Steven Curtis Chapman has been officially inducted into the Grand Ole Opry.
Chapman, who has 50 No.1 hits, made his Opry debut 42 years ago when he was just 19 years old. At that time, he was a performer at Opryland Theme Park singing the songs of Opry greats including George Jones, Ricky Skaggs and more.
The five-time Grammy Award and 60-time Dove award-winning Christian artist was recognized at a special event on Nov. 1.
Grand Ole Opry stars and good friends of Steven, Lady A helped officially induct the talented singer and songwriter.
"Your life and stories through song have shown us how to hold on to our family and faith. You inspire us with these gifts that God has given you. You encourage us with your integrity and your authentic faith," said Lady A. " You radiate a deep love of music and an even deeper love of Jesus every time you step on this circle. And now a member of the Grand Ole Opry, Steven Curtis Chapman."
Chapman gave them all hugs and shared how blessed he felt to receive such an honour.
"More than we can ask or imagine, God has promised,” said Chapman. “I know it doesn’t always look like this moment, but I do believe God has so much more for us. And sometimes we get to see it in very tangible and real ways. Like standing in this circle on stage tonight. As I look down, there is an actual light that glows all the way around it. A full circle, an unbroken circle. God is in front and back and side to side, he has us surrounded.”
He ended off the evening performing two songs, one he wrote specifically for that night, "Grand Old Opry Stage' and "Will the Circle Be Unbroken."