Country music star Ricky Skaggs has invited Christian music legend Steven Curtis Chapman to become a member of the Grand Ole Opry.

During his performance on Saturday (July 27), Skaggs caught Chapman off guard by approaching him with a framed photo from Chapman’s Opry debut decades ago. Then, Skaggs shocked everyone by inviting Chapman to join the Opry family.

Chapman made his Opry debut at just 19 years old. He was working as a performer at the now-closed Opryland Theme Park.

“[The archives] have found a picture of [you]. We need to have a picture of this,” Skaggs said, looking around for Chris Hollo, the official Opry photographer. “Get a good picture because this is going to go great beside that picture right there that he’s taking because you are going to be the next member of the Grand Ole Opry, if you want to? Only if you want to!”

Upon hearing the news, Chapman immediately fell to his knees.

Visibly moved by the invitation, he shared that the Opry had become his favorite place to perform, making this honor even more special.

“That is incredible, brother,” Chapman said. “I can not tell you all how surprised I am. This is a massive surprise. I had no idea, and I am so honored and just so grateful. What an amazing family to be a part of. I was thinking when I started singing tonight on this stage, I really did, this is my favorite place to sing these days. I feel at home, I feel like this is my family. Everyone here. I am so honored to be part of this family. Thank you guys. Thank you Jesus, and thank you all.”

Watch the special moment below.

 

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Chapman’s inclusion stands out because audiences primarily recognize him for his Christian music, not his country performances. According to The Tennessean, he’ll be the first major Christian artist to join the Opry since the gospel group The Isaacs in 2021.

With 50 number-one Christian hits and numerous awards, Chapman has left a lasting mark on the music industry. He boasts 59 Dove Awards and 5 Grammys, and he’s sold over 11 million albums throughout his career. Safe to say, he truly deserves this recognition!

The date for Chapman’s official induction is yet to be announced.