Grand Ole Opry Apologizes for Elle King's Performance in Dolly Parton Tribute

The Grand Ole Opry has publicly apologized following a contentious performance by Elle King during a tribute to country music legend Dolly Parton. The event, which took place last Friday at the Ryman Auditorium, was marred by King's apparent inebriation and use of profanity, deviating from the Opry's family-friendly tradition.

King, who described herself as "extremely intoxicated" during the show, engaged in awkward exchanges with the audience and struggled to perform a Parton song, altering the lyrics inappropriately. This deviation from the expected decorum of the Opry led to significant backlash from attendees and country music fans alike.

The Opry addressed the incident on their X account (formerly Twitter), expressing deep regret for the language used during the performance. This statement came after a concertgoer voiced their disappointment on X, highlighting the negative impact of King's performance on their first Opry experience.

During her rendition of Parton's "Marry Me," King reportedly changed the lyrics in a profane manner and acknowledged her inability to remember the song. Her response to the audience's frustration further fueled the controversy.

Country music enthusiasts and commentators have reacted strongly to the incident, with some perceiving it as a misguided attempt by King to adopt an outlaw persona in her transition to country music. Others expressed concern for her wellbeing, noting her past admissions of performing under the influence.

The renowned country music platform, Saving Country Music, opined that King owes apologies to both Parton and the Opry. The site compared her actions unfavorably to the rebellious antics of iconic artists like Johnny Cash and Jerry Lee Lewis, suggesting that King's behavior seemed more troubling than defiant.