Kathy Mattea Invited to Join Grand Ole Opry October

Kathy Mattea, a multi-Grammy Award-winning country and bluegrass artist, was invited by Opry member Charlie McCoy to become the next member of the Grand Ole Opry during a surprise onstage moment on August 9. McCoy interrupted Mattea's performance of her hit "18 Wheels and a Dozen Roses" by turning off her speaker and presenting her with a dozen roses, symbolically linking to the song, before asking if she would join the Opry. An emotional Mattea accepted the invitation, receiving a standing ovation from the audience, and will officially become a member on October 11 in Nashville. Dan Rogers, the Opry executive producer, praised Mattea for her nearly 30 years of artistic integrity and joy brought to the Opry stage, expressing excitement for her future performances. Mattea, a longtime Opry favorite and host of the "Mountain Stage" radio show, has had a significant career with 16 studio albums and multiple CMA awards. The Opry also plans to celebrate milestone anniversaries for members Connie Smith and Pam Tillis later in August.