The last thing Dolly said to me was, “Bill Anderson – I will Always Love You.” She was looking me in the eye from the giant video screen in the the Grand Ole Opry House on the occasion of my 65th Opry Anniversary a few weeks ago. She was smiling as only Dolly could, making my night even more special than it already was. The news of her passing has rocked my world, but as we sang together back in 2023, “Someday It’ll All Make Sense”
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Country Music Hall of Fame member and Grand Ole Opry legend Bill Anderson was honored with the prestigious ACM Icon Award on Wednesday, August 19 during the 19th ACM Honors at The Pinnacle in Nashville.
Known as “Whisperin’ Bill,” he was celebrated for his extraordinary contributions to country music and a legendary career spanning more than seven decades as a recording artist, songwriter, author and television personality.
Bill shared, “There’s an old gospel song called, ‘I Wouldn’t Take Nothin’ For My Journey Now,’ and that’s pretty much how I’m feeling standing here tonight. I wouldn’t take anything for these 65-plus years, journeying through the world of country music among you and alongside you. You’ve been awfully good to me, and I’ll never be able to tell you how much I appreciate it. And this is the cherry on top of the sundae.”
The ACM Icon Award recognizes individuals whose multifaceted contributions have made a lasting impact on the Country Music genre and community. Bill’s recognition adds to a celebrated list of honors that includes induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame, Songwriters Hall of Fame and Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame.
Bill received the honor alongside fellow ACM Icon Award recipient Mike Curb.
Photo: LtoR: Scott Adkins, Bill Anderson, Rachael Nichols, Lee Willard Photo credit: Tammie Arroyo
“The Opry is the home of country music, and thankfully for 65 years now the show has been home to Whisperin’ Bill Anderson,” said Opry Executive Producer Dan Rogers. “We’re so thankful that through all the stages of his career—all the hits, all the songwriting successes, all the TV appearances, all the tour dates, and more, Bill has always come home to this Opry he loves. We’re so honored, we’re so proud, and we’re looking forward to the next 65.”
Tickets are on sale now for all Opry 2026 shows through December 2026 at opry.com. For more details on Summer at the Opry, go to opry.com/summer-of-the-century.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – SiriusXM is celebrating Country Music Hall of Fame member Bill Anderson’s 65th anniversary as a Grand Ole Opry member with “65 Years and Still Whisperin’: A Bill Anderson Weekend on SiriusXM.” As part of the special programming, a four-hour edition of Country’s Family Reunion will air on Saturday, July 18, and Sunday, July 19, at 5pm ET / 4pm CT on Willie’s Roadhouse.
Originally recorded during his 50th Grand Ole Opry anniversary, the program features unforgettable performances, heartfelt tributes, and stories highlighting the legendary songwriter
and entertainer. The broadcast returns to mark this historic milestone as fans reflect on his extraordinary six and a half decades as an Opry member.
Willie’s Roadhouse is home to the legends of classic country music, delivering timeless hits, iconic performances, and exclusive programming from the artists who have defined the genre. This presentation of Country’s Family Reunion gives listeners the opportunity to revisit one of the most memorable moments of Bill’s remarkable career.
Tune in to SiriusXM’s Willie’s Roadhouse for this celebration of one of country music’s most enduring icons.
How to Listen:
● SiriusXM subscribers can tune in to Willie’s Roadhouse on Channel 61.
● Non-subscribers can sign up for a free trial at www.siriusxm.com.
August 25, 2026 @ 2:46 pm
This is very sad news.. I had seen she had been poorly for a while, but I never thought she would leave just yet. She has left a great void that no one can fill.