Grand Ole Opry Inducts Latest Member, Darius Rucker.
On October 16, Darius Rucker received his Opry Member Award, becoming the newest member of the country family. His actual family joined him backstage to add his plaque to the Opry Member Gallery at the Grand Ole Opry House.
Vince Gill presented the Opry Member Award by thanking Darius:
“I don’t think there’s a more beloved guy in our music than you. Before you even open your mouth and sing a song you’ve written, everybody is really crazy about you. You will find this place right here to be one of the greatest homes you’ll ever have. … Thanks for wanting to be a country music singer!”
Darius thanked Vince, his family, and his fans as he gratefully accepted the honor. One of his favorite singers, Keith Urban, sent a video congratulations, but then joined Darius on the stage to personally congratulate him. They were also joined by Football Hall of Famer Dan Marino.
I became a fan of the soulful, distinct Rucker voice as a fan of Hootie and the Blowfish, but I fell in love with that voice the first time I heard “All I Want.” One listen to either of his albums (Learn to Live and Charleston, SC 1966), and you’ll quickly realize why he deserves this award. Congratulations, Darius!
To watch Rucker’s induction, head on over to opry.com/pressroom/darius