The Grand Ole Opry is special. I doubt most country music fans would argue that it is much more than a radio show. As a lover of country music, I love the opportunity to sit in the audience of the Opry. I also love to see artists show respect for the Opry.
I’m pleased to see Kelsea Ballerini, the Opry’s newest member seems to be doing that. When she was invited to join the Opry last month, some country music fans posted on social media that it was too soon for Ballerini to become a member of the Opry. I don’t agree.
It is true that it hasn’t been that Ballerini is now the Opry’s youngest member and it hasn’t been that long since “Love Me Like You Mean It” introduces her to country music fans. For me, it’s less important how long you have been an artist than what you plan to do with your membership. I don’t want to see artists accept the Opry’s invitation simply because it is the logical next step or because they think it will further cement their name in country music fame.
A part of Opry membership is agreeing to play at least 10 shows a year. Unfortunately, some of the newer stars fail to meet that requirement. It seems like so little, considering most artists have a grueling tour schedule.
It doesn’t appear that meeting the 10 show requirement. She was invited to become a member about a month ago, officially inducted into the Opry on Tuesday and she’s scheduled to play there again next month. At that rate, she may even exceed the 10-show requirement.
Ballerini was inducted by Opry Member Carrie Underwood. She told Ballerini, “You have accomplished so much in your career, and you will undoubtedly accomplish infinite amounts more in your life. Awards, number ones, sales … this is better than all of that. This is the heart and soul of country music.” It was the same sentiment Garth Brooks shared with Underwood when he inducted her as an Opry member in 2008.
I loved how humble Ballerini was at her induction. “Grand Ole Opry, thanks for seeing something in me and for believing that I’ll always love you like I do because I do, and I will,” Ballerini said.
Clearly, the Grand Ole Opry leadership see something special in Ballerini. “We are incredibly pleased to welcome Kelsea Ballerini into the Opry family,” said Opry General Manager Sally Williams in a statement. “As evidenced by the enthusiasm of the Opry members here tonight and the fans in the crowd, Kelsea and her music are much loved. She and her fellow members who made tonight so special show that the future of both country music and the Opry are in good hands.”
Rick Amburgey is an experienced journalist and country music fan. He can be reached on Facebook at @countrymusicviews and on Twitter at @ViewsCountry.