Vince Gill Reveals the Grand Ole Opry’s No. 1 Song of All Time — And Delivers a Stunning Performance
For nearly a century, the Grand Ole Opry has been considered the beating heart of country music. Generations of artists have walked across its famous stage, from legends like Hank Williams and Patsy Cline to today’s stars such as Carrie Underwood and Chris Stapleton. With such a rich musical legacy, it’s no surprise that the Opry recently decided to celebrate its history by asking fans a simple—but impossible—question: What is the greatest Opry song of all time?
After weeks of voting, thousands of fan submissions, and plenty of spirited debate, the results were finally tallied. To make the moment even more special, the Opry invited one of country music’s most beloved voices, Vince Gill, to unveil the winning song in front of a live audience. What followed was a heartfelt tribute to the roots of country music—and a performance that left fans emotional and cheering on their feet.
A Celebration of the Opry’s Timeless Legacy
The voting campaign was designed as a way to connect country music lovers with the Opry’s legacy, allowing fans from around the world to honor the songs that shaped their lives. Fans were encouraged to think not only about chart-toppers, but also about songs that reflected the Opry spirit: storytelling, community, tradition, and authenticity.
Entries poured in through social media, the Opry’s website, and even handwritten letters from longtime listeners who have followed the show for decades. The diversity of votes reflected the Opry’s wide-reaching influence—everything from bluegrass standards to gospel favorites appeared on the list.
Still, one song rose above the rest: “I Will Always Love You” by Dolly Parton.
The No. 1 Pick: A Song That Transcends Generations
When Vince Gill stepped onto the Opry stage to reveal the winning song, the audience was already buzzing with anticipation. Some expected a classic like “He Stopped Loving Her Today,” while others predicted “Crazy,” “Stand By Your Man,” or “Ring of Fire.” But when Gill finally announced Dolly Parton’s iconic ballad as the top choice, the crowd erupted in applause.
Released in 1974, “I Will Always Love You” is one of the most enduring songs in music history. It was written by Dolly Parton as a goodbye letter to her longtime mentor and musical partner, Porter Wagoner. While the song has been covered countless times—and famously turned into a global pop phenomenon by Whitney Houston—the original version remains a cornerstone of country music storytelling.
Choosing this song as the greatest in Opry history felt fitting. Not only has Dolly been an Opry member for more than 50 years, but the song itself represents the heartfelt emotion, honest songwriting, and enduring strength of the genre.
Vince Gill’s Emotional Performance
After revealing the winning pick, Vince Gill did what he does best: he stepped up to the microphone and delivered a performance that honored both Dolly’s songwriting and the Opry’s legacy. Accompanied only by his guitar, Gill’s rendition was soft, warm, and deeply emotional—reminding the audience why he is considered one of the finest vocalists in country music.
As he sang the familiar lyrics, the entire room fell silent. Fans later described the moment as “spiritual,” “goosebump-inducing,” and “one of the best Opry tributes ever.” Gill’s voice carried a sincerity that made the song feel new again, even after nearly fifty years of performances and recordings.
By the final line, the crowd rose to give Gill a standing ovation. Many in the audience wiped away tears. It was not just a performance—it was a reminder of the power that simple, heartfelt music can have.
A Tribute to Dolly Parton
Following the performance, the Opry shared a message from Dolly Parton herself, expressing gratitude for the fans’ choice and offering her usual blend of humor and warmth. She thanked Vince Gill for performing the song, adding that his voice “could make a grocery list sound like poetry.”
For fans, seeing Dolly’s timeless ballad crowned as the greatest Opry song felt like a tribute to both the past and the future of country music. It acknowledged the artists who paved the way, the fans who continue to support them, and the ever-evolving spirit that keeps the Opry stage alive.
Why This Moment Matters
The Grand Ole Opry has never been just a concert—it is a tradition, a community, and a living museum of American music. The fan poll and Vince Gill’s performance served as a reminder of the Opry’s role in preserving the soul of country music. It also highlighted the emotional connection people share with these songs, whether they grew up listening to them on the radio or discovered them through modern streaming platforms.
Celebrating the greatest Opry song of all time wasn’t just about picking a winner—it was about honoring decades of songwriting, storytelling, and unforgettable voices.
A Night to Remember
As the lights dimmed and fans continued buzzing about the performance, one thing was clear: the Grand Ole Opry had created a moment that will be remembered for years to come. Vince Gill’s heartfelt tribute to Dolly Parton’s masterpiece served as a bridge between generations, proving once again that great country music never fades—it grows deeper with time.
And for the fans who cast their votes, seeing “I Will Always Love You” take the top spot was a powerful reminder of why they love the Opry in the first place: the songs, the stories, and the shared memories that bring people together.
