Page 36 - Roy Acuff News Today

30 years ago The Kentucky Headhunters were invited to make their Grand Ole Opry debut, and even though it would be a career boost, they said no.

30 years ago The Kentucky Headhunters were invited to make their Grand Ole Opry debut, and even though it would be a career boost, they said no.

30 years ago The Kentucky Headhunters were invited to make their Grand Ole Opry debut, and even though it would be a career boost, they said no.

"This Opry thing has hit home with everybody," guitarist-singer Richard Young said before the Kentucky Headhunters take the stage in Nashville.

There was only one prize-winning teenager carrying stones big enough to say thanks, but no thanks to Roy Acuff. Only one son of Kentucky finding a light of inspiration from Bill Monroe and his Blue Grass Boys and catching a fire from Bob Marley and The Wailers. Only one progressive hippie allying with like-minded conspirators, rolling out the New Grass revolution, and then leaving the genre's torch-bearing band behind as it reached its commercial peak.

Veteran country rock outfit the Kentucky Headhunters, whose origins date back to 1968, will make their debut at Nashville's Grand Ole Opry on December 4.

Today is Tuesday, Nov. 23, the 327th day of 2021. There are 38 days left in the year.

Today is Tuesday, Nov. 23, the 327th day of 2021. There are 38 days left in the year.

Roy Acuff’s captivating vocal delivery and electrifying stage presence made him the heart and soul of one of country music’s longest running and most revered institutions, the Grand Ole Opry.

On Nov. 23, 1968, Stand By Your Man reigned in the top spot on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart.