Lorrie Morgan Calls Out Blake Shelton for Not Paying His Grand Ole Opry Dues
Over the last few years, a major problem at the Grand Ole Opry has been that many of its newest members are not paying their proper dues to the institution. When you agree to take on one of the solemn positions as a Grand Ole Opry member, you promise to make a specific number of appearances to help support the cause. There’s no shortage of individuals who are willing to play the Opry, but the big names of the day are the ones that help the Opry survive. Recently however, it is many of those big-named artists and the Opry’s newest members who are the most delinquent in their obligations.
Blake Shelton has been one of the most notorious ones.
Lorrie Morgan, who’s getting ready to release a new album called Letting You Go … Slow on February 12th, stopped by Taste of Country Nights late last week to talk about her new album, and her love and devotion to the Grand Ole Opry. Morgan became an Opry member in June of 1984, and insists she always tries to meet her performances obligations, playing as many as two performances a month. Lorrie played the Opry 16 times in 2015, putting her 15th on the list of most appearances by members.
“They send out a letter that says you know, ‘We are kind of demanding that you must be here so many times a year to continue your membership.’ Because it’s just not fair,” Lorrie Morgan explains. “People want to say, ‘Hey I’m a member of the Opry,’ and not want to come back. The Opry takes dedication and it takes love. It takes love.”
However all the love Blake Shelton could give to the Opry in 2015 was three appearances—well short of what is believed to be the required amount of 10. Blake’s history with the Opry is even worse since becoming a member in 2010. The year he was inducted, Blake Shelton made no other appearances. He also made zero appearances in 2012. And in 2013 and 2014, Blake Shelton could only eek out two appearances. By any count, Blake is in arrears to the Opry in a major way.
“He’s gonna get a spanking,” Lorrie Morgan says. “When I see him, it’s over for Blake. Blake, you better look out buddy.”
This has to be considered partly tongue-in-cheek, but Lorrie also seems sincerely disappointed that so many of today’s stars are not taking their Opry duties seriously.
Making the situation even more troubling, Blake Shelton is one of the big stars in the Grand Ole Opry’s upcoming movie, American Saturday Night: Live From The Grand Ole Opry. The other major stars are Darius Rucker and Brad Paisley; two more stars who have trouble paying their dues.
So who does play the Opry these day? Aside from Mike Snider, the top 10 performers are all over 69-years-old, and the average age of the top 10 performers is 74-years-old.
- Connie Smith- Appearances: 88 / Age: 74
- Mike Snider- Appearances: 88 / Age: 54
- Jeannie Seely- Appearances: 84 / Age: 75
- Larry Gatlin- Appearances: 76 / Age: 67
- Bill Anderson- Appearances: 72 / Age: 78
- Riders In The Sky- Appearances: 70 / Age: (Leader Doug Green) 69
- The Whites- Appearances: 63 / Age: (Leader Buck White) 85
- John Conlee- Appearances: 55 / Age: 69
- Bobby Osborne- Appearances: 54 / Age: 84
- Jesse McReynolds- Appearances: 41 / Age: 85
Meanwhile virtually none of the major country stars of today meet their obligations. The only top-tier current country star to play the appointed 10 appearances in 2015 was Carrie Underwood.
But is 10 appearances the true required number of performances to keep your Opry membership active, or is it much higher than that? In her recent interview, Lorrie Morgan alluded that the real number is actually 24, and that the Opry recently brought back the older, higher number from years back since so few were fulfilling their obligations. That would mean members would be required to play an average of twice a month. At the moment, fill-ins and the top 10 performers fulfill the majority of the Opry’s performance slots.
If the number has been raised (and it’s hard to know because of the secretive nature of the Opry), that may explain why the Grand Ole Opry hasn’t inducted a new member in quite a while. The last inductee was Little Big Town in October of 2014. If the new 24 performance number is true, it might also mean the Opry may bring back a different system of counting performances, where weekend performances count as two or three performances against your dues.
Either way, the Opry continues to have an attendance problem, and it’s country music’s biggest names at the heart of it.
February 1, 2016 @ 8:31 am
It seems like a high number for a hard touring act. wonder how much the dues are?
September 21, 2020 @ 8:58 am
Reply to lorries morgan remarks about Blake Shelton it seems I’ve heard that remark somewhere else the only thing I can say is maybe he’s so good of a singer he don’t need the Oprys approval.and he certainly don’t need yours so go on back and listen to your only hit song and let Blake take care of himself.but I will give you this you’re really pretty in that red dress.
November 10, 2020 @ 6:34 am
Cmon—- rules and traditions aren’t supposed to change. And the traditions of the Opry def shouldn’t change. No one is that good. Being good is not what it’s about. Every member realizes what an honor it is to be part of the Opry—-and Lori—-well she had several hits not just one….and SHE IS part of Country Royalty regardless of what anyone thinks.
She could sing the telephone book in an old Gunne Sak and it would be a hit. This is what’s wrong with our country—-no one wants to remember traditions and how they got where they got. Don’t slow down Lori and keep reminding them what real country is.
January 9, 2021 @ 2:54 pm
I see you know nothing about the grand ole Opry. The Opry is a place to play when your career is over.But it’s not just Blake there is Reba, Clint Black, and many more. Back in the 60’s about 15 artist was let go for not playing there 10 shows. Ray Price, Kitty Wells, were 2 of the big names at the time.
February 13, 2022 @ 1:18 pm
And you don’t know what you’re talking about. The Opry has new acts all the time. It’s is not a place to go when your career is over!
November 22, 2024 @ 1:43 pm
Sorry, not true. We saw Keith Urban there along with Mark Wills…..hardly two has-beens.
April 28, 2022 @ 4:17 am
That’s the problem with America today. Forget about history forget about tradition. That’s exactly why country music is all but dead. Country artist today couldn’t write a song with a melody if their life depended on it!. “Merle Haggard”
August 29, 2022 @ 5:54 pm
When I lived and played in Nashville, all the musicians I knew called her “Whorey Morgan ” for sleeping her way up the ladder. Who cares if these people play the Opry. Their “country” music sucks.
August 30, 2022 @ 8:56 pm
I think you need are a very rude person.Those without sin can cast the first stone.
January 1, 2024 @ 7:57 pm
I am a Christian minister and do no wrong.
January 1, 2024 @ 6:41 pm
Well, aren’t you a special piece of shit…
December 12, 2022 @ 9:24 pm
Yes you tell him he needs to start doing what needs to be done or he’s out! Blake Shelton shame on you!!
January 27, 2023 @ 7:17 pm
It’s not a question of getting approval or not, when you give your word you should keep it.
January 15, 2024 @ 10:35 am
Blake Shelton is probably drinking too much and therefore falls short on his responsibilities. He also thinks he’s too hot to be held to standards.
January 22, 2025 @ 3:09 pm
Blake Shelton is a disgrace to real Country Music.
November 8, 2020 @ 9:50 pm
Oh man Megan
Just you tell him ……Blake
March 4, 2021 @ 5:38 pm
They told you in the article.
February 16, 2022 @ 4:11 pm
I don’t think it’s her business to call anyone out.She’s not that great of a singer anyway.Work on your
Self Lorrie Morgan
April 27, 2022 @ 1:15 pm
Just giving appearances to the Opry .
They get the money….
To keep it going….
No Names. No Gains.
December 23, 2024 @ 11:23 am
The dues, are not money. It’s performing on the Grand Old Opry. You promise to perform so many times to be a member. If they don’t have enough decency to keep their agreement, take them off the Opry list. Shame on them !!! 😕
February 1, 2016 @ 8:35 am
That’s my girl! Definitely one of the greatest Country Music ladies ever! George sure raised her right!
“Wair Paint” is one of the greatest albums by a female artist, I think. “If You Came Back From Heaven” is such a great song…
February 1, 2016 @ 9:07 am
She is a fantastic artist and what a fascinating life she’s lived.
February 1, 2016 @ 3:12 pm
Yes, with Keith Whitley it was ”Till Death Do Us Part”.
February 1, 2016 @ 7:26 pm
If George raised her right she would treat people with respect instead of believing that her presence is payment for restaurant bills. I was a waiter and a struggling musician and my first job here she stiffed me and left without tipping. just walked out the door. I have never had respect for her and the way she treats others. I was just a kid trying to make ends and she walked right out on her bill. A father does not raise a daughter right to treat anyone like that. Her Father was a great. Her calling anyone out about paying a due or bill is highly hypocritical.
February 2, 2016 @ 12:10 am
Amen!! I agree! For whatever reason, she thinks very highly of herself. I have NEVER seen what the big deal over her has ever been. But, I know she sure STILL hangs on the coat tail of poor Keith Whitley…. Seen it for myself. DISGUSTING!! LET THE MAN R.I.P. You done enough… he’s dead!! Go make your own money!!!!!!!!!
February 3, 2016 @ 9:54 am
I hate to pile on here, but of all the country music artists, Lorrie Morgan and T.G. Shepherd are my two least favorite. Not because of their music, but their personality. In the words of my grandmother “I’d like to buy them for what they’re worth and sell ’em for what they think they’re worth”.
December 23, 2024 @ 11:24 am
Was it Cracker Barrel 🤔
February 1, 2016 @ 8:38 am
24 appearances is too many. For BS especially. Maybe that’s why the Opry keeps him in–they prefer fewer performances from him. 😛
Maybe they need a version of a Cap and Trade system. It would be cool if an artist like BS could assign some of his appearances to someone who really needs the exposure. Maybe that could count for half an appearance. Or something.
February 1, 2016 @ 10:26 am
First off, I’m not sure we know what the number is. Maybe it’s only 10. If it’s 24, then my guess is performers get extra credit for performing on the weekends, meaning they get two or three credits. If it’s too many, then how does Carrie Underwood keep pulling it off, even in years when she has a baby? If you can’t meet your obligations, that’s perfectly fine. Then don’t become a member. That’s what George Strait did. Even 24 performances wouldn’t be too much for a touring artist of they lived in Nashville, and cared. Mainstream tours these days only span over weekends anyway.
February 2, 2016 @ 3:08 pm
Plus a performance at the Opry is what, usually 2-3 songs? Then the next artist comes out from what I remember. It isn’t like they have to put on a full show.
August 13, 2022 @ 10:24 pm
In all fairness, there has to be a way to take into consideration all things that go into being available to play the Opry such as where you live and how busy your entertainment schedule is. I would love nothing more than to be able to count on seeing a top country performer when attending the Opry but unless a performer lives in or near Nashville, that’s probably difficult. Maybe the required appearances should be something more realistic and everyone would make an effort to it. Three times a year seems realistic as a mandatory number to keep your membership
February 1, 2016 @ 8:42 am
I’m glad they aren’t paying their dues. They don’t DESERVE to pay ther dues!
December 23, 2024 @ 11:26 am
Was it Cracker Barrel 🤔
February 1, 2016 @ 8:50 am
Just curious, do artists get paid to perform at The Opry?
February 1, 2016 @ 9:43 am
Yes but it’s like $150 or something. Union scale. At least for the players.
December 10, 2020 @ 4:23 pm
What are you worried about Blake Shelton for he’s anything but country,all he’s good for is attracting money. Opry I’m sad to say is running out of true country music. Like I said country died in late eighties. We did have Keith Whitley and and randy Travis, however you no story there. We do have George strait left tho. No one bleeds country music more than me, but the new generation are the future,and for me that’s still hard to accept. Look at Vince Gil loves bluegrass but new he’d starve to death depending on it. However success has allowed him now too play music he loves best. Yes bluegrass is fast becoming something else as well.I was blessed in the time both were at their peaks. There was a song written once—-time changes everything—. However I spend a lot of time on my I pad finding songs I never heard of ,and to me it’s like their new hits, sometimes. This is my grand old opry. Gil
November 15, 2022 @ 10:55 am
Isn’t she replacing the headstone of Keith.. I think I remember I know I remember seeing a picture of his new headstone and she’s NOT being buried there next to him. Forgive me if I’m wrong but I will check into this again. I love Keith music always.
September 9, 2024 @ 2:00 am
I’M VERY SORRY BUT I CERTAINLY NEG TO DIFFER WITH YOU ON COUNTRY MUSIC DIEING out in the ’80s with artists like Jamey Johnson and shooter Jennings how even got guys are turning over from rock and roll to become country artists the biggest one being Aaron Lewis from staying with got a great voice for that kind of music and hell of a writing style and then you got a metal singer Cody jinks who’s f****** amazing and then right along with these guys you got my favorite his name is Tyler Childers check him out and tell me country is dead buddy country is alive and well you just got to know where to look and it damn sure ain’t at the Grand Ole Opry it’s in The honky tonks and the bars they’re in the surrounding area that’s why David Allen Cole , stood outside on the top of his Hearst stood out and pissed on it because that’s what it’s all about Buddy all about f*** the establishment that’s what country music was meant to be country music is nothing more than hillbilly Rock and roll with some bluegrass style throwing on top they gives it the country twang that it has seriously check out those artists that I threw out and then you tell me the country not one of these guys was even born I don’t think in the ’80s besides Jamie Johnson and he’s f****** amazing you have to listen to his original s*** and then the newest one is Creed Fisher holy cow this guy came out of nowhere take the doors in then took Nashville by storm except for he ain’t f****** down with the whole Nashville establishment thing either these guys are really bringing the tradition of outlaw country back into the f****** mix from the days of Hank senior right through to Wayland Merle Johnny paycheck George Jones Willie Johnny Cash and a number of other people they’re the ones that broke the ground for these guys to be able to stand up and do what they’re doing today I found almost every single one of these artists through YouTube Tyler Childers wasn’t even sign to a contract when I found him he released his first two albums out of his own pocket from a private studio and Kentucky he wrote almost all the material between the age of 14 to 19 years old and it’s just usually it’s just really him playing with an acoustic and it’s absolutely f****** amazing those first two albums are really heartfelt die hard country this kid went from like 100,000 hits my first saw his video on YouTube to over a million in like a week and a half he just blew up and he deserves it I just pray to God that he doesn’t bend over and let the establishment give it to him up the ass and f****** ruin him because that would be a travesty he deserves to be left alone to make his music his way because truly every artist needs that creativity f****** out what the establishment doesn’t have a goddamn clue what’s good and what ain’t all they do is look at these country singers and if they fit the mold and they’re good looking wearing a cowboy hat you can sing relatively okay well they’re f****** country stars Blake Shelton to me is an absolute clown what is he doing really for country music what has he contributed that is truthfully something is going to last and people won’t mind listening to it 20 years from now honestly that’s what makes real music something with longevity something that holds up against a test of time because it comes from the heart and that’s what those are decided to mentioned all do here’s another one that started his career in the ’70s and was relatively unknown until the late 80s when he came out with the one hit song Copperhead road the man’s name is Steve Earle however Copperhead road is a great song in and of itself especially live however it’s nothing compared to the s*** that he’s got son standing before that in his repertoire and granted he’s taking liberties of redoing other people’s music but he was influenced and taught by one of the artists of our lifetime for country music Townes Van zandt it is other mentor it was Guy Clark so how in the hell can you beat that and tell me that country music died in the ’80s you just aren’t listening to the right f****** music buddy you’re trying to find it on the radio and you ain’t never going to find it there trying to find true COUNTRY MUSIC ON THE COUNTRY SYNDICATED RADIO I COMPLETELY UNDERSTAND AND AGREE WITH YOU THERE ARE A FEW EXEMPTIONS LIKE Allison krouse and nickel Creek Brad Paisley Zack Brown BUT GOOD LORD YOU HAVE HAD TO HAVE HEARD CHRIS STAPLETON and his first signed debut as a member of THE STEEL DRIVERS JUST TAKE TIME A COUPLE HOURS ON A SATURDAY OR SUNDAY AFTERNOON AND CHECK OUT ANY ONE OF THESE ARTISTS AND THEN YOU WILL DEFINITELY HAVE A COMPLETELY DIFFERENT OPTION THAN WHAT YOU STATED IN YOUR earlier post however I definitely will agree that country music did kinda turn to shit in the 80s but cum on look at what was popular in that decadeTHE DUO OF MILLI AND VANILLI WON A AWARD for a song that they not only had no idea what they were pretending to send as a message to the American people Who were Buying records and cassettes because they had no part in anything 2 create the MUSIC AND COULDN’T EVEN SING TO THE BACKING TRACK THAT WAS RECORDED at least they could dance That SIR IS WHAT HAPPENS TO ARTIST WHO ALLOW THE MUSIC INDUSTRY TO CONTROL EVERY SINGLE ASPECT OF THEIR CAREER AND I WANT TO SAY THAT YOU MENTIONED THAT NO GOOD BUM GIVING HIM THE SAME LAME CREDIT THAT NASHVILLE DID SURE HE HAS A DECENT VOICE AND LOOKED THE PART BUT SADLY HE DIDN’T WRITE OR EVEN COWRITE ANY OF THE LONG LIST OF HITS THAT HE WAS HAND PICKED BY NASHVILLE RECORD EXECUTIVE’S THAT HAVE NOT GOT A SINGLE FUCKING CLUE ABOUT WHAT true COUNTRY MUSIC is all about the origins of country music come from gospel blues and traditional Appalachian and Southern-style music there was brought over this country origins and played for generations up in the hills DOWN in the hollers on back porches and at local Barn dances sometimes with nothing more than a homemade cigar box guitar if you can even call it that and a wash board banjo and the voices of the depressed and savagely resilient People that settled down to work and raise their families thru the toughest times that our country had ever known during the days of the great depression and prohibition and they struggled to just survive and put food on the table and clothes on their backs they WERE TRULY PAYING THEIR DUES AND IT DEFINITELY SHOWS THAT IN THEIR EARLY DAYS OF TRADITIONAL Appalachian and Southern-style music The stories of their own lives and the hardships they were forced to endure is what they sang about and it was pure and full of what makes a good song and one that will definitely stand up to the rest of time A story that almost anyone who has lived at the bottom most of their life and scrapes by FROM week to week and paycheck to paycheck if they are lucky so they are likely to go out and drink on the weekend just to try and make it easier to accept the shitty life that they have been delt and now the same place is going to end up probably killing it’s self right out of existence with the whole opiate epidemic and the METH AND UNEMPLOYMENT THOSE SAME PEOPLE ARE LITTERLY IN THE WORST STATE THAT HAS EVER BEEN IN THE PAST THE COAL INDUSTRY LEAVING AND THE DRUGS TAKING THEIR PLACE AND THE TRADITIONAL SUPPLEMENTIAL INCOME FOR A POOR BASTARD Struggling to make ends meet.down in DARK ASS hole in the ground killing every thing in their body just to make ends meet and then have an entire community that solely supports itself by their RESIDENTS DOWN IN THOSE MINES AND FOR 40 YEARS MOST OF THEM DONT EVEN SEE THE SUN AND THAT’S IF THEY DON’T DIE FROM INHALING ALL THE COAL DUST THEY ARE EXPOSED That SIR IS WHAT traditional country music ROOTS ARE AND THEY ARE SATURATED and still growing strong in the world of the outlaws and nonestabishedment rinestone ripoff artists.wearing a.Stetson and pair of snakeskin cowboy boots instead of a pair of overhauls and STEEL TOE BOOTS AND TOOL BELT HOPE YOU TAKE THE TIME TO ACTUALLY LOOK INTO THE NEW NON GRAND OLE OPRY RINESTONE WANNABE FAKE ASS COUNTRY SYNDICATED RADIO POLISHED TURD SHIT THAT THEY ARE GIVING AWARDS AWAY FOR NOWADAYS PLEASE RESPOND BACK AFTER YOU GIVE THEM A LISTEN I REALLY WOULD LIKE TO SEE WHAT YOU THINK ABOUT IT THEN
December 23, 2024 @ 11:29 am
You are so right !. The Opry needs to bring back some of our older artists. It was magic to be there,and to hear,and watch them. No magic anymore.
February 1, 2016 @ 9:51 am
The artist gets more than the band members. and more than that if they host a segment.
December 21, 2020 @ 6:48 pm
Gil, how about Alan Jackson not being country enough. As far as Vince Gill he is maybe not enough country, but bluegrass. He was good enough to replace Glenn Frey of the Eagles and did one hell of a job.
April 27, 2021 @ 11:42 am
Vince Gill .
To me as a Traditional country and western promoter since my friendship with the late .
Mary Reeves ,1963 her husband the late Gentleman James Travis Reeves .
I became a fan of Jim’s music,and family friend for 36 years.
Vince Gill knows a good voice when he hears one, he loved the voice of Jim Reeves.
There’s not a nicer song written and sung,By Vince Gill The Late John Hughey on steel
” look At Us” written and sung by Vince Gill ,and a fantastic ” guitarist and Bluegrass singer .
If your going to Induct a real country and western singer please make it Vince Gill.smaettly dress gent
David .
January 22, 2025 @ 3:06 pm
Lorrie Morgan has always been underrated in my opinion, and I think she is one of the all-time greats!
Also, true Country Music fans know that Gene Watson belongs in the C.M. Hall of Fame.
Okay, I’m done.
February 1, 2016 @ 9:06 am
Hey now. Blake’s got better things to do than play for a bunch of old farts and jackasses.
Truthfully, I don’t know much about how the Opry works. Does anyone ever get kicked out? 24 is certainly way too much to expect for the big stars. I have to give Carrie Underwood a lot of credit for playing 10. She obviously cares about the institution to do that.
February 1, 2016 @ 9:19 am
Besides Hank, I mean….obviously. Lol.
February 1, 2016 @ 1:33 pm
Johnny Cash was banned in the 60s for smashing out all the footlights with his mic stand.
May 28, 2020 @ 7:20 am
The Opry is going to kill its own self by the induction of people like Darius Rucker ????.
He can’t decide whether he’s country or pop, let me help you Darius, you’re pop and not even good pop. He’s just milking anything that he can get and he’s far from being country. Now Charley Pride, that is country and better than 90% of the new acts. He sang country because that was who he was. Darius will sing anywhere they would allow his arrogant big head on a stage. Bobby Bones? Who the hell is he? Craigs world? What is that about? I love our military but he bases his whole career on having been in the army and losing his son. I’m sorry but many many people have done both of those things. I now switch channels when I see him on because first, I can’t stand to watch him sing his style if you can call it that. Second, I don’t like the sound of his voice. Just because Blake is your buddy ain’t enough for me. And last I am tired of him playing off of sympathy for the loss of his son. I have lost a wonderful child and even after twenty years it is still hard. I retired for the music industry and although I was not famous, I did perform 270-280 dates a year for decades. I used to sing “One more day” by Diamond Rio regularly because it said exactly how I felt about my daughter and yes most of the time tears would run down my cheeks but, I never announced why I was going to sing it, I just did it to keep her memory fresh in my mind even though it did cause me pain. Everybody has their way of coping with that kind of loss but to me, I would never do anything to tarnish my memory of her, especially use that loss to tug at someone else’s heart strings. Enough said.
December 22, 2020 @ 11:02 pm
Greg, like it or not, Darius Rucker is now primarily a country music singer, and if he sings country (with occasional forays into rock now and then), he has a right to be featured at the Opry, especially if (unlike Shelton) he does what’s required to be there. Rucker’s just as valid a country musician as anybody else mentioned by Trigger that he likes, or any of the other contemporary Afro-American C&W singers mentioned in this article.
June 15, 2023 @ 5:04 am
The reason your not famous is your obvious racism and most likely lack of talent. It’s ok to be jealous but to claim Darius is not country is just not true. Try to close your eyes when listening, you will be surprised on what you see.
February 1, 2016 @ 9:43 am
Holly Dunn’s Opry membership was revoked about two years after her retirement… http://theboot.com/holly-dunn-opry/
January 28, 2021 @ 11:02 pm
Well Lefty, I knew at some point somebody would make this a racial issue, however, if you go back and read what I wrote, there was no mention of race, or color or even shoe size. I wrote what I did because its what I truly believe and he brings nothing to country music in my opinion, I don’t care how much Bobby Bones tries to jam him down country music fans throats. In fact I have to wonder who owns bones, because he sure didn’t rise to prominence in country by his work in pop radio. I can finally laugh and say, I really couldn’t care less I was lucky enough to retire from this industry and did quite well. I just find it disgusting that after all of the work and dedication from a lot of real country stars that a few nobodys can take down an icon like the opry.
February 1, 2016 @ 10:28 am
The problem right now is these rules have no teeth. The Opry doesn’t want to negative pub by kicking out mainstream artists. It’s got to be up on the artists to fulfill their obligations, and for other artists to police each other like Lorrie Morgan is doing here.
December 23, 2024 @ 11:36 am
It shouldn’t be about the money,and it’s very rude to call us ‘old farts’ !!!. We are the tried,and true blue fans of True, Country Music. We,as fans, crowded in to see the Opry,made sure it was full,and this paid their salaries. Bring back some real country !. Bring us ; George Strait,Alan Jackson, Lorrie Morgan,and anyone that’s alive,and can sing for us !!. I’d pay to see,and hear them. We old people, are the life blood of the Opry,but,don’t enjoy the crap that’s not Country !!!!!
February 1, 2016 @ 9:18 am
That’s why I was curious whether or not they get paid to play. For some of the older inductees, that could be their main source of income. Hence the high number of performances. I think 24 is a bit of a stretch for a currently touring act. 10 is doable and I think that’s enough.
February 1, 2016 @ 9:19 am
Thing is, it’s kinda hard to play at the Opry so many times if you have to constantly play concerts every week. There are a lot of things big stars have to do compared to people who don’t tour or play a lot of shows, and some people just don’t have time. I’m not defending Shelton. He should’ve gotten kicked out for his Old Farts comment. How could they kick out Hank for being drunk but not Blake for disrespecting country music? And hey, do singers actually play their dumb sellout songs, or do they play their best and most country songs at the Opry? I don’t imagine the Opry or its audience would appreciate “Boys Round Here,” but “Austin” is pretty good, so do they actually play good music there?
February 1, 2016 @ 10:01 am
BS didn’t even tour last year, so?
February 1, 2016 @ 10:31 am
Your average mainstream tour is 2 days on, five days off. Many times after a performance, they’re taking a private jet home and sleeping in their own bed in Nashville that night. Sure, it can still be hard to juggle performances, but you can’t show up more than 2 or 3 times a year like Blake? Two years he couldn’t find one night to play. If it’s too much of an obligation, that’s totally fine. Then turn down the opportunity and let someone who has the heart to fulfill it get the chance. Carrie Underwood had a baby, and still found the time for the Opry. That means Blake can too.
February 1, 2016 @ 5:32 pm
Blake is a fool, and operated.
November 2, 2020 @ 2:36 pm
That’s where the ” big bucks” come to play. From there they forget the past……it’s all about money !
November 2, 2022 @ 1:48 pm
Hank Sr. being kicked out of the Opry, yet there’s a statue at the front door of the Ryman to meet and greet everyone as they walk in is about as much bs as Blake Shelton not being kicked out. For me, George Jones is the quintessential country singer, he’s not a member of the Opry. Next on my list would be, Waylon and The Hag followed by George Strait and Alan Jackson…..not members!
December 23, 2024 @ 11:40 am
It shouldn’t be hard to do the Opry !. The Opry is Country Music !!. If you make a promise,you should uphold it. These new, so called stars care more about money,then their obligations to the Opry. I agree, don’t sign up,if you don’t want to be a member!!
February 1, 2016 @ 9:20 am
Good for Lorrie. Flake Shelton…my apologies, Blake Shelton deserves to be called out for neglecting his Opry member obligations. I, for one, would love to perform at the Opry one day. It seems as if Blake is taking for granted an opportunity that most country artists (REAL country artists) would love to have.
February 1, 2016 @ 9:22 am
Tell Lorrie I love her…
February 1, 2016 @ 9:32 am
He’s too busy going out with Gwen. And i’m sure he hasn’t heard any of the Top 10 performers. They’re all ”old farts”
February 1, 2016 @ 9:44 am
I’m no die hard BS fan, but at least I haven’t heard about him being banned from performing due to showing up drunk/high. I was told about her being banned in PC, FL because of this. If you commit to something, you should do your level.best to abide by that commitment, but if you can’t, then admit it and make other reasonable arrangements.
February 1, 2016 @ 9:56 am
People NEEDED to be shamed into going to the Opry? How ridiculous. Blake was only giving the invite b/c Trace talked to him about it when they did Hillbilly Bone. Trace asked if he would want to be a member & Trace said he would work on it. Since then Blake TALKS about the Opry but actions speak louder than words. Funny he seems to turn up for big televised/MOVIE events at the Opry? Also Brad/Darius live in Nash no excuse for those two either. Carrie makes her amount- maybe the Opry should have more FEMALE members, have a feeling that they would be great additions Miranda, Kellie Pickler, Sunny Sweeney, Ashley Monroe?
February 1, 2016 @ 10:34 am
Ashley Monroe and Kellie Pickler would make good additions. Since Miranda is spending more time in Nashville, I think she has to be considered a front runner for the next invite. But maybe she’s turned it down because she knows she can’t commit. Sunny spends most of her time in Texas these days so it might be hard for her.
February 1, 2016 @ 10:43 am
Ashley Monroe, yes, Kellie Pickler, no way.
February 3, 2016 @ 10:04 am
Kellie Pickler has more than paid her dues to be an Opry member
February 1, 2016 @ 1:26 pm
Miranda has NOT turned down an invite & the Opry wasn’t about to invite her when her husband was so neglectful in his shows, so maybe now that she is in Nash.
February 3, 2016 @ 9:32 am
Darius lives in Charleston. Sunny Sweeney lives in Texas. I fully expect Chros Janson to be the next Opry member now that he has hits.
February 1, 2016 @ 10:02 am
Back in the day, all the major artists kept up their commitment even though they had heavy road schedules. Some of them would send the band on to the next gig and the artist would fly in to do the opry and fly back out to meet their band. They would have their booking agents to schedule road shows around their opry performances. Also back in the day, the ones that couldn’t make their appearances were honest and would resign from the opry because they couldn’t make the shows they promised to do by becoming a member. Some of them rejoined the opry after their road dates started slowing down. Look at Little Jimmy Dickens, Jean Shepard, Jeannie Seeley, and a lot of the others. They always made their opry appearances no matter what. Also the opry has cancelled the membership of some of the artists in the past that was doing the same thing that BS and others are doing. They wanted to become members so they need to honor their commitment.
September 24, 2020 @ 3:51 pm
I think they should pay their dues so they never forget where they came from. Keep them humble.
February 1, 2016 @ 11:25 am
I think if your a member of the opry, then you should be there at least 5 times a year. I mean it’s not asking that much. It’s called support. I agree with Tom H.
February 1, 2016 @ 11:35 am
Lori Morgan!!! Remember not paying your bill at applebees when I first moved here waiting tables in 2004=2005. You had some glasses of wine, salads, and stiffed me and left without paying or tipping. I am dying laughing right now at the fact you are calling someone else out for not paying something. Thanks for treating a new guy in town like crap and stiffing me.
February 2, 2016 @ 12:29 am
Look at the history of her life…. This should not be surprising! I have heard better talent at karaoke events. REALLY! She better be glad her father was in the industry. She is nothing short of Nashville trash. She has always thought highly of herself, however, her actions have always shown that the only thing that has ever been beneath her was a mattress…
March 29, 2020 @ 12:44 pm
Wow! Now this should go viral. I’m sure Blake Shelton and the rest would like to know this… where is her class?
February 22, 2022 @ 2:24 am
Phil, That’s a long time fro hold a grudge over a bill. I hope you have healed.
February 1, 2016 @ 12:21 pm
He could do every other season of The Voice and focus his time on Opry when he isn’t on the show. Blake does not have to be on The Voice all the time. Maybe I’m wrong. I’m sure Carrie has more stuff to do then Blake. If Carrie Underwood can meet her obligations then Blake can do same thing.
February 1, 2016 @ 12:59 pm
I think there is a lot of jealous people out there!
February 1, 2016 @ 10:25 pm
When you’re getting paid 13 million per season of the voice you don’t quit one season so you can do the opry. You keep collecting those big ass checks and tell the opry folks to kiss your ass and go to hell.
December 23, 2024 @ 11:44 am
I totally disagree !!!
February 1, 2016 @ 12:24 pm
It should be pointed out the the Opry “sold” 1/3 or so of it’s slots to the mediocre, at best, stars of the show Nashville. They appear and take slots from up and coming acts that would gladly play the Opry for the exposure. I can’t stand to see another picture of “Deacon” on the billboard or otherwise. The Opry is to blame for this also.
February 1, 2016 @ 2:59 pm
The “Nashville” TV show is funded by the owners of the Opry. It’s good old-fashioned insular behavior of the country music industry, though I’m not sure how many slots they’ve taken away from people.
December 23, 2024 @ 11:45 am
Who is Deacon ?
February 1, 2016 @ 1:27 pm
From what I hear, bluegrass festivals are still going strong. Maybe the attendance problem at the Opry has something to do with the music offered.
February 1, 2016 @ 1:45 pm
24 seems high but 10 seems reasonable. It seems more logical to set a realistic number, then actually enforce it. I get that they don’t want controversial publicity, but if attendance is dwindling anyway, I doubt it would hurt and maybe it would help.
It is too bad that Shelton is in such dire financial straits that he’s having trouble scraping together his dues, though. *sarcasm font*
February 1, 2016 @ 1:45 pm
The Opry has changed over the years and so has ownership. In the Grand Ole Days, an artist had to be there a lot regardless of touring “if” you were a member because that radio show was your way to connect to a wide audience all over the world. Nowadays, an artist has multitudes of ways to get themselves in front of an audience. Since Gaylord is now the owner and the GOO has TWO venues, the challenge of occupying two venues with big current artists is much greater. Obviously, being a member of the GOO isn’t holding the elevation that it once had with the hot artists. It is still an honor to be asked to join and to be accepted by your peers and to be associated with the historical lineage therein but…if you are asked to join and accept, then hold up your end of the contract or resign. I do know that members have been shown the door during the past history….huge stars have been kicked off.
February 1, 2016 @ 3:19 pm
Isn’t it kind of hypocritical for someone to call someone out on not fulfilling their dues, but at the same time admit that the minimum in one’s mind is 24 and even that is short of the 16 that person gave last year?
I mean, I get Morgan’s point and all. It just smacked as a bit disingenuous was all.
February 2, 2016 @ 3:38 am
My thoughts exactly! Now, I’m a Lorrie Morgan fan and not a Blake Shelton fan, and I think it’s good that the no-shows are being called out, but I thought it was strange that she would do so if she didn’t meet the obligations herself (unless, as mentioned above, some performances count for two or three and she did have the equivalent of 24 performances – if 24 is, in fact, the minimum (it sure would be nice to know the actual rules)).
April 8, 2024 @ 1:21 pm
He is too busy making pop music with Gwen.
February 1, 2016 @ 4:37 pm
24 performances seems to be a lot to demand.
I think 10 performances is in the right ball park.
However I also do lay some blame at the door of the Opry for cheapening membership in it by so easily dishing it out to anyone who seems to be hot at the moment. For example Darius Rucker, Little Big Town, Keith Urban.
I have nothing against these three but are they really worthy of Opry membership?
I think the membership criteria should be made a bit more demanding.
December 23, 2024 @ 11:48 am
If there isn’t a good reflux of entertainment at the Opry,there won’t be an Opry !
February 1, 2016 @ 6:32 pm
I think if a so called member can’t meet their obligations, they should be removed as a member.
February 1, 2016 @ 7:53 pm
Leave Blake alone. He does tons of great things
For all kinds of causes. He is a wonderful person.
February 3, 2016 @ 7:34 pm
Lets say Blake Shelton was the nicest, sweetest man on earth. Let’s say he was so great and wonderful he made MLK and Mother Teresa look like scumbags. The fact is it doesn’t matter how “wonderful” you are. The Opry has set standards which artists are aware of going in. If you can’t abide by the standards and rules set forth, then you shouldn’t get to be a member. Plain and simple.
December 10, 2020 @ 4:40 pm
Drove down to Tennessee to by a martin[up in canada] didn’t even go to opry because there is no opry anymore.that’s just life. Money in so called country music isn’t dead ,but the music is dead as a nail in a door jam. Someone called rock music rock,someone called bluegrass bluegrass,Ect . Now someone find a name for what their playing today. Gil
December 23, 2024 @ 11:49 am
Amen ❤️ 🙏🏼
February 1, 2016 @ 9:33 pm
While I’m all for people meeting their obligations in whatever station of life they’re in, and BS (a more apt set of initials could not be given for this guy) should honour said obligations, the Opry’s bottom line is all about the money. One needs to look no further than the folks featured in the “Opry Movie” to see which stars are held in higher esteem by the powers that be, because they draw money, and they’re like the shiny new ring for the Opry.
I’ve long thought the Opry has stood behind the guise of tradition and being stand-up to simply reinforce their bottom line. Sure, every organization needs to infuse cash into things to keep them going, but the Opry seems to have always used the good will of those willing to take their obligations seriously whilst courting the newest stars. I don’t know; I just think there are many in the Opry management that are disingenuous about tradition and preserving country music. I’m sure I’m not the only one.
February 1, 2016 @ 10:28 pm
You’re not
February 1, 2016 @ 10:24 pm
Allow me to offer another name to the discussion: Garth Brooks. He’s been an ‘opry member’ since 1990. However, he was retired at least 15 of those 26 years. And, has not played anywhere close to even 10 shows per year when he was active. The Opry has every right to enforce a rule – spoken or understood – but can’t discriminate. If Blake is held to the standard, so should Garth. So should Paisley, Trace, Darius, etc. Reba is also a member. How many shows a year has SHE attended and performed? Let us not discriminate and call out only 1 or 2. Let’s look at the entire active roster.
Lastly, the reason the old-timers play is because, well, quite frankly they don’t have much else to do. When Blake is getting north of $250k to play a show at the Iowa State Fair – it’s hard to pass up that kind of touring money to play the opry. Right or wrong, it’s reality. Jeannie Seely and Mike Snider aren’t getting those kinds of offers.
February 1, 2016 @ 10:30 pm
This guy is preaching the gospel right here
February 1, 2016 @ 11:23 pm
Bill,
You’re totally right Garth, Reba, and many others also deserve to be criticized for not fulfilling their Opry obligations, and I wrote an article a couple of weeks ago (and linked above) doing that very thing. You would have to ask Lorrie Morgan why she decided to single Blake Shelton out, though I believe it may have been the interviewer who brought up Blake Shelton first, not Lorrie. The reason might be because Blake Shelton is actually starring in this upcoming Opry movie, and Garth is not.
February 2, 2016 @ 8:36 pm
How do u know Garth isn’t .he does a lot that the public doesn’t know about ,
February 2, 2016 @ 9:23 pm
But to pay his dues, he has to put on public performances. The Grand Ole Opry is not a charity. Not sure what he could do behind the scenes to help them out.
February 3, 2016 @ 7:57 am
Have u seen every performance he does ??? Garth is very busy and he does what he can and he does come there .Have u seen him surprise people there so he does make appearance…. How does Lorrie know so much about Grand OLE Opry is she there everyday ??
December 23, 2024 @ 11:52 am
I believe she is .
February 2, 2016 @ 5:45 pm
If the recent article is right and the requirement is upped to 24, then even Lorrie herself is falling short. Personally, I think the goal should be set to play 24, but 10 is a good minimum. Anyone who can’t find time to do 10 shows doesn’t deserve to be called a member. If I were the Opry, I would also have not remove any retired artist but may consider a separate membership category for them.
February 2, 2016 @ 5:46 am
I still love Blake. I don’t blame the guy, I wouldn’t wanna play there much either considering how many of the young bro-country pussies have been getting the stage. Lol twice a month, give your head a shake he’s got better things to do.
February 2, 2016 @ 8:07 am
Shouldn’t we be happy that Blake isn’t playing the Opry and tainting the music with the pap and drivel he has mistaken for ” country ” ?
February 2, 2016 @ 6:21 pm
I think it’s time Kacey Musgraves and/or Ashley Monroe gets the invitation to become an Opry member. Both are incredibly talented female artists, not to mention that both respect and seem to genuinely love country music and what it’s all about. Of what I’ve seen of their Opry performances, both do a great job. I believe both Musgraves and Monroe would take their Opry membership seriously and do everything they could to meet their obligations.
March 29, 2020 @ 10:55 am
Sorry I for one cant stand Kacey Musgraves ! She has an attitude thinking she can be the biggest n best. Wrong on that honey n btw quit wearing outfits like the best in country music does. By that I mean Patsy Cline. You will never b another Patsy !
February 2, 2016 @ 6:42 pm
IF I were to go to The Opry, I could care less if B.S. is there. I’m just a crazy old fart and a jackass to boot.
February 2, 2016 @ 7:01 pm
The Grand Ole Opry is spiraling into irrelevance at a break-neck speed. Traditionalists are losing respect due to the pop saturation, and current artists are becoming less and less concerned with it’s support due to it’s lack of mainstream influence/relevance. Is it doing anyone a significant amount of good, other than the ones selling tickets? The Opry seems to not have a clear identity. How can you claim to adhere to traditional roots and at the same time beg pop country artists to help keep the mainstream paying attention? It’s hard to respect a flip-flopper, at least for me
December 23, 2024 @ 11:56 am
The Opry used to be led by people who loved Country Music. Who knew what talent would bring in the crowds. It seems the new owners,managers, wouldn’t understand real country. If they wanted to keep the Opry alive,they would fight to maintain it. Very tragic 😥
March 19, 2016 @ 4:38 pm
How did Blake Shelton ever get in in the first place
September 21, 2020 @ 8:59 am
Reply to lorries morgan remarks about Blake Shelton it seems I’ve heard that remark somewhere else the only thing I can say is maybe he’s so good of a singer he don’t need the Oprys approval.and he certainly don’t need yours so go on back and listen to your only hit song and let Blake take care of himself.but I will give you this you’re really pretty in that red dress.
December 23, 2024 @ 12:00 pm
The Opry used to be led by people who loved Country Music. Who knew what talent would bring in the crowds. It seems the new owners,managers, wouldn’t understand real country, if it smacked them in the face !. If they wanted to keep the Opry alive,they would fight to maintain it. Very tragic 😥
April 8, 2016 @ 12:57 pm
Here’s the problem. The Opry needs to stay with it’s roots in real traditional country music as it was originally intended. Why in the world is the Opry bending over backwards to suck up to these so called country singers of today that don’t even come close to what the Opry is all about and don’t really care! To most of the current so called country stars, the Opry is an old fogie tradition that caters to an age group outside their means of interest and there’s no payoff in it. Making their high dollar in doing personal tours takes number one priority. The passion and love of where it all began and the ones who brought them there, has completely gone. Most of the modern singers of today consider themselves way above the Grand Ole Opry performances. I as a musician and singer of traditional country music would consider it to be the ultimate honor in being asked to become a member of the Opry. It is the epitome of “country music”, but then again, I’m true blue to country music. Nashville producer’s need to wake up! There is a huge untapped audience out there that loves traditional country music both young and old. The biggest population in the U.S. today are the baby boomers that grew up on the traditional/classic country music. Don’t tell me there’s no market for it! They’re just waiting for it all to take a 360 degree turn. I speak from experience as a producer/singer/musician of our own Opry that we conduct in Texas. So in answering the question of reviving the Grand Ole Opry, Nashville needs to re-direct and bring real country music back to the stage. Once that’s done, you’ll see the Grand Ole Opry, back to the status of where it’s suppose to be, until then these new country cats just don’t give a rip!
April 28, 2016 @ 2:33 am
At one time she was my favorite,saw her and Pam Tillis in Piegon Forge last year and was very disappointed as was the house as many when leaving making remarks all negative.Thought she was the star when Pam acted the perfect lady while Lori at one time had 3 cups of ??? on the stool,chopping gum,making sure she always showed lots of “leg” Seems every picture you see of her there’s always a wine glass in her hand. Then there’s the plastic face, capped teeth which she makes every effort to show. stringy wigs At one time she was beautiful,now not so..Times married? Times bankrupt? Maybe the reason she can play the Opry so much is she is fast becoming a has been and no big concerts booked.
November 9, 2019 @ 12:31 pm
Wait, modern country artists who sing incessantly about their beloved deep country roots not paying their dues at the Mother Church? Hell, they’d rather fill another stadium with mouth-breathing, Yeti-logoed morons than write and perform songs worthy of the Ryman stage.
March 29, 2020 @ 10:52 am
Your right Smokey ! You just gotta love Carrie Underwood ! Shes so awesome n what an addition to the grand ole Opry she has made !
March 29, 2020 @ 12:34 pm
Is this really any of her business that these country singers havent paid their dues? Is she the head person at the Opry to blab this out… maybe contacting him instead of internet shaming him wouldve been more appropriate.
September 22, 2020 @ 1:15 am
Not that it changes anything but just to keep the facts straight, the opry has definitely taken new members since 2014. I know Gene Watson was inducted in February of this year.
September 22, 2020 @ 7:20 am
This article is over 4 1/2 years old. The information is accurate for when it was posted.
October 18, 2020 @ 8:40 pm
Miranda Lambert….humble and real country should be invited in…she is a great music writer and puts out good country music and helps others in country music also does much for the animal world..I am praying she will be inducted into the Grand Old Opry House that should stay real country…thank you for listening to me…much prayer <3
April 27, 2021 @ 12:06 pm
Bobby Bare and his wife.
1966, Liverpool,UK I arranged to meet up with him and his lovely wife Jeanne ,not sure if that’s spelt right.
It was a very hot day in Liverpool,most of the country artist where from USA on Gigs ,Faron young ,my friend .
Anyway Bobby came from his upstairs bedroom to meet me.His wife said Bobby this is David and Brother they want
To Intaview concerning you closes friend Jim Reeves. And we went over to the table and Bobby said what do you want to talk about? I said you where very close to Jim Reeves ? Yes I lived near him ,I said you Chet Atkins and the late Faron Young where on tour at Kimberly he said yes,cut the long story short ,I’m a close friend of Mary Reeves.
He didn’t know what to say mexcept go away don’t beleave you,prove it ,I took my inside pocket a 10/7″ black white picture singed to David Markham ,he nearly fell to the floor. We chattered for some time and I was very happy,
When I arrived home I phoned Mary Up and told her ,she was very happy for me.I’m coming up to 80 and have had
3,Strokes .
March 6, 2022 @ 4:44 pm
Being a member of the Grand Ol Opry used to be a sign that you had reached the top. It was supposed to be the pinnacle of one’s career in Country Music. I believe that once you are a member you should meet their requirements or voluntarily leave. If you won’t do it voluntarily, you should be removed. Being asked or required to play once a month doesn’t seem like too much to ask. Two songs and gone but make an appearance. As for Morgan’s comments, so what. She is entitled to her opinion and her “dues” are paid. As for Blake Shelton….how did he get in in the first place? Marginal talent at best. I sure wouldn’t pay to see him. He may be in the Country Music family, but he’s more like an ugly cousin that picks on the porch on a Saturday night. Morgan is far more talented. And better looking. Let him retire if that’s what he wants. Nuff said.
April 27, 2022 @ 6:23 am
Lori Who??? It ain’t how you preform on the Opry Stage it’s how your preform in your life. Stiffing a poor waiter… Momma told me , get some business of your own and mind it.
April 27, 2022 @ 2:55 pm
Take it up with your new boss…. Elon Musk.
December 3, 2022 @ 5:44 pm
Real country music died with Ray Price, this crap they play now ain’t nothing!
January 27, 2023 @ 4:16 pm
Jim should learn to speak his only language well.
December 23, 2024 @ 3:50 pm
Well Ill through a wrench into things. Taylor swift ,—i wouldn’t cross the road to see her. She can sing but she’s not diff—it blows my mind how people are attracted to her. Hearing no mud or garbage or anything negative about her I decided to check internet on her popularity. It’s not normal for some negativeness or lies or any thing to appear on internet——and I spent a lot of time trying to find something. She’s nice looking but nothing exceptional seems just plain nice.—however what I’d did find was everything very positive especially with young people, say she connects with them, can you imagine a seemingly honest person of wealth and fame connecting with young people and all types of people. When I got done my 3-4 hour investigation I decided I’d definetly cross the street to tell her she’s very special.—everybody can’t be wrong——I continue to ask people in conversation with ——what do they see or most people see in TAYLOR SWIFT.