Welcome back to Country Music 4 Ever! One of the greatest honors in a country singer’s life is becoming a member of the “Grand Ole Opry.” It is not easy to predict who will become a member of the Opry. Obviously, things such as radio airplay, music sales, and touring success all play a part in the decision of who becomes a member. But it’s not based on who the biggest star is in Nashville. There are many big stars who are not an Opry member.

The Opry’s management team makes all definite decisions as to who becomes a member. Becoming a member often starts with a nomination from another artist who is already a member. Opry membership requires a passion for country music fans and a connection to country music’s history. It requires commitment and willingness to make sacrifices to keep your membership.

Once you are a member, you can perform or even host any show you want. You must appear consistently to keep your membership. You can have your membership taken away if the Opry feels it is necessary. Hank Williams had his taken away in 1952 because of alcohol abuse and unreliability to the Opry. Your membership expires when you die, because obviously you can’t play shows anymore. This is why Hank will never get his membership back. There have also been some other people who have lost their memberships as well.

Thanks for reading, I’ll be back soon!