Carrie Underwood will celebrate 15 years as a Grand Ole Opry member with a special show. The Oklahoma native will honor the milestone anniversary with a two-show performance on Saturday, May 13.
Underwood was invited to join the Grand Ole Opry on March 15, 2008, by Randy Travis.
“Oh my gosh, that was so amazing, and I couldn’t have imagined it from a different person. Everybody here kept a tight lip,” Underwood later said backstage about the honor.
“This is what we used to watch when I was little, and where I learned about people of the past and the present, and newcomers coming in and singing,” she continued. “It’s something that’s been a huge part of country music, and it’s wonderful to think that I’m going to be a part of it, an official part of it, not just showing up and singing every once in a while.”
Garth Brooks officially inducted Underwood into the Grand Ole Opry on May 10, 2008.
“I can’t imagine what you’re feeling right now. I cried like a baby the whole time,” Brooks said (via CMT) prior to her induction. “You will be rained with awards from the CMA, ACM, Grammys and all that stuff. Nothing will last as long or be more important than this award right here tonight. Congratulations.”
Underwood was understandably emotional as she became a member of the hallowed institution.
“This is going to hold a very special place in my awards case,” Underwood said from the stage. “I just want to thank everybody at the Opry for having me as part of your family because it really seems like a great family to be part of.”
In spite of her busy career, the mother of two makes performing at the Opry a priority, and takes every aspect of her performance — including what she wears — very seriously.
“I’m very particular when it comes to [my[ Opry wardrobe,” Underwood told Audacy’s Rob + Holly. “You see pictures on the wall, or looking up things about the Grand Ole Opry, and I feel like the women always dressed a certain caliber. It was very rhinestones, it was very shiny. It was a certain kind of dress. I love trying to carry that legacy on because they were just so beautiful to me.”
Deana Carter and Michael Ray are already scheduled to perform on May 13 at the Grand Ole Opry, with more artists expected to be announced in the near future. Tickets for Underwood’s Opry performance can be found at Opry.com. Find all of Underwood’s upcoming performances at at CarrieUnderwoodOfficial.com.
Photo Credit: Courtesy of Schmidt Relations / Chris Hollo
