Steve Earle Invited to Join Grand Ole Opry

Steve Earle, the acclaimed alt-country singer-songwriter and multi-Grammy winner, was invited by longtime friend Vince Gill to join the Grand Ole Opry during a performance on April 26, marking the Opry's 100th anniversary celebrations. The invitation followed Earle's performance of his signature song 'Copperhead Road,' after which Gill presented him with a commemorative guitar strap, revealing that only Opry members receive such an honor. Earle, visibly moved, called it 'the biggest thing that has ever happened' in his life before performing 'Hillbilly Highway.' Earle, known for his influential songwriting and mentorship from icons like Townes Van Zandt and Guy Clark, has had his songs covered by legends such as Johnny Cash and Emmylou Harris. His 1988 hit 'Copperhead Road' was named a Tennessee state song in 2023, and he will be formally inducted into the Opry later this year. Earle's membership adds a distinct alt-country perspective to the Opry, reflecting both his outsider status and substantial contributions to American music.