The Country Music Hall of Fame medallion ceremony was worth watching until the very last second. George Strait, Connie Smith and Loretta Lynn joined one of the newest members, Alan Jackson, for an unforgettable version of "Will the Circle Be Unbroken?"

It was as incredible as you'd expect. It's difficult to watch the quartet singing without recognizing how precious the moment truly was. Lynn turned 85 in April and suffered a devastating stroke in May. Her appearance to honor Jackson was her first since beginning recovery at home, but with Smith and Strait's support, she joyfully took the stage and sang along.

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The typically-reserved Jackson was floating with jubilance as he performed with his three friends and contemporaries. During his speech he cracked jokes at his own expense and told stories of how he got to Nashville and why he leans so hard into sad songs. The late Jerry Reed and songwriter Don Schlitz ("The Gambler") were also inducted on Sunday night (Oct. 22).

 

Strait is still an active recording artist who sometimes plays Las Vegas, while Smith remains a Grand Ole Opry mainstay. Jackson wrapped another successful tour and announced plans for a new album just days before being enshrined. His new single "The Older I Get" is indeed a sad song that tells a story in a way only Jackson can tell it.

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