a consistently positive connection with the Opry throughout their entire career. Throughout the years, several artists have been requested to leave the stage for various reasons. These reasons could include not adhering to the venue's unwritten code of conduct or not meeting the official membership expectations.
At the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, a tribute show called Opry Goes Dolly was organized to celebrate Dolly Parton's 78th birthday in 2024. However, one of the performers, Elle King, caused controversy during the event. She appeared on stage visibly intoxicated, openly admitting that she was heavily drunk. She 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 argued that King should be the one to offer an apology, and some even believed that her actions were severe enough to justify being banned from performing on the Grand Ole Opry stage.
Over the years, the Opry has banned multiple artists, but is King's behavior truly deserving of such a drastic measure? By examining some instances from the venue's past, specifically from 1973 or earlier, it becomes evident that the answer is possibly yes.
After an intense performance in 1973, Johnny Cash was prohibited from performing at the Opry because he destroyed stage lights using a microphone stand. Alcohol played a significant role in this incident. Hank Williams, who is widely known as the most famous banned artist from the Opry, lost his membership due to his excessive drinking and unreliable behavior. Additionally, Jerry Lee Lewis was removed from the Opry stage for various reasons, including swearing live on air.
However, it is important to note that there is only one instance of a singer being permanently banned from the Opry, and this decision was not made by the venue itself. Therefore, it is likely that even if King's actions result in 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 for a thorough exploration of the celebrities who have been prohibited from performing on the Opry stage, along with the actions or conduct that led to their removal.
6 Celebrities Forbidden from the Grand Ole Opry (and the Reasons for Their Exclusion)
Image Credit: Carena Liptak
These are 26 country music stars who are not currently members of the Grand Ole Opry. Credit for the gallery goes to Billy Dukes.
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