George Jones Forever Etched in the Soul of Nashville at the Ryman Icon Walk
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium, affectionately known as the “Mother Church of Country Music,” has long been a sacred space for artists and fans alike. Its hallowed stage has witnessed countless legendary performances, shaping the very fabric of country music history. On Tuesday, June 3rd, the Ryman deepened its connection to that rich legacy by unveiling a powerful new addition to its Icon Walk: a bronze statue honoring the incomparable George Jones.
Widely revered as one of the most influential voices in country music, Jones’s likeness now stands as a permanent fixture on the historic venue’s grounds. This isn’t just a statue; it’s a profound declaration that “the Possum’s” indelible mark on Music City and beyond will never fade.
The Ryman’s Icon Walk is a meticulously curated outdoor exhibition designed to celebrate those who have made truly significant contributions to both the venue and the broader Nashville musical landscape. Jones’s statue now stands proudly alongside the bronze figures of other titans: Charley Pride, Loretta Lynn, Little Jimmy Dickens, and Bill Monroe. It’s an exclusive club, reserved for those whose influence echoes through generations.
The unveiling ceremony itself was a touching affair, attended by Jones’s beloved wife, Nancy, and daughter Susan. Their presence underscored the deeply personal significance of this honor. Country music star Jamey Johnson also lent his voice to the tribute, a fitting nod from a contemporary artist who undoubtedly draws inspiration from Jones’s unparalleled vocal mastery and raw emotional delivery.
Nancy Jones eloquently articulated the profound connection George had with the Ryman. “The Ryman was one of George’s favorite places to play music,” she shared, emphasizing his deep respect for the venue as the “Mother Church” and his appreciation for its legendary acoustics. For his legacy to be permanently enshrined there, witnessed by the many who gathered to celebrate his enduring impact, clearly meant the world to his family. It’s a sentiment that resonates with anyone who understands the spiritual pull of that iconic stage.
For this latest masterpiece, the Ryman once again tapped the talents of artist Ben Watts, the sculptor behind the existing four statues. Each of these intricate bronze likenesses takes approximately a year to bring to life, a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship and the deep reverence for these musical trailblazers. Watts’s work ensures that each figure not only captures the physical likeness but also the essence of these legends and their unbreakable ties to the Ryman.
Colin Reed, Executive Chairman of Ryman Hospitality Properties, underscored the significance of the moment. “Today, we add another legendary artist to the Ryman’s Icon Walk by bringing forth George Jones, who had a fabulous career and is revered as one of the greats,” Reed stated. He acknowledged the symbiotic relationship between Jones, the Ryman, and the Grand Ole Opry, recognizing how fortunate both institutions were to be part of Jones’s extraordinary story for so many years. Placing him among these other stars who have shaped country music is, as Reed noted, only fitting.
Visitors seeking to pay their respects can find Jones’s statue strategically placed at the northwest corner of the building, near the venue’s driveway on Fifth Avenue. He stands alongside Charley Pride, Loretta Lynn, and Bill Monroe, creating a powerful tableau of country music royalty. Meanwhile, Little Jimmy Dickens, with his perpetual grin, holds court atop the Ryman’s main steps facing Fourth Avenue, a cheerful greeter to every guest who arrives.
Jones’s history with the Ryman runs deep. A cherished member of the Grand Ole Opry since 1956, he graced its stage during multiple pivotal eras of his career, contributing immeasurably to the Opry’s rise as a cornerstone of country music. The timing of this statue unveiling is particularly resonant, coinciding with the ongoing celebrations surrounding the Opry’s 100th anniversary. It serves as a poignant reminder of Jones’s enduring place not just in the Ryman’s story, but in the entire sprawling narrative of country music.
This addition to the Icon Walk isn’t merely about commemorating the past; it’s about solidifying a permanent connection to the soul of country music. George Jones’s voice may have fallen silent, but his spirit, his artistry, and his profound impact will forever be honored at the Ryman Auditorium, inspiring generations to come.