Keith Urban First Aussie Inducted Into Exclusive Country Music Club

New Zealand born and Australian raised Keith Urban, who has become a country superstar in America, was inducted into the illustrious and exclusive Grand Ole Opry membership this weekend past.

The Opry is a weekly country music concert in Nashville, Tennessee, which has been broadcasting since 1925. As well as the stage show and broadcasts, membership into the Opry is one of the highest achievements for a country musician. Members have included Johnny Cash, Hank Williams (who was banned in 1952 for his chronic drunkeness), The Louvin Brothers (plus Ira and Charlie Louvin separately), Marty Robbins, Emmylou Harris, Dolly Parton, Tammy Wynette, Loretta Lynn and Alison Kraus.

It is believed that Urban is the first Australian to receive the honour of membership.

He received the membership award from Trace Adkins on the weekend, after he performed his tracks Days Go By and Without You. Billboard reports that following the presentation he used a pocket-knife given to him by fellow member Marty Stuart to add his name plaque to the Member Gallery and cut a Fender guitar shaped cake.

In his acceptance speech an emotional Urban thanked his parents, wife, Nicole Kidman, and children.

Tearing up he said, "It's a long way from Caboolture to the stage here at the Grand Ole Opry so I want to send a shout out back to Australia and the country music community. And to stand in this circle is the most phenomenal thing."

Urban was referencing the large circle of wood front and centre, of the Opry's, which was cut from the original stage at the Ryman Auditorium, which the Opry moved to in 1943.

 Watch the induction below: