Photo: Grand Ole Opry, photos by Chris Hollo
Jon Pardi is officially the first California-born country star who is a member of the Grand Ole Opry. The Mr. Saturday Night hitmaker was officially welcomed into Opry by fellow member and country music giant Garth Brooks, which came as “an overwhelming surprise” to Pardi during his induction on Tuesday evening (October 24), per a press release recapping the long-awaited induction.
Brooks handed Pardi his official Opry member award as the duo stepped into the iconic Opry circle.
“I tell you what, brother. Be careful what you wish for right here, because your life is about to go into warp speed now,” the “Friends In Low Places” megastar said, going on to tell the story of how he met Pardi and . “This is me and you joined in holy matrimony shared by our love of country music.”
“It’s full circle to watch my hero, from flying around an arena in concert to right now,” Pardi said. “I love the Opry and being a part of its family. The future is so bright.”
Fans can watch or relive Pardi’s Opry induction and performance when it airs on Circle All Access Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube on November 18, per the release.
Pardi was officially invited to become an Opry member during his set at Stagecoach Music Festival in April. He received the news from country music legend Alan Jackson, who appeared via video chat: “The Grand Ole Opry has always meant a whole lot to me and everyone in country music. I’ve been appreciating your music ever since you were touring with me a few years ago. I get the honor to invite you in front of all your Stagecoach friends to be the first native of California to become an official member of the Grand Ole Opry.”
Pardi said at that time that he’d been chasing his dream in Nashville since he was 22 years old, and said “now I’m here. I love you guys, and I love country music.” Now 38, the “Your Heart Or Mine” superstar and newest Opry member.