Country singer Mandy Barnett is the newest artist to join the Grand Ole Opry family. Barnett, who's performed on the Opry stage over 500 times, officially joined the family circle on Tuesday night (Nov. 2).
Known for her dedication to classic country, R&B and popular standards, Barnett first rose to fame as the star of Always...Patsy Cline, a jukebox musical about Patsy Cline.
Barnett was joined on stage during her Tuesday night set by Cline's daughter Julie Fudge, who presented Barnett with an autographed photo of her mom and a canceled check for $50. Per a press release, "the check was written for cash so Cline could make a trip to Houston, where Cline likely spent time with her fan and friend Louise Seger. Cline's friendship with Seger is at the heart of [Always...Patsy Cline]."
Barnett's membership was then made official by Marty Stuart.
"Many meaningful ladies have sung at this microphone, and I can't think of anyone who was more born for this moment than you," Stuart said. "Five-hundred and twenty times- that's how many times you've now played the Opry. That's a long audition! On behalf of the cast, staff and all the members, we welcome you with open arms and deepest hearts."
Connie Smith invited Barnett to join the Opry on her birthday (Sept. 28) while reading from Barnett's birthday card.
"You've felt like family since we first met, and on this, your special day, we're honored to invite you to become an official member of the Grand Ole Opry!" Smith said.
Barnett reflected on making her Opry debut over 20 years ago.
"This is the happiest day of my life!," she said in September. "I came here back in the 80's and met so many of the greats that came before me like Roy Acuff, Minnie Pearl, Jean Shepard, Billy Walker — and you Connie. I made my Opry debut in 1994 and I've had so many supporters who have rooted for me and been nice to me all these years."
Barnett is also set to appear in each of the Opry's four "Opry Country Christmas" shows debuting this coming holiday season at the Opry House.
"Night after night, year after year, we've been astounded by Mandy's magnificent performances. She loves the Opry and the Opry loves her right back. It's a great match now and will be for years to come," Opry vice president and executive producer Dan Rogers said.
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In 2020, Barnett released A Nashville Songbook. Her latest album is Every Star Above, a celebration of Billie Holiday's Lady in Satin.
