One of country music’s hottest new male artists, and one of my new favorites, received a huge honor as he was welcomed into the Grand Ole Opry family this past weekend. Josh Turner was formally inducted into the Opry cast by veteran member Vince Gill during the Opry’s broadcast on GAC Saturday night. Although he is still a relative newcomer, Josh has been a hit with country music fans ever since they first heard of him through his 2001 breakthrough hit “Long Black Train.” He first performed the song as a brand new artist in front of a packed Opry House before his debut cd was even released and received a standing ovation – something that is nearly unheard of for a brand new artist no one had heard of yet.
Six years, several hits and two multi-platinum albums later, Josh was surprised last month by legend Roy Clark, who presented him with an invitation to become a full-fledged member. A visibly moved Josh happily accepted the huge honor, and during his special induction night October 27, he sang several of his hits, which showcase his strong leanings as a traditional country artist.
In inducting Josh, Vince told him it takes a lot of respect and responsibility to be a member of the Opry. Along with recently inducted Opry member Dierks Bentley, Josh is one of several new young artists more than up to the task of carrying the banner of traditional country music and keeping the traditions of the Grand Ole Opry alive.
Congratulations Josh!
0 comments:
Post a Comment