At 100 years old, the Grand Ole Opry is the keeper of country music's legacy

At 100 years old, the Grand Ole Opry is the keeper of country music's legacy

One hundred years ago this week, the radio barn dance that came to be known as the Grand Ole Opry was first broadcast from Nashville. Being part of the show still matters to country artists today.

At 100 years old, the Grand Ole Opry is the keeper of country music's legacy

The ultimate symbol of the Grand Ole Opry’s longevity is carefully preserved and ever present. But the hundreds of thousands of visitors who take in the country variety show each year can’t spot it from the Grand Ole Opry House pews. They can only get a glimpse by taking the guided tour that includes an on-stage photo op at the microphone — the same one that broadcasts Opry stars’ singing and stage banter to AM radio listeners. It’s when visitor…

Critic's Pick: 'Grand Ole Opry' 100th Anniversary Shows

7 & 10 p.m. Nov. 28 at the Grand Ole Opry House