# Black Opry, a collective promoting country music among Black artists
In March 2021, a study on racial disparities in country music found that only 1% of artists signed to the top three Nashville label groups over a two-decade period were Black, highlighting a significant lack of diversity in the industry. In response, Holly G created Black Opry as a fan blog to advocate for Black country music singers, eventually evolving into a real performance collective that has since hosted over 100 shows and supported more than 90 artists.
The group aims to create a safe space for Black artists, countering the industry’s historical exclusion of their voices. With a focus on uplifting talented musicians, Black Opry seeks to provide a platform for artists to showcase their craft and break down barriers within the mainstream music industry.
At a recent performance at the Newport Folk Festival, Black Opry reflected on the importance of their work, emphasizing the need to build their own pathways in an industry that has often marginalized Black musicians. Their vision prioritizes talent and unity, setting only two simple requirements for performers: to be good musicians and to show respect and love for those around them.
The collective’s performances feature a rotating lineup, allowing each artist to showcase their individual talent with the support of their fellow members. This approach has proven to be empowering for musicians like Roberta Lea and Whitney Mongé, who found a sense of community and validation in their journeys as Black artists.
For Lea, the Black Opry community provided the encouragement she needed to transition from a career in education to pursuing music full-time. Mongé, with fifteen years of experience in the industry, emphasized the familial atmosphere within Black Opry and the recognition they have received at festivals, noting the significance of finding a community that resonates with her identity as a musician.
The collective’s founder, Holly G, shared her joy in witnessing the impact of Black Opry performances on audiences, noting the vindication felt by artists who have been told they don’t belong in certain spaces within the music industry. As Black Opry continues to support and uplift Black artists, they are actively challenging the status quo and reshaping the narrative of country music, creating a sense of belonging and acceptance within the genre.
