Welcome to Coffee, Country & Cody, Megan Alexander!

August 3, 2020 By Amanda Cannon In Articles, Coffee, Country & Cody, Updates /  

NEWS

Megan Alexander Join WSM Radio as Newest Member of “Coffee, Country & Cody”

National News Correspondent Signs on to Famed Morning Show as Entertainment Reporter

Posted August 3, 2020

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – 650 AM WSM announced today Megan Alexander is coming on board as the newest cast member on its radio and television show “Coffee, Country & Cody” alongside Bill Cody and Charlie Mattos. Alexander is set to join the team as the show’s Entertainment Reporter beginning this morning from 7 to 10 a.m.

An Emmy-nominated national news correspondent, Alexander brings with her years of experience on the longest-running syndicated national news magazine television show Inside Edition, covering major award shows, 9 Super Bowls, interviewing presidents and breaking national news stories. She has taken on a variety of roles throughout her career including host, reporter, author, actress and speaker.

Alexander said, “I am beyond thrilled to join the legendary WSM’s ‘Coffee, Country & Cody’ and I look forward to waking up viewers everyday with the show and chat about all things country music! Don’t be surprised if you see my favorite Starbucks drink – an iced coconut milk latte – frequently by my side.”

WSM Director of Content and Programming J. Patrick Tinnell said, “What a win for WSM to add Megan Alexander to ‘Coffee, Country & Cody!’ Megan will be such a treat for our radio and Circle TV audience. Everyone will want to start their day with Bill, Charlie and Megan.”

As a popular keynote speaker on the topics of faith and work, Alexander hosts the Inspirational Country Music Awards each year. Fans may also recognize her from her previous role in the ABC primetime drama “NASHVILLE.” Alexander serves as a member of the Board of Trustees for the Hugh O’Brian Youth Foundation. She shares her favorite interviews of all time are Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton.

Alexander can be reached at meganalexander@wsmonline.com.

About WSM: 
650 AM WSM is the most famed country music station in the world. Each day, the station shares country, bluegrass and Americana as well as the excitement of Music City with friends in Middle Tennessee and listeners around the world. WSM debuted on Oct. 5, 1925, and less than two months later, the station would birth its most famous show (and the show that would make country music famous), the Grand Ole Opry. WSM has gone on to become a broadcasting giant and a friend to hundreds of thousands of fans. The station has won hundreds of broadcasting awards and was named Country Radio Station of the Century by “Radio & Records” in 2000. WSM’s personalities are nationally recognized figures in country music, and its listeners range from U.S. Presidents to Country Music Hall of Famers, to artists climbing the charts toward their first number one hit. You never know when a famous listener might drop in for a visit or to take the studio’s reigns for a while. For more information, visit wsmonline.com.

About Ryman Hospitality Properties: 
Ryman Hospitality Properties, Inc. (NYSE: RHP) is a leading lodging and hospitality real estate investment trust that specializes in upscale convention center resorts and country music entertainment experiences. The Company’s core holdings* include a network of five of the top 10 largest non-gaming convention center hotels in the United States based on total indoor meeting space. These convention center resorts operate under the Gaylord Hotels brand and are managed by Marriott International. The Company also owns two adjacent ancillary hotels and a small number of attractions managed by Marriott International for a combined total of 10,110 rooms and more than 2.7 million square feet of total indoor and outdoor meeting space in top convention and leisure destinations across the country. The Company’s Entertainment segment includes a growing collection of iconic and emerging country music brands, including the Grand Ole Opry; Ryman Auditorium; WSM 650 AM; Ole Red and Circle, a country lifestyle media network the Company owns in a joint venture with Gray Television. The Company operates its Entertainment segment as part of a taxable REIT subsidiary.

*The Company is the sole owner of Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center; Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center; Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center; and Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center. It is the majority owner and managing member of the joint venture that owns Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center.

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Media Contacts: 
Shannon Sullivan | Alyson Stokes
Ryman Hospitality Properties
Ssullivan@rymanhp.com | Astokes@rymanhp.com
615-316-6727

Monday – Friday, 5:30am – 10am

Nothing gets a morning started better than “Coffee, Country and Cody.” The show’s namesake is Country Music Disc Jockey Hall of Famer and affable television personality Bill Cody. Bill’s producer/sidekick/sports guy/fellow brilliant conversationalist is Charlie Mattos. Bill and Charlie are joined by Jo Smith who brings all things entertainment to the table. Together, Bill, Charlie, and Jo start every weekday off with great music—country, bluegrass, Americana, Opry cuts, and live studio guests—, the latest news, entertaining features, and lively talk about everything from A (award shows) to Z (zoology). A cup of joe has never been this much fun! Now you can watch all the fun on Circle Television! Visit CirclePlus.com to check your local listings.

LISTEN LIVE
PODCAST
DOWNLOAD APP

Upcoming In-Studio Guests

LIVE television broadcast each morning on CIRCLE!

Check back later for an updated guest list!

Bill Cody

Bill Cody’s nationally & internationally known voice has been heard over the air waves for 45 years.  A 2008 inductee into the Country Music Disc Jockey Hall of Fame. Bill is in his 22nd year as morning show host of WSM’s “Coffee, Country & Cody” & is a Grand Ole Opry announcer/host.

He has multiple nominations for CMA, ACM & Billboard awards. Bill’s radio syndication, television, voice over  & movie credits include: “American Saturday Night: Live from the Grand Ole Opry”, GAC TV’s “Master Series” & the network’s specials, “Tennessee’s Wildside” on PBS, Ray Stevens’ Nashville (RFD), The Nashville Network (TNN), Bill Cody’s Classic Country Weekend, Nashville Record Review, Country’s Most Wanted, The Country Music Hall of Fame, The Music City Walk of Fame, Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame, Ryman Auditorium, Willie’s Roadhouse on Sirius/XM Satellite Radio, United Airlines In-Flight country programming also heard aboard Air Force 1 & 2.  

Married to his high school sweetheart, Rebecca, for 35 years. They have 3 children and live near Cross Plains, TN.

CONNECT WITH BILL

Charlie Mattos

Born just outside Providence, RI in October of 1963, Charlie is not only the “Resident Yankee” on the WSM staff; shockingly he’s the only “Portuguese” staff member as well!  A proud member of “Coffee, Country & Cody” since 2004, Charlie and his wife Renee’ live near Nolensville and are the proud parents of 2 year old Jackson and a 14 year old Pug named “Allie.”  

Charlie’s a 30 year radio veteran with stints at WNWS radio in Miami and WLAC radio in Nashville and is a 1985 alum of the University of Miami. He’s also the longtime voice of Vanderbilt Women’s Basketball.

Charlie loves the Boston Red Sox, English Premier League Soccer, the music of Mary-Chapin Carpenter, Bill Clinton, the writing of John Steinbeck & Apple Computers.

CONNECT WITH CHARLIE

Megan Alexander

Megan Alexander is an Emmy nominated national news correspondent. She wears a variety of hats, including host, reporter, author, actress and speaker. Megan works as a correspondent on the longest-running syndicated national news magazine television show Inside Edition, covering all the major awards shows, 9 Super Bowls, interviewing Presidents and breaking national news stories. For the 2015/2016 seasons, Megan was a Special Correspondent for CBS Television covering “Thursday Night Football”.  As an actress, she has appeared in the ABC primetime drama “Nashville”, CMT’s “Still the King”, the BET network’s “Back to the Goode Life” and the feature films “God’s Not Dead 3”, “Redeemed” “Heartbeats” and “Space Warriors”. One of her first acting gigs was appearing in Josh Turner’s music video for “What it Ain’t”.

CONNECT WITH MEGAN

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Coffee, Country & Cody on CIRCLE – WSM News

January 8, 2020 By Nicole Judd In Articles, Coffee, Country & Cody /  

CIRCLE ANNOUNCES THREE-HOUR LIVE WEEKDAY BROADCAST 
COFFEE, COUNTRY & CODY
HOSTED BY DJ HALL OF FAMER, BILL CODY, ALONG WITH CHARLIE MATTOS AND JO SMITH

 

NASHVILLE, Tenn., January 8, 2020 –  Circle, the new country music and lifestyle television network that went on the air January 1, has launched a three-hour live morning show that features WSM-AM’s popular Coffee, Country & Cody, hosted by Country Music Disc Jockey Hall of Fame Inductee and television personality Bill Cody.

Cody is also a regular announcer on the Grand Ole Opry. With Cody each weekday is his longtime show partner Charlie Mattos.  They are joined by new entertainment correspondent Jo Smith, a Vanderbilt University graduate and former Sony recording artist.

Cody and his team start every weekday off with great music—country, bluegrass, Americana, Opry cuts, live studio guests, the latest news, entertaining features, social media interaction, lively talk and some surprises. The inaugural TV broadcast featured Country Music Hall of Famer Vince Gill.

Coffee, Country & Cody airs LIVE Monday – Friday, 7–10 a.m. CT/ 8–11 am ET. It will continue to be heard on WSM-AM, WSMonline.com and the station’s mobile app. The show is broadcast from a newly renovated studio at the Opryland Hotel.

“In my many years of hosting Coffee, Country & Cody at WSM, there have certainly been many industry firsts, unforgettable milestones and history-making moments,” said Bill Cody. “To now have the opportunity to share them with a national television audience this large is truly monumental.”

“No better way to start the day than a cup of coffee and Bill Cody,” said Drew Reifenberger, Circle general manager. “Amazing things happen on that show – from artists being asked to sign to a label to hearing one of their songs on the radio for the first time – and you never know who’s going to show up. Now, we’re able to capture some of those magical moments and share them with even more country fans on-air and through social. Artists universally love Bill, and there’s no one better to do this show.”

Circle is broadcast in markets covering more than 50 percent of U.S. TV households via an over-the-air digital multicast network and cable television providers.  Circle’s affiliates include Gray Television stations across 56 markets throughout the country as well as on stations in markets such as New York, Los Angeles, Philadelphia, Dallas-Ft. Worth, Tampa and Detroit through a separate distribution agreement with CBS Television Stations.  More distribution deals and announcements will be forthcoming. For an updated listing of Circle’s broadcast affiliates and more information about availability in your market, please visit:  www.circleallaccess.com.

Circle expects to launch a streaming premium service in Spring 2020.

Circle features original programming centered around artists and their music; hobbies; outdoor and offstage adventures; food; family; and friends. Circle will also offer entertainment news, documentaries and movies along with licensed programming and archival content.

Coffee, Country & Cody joins an initial slate of programs at launch including:

1. Opry: Beginning in February, Opry is a showcase of new live-recorded Grand Ole Opry performances each week.  In the Opry tradition, this show will be a mix of today’s top stars, up-and-comers and all-time greats.

2. Fandom: The artist-fan relationship is unlike any other. Fandom is a series that explores the impact and intimacy of the artist-fan relationship from the perspective of fans as well as some of country music’s biggest stars, like Eric Church and Zac Brown.

3. Southern Weekend: Hosted by singer and musician Natalie Stovall, each episode will highlight the best in southern living by visiting notable attractions of the South including restaurants, museums, unique stores, and music venues. Country music artists will join in along the journey and share some of their favorite places.

4. Backstage at the Opry: Peek behind-the-scenes of the Grand Ole Opry, alongside artists as they go from rehearsals to the stage – and everything in between!

5. Craig’s World: Follow Opry member and Army Veteran Craig Morgan at home and on the road as he and his tight-knit family navigate triumphs and challenges while developing businesses, writing hit songs and balancing a country music career.

6. Authentic America: Hosted by veteran TV host Nan Kelley and her Grammy-nominated husband Charlie Kelley, Authentic America takes viewers on a two-wheeled version of the classic American road trip by way of backroads and rural routes exploring some of the country’s best kept secrets – including lesser known attractions, off-the-beaten path eateries, and most interesting of all, the people who make America one of the most colorful and eclectic nations in the world.  Guests include Blake Shelton and Alabama.

7. Upstream: Join Elizabeth Cook as she invites artist guests to a new fishing location each episode. While the fishing may be good, the real catch is the conversation.  Early guests include Cam and Shooter Jennings.

8. Opry Debut: Enjoy mini follow-documentaries that chronicle the moments and emotions that artists experience leading up to the memorable career milestone every country music artist dreams of achieving – their Grand Ole Opry debut.  Debut’s include Opry NextStage 2019 picks Tennille Townes, Travis Denning and Riley Green as well as the Opry debut of Ashley McBryde.

9. The Write Stuff: Viewers get a peek inside the inspiration and creation of some of country music’s greatest songs. Join country music hit makers as they walk step-by-step – from the initial concept to the final chord – and share the key licks and lyrics that brought their stories to life.  Episodes feature Little Big Town, Old Crow Medicine Show and Travis Tritt.

10. Opry Docs: Hosted by contemporary artists like Brad Paisley, Charlie Daniels and Amy Grant, Opry Docs is a series of documentaries on country greats like Johnny Cash, Bill Monroe, George Jones and Minnie Pearl.

11. Better Half:  Meet the larger-than-life spouses of some of today’s brightest stars and find out what gives them their own star power. Featured spouses include Samantha Busch (wife of NASCAR driver Kyle Busch), Kate Moore (wife of Justin Moore) and Christina Ballard (wife of Frankie Ballard).

12. Dailey & Vincent: Join Dailey & Vincent – the world-renowned bluegrass, country and gospel duo – as they host and perform in front of a live audience along with some notable friends like Vince Gill and the Oak Ridge Boys.

13. Stand Up Nashville!: Shot before a live audience at Nashville’s legendary Zanies Comedy Club, each episode of Stand Up Nashville! features a well-known comedian host as well as four up-and-coming comedians. Laugh along with a packed Zanies’ house and the most brilliant comics the South has to offer.

14. Family Tradition: Follow the next generation of country’s legendary families as they honor their roots while forging their own path. Episodes include Sam Williams (grandson of Hank Williams and son of Hank Williams Jr.) and Ashley Campbell (daughter of Glen Campbell).

15. Phil Vassar’s Songs from the Cellar: Join country music hit-maker, Phil Vassar, as he welcomes artists, songwriters, entertainers, athletes, and wine enthusiasts into his favorite place to write songs – his wine cellar! Each episode will feature conversation and collaboration along with a shared drink. Simple in concept yet rich in content, Phil’s laid-back style and quick-witted personality brings out the best in his guests as they share entertaining stories about their interesting lives. Guests include Kelsea Ballerini, Charles Esten, Mike Tyson and Hunter Hayes.

16. Bellamy Brothers’ Honky Tonk Ranch – Chronicles country duo David and Howard Bellamy’s unusual lives, blending music stardom, vigorous road tours and ranching at their homestead in central Florida, which has been in their family for more than a century. Each episode also captures unpredictable and unforgettable moments the Bellamy Brothers encounter while on the farm and on the road. Catch appearances from their famous friends, including Blake Shelton, Tanya Tucker, Lonestar, Joe Diffie, John Schneider and many more.

Circle is also bringing back Hee Haw, the classic and long-running music and comedy sketch show, which aired from 1971 – 1993 and 1996 -1997 and featured hosts Buck Owens and Roy Clark along with country music artists like Willie Nelson, Dolly Parton and Merle Haggard.

For a preview of shows launching on Circle, click HERE.  

The Circle fan experience continues online at CircleAllAccess.com and @CircleAllAccess on all social media platforms.

Circle is a partnership between Opry Entertainment Group, a subsidiary of Ryman Hospitality Properties, Inc. (NYSE: RHP), and Gray Television, Inc. (NYSE: GTN).

For more details and to find out if Circle is available in your market, please visit www.CircleAllAccess.com.

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CIRCLE Launches on January 1 – WSM News

December 31, 2019 By Nicole Judd In Articles, Coffee, Country & Cody /  

CIRCLE LAUNCHES ON JANUARY 1 WITH 16 ORIGINAL SHOWS

New Network To Debut In More Than 50 Percent of U.S. TV Households

Planned Companion OTT (Over-The-Top) Premium Entertainment Service
Set to Launch in Late Spring 2020

 

NASHVILLE, Tenn., December 11, 2019 –  Circle, a new country music and lifestyle television network launching January 1, 2020, announced 16 original shows and two major distribution partnerships that will broadcast Circle in markets covering more than 50 percent of U.S. TV households.

Circle will be available on Gray Television stations across 56 markets throughout the country as well as on stations in markets such as New York, Los Angeles, Philadelphia, Dallas-Ft. Worth, Tampa and Detroit through a separate distribution agreement with CBS Television Stations.

“We are excited to launch the network with a fantastic slate of new, original programming that is true to Circle’s core mission,” said Drew Reifenberger, general manager of Circle Media. “These 16 shows are just the start of how we intend to bring fans closer to the artists they love, with more than a dozen additional shows in various stages of production and development.  Serving as the regular drumbeat of Circle will be our broadcasts of each week’s live Grand Ole Opry performances.”

Circle will feature original programming centered around artists and their music; hobbies; outdoor and offstage adventures; food; family; and friends. Circle will also offer entertainment news, documentaries and movies along with licensed programming and archival content.

Original programs at launch include:

  1. Opry Live: Beginning in February, Opry Live is a compilation of new live-recorded Grand Ole Opry performances that will be released each week.  In the Opry tradition, this show will be a mix of today’s top stars, up-and-comers and all-time greats.
  2. Fandom: The artist-fan relationship is unlike any other. Fandom is a series that explores the impact and intimacy of the artist-fan relationship from the perspective of fans as well as some of country music’s biggest stars, like Eric Church and Zac Brown.
  3. Bluebird Café Sessions: Each year, thousands of fans flock to see artists and songwriters at the world-famous Bluebird Café. The Bluebird Café Sessions is a viewer’s ticket in – without the line! In this series, viewers will enjoy performances and storytelling from one of Nashville’s most iconic venues.
  4. Southern Weekend: Hosted by singer and musician Natalie Stovall, each episode will highlight the best in southern living by visiting all the great attractions of the South including restaurants, museums, unique stores, and music venues. Country music artists will join in along the journey and share some of their favorite places.
  5. Backstage at the Opry: Peek behind-the-scenes of the Grand Ole Opry, alongside artists as they go from rehearsals to the stage – and everything in between!
  6. Craig’s World: Follow Opry member and Army Veteran Craig Morgan at home and on the road as he and his tight-knit family navigate triumphs and challenges while developing businesses, writing hit songs and balancing a country music career.
  7. Authentic America: Hosted by veteran TV host Nan Kelley and her Grammy-nominated husband Charlie Kelley, Authentic America takes viewers on a two-wheeled version of the classic American road trip by way of backroads and rural routes exploring some of the country’s best kept secrets – including lesser known attractions, off-the-beaten path eateries, and most interesting of all, the people who make America one of the most colorful and eclectic nations in the world.  Guests include Blake Shelton and Alabama.
  8. Upstream: Join Elizabeth Cook as she invites artist guests to a new fishing location each episode. While the fishing may be good, the real catch is the conversation.  Early guests include Cam and Shooter Jennings.
  9. Opry Debut: Enjoy mini follow-documentaries that chronicle the moments and emotions that artists experience leading up to the memorable career milestone every country music artist dreams of achieving – their Grand Ole Opry debut.  Debut’s include Opry NextStage 2019 picks Tennille Townes, Travis Denning and Riley Green as well as the Opry debut of Ashley McBryde.
  10. The Write Stuff: Viewers get a peek inside the inspiration and creation of some of country music’s greatest songs. Join country music hit makers as they walk step-by-step – from the initial concept to the final chord – and share the key licks and lyrics that brought their stories to life.  Episodes feature Little Big Town, Old Crow Medicine Show and Travis Tritt.
  11. Opry Docs: Hosted by contemporary artists like Brad Paisley, Charlie Daniels and Amy Grant, Opry Docs is a series of documentaries on country greats like Johnny Cash, Bill Monroe, George Jones and Minnie Pearl.
  12. Better Half:  Meet the larger-than-life spouses of some of today’s brightest stars and find out what gives them their own star power. Featured spouses include Samantha Busch (wife of NASCAR driver Kyle Busch), Kate Moore (wife of Justin Moore) and Christine Ballard (wife of Frankie Ballard).
  13. Dailey & Vincent: Join Dailey & Vincent – the world-renowned bluegrass, country and gospel duo – as they host and perform in front of a live audience along with some notable friends like Vince Gill and the Oak Ridge Boys.
  14. Stand Up Nashville!: Shot before a live audience at Nashville’s legendary Zanies Comedy Club, each episode of Stand Up Nashville! features a well-known comedian host as well as four up-and-coming comedians. Laugh along with a packed Zanies’ house and the most brilliant comics the South has to offer.
  15. Family Traditions: Follow the next generation of country’s legendary families as they honor their roots while forging their own path. Episodes include Sam Williams (grandson of Hank Williams and son of Hank Williams Jr.) and Ashley Campbell (daughter of Glen Campbell).
  16. Phil Vassar’s Songs from the Cellar: Join country music hit-maker, Phil Vassar, as he welcomes artists, songwriters, entertainers, athletes, and wine enthusiasts into his favorite place to write songs – his wine cellar! Each episode will feature conversation and collaboration along with a shared drink. Simple in concept yet rich in content, Phil’s laid-back style and quick-witted personality brings out the best in his guests as they share entertaining stories about their interesting lives. Guests include Kelsea Ballerini, Charles Esten, Mike Tyson and Hunter Hayes.

 

Beginning at launch, Circle will be bringing back Hee Haw, the classic and long-running music and comedy sketch show, which aired from 1971 – 1993 and 1996 -1997 and featured hosts Buck Owens and Roy Clark along with country music artists like Willie Nelson, Dolly Parton and Merle Haggard.

The Circle fan experience continues online at CircleAllAccess.com and @CircleAllAccess on all social media platforms.  Follow @CircleAllAccess all December long for contests, giveaways, and exclusive content previews.

Circle is a partnership between Opry Entertainment Group, a subsidiary of Ryman Hospitality Properties, Inc. (NYSE: RHP), and Gray Television, Inc. (NYSE: GTN).

For more details and to find out if Circle is available in your market, please visit www.CircleAllAccess.com.

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Opry Nashville Flips To Dolly Radio – WSM News

September 5, 2019 By Nicole Judd In Articles, Events /  

GRAND OLE OPRY HOUSE TO HOST EXCLUSIVE DOLLY PARTON EXHIBIT “Dolly: My Opry Memories”

Exhibit To Run September 3 – October 31
in Celebration of Dolly Parton’s 50th Opry Anniversary

Parton Will Perform on Two Sold-Out Opry Shows Oct. 12
To Cap Off An Event-Filled DOLLY WEEK 

August 20, 2019 – NASHVILLE, TN – In celebration of Dolly Parton’s 50th anniversary as a Grand Ole Opry member, the Opry House will host “Dolly: My Opry Memories”- an exclusive exhibit featuring 24 wardrobe pieces the internationally-known country music icon has worn on the Opry stage and at events held at the Ryman Auditorium over the last 50 years.

Among Parton’s fashions to be featured:

  • Dress worn on the evening of her Opry induction (1969)
  • Gown worn for a duet with fellow Opry member Vince Gill on her monster smash “I Will Always Love You” (1995)
  • Ensemble worn during a surprise Opry appearance to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Reba McEntire’s Opry debut (2017)

Also included in the exhibit in the Opry House’s historic Studio A are exclusive videos of Parton recounting some of her favorite Opry memories along with rarely seen performance clips spanning her five decades of Opry membership. The limited-time-only exhibit was curated and designed to celebrate Parton’s milestone anniversary and will tell the storied career of one of the Opry’s greatest global ambassadors.

Tickets for the “Dolly: My Opry Memories”  exhibit are $12 when guests add it on to the purchase of an Opry backstage tour. Exhibit-only tickets are $17. Packages and tickets will go on sale August 21 at 10 am at www.opry.com. Please check opry.com for available tour times.

As part of Parton’s 50th Opry anniversary celebration, flagship station WSM will flip its Opry Nashville streaming channel to “Dolly Radio” to coincide with the exhibit. The 24/7 “all things Dolly stream” will feature the music legend’s many hits from her catalog of over 3000 songs, past Opry performances, archived interviews, special features from fellow artists, and much more. Fans will be able to access “Dolly Radio” 24/7 via WSMonline.com and the station’s free mobile app.

In celebration of Parton’s 50th Anniversary as an Opry member, The Opry Shop—also located at the Opry House– will feature a unique collection of eleven custom-designed items for women, men and children celebrating the milestone anniversary. A special Dolly Parton Queen of Country 50th Anniversary graphic was created by Opry Entertainment Product Development Manager Molly Brooks, who was inspired by a Parton photograph captured by longtime Opry photographer Les Leverett.

In June, the Opry premiered a new immersive film experience featuring video hosts Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood and showcasing more than 100 Opry artists, Parton included. The film shown in the Opry House’s new Circle Room opens the Opry’s daytime backstage tour.

On January 4, 1969, Dolly Parton was fresh off the release of her first solo album released on RCA Records Nashville, the now-seminal Just Because I’m A Woman, and on that date the singer-songwriter received the biggest accomplishment of her then-young career: being inducted as a Grand Ole Opry member. Fifty years later, Parton has achieved nearly every honor and accolade an entertainer can receive, and she is cemented as the female Country artist with the most Billboard Top 20 hits according to Guinness World Records.

The global superstar will perform on two sold-out shows on Saturday, October 12, 2019, capping a week-long celebration of Parton’s impact on music and the Opry, dubbed Dolly Week 2019. Additional participating artists for Dolly WeekOpry shows will be announced in the coming weeks. Tickets are on sale now at www.opry.com, with every ticket purchaser having the option to buy Parton’s Dumplin’ Original Motion Picture Soundtrack.

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Opry Labor Day Radio Special – WSM News

August 27, 2019 By Nicole Judd In Articles, Events /  

WSM RADIO TO OFFER EXCLUSIVE RADIO SPECIAL FOR LABOR DAY

Opry Labor Day Radio Special Features Luke Combs, Kelsea Ballerini, and More!

Available now for download, Nashville’s iconic WSM Radio has produced an Opry Labor Day Radio Special hosted by WSM personality and Grand Ole Opry announcer, Bill Cody. The end of summer themed holiday program features a runtime of two hours and will be available to stations for free to air throughout Labor Day Weekend 2019.

  • Interview Audio: Interview content from Carly Pearce and Grand Ole Opry members Carrie Underwood, Trace Adkins, Luke Combs and Kelsea Ballerini.
  • In Show Features: Opry inductions of Luke Combs and Kelsea Ballerini, as well as Opry NextStage artist highlights featuring Riley Green, Tenille Townes, and more.
  • Music From: Carrie Underwood, Brad Paisley, Chris Young, Blake Shelton, Eric Church, Garth Brooks, Trace Adkins, and many more.

The Opry Labor Day Radio Special features six minutes per hour of national inventory and twelve minutes per hour of affiliate inventory (all inventory is inside the show). To receive direct download information for the free program and promotional assets, contact J. Patrick via email at jpatrick@wsmradio.com.

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Happy Birthday, Randy Travis! – WSM News

April 25, 2019 By Nicole Judd In Articles, Events /  

GRAND OLE OPRY, WSMONLINE.COM TO SALUTE RANDY TRAVIS IN HONOR OF THE LEGENDARY ENTERTAINER’S 60th BIRTHDAY

New Memoir ‘Forever and Ever, Amen’ to be Released on May 14

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (April 25, 2019) — Legendary country superstar Randy Travis will make a special appearance on the Grand Ole Opry stage Saturday, May 4 to celebrate his 60th birthday. The Opry’s flagship radio station 650 AM WSM and its digital counterpart have named Travis their Artist of the Month and will mark the Opry and Country Music Hall of Fame member’s 60th with a week of special promotions and programming, including Travis’ Opry birthday appearance, beginning Monday, April 29. Forever and Ever, Amen: A Memoir of Music, Faith and Braving the Storms of Life will be released on May 14 and is available for preorder now at foreverandeveramenbook.com.

Randy Travis fans Charles Esten, Josh Turner and Charlie Worsham are all scheduled to appear on the Opry on Travis’ birthday, as is his fellow Country Music Hall of Famer Don Schlitz, who wrote or co-wrote a number of Travis’ biggest hits, including “Deeper Than The Holler,” “Forever And Ever, Amen,” “Heroes And Friends,” “On the Other Hand” and “Point Of Light.”

Travis signed a Nashville record deal in 1985, became a country music sensation with the release of his landmark album Storms Of Life, and joined the Opry in 1986. He was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2016.

Opry ticket information for the special May 4 show found HERE!

On-air listening accessible HERE!

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“We All Come Together!” – WSM News

March 27, 2019 By Nicole Judd In Articles, Events /  

“WE ALL COME TOGETHER”

FOR JOHN BERRY AND MUSIC HEALTH ALLIANCE

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (March 26, 2019) — The Country Music community is rallying in support of fellow Grammy winning artist, John Berry, who is currently undergoing chemotherapy and radiation treatments for throat cancer discovered in January. A concert, silent auction, sponsor opportunities and more will be included as ways to donate.

The concert will be held on April 23rd at City Winery at 7 pm. Tickets on sale now and are available here.

The benefit, “We All Come Together” for John Berry and Music Health Alliance, will raise money to offset the medical expenses not covered by insurance for Berry and a portion of the donations will go towards Music Health Alliance to fund financial assistance to others in the music community.

Flagship artists announced this morning by media partner WSM Radio and live-streamed on The Heartland Network on the Cody, Coffee and Country show include Trace Adkins, Tracy Lawrence and Exile with many more to be announced soon. Over 20 Artists have been confirmed along with special guests and surprises!

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WSM Presents Music City Mentors – WSM News

February 7, 2019 By Nicole Judd In Articles, Events /  

650 AM WSM ANNOUNCES

INAUGURAL MUSIC CITY MENTORS EVENT

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — 650 AM WSM will host Music City Mentors on Saturday, March 23. Pairing entertainment professionals with individuals who dream of a career in the music industry, Music City Mentors will take place at the Factory in Franklin. This inaugural event will provide music education and professional development opportunities to aspiring music professionals ages 15 and over. The day will feature 45-minute sessions focusing on songwriting, artist management, tour life, publicity and everything in between. SVP Artists Relations and Grand Ole Opry GM, Sally Williams, will give the keynote address. Attendees will conclude the day of unique professional development with “speed networking” opportunities from best-in-the-business professionals.

“It’s extremely important for us to invest in the next generation of industry professionals,” shared Chris Kulick, General Manager of 650 AM WSM. “We hope this is just the beginning of this chapter and finding new ways to mentor and engage young professionals.”

Tickets for the event are on sale HERE for $20.00 through February 15. After February 15, ticket prices will rise to $40.00. Lunch tickets will be available for purchase when registering.

“WSM has been a staple of the music community here in Franklin and there’s no better organization to connect music professionals with those aspiring to get into business,” said Ellie Westman Chin, President & CEO of Visit Franklin.

650 AM WSM’s Music City Mentors is sponsored by Durango Boots, Zaxby’s, Beacon Capital Management, Les Paul Foundation, Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism, Lyft, Silent Events, Songwriting University, and Green Iris Records/Still Working Music. Throughout the day participants will also have the opportunity to take part in a job fair featuring local venues, companies, and entertainment employers.

Attendees should plan to dress in business casual attire. Parking is provided at the Factory at Franklin.

About 650 AM WSM:

650 AM WSM’s first official broadcast day was October 5, 1925.  The station is the radio home of the Grand Ole Opry, which has been broadcast live over the WSM airwaves since its inception, as well as the 24/7 Americana streaming channel, ROUTE 650.  650 AM WSM is owned by Ryman Hospitality Properties, Inc. (NYSE:  RHP).  A weekly listing of all 650 AM WSM programming and online directory for all streaming channels can be found at wsmradio.com.

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Media Contact:

Nicole Judd | WSM Radio | 615-458-9429 | nicole@wsmradio.com

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WSM Presents Music for Kids – WSM News

October 2, 2018 By Nicole Judd In Articles, Events /  

650 AM WSM TO HOST MUSIC FOR KIDS NOVEMBER 3

Event Will Provide 1000 Free Music Lessons to Children Ages 5-16

NASHVILLE, TN (October 2, 2018) – 650 AM WSM will host its first Music for Kids event on Saturday, November 3, at Studio A in the Grand Ole Opry House from 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Presented by Springer Mountain Farms, Music for Kids is a day-long family event packed with activities designed to make music accessible and fun for youth from all over Nashville. The event centers around providing children ages 5-16 with free, age-appropriate music lessons from local professionals and opportunities to engage, learn, and get inspired in fun new ways.

Music for Kids puts real instruments into kids’ hands, encouraging them to explore and experiment with creativity and sound. Children will choose the instrument they would most like to explore– voice, violin, guitar, bass, piano, drums, mandolin, banjo and more – when they sign up online.  Registration for these free lessons are open now and must be reserved in advance via http://wsmradio.com. Lesson slots are expected to fill up fast, so early registrations are advised. A guardian is required to attend with the child receiving lessons.

Old Crow Medicine Show’s Ketch Secor will be on hand to read from his new children’s book “Lorraine”, Illustrated by renowned artist and Tennessee resident, Higgins Bond. With this story, Secor has created a sweeping, epic Americana story about the power of music and family, story and song. Secor is a parent and Grand Ole Opry member who cares deeply about education and actively supports many related causes in and around Music City, notably helping to launch the Episcopal School of Nashville in 2016.

650 AM WSM expects 500-600 children and teens to attend the free event sponsored by Zaxby’s, Nashville Parent, Guitar Center, Durango Boots, and songgame.com.  Over the course of the day, the historic radio station is expected to donate 1000 lessons to young budding musicians with an overall value of $25,000.

“Our goal with Music for Kids is to spark the musical creativity in the children of Nashville,” said Chris Kulick, 650 AM WSM general manager. “We can’t wait to get instruments in these kids’ hands and watch them get inspired. Music is such a vital part of our whole community, our local economy, and our culture as a city. Inspiring people to make and appreciate music is part of our mission and our rich history as a station.”

About 650 AM WSM:

650 AM WSM’s first official broadcast day was October 5, 1925.  The station is the radio home of the Grand Ole Opry, which has been broadcast live over the WSM airwaves since its inception, as well as the 24/7 Americana streaming channel, ROUTE 650.  650 AM WSM is owned by Ryman Hospitality Properties, Inc. (NYSE:  RHP).  A weekly listing of all 650 AM WSM programming and online directory for all streaming channels can be found at wsmradio.com.

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Media Contact:

Nicole Judd | WSM Radio | 615-458-9429 | nicole@wsmradio.com

Register your child/teen HERE!

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Medallion Ceremony Red-Carpet – Live Stream

October 22, 2017 By Nicole Judd In Live Interview, Videos /  

Our very own Bill Cody will be live on the red-carpet today, prior to the Country Music Hall of Fame Medallion Ceremony 2017.

Watch a live stream of the red-carpet arrivals starting at 3pm/ct.

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