The big event included presentations and recognitions from Nashville Mayor Karl Dean, Adjutant of Tennessee Major General Gus Hargett, Charlie’s longtime manager David Corlew and other dignitaries. Charlie also received a letter from President George W. Bush and a certificate of merit from the governor of Tennessee, Phil Bredesen. Before the celebration, Charlie talked about his career with several members of the Nashville media. Charlie noted that the most significant changes in the music industry over the years are technology and the speed at which the business operates. “The industry’s gotten a lot faster,” Charlie explained. “There doesn’t seem to be a commitment to the artist and artist development.”