Nashville’s iconic Grand Ole Opry is gearing up for an unforgettable night on January 18, 2025, as it hosts a dual celebration that promises to captivate country music fans worldwide. The evening will mark the third annual “Opry Goes Dolly” event, honoring the legendary Dolly Parton’s 79th birthday, while also featuring the highly anticipated Opry debut of rising star Shaboozey. This special Saturday night show at the Grand Ole Opry House is set to blend reverence for a country music icon with the excitement of fresh talent stepping into the spotlight, making it a must-see event for enthusiasts of the genre.
Dolly Parton, a beloved member of the Grand Ole Opry and recently named the “Greatest Country Artist of All Time” by Billboard Magazine, will be the centerpiece of the evening’s festivities. Although she won’t be present in person, the “Opry Goes Dolly” celebration will pay tribute to her remarkable legacy with performances of her timeless hits by an impressive lineup of artists. Fans can expect a night filled with renditions of classics like “Jolene” and “9 to 5,” showcasing the enduring influence of Parton’s music across generations. The event also kicks off the Opry’s year-long “Opry 100” celebration, marking a century of the institution that has shaped country music history.
Adding to the excitement, Shaboozey, the six-time Grammy nominee behind the chart-topping hit “A Bar Song (Tipsy),” will make his Grand Ole Opry debut on the same evening. His inclusion in the lineup signals the Opry’s commitment to spotlighting new voices in country music as part of its milestone 100th year, which will feature 100 debuts throughout 2025. Shaboozey’s breakout success in 2024 has made him a household name, and his performance is expected to bring a fresh, modern energy to the hallowed stage. The pairing of Parton’s birthday tribute with Shaboozey’s debut creates a compelling narrative of tradition meeting innovation, a theme that resonates deeply with the Opry’s storied legacy.
The lineup for the evening is nothing short of stellar. Joining Shaboozey will be Opry members Bill Anderson and Rhonda Vincent, both longtime admirers of Parton’s work, alongside 2024 chart-topper Ashley Cooke and the Mississippi-born trio Chapel Hart. Each artist will bring their unique flair to the stage, performing their favorite Dolly Parton songs in a heartfelt homage to the Queen of Country. The night will also feature special activities, including a ticketed “Dolly-oke” fundraiser in the venue’s Studio A space, headlined by Chapel Hart following the main show. This event promises to be a fun, interactive way for fans to celebrate Parton’s legacy while supporting a worthy cause.
Beyond the performances, the evening will be packed with Dolly-inspired touches. Attendees can enjoy birthday treats baked using Duncan Hines’ Dolly Parton-branded mixes, handed out to Opry House tour guests while supplies last. A larger-than-life birthday card will be available for fans to sign, and a Dolly impersonator will roam Opry Plaza, offering photo opportunities. The Opry House bars will serve signature Dolly Parton-inspired drinks, and the Opry Shop will stock Parton’s music and merchandise, ensuring her presence is felt throughout the venue. These thoughtful details underscore the Opry’s dedication to making the night a full-fledged celebration of Parton’s impact.
The event also carries a charitable spirit. All proceeds from the “Dolly-oke” fundraiser will benefit the Opry Trust Fund, which provides financial assistance to members of the country music community in times of crisis. Additionally, $5 from every ticket sold for the January 18 show will be donated to Parton’s Imagination Library, a program that mails free books to children from birth to age five, regardless of family income. This initiative reflects Parton’s lifelong commitment to education and community, adding a meaningful layer to the celebration.
For those eager to attend, tickets are available through the Opry’s official channels, with options to reach out via phone at (615) 871-OPRY or online at opry.com. The combination of honoring Dolly Parton’s 79th birthday and welcoming Shaboozey to the Opry stage ensures this will be a night to remember, blending nostalgia with the promise of country music’s future. As the Grand Ole Opry embarks on its 100th year, this event sets the tone for a landmark celebration that bridges the past and present of America’s most cherished musical tradition. Fans won’t want to miss this historic evening under the bright lights of Nashville.