Rising star Jake Worthington stepped into the coveted Grand Ole Opry Circle for the first time on Friday, July 21, marking the young country singer’s debut on the legendary stage.
Worthington delivered an impressive performance with the upbeat and playful “Single At The Same Time,” heartbreaking “State You Left Me In” and the acoustic ballad “Closing Time.” The artist was rewarded with a standing ovation.
“This Is The Greatest Honor”
“I wouldn’t change a thing about my life, and being here is a really big reason why,” explained Worthington with tears in his eyes during an emotional moment in The Circle. “This is the greatest honor, to be here on the stage where all my heroes stood.”
Jake Worthington expressed his deep appreciation for the unforgettable opportunity by tipping his cowboy hat as he exited the stage.
Career-Altering Performance
Worthington took to Instagram to share a heartfelt caption following the career-altering performance.
“I’ve dreamed a time or two in my life. All I can say is thank you to the Grand Ole Opry and each & everyone involved in seeing a young man’s dream a reality,” wrote Jake. “I feel as if my words won’t do due justice to the feeling I know I felt, but my family, friends, co-writers, and all the folks that have been in my corner along the way.”
He continued, “I’m incredibly honored to have gotten to stand where, so many have stood. I’ve not had the experience myself to see things like this happen first-hand til now. I have many people to thank, way to much not enough time to think [and] I wasn’t sure it was ever gonna happen, but so many people in my life believed it would [and] I believe in the power of a song, and I believe in country music. Don’t quit. We done did the damn thing!”
Shared A Special Moment With Marty Stuart
Worthington grew up listening to country icons including George Jones, Keith Whitley, Merle Haggard and more, resulting in Jake setting his sights on making his Opry debut at a very young age. Worthington thought so highly of the country music pillar that he refrained from watching a show until he had the privilege of earning a performance at the hallowed hall.
The Texas native received his invitation to make his Opry debut from legend Marty Stuart early last month during a performance at the Ryman Auditorium. Jake and Marty shared a special moment onstage as the “Same Old Train” singer gave him the offer of a lifetime.
“Well I’m glad your mama and daddy and wife are here tonight. They can finally see that you have finally amounted to something,” joked Stuart. “Only one thing to add to the standing ovation at the Ryman is on behalf of the Grand Ole Opry. If you’re available on July the 21st, they would like to know if you would debut on the Grand Ole Opry.”
Touring
Additionally, Worthington is only heating up, as he is set to deliver live performances of tracks from his self-titled debut album to fans across the world at fairs and festivals, such as TidalWave Music Festival, Illinois State Fair, State Fair of Texas and Gordy’s Hwy 30 Music Fest – Texas Edition.
He will also act as support on ERNEST’s This Fire Tour this fall, in addition to opening slots for various dates with Lainey Wilson and Ian Munsick.
