CMT News

Trace Adkins will become the newest member of the Grand Ole Opry, as the first induction since Brad Paisley formally joined the Opry in February of 2001. Adkins' formal induction will take place on Aug. 23.

During Adkins' three-song performance on the Opry Saturday night (June 14), after he finished his current single "Then They Do," Opry member Little Jimmy Dickens walked on stage carrying a small step ladder. The 4-foot-11-inch country music legend sat the ladder down and climbed it until he could look the 6-foot-6-inch Adkins in the eye. "I hope you'll accept my humble apology for interrupting," he said. "I have a very serious question for you. Just how bad would you like to become a member of our Grand Ole Opry family?" Adkins removed his cowboy hat and said, "I want it bad." Adkins told the audience, "I just want you all to know this is one of the happiest nights of my life, and I feel really honored to be here."

Adkins' first appearance on the Grand Ole Opry in November 1996 has remained a memorable one for the Capitol Records artist. Not only was it his Opry debut, but he also proposed to his now-wife Rhonda onstage. Since that time, Adkins has returned to the Opry stage often. His wife and daughters were with him for Saturday night's performance.