The Grand Ole Opry celebrated its 100th anniversary in spectacular fashion on March 19, 2025, with a star-studded event titled Opry 100: A Live Celebration. The night was filled with memorable performances, heartfelt tributes, and a deep appreciation for the legends who helped shape country music. Among the standout moments was Keith Urban’s moving tribute to Crystal Gayle, where he performed her timeless hit, Don't It Make My Brown Eyes Blue, in honor of her incredible career.
A Tribute to a Country Icon
Crystal Gayle, best known for her smooth vocals and crossover country-pop hits, has been a beloved figure in country music for decades. As the younger sister of the late Loretta Lynn, Gayle carved her own path in the industry with a unique sound that resonated with audiences worldwide. Her song Don't It Make My Brown Eyes Blue became an international hit and remains one of the most recognizable country songs of all time.
During the Opry 100 event, Keith Urban took to the stage to pay homage to Gayle’s legacy. Dressed in his signature rock-country style, Urban delivered a heartfelt rendition of the classic song, putting his own spin on the melody while staying true to the song’s emotional depth. The audience, including Gayle herself, was visibly moved by the performance. The camera panned to her during the song, capturing a moment of appreciation and nostalgia as she smiled and teared up at the beautiful tribute.
Keith Urban’s Electrifying Performance
Urban didn’t stop at just one song. Following his tribute to Gayle, he electrified the audience with his own hit, Wasted Time. The high-energy performance was a perfect contrast to the emotional ballad that preceded it, demonstrating Urban’s versatility as a performer. With the crowd on their feet, he strummed his guitar with signature flair, proving once again why he remains one of the most dynamic entertainers in country music.
A Night of Unforgettable Moments
The Opry 100: A Live Celebration event was hosted by Blake Shelton and featured an array of country music’s biggest names, including Reba McEntire, Kelsea Ballerini, Brad Paisley, and Luke Combs. Each artist took the stage to honor the Grand Ole Opry’s rich history, performing classic hits and new fan favorites. The night served as a testament to the impact of the Opry and its role in shaping the genre over the past century.
The event was broadcast live on NBC and streamed on Peacock, allowing country music fans around the world to witness this historic celebration. Social media buzzed with reactions to Keith Urban’s performance, with many praising his ability to blend old and new country sounds seamlessly.
A Fitting Tribute to a Timeless Legacy
Crystal Gayle’s influence on country music is undeniable, and Keith Urban’s tribute at Opry 100 was a fitting acknowledgment of her contributions to the genre. By bringing new life to Don't It Make My Brown Eyes Blue, Urban honored not just Gayle but also the timeless nature of great country music.
As the Opry moves forward into its next century, moments like these remind us of the deep roots and enduring legacy of country music’s greatest stars. Keith Urban’s performance will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the most touching highlights of this milestone event.