2011-56 Grand Ole Opry, Nashville, Tennessee
Hello
All,
Leaving Kentucky our next target destination was Nashville, Tennessee. Decades ago we rode the General Jackson paddle wheel showboat down the Cumberland River during a visit to the city. We’ll never forget the experience. It was the first and only time we’ve seen a guy play two saxophones at the same time! Wow, what an amazing feat! That show made a lasting memory—it was awesome. While in the city we also took in the Grand Ole Opry at the old Ryman Auditorium--it was a real hoot. Now the Opry has a new home at the Grand Ole Opry House, so we thought we would check it out.
It is a lovely venue and the grounds were immaculately landscaped. While waiting for the doors to open you could dine outside or just wander around taking photos, which was right up our alley in the lovely long evening shadows of twilight.
Leaving Kentucky our next target destination was Nashville, Tennessee. Decades ago we rode the General Jackson paddle wheel showboat down the Cumberland River during a visit to the city. We’ll never forget the experience. It was the first and only time we’ve seen a guy play two saxophones at the same time! Wow, what an amazing feat! That show made a lasting memory—it was awesome. While in the city we also took in the Grand Ole Opry at the old Ryman Auditorium--it was a real hoot. Now the Opry has a new home at the Grand Ole Opry House, so we thought we would check it out.
It is a lovely venue and the grounds were immaculately landscaped. While waiting for the doors to open you could dine outside or just wander around taking photos, which was right up our alley in the lovely long evening shadows of twilight.
That
evening was the 25-year celebration of Randy Travis being a member of the Grand
Ole Opry. Headliners also scheduled to perform were Josh Turner and Carrie
Underwood. Wow, what better way to spend a Saturday night in Nashville!
Little Jimmy Dickens kicked off the show as host. He is known for his jokes, humorous songs, size (4’11”) and rhinestone-studded outfits. At 90 years old he is the oldest living member of the Opry, having been a member since 1948. As of this writing, he is 92 and still makes regular appearances as the host.
Little Jimmy Dickens kicked off the show as host. He is known for his jokes, humorous songs, size (4’11”) and rhinestone-studded outfits. At 90 years old he is the oldest living member of the Opry, having been a member since 1948. As of this writing, he is 92 and still makes regular appearances as the host.
It
was a packed house and everyone seemed to be really enjoying the
entertainment—we sure were.
Coincidently, this
would be the second time for us seeing Randy Travis in Nashville. When we saw
the Opry years ago at the old Ryman Auditorium he was performing at a club
across the street. Between shows at the club he came to the Ryman and did an unscheduled
surprise performance. The crowd went wild. This evening after being introduced
he came on stage and sang a good half-dozen songs before taking a break. He
certainly has a one of a kind voice.
In
between the stars there were other performances by up and coming groups and
standup comedians.
An Opry regular for years was country comedian Minnie Pearl. She performed there for over 50 years before succumbing to breast cancer in 1996. Her legacy is still being carried on at the Opry.
An Opry regular for years was country comedian Minnie Pearl. She performed there for over 50 years before succumbing to breast cancer in 1996. Her legacy is still being carried on at the Opry.
Next
up was Josh Turner. Wow, what a beautiful voice! The young girls in the
audience went crazy! As you can see the younger stars don’t embrace the old-time
fancy outfits.
After
he sang a number of his hits, Randy came out and joined Josh for a couple of
songs.
Then
it was Carrie Underwood’s turn on stage. Without question, she is a mega country
and pop star. Not only is she an attractive lady, she can really belt out a song
with her beautiful voice.
Carrie
sang four or five songs and then was joined by Randy on stage. They sang a
couple of duets together—beautiful! You really get your money’s worth when you
attend an Opry show.
It
was an evening that we thoroughly enjoyed, but all good things must come to an
end. After a good night’s sleep we headed for home in Alabama. It was an easy
110-mile drive. However, we did make a few more trips before the year was over--more
on those later.
Until next time,
Dave & Barb
The Traveling Browns
Until next time,
Dave & Barb
The Traveling Browns