How Artists Are Invited to Join the Grand Ole Opry? How to Get In
It's always a moment full of emotions and, more often than not, lots of happy tears.
The Grand Ole Opry has been showcasing the best of country music for a century, from spotlighting up-and-coming artists to revered icons of the genre. Becoming a member of the institution is one of the biggest honors a country music star can receive.
In honor of Grand Ole Opry’s 100th anniversary, a long list of Opry members will take the stage at NBC’s Opry 100: A Live Celebration, hosted by Blake Shelton. Nearly a decade after he made his debut at the historic Nashville venue, The Voice Coach alum became an Opry member in 2010, a moment he said in a statement is “a highlight of my life and career.”
“And 15 years later, I still get that same feeling of reverence and excitement every time I walk out on that stage,” Shelton continued. “The Grand Ole Opry has been connecting the country music family for 100 years, and I’m so proud to be part of this historic celebration.”
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So how exactly does a country music star like Shelton become a member of the Grand Ole Opry? And how are they invited to join? Read on for all the details.
How does an artist become a Grand Ole Opry member?
There’s no one exact roadmap to membership, but the Opry considers a lot of factors such as career accomplishments. That said, it's not just legacy icons who are asked to join.
“Opry management looks for a musical and a generational balance. Opry membership requires a passion for country music’s fans, a connection to the music’s history, and it requires commitment — even a willingness to make significant sacrifices to uphold that commitment,” the Opry’s official website explains. “Often, the Opry seeks out those who seek out the Opry, though decisions aren’t based on which artists appear most on the show, either.”
The ultimate decision comes down to Opry management, who look at an artist’s relationship with fellow musicians, their fans, and the Grand Ole Opry as a whole, the website explains.
As of 2025, there are currently over 70 Opry members, including both solo acts and groups.
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How are artists invited to join the Grand Ole Opry?
Invitations to join the Grand Ole Opry are typically extended to an artist in front of an audience by an existing member. And it’s always an emotional moment.
For example, during the Season 25 finale of The Voice, Reba McEntire surprised Lainey Wilson with an invite to become the newest member of the Opry.
“I have heard that I’ve inspired you and what you’ve done so far, and I am thrilled to death if I had anything to do with your career, ‘cause you are blowing it up,” McEntire told Wilson on stage in May 2024. “I couldn't be more proud to be the one that helps you continue to bridge the gap between our generations, keep ‘em all goin’. I’d like to be the person who invites you to be an official member of the Grand Ole Opry.”
Similarly, Opry members Craig Morgan, Chris Janson, and John Conlee presented Luke Combs with his invitation on stage in 2019. And when Little Big Town invited Kelsea Ballerini to join the Grand Ole Opry that same year, they did it through song.
“Yes!” Ballerini said through tears as she accepted the invite on stage at just 26 years old. “It’s the greatest gift in the whole world, and this is the home of country music. And I get to be a part of it, which is crazy, so thank you!”
What does being a member of the Grand Ole Opry mean?
Not only does being a member of the Opry come with the honor of being recognized by the leading institution of country music, artists are also granted regular access to the venue.
Once an artist has been invited and then inducted into the Grand Ole Opry, they can host or perform at any live show at the venue and are expected to make regular appearances. Every month, there are dozens of shows scheduled with a lineup of performances from both members and non-members.
Decades ago, there was a “credit system” in place that required Opry members made a certain number of appearances or performances to keep the membership, but Rolling Stone notes those rules have “relaxed considerably.”
McEntire, who made her Grand Ole Opry debut in 1977 and was inducted in 1986, has compared being a member of the Opry to a family. “The Grand Ole Opry is a home,” the Happy’s Place star once said. “It’s a family. It’s like a family reunion, when you come back and get to see everybody.”
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How to watch the Opry 100: A Live Celebration
The Opry 100: A Live Celebration airs live from Nashville on Wednesday, March 19 from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock.
