BITTER SWEET, Ky. — As most of you know, country music is my “thang,” and I try to bring you something about the performers, both the famous and not-so-famous, with each column.

This time, however, I want to talk about a place where most of these artists I write about have been or would love to go.

That place is the Grand Ole Opry, perhaps the most famous country music venue in the universe. The Opry actually began as a radio show and remains the longest-running country music radio show ever, but people come to Nashville, Tenn. from all across the world to be a part of the Opry.

The beginnings date back to 1925 when the WSM Barn Dance debuted on Nov. 28. Through the years, there have been six homes to the Opry; perhaps none more famous than the Ryman Auditorium, which was originally built as a church and staged the shows from 1943 until 1974 before the move was made to the current Grand Ole Opry House.

Since its beginning, any country music star who is a star has likely made their way to the Opry stage. The unique formula each show features a variety of guests including veteran country legends the current biggest names in the business. It is a mix of the members of the Opry’s “club” along with those hoping to make it big in the world of country music.

That world not only includes mainstream radio’s hit makers but also the stars of the bluegrass world. Bill Monroe was a regular on the Opry for years, and from the western swing genre through artist like the famous Riders in the Sky and many others.

In becoming a member of the Opry, an honor most musicians say is the biggest accomplishment in their careers, Opry management selects those they feel encompass all the recognized components of being in the business like career accomplishments and the ability to remain successful. But it’s not an invitation issued to the biggest names or those who sell the most records.

To me, Opry members have an aura about them that just says, “Hey I’m country.” They relate to the audiences in a special way. However they do it, that method has worked through time, and the membership list is long and diverse and pays tribute to one of the most popular music genres in the world.

The Grand Ole Opry gets a big A+ from me for not only bringing the newest in country music to the world stage but for remaining loyal to the stars whose lights have dimmed a bit but remain constant in bringing musical joy to a few hundred gazillion people every week.

You can find out more about shows and air times by going to the Opry website at www.opry.com

Bluegrass Johnson comes from a long line of country music performers and enjoys a passion for the rhythm and melody. From the hills of Kentucky, he will offer his opinions on a variety of new country music each week. Readers with questions or comments may write to Johnson in care of this publication.