on-this-day-trisha-yearwood-joins-grand-ole-opry-in-1999

On This Day: Trisha Yearwood Joins Grand Ole Opry in 1999

Trisha Yearwood’s hard work as a singer-songwriter culminated twenty-two years ago today when the Grand Ole’ Opry recognized her as an official member. On Mar. 13, 1999, Yearwood’s lifelong dream of joining the hallowed institution finally became a reality for the Georgia native.

Before that moment, Ricky Skaggs invited her to join the Opry on Jan. 16, 1999, when the Opry was held at the historic Ryman theater. Country music legend Porter Wagoner officially inducted Yearwood and gifted her with a commemorative Hatch Show Print poster.

“This has the feeling of winning Female Vocalist of the Year, something I wanted my whole life,” Yearwood said. “For my family, especially my parents, this is probably bigger than any award I’ve received.”

Yearwood continued, adding that the moment was not only significant to her but also for her mother.

“My mom once saw the Opry here at the Ryman. She wrote down descriptions of the Opry stars and the show, so she could take it home and show her mom and dad. She still has that diary. And it was really neat for me to see what it had meant to her,” Yearwood continued. “I feel proud, and I’m really glad they’re going to have that chance to see this happen for me.”

After Decades of Touring, Opry Remains Trisha Yearwood’s Favorite Venue

Nearly two decades after her induction, the Opry remains Yesrwood’s favorite venue. “At the Opry, you can see every face, and it’s wonderful, because you can make real connections with people,” she said.

Yearwood recently made her return to the Opry when she and her husband, Garth Brooks, performed Brooks’ hit, “Two of a Kind, Workin’ on a Full House.” The two performed for the special: “Grand Ole Opry: 95 Years of Country Music.” The power couple taped the performance on the Opry stage on May 2, 2020. Like Yearwood, Brooks was also invited to join the Grand Ole Opry in 1989.

The NBC television special also featured Kelsea Ballerini, Dierks Bentley, Lady A, Little Big Town, Little Big Town, Brad Paisley, Dolly Parton, Darius Rucker, Blake Shelton, Marty Stuart, and Carrie Underwood.