John Michael Montgomery's career has come to an end. Having begun his path to stardom at the age of 15, the Kentucky native came full circle as he allowed the curtain to come down with a final show at Lexington's Rupp Arena.
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Montgomery got his first big break with "I Love The Way You Love Me," which hit No. 1. The song was his third single release and set him up for future success. In fact, throughout his illustrious career, Montgomery tallied more than 30 Billboard-charting songs, specifically on the Hot Country board.
With a career that spans 33 years, Montgomery can look back with pride, knowing that he achieved every goal he set out with, and likely far more.
However, his hometown crowd honored him in a way that even Montgomery wouldn't have been prepared for in his final show.
John Michael Montgomery Is Being Honored in the Rupp Arena
As Montgomery was wrapping up his show, he learned that the Rupp Arena would honor him by unveiling a banner with his name on it. Family, including his wife Crystal, son Walker and daughter Madison, surrounded Montgomery.
"You never left Kentucky," Walker Montgomery said. "You never moved to Nashville. Kentucky has been your home for all your life... So we're going to have a special surprise for you real quick."
Walker then introduced Brian Sipes, who is the general manager for Rupp Arena.
"When people come into Rupp Arena, they get to look up and they see the greatness of the UK basketball team with banners in the ceiling. And we thought, 'Why would those same people not be able to come here and see a banner in the ceiling to celebrate one of the greatest country music stars who has ever lived?"
As you would expect, Montgomery was visibly emotional at the touching gesture.
"I don't have words," Montgomery said. "...I tell you what, that's the most special thing that's happened to me in my career."
The gesture is a fitting end to a legendary career. And, it's the perfect way to honor a hometown hero. After all, Montgomery ensured he would be near home for his final show. In return, Kentucky found its own way of saying thank you.
