Grand Ole Opry Celebrates Rising Artists At ‘Opry NextStage Live From Texas’

The Grand Ole Opry celebrated members of its Opry NextStage Class of 2025 on Wednesday (May 7) with a sold-out “Opry NextStage Live From Texas” event held at the Lexus Box Garden at Legacy Hall. Just ahead of the 60th Annual ACM Awards, the event was hosted by Jelly Roll and featured performances from members of the Opry NextStage Class of 2025: Avery Anna, Chayce Beckham, Kaitlin Butts, Kashus Culpepper, Tigirlily Gold and Tucker Wetmore. Special guests included Riley Green (NextStage Class of 2019), Ella Langley (NextStage Class of 2024) and Priscilla Block (NextStage Class of 2021).

Since its launch in 2019, Opry NextStage artists have achieved a combined 33 No. 1 hits, spending a total of 43 weeks atop the Country Aircheck/Mediabase airplay chart. The program has introduced fans to rising stars such as Hailey Whitters, Lainey Wilson, Megan Moroney, Nate Smith, Parker McCollum, Riley Green and Tenille Townes, all of whom went on to win ACM New Male or Female Artist of the Year after their NextStage inclusion. Wilson also made history as the first Opry NextStage alum to become an Opry member.