George D. Hay

George D. Hay was a pioneering radio announcer and the founder of the Grand Ole Opry, a cornerstone of American country music. Born in Indiana and a World War I veteran, Hay became known as the 'Solemn Old Judge' during his career in journalism before transitioning to radio. He launched the Opry in 1925, initially called 'WSM's Barn Dance,' and is credited with coining its iconic name in 1927. Under his direction, the Opry became a launching pad for numerous country music legends, solidifying its place as the longest-running radio broadcast in history and an enduring symbol of American culture.