Grand Ole Opry Member Spotlight: Jesse McReynolds

Grand Ole Opry Country Music Show - Nashville

Dierks Bentley - The Opry's Youngest Member

Jesse McReynolds is known world-wide as one of the most influential and talented mandolin players ever. His cross picking style completely redefined bluegrass music. As one part of the group Jim and Jesse, Jesse performed with his brother Jim for 55 years. That is the longest brother duet group duration in country music history.

Background and Early Career

• Both Jesse and his brother Jim were raised with a great appreciation for "mountain music." Their grandfather recorded a single at a record company playing the fiddle.
• The brothers ere first signed with Capitol Records in 1952.

Grand Ole Opry Induction

• Jesse McReynolds was inducted into the Grand Ole Opry on March 2, 1964 with his brother Jim. They brought their own unique form of bluegrass to the Grand Ole Opry.

Jesse McReynolds at the Opry

• To see which dates Jesse will be performing at the Grand Ole Opry check out the VME Grand Ole Opry Blog. This will show what dates Jesse will be at the Opry along with other favorite Opry stars.

Notable Hits You Might Hear at the Grand Ole Opry

• "The Flame of Love"
• "Gosh I Miss You All the Time"
• "Cotton Mill Man"
• "Diesel On My Tail"
• "Are You Missing Me"
• "Paradise"

More Details

• Jesse served in the Army during the Korean War.
• Sadly, in 2002, both Jim and Jesse were diagnosed with two different types of cancer. Jesse beat his disease, but Jim passed away. Jesse likes to keep his brother's memory alive by performing their hits whenever he is able.
• See the complete list of current Grand Ole Opry members!