Carrie Underwood took the stage, but by the time she finished, there wasn’t a dry eye in the house.

On the evening of March 19, 2025, the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville, Tennessee, was illuminated with a century’s worth of country music history.

The occasion was “Opry 100: A Live Celebration,” a three-hour live special commemorating the 100th anniversary of the Grand Ole Opry, the institution that has been the cornerstone of country music since 1925.

The event brought together a constellation of country music stars, each paying homage to the legacy of the Opry and the artists who have graced its stage.

Among the evening’s most poignant moments was Carrie Underwood’s heartfelt tribute to the legendary Randy Travis, a performance that left the audience deeply moved and underscored the enduring bonds within the country music community.​

A Night of Stars and Tributes

Hosted by Blake Shelton, “Opry 100: A Live Celebration” featured performances from a stellar lineup of artists, including Reba McEntire, Keith Urban, Kelsea Ballerini, Brad Paisley, Luke Combs, and many others.

Each artist took the stage to honor the rich history of the Opry, performing classic hits and heartfelt tributes that resonated with both the live audience and viewers tuning in from around the world. The event was not just a celebration of the Opry’s past but also a reflection on its role in shaping the future of country music.​

Carrie Underwood’s Deep Connection to Randy Travis

Carrie Underwood’s relationship with Randy Travis is one of deep admiration and personal significance.

In 2008, just three years after winning “American Idol,” Underwood was invited by Travis to join the Grand Ole Opry, a moment she has often described as one of the most meaningful in her career.

Reflecting on that moment, Underwood has expressed her gratitude and respect for Travis, recalling how his music influenced her from a young age. This deep-seated admiration made her tribute during the Opry 100 celebration all the more poignant.​

The Tribute Performance

Taking the stage in a black-and-gold printed dress that shimmered under the Opry lights, Underwood began her tribute by sharing a personal anecdote.

She recounted how her sister owned a cassette tape of Randy Travis’s music, which she “borrowed” and never returned.

This story set the tone for a performance that was both personal and universally resonant.​

Underwood’s song selection paid homage to Travis’s profound storytelling ability. She began with “Three Wooden Crosses,” a song that delves into themes of faith, redemption, and the unexpected turns life can take.

Her rendition was soulful, capturing the song’s depth and the narrative’s intricate layers.

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Transitioning seamlessly, she moved into “Forever and Ever, Amen,” one of Travis’s most beloved hits.

The audience was enraptured, swaying and singing along to the familiar tune.

As the song neared its conclusion, Underwood descended from the stage, microphone in hand, and approached Travis, who was seated in the audience.

In a moment that can only be described as magical, she held the microphone to him, and with a voice that has weathered storms yet remains steadfast, Travis sang the final “Amen.”

The crowd erupted into applause, many with tears streaming down their faces, witnessing a moment where music transcended words.​

Randy Travis: A Testament to Resilience

Randy Travis’s journey over the past decade has been marked by both triumph and adversity.

In 2013, he suffered a near-fatal stroke that left him with aphasia, affecting his ability to speak and sing.

The road to recovery has been arduous, but Travis has faced it with unwavering determination.

His presence at the Opry 100 celebration was a testament to his resilience and the indomitable spirit of a true artist.​

In recent years, advancements in technology have opened new avenues for Travis.

Through the use of artificial intelligence, his voice was recreated, allowing him to release new music. In April 2024, he unveiled “Where That Came From,” his first new studio recording since his stroke.

This was followed by “Horses in Heaven” in January 2025, a song dedicated to the victims of the Potomac River mid-air collision. These releases have been met with acclaim, with fans and critics alike celebrating the return of his iconic voice.​

The Power of Music: Bridging Generations

The Grand Ole Opry’s 100th anniversary was not just a celebration of the past but also a bridge to the future.

The event showcased how music can connect generations, with seasoned artists sharing the stage with emerging talents.

This interplay between the old and the new highlighted the genre’s evolution while honoring its roots.​

Underwood’s tribute to Travis epitomized this connection. It was a moment where the past met the present, illustrating the timeless nature of country music.

Her performance served as a reminder of the genre’s rich storytelling tradition and its ability to convey profound emotions that resonate across time.​

Audience Reactions: A Tapestry of Emotions

The emotional weight of Underwood’s tribute was palpable, both within the Grand Ole Opry House and across social media platforms.

Fans took to Twitter, TikTok, and Facebook to share their reactions, many expressing how deeply moved they were by the performance.

Clips of the moment when Travis sang the final “Amen” went viral, garnering millions of views and comments from fans worldwide.​

A Night to Remember

The Opry 100 celebration was a night filled with memorable performances and heartfelt tributes.

Artists from various backgrounds and genres came together to honor the legacy of the Grand Ole Opry and the artists who have made it the institution it is today.