Rising Artists Join Group That Included Lainey Wilson, Riley Green, More

The Grand Ole Opry revealed the rapidly-rising country artists in the Opry NextStage Class of 2025. The announcement on Tuesday (February 18) arrives as the historic Opry celebrates its 100th anniversary in 2025.

“For 100 years, the Grand Ole Opry has been the cornerstone of country music, championing artists at every stage of their careers,” Jordan Pettit, Vice President of Artist & Industry Relations for Opry Entertainment Group, said in a statement on Tuesday evening. “Opry NextStage continues this rich tradition by showcasing country music’s next generation through Opry platforms that connect these amazing artists to country music lovers worldwide.” 

A video shared on the Grand Ole Opry’s social media pages spotlighted Opry NextStage alumni and announced artists making up the newest class. the caption notes that “these artists have the talent, the stories, and the sound to become the next big thing in country music. And we’re bringing them into the limelight in a way that only the Opry can.”

The video spotlighted former Opry NextStage artists Riley Green (the inaugural Class of 2019), Megan Moroney (2022), Ashley Cooke (2023), Wyatt Flores (2024), Lainey Wilson (2021), Corey Kent (2023), Parker McCollum (2021) and Ella Langley (2024).

The Class of 2025 includes Avery Anna, Chayce Beckham, Dasha, Kaitlin Butts, Kashus Culpepper, Tigirlily Gold and Tucker Wetmore. Per the press release, the Class of 2025 “will receive dedicated support” from the Opry throughout the year through performances on the legendary stage, NextStage shows and more.