The Grand Ole Opry is widely regarded as the most esteemed platform in country music. For artists, receiving an invitation to perform at this revered venue, and eventually becoming an official member, is a significant milestone in their careers.
Nevertheless, there are country music artists who do not have a completely positive association with the Opry throughout their entire career. Throughout the years, several performers have been removed from the stage for various reasons. These reasons may include not adhering to the unwritten code of conduct expected at the venue or not meeting the official requirements for membership.
At a special event called Opry Goes Dolly held at Nashville's Ryman Auditorium to honor Dolly Parton on her 78th birthday in 2024, there was a controversial incident involving performer Elle King. Elle King appeared on stage visibly intoxicated and openly admitted to being heavily drunk. She engaged in confrontational exchanges with the audience and even forgot the lyrics to Dolly Parton's song "Marry Me." This behavior sparked outrage among the attendees.
The establishment expressed regret to the individuals who were upset by King's choice of words. However, numerous supporters of the Opry expressed on social media that they believed King should be the one to apologize, and some even suggested that her actions were severe enough to justify her being banned from performing on the Grand Ole Opry stage.
Throughout the years, there have been numerous cases where artists were banned from performing at the Opry. However, is King's behavior truly deserving of such a drastic measure? If we examine certain incidents that occurred in the venue's earlier years, specifically in 1973 or before, it becomes evident that it is a possibility.
In 1973, Johnny Cash was prohibited from performing at the Opry due to a memorable incident during his show. He caused a commotion by destroying stage lights with a microphone stand, and alcohol played a significant role in this episode. Another well-known artist, Hank Williams, also faced a ban from the Opry due to his excessive drinking and untrustworthiness. Similarly, Jerry Lee Lewis was expelled from the Opry stage for various reasons, including using inappropriate language on live television.
However, it is important to note that there is only one singer who has been completely and permanently banned from the Opry, and this decision was not made by the venue. Therefore, it is probable that even if King's actions require her to take a break from performing on the Opry stage, it will not significantly impact her future ability to play at the Grand Ole Opry.
Continue reading to explore the individuals in the entertainment industry who have been prohibited from performing on the Opry stage due to their misconduct and the actions that led to their removal.
6 Celebrities Excluded from the Grand Ole Opry (and the Reasons for Their Removal)
Source of Images: Carena Liptak
26 Country Artists Who Are Not Members of the Grand Ole Opry, and It's Hard to Believe
Photo Credit: Billy Dukes
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