Few things in America age as gracefully, or warms as many hearts in the later years as the younger ones, as the nation’s longest running radio program. Tonight the world-famous Grand Ole Opry will celebrate 85 years of non-stop performances.
Last week the Opry house reopened after the flood destroyed so many memories. ‘Little’ Jimmy Dickens and Brad Paisley opened the new stage to a most enthusiastic crowd. There is no way not to watch the opening moments and not feel a lump in the throat as the old legends who made the famed circle of wood mean something take to the stage as a group. There is no way not to know the Opry stars who have passed on, but once stood in the circle, are not rejoicing from above on the biggest stage ever.
When we observe a birthday such as this there is no way not to look back and reflect on some of those who made the airwaves crackle with music.
Lorrie Morgan sings a song about the Opry and the way it all came about. Simple and direct.
There was no way to end a small a birthday post for the Opry without some humor. The Opry has always prided itself on wholesome and enduring laughs. Perhaps there was no better way to make sure the audience would smile and laugh than to bring to center stage Roy Acuff and Minnie Pearl. I like how this last video looks, as this is how most people enjoy the Opry….on the radio!
CAFFEINATED POLITICS 