As someone who lived in Nashville, has toured behind the scenes and have been fortunate to see multiple concerts at the Opry; this audio of the last 100 years was all the even more interesting. Learning the history- even more so that I didn’t know. And feeling the nostalgic Nashville country music.

This was a great history lesson about the origins and the greats that have made the Opry the legend it is today. It was astounding to learn of all the rich and at times sad history that has shaped the music industry that is a Nashville tourist staple. The narrator’s were great. My only issue was the quotes from artists that were then again repeated in the story. It made it redundant and made me think I was going crazy that I had already listened to it

As a longtime music lover, this audiobook was a deilightful ride through the heart of country music. I went in knowing plenty about the stars—Johnny, Dolly, Loretta, Garth—but surprisingly little about the Grand Ole Opry itself.

Matt Godfrey's narration is pitch-perfect (pun intended!), guiding listeners through a century of backstage stories, iconic performances, and cultural milestones. The book covers a lot but never feels rushed, and each moment gets the spotlight it deserves.

What started as a humble fiddle show in 1925 has become the longest-running radio broadcast in U.S. history, and this book celebrates every chapter. By the end, I was moved and impressed, and immediately queued up a country playlist.

If you love music history, you should listen to this one. The Opry isn't just a stage—it's a living, breathing piece of American history.

Thank you to NetGalley and RBMedia for an advanced listener's copy; all opinions expressed in this review are my own.

That was a really interesting read, excellent not just for fans of country music but also people interested in stage performances and the evolution of live broadcast shows.

Thank you NetGalley and RBMedia for the audio ARC

4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

🎧 AUDIOBOOK REVIEW 🎧

As someone who grew up watching the Grand Ole Opry and still watches it I loved listening to the history of it. It was interesting to hear how it all started and how far it’s come to get to what it is today. I think most people know about the Grand Ole Opry and importance of it in music history. Very interesting listen. I enjoyed it.

This audiobook is a delightful experience for any devoted fan of country music. As someone who cherishes Nashville and has visited the iconic Ryman Auditorium, I found this narrative to be a remarkable exploration of the genre's history, articulated through the voices of those who resonate deeply with anyone raised on the melodies of fiddles, guitars, and the tales of rural life (think Dolly, Reba, Minnie Pearl, etc). Despite being a work of nonfiction grounded in factual history and drawing from numerous autobiographies and memoirs, it remains engaging and far from mundane.

The author weaves anecdotes and personal stories, painting vivid pictures of legendary artists and the pivotal moments that shaped their careers. Each chapter unfolds like a song in itself, with highs and lows, triumphs and tribulations, echoing the heartfelt essence of country music. The audiobook's narration enhances this experience, capturing the warmth and authenticity of the genre, making listeners feel as though they are right there in the heart of a small-town dance hall or a bustling honky-tonk. Whether you're a lifelong aficionado or new to the twang and spirit of country, this audiobook invites you to tap your feet, hum along, and appreciate the rich tapestry of stories that define this beloved musical tradition.