Country music luminary Sara Evans was bestowed with a remarkable and unexpected honor at her sold-out Ryman Auditorium concert, an event that doubled as a celebration of her 20-year career milestone. The CMA and ACM Award-winning artist was left astounded as she was invited to join the prestigious Grand Ole Opry family by none other than the legendary Country Music Hall of Famer, Bill Anderson – the Opry’s longest-serving member. The heartwarming moment unfolded in the presence of fellow Opry members, Lady A and Carly Pearce, adding to the star-studded atmosphere.Evans’ extraordinary journey took a poignant turn as she was commemorating the release of ‘Sara Evans Still Restless – The 20 Year Celebration,’ a special project that marks the two-decade anniversary of her platinum-selling and ACM-nominated album ‘Restless’ which debuted in August 2003.
As the enchanting evening unfurled, a sequence of surprises unfolded on the Ryman stage. Following a captivating collaboration between Evans and Pearce on ‘Suds In The Bucket,’ Lady A stepped in to present a Platinum plaque for the song, seamlessly leading into a monumental moment. Hillary Scott of Lady A then welcomed Bill Anderson to the stage, setting the scene for an unforgettable proposition.Amidst the hushed anticipation, Anderson, a living legend with his own storied history, recounted his early encounter with Sara Evans. He recounted attending a modest warehouse showcase where Evans performed his song ‘Walk Out Backwards’ before her debut album’s release.
Reflecting on the journey that had brought them both to this pivotal moment, Anderson playfully inquired if Evans would grace the stage with the rendition that had brought them together.In a seamless response that showcased her unwavering talent, Evans delivered an enchanting a cappella rendition of ‘Walk Out Backwards.’ Her performance was met with resounding applause, setting the stage for Anderson’s pivotal query. Addressing Evans and the gathered crowd, he posed his second question, echoing the sentiments of Lady A, Carly Pearce, and countless others in the industry. “Would you like to become a member of the Grand Ole Opry?”Touched by the magnitude of the invitation, tears welled in Evans’ eyes as she emotionally accepted the honor she had long dreamed of.
Expressing her gratitude to her mother for nurturing her passion from an early age, she acknowledged the divine forces that had guided her path, proclaiming, “God is so good.”The culmination of this heartwarming moment is set to take place on Saturday, October 7, during the Grand Ole Opry’s 98th Birthday Weekend. As the music world eagerly anticipates this historic occasion, fans and well-wishers can find more information about the upcoming celebration and ticket options on opry.com.
Reflecting on the profound impact that Sara Evans has had on the country music landscape, Dan Rogers, the Opry’s Executive Producer, shared his admiration for her journey. Reminiscing about her first Opry appearance and drawing a parallel to her recent honor, he commended Evans’ resilience and genuine artistry. He underscored the Opry’s excitement to officially welcome her into their esteemed ranks during what promises to be an unforgettable October Opry Birthday Weekend.
