Author Talk: Craig Shelburne

100 Years of Grand Ole Opry

Celebrate the Grand Ole Opry's 100th anniversary with author Craig Shelburne!

Packed with spectacular photos and tributes from country music’s biggest names, 100 Years of Grand Ole Opry is a glorious, one-of-a-kind celebration. This centennial celebration showcases the beloved institution’s history through lively never-before-seen photography, as well as behind-the-scenes stories from those who have paced backstage before career-defining performances, and those who have come to know the Opry as a second home.

Since 1925, the Grand Ole Opry has left an undeniable mark on American culture. What began as an impromptu performance of old-time fiddle tunes has transformed into the longest-running radio broadcast in US history, as well as a live performance venue for millions of country music fans each year.

Widely regarded as the show that made country music famous, the Opry has played an important role in the careers of country music’s biggest stars—including Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton, Loretta Lynn, Carrie Underwood, Luke Combs, and countless others—popularizing and preserving some of the most beloved forms of American music. 

The hunger for country music has only grown in recent years, and the Grand Ole Opry stands at the center.

About the Author

​Craig Shelburne grew up in rural Nebraska watching the Grand Ole Opry on TNN. He moved to Nashville in 1994 and earned a journalism degree from Belmont University. He has written for the Bluegrass Situation, CMT.com, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, Folk Alliance International, International Bluegrass Music Association, MusicRow magazine, and many other outlets. In addition, he has produced three AMERICANAFEST music festivals for the Americana Music Association. This is his first book.

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