Since his induction in 1986, Randy Travis has experienced quite a few special moments at the Grand Ole Opry. Six years after suffering a near-fatal stroke in 2013, the country music legend managed to perform his 1987 hit “Forever and Ever, Amen” on the Opry stage for his 60th birthday celebration. Just this March, Travis brought a national TV audience to tears after Carrie Underwood’s heartfelt tribute to his career during the venerated institution’s 100th celebration. And when he heard that Netflix’s Love on the Spectrum star Tyler White was performing his 1988 hit “Deeper Than the Holler,” Travis decided to congratulate him in person.
Videos by American Songwriter
Watch Randy Travis Surprise Tyler White Onstage
Billing himself as “The Cowboy Aspie,” Tyler White appeared on season 3 of Netflix’s Love on the Spectrum. There, he found love with current girlfriend Madison Marilla.
Knowing White’s love for country music, podcaster Dillon Weldon conspired with Dan Rogers, vice president and executive producer for the Grand Ole Opry, to invite the 28-year-old onstage. He made his debut Saturday (June 21) singing Randy Travis’ “Deeper Than the Holler” on country music’s most hallowed stage.
Written by Opry member Don Schlitz, “Deeper Than the Holler” appeared on Travis’ third studio album, Old 8×10. The song gave Travis his sixth consecutive No. 1 hit, and eighth overall.
After White wrapped his performance, the announcer declared, “Ladies and gentlemen,” Randy Travis.” The awestruck Love on the Spectrum star is heard saying, “Oh my God,” as the seven-time Grammy winner makes his way onstage with the support of his wife, Mary Davis.
Tipping his hat to his idol, White and Travis lock arms as Davis tells him, “Tyler, we just want to say thank you so much for loving country music, especially some Randy Travis. Thank you for loving the Lord and for finding the silver linings in life. You are such an inspiration to so many.”
She then passed the microphone to her husband, who said simply, “Thank you,” and embraced White.
The Opry shared a clip of the tender interaction to social media, and several fans weighed in. “What an amazing moment- God Bless Randy Travis a true country music icon!” one wrote.
Another added, “Seein Randy walk after what he’s been though even if it’s assisted makes me cry.” Travis, 66, suffered a near-fatal stroke in 2013 that left him with just a 1 percent chance for survival. He has limited his public appearances since his subsequent diagnosis with aphasia, which severely affects his ability to communicate.
Featured image by Shutterstock
Leave a Reply
Only members can comment. Become a member. Already a member? Log in.