|
• All Feature Articles
Darryl Worley Unwraps a New Christmas Show at the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center in Nashville
by Rich and Laura Lynch
Country chart-topper Darryl Worley was settling in nicely at his long holiday residency in Nashville on Saturday, December 2, 2023 at the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center with a little help from his talented friend Deana Carter in front of a packed house in the Tennessee Ballroom. Even though this was his first time out hosting this annual event the parent company was celebrating its 40th incarnation of their much-loved "A Country Christmas" that was just one of many attractions available to visitors to this vast and vibrant hotel that never ceases to amaze.
Darryl Worley takes the stage at his holiday residency in Nashville.
Darryl Worley & Friends Home for the Holidays is part of an ongoing tradition at the Gaylord in Nashville, Tennessee with Darryl Worley fronting the festivities for 2023. His scheduled guests include The Isaacs, Deana Carter, Billy Gilman, Andy Griggs, Billy Dean and Lorrie Morgan. Prior to the concert, attendees were served a three-course dinner prepared by the resort's award-winning chefs. Or, folks can purchase a show only ticket.
On Saturday, the sizable ballroom was full. The stage was flanked by two large screens. The setting was an inviting living room decked out in Christmas trees and lights. Darryl - armed with an acoustic guitar - appeared and talked about this being a season of hope and healing and his first song reflected these concepts.
Deana Carter presented her two biggest hits to the capacity crowd.
Before the next tune he introduced his talented band who took their places in the living room which added to the impression of being at a holiday gathering. Their next song was about wanting to return home for Christmas after being on the road which is a topic that musicians might discuss at a party. "Family Tree" kept with the theme so to speak.
After chatting about how southerners don't really know how to drive in the snow the band presented an enchanting "Let It Snow" which led into a new song called "Tractor Time" that was spiked with country swagger. Next, it was back to the holiday music with a warm rendition of "The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting On An Open Fire)".
At the amazing Cascades Atrium at the Gaylord Opryland.
A doorbell rang and in walked in Deana Carter. Darryl took a seat on one of the couches as Deana performed two chart toppers from her breakout debut record Did I Shave My Legs For This? Carter talked about growing up here in Nashville and actually working in this hotel while she was in college. Worley joined his guest on a merry version of "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas".
With the idea of three gifts, Darryl presented a triple play of number one hits. While reflecting on how these songs were gifts to him he thanked the fans for listening through the years. With a shout out to military and first responders he dedicated "Have You Forgotten?" to all those who serve and this night's rendition earned the group a standing ovation.
Darryl Worley is one event in a season of So. Much. Christmas. in Music City.
Worley reflected on his memories of Christmas while reminding everyone about the real meaning of this season which is the birth of Christ and his gift of salvation. The central Christmas tree had been replaced by a cross as they present a moving "O Holy Night" to end Home for the Holidays on a holy high note.
Darryl Worley & Friends Home for the Holidays is just one of many activities going on at the Gaylord which is decked out with signs stating "So Much Christmas". Other options include breakfasts, Ice-The Polar Express, photos with Santa, a Snoopy Scavenger Hunt, a Winter Wonderland with ice skating & ice tubing and more. All three of the hotel's atriums are decorated in colorful Christmas and music themed displays. Outside there is an impressive Nativity scene in which the story of Jesus is told and there are plenty of restaurants and stores to explore so one can really immerse themselves in Christmas at this resort.
Darryl Worley wrapped up his concert with thoughts on the real meaning of Christmas.
Related Links:
For more information on DARRYL WORLEY and the other organizations mentioned please visit the following links -
Darryl Worley |
Deana Carter |
Christmas at Gaylord Opryland
|
