NEAL McCOY TO BECOME NEWEST GRAND OLE OPRY MEMBER

History was made last night (September 22) at the Grand Ole Opry, as the Opry dedicated a special show to Charley Pride and his enduring legacy. But, that was only part of the excitement of the evening as the Opry 100 Honors Charley Pride performances included songs and words from Pride’s mentee and close friend, Neal McCoy. After McCoy’s stunning tribute to Pride, he was greeted by Opry member, Pam Tillis, for the surprise of a lifetime.

Tillis invited Pride’s wife, Rozene Pride onstage to continue the honors, when suddenly, she said “Charley would be so happy with what you’re going to do next, Pam.”

McCoy earned his invitation to join the Grand Ole Opry as an official member from Tillis. “Oh my gosh. What a great night. What a great night to be invited,” said McCoy. His induction will occur later this year with the date to be announced soon.

McCoy has made 15 records, earned multiple gold and platinum albums and Humanitarian honors from the Academy of Country Music, Country Radio Broadcasters, and Masonic Grand Lodge. He’s been on 17 USO tours across the globe, and continues to be actively involved in his East Texas Angel Network foundation which he founded in 1995.

The Opry 100 Honors Charley Pride event additionally hosted performances from Darius Rucker, Dion Pride, Tony Jackson, The Malpass Brothers, The War & Treaty and Tillis.

Photo L-R: Allyson Shaheer/Charley’s niece, Rozene Pride, Neal McCoy, and Pam Tillis // Photo Credit: Chris Hollo for the Grand Ole Opry