George D. Hay

Referred to as “the Solemn Previous Judge,” that’s just what Grand Ole Opry announcer George Hay represented to the united states music community. Originally a printing journalist, Hay turned to radio when the paper that utilized him, the Memphis-based Industrial Charm, bought a place and employed him being a late-night announcer. As time passes, Hay created his “Judge” persona, blowing a steamboat whistle during every on-air appearance being a brand. He still left the South in 1924 and transferred to Chicago, where he had taken employment hosting the favorite Country wide Barn Dance radio plan. It wasn’t until he relocated to Nashville’s WSM in 1925, nevertheless, that Hay’s star in nation & traditional western circles was cemented. After WSM shown an opera before his Barn Dance present, Hay joked that his present was a “Grand Ole Opry.” The name trapped, and Hay was asked to do something as the announcer and reservation agent for the nascent range present. Though a beloved amount, Hay’s nickname was all as well truthful, and he demonstrated unable to transformation with the days, complaining when the Traditional western swing stars from the ’30s and ’40s utilized electric equipment. He eventually still left his MC responsibilities on the Grand Previous Opry in 1947. Hay became editor of Pickin’ and Singin’ Information in 1953 and was inducted in to the Nation Music Hall of Popularity one decade afterwards.