When the Grand Ole Opry returns to live shows, it will be without one familiar voice. Longtime announcer Eddie Stubbs announces he is retiring on July 29, bringing an end to 25 years serving as host of 650 AM WSM, and the Opry.

“I have had an extremely blessed 25 years at WSM, and as the third-longest tenured announcer in the Grand Ole Opry’s history,” Eddie said in a statement. “The experiences and friendships have allowed me to live a lot of dreams. Needless to say, I will be forever grateful.”

Eddie moved to Nashville in 1995 to play fiddle for Kitty Wells and Johnnie Wright, becoming an announcer of the famed show only three months later. WSM Radio also shared the news on social media.

 

“This evening Eddie Stubbs announced his retirement from WSM Radio and the Grand Ole Opry. Eddie has been a part of our airwaves for more than 25 years, and we’re so grateful for his knowledge, wisdom and passion for country music,” the radio station announced. “Stay tuned this week and next as WSM celebrates Eddie Stubbs. We’ll revisit some of his famed interviews from our archives, and so much more! Thank you Eddie, for keeping the light on for Nashville radio!!”

Eddie’s time at the Grand Ole Opry makes him the third longest-serving host at the Opry, and the longest-serving host of the 7:00 PM to midnight slot in WSM‘s 95-year history.

“Eddie has been a great friend to the Opry, to the Opry’s artists, and to listeners around the world,” Dan Rogers, Grand Ole Opry Vice President and Executive Producer said of Eddie’s tenure. “I have no doubt that students of the Opry and of country music will for years turn to his recorded conversations with legends including Merle Haggard, Ray Price, Connie Smith, Marty Stuart and so many more to learn about their careers and the era in which Eddie has made such an impact at the Opry and on WSM.”

The Grand Ole Opry has been closed to visitors since mid-March, due to the coronavirus pandemic. It is currently selling tickets for shows the last two Saturdays in August, subject to the latest CDC guidelines. Chrissy Metz and CeCe Winans will perform this Saturday, July 25. Find more information at Opry.com.