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Opry Debut Review

Playing the Opry is quite possibly one of the most sought-after goals for any musician who grew up steeped in bluegrass. All of our heros played it. And there’s just something legendary about a show that has never missed a broadcast since its beginnings in 1925. Combine that aspect with the performance itself being with someone who has been one of your heros since you were 3 years old — there are simply no words for this type of thing!!!!!!!

As I drove up to the backstage of the Grand Ole Opry house on Saturday, February 20, 2016, about 7 pm CST, I heard the Opry broadcast commence on the radio. I’ve listened many times, but this time it was different. I realized I was going to be on there, and with Jesse McReynolds. Several friends — all men — had inquired point-blank after I’d been asked to play the Opry, “Did you cry?” I hadn’t up to that point, but big tears started welling up when I heard that announcement and fiddle intro — the show had begun!

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The evening itself was nothing short of magical. As I walked up to the entrance, Buddy Griffin opened the door and greeted me by saying, “Welcome to the Grand Ole Opry!” When I checked in, I discovered I’d been sent beautiful flowers — from Jesse, Joy, and all the Virginia Boys! Jesse was so gracious and awesome; he is not only a living legend but a true gentleman to work with.

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For the performance, Buddy Griffin and I played twin fiddles (I played lead and Buddy played harmony)” on Jesse’s original fiddle tune, “Dixie Hoedown,” a bluegrass classic that comes to us from the Starday era of Jim & Jesse (highly recommended listening). The original cut of “Dixie Hoedown” was recorded with Vassar Clements and Jesse McReynolds on twin fiddles. When Buddy and I played it, it felt like I was almost in the record! When it finally came time to perform onstage, Jesse offered a very special introduction and announced “Dixie Hoedown,” and we took off! It was exhilarating!

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There are really no words to sum up such an event. It’s pretty much the stuff that dreams are made of, a blessing of enormous proportions. I thank the Lord for such an opportunity, a real dream-come-true!

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