As excitement builds for the much-anticipated “Opry 100: A Live Celebration” airing tonight on NBC and Peacock from 8-11 p.m. ET/PT, producers are buzzing about the spectacular lineup set to honor a century of country music history. Although the show features fewer than a hundred performers, the star-studded lineup will more than make up for it over the course of the three-hour telecast.

The event is conceptualized by Silent House, the creative masterminds behind mega-tours like Taylor Swift's Eras Tour. With Emmy award-winning producers such as Baz Halpin, Mark Bracco, Linda Gierahn, R.A. Clark, and Steve Buchanan at the helm, viewers can expect a production filled with emotional tributes and groundbreaking performances.

“This isn’t just for country music fans; it’s for anyone who appreciates great music,” Bracco emphasized, highlighting that the show features iconic songs from the American Songbook that have crossed over into mainstream hits. “There’s an immense universe of music that will resonate with various audiences,” he added.

Featured Performances

Leading up to the show, producers revealed a few featured performances. With over 20 scheduled acts, the format leans heavily on musical showcases rather than awards, making it a unique experience for viewers. Among the performances, country icons will pay tribute to their heroes: - Reba McEntire honors Patsy Cline and Loretta Lynn, - Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood celebrate George Jones and Tammy Wynette, - Jelly Roll and Ashley McBryde pay homage to Johnny Cash and June Carter. Additionally, Carly Pearce will recognize Dolly Parton, while Keith Urban, Carrie Underwood, and Kelsea Ballerini will honor stylized legends such as Crystal Gayle, Randy Travis, and Barbara Mandrell. Excitingly, these honored artists will be present, watching their tributes live—a deeply meaningful experience for both the performers and the audience.

Not one to shy away from representing all facets of country music, Gierahn disclosed that The War and Treaty will lead a heartfelt tribute to the genre’s roots and gospel influences with special guests, including Amy Grant. There will also be an invigorating bluegrass segment featuring Alison Krauss and Union Station, celebrating the diverse elements of country music spanning generations.

Nostalgia and New Collaborations

An exciting highlight includes a '90s music jam session featuring Blake Shelton as the host alongside Clint Black and Trace Adkins, sure to evoke nostalgia among long-time fans. In a delightful twist, Post Malone will join in the festivities performing a fun duet of Travis Tritt’s classic “T-R-O-U-B-L-E” during rehearsals, promoting an inclusive atmosphere of joy and celebration.

Preparing for a mix of nostalgia and modernity, some performers will take the stage for multiple songs, showcasing their versatility. For instance, while Keith Urban pays tribute to Crystal Gayle’s “Don’t It Make My Brown Eyes Blue,” he will also perform one of his own chart-topping hits.

Emotional Highlights

Interestingly, Eric Church’s performance remains under wraps, but projections suggest an emotive original piece, one deeply personal to Church’s history with the Opry. “It’s a song tied to an emotional event for him,” said Bracco, hinting at the thought-provoking depth of Church’s contribution.

As for the show’s In Memoriam segment, celebrating a hundred years of artists’ legacies is no small feat. Vince Gill will grace the audience with “Go Rest High on That Mountain” in what promises to be a powerful tribute, resonating with viewers on an emotional level.

Unique Production Elements

Segments of the show will be broadcast live from the Opry House, while selected performances were pre-recorded at the historic Ryman Auditorium, ensuring a smoother transition between acts during the live show. This combination of locations provides a remarkable visual backdrop, with the Ryman’s classic beauty contrasting with the modern production values of the Opry House, adding to the overall spectacle of the night.

Bracco remarked, “It’s about telling the story of the Opry—its history, its influences, and how it has grown over a hundred years. We’re making sure each performance has its own unique visual storytelling.”

Fans of country music and beyond are in for a celebratory night filled with laughter, memories, and heartfelt moments. This celebration not only honors the musicians who shaped the genre but also recognizes the collective passion of fans and those behind the scenes who have dedicated their lives to keeping the spirit of country music alive.

With all this in store, “Opry 100: A Live Celebration” promises to be an unforgettable night that resonates through the ages. Don’t miss your chance to join in the celebration!