Jeannie Seely Dazzles Opry 50th Celebration With Replica Of 1974 Stage Outfit

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Jeannie Seely during the Grand Ole Opry’s 50th anniversary celebration. Photo: Chris Hollo for Grand Ole Opry

Jeannie Seely impressed the crowd during the Grand Ole Opry’s 50th anniversary celebration over the weekend by stepping onto the stage in a midriff-baring replica of the iconic outfit (and even the hairstyle) she first donned 50 years earlier at the Opry house’s inaugural show.

The performer borrowed some of Dolly Parton‘s design team to help re-create the retro number, which Seely rocked just as she had five decades earlier on the hallowed stage.

Pictured (L-R): Jack Greene, Jeannie Seely, Jerry Whitehurst (Piano) and Don Lacy (Drums). Photo: Les Leverett

“There’s really no way I can express my appreciation for this event!  To know the Opry finally got a home of her own, and that I have been fortunate enough to share it for 50 years, is one of the most joyful things in my life and career,” expresses Seely. “I’m also proud to tell you that, just like the family we are, my Opry sister Dolly Parton loaned me some of her finest folks to re-create my original outfit from 1974, complete with ‘secret show business’ tricks! A special thanks to Vance Nichols and Riley Reed for the magic!”

“Two thoughts,” says Opry Executive Producer Dan Rogers. “One, never dare Jeannie Seely to do anything if you have any reservations at all about her actually doing it. Two, I am absolutely certain the timeless Seely drove away from the Opry House Saturday night thinking about how she could once again steal the show when the venue turns 100 in 2074. She amazes us all.”

Designer Vance Nichols shares, “For years, I’ve cherished the friendship of Jeannie Seely. From my early days as a young adult in this town, she’s shown me kindness and offered invaluable advice. Her wisdom and generosity have shaped my path, and I owe her immeasurable gratitude. So when she proposed recreating her Opry outfit, I readily agreed—there’s nothing I wouldn’t do for Jeannie. Being her friend remains an ongoing privilege and honor.”

She performed her single, “Don’t Touch Me,” which she also sang at the opening of the Opry House in 1974, as well as crowd favorite “Who Needs You” for the special anniversary. As Seely left the stage, she was presented with an award by Opry host Mike Terry on behalf of the Opry management and staff for “The Best Dressed” of the evening, bringing the Opry crowd to its feet again.

A trailblazer throughout her career, Seely holds the distinction of having more Opry performances than any other artist, with 5,346 performances. She was only the third female in country history to receive a Grammy, fought and won the battle for women to host Opry segments and was the first female to host segments, and has been credited with changing the image of female artist wardrobes by being the first to wear a mini skirt on the Opry stage.

Lorie Hollabaugh
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