Gene Watson Invited To Be Newest Member Of The Grand Ole Opry

Gene Watson Invited To Be Newest Member Of The Grand Ole Opry | Classic Country Music | Legendary Stories and Songs Videos

Gene Watson/Instagram/Chris Hollo

55 years after making his Grand Ole Opry debut, legendary country artist Gene Watson will finally become a member of the hallowed organization.

Watson received the invitation to join the family during his appearance at the Opry on Friday night (January 17). The weekly show is currently being presented at its former home the Ryman Auditorium, the very stage where the “Fourteen Carat Mind” singer made his debut more than five decades ago. After performing his hits “Sometimes I get Lucky and Forget” and “Nothing Sure Looked Good on You,” Vince Gill joined him on stage.

“I’ve got a little bit of a cold. I’m not feeling too good,” Vince told Gene. “They’ve got me down for two more songs, but I’d love to give you one of those songs…..I tell you what…I’ll make you a deal. If you’ll do ‘Farewell Party,’ we’ll invite you to be the next member of the Grand Ole Opry.”

A visibly shocked Watson was speechless as he let the news sink in. He then told Vince that he and his band had spent 2019 celebrating the 40th anniversary of the release of “Farewell Party,” and said that it is still his more requested song.

Watson took to Instagram following his memorable night to thank everyone for the “love and support” and to share his excitement over his longtime dream coming true.

“It’s always been a dream of mine to be an Opry member. I sure was shocked when @vincegillofficial invited me to be a member last night. I’m still trying to comprehend it all,” Watson captioned a series of photos from the night. “55 years ago, I stepped out on that stage for the first time. Thank you everyone for the love and support. I sure do appreciate it.

Over the course of Watson’s career he earned five number one hits, 23 top 10s, and over 76 charted singles. He is most famous for his 1975 hit “Love In the Hot Afternoon,” his 1981 chart-topping hit “Fourteen Carat Mind,” and his signature song from 1979,  “Farewell Party.”

Congratulations to Gene Watson on this much deserved honor.

Watch the moment Vince Gill surprised Gene Watson with an unforgettable Opry invite in the video below.

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