Country music fans had plenty to say after Kelsea Ballerini’s tribute to Barbara Mandrell at the Grand Ole Opry’s centennial — some applauded the gesture, while others were far from impressed.
Kelsea Ballerini took the stage at the Grand Ole Opry to honor country legend Barbara Mandrell as part of the venue’s 100th-anniversary celebration, sparking a buzz.
A netizen’s comment on Kelsea Ballerini’s performance, dated March 20, 2025 | Source: Instagram/nbc
The singer performed Mandrell’s 1981 hit, “I Was Country When Country Wasn’t Cool,” with Mandrell seated nearby, swaying along to the tribute.
During the performance, Ballerini adjusted the lyrics to emphasize the significance of the Grand Ole Opry, singing, “And I was listenin’ to the Opry when all of my friends were diggin’ Rock ‘n Roll and Rhythm and Blues, I was country when country wasn’t cool.”
At the song’s conclusion, she embraced Mandrell and altered the closing line to, “She was country when country wasn’t cool.”
Kelsea Ballerini embraces Barbara Mandrell onstage, as seen in a video dated March 20, 2025 | Source: YouTube/NBC
Ballerini’s tribute sparked mixed reactions online, with some praising her performance while others criticized her rendition.
On Facebook, one person commented, “Not a Kelsea fan [sic].” Another agreed, writing, “I think she ruined the song. It just sounded like every other Kelsea song and nothing like Barbara’s song.” Another reaction stated, “I think she sounded awful. She’s no Barbara.”
Over on Instagram, responses varied. One fan praised the performance, saying, “she sounds amazing omg [sic].” However, another wrote, “She sang this sort of okay and Barbara definitely deserves a tribute…but I’m not convinced that Kelsea was country when country wasn’t cool…or that she ever was [sic].”
Kelsea Ballerini performs “I Was Country When Country Wasn’t Cool” to celebrate 100 years of country music at the Grand Ole Opry, as seen in a video dated March 20, 2025 | Source: YouTube/NBC
On TikTok, reactions were similarly split. One viewer wrote, “Pretty good version of this song [sic]!” Another commented, “She did a great version but still not Barbara I’m sorry [sic].” A third response noted, “Not as good as Barbara! But it’s not bad.”
Ballerini’s tribute to Mandrell marked a significant moment in the Grand Ole Opry’s history. While the performance divided opinions, it undeniably paid homage to one of country music’s most celebrated artists.
Mandrell’s influence on country music runs deep, dating back to her early years as a steel guitar prodigy. She dazzled audiences before her teens and later rose to dominate country music charts.
Her talent spanned genres, earning her recognition in both television and music. But behind all the success lies a story of resilience, shaped by a near-fatal accident and the steadfast support of her family.
By the time she stepped away from the spotlight, Mandrell had solidified her legacy as a trailblazer in the industry. However, her career was interrupted by a devastating car accident that left her with life-altering injuries. Here is her life story.
Barbara Mandrell, circa 1970 | Source: Getty Images
From Prodigy to Superstar: A Trailblazing Career
Mandrell’s journey to stardom began early, as she displayed extraordinary talent on the steel guitar, earning her the title of a child prodigy by the age of 11. Performing alongside her family band, she developed a reputation for mastering multiple instruments, including the accordion and banjo.
By the late 1970s and early 1980s, she had become a powerhouse in country music, delivering chart-topping hits like “Sleeping Single in a Double Bed” and “In Times Like These.”
Her crossover appeal brought her into millions of homes through the variety show “Barbara Mandrell and the Mandrell Sisters,” which became a fan favorite.
She made history by winning the coveted Entertainer of the Year award from the Country Music Association for consecutive years and collecting numerous accolades from the People’s Choice Awards.
The singer pictured at the 15th Annual Country Music Association Awards on October 12, 1981 | Source: Getty Images
Mandrell’s ability to bridge country and mainstream audiences made her one of the most celebrated figures of her time. But just as her career reached new heights, an unforeseen tragedy would alter the course of her life forever.
