The Grand Ole Opry celebrated Bill Anderson on his 65th Opry anniversary. Anderson is the longest-serving member and the first artist in the 100-year history of the Opry to mark 65 years. Anderson was officially inducted as a member on the Opry on July 15, 1961.
Anderson received congratulations throughout the evening including a video message from his friends and fellow Opry members Dolly Parton, Garth Brooks, Brad Paisley, Carly Pearce, Steve Wariner and many more. His longtime friend and Opry member Lorrie Morgan presented him with a gift from the Opry, a European cut diamond and blue sapphire ring. Blue sapphire is the anniversary stone for 65 years. After the show, Anderson celebrated backstage in Studio A with his family, friends and fellow Opry members.
“The Opry is the home of country music, and thankfully for 65 years now the show has been home to Whisperin’ Bill Anderson,” said Opry Executive Producer Dan Rogers. “We’re so thankful that through all the stages of his career—all the hits, all the songwriting successes, all the TV appearances, all the tour dates, and more, Bill has always come home to this Opry he loves. We’re so honored, we’re so proud, and we’re looking forward to the next 65.”
