Pictured (L-R): Trisha Yearwood, Jeannie Seely, Carly Pearce. Photo: Chris Hollo
Carly Pearce was officially inducted as the newest member of the Grand Ole Opry family last night (Aug. 3) by Opry member Trisha Yearwood. The show will air on Circle Television on Saturday, Aug. 14.
Pearce was introduced on stage by Opry member Jeannie Seely who shared, “Carly has all the obvious wonderful traits, but she has that one extra thing, determination. She has the sincerest dedication and strongest work ethic of anyone I’ve ever known in my life. And she never strayed from her path of wanting to be a member of the Opry.”
During the special evening Pearce performed her hit “I Hope You’re Happy Now,” and during a press conference earlier in the evening, Big Machine Label Group President/CEO Scott Borchetta and RIAA Vice President, Artist & Industry Relations Jackie Jones surprised Pearce with a plaque commemorating the 2X Platinum certification for the hit. As she sang the chart-topper solo for the Opry crowd, duet partner Lee Brice was also presented the honor at the Ryman Auditorium.
Pearce also performed a duet with Yearwood on “How Do I Live,” before Yearwood officially inducted her, saying “This is a very special place, and when you are invited it’s an invitation to the family. So, with much pride and joy, Carly you are now an official member of the Grand Ole Opry.”
The newest member of the Opry also performed a new song to commemorate her special moment, “Dear Miss Loretta,” an acknowledgement she wrote to one of her profound influences she debuted on the Opry stage. Expressing a true understanding for Loretta Lynn’s pain and life in the song, she enlisted fellow Kentuckian Patty Loveless for a doleful pairing that spans three generations and will be featured on her upcoming album 29: Written in Stone. The evening culminated with Pearce, Yearwood and Seely blending three generations of traditional country harmonies on the Kitty Wells classic “Making Believe.”
“What makes this family something special to be a part of is you can have hit records and sell out shows, but all of that can fade and this is something I will have forever,” said Pearce. “It’s a stage to sing on, a circle to stand in and a forever family. This is super special to me. All I ever wanted to do was sing country music. This isn’t another accolade or feather in my cap but a promise that I will do my due diligence to make sure the circle is never broken.”
Pictured (L-R): Big Machine Label Group President/CEO, Scott Borchetta; Carly Pearce; RIAA Vice President, Artist & Industry Relations, Jackie Jones. Photo: Chris Hollo
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