Sara Evans is the newest member of the Grand Ole Opry! The singer, was invited to join by Bill Anderson, with a little help from Lady A and Carly Pearce in August, while headlining her own show at Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium. Crystal Gayle officially inducted Evans.

“I have so many people to thank … it takes a lot, a lot, a lot of people to get one person to a position like this,” Evans said from stage. “Starting with my mom, who realized that my brothers and sisters and I had musical talent, so she went out and bought music equipment and hired musicians. By the time I was six years old, I was singing in bars, and everywhere you can imagine, all over Missouri.”

Evans’ entire family was in attendance, including her brother, Matt, who performs in her band. She also acknowledged her daughter, Olivia, and son, Avery, who were performing in her band, along with her daughter, Audrey, who was in the audience.

“I wanna thank the Opry, for asking me to become a member,” Evans continued. “This is a country artist’s dream come true, and I have been dreaming about this my entire life.”

Evans went on to thank her husband and children, along with her manager and the people who have helped her in her career that has spanned more than 25 years.

“Most importantly, above everything, I want to thank my Heavenly Father,” Evans remarked. “My faith in the Lord has been the one constant in my life, that has gotten me through good times, bad times. And y’all, I’ve had a dramatic life I got hit by a car when I was eight. Almost died in a plane crash. There’s been a few other near-death experiences. God has just always been there, watching over me and protecting me. Not just protecting me, but blessing me with three amazing children, and just a voice to sing country music.

“It doesn’t matter what song I’m singing, you can always hear this country voice that comes from growing up on a farm in Missouri, and my parents listening to country music,” she concluded. “God bless you. Thank you so much for this great honor. Thank you Grand Ole Opry for this amazing honor. I really, really appreciate it, and I’ll never forget this night.”

Evans’ Grand Ole Opry induction took place as part of the Opry’s 98th birthday weekend celebration. Jon Pardi is the next artist to be inducted, on October 24th. Find all of the Opry’s upcoming shows at Opry.com.