The Grand Ole Opry Celebrates 100 Years of Country Music History 🎶🎉
On March 19th, country music’s biggest stars gathered to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Grand Ole Opry, a show that began as a small radio broadcast in 1925 and has since become one of the most iconic programs in country music history.
As the Opry’s popularity grew, it quickly outgrew its original venues. In 1974, the Opry moved to its current home, a 4,400-seat concert house in Nashville, providing the space needed to evolve and expand its influence in the music world.
The Opry 100 celebration was broadcast live from the Opry House in Nashville, with Blake Shelton hosting the star-studded evening. Over two dozen legendary artists took the stage, including Reba McEntire, Alan Jackson, Garth Brooks, Carrie Underwood, Trace Adkins, and Vince Gill, many of whom are cherished Opry members. Additionally, Luke Combs, Lainey Wilson, Brad Paisley, and Keith Urban performed from the Opry’s original home at the Ryman Auditorium.
Vince Gill’s Opry Legacy
Vince Gill, a multitalented artist and Opry member for over 30 years, made his Opry debut on June 29, 1989, and was officially inducted on August 10, 1991. His career breakthrough came with his 1990 solo album When I Call Your Name, which featured the title track that reached the #2 spot on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. Vince tearfully performed the song during his Opry induction, and it has since become one of his most requested live performances.
“Go Rest High On That Mountain” at Opry 100
As part of the Opry 100 celebration, Vince Gill delivered an emotional performance of his iconic song “Go Rest High On That Mountain” during the ‘In Memoriam’ segment. Written after the untimely death of fellow country star Keith Whitley in 1989, the song wasn’t completed until 1993 following the death of Vince’s brother, Bob.
Joining Vince was Ricky Skaggs, who had provided backing vocals for the original recording, along with Sonya Isaacs and a choir of additional Opry members. Vince dedicated the song to his mother, who turns 100 years old this year, saying, “This song is about her son.”
An emotional slideshow played in the background during the performance, remembering beloved country stars like Troy Gentry, Loretta Lynn, Johnny Cash, Jimmy Buffett, and Joe Diffie. The audience, visibly moved, wiped away tears as Vince and the choir performed.
Watch Vince Gill’s touching performance of “Go Rest High On That Mountain” with Ricky Skaggs at the Opry 100 celebration below. 🎤