Grammy award winning artist, Kathy Mattea was invited to become a member of the Grand Ole Opry on Saturday night (Aug. 9) by Opry member Charlie McCoy. The four-time CMA Award winner, longtime Opry favorite, and host of the popular “Mountain Stage” radio show will officially join the Opry family on Saturday, October 11th.
Mattea’s long-time friend and fellow West Virginian, McCoy surprised her onstage turning off her speaker during her performance of her award-winning hit “18 Wheels and A Dozen Roses”. A surprised Mattea said, “Oh…Charlie, you just turned my speaker off!” McCoy replied, “I’m so sorry to interrupt” as he presented her with a dozen roses. “I want to ask you a question,” McCoy continued. “How would you like to be the next member of the Grand Ole Opry?” An emotional Mattea immediately answered, “Yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, and thank you!” As the audience rose to its feet, Mattea soaked in what had just happened, sharing, “I just want to take this in and just remember this moment.”
Kathy Mattea surprised onstage with an invitation from Opry member Charlie McCoy to become a member of the Grand Ole Opry.
“I’ve personally watched for nearly 30 years now as Kathy Mattea has brought such great songs, so much artistic integrity, and sheer joy to the Opry stage,” said Dan Rogers, Opry executive producer. “We all look forward to many more such performances in that circle she’ll call home.”
Featured Photo (l to r): Opry’s Gina Keltner, Nicole Judd, Opry member Charlie McCoy, Kathy Mattea, Opry’s Dan Rogers
