Pryor Baird Makes An Emotional Grand Ole Opry Debut Earning A Standing Ovation

Baird Offered A Release Day Performance Of His Brand-New Track

"Mighta Met A Girl" (1/26)

The Musical Triple Threat Commemorated the Unforgettable Evening in the Opry's Circle Room During An After-Performance Reception

Dynamic songwriter, guitarist, and Black River recording artist Pryor Baird stepped into the legendary Grand Ole Opry circle for the very first time during his Opry debut this past Friday night (Jan. 26). Baird marked the release of his brand-new track, "Mighta Met A Girl" and its accompanying lyric video by offering a release day performance of the powerful third offering from the soulful rising country artist. After stepping off the coveted stage, Baird was joined by his family, friends, and team in the Opry's Circle Room for an intimate post-debut celebration.

Pictured (L-R): Black River’s Rick Froio and Doug Johnson; Starstruck Entertainment’s Berkley Kriz;

Pryor Baird; the Opry's Dan Rogers; and Black River's Gordon Kerr.

Photo Credit: Patrick Sheehan

WSM's Kelly Sutton, the host for the evening, introduced an eager Baird to the Opry stage as he began his debut set with a performance of his (1/26) release, " Mighta Met A Girl" via Black River. Co-written by Baird with Chris Gelbuda and David Tolliver, "Mighta Met A Girl" is produced by Doug Johnson. The feel-good tune brings listeners along on Baird's lighthearted journey during a night out with friends that begins like any other, but ends anything but — leaving him lovestruck and hopeful that he "mighta met a girl last night."

Pryor Baird pictured performing during his Grand Ole Opry debut on 1/26.

Photo Credit: Starstruck Entertainment

After the rush of stepping into the circle and performing his uptempo love story, Baird thanked and acknowledged our US Military, first responders, teachers, and survivors.

Getting even more personal with the supportive Opry crowd, Baird touched on how in life, everyone is faced with hardships and loss. However in overcoming those times, one can find beauty. He then dedicated his next performance to his father, who recently passed unexpectedly, saying, "This one's for you, Dad." With the help of the legendary Opry band's Randy Hart on keys, Baird belted out his emotional unreleased ballad, "Beauty In The Broken."

Although the track has not yet been released, it was the perfect song for Baird to honor one of the most influential people in his life, his father, who helped shape Baird into the artist and person he is today.

Following the emotional performance, Baird was treated to a rare standing ovation and joined host Kelly Sutton for an interview at the podium. In a moment of celebration and reverence, Sutton shared that she was sure his father was indeed looking down on this incredible night. "I think he was here tonight and I hope he had a good time," Baird replied. "He's definitely ready to have a cold beer after this - at least two or three."

Pryor Baird pictured receiving a standing ovation during his Grand Ole Opry debut on 1/26.

Photo Credit: Starstruck Entertainment

Riding the high of reaching the career milestone after dreaming about this day for nearly his whole life, Baird's family, friends, and music industry alike gathered for an intimate after-party to mark the occasion. Hosted by Baird's record label and publishing home, Black River, along with his management team, Starstruck Entertainment, the evening included remarks from Baird and a commemorative cake donning the image of a five-year-old Baird with his first guitar, as well as the Grand Ole Opry stage.

"I want to say thank you to every single person that has ever reached into what I'm doing and said, 'We believe in it. We want to be a part of it.' That just speaks volumes, and I'm so thankful," shared Baird during the reception, surrounded by his closest supporters. "I truly have the greatest team, family, and fans - thank you so much for letting this be a reality. Work hard, and dream big."

Since the track's release, " Mighta Met A Girl" has secured spots on top playlists including Apple Music's New In Country; Spotify's New Music Friday Country; Amazon Music's Breakthrough Country; PANDORA’s Top Country Hits; and Vevo's New Music Friday.

"With an ultra-relatable lyric and memorably catchy melody that masterfully smashes into his gifted know-how of keeping his signature flares well intact, Pryor Baird continues to showcase the unique definitions of who he is as a songwriter and artist..." 

- Jeffrey Kurtis

Baird is only heating up as he prepares to embark on the Nashville Hits the Roof series kicking off on 2/1 with a performance in Nashville before hitting the road for shows in South Carolina and North Carolina. Tickets are available HERE.

For more information, please visit pryorbaird.com and follow Pryor Baird on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, and TikTok.