Mark Wills is definitely looking forward to the coming year following his invitation to become a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Last December 20, Vince Gill surprised Wills with an invitation to join the prestigious organization. At the end of the evening, the country singer and songwriter received a worthy present few days before Christmas. That’s when Gill announced his Opry induction invitation.

The Unexpected Present

Onstage, Wills was only trying to take a selfie with the “I Still Believe” singer when he asked a question that made him drop to his knees.

“We at the Opry would like to ask you to become the next member of the Grand Ole Opry.”

Wills couldn’t contain his astonishment so he went on to shed some tears of joy while Gill embraced him as he continued with his lines. He first praised Wills for his contributions to the organization. Moreover, after realizing that the guy in front of him is a weeper like he is, Gill can’t help but admire Wills all the more.

“This boy has been the greatest supporter and proponent of what the Opry stands for. Now I like him even more — he’s a crybaby like me!”

With much joy in his heart, Wills accepted the invitation and went on to perform his single “Don’t Laugh at Me” to end the show. Countless Opry members joined him making the program end on a high note.

Wills will be officially inducted into the longest-running country music stage show on January 11, 2019.

Listen to Wills’ “Don’t Laugh at Me” below.

A Quick Look at Wills’ Career 

Shortly after MarkWills began his country music career in 1996, he started playing the Grand Ole Opry. This means to say that he isn’t a stranger to Opry members and to the famous stage. His time spent with the famous country music stage show confirmsGill’s words earlier emphasizing Wills’ support for the program. Wills won an ACM Top New Male Vocalist award and charted eight hits on the Top 10. He scored two chart-toppers namely “Wish You Were Here” and “19 Something.” The latter was considered his biggest charting hit to date staying at No. 1 for seven weeks.

Here’s Wills’ top hit “19 Something.”