I love this news.
This should’ve happened years ago…but it’s better late than never. Neal McCoy was finally invited to become the newest official member of the Grand Ole Opry on September 22, 2026.
Pam Tillis surprised Neal on stage at the Grand Ole Opry House during the special “Opry 100 Honors Charley Pride” show. Charley Pride’s widow, Rozene Pride, joined the emotional, full-circle moment on stage too. Charley actually helped jumpstart Neal’s career in the 1980s by taking him on tour as an opening act. Neal literally learned from one of the best.
Neal deserves this invite due to his love, respect and representation of country music. Not to mention his love for the country. He does the pledge of allegiance live on his Facebook ever morning and he’s been doing that for years now. The man is a country music saint to me.
An official induction date has not yet been announced…but as soon we know…we will share that date.