Opry News: Oak Ridge Boys, Bill Anderson

(L-R): Grand Ole Opry Group Pres. Steve Buchanan, Joe Bonsall, Duane Allen, Jimmy Dickens, William Lee Golden, Richard Sterban, Grand Ole Opry VP/GM Pete Fisher, Oaks Manager Jim Halsey

The Oak Ridge Boys were invited to join the Grand Ole Opry on Saturday, July 8. The legendary quartet, comprised of William Lee Golden, Joe Bonsall, Richard Sterban, and Duane Allen will be formally inducted on Saturday, August 6.

Following the Oaks’ performance of “Y’All Come Back Saloon,” longtime Opry member Jimmy Dickens surprised the group by walking onstage dressed as William Lee Golden, complete with long beard and sunglasses.

“All my life I’ve wanted to be a little bitty Oak Ridge Boy,” joked Dickens. “On August 6th, I will become the newest member of the Oak Ridge Boys, and at that time, you will become the newest members of the Grand Ole Opry!”

Joe Bonsall responded, noting that the Opry “is a brotherhood and sisterhood unlike any other.” The group closed out its set with the classic “Elvira,” later returning to the stage to join Larry Gatlin on “All the Gold In California.”

In other Opry news, Bill Anderson will celebrate his 50th Anniversary as an Opry member at a special Grand Ole Opry show Saturday, July 16 at 7 pm. Anderson initially made his Opry debut just before his 21st birthday, and became a member less than three years later.

“Beginning with classics sung by Ray Price, Lefty Frizzell, Connie Smith, and more, and continuing today with unforgettable hits by the biggest names in the business, Bill Anderson tunes have hit the country charts in each of the last seven decades,” says Opry VP/GM Pete Fisher. “Of course Bill is also known around the world for his own hit records as well as for blazing country music trails far and wide for others to follow. We look forward to celebrating with one of country music’s very best Saturday night.”