Is the Grand Ole Opry Worth Visiting If You Don’t Like Country Music?

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It can be, because an Opry night is not one artist’s concert. The Opry says every show features eight or more artists, “from country superstars and award-winning musicians to legendary songwriters” (Opry). If one act is not your style, the next one is a few songs away. You are also sitting in a live radio broadcast on WSM, a show that has run since November 28, 1925 (Wikipedia). That is history you can watch happen even if the music is not your favorite. If you really dislike the genre, a backstage tour or a Ryman visit may suit you better than a full show.

What You Get Either Way

Part of the visit Why it may appeal beyond country fans Source
a lineup of eight or more artists variety, with short sets from each Opry
a live radio broadcast the show airs on WSM as you watch Wikipedia
the wooden circle a six-foot circle of oak cut from the Ryman's stage, set into the Opry House stage Wikipedia
the show's history Elvis Presley's only Opry appearance in 1954; the show's 31 years at the Ryman Wikipedia

Making It Work for a Non-Fan

  1. Check the lineup first on opry.com and listen to a song by each artist before you go.
  2. Pick a night with an artist you already like, even one from outside country.
  3. Try a tour instead if a full show is too much; options are in whether a Grand Ole Opry backstage tour is worth it.

The Opry’s story is in what the Grand Ole Opry is, and free music around town is in where to hear free live music in Nashville.

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