The
Grand Ole Opry is the oldest continuing
radio program[?] in the
United States. Specialising in
country music, it has been broadcast on
WSM[?] radio in
Nashville, Tennessee since
1925. It is also broadcast on television and promotes live performances both in Nashville and on the road. It came by its name after only a few weeks of broadcasting when it followed a program of traditional opera. Its producer, "Judge" George D. Hay, said "For the past hour, we have been listening to music largely from Grand Opera, but from now on we will present 'The Grand Ole Opry'."
In many ways, the artists and repetoire of the Grand Ole Opry defined American country music. Being made a member of the Grand Ole Opry is to be identified as a member of the elite of country music.