NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Country music legend Gene Watson was inducted into the Grand Ole Opry family this evening by Opry member Steve Wariner. 

“I remember my induction night as humbling and overwhelming,” said Wariner. “But tonight, it’s about Gene who is a great ambassador for country music and one of the best interpreters of a country song that ever lived.” 

After an introduction on stage by Opry announcer Eddie Stubbs who claimed Watson as one of the  most respected voices in country music history, Watson came center stage. “It’s hard to find the words to say, so I guess better than talking I ought to sing,” said Watson. “So many people contributed to this wonderful night, and I make a promise to everyone to keep up the tradition of country music,” he continued before delivering his hits “Got No Reason Now For Goin’ Home” and “Fourteen Carat Mind.” 

After receiving his Opry member award and holding it high, Watson closed his set to a standing ovation with a flawless performance of his classic “Farewell Party.” 

About Gene Watson:
From his chart-topping soulful gospel albums to his No. 1 country standards, few artists have left a more indelible mark on America's musical landscape than Gene Watson. As the newest member of the Grand Ole Opry, Watson has been thrilling audiences for more than 50 years. This masterful country stylist from Houston, Texas, known as “The Singer’s Singer,” has more than 75 charted titles, 23 Top 10 hits, six No. 1 country singles and three No. 1 gospel hits. Watson is also a member of the Texas Country Music Hall of Fame and the Houston, Texas Music Hall of Fame. Fans are still transfixed whenever Watson performs classics like “Farewell Party,” “Fourteen Carat Mind” or “Love in the Hot Afternoon.” A road warrior and considered one of the finest pure-country singers of his generation, Watson offers up one of the best traditional country shows in the business. For more information, visit GeneWatsonMusic.com
 
About the Grand Ole Opry:
The Grand Ole Opry® is presented by Humana®.  Opry performances are held every Friday and Saturday of the year, with Tuesday night shows February 4 through December, plus seasonal Wednesday shows and Thursday Opry Country Classics performances. To plan an Opry visit, call (800) SEE-OPRY or visit opry.com. The Opry presents the best in country music live every week from Nashville, Tenn.  Celebrating nine decades of entertainment, the Opry can be heard at opry.com and wsmonline.com, Opry and WSM mobile apps, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, and its flagship home, 650 AM-WSM. The Grand Ole Opry is owned by Ryman Hospitality Properties (NYSE: RHP).  For more information, visit opry.com.

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GENE WATSON MEDIA CONTACTS:
Scott Adkins / scott@adkinspublicity.com
Kelli Wasilauski / kelli@adkinspublicity.com

GENE WATSON MANAGEMENT CONTACT:
Sarah Brosmer / Sarah@lytlemgmt.com

GENE WATSON BOOKING CONTACT:
Rob Battle / RBattleArtistAgent@United.net

GRAND OLE OPRY MEDIA CONTACTS:
Jessie Schmidt / Jessie@schmidtpr.com 
Dixie Owen / Dixie@schmidtpr.com