Barbara Mandrell returns to the Grand Ole Opry for 50th anniversary

Mandrell is honored by Carrie Underwood

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Barbara Mandrell has been retired for over two decades

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but she remains an essential member of the Grand Ole Opry, 50 years later.

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The Grammy Award winner made a rare visit at the location to mark her 50th anniversary of joining the exclusive club.

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Carrie Underwood, an eight-time Grammy Award winner, sang the country singer's well-known song "I Was Country Before Country Was Cool" for her.

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Mandrell wrote a thanking message saying, "Lord knows I love the Opry!"

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Since retiring in 1997, Mandrell has largely avoided the spotlight, save any singing for religious services.

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Mandrell was born in Texas and raised in California, but a significant portion of her legacy is the impact she had on Tennessee.

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