Every year we make mention of the R.O.P.E. (Reunion of Professional Entertainers) dinner and awards. This past Thursday night was another winner. The music featured the Time Jumpers, a band that paid tribute to the late steel player, John Hughey. The Time Jumpers play here at the Station Inn on a regular basis and John was one of the band’s mainstays. During the banquet, Vince Gill did a few tunes in memory of his friend John Hughey. John played on all the Vince Gill sessions for the past 17 years. You could see the sorrow on Gill’s face. Hughey was also a R.O.P.E. founder.

Named R.O.P.E. entertainer of the year was 52-year Opry member Jimmy C. Newman. As expected, Newman was fabulous. Jimmy C. Newman is indeed an icon in the music industry. The industry has been good to him and vice-versa. He’s a great guy. Music journalist winner was Walt Trot. Shelby Singleton was awarded the honor of being businessman of the year and drummer D.J. Fontana was the musician award. Who can forget D.J.’s drumming on all the original Elvis Presley hits? Songwriter of the year was presented to the legendary Red Lane. It was a great night. It was great seeing Jim Ed Brown, Jean Shepard, Jeannie Seely and all the rest in attendance.