NASHVILLE – Arista Nashville artist/songwriter Carlton Anderson Received a standing ovation and a rousing endorsement from  host Larry Gatlin during his Grand Ole Opry debut at the historic Ryman Auditorium this weekend. 

“I mean this, I mean this,” Gatlin told the crowd with an arm over Anderson’s shoulder. “We’ve had a lot of wonderful, great cats come out here, young people, and I love them, but tonight, I felt something and I heard something…a fellow named Randy Travis. I heard him about 30 years ago and that’s what this reminded me of tonight…This man’s gonna be a great star.”

Anderson marked the occasion by releasing new music he performed during his appearance including “Country Music Made Me Do It” and “Keep Abilene Beautiful.” The new songs are available on all digital retailers and streaming platforms ( HERE).

Anderson has been lauded for his authenticity and bridging the divide between traditional sounds and contemporary themes. He was named one of Rolling Stone’s 10 New Country Artists You Need to Know and was on the list of “Future CMA Nominees” byCowboys & Indians. He wrapped 2018 being named one of Amazon’s Music Best of Country.   Later this month, Anderson is joining the impressive round for the Sundance ASCAP Music Café, which has featured songwriters and artists from a variety of music genres for 20 years. The ACM and Bluebird Café Songwriters Series Featuring Anderson, Deana Carter, Jacob Davis, and Grammy winner Lee Ann Womack, will be held Jan. 30 and 31.     Anderson will appear with Aaron Watson on the following dates: Jan. 17 – Vinyl Music Hall, Pensacola, FL Jan. 18 — Dallas Bull, Tampa, FL Jan. 19 – Terminal West, Atlanta, GA Jan. 26 – 8 Seconds Saloon, Indianapolis, IN