National Tune Into Opry Day

Young woman wearing a country-style dress, strumming a guitar, surrounded by microphone stands and a radio broadcasting booth.. — National tune into opry day illustration

Welcome to the fascinating world of National Tune into Opry Day! This special day celebrates the beloved Grand Ole Opry, a renowned radio broadcast and stage concert in Nashville, Tennessee. Get ready to learn all about the fascinating history of this iconic institution and why it deserves its own national day!

When is Tune Into Opry Day?

It's national tune into opry day on the 22nd February.

The Birth of the Grand Ole Opry

Picture this: It's the year 1925, and the world is about to witness the birth of a music phenomenon. On November 28th of that year, the Grand Ole Opry took to the airwaves for the very first time. What began as a one-hour radio "barn dance" quickly captured the hearts and ears of people across the nation.

The Opry showcased a diverse range of musical genres, including country, bluegrass, folk, and gospel. It became a platform for both established and emerging artists, giving them a chance to share their talents with a wider audience. The radio show's popularity skyrocketed, leading to its transition from a weekly radio program to a live stage concert.

Tuning In to Opry Greatness

The Grand Ole Opry became synonymous with incredible performances and unforgettable moments in music history. Legends like Hank Williams, Dolly Parton, Johnny Cash, and Patsy Cline graced its stage, leaving their mark on the world of country music. The Opry also played a pivotal role in popularizing genres like bluegrass and honky-tonk.

Over the years, the Opry has become a cherished institution, attracting millions of loyal fans from around the world. It continues to be broadcast live on radio and television, bringing the magic of country music directly into people's homes.

Celebrating National Tune into Opry Day

On this special day, we invite you to tune in and experience the joy of the Grand Ole Opry. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the world of country music, the Opry is sure to captivate you with its extraordinary performances and rich history. It's a chance to celebrate the influence of this cultural icon and the artists who have shaped the country music landscape.

History behind the term 'Tune Into Opry'

1920

Grand Ole Opry is Established

In 1920, a radio show named the "WSM Barn Dance" was created by George D. Hay in Nashville, Tennessee. The show became widely popular, featuring a mix of country music and comedic performances. It soon became known as the "WSM Grand Ole Opry," and people around the country started to tune in regularly to listen to the variety of music and entertainment it offered.

1925

Birth of The Grand Ole Opry

In 1925, a live radio show called The WSM Barn Dance went on air. The show featured various genres of music, including country, bluegrass, and folk. The popularity of the show grew rapidly, and it became known as The Grand Ole Opry in 1927. The Grand Ole Opry showcased both well-established and up-and-coming artists, becoming a significant platform for country music.

1925

The Birth of WSM Radio

In the year 1925, WSM Radio was born, marking the start of a cultural phenomenon. WSM, standing for 'We Shield Millions,' was the brainchild of the National Life and Accident Insurance Company, aiming to promote their business by broadcasting music. Little did they know that this would become the foundation for the future term 'tune into Opry.'

1925

The Birth of the Grand Ole Opry

In 1925, the National Life and Accident Insurance Company founded the WSM radio station in Nashville, Tennessee. As part of their programming, they created a show called the 'WSM Barn Dance' which featured live performances of country music. The show became immensely popular, paving the way for the birth of the Grand Ole Opry.

1925

The Birth of WSM Radio

In 1925, WSM Radio launched in Nashville, Tennessee. The radio station quickly gained a devoted following for its country music programming. It was one of the first radio stations in the United States to broadcast country music regularly. WSM Radio became an important platform for aspiring country musicians looking to make a name for themselves.

1925

WSM Radio Begins Broadcasting

The history of 'tune into opry' begins in 1925 when WSM Radio first started broadcasting. WSM, which stands for 'We Shield Millions,' was the first radio station in Nashville, Tennessee. It initially aired a variety of programs, including news, weather, and live music performances.

1925

The Birth of WSM Radio

In 1925, WSM Radio, also known as the 'Air Castle of the South,' was established in Nashville, Tennessee. The radio station was launched by the National Life and Accident Insurance Company as a means of promoting their business. Little did they know that WSM would go on to play a significant role in shaping the history of country music.

1927

The Grand Ole Opry is Born

In 1927, the Grand Ole Opry, a weekly country music stage concert, made its debut on WSM Radio. The show was initially called the WSM Barn Dance, but it was later renamed to the Grand Ole Opry in 1928. The Opry featured live performances by numerous country music artists, becoming a popular radio program throughout the United States.

1927

Grand Ole Opry Debuts

In 1927, the 'Grand Ole Opry' made its debut on WSM Radio. The show was originally named the 'WSM Barn Dance' and featured a mix of live country, bluegrass, and folk music performances. It quickly gained popularity and became a staple of American music culture.

1939

First Use of 'Tune In' Phrase

In 1939, as The Grand Ole Opry gained more traction, listeners across the United States eagerly 'tuned in' to listen to the live radio broadcasts. The phrase 'tune in' became synonymous with actively listening to The Grand Ole Opry. It represented the act of connecting with the show's unique atmosphere and experiencing the magic of live country music.

1925

The Phrase 'Tune Into Opry' is Coined

By 1925, the popularity of the Grand Ole Opry had soared, and people began using the phrase 'Tune into Opry' to refer to the act of listening to the radio show. The phrase captured the essence of the show's significance, emphasizing the importance of tuning in to catch the latest performances and updates from the country music scene. It quickly became a common expression within the country music community.

1927

The Introduction of 'Grand Ole Opry'

On November 28, 1925, WSM Radio aired its first-ever 'Barn Dance' program, featuring live performances by local musicians. Over time, the show gained popularity and was eventually renamed 'Grand Ole Opry' in 1927. The name was inspired by New York's 'Metropolitan Opera,' giving the show a prestigious and grand feel. 'Grand Ole Opry' became synonymous with showcasing the best in country music talent and solidified its place as a cultural institution in the world of country music.

1927

The Introduction of 'Tune into Opry'

In 1927, as the popularity of the WSM Barn Dance continued to grow, the announcer of the show, George D. Hay, coined the phrase 'Tune into Opry' to encourage listeners to tune in and listen to the live performances. The term 'Opry' was a shortened form of 'Grand Ole Opry' and soon became synonymous with the show itself.

1927

The Radio Show Goes Live

In 1927, the live radio show 'WSM Barn Dance' first hit the airwaves. The show's name was later changed to 'Grand Ole Opry,' inspired by the word 'opera' in honor of the grandiose musical performances that took place. This was the beginning of an iconic program that would shape the country music industry and lay the groundwork for the phrase 'tune into Opry.'

1943

Renaming WSM Barn Dance to the Grand Ole Opry

In 1943, the popular radio show 'WSM Barn Dance' was officially renamed to the 'Grand Ole Opry.' This marked a significant turning point in the history of country music, solidifying the show's identity and influence. The phrase 'tune into Opry' started gaining popularity, encapsulating the excitement and anticipation associated with listening to the legendary performances on the radio.

1943

The Phrase 'Tune into Opry' Emerges

As the 'Grand Ole Opry' radio show continued to grow in popularity, the phrase 'Tune into Opry' started being commonly used in connection with the program. It became a way for people to express their excitement and anticipation for the upcoming broadcast. 'Tune into Opry' became a catchphrase associated with listening to the show and became ingrained in the lexicon of country music lovers across the nation.

1943

The Grand Ole Opry Moves to Ryman Auditorium

In 1943, the Grand Ole Opry relocated to the historic Ryman Auditorium in downtown Nashville. The move solidified the show's place in country music history. As the show continued to attract a larger audience, more and more people tuned into Opry from all over the United States. The phrase 'Tune into Opry' became even more prevalent as it became synonymous with experiencing the unique and electrifying live performances at the Ryman Auditorium.

1932

Official Renaming of the Show

In 1932, the WSM Barn Dance show was officially renamed as the 'Grand Ole Opry.' This name change solidified the association of the show with the term 'Opry' and further popularized the phrase 'Tune into Opry' as a way for fans to engage with the program.

1932

The Term 'Tune into Opry' Emerges

As the Grand Ole Opry continued to captivate audiences, people started using the term 'tune into opry' to describe their act of listening to the radio show. The phrase perfectly captured the essence of tuning in to enjoy the live performances and lively atmosphere of the Opry.

1943

Introduction to 'Opry' as Slang

During the 1940s, the term 'Opry' gradually began to be used as slang for 'opera,' but with a country twist. The Grand Ole Opry had become so iconic that referring to it as 'Opry' became a recognizable term within the country music community. It symbolized the merging of traditional country sounds with the lively and engaging performances of the show.

1943

The Phrase 'Tune into Opry' Emerges

As the Grand Ole Opry gained popularity, people began using the phrase 'tune into Opry' to describe the act of listening to the radio broadcast of the show. This phrase perfectly captured the essence of connecting with the live performances and experiencing the energy of the Opry in the comfort of one's own home.

1960s

Evolution to 'Tune into Opry'

As the years progressed, the phrase 'tune into Opry' evolved as a catchy way to express the act of listening to The Grand Ole Opry's radio broadcasts. People would gather around their radios every week to 'tune into Opry,' immersing themselves in the vibrant country music culture. The term became ingrained in the lexicon and is still widely used to describe engaging with The Grand Ole Opry.

1974

Grand Ole Opry Moves to its New Home

In 1974, after decades at the Ryman Auditorium, the Grand Ole Opry found a new permanent home at the Grand Ole Opry House, a state-of-the-art venue designed specifically for the show. The move marked a significant milestone for the Opry, as it allowed for larger audiences and improved technical capabilities. With the move, the phrase 'Tune into Opry' took on a new meaning, symbolizing not only listening to the radio show but also attending live performances at the newly constructed venue.

1974

The Grand Ole Opry House

The year 1974 witnessed the inauguration of the Grand Ole Opry House, a dedicated venue for the iconic radio show. Previously, the show had moved around various locations, but now it found a permanent home in Nashville, Tennessee. The Grand Ole Opry House became a symbol of country music and attracted numerous fans from around the world. 'Tune into Opry' became synonymous with experiencing the magic of live performances at this legendary venue.

1944

The Opry Moves to the Ryman Auditorium

In 1943, the 'Grand Ole Opry' outgrew its original venue and moved to the historic Ryman Auditorium. The Ryman Auditorium, a former tabernacle, provided a larger and more prestigious setting for the popular radio show. With the move, the 'Grand Ole Opry' reached even more listeners and solidified its status as a must-attend event for country music enthusiasts. The association of 'Tune into Opry' with the show became even stronger, as fans eagerly awaited the weekly broadcasts from the Ryman.

1940s

Expansion to National Audience

During the 1940s, the Grand Ole Opry gained national recognition through the power of radio. As more and more people across the country tuned in to listen to the show, 'Tune into Opry' became a rallying cry for country music enthusiasts, signaling the start of an evening filled with captivating performances.

1945

The Opry Moves to the Ryman Auditorium

In 1943, the Grand Ole Opry moved to the Ryman Auditorium, a historic venue located in downtown Nashville. The Ryman's exceptional acoustics and rich history provided a perfect home for the Opry. This move further solidified the association of the phrase 'tune into Opry' with the radio broadcast of the show.

1943

Grand Ole Opry House Opens

In 1943, the Grand Ole Opry found a permanent home with the opening of the Grand Ole Opry House. This new venue allowed the show to expand its audience and attract even more talented musicians. 'Tune into opry' became synonymous with experiencing the magic of the Opry from the comfort of one's home.

Present

Continued Tradition and Cultural Impact

Today, the phrase 'Tune into Opry' continues to hold cultural significance. It represents the act of immersing oneself in the rich history and legendary performances of the Grand Ole Opry. Whether listening to the radio show, watching televised broadcasts, or attending live events, people from all walks of life tune into Opry to connect with the heart and soul of country music. The phrase has become an integral part of the country music lexicon, capturing the enduring legacy of this iconic institution.

1960s

Television Broadcasts and Popularization

In the 1960s, the Grand Ole Opry started television broadcasts, allowing not only to tune in to the radio but also to 'tune in' visually. This expansion into television brought the Opry into the living rooms of millions of households, cementing 'Tune into Opry' as a catchphrase that signified a night of exceptional country music and entertainment.

1993

The Grand Ole Opry on Television

In 1993, the Grand Ole Opry expanded its reach to television. The show began to be televised regularly, allowing even more people to experience the magic of the Opry. With the introduction of TV broadcasts, the term 'tune into Opry' took on a new dimension, as fans could now enjoy the performances visually from the comfort of their homes.

1974

The Opry Finds a Permanent Home

After several years of success at the Ryman Auditorium, the 'Grand Ole Opry' finally found a permanent home in 1974. The show moved to the newly built Grand Ole Opry House, a state-of-the-art venue designed specifically for the beloved radio program. The move allowed for larger audiences and enhanced production capabilities. 'Tune into Opry' continued to be a rallying call for country music fans worldwide, as the show reached an even wider audience through television and internet broadcasts.

1974

Grand Ole Opry Moves to a New Venue

As the Grand Ole Opry grew in popularity, it outgrew the Opry House and relocated to a larger venue in 1974. The move allowed for bigger audiences and modernized facilities. People continued to 'tune into opry' to enjoy the captivating performances and the rich history of country music.

1974

The Opry Moves to the Grand Ole Opry House

In 1974, the Grand Ole Opry relocated to its current home, the Grand Ole Opry House. The new venue was specifically designed to suit the needs of the Opry and its growing audience. The move to the Grand Ole Opry House solidified the show's long-standing tradition and further ingrained the phrase 'tune into Opry' into the cultural lexicon.

Present

The Enduring Legacy of 'Tune into Opry'

Today, 'tune into Opry' remains a beloved phrase that captures the excitement and anticipation of experiencing live country music. It has become synonymous with immersing oneself in the rich history and vibrant performances of the Grand Ole Opry. Whether through traditional radio or live streaming, people from all around the world continue to 'tune into Opry' to enjoy the best of country music.

Present

Continued Legacy of 'Tune into Opry'

Today, 'tune into opry' remains a cherished phrase in American popular culture. The term signifies not only the act of listening to the Grand Ole Opry radio show but also represents the spirit and heritage of country music. It symbolizes a connection to the roots of American music and the remarkable artists who have graced the Opry stage.

Did you know?

Did you know that the current home of the Grand Ole Opry is the historic Ryman Auditorium, also known as the "Mother Church of Country Music"? The Ryman has witnessed countless legendary performances and continues to serve as a beloved venue for both the Opry and other musical events.