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Josh Turner Surprised by Grand Ole Opry Invite

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Josh Turner accepts Roy Clark's invitation to become a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Photo courtesy of the Grand Ole Opry.


October 1, 2007 — Josh Turner was surprised Saturday night with an invitation to join the Grand Ole Opry. He will be formally inducted into the Opry family on October 27 by Vince Gill.

During GAC's "Opry Live" Josh presented Roy Clark with a plaque commemorating his years in music and in his marriage, as well as 20 years as a Grand Ole Opry member. After accepting, Roy noticed an envelope attached to the back of the plaque. He opened it and said, "Well, actually this is for you, Josh, It reads: How would you like to formally become a member of the Grand Ole Opry?"

After taking a moment to regain his composure and give Roy a hug, Josh said, "I made my Opry debut back in 2001. I never knew this could happen so early. And if this is an invitation, I say yes!"

Josh's December 21, 2001, Opry debut is one of the most memorable in recent history. Though he hadn't yet had a song released to country radio at the time, he earned a standing ovation for the song that would become his breakthrough hit, "Long Black Train," and a second standing ovation following an encore.

"It is with great enthusiasm that we invite Josh to become the newest member of the Grand Ole Opry," said Pete Fisher, Opry vice president and general manager. What began as a magical moment with his debut performance of 'Long Black Train' in December of 2001 has grown into a very special relationship with the Opry and the rest of its membership."

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