Rossell was honored by the audience with a standing ovation
Emotions were running high for Mitch Rossell as he made his debut on the prestigious stage of the Grand Ole Opry this past Saturday night (Dec 17th). While supported by many family and friends who were in attendance for the momentous occasion, and even getting some Opry advice from “Whispering” Bill Anderson, Rossell was not prepared, nor aware, that his friend and mentor, Garth Brooks, was waiting in the shadowed wings of the Opry stage for a surprise introduction.
Before Rossell stepped into the coveted circle for the first time, Garth Brooks appeared from stage left, surprising him (and the audience), as Opry announcer Mike Terry handed over the introduction to Brooks.
“Tonight, I’m getting to do something I’ve never got to do,” said Brooks. “I am getting to introduce a guy for the first time ever on this stage.”
Brooks points out the significance of the Grand Ole Opry to the audience explaining how the stage is where “every country singer’s dreams come true” and continues his introduction by highlighting Rossell’s talent and love for country music, before concluding with, “It is my honor to introduce a great talent and even greater friend, please make welcome Mitch Rossell.“
“I was not expecting that,” says Rossell after giving Brooks a heartfelt hug. “I was having a hard enough time collecting myself back there. I can’t tell you what an honor it is to stand here. I know that’s probably cliché to say, but the energy coming up through this floor; It’s unbelievable. I am just really grateful to be here.”
Rossell went on to perform his highest streaming song, “All I Need To See,” and before he continued with his second song of the night he stopped to explain the meaning behind “Son.”
“I’m gonna try to get through this song,” said Rossell. “This is definitely the most personal thing I’ve ever written. It is a really emotional moment for me for a lot of reasons.”
He continues, “I lost my dad when I was a kid and he’s the reason I picked up the guitar, and he wanted me to play music. Later in life, I decided to start playing guitar to honor that wish…this song is about him.”
The touching ballad tells a multi-generational story of love, family, and loss, based on the actual events of Rossell’s life. The Opry audience received the emotional performance of “Son” and showered the East Tennessee native with a standing ovation.
With a humbling ending to an exciting night, everyone in attendance that evening would be quick to agree with Garth Brooks’ earlier sentiment. Dreams do come true on the Opry stage…just ask Mitch Rossell.
