Josh Turner invited to join Grand Ole Opry

During "Opry Live," Turner presented Roy Clark with a plaque commemorating his years in music, marriage and also 20 years as a Grand Ole Opry member. After accepting, Clark noticed an envelope attached to the back of the plaque. He opened it and found a formal invitation enclosed and read it aloud.

"Well, actually this is for you, Josh," said Clark. "It reads - how would you like to formally become a member of the Grand Ole Opry?"

After taking a moment to regain his composure and give Clark a hug, Turner said, "I made my Opry debut back in 2001. I never knew this could happen so early. And if this is an invitation, I say yes."

Turner's Dec. 21, 2001 Opry debut was done before he even had a song released to country radio. He earned a standing ovation for the song that would become his breakthrough hit, "Long Black Train," during the performance of the song and a second standing ovation following an encore.

"It is with great enthusiasm that we invite Josh to become the newest member of the Grand Ole Opry," said Pete Fisher, Opry vice president and general manager. What began as a magical moment with his debut performance...has grown into a very special relationship with the Opry and the rest of its membership. We look forward to Oct. 27th when Opry member Vince Gill will formally welcome him into our family."