Introduction:
Last night, the stage lights of the Gaslight Theater in Opryland, USA, glowed a little brighter as country music legends Conway Twitty and Loretta Lynn reunited on Nashville Now. The atmosphere crackled with humor, history, and warmth as host Ralph Emery welcomed them — and the beloved Shotgun Red — for an unforgettable conversation.
From the moment Conway stepped onstage, the camaraderie was clear. His playful banter with Ralph revealed their genuine friendship: “Quit meeting like this and kissing me in public – people will talk,” Ralph teased. Conway laughed it off, removing his jacket, remarking how much he appreciated a gift from a fan named Tommy. The light-hearted exchange set the tone for an evening that was as much about storytelling as it was about music.
One of the most poignant moments came when Ralph brought up a remarkable new book: From Aaron Jenkins to Harold Jenkins, a genealogy tracing Conway Twitty’s family back generations. Conway described the careful research behind the book — years of work, old family Bibles, and hundreds of names. With some pride, he revealed that the book, full of never-before-seen photos, would be available from Twitty City, his theatrical complex in Hendersonville, Tennessee.
As Conway reflected on his roots, the memory of his late father, Floyd Jenkins, filled the room. He spoke softly of his upbringing on the Mississippi River, born in Friars Point, Mississippi, and raised just across the river in Helena, Arkansas. Ralph’s careful questions gave the audience a glimpse into Conway’s family history, his heritage, and the people who shaped him.
But the night wasn’t just about genealogy — it was also a tribute to a legendary musical partnership. Loretta Lynn joined Conway onstage, and the two reminisced about how they first met in 1967 at Bradley’s Barn. Loretta recalled being star-struck, bouncing up in surprise when Conway was introduced. From that moment grew one of country music’s most iconic duos, producing classic hits like After the Fire Is Gone and Louisiana Woman, Mississippi Man. 
Their chemistry was playfully evident throughout the show: Loretta joking about the famous “Shotgun Red” doll, winding up her own version backstage, and Conway grinning as she added it to her collection. They even teased the possibility of recording a new duet together — a prospect that thrilled longtime fans.
On a more reflective note, they spoke of legacy. Conway confirmed he has an authorized autobiography in the works, one that offers fresh insights into the man behind the music: “Most everything’s in there,” he said, though he admitted he’d kept some “personal things” reserved.
The evening closed as musically as it began: Loretta stood to sing, while Conway teased, “I’ll hold your dog — I won’t let it go.” That tender, irreverent spirit captured exactly what makes their story so enduring: the blend of friendship, nostalgia, and genuine country heart.