Ernest made his Grand Ole Opry debut on Saturday (1.8.2022), but he is getting attention for another reason. During his set the singer/songwriter was joined by Morgan Wallen, to perform their latest duet single, “Flower Shops.” The two also had success in 2021 with Wallen’s “More Than My Hometown,” which Ernest co-wrote.
After the performance many took to social media to express their disappointment that Wallen was allowed to play at the historic Nashville venue, including fellow musician Jason Isbell. Isbell reportedly donated money from his contribution to Wallen’s album sales to NAACP, as he wrote the song, “Cover Me Up.”
Last night @opry you had a choice- either upset one guy and his “team,” or break the hearts of a legion of aspiring Black country artists. You chose wrong and I’m real sad for a lot of my friends today. Not surprised though. Just sad.
— Jason Isbell (@JasonIsbell) January 9, 2022
The Black Opry, a home for Black artists and Black fans of country, blues, folk, and Americana music, responded with a letter to the Grand Ole Opry with their concerns, and also posted to social media.
Our dreams are bigger than stages that welcome racists. Our artists deserve better than that. #theopryisover https://t.co/g7UeL0JS8L
— The Black Opry (@BlackOpry) January 9, 2022
Wallen congratulated Ernest on his Grand Ole Opry debut with an Instagram post.
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Wallen has been growing his career in country music since his first No. 1, “Whiskey Glasses,” hit Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart in 2019. His latest album Dangerous, was named Billboard’s No. 1 for the year on the all-genre Top 200 list.
Beneath the post, Ernest responded with, “A special night and im thankful u joined me. It’s gonna be a good year! Love you MO.”
Jake Owen also took to the comments on Wallen’s post to share his own congratulations.
“Well said. Well dERN,” Owen wroyte, putting a creative twist on Ernest’s name within the comment.
Owen’s comment was followed by more from his fans, with sentiments from “much love!!” to “Legends.”
Wallen will head back out on the road for his “Dangerous” tour, accompanied by Hardy and Larry Fleet, and will also have Ernest along for their spot on The Country Fest schedule on Saturday, June 8 at Clay’s Park Resort in North Lawrence, Ohio.
The Grand Ole Opry has not commented on the performance.
Fan video from Country Now / Instagram:
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