George Strait Honors Fellow Legend With Surprise Country Music Hall of Fame Appearance

Throughout the Country Music Hall of Fame ceremony, country stars like Kenny Chesney and June Carter Cash were inducted. When it came to the Non-Performer category, the Hall of Fame welcomed Tony Brown. Having spent decades in country music, Brown received the chance to work with stars like Reba McEntire, Trisha Yearwood, and even Elvis Presley. But among all the stars he collaborated with – he held his time with George Strait in high regard. And when inducted into the Hall of Fame, Strait himself showed up to celebrate the moment. 

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Packing the CMA Theater in Nashville, Tennessee, the audience received a special treat when Strait appeared on stage. Already being inducted by Vince Gill, Brown could barely contain his excitement as Strait discussed their history. “I appreciate all the records that we were able to make together. I had so much fun with you in the studio. You are an amazing producer and my friend. Congratulations. I’m honored to be here and to do this song.”

@hollercountry

@George Strait celebrates Tony Brown’s induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame with a performance of his much-loved song ‘Troubadour’ at last night’s Medallion Ceremony 🌟🎶 📹: Courtesy of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. #countrymusic #georgestrait #tonybrown

♬ original sound – Holler

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George Strait Is “Elvis Without The Moves”

Deciding to perform “Troubadour”, Strait received more than applause as fans online gushed over the performance. “King George. No one will ever top him.” Another comment read, “Awesome! What a legend! His music is wonderful!” And while Strait might look to retire in the future, he never lost his signature voice. “73 years old, and he still sounds amazing.” 

Getting a chance to speak for himself, Brown was lost for words when it came to the ceremony. Remembering the years of hard work, sleepless nights, and lasting friendships, he said, “All the No. 1s and platinum records are an accomplishment, but this tonight, to me, is validation. This means to me that I made an impact somehow, and I take my job seriously. I love what I do. I love this business.”

As for Strait, Brown once explained what he loved most about the King of Country Music. Again, spending decades in the business, the record producer understood how singers needed to change with the times. But for Strait – “He’s never tried to reinvent himself. A lot of artists do that, but George never has, and it works… He’s Elvis without the moves.” 

(Photo by Terry Wyatt/Getty Images for Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum)