Garth Brooks surprises Mitch Rossell at his Grand Ole Opry debut

Country singer and songwriter Mitch Rossell got an unexpected surprise during his debut on the Grand Ole Opry stage when his friend and mentor, Garth Brooks, came out to give him an official Opry introduction. Rossell co-wrote Brooks’ 2017 hit “Ask Me How I Know,” and recently collaborated with Brooks’ wife Trisha Yearwood on the 2021 single “Ran Into You.” The 29-year-old Rossell shared a video of the moment on Instagram.

Said Brooks during his introduction of Rossell: “Tonight I’m getting to introduce a guy for the first time ever on this stage … Try to understand that in Nashville, people, it’s regular that the guy that’s waiting on your table plays better guitar than you, sings better than you, writes better than you. There is a level that, once you get to, nobody’s better than anybody else. What I’m saying is, this cat is on that level. There might be somebody that’s as good of a songwriter, but they’re not better. There might be somebody that’s as good of a singer, but they’re not better. This guy also is one of the greatest men I’ve ever gotten to be around in my life. Great father. Great husband. He’s got his head on straight. But the favorite thing about this guy that you’ll love, and I love, you’ll get it immediately how much this guy loves country music. This guy is a dream. It is my honor to introduce a great talent and an even greater friend.”

Rossell said: “I was not expecting that … I can’t tell you what an honor it is to stand here … I am just really grateful to be here.” He went on to perform his 2019 single “All I Need To See” and “Son,” the title track off his 2022 album. He also shared on Facebook: “Last night, I made my Grand Ole Opry debut, and let me just tell you it was perfect. I had so many family and friends there, and it was overwhelming how many of y’all drove and flew from all over to come watch my set … I can’t believe I got to live last night. I am so grateful for the opportunities I’ve been given and the people I’ve been able to share it with.”