Special Edition: The Grand Ole Opry

November 28, 2024 marks the 99th anniversary of a very famous American institution. This institution began under the name of the WSM Barn Dance. A radio show that was launched by my a man by the name of, George D. Hay. His first guest on this radio show was a 77 year-old fiddle player named uncle Jimmy Thompson, and all that man did was play fiddle tunes exactly like the one Sean open’s this episode playing (Georgia Horseshoe).

The show was broadcast from the fifth floor of the National Life & Accident Insurance Company in downtown Nashville. It outgrew its tiny studio and went to a larger space, including studio, B and C in that building. In 1941 the show became a live stage show at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville.

Why the history lesson? 
Sean Dietrich is making his fifth appearance on the Opry tonight and is sharing about his debut experience in 2023. In this moving account, he honors “Whispering” Bill Anderson and the many Opry members that make this such a special invitaiton. 

Tune in to hear Sean Dietrich on the Opry, Friday November 22, at Opry.com

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Sean Dietrich is a columnist, humorist, multi-instrumentalist, and stand-up storyteller known for his commentary on life in the American South. His work has appeared in Newsweek, Southern Living, Reader's Digest, Garden and Gun, and his column appears weekly in newspapers throughout the U.S.He has authored eighteen books and over four thousand columns. He makes appearances on the Grand Ole Opry, and his work has been featured on the Today Show.