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J Mascis Makes Opry Debut
John R. Miller brought J Mascis on stage at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, marking the Dinosaur Jr. frontman’s first appearance at the venue. Their performance of Miller’s “Steering Wheel Drums” paired an Appalachian alt-country artist with an influential alternative-rock guitarist, underlining the Opry’s willingness to host unexpected musical collaborations.
Miller’s new album, The Great Unknowing, was released digitally last week and was recorded at Leon Russell’s Church Studio in Tulsa. Mascis also joined Miller at Nashville record shop Vinyl Tap for a cover of Neil Young’s “Cortez The Killer”; elsewhere on the same Opry bill, Switchfoot made its debut and invited Lainey Wilson to perform “Beautiful Life”.
In short
- J Mascis made his Grand Ole Opry debut with John R. Miller.
- They performed “Steering Wheel Drums” from Miller’s new album.
- Switchfoot also debuted, joined by Lainey Wilson.
Explained simply
The Grand Ole Opry is a historic concert venue in Nashville, Tennessee, that has been a focal point of American country music since its founding in 1925. It remains one of the most prestigious stages in the United States and continues to hold significant cultural weight within the music industry.
J Mascis is the guitarist and lead vocalist of Dinosaur Jr., an influential alternative-rock band that emerged during the 1980s indie rock scene. He has been a notable figure in alternative and rock music for more than three decades and is recognised for his distinctive guitar style.
The Opry has historically been devoted to country music programming, making an appearance by an alternative-rock artist somewhat unusual for the venue. The booking reflects how the Opry is diversifying its musical offerings whilst maintaining its status as an important institution in American musical culture.