Opry Entertainment Group Acquires Southern Entertainment

Opry Entertainment Group (OEG), a subsidiary of Ryman Hospitality Properties, has acquired a majority interest in Southern Entertainment, a prominent live events company based in Charlotte, North Carolina. This investment, announced on January 14, enhances OEG's presence in the music festival sector, which includes notable events like the Carolina Country Music Fest and the upcoming Field & Stream Music Fest. OEG CEO Patrick Moore highlighted Southern Entertainment's growth over the past decade, positioning it as one of the strongest independent festival businesses in the U.S. The founders of Southern Entertainment, Bob Durkin and Rob Pedlow, will continue to lead the company, integrating OEG's artist development programs into their festivals. This strategic move is expected to expand OEG's reach within the country music audience and enhance the festival experience for fans and artists alike. OEG's portfolio also features iconic venues like the Grand Ole Opry and ACL Live, solidifying its role in the live entertainment landscape.