Sara Evans received a special invitation to become the newest member of the Grand Ole Opry on Thursday evening.
The one extending the invitation was none other than Bill Anderson, a Country Music Hall of Famer and the Opry’s most tenured member. Sharing the special occasion with them were fellow Opry members Lady A and Carly Pearce.
During her sold-out concert at Ryman Auditorium, where she was celebrating the release of Sara Evans Still Restless – The 20 Year Celebration, an album marking the 20th anniversary of her ACM-nominated and Platinum-selling record Restless, which was released in August 2003, Sara Evans experienced the unexpected moment.
This surprise occurred after Evans and Carly Pearce had joined forces for a collaboration on the song “Suds In The Bucket.” Carly Pearce then took the opportunity to introduce Lady A, who came forward to present a Platinum plaque for the song. Following this unexpected presentation, Hillary Scott from Lady A welcomed Bill Anderson onto the stage.
As Anderson stood before the audience, he recounted a meaningful memory. He shared how he had attended one of Sara’s early performances in a small warehouse showcase before her debut album was even released. This was because Sara had included his song “Walk Out Backwards” in her project, and it left a lasting impression on him.
“It’s a long way from that warehouse to selling out the Ryman,” Anderson said. He went on to say he had two questions for her, the first question asking her if she would sing “Walk Out Backwards.”
He then followed up by saying, “The second question is from me and Lady A, Carly, and a bunch of other people. Would you like to become a member of the Grand Ole Opry?”
She tearfully accepted, saying to the crowd that “God is so good.”
Evans is scheduled for induction into the Opry on Saturday, October 7th as part of the Opry’s 98th birthday weekend celebrations. Those interested in joining the birthday weekend events can find information about shows and packages at opry.com.
