Lainey Wilson Invites TikTok Comedian & Songwriter Danae Hays to Make Her Opry Debut in 2025

It was a special evening at the Grand Ole Opry House on Monday night (December 9) as the 2024 Opry NextStage class got their moment in the spotlight.

Consisting of up-and-coming names in the country music arena, including Anne Wilson, Charles Wesley Godwin, Chase Matthew, Ella Langley, Josh Ross, Madeline Edwards, Wyatt Flores, 49 Winchester and Flatland Cavalry, this year's Opry NextStage Class took the hallowed stage alongside host and fellow alumni Lainey Wilson for a star-studded and surprise filled night.

In between performances, the sold-out crowd and all those watching at home were treating to a behind-the-scenes backstage livestream hosted by Nashville-based comedian and TikTok personality Danae Hays who gave an exclusive look at all the action all night long.

However, all the excitement wasn't just held backstage during the Opry NextStage Live show as Wilson invited Hays out to meet the audience.

"It seems like you've gotten really comfortable back stage," Wilson joked with the creator who's also recently tried her hand at songwriting. "I saw you walking up and down the halls, messing with people, eating all the popcorn, drinking the sweet tea and just making yourself at home.

"How would you feel about getting a little bit more familiar with this stage? By that, I mean that circle over there," Wilson asked as cheers began to break out. ""One of the perks of my Opry membership is that I get to make Opry invites. I would like you to make your Opry debut on this stage in that circle over there on March 4, 2025."

Overcome with emotion, Hays was quick to accept the invitation. Taking to socials following the show, she shared: "This ole Alabama girl is getting her Opry Debut in March. There’s nothing more sacred than stepping into the circle at the Opry and I couldn’t be more grateful that Miss Lainey Wilson was the one to ask!"

Hays, who first gained notoriety through her viral comedy videos on TikTok, moved to Nashville within the last year year or two and has since found her place in the creative community. Teaming up to write with artists throughout the genre, she's released a quartet of singles thus far, including 'Rode Hard,' 'All It Takes,' 'Dick in My Nightstand' and the just-released 'If These Walls Could Talk.'

Taking on an unapologetic and satirical tone throughout her songs up to this point, Hays has hinted that there's more music coming in 2025.

Though it's impossible to say whether her highly-anticipated Opry debut will see her cracking jokes or belting ballads, we look forward to seeing what the multi-hyphenate talent has up her sleeve come the new year.

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