Upcoming Opry Debuts: Watch Rising Stars Dreams Become Reality
BY LANE VAUGHN
An Opry debut is an exciting milestone many artists call one of the highlights of their careers. The circle of wood on the Opry stage, taken from the Ryman, connects the past, present, and future of county music, and stepping into if for the first time can feel like something sacred.
Whether it’s a genre-crossing artist like Ringo Starr or Sabrina Carpenter, or a rising country newcomer like Lanie Gardner or Hudson Westbrook, every Opry debut is special. So, sometimes, we like to make the invitation special, too.
Several exciting country up-and-comers are set to make their Opry debuts soon. Take a look at the moments they received their invitations, and mark your calendars to witness one of these milestone moments for yourself.
VINCE GILL (“VINNY G”) INVITES BENNY G. OVER THE PHONE
Long Island-based rising star Benny G. picked up the phone thinking it was just a regular interview…turns out his hero, Vince Gill (or “Vinny G.”) had an important question for him. Vinny and Benny will both be stepping into the circle on April 18th. There’s still time to get tickets to see this young, soulful performer hit the Opry stage for the first time alongside one of the greats.
MAGGIE ROSE INVITES LANDON BRYANT
Comedian and digital entertainer Landon Bryant, better known as @landontalks, is known for his Southern stories and quick-witted takes on country life. Opry performer Maggie Rose invited him to join her on the lineup, continuing the Opry’s long-standing Comedy tradition. In his post, Landon said, “The Opry was never on my list of dreams because I didn’t know it was a dream I could have. I can’t wait to step into that circle.” Tell your mama ‘n them to come see Landon on April 22nd!
MARTY STUART INVITES WYATT MCCUBBIN
“You’re my favorite person I’ve ever written with…period.” Just after Marty Stuart said these words, he invited hitmaker Wyatt McCubbin to bring his songs to the circle. The comments were flooded with congratulations from artists like Lainey Wilson, Emily Ann Roberts, Jake Worthington, and more—many of whom McCubbin has written with. Named a Top 100 Songwriter by Music Row Magazine in 2024 and 2025, we can’t wait to see what he’s got in store on May 12th, with his friend Marty right there on stage with him. Don’t miss it!
LUKE BRYAN INVITES ZACH JOHN KING
Proclaiming himself as the “deliverer of good news,” Luke Bryan surprised his tour opener Zach John King with an invitation to play the Opry. “This one’s for my grandad,” King said in the comments. While his debut was originally scheduled for January, Nashville’s unexpected winter weather had other plans. A new date has been set for May 23, so that King’s whole family can be there to see him step into the circle for the first time.
HARDY HAS A BIRTHDAY SURPRISE FOR MCCOY MOORE
In front of a sold-out Knoxville crowd, Hardy brought the up-and-comer out onstage to celebrate his 25th birthday. What McCoy didn’t know was that Hardy had a special birthday present up his sleeve – an invitation to play the Opry. The post was met with support from other young artists and songwriters including Wyatt McCubbin. Grab the tissues for this one… and come see him on May 26!
BONUS: LAINEY WILSON INVITES TRANNIE ANDERSON WITH A SONG
Hit songwriter Trannie Anderson—known for penning tracks like “Heart Like a Truck” and “Whirlwind” with Lainey Wilson—made her Opry debut earlier this year (at 8 months pregnant!) Although the show has passed, the moment was too special not to share.
On the road, Lainey picked up a guitar during a writing session and sang, “We are all so proud of you / Trannie, you’re making your Opry debut.”
Just a week earlier, on a visit to the Opry, Trannie had said, “Someday I’m going to play here.” Her Opry debut dream came true on January 17, and just a few weeks later, on February 6, her son Archer made his debut into the world. Watch the recap of her unforgettable night.
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