Grand Ole Opry - Nashville Tennessee on May 9 and May 16, 1997
Marty and the Rock 'n Roll Cowboys appeared on the Grand Ole Opry Friday May 9 and Friday, May 16. Marty hosted half-hour segments on each of the shows. On May 9, he performed a new version of "Me, Hank and Jumpin' Jack Flash" and "High On A Mountain Top" and closed with "Hillbilly Rock." Guests on his segment were Connie Smith and The Whites, who performed their songs from the Bill Monroe Tribute on April 17. Marty accompanied them on mandolin.

Members of the Fairfield Four along with Steve Arnold, Marty, Larry Marrs and Brad Davis
On May 16, Mario and I were lucky enough to be backstage. It is a totally different scene backstage. It's very casual and most of the Opry stars are very accessible. Marty arrived without any fan fare. I got a quick hug (got a bigger and better hug from road manager Mike Copelin). To enjoy Marty's performance, we went out into the main theater and sat on the floor in front of the stage (not very comfortable). Marty performed "Country Girls," and then introduced The Fairfield Four (a gospel quintet--yes, there were five of them). Marty, Brad Davis and Larry Marrs joined them for a song. Connie Smith then performed and Marty closed with "Till I Found you" and "Hillbilly Rock." It was a joy seeing him again. Marty and the band had to be at the airport by 5:45 a.m. the next morning to catch a flight to California.

Review written by Sherry Mattioli
Photo taken by Mario Mattioli
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