FILE - In this April 1, 2012 file photo, Darius Rucker arrives at the 47th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards in Las Vegas. Rucker was surprised Tuesday night, Oct. 2, 2012 by Brad Paisley, who invited Rucker to become a member of the Grand Ole Opry. (AP Photo/Isaac Brekken, File)
October 02, 2012 - 10:18 PM
NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Darius Rucker's conversion to country is now complete: He's joining the Grand Ole Opry.
Rucker performed on Tuesday night's Opry and received a visit from unannounced guest Brad Paisley, who surprised him with the invitation.
The singer rose to fame as the frontman for South Carolina rockers Hootie & The Blowfish, but began to pursue his lifelong passion for country music a few years ago. He will release his third country album early next year.
The 46-year-old is the third black performer to hold Opry membership, joining Country Music Hall of Fame members DeFord Bailey and Charley Pride.
Rucker will be inducted into the Opry on Oct. 16. That show will air live on GAC.
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News from © The Associated Press, 2012