Celebrating a Century of Country Music: The Grand Ole Opry’s Star-Studded Opry 100 Celebration
For 100 years, the Grand Ole Opry has been a stage for some of the finest country music artists in the world. To commemorate this monumental milestone, the Opry is hosting a spectacular celebration featuring an array of star-studded performances.
This year’s lineup includes a remarkable roster of artists, such as Ashley McBryde, Post Malone, Reba McEntire, Randy Travis, Eric Church, Trace Adkins, Amy Grant, and many more.
Carrie Underwood: A Cherished Member of the Opry
Among the performers is Carrie Underwood, a beloved member of the Grand Ole Opry since her surprise induction by Randy Travis on March 15, 2008. This moment came three years after her victory on American Idol in 2005, during which Randy Travis made a surprise appearance to welcome her into the Opry. The audience erupted in applause, honoring his presence as Carrie turned in amazement to find him behind her.
“When I was a kid, my sister had a cassette tape of Randy Travis’s music. From the first time I heard him sing his traditional country voice and those songs, I was hooked, and I knew my sister was not getting that tape back. The first time I met him many years later, I cried—embarrassing! But it was so emotional for me to meet this man whose voice I’ve been singing to and along with my whole life. I could never have imagined that I’d be recording songs with him or that Randy would become my dear friend, or that he would surprise me on stage and invite me to join the Grand Ole Opry back in 2008. It means so much to me to be here tonight to celebrate the Opry and the amazing Randy Travis by singing two of my favorite songs of his.”
Randy informed her of her induction, prompting her to playfully respond, “Let me think about it,” before eventually saying yes. Overwhelmed by the emotional weight of the moment, tears filled her eyes as Randy embraced her and shared the news of her official membership date. Post-event, Carrie humorously remarked on how well the surprise had been kept.
Honoring a Legend: Underwood’s Tribute to Randy Travis
In a poignant full-circle moment at the Opry 100 celebration, Carrie Underwood took the stage in a stunning black dress, reminiscent of the outfit she wore during her surprise induction 17 years earlier. This time, she proudly honored Randy Travis with a heartfelt tribute.
Opening her performance with a touching speech, Carrie shared her admiration for Travis, who has been a significant influence in her life since childhood. She then performed two of his most beloved songs, beginning with “Three Wooden Crosses,” moving the audience—including Randy Travis’s wife, Mary Davis—to tears.
Following this, she sang “Forever and Ever, Amen,” and in a moving gesture, Carrie walked into the audience, allowing Randy Travis to join her for the final “Amen.” This was particularly poignant given his battle with health issues following a stroke years earlier.
When she concluded her tribute, the crowd erupted into a standing ovation, honoring both Carrie Underwood and the legendary Randy Travis.
Watch a brief clip from this unforgettable performance below.
