On Monday 7 February 2022, Gene Watson reflected on his induction into The Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, an event which took place on Friday 7 February 2020.
‘‘Monday 7 February 2022 marked the 2-year anniversary of my induction into The Grand Ole Opry.
Photo Credit
Chris Hollo for Grand Ole Opry, Nashville
By February 2020, I was a little bit over the complete shock I experienced when, in January 2020, I was invited by one of the greatest singer/songwriter/musicians in country music today, Vince Gill. I remember Vince saying something about how he had a little cold and wanted to have me sing an extra song, so he could rest his voice. Then he said, if you’ll do that and sing ‘Farewell Party’, which was written by Lawton Williams (Monday 24 July 1922 – Thursday 26 July 2007), we’ll invite you to be the next member of The Grand Ole Opry.
I could barely stand after that and I don’t know if I hit the right notes or not, but I was overjoyed to be invited to the Opry family.
On Friday 7 February 2020, it was definitely a celebration for me, my band, my fans, and everyone who stood by me all these years.
I was extremely honoured to be inducted by my friend and fellow Opry star, Steve Wariner – another tremendous singer and musician and, like Vince, one of the nicest men you’ll ever meet.
My first time on the Opry stage as a guest of The Wilburn Brothers, I was 21 and I was inducted 56 years later as a member.
To me, the Opry is the pinnacle of country music, so I was beyond proud to be inducted, and am extremely honoured to be a member of this hallowed institution’
Source
• Gene Watson on Facebook