Alan Jackson recently surprised his great-niece with a phone call that turned into a dream-come-true moment.
Alan became a member of the Grand Ole Opry on June 7, 1991. To celebrate the 35th anniversary of his induction, the Opry enlisted his help to ask a special young artist to make her Opry debut. That artist just so happens to be Alan’s great-niece, Carlisle Wright.
On June 8, Alan’s team shared a video of Carlisle talking to her great uncle on the phone. She adorably called him “Uncle Hat” as they chatted for a bit about her recent shows and busy schedule.
Alan mentioned his Opry anniversary, and Carlisle congratulated him. Then, Carlisle broke down in tears as Alan said, “They asked me to call you today to extend you an invitation to make your Opry debut on June 28th.”
Carlisle was overcome with emotion and apologized for crying as she said, “Thank you, Uncle Hat.”
Alan wanted to make sure she wasn’t sad, and she reassured him she was incredibly happy. When he asked, “Do you accept the invitation?” she answered, “Yes, sir, I accept the invitation.“
Alan left her with some sweet, simple advice, saying, “Keep it country, celebrate, and enjoy your Opry debut.”
Watch the video below to witness the emotional moment when Alan Jackson surprised his great-niece with the invitation to make her Grand Ole Opry debut.
Who Is Country Singer Carlisle Wright, Alan Jackson’s Great-Niece?
Carlisle Wright is a 19-year-old student at Belmont University in Nashville. Her official website highlights her family’s country music roots, describing her as “a fourth-generation singer/songwriter of Southern-style songs.”
Carlisle has released a five-track EP of original music titled Does Forever Mean Forever. She’s also performed on numerous radio stations and has opened for acts such as The Nelson Brothers, Jamie Floyd, Michaela Anne, and, of course, her “Uncle Hat,” Alan Jackson.
Earlier this year, Carlisle released a new song, titled “Half My Heroes.” The song received a shout-out from Alan, who said he was “so proud” of her upon its release. He also highlighted her then-recent win at Belmont University’s Country Showcase. Now, she’s just weeks away from singing at the Grand Ole Opry!
It’s worth noting that June 28, the day of Carlisle’s Opry debut, is the day after Alan Jackson’s final concert on June 27th. The sold-out show will be held at Nashville’s Nissan Stadium, featuring performances from Alan and an all-star lineup of other artists, including Carlisle.
Needless to say, that will be a jam-packed weekend for the young singer! Listen to her song “Half My Heroes” in the clip below.
