A new class is stepping into the spotlight at the Grand Ole Opry. They just announced their 2026 Opry NextStage class during a special event at the Opry House in Nashville.
This year’s artists include Alexandra Kay…Carter Faith…Emily Ann Roberts…Graham Barham…Hudson Westbrook…Jake Worthington …Tyler Braden…Vincent Mason…and Willow Avalon.
The program highlights some of the brightest rising stars in country music and gives them mentorship and performance opportunities throughout the year.
Vince Gill even stopped by to offer advice and told the group, “what’s beautiful about this place that I’ve been able to witness over the years is regardless of what your career is doing, has done or will do…they never turn their back on you at the Opry.” Wouldn’t it be nice if mainstream country radio never there backs on country artists? Maybe that’s just me.
Ella Langley also shared that being part of NextStage gave her “community” and “friendship.”
(People)