OPRY NEWS
Josh Turner Becomes the Newest Member of the Grand Ole Opry
Nashville, TN — October 27, 2007
Multi-platinum MCA recording artist Josh Turner was inducted into the world-famous Grand Ole Opry this evening by Opry superstar Vince Gill.
After Turner performed his current hit “Firecracker” and his breakthrough smash “Long Black Train,” Gill made Opry membership official, saying, “We are so proud of your success. Congratulations.”
Turner responded, “Thank you Grand Ole Opry… Country music has always been a huge part of my life. I have always been willing and able to fight for it and that’s what I want to continue to do— and just continue to make great music for all these great country fans out here. Thank y’all.”
During the induction which aired live on Opry Live on GAC: Great American Country, Turner was also presented the Opry Member Award, a 14-inch bronze and oak wood replica of the Opry’s vintage microphone stand designed by renowned sculptor Bill Rains.
“What began as a magical moment with his debut performance of ‘Long Black Train’ in December of 2001 has grown into a very special relationship with the Opry and the rest of its membership,” Opry Vice President and General Manger Pete Fisher said last month following Turner’s Opry invitation. “We’re so happy to formally welcome Josh into our family tonight and look forward to years of great Opry performances and career accomplishments to come,” Fisher added this evening.
Turner burst onto the national scene in 2003 with his debut album Long Black Train, selling more than a million copies. His follow up disc, Your Man, has sold more than double that amount establishing Turner as one of the fastest-rising stars in country music today. His distinctive voice paired with his inspired songwriting make him one of Nashville’s most notable traditionalists. The singer’s latest album, Everything Is Fine, hits stores on October 30th and is powered by the fastest-rising single of his career, the self-penned “Firecracker.” The new Opry member is on the road in select cities this fall with Sara Evans. For more information, please visit www.joshturner.com.
Vince Gill and Opry General Manager Pete Fisher Induct Josh Turner as the Newest Member of the Grand Ole Opry
Visit www.youtube.com/oprylive to watch Josh's performance of "Firecracker" during Opry Live!