Grand Ole Opry Honors Don Williams During Opry 100 Celebration

Grand Ole Opry continues its centennial tribute series with a special night celebrating the legacy of Don Williams, alongside new music from his archives.

Written by Amanda Tempel

Date Published: April 23, 2026

The Grand Ole Opry is continuing its milestone Opry 100 celebration with another installment of its “Opry 100 Honors” series, this time paying tribute to the legendary Don Williams.

Set for June 10, the special “Opry 100 Honors Don Williams” show will feature performances from Opry members including Keith Urban, Trisha Yearwood, and more, honoring the enduring legacy of one of country music’s most recognizable voices.

Williams officially became an Opry member 50 years ago, debuting with performances of “The Shelter of Your Eyes” and “You’re My Best Friend.” His smooth, understated delivery and timeless catalog helped define an era of country music and continues to influence artists today.

Adding to the celebration, a new chapter in Williams’ musical legacy is on the way. A collection of previously unheard recordings, discovered by his son Tim Williams and longtime producer Garth Fundis, will be released as a new album titled Epilogue: The Cellar Tapes on May 29 via Craft Recordings.

The recordings date back to 1979 through 1984, a defining stretch in Williams’ career that produced classics like “Tulsa Time,” “I Believe in You,” and “Lord, I Hope This Day Is Good.”

For Keith Urban, the connection to Williams runs deep. He has often cited Williams as one of his biggest musical influences, noting that his father frequently played Williams’ music during his childhood. Urban even collaborated with Williams on “Imagine That” for Williams’ 2012 album And So It Goes.

Trisha Yearwood has also long credited Williams as a major influence, recording “Maggie’s Dream” for the 2017 tribute project Gentle Giants: The Songs of Don Williams. Like Williams, Yearwood worked closely with producer Garth Fundis, whose signature production style helped shape Williams’ iconic sound.

The “Opry 100 Honors” series, sponsored by Dan Post, continues to spotlight the artists who built the foundation of the Opry’s first century. Since launching in 2025, the series has honored legends including Loretta Lynn, Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash, Charlie Daniels, Porter Wagoner, Bill Monroe, Minnie Pearl, Roy Acuff, Hank Williams, and Little Jimmy Dickens.

A portion of ticket sales will benefit the Opry Trust Fund, which has supported country music professionals in times of need for more than six decades. Beginning now, $5 from every ticket sold for “Opry 100 Honors” shows will go directly toward the fund, helping provide financial assistance for medical bills, emergencies, and other hardships within the industry.

Fans can find the full Opry 100 schedule, ticket information, and additional details through the Opry’s official platforms.

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FAQ: Grand Ole Opry

What is Opry 100 Honors?
“Opry 100 Honors” is a special tribute series celebrating the artists who shaped the first century of the Grand Ole Opry.

When is the Don Williams tribute show?
The “Opry 100 Honors Don Williams” show takes place on June 10.

Who is performing at the tribute?
The show will feature artists including Keith Urban and Trisha Yearwood, along with additional performers.

What is Epilogue: The Cellar Tapes?
Epilogue: The Cellar Tapes is a newly discovered collection of previously unreleased recordings by Don Williams from 1979–1984.

When will the new Don Williams album be released?
The album is set for release on May 29 via Craft Recordings.

What is the Opry Trust Fund?
The Opry Trust Fund provides financial assistance to country music professionals facing medical or financial hardships.

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