The official book celebrating 100 years of the Grand Ole Opry-an intimate, gorgeously illustrated, behind-the-scenes look at the American institution and world-renowned stage for country music.
Since 1925, the Grand Ole Opry has left an undeniable mark on American culture. What began as a one-hour "barn dance" radio program has transformed into the longest running radio broadcast in US history, as well as a live performance for millions of country music fans each year. Widely regarded as the show that made country music famous, the Opry has played an important role in the careers of country music's biggest stars––including Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton, Loretta Lynn, Garth Brooks, Carrie Underwood, Luke Combs, and countless others––for nearly a century, popularizing and preserving some of the most beloved forms of American music.
As country music has broadened and its audience continues to grow, the Grand Ole Opry has evolved alongside the genre itself. This centennial celebration showcases the venerable institution's history through lively, never-before-seen photography and ephemera from years past, as well as behind-the-scenes stories from those who have paced backstage before career-defining performances, and those who have come to know the Opry as a second home. Replete with gorgeous illustrations and tributes from country music's biggest names, 100 Years of the Grand Ole Opry is a glorious, one-of-a-kind celebration, and a must-have for any country music fan. The Grand Ole Opry features today's country music stars, superstars, and rising stars all on one stage, every week in Nashville, Tennessee-Music City, USA. Their world-famous show is where aspiring stars dream of playing and music lovers connect with their favorite artists up close at the Opry House. From the radio show that made it famous in 1925 to the cultural landmark and global phenomenon it is today, the Opry is the country's biggest stage.
Craig Shelburne grew up in rural Nebraska watching the Grand Ole Opry on TNN. He moved to Nashville in 1994 and earned a journalism degree from Belmont University. He has written for the Bluegrass Situation, CMT.com, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, Folk Alliance International, International Bluegrass Music Association, MusicRow magazine, and many other outlets. In addition, he has produced three AMERICANAFEST music festivals for the Americana Music Association. This is his first book.
