REPORT: The most legendary country music venue is about to change hands.
The legendary Nashville music venue might soon be up for sale.
Grand Ole OpryRobert Alexander/Archive Photos/Getty Images
One of the most historic music venues in the United States could soon be changing hands, although nothing concrete has happened yet. The Grand Ole Opry, the stage founded in 1925 in Nashville, Tennessee, could potentially be sold to a new owner, according to new reports.
Ryman Hospitality Properties (RHP), which is currently the major shareholder of the Grand Ole Opry, is exploring sale opportunities.
Colin Reed, Executive Chairman of Ryman Hospitality Properties, said in a statement to NewsChannel 5, “With the rise in global popularity of country music and the increasing demand for live experiences, we have received inbound interest from a range of organizations seeking to partner with our entertainment business.”
Because of the interest, RHP decided to work with Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC to evaluate any possible deals. Reed noted, “We expect to play an integral role in the continued growth of OEG irrespective of any strategic partnerships being considered.”
The statement also made it clear that no deal has been made, and in the end, a sale might not happen.
Reed added, “We are incredibly proud of our OEG business and of our role as stewards of these historic and iconic brands, which are deeply important to the country music community and the markets we serve. We remain focused on bringing artists and audiences together through iconic live entertainment experiences.”
Only four years ago, in 2022, RHP stunned many country music fans when the company sold a 30% minority stake in the ownership of the Grand Ole Opry to Atairos and NBCUniversal. Now, the parent company is considering whether or not to sell off its 70% remaining majority stake.
Opry Entertainment Group, a subsidiary of RHP, owns the Ryman Auditorium and multiple locations of both Blake Shelton’s Ole Red and Luke Combs’ Category 10 locations in Nashville alongside the Grand Ole Opry.
The Grand Ole Opry is a beloved country music venue that has helped shape the careers of many country icons over the decades it’s been open. Some major stars that have performed on this stage include Dolly Parton, Johnny Cash, Reba McEntire, Alan Jackson, and more.