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.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.”
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].”
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.