What Is the Grand Ole Opry and Why Is It So Iconic?

Even if you don’t tout yourself as a country fan, you likely know the Grand Ole Opry. Maybe you don’t know the specifics, but you know that name demands a certain reverence. But, why is it so revered? What exactly is the Grand Ole Opry and why is it so iconic? Why is success in country music synonymous with playing that stage? If you’ve ever found yourself asking those questions, find the answers, below.

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History of the Grand Ole Opry

We will start our explanation in the natural place for an institution that’s been around for 100 years: a history lesson. Before The Grand Ole Opry found the permanent home it enjoys now, it was broadcast into the homes of country fans everywhere via a WSM radio show.

The recognized start date for the Grand Ole Opry is November 28, 1925, when a WSM Barn Dance featuring fiddle player, Jimmy Thompson, won the hearts of listeners. It was later renamed to the Grand Ole Opry, which is a banner that has stuck around for a century now.

The first home of the Grand Ole Opry was the Ryman Auditorium. Many of the Opry’s name-making moments happened at “The Mother Church,” as it’s affectionally nicknamed. In the mid-’70s, the show made the move to the Opry House, the first venue dedicated specifically to the institution. It has lived there ever since.

Thanks to this storied tradition, country artists have patiently waited for their turn to become members. Find out how they earn that honor, below.

Becoming a Member

Becoming an Opry Member is one of–if not the–greatest accomplishment any country artist can hope to achieve in their career. It’s a compliment from their peers, lauding them as one of the greats of the genre. Examples of Opry members include Carrie Underwood, Garth Brooks, Alan Jackson, and Dolly Parton. Needless to say, any country artist would jump at the chance to be a part of that crowd.

Nowadays, an artist must be invited by an already established member in order to join these ranks. There has been many a tear-filled performance on the Opry stage, thanks to artists being ambushed by their Opry invitation. Revisit Luke Combs’ invitation, below.

On top of joining a long list of country greats–with written, finite proof–the honor is doubled by earning an invitation from a musical hero or a cherished friend in the industry.

(Photo by Jason Davis/Getty Images)