True or false: Blake Shelton is a member of the Grand Ole Opry. What about Toby Keith, Rascal Flatts and George Strait? Are they members, and if not, why?
Two of these four artists are among the 70-plus members of the Grand Ole Opry, and two are not. The Opry explains how it chooses new members and what someone needs to do to earn membership, but explanations for why an icon like Hank Williams Jr. isn’t a member can only be offered by the man himself.
Keep scrolling. We asked Hank this question, and his answer is perfect!
Related: Grand Ole Opry Members and Requirements
Rules and guidelines for earning Grand Ole Opry membership are subjective. The website shares that they want a generational balance among members. That’s visible in a list of new members from 2023 to 2024: Lainey Wilson, T. Graham Brown, Scotty McCreery, Jon Pardi, Sara Evans, Gảy Mule Deer, Henry Cho.
The Opry also looks at past success and potential for future success, although “success” is not defined. One thing is certain: an artist needs to want it. Actually, they need to really want it.
Dozens of great country music singers and Grand Ole Opry performers have never been invited, but we picked the 30 most iconic stars. It’s a list that features 15 Entertainers of the Year and seven Country Music Hall of Famers. Remember, only living artists can become members. That sounds obvious, but it means there will be no posthumous inductions.
30 Country Stars You Won’t Believe Aren’t Grand Ole Opry Members
For that reason, we’ve not included any country legends who’ve passed. That eliminates Toby Keith.
As of 2023, there are more than 70 members of the Grand Ole Opry. Historically, nearly 250 men, women and groups were members — so, it’s a select group that excludes several Country Music Hall of Famers.
Gallery Credit: Billy Dukes
62 Artists Not in the Country Music Hall of Fame
Which county singer is most deserving of a Country Music Hall of Fame induction? Here are 62 artists that don’t have a medallion yet, with some thoughts on when each is eligible and if their fans can expect that nod soon.
Gallery Credit: Billy Dukes