Season 2 of “Meet the American” on Fox Nation
Fox Nation’s series “Meet the American” has returned for its second season, hosted by Bill Hemmer, co-anchor of “American Newsroom.” Each episode showcases stories that embody the essence of America.
This season features individuals whose creativity, patience, or innovative spirit have significantly impacted American culture. A notable episode focuses on the Grand Ole Opry located in Nashville, Tennessee.
Hemmer shares the remarkable narrative of George D. Hay, who is credited with founding this treasured music venue.
In October 1925, the upstart radio station WSM debuted, coinciding with the launch of a program originally called “WSM’s Barn Dance.” Announcer and program director George D. Hay teamed up with Uncle Jimmy Thompson, a 77-year-old fiddler, to create the show.
George D. Hay, originally from Indiana, served in the U.S. military during World War I before relocating to Tennessee. He gained fame as the “stricken old judge,” an alter ego he adopted while covering local courts as a journalist in Memphis.
Today, nearly a century later, Hay is still celebrated for establishing the Grand Ole Opry, according to its website.
The Opry enjoyed massive popularity, broadcasting from the Lyman Auditorium in downtown Nashville as early as 1943. In 1974, it expanded by building its own theater and country music campus named Opryland, located roughly ten miles from the city center.
Hay’s vision has become synonymous with a dynamic brand that has evolved over time.
In December 1927, Hay announced, “For the past hour we’ve been listening to music that was mostly aired from Grand Opera, but now we’re introducing Grand Ole Opry.” The name has since become a lasting cornerstone of live performance and country music culture.
Hay is believed to have helped launch the careers of major country music stars such as Hank Williams, Loretta Lynn, Patsy Cline, and George Jones.
With a seating capacity of nearly 4,400, the Opry continues to host legends and emerging talent alike.
Opry, in its various forms, remains a thriving institution to this day. Interestingly, it holds the title of the longest-running radio broadcast in the world, according to Guinness World Records.
