On Tuesday, June 3, Nashville’s historic Ryman Auditorium unveiled a new statue honoring the legendary George Jones, one of the most revered voices in country music history. The detailed bronze likeness joins the Ryman’s Icon Walk, a permanent outdoor tribute to artists who have made profound contributions to the Mother Church of Country Music and the broader genre.
A Legacy Cast in Bronze
Jones’s statue now stands proudly outside the Ryman alongside country greats Charley Pride, Loretta Lynn, Little Jimmy Dickens, and Bill Monroe. His presence solidifies his place among the icons who helped shape both the Grand Ole Opry and the cultural identity of Music City.
Family, friends, and fans gathered for the special unveiling. Jones’s wife Nancy Jones and daughter Susan were in attendance, along with country artist Jamey Johnson, who paid tribute to the legend during the ceremony.
“The Ryman was one of George’s favorite places to play music,” shared Nancy Jones. “He truly revered it as the ‘Mother Church’ and loved the acoustics. To have his legacy live on here permanently, and to see all the people who joined us today and continue to embrace him and his music, means so much to our family.”
Crafted with Care by a Familiar Hand
The Ryman partnered once again with artist Ben Watts, the sculptor behind the previous four Icon Walk statues. Each statue is a labor of love, taking roughly a year to complete. Watts’ work captures the spirit of each artist and their connection to the iconic venue.
“Today, we add another legendary artist to the Ryman’s Icon Walk by bringing forth George Jones, who had a fabulous career and is revered as one of the greats,” said Colin Reed, Executive Chairman of Ryman Hospitality Properties. “The Ryman and the Opry were lucky to be a part of George’s story for so many years, so we feel it is only fitting to have George added here among these other stars who have made a lasting impression on country music.”
A Permanent Place in the Heart of Music City
Visitors can find the George Jones statue on the northwest corner of the Ryman, near the venue’s driveway on Fifth Avenue. He stands alongside Charley Pride, Loretta Lynn, and Bill Monroe, while Little Jimmy Dickens greets guests from atop the venue’s main steps on Fourth Avenue.
Jones’s connection to the Ryman runs deep. A Grand Ole Opry member since 1956, he performed on its stage throughout his legendary career. The statue unveiling comes at a meaningful moment, coinciding with the Opry’s 100th anniversary and further solidifying Jones’s role in its storied history.
With this new addition, the Ryman continues to celebrate those who shaped the sound of country music—and ensures their legacy stands tall for future generations.
