The Grand Ole Opry is celebrating its 100th anniversary and the iconic venue is pulling out all the stops.
From special tribute shows and exciting debuts to surprise guests, the Opry is kicking off the next era of country music in style. Throughout 2025, the Opry will host a series of celebratory shows, culminating in birthday events in October and a major anniversary show on Nov. 28.
As the historic venue celebrates its centennial, here’s a look at what it takes to become a member — considered one of country music’s most prestigious honors.
100 years of the Opry: Bring country music history home with our hardcover book
Are artists paid to perform at Nashville’s Grand Ole Opry?
Yes, artists are paid to perform at the Opry. According to the venue’s website, payment is based on the AFTRA/AFM union scale.
Who decided who gets membership to Nashville’s Grand Ole Opry?
Induction into the prestigious institution is made exclusively by Opry Management.
The show’s management considers “all the standards of success in country music” which includes radio airplay, recorded music sales, touring success, industry recognition as well as the potential for continued success.
What are the requirements to be a member of Nashville’s Grand Ole Opry?
In order to be an Opry member, artists must exhibit a “musical and generational balance,” meaning a passion for country music fans and a connection to the genre’s history.
Induction also requires commitment and a willingness to make significant sacrifices to uphold that commitment.
After the Old Crow Medicine Show became the newest members of the Grand Ole Opry, they and other members of the Opry perform “Will The Circle Be Unbroken” at the Opry House on Sept. 17, 2013.
“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,” reads the Opry’s website. “The decision to bring a new act into the Opry fold is a two-pronged one, based on a combination of career accomplishment and commitment.”
Most importantly, membership to the legendary institution is based on the relationships artists foster with fans, fellow artists and the ideal of the Grand Ole Opry.
How do Grand Ole Opry members maintain membership?
In order to remain an active member of the Grand Ole Opry, artists have to perform at least 10 times each year.
Who are members of Nashville’s Grand Ole Opry?
The list of Grand Ole Opry members reflects the current landscape of country music, featuring both emerging artists and established, household names. Members include:
Diana Leyva covers trending news and service journalism for the Tennessean. Contact her at [email protected] or follow her on X at @_leyvadiana
This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Are artists paid to perform at the Grand Ole Opry? What to know
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