The Opry at the Ryman was the place to be on Saturday night (Dec. 17) when Brad Paisley helped unveil Madame Tussauds Nashville wax figure of Grand Ole Opry legend Little Jimmy Dickens.

While the new location for Madame Tussauds is set to open in spring of 2017, country fans got an early glimpse at Dickens' exhibit during Paisley's performance.

“I’m floored at the likeness,” Paisley says of the wax figure. “Jimmy gave the Opry the personality it deserved. He was the kindest to new artists of anybody. He was never judgmental and he was always extremely supportive. He was a man who loved everyone and I’m honored to sing one of his songs.”

Paisley performed Dickens' “Out Behind the Barn” while the life size imitation of the late icon sat beside him on the Ryman stage as a sold-out audience looked on. The wax figure portrays Dickens from the 1960s, complete with his signature rhinestone-studded suits designed by his original tailors as well as a JD ring, cowboy boots and cowboy hat.

According to a press release, Dickens' friendly, relaxed expression was decided by his wife so guests had the opportunity to "experience the twinkle in his eye."

Little Jimmy Dickens was a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame and was inducted into the Grand Ole Opry over 60 years ago. He was the oldest living member of the Opry before his death in early 2015.

The Nashville location of Madame Tussauds will be the first in the U.S. that
focuses solely on music icons that have shaped America’s musical landscape. In addition to a wax figure of Little Jimmy Dickens, the establishment will include Carrie Underwood, Stevie Wonder, Taylor Swift, Beyonce, Minnie Pearl and Johnny Cash with additional artists being announced in the coming weeks.

See Pictures of Little Jimmy Dickens Through the Years

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