Legendary musician and multi-Grammy Award winner Ringo Starr received an extraordinary surprise last night during the first of his two sold-out headlining shows at Nashville’s historic Ryman Auditorium. Performing in support of his new country album, Look Up, Starr was invited to make his debut on the Grand Ole Opry by his longtime friend and Opry member Emmylou Harris.
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee will perform at the iconic Grand Ole Opry House on February 21 as part of the Opry’s ongoing 100th-anniversary celebration. The invitation came during Starr’s show, when Harris joined him onstage to ask if he’d return to Nashville for the momentous occasion. True to form, Starr responded with his signature humor, jokingly asking, “When is that, July?” When Harris clarified “February,” he grinned and replied, “I’d love to. It’s an honor and a pleasure. Thank you.”
“What an honor that after all the extraordinary music he has made and all the incredible history he’s been a part of, Ringo Starr will be making his Opry debut during this, the Opry’s milestone 100th year,” said Dan Rogers, Opry Executive Producer. “It’s going to be a night like no other.”
Starr’s connection to country music runs deep. Throughout his storied career, his love for the genre has shone through in songs like “Act Naturally,” “What Goes On,” and “Don’t Pass Me By.” His 1970 solo album, Beaucoups of Blues, showcased his passion for country music, while his admiration for artists like Lightnin’ Hopkins inspired dreams of moving from London to Texas as a teenager. His latest album, Look Up, was born out of a chance 2022 reunion with producer T Bone Burnett, who composed nine country-inspired tracks that reignited Starr’s love for the genre.
Starr will take the stage again tonight (Jan. 15) at the Ryman Auditorium for the second night of his Look Up tour. Fans can look forward to an unforgettable performance, with Starr bringing his unique blend of humor, history, and heartfelt music to Nashville once more.
For more information on the Grand Ole Opry’s 100th-anniversary events, tickets, and schedules, visit opry.com and follow the Opry on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.
