Grand Ole Opry Member Spotlight: Jimmy C. Newman

Grand Ole Opry Country Music Show - Nashville

Dierks Bentley - The Opry's Youngest Member

Born and raised in the true Cajun style of Louisiana, Jimmy C. Newman can often be found bringing his Cajun-country style to the Opry stage. With a unique sound that includes an accordion and some of the best musicians Nashville has to offer, Jimmy is a long-standing Opry member that continues to entertain audiences of all ages.

Background and Early Career

• With a blend of his Cajun roots and his early love of the cowboy country music of Gene Autry, Jimmy had his first country hit in 1954 after a string of unsuccessful songs.
• As a start to his career, Jimmy traveled around the South and Southwest singing with bands. Soon he hosted his own radio show in Louisiana, was part of a television program in Shreveport, and became a regular performer on the Louisiana Hayride radio showcase.

Grand Ole Opry Induction

• Inducted in August of 1956, he continues to make regular appearances. He and his wife, Mae, still live just outside of Music City on their 670-acre ranch.

Jimmy Newman at the Opry

• Want to know when you can experience this Cajun at the Opry? Visit the VME Grand Ole Opry Blog for a schedule of upcoming performances.

Notable Hits You Might Hear at the Grand Ole Opry

• "Cry, Cry, Darling"
• "Daydreamin'"
• "Blue Darlin'"
• "God Was So Good"
• "A Fallen Star"
• "Alligator Man"
• "Bayou Talk" 
•  "Grin and Bear It"
• "A Lovely Work of Art"
• "You're Makin' A Fool Out Of Me"

More Details

• Jimmy C. Newman was inducted into the North American Country Music Association's International Hall of Fame.
• He has also been inducted into the Cajun Music Hall of Fame and the Cajun Hall of Fame.
• See the complete list of current Grand Ole Opry members!