When Carly Pearce was 16-years-old, her parents let her drop out of high school, and move to Pigeon Forge, TN with her mom, to become a performer at Dollywood. And since she was as little girl, Carly has dreamed of becoming a member of the Grand Ole Opry, so when Dolly surprised her last week with an invitation to become the newest member of the Opry, Carly says, “It’s the most full circle, unbelievable moment I think I’ve ever had in my life. The fact that she took the time to do that for me and what she means to me, it was the best moment I think I’ve had so far in this journey. I mean, this is truly all I’ve ever wanted.”
Becoming a member of the Grand Ole Opry is an ultimate symbol of acceptance into the country music family, and Carly says, “I always just wanted to matter in country music, and the fact that I have a seat at the table is something that I will never ever take for granted.”
While Carly’s mom was the first person she called after being surprised by Dolly, she had a very special champagne celebration when she got home with her adorable Maltese puppy, June Jolene Carter. “So, June has a little toy that’s a champagne bottle – so I poured real champagne, she held hers,” shares Carly. “I explained to her that she came into my life with a hit song and awards, and now we’re an Opry member, and she’s gotta stay humble. I said, ‘You’re becoming a little bit of royalty and you’ve gotta just stay humble, because it’s not always going to be like this. Mom will struggle at times. You’re coming in just really privileged, so we have to make sure you’re not feeling privileged.”
Carly will officially be inducted into the Grand Ole Opry on August 3rd, and we feel confident that Carly will make sure June doesn’t let all of her mom’s success go to her head.
