On Wednesday 30 October 2019, Adkins Publicity announced that Gene Watson had been named 'Honorary Kentucky Colonel', following a performance at Kentucky Opry in Benton, KY, on Friday 25 October 2019.

Legendary country vocalist Gene Watson was honoured with the commission of 'Kentucky Colonel' during his show at Kentucky Opry.

While on stage in Benton, Kentucky, Bill Cates, a longtime fan of Gene Watson's, presented the honour on behalf of Governor Mathew Bevins.

The Kentucky Colonels were established in 1813 and notable honorees include Winston Churchill (30 November 1874 - Sunday 24 January 1965), John Glenn, Clark Gable (1 February 1901 - Wednesday 16 November 1960), Bing Crosby (3 May 1903 - Friday 14 October 1977), John Edgar Hoover (1 January 1895 - Tuesday 2 May 1972), Elvis Presley (Tuesday 8 January 1935 - Tuesday 16 August 1977), Roy Rogers (Sunday 5 November 1911 - Monday 6 July 1998), and now, Gene Watson.

'I am so humbled to receive this honour and be in the company of such renowned individuals.

I have always enjoyed performing in the great state of Kentucky and look forward to coming back for more!' said Gene Watson.

The commission of 'Kentucky Colonel' is the highest title of honour bestowed by the Governor of Kentucky.  It is recognition of an individual’s noteworthy accomplishments and outstanding service to the community, state and nation.

 

This honour comes on the heels of Gene Watson's monumental year, which included three consecutive No.1 singles from his album, 'My Gospel Roots' (Fourteen Carat Music, 2017), and the 40th anniversary of his hit single, 'Farewell Party', which was written by Lawton Williams (Monday 24 July 1922 - Thursday 26 July 2007).

Gene Watson, an in-demand performer, is celebrating the career milestone by taking his octave-jumping performance on the road for more than 80 dates in 2019.



Source
Scott Adkins and Kelli Wasilauski
Adkins Publicity