2019 Country Music Hall of Fame Picks & Prognostications
As we turn the calendar to March, it’s time again to consider who might be in the running for the precious few spots as the newest inductees into the Country Music Hall of Fame. At about this time, a secret committee commissioned by the CMA is going over their final ballots and whittling down the precious names to the few who will make it, as those on the outside of the process do their best to promote who they believe should be picked. The names of the eventual inductees will likely be revealed in late March or early April in a press conference that will be held in the Hall of Fame rotunda.
Unlike other Halls of Fame, the Country Music Hall of Fame tries to keep the institution distinguished by letting only a few names in each year. This way a bad name never slips through the process, hypothetically. This has also caused a glut of good names being left out in recent years, stirring controversy in itself, especially when it comes to Veterans Era inductees. But it also keeps the honor exclusive and distinguished.
The Rules
The Country Music Hall of Fame inductees are selected through a committee process appointed by the Country Music Association(CMA). Since 2010, the selection process has been split up into three categories. 1) Modern Era – Eligible for induction 20 years after they first achieve “national prominence.” 2) Veterans Era – Eligible for induction 45 years after they first achieve “national prominence.” 3) Non-Performer, Songwriter, and Recording and/or Touring Musician active prior to 1980 – Rotates every 3 years. With a songwriter, Don Schlitz, selected in 2017, and a musician, Johnny Gimble, selected in 2018, it would be a non-performer’s turn up to bat in 2019. Non performers can be individuals who may have been performers during their careers as well, but are mostly recognized for their work behind-the-scenes, such as a label executive, producer, promoter, or journalist.
Since 2001, anywhere from 2 to 4 names have been added to the Hall of Fame each year. Usually one name from the above mentioned categories makes it per year, but if no name gets enough of a majority vote, a category may not be represented in a given year. Or, if two names get enough votes from a category, then both may come from that category.
Another important rule is that no candidate is eligible for the Hall of Fame a year after they pass away. This is to avoid sympathy votes in the aftermath of an artist dying. In recent years, this has accelerated artists being inducted before they die to avoid the one year penalty, and to honor them while they’re still living.
Potential Modern Era Inductees
One of the biggest questions always looming over the Modern Era category is where you start the clock. By rule it is “20 years after you achieve national prominence,” but where that 20 years starts is the big question. This especially applies to artists such as Hank Williams Jr. and Tanya Tucker, since their careers had two tiers, and started when they were very young, though most now consider them candidates in the much more crowded Veterans Era.
2019 will be very interesting in the Modern Era category. For years there has been a sure bet gaggle of shoo-in’s such as Ricky Skaggs, Alan Jackson, Randy Travis, the Oak Ridge Boys, and so on at the top. Now the field feels a lot more wide open. Does Dwight Yoakam go in next due to his cultural significance, or is it Brooks & Dunn as the big commercial powerhouse sitting on the bubble? Could it perhaps be Keith Whitley’s year, or will Travis Tritt be the Dark Horse? Do they dare put Kenny Chesney in before the aforementioned names due to his massive touring capacity for so many years, or does Marty Stuart go in for his devotion to the music beyond a performer? This feels like it could go to any one of these in 2019. There’s more intrigue behind this pick than there’s been for years.
• Last Year’s Modern Era Inductee: Ricky Skaggs
• Saving Country Music Prediction: Brooks & Dunn
• Saving Country Music’s Final Ballot: Dwight Yoakam, Keith Whitley, and Brooks & Dunn (in that order).
– – – – – – – – – –
Dwight Yoakam: You’d think with 25 million records sold, Dwight Yoakam should definitely be considered for Hall of Fame distinction, but maybe Dwight’s considered a bit of a niche act by some in Nashville. Yoakam’s greatest contribution beyond the gaudy sales numbers comes in the influence he had in country music in his time, and that he still wields today over generations of performers. Dwight Yoakam made country music cool to millions, just like Hall of Famer Buck Owens and other Bakersfield legends did in their time. Dwight’s also not showing any signs of slowing down, and has earned additional stripes as a country music ambassador through his acting career. Now with Alan Jackson and Ricky Skaggs finally out of the way and a recently-launched SiriusXM station dedicated to Dwight, it feels like Yoakam has finally graduated from a future hopeful for the Hall of Fame to a bona fide front runner.
Brooks & Dunn: The duo was a commercial powerhouse if there ever was one, though their career was somewhat overshadowed by the success of Garth during the “Class of ’89” era. Their first album Brand New Man sold 6 million copies, and they won the CMA for Vocal Duo of the Year every year but one between 1992 and 2006—a pretty incredible feat. Their success is not debatable, but did they have the type of influence to be considered over others in such a crowded field, at least at the moment? And does the fact that they only operate as a duo part time now hurt them, or are they helped by the fact that Ronnie Dunn has a fairly successful solo career, and Kix Brooks has become one of the strongest voices in country radio through his American Country Countdown show?
Brooks & Dunn will also receive an additional boost this year from their Reboot project pairing them with a bunch of today’s stars in re-recordings of some of their biggest hits. This has put their name and legacy back in front of Hall of Fame voters right as final ballots are being cast. They will also be receiving a dedicated exhibit in the Hall museum come August, which is another good sign that voting members might be ready to give them a full induction.
Keith Whitley: Keith Whitley started in country music as a member of Ralph Stanley’s bluegrass band. In 1988, Whitley had two #1 singles “When You Say Nothing At All” and “I’m No Stranger to the Rain” off the album Don’t Close Your Eyes, and was expected to become a superstar in country music in the coming years. However on May 9th, 1989, Keith Whitley died of what was ruled as alcohol poisoning, and never got to reap the rewards of the career he’d worked to build. He was 33-years-old. Garth Brooks specifically named Whitley as someone he believed should have been inducted before him. To get into the Hall of Fame, you don’t just need a good resume, you need a good, dedicated push and a promotional campaign that can get the attention of the right people on the committee and make a strong case for the induction. That is what fans of Keith Whitley have put together over the last three years. A group named “Induct Keith Whitley into The Country Music Hall of Fame” has started a campaign to try and get the Kentucky-born singer and songwriter who died tragically in 1989 into country music’s most elite class. It has set up an online petition and is asking Keith Whitley fans to add their voices and signatures in support of the effort.
Another good sign for Whitley in 2019 is that the Hall of Fame has announced they will open a special exhibit dedicated to Whitley on May 3rd as part of the Hall’s annual revolving exhibit schedule.
Travis Tritt – Now that two of his brethren from the “Class of ’89” are in (Garth Brooks and Alan Jackson), Travis Tritt will start to be much more heavily considered in the next few years. There’s probably still a few names ahead of him, and since his commercial career cooled off somewhat quickly—and he hasn’t kept completely free of controversy by speaking his mind on the ills of the industry—his induction ceremony may still be far off, but it’s inching closer. And why not consider Tritt, with two Grammys, four CMAs, five #1 singles, and 19 Top 10’s. Travis Tritt helped put the drive into country, both sonically and commercially. But Tritt still feels like one of those names that others must go in first before he could be considered, especially Hank Williams Jr.
Marty Stuart With all Marty has done and continues to do for the music, it’s time to start considering him to join his wife Connie Smith in The Hall. Many of the artifacts in the museum portion of the Hall of Fame are owned by Marty Stuart, as well as more that are going into his soon-to-be-opened Congress of Country Music in Mississippi. He’s a walking encyclopedia of the genre. That’s the reason Ken Burns chose him to be the primary commentator on the upcoming country music documentary on PBS. There are few if any helping to keep the roots of country music alive more at the moment than Marty Stuart. But the lack of commercial success in his career may keep Marty on the outside looking in for a Hall of Fame induction for the next few years.
Kenny Chesney As weird as it may seem Kenny Chesney was officially eligible for the Hall of Fame in 2015. He released his first major label album with BNA 25 years ago and had two Top 10 singles, “Fall In Love” and “All I Need to Know.” It’s hard to see him as a serious contender until a few other names tick off the list, but stranger things have happened. Consider this: Chesney has been country music’s only active and consistent stadium draw for the last decade. Taylor Swift and George Strait have moved on, and Jason Aldean and Luke Bryan only recently reached the stadium level. Chesney’s sold 30 million albums and had 30 Top 10 singles. Get ready for a reality where Kenny is a serious contender for Hall of Fame every year, and in a close field, don’t be surprised if he’s 2019’s pick.
Other Potential Modern Era Inductees:
- Clint Black If it wasn’t for his career’s disappearing act, his name would be right up there with the other front runners. Instead, he seems like probably the last of the “Class of ’89” that can expect to get inducted.
- Toby Keith Officially eligible because his first success was in 1993, Kieth is probably on the outside-looking-in for the next few years since he didn’t start to peak until the 2000’s, and he remains a fairly controversial character.
- Tim McGraw – McGraw never had that consecutive string of years when he was the biggest thing in country music like many Hall of Fame inductees, but he has shown a longevity in his career and is well-liked into the industry to the point where in a few years, you can expect him to be bumped up to a front-runner.
- The Judds – Too bad their career only lasted six years, but it was a productive six years. 14 total #1 hits, eight CMA Awards, five Grammy Awards, and millions of records sold, they should, and probably will be in the Hall of Fame some day.
- Rosanne Cash- Folks sometimes forget just how big Rosanne Cash got in the 80’s with ten #1 hits, and a huge influence on the genre at the time. She’s not just Johnny Cash’s daughter, or an Americana icon. But don’t expect her to go in until the Hall of Fame can figure out how to induct another famous 2nd generations star, Hank Williams Jr.
- Crystal Gayle – Her recent induction into the Grand Ole Opry proves that Hall of Famer Loretta Lynn’s sister and “Don’t It Make My Brown Eyes Blue” singer has fans and allies in the industry, and expect her name to be bandied about for the Hall of Fame in the coming years.
- Lorrie Morgan – With 6 millions records sold worldwide and 40 charting singles, she’s a contender for the future for sure. But she will like have to wait until her former husband Keith Whitley gets in before she has a shot.
- Gene Watson – With five #1’s and 76 total charted singles, Gene Watson was an understated superstar, and the fact that he continues to remain active in trying to keep both is own legacy and the legacy of country music alive makes him a name worth considering.
Potential Veterans Era Inductees
A rule in the Hall of Fame bylaws states that artists cannot be inducted the year after they pass away. Call it the sympathy clause that is put in place to make sure someone isn’t inducted just because voter’s hearts are heavy from a recent passing. However what this rule has done is front-loaded inductees who may be suffering from health concerns in recent years. Jim Ed Brown was inducted right before he passed away. So was “Cowboy” Jack Clement a few years back. Mac Wiseman was also inducted in the midst of health concerns, and recently passed away. Because of this, artists who may be getting long in years or poor in heath have to be considered at the front of the pack. Two such artists who may receive extra consideration in 2019 are The Maddox Brothers & Rose since the final member Don Maddox is now well into his 90’s, and Jerry Lee Lewis.
Predicting the Veterans Era nominees is notoriously foolhardy because they pull from such a wide field of potential inductees, and there’s such an incredible backlog. But here are some ideas.
• Last Year’s Inductee: Dottie West
• Saving Country Music Prediction: Hank Williams Jr. or Jerry Lee Lewis
• Saving Country Music’s Final Ballot: The Maddox Brothers & Rose, Jerry Lee Lewis, Hank Williams Jr., Gram Parsons
– – – – – – – – – –
Hank Williams Jr.: At this point, Hank Williams Jr. not residing in the Hall of Fame calls into question the entire legitimacy of the institution. Two CMA Entertainer of the Year awards, three ACM Entertainer of the Year awards, 70 millions of albums sold, 13 #1 albums, and 10 #1 singles, Hank Williams Jr. has the resume and then some for the Hall of Fame. Hank Jr. has said himself in interviews that he doesn’t care if he’s inducted into the Hall of Fame or not, but there is still lots of strong lobbying behind him. A movement started a few years called Bocephus Belongs is hoping to help push Hank Jr. over the top and get him into the rotunda. Right now, Hank Jr. feels like the guy most on the Hall of Fame bubble to go in, while anyone who goes in before him feels like they’re taking his spot. The voters just need to get this done.
Jerry Lee Lewis: Jerry Lee may be held back some since he came from rock & roll, and because of his antics on The Grand Ole Opry and other places over the years. But his contributions as one of country music’s preeminent piano players cannot be overstated. If Elvis is in the Country Hall (and he is), then his old Sun Studios buddy can’t be counted out. Jerry Lee Lewis is the last man standing from the Million Dollar Quartet, and is now 83-years-old. Jerry Lee’s name has been rumored to have been in contention and on final ballots for many years. Maybe 2019 will be his time, especially after a recent minor stroke underscores that he’s not getting any younger, and these Hall of Fame inductions are best done when the performers are still around to enjoy them. Just like Hank Williams Jr., Jerry Lee Lewis is part of the backlog of performers who must go in ASAP. An online petition has been started trying to push Jerry Lee over the top.
The Maddox Brothers & Rose: The Maddox Brothers & Rose was a name that probably wasn’t on many people’s radar until the last couple of years. It is hard not to see how important their influence was on country, especially West Coast country, and the flashy dress of country performers that still influences the genre today. If groups like The Jordanaires and The Sons of the Pioneers are in The Hall, certainly The Maddox Brothers & Rose should be. And it would be great to see happen while the final member, the 95-year-old Don Maddox, is still around. Now that Mac Wiseman, Harold Bradley, and so many other oldtimers are gone, Don Maddox is the last living link to country music’s past—someone who saw people such as Elvis and George Jones open for him early in his career. There has been some additional chatter about The Maddox Brothers and Rose the last few years due to Don’s age. Marty Stuart has been a friend of Don’s in recent years, and rumor has Marty working behind-the-scenes to at least get the family band considered. Rose Maddox as a sole inductee is also a possibility. She made great strides for women in country music early on.
Ralph Stanley or The Stanley Brothers – After passing away in 2016, Ralph Stanley all-of-a-sudden emerges as a glaring omission in the ranks of Hall of Fame members. A seminal figure in the emergence of bluegrass in both the original era, and during its second wind after the success of O Brother Where Art Thou, he’s the type of influencer and ambassador the Hall of Fame rotunda was built for. Universally beloved inside Nashville and beyond, a former Grand Ole Opry member, and a powerful name to represent the bluegrass side of country, Ralph Stanley would be a strong pick few would quibble with.
Gram Parsons: Gram’s inclusion in Hall of Fame consideration is always a topic of great discussion. In 2013 there was a greater push than ever to induct him, with influential country music writer Chet Flippo personally making the case for him. But it wasn’t meant to be, and it may be many years before it is, especially with the current backlog in the Veterans Era. But his name is always in the field for this accolade, and looking at the influence Gram had showing millions of rock and roll fans the beauty of country music, it always should be.
Tompall Glaser & The Glaser Brothers: Probably another long shot, but one that has to be considered a more legitimate contender with the passing of Tompall a few of years ago that helped raise awareness in the influence of him and his brothers. It probably helps that his brothers-in-Outlaw-country-arms Bobby Bare and “Cowboy” Jack Clement were inducted in recent years, moving folks like Tompall and other Outlaw country personalities one step closer in the process. Also the major exhibit at the Hall of Fame at the moment covers the Outlaw era, of which Tompall was arguably one of the most important figures in. Now would be a good time to consider him for the Hall of Fame.
Johnny Paycheck and David Allan Coe: These names come up every year from hard country fans, and are names regularly held up as evidence of the Hall of Fame’s illegitimacy. The simple truth is that with these two performer’s shady pasts—especially in the current political climate—Hall of Fame induction is going to be difficult. Johnny Paycheck has a more distinct possibility than David Allan Coe, because Coe could create a public relations nightmare for the Hall of Fame from people (correct or not) who label Coe a racist & sexist. Patience mixed with persistence is what Coe and Paycheck fans need to see their heroes inducted. One positive sign for these two in the coming years is that the Hall of Fame’s current featured exhibit is on the Outlaw era. What better time than to feature these important figures in country music history than with an induction.
- Tanya Tucker – Recently moved from a Modern Era candidate to a Veterans Era candidate because her first big commercial success was in 1972, with ten #1’s hits and a diverse, long-lasting career, she should get good consideration. It also might help that Tanya has a comeback record on the way produced by Brandi Carlile. If the record is a success, it could put Tanya’s name squarely in the hat for 2020.
- Vern Gosdin (sign the petition) “The Voice” has to be considered a strong candidate, but the log jam in front of him may have to break before he’s given serious consideration.
- Lynn Anderson: Lynn Anderson and Dottie West were the two ladies that lead the field for female veteran inductees for many years. Now that Dottie is in, it moves Lynn one step closer. It’s only the strong backlog in front of Lynn that makes it seem difficult for her to get the nod in 2019. But with the continued movement to be inclusive to women, Lynn and other women will benefit from elevated consideration.
- Mickey Gilley – With his first big hit in 1974, Mickey Gilley has (hypothetically) been moved to the Veterans Era category this year. Once you slip into the Veteran’s Era, it’s seen as a harder task to get in among a much more crowded field. But with 42 Top 40 singles and the role he played during the Urban Cowboy era, Mickey should be considered a contender.
- John Hartford – The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum works like a timeline as you walk through the displays that weave around the massive archive in the center of the building. As you start from the beginning, each artist and their impact is displayed on a plaque that includes their Hall of Fame induction date. When you come to the John Hartford display, he is the first in the timeline to have a display, but no Hall of Fame induction date. He may not be a flashy name, but he’s a name who should be considered.
- Jimmy Martin – You probably have to put Ralph Stanley and the Stanley Brothers in before Jimmy Martin gets considered. His personal antics might also hold him back. But Jimmy Martin should be in.
- Johnny Horton
- June Carter Cash
- John Denver
- Jack Greene
- Slim Whitman
- Wynn Stewart
- Jimmy C. Newman
- Jeannie Seely
Non-Performer Inductee
The non-performer inductee is likely to be an industry personality like a label head, a producer, or some other individual who made a significant impact on country music behind-the-scenes. But if Saving Country Music had a vote, it would be for country music writer Chet Flippo.
Along with writing the liner notes to many of country music’s most iconic albums, including Wanted: The Outlaws and Red Headed Stranger, Chet’s work with Rolling Stone in the 70’s exposed country music to entirely new crowd and generation. Chet Flippo helped make country music cool, and continued in a journalistic capacity to become an elder statesman and one of the most respected opinion makers in the business.
Flippo was an editor and writer for Rolling Stone until 1980 when he left to write a biography of Hank Williams, but continued to contribute to the magazine over the years. From 1991 to 1994 Flippo was a lecturer in journalism at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, before moving to Nashville. From 1995 until 2000, he was the Nashville Bureau Chief for Billboard, leaving in 2000 to become the Country Music Editor for Sonicnet.com.
Flippo was known more recently for his work on CMT.com in his always-enlightening Nashville Skyline columns. For 12 years he oversaw editorial content for CMT. A writer who had seen it all with the courage to say what he believed, Flippo had the ability to stimulate discussion like none other in his field. Though he never seemed exactly at home on CMT with his more traditional country mindset, Flippo’s air brought a sense of legitimacy to the whole CMT operation. If there ever was a music writer who deserved Hall of Fame induction, it is Chet Flippo. He passed away in 2013.
Jenifer Badger
March 4, 2019 @ 10:41 am
It is well-past time for Marty Stuart to be inducted!
Randolph Greer
October 8, 2019 @ 3:51 am
I like Marty as well. But I would also like to mention my cousin…….DOC WATSON. I hope others might agree.
Ken
March 4, 2019 @ 10:45 am
Add George Hamilton 1V to the Veterans category. That man made more overseas tours to promote country music than anyone else. He was known for a very good reason as the International Ambassador of Country Music. For many many years he was the only link people in Europe and especially the UK, had with Nashville and the Opry. He had more than thirty songs in the country charts in his career and was a member of the Opry from 1960 until he died in 2014.
He should be honoured in the Hall of Fame.
Taff Martin
March 4, 2019 @ 2:18 pm
Apparently one of the nicest guys in country music. my father met him quite a few times, and he always had time for everyone.
Janice Brooks
March 4, 2019 @ 10:46 am
My discusson with a friend brought up mentions of Sid Nathan and Jerry Kennedy for the non performers catagory.
david davis
March 7, 2019 @ 4:37 am
Can a comedienne like Jerry Clower or Archie Campbell be considered in non performer category? I know it sounds silly but they did not play an instrument or sing. I have seen most of the people mentioned and all are deserving, but I would like to add the Bellamy Brothers,Diamond Rio, Neal McCoy,Ronnie McDowell, John Anderson, and Patti Lovelace, To keep Hank Jr.,Tanya Tucker, David Allen Coe, and The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band out of the Hall Of Fame is a crime.. I think Cal Smith should also be considered. Put these entertainers in before they pass away so we can here their stories and thoughts while they live.
Cobra
March 4, 2019 @ 10:55 am
Dwight Yoakam.
Enough said.
OlaR
March 4, 2019 @ 11:14 am
(Un-)Popular opinion: i prefer members/inductees who are alive & kicking.
Modern Era: Dwight Yoakam (will be Brooks & Dunn or The Judds)
Veterans Era: Tanya Tucker (will be…someone who is dead)
Non-Performer: what about a (former) producer like Kyle Lehning (Randy Travis, Dan Seals, Baillie & The Boys…) or Tony Brown (Vince Gill, Reba McEntire, Trisha Yearwood…)
Julian Spivey
March 4, 2019 @ 8:32 pm
So if someone kicks the bucket they’re less deserving?
OlaR
March 5, 2019 @ 3:56 am
That’s why i used the “(Un-)Popular opinion” tag. I know my take on the subject is not what the majority (?) thinks or wants.
It’s not about “deserving” but i like to see the artists (or “non-performer”) not the grandson or a niece taking home an award or a badge.
Colter
March 4, 2019 @ 11:31 am
I will self destruct if Kenny Chesney becomes a hall of famer before Hank Jr.
KimBerly
March 4, 2019 @ 11:45 am
LOL, yea, agreed.
TXMUSICJIM
March 4, 2019 @ 11:33 am
Inductees will be: Dwight modern era Tanya Tucker veterans Era and Chet Flippo non-performer.
Personally I long to see Gram Parsons inducted but may not be in the cards I would love to see Gary Stewart and Jerry Jeff Walker inducted as well but those are more unlikely than Parsons getting in.
FeedThemHogs
March 6, 2019 @ 5:27 pm
Gary Stewart would be the longest of long shots. Haha I love his stuff… but no way he gets in.
I Stan for Moe Bandy
March 4, 2019 @ 11:40 am
Been a tough year for the Hall of Fame, losing Roy Clark, Mac Wiseman, Harold Bradley, Maxine Brown, and Fred Foster.. It’ll be good to get a few new names added to the Hall.
If Ralph Stanley, Jerry Lee Lewis, Hank, Jr., or Tanya Tucker gets inducted this year, it’ll be a good class, in my opinion.
KimBerly
March 4, 2019 @ 11:43 am
Hmmm… Marty Stuart is a great candidate. However, Steve Wariner, who is the freaking bomb, is overlooked yet again.
CeeCerBee
March 4, 2019 @ 1:34 pm
YES! Not only for his string of #1s, but for his songwriting and his instrumental work (which have been awarded with Grammys.
Dobe Daddy
March 4, 2019 @ 11:52 am
It sure would be nice if they could put the Maddox Brothers and Rose into the Hall of Fame while Don Maddox is still with us. He’s given his life to the music and the group influenced a whole host of country greats including Cash, Haggard and the Statler Brothers. If they use this to slot for Hank Jr he sure as hell deserves it, but it would be a disservice to one of the last links to one of the groups that put the Western in Country and Western.
Beau Bradlee
March 4, 2019 @ 11:53 am
Skeeter Davis. Linda Ronstadt
Erik North
March 4, 2019 @ 1:28 pm
You kind of have to wonder why Skeeter isn’t already in there because of the significant hits she had in the early 1960s (“The End Of The World”; “Am I That Easy To Forget?”, etc.), although from what I have heard, she was a non-conformist of sorts. So too was Linda, for that matter; and in her case, about three generations of female country artists, plus Dolly and Emmylou, would advocate for Linda’s inclusion.
Tom
March 4, 2019 @ 3:48 pm
Skeeter Davis had a few memorable songs, but no #1 hits and a relatively short period of commercial relevance. She’s mostly remembered because she was much loved by those in the industry, but her career probably just wasn’t impactful enough for HOF consideration.
When Linda Ronstadt chose to sing a country song there was nobody better. But she wasn’t fully committed to country music. When she was touring in the 1970s and ’80s it was the rock stations promoting her concerts, not the country stations. I just think she’s viewed by the industry as more of a rock singer who had some crossover hits than a true country singer deserving of enshrinement.
Beau Bradlee
March 4, 2019 @ 11:17 pm
In terms of impact on other female country artists, Linda Ronstadt was as influential as Patsy Cline or Loretta Lynn.
Beau Bradlee
March 4, 2019 @ 11:20 pm
Although you have a point about rock stations. Country stations ignored Linda for years and fell all over her after she became the #1 rock woman. I didn’t even consider that When Will I Be Loved would be a #1 country song.
Tom
March 5, 2019 @ 12:26 pm
Oh, I have no doubt that Ronstadt’s influence on the female artists that came up in the 1980s and ’90s – and, subsequently, their impact on more recent artists – has had a significant impact on country music. She definitely deserves serious consideration and may eventually get in. But, like the Dirt Band, I think the backlog of more commercially successful country acts is going to have to be cleared up before that happens.
Tom R.
March 12, 2019 @ 1:09 pm
Completely disagree about Skeeter Davis having a “short period of career relevance” – Billboard chart records 1953-1976, five Grammy nominations 1959-1972, 35+ albums on RCA (RCA actually paid for a full page tribute ad in Billboard when she passed away in 2003, pretty rare for a record label to do for an act decades off the label) , 40+ chart singles, major player in making country music popular outside the genre or conventional markets (she’ was a huge in many international markets for decades, so much so she was touring internationally into the 1990’s, the very sort of thing the CMA is always trying to do, break new ground). No she didn’t have a solo number one in Billboard (though she did have as part of The Davis Sisters, a record which STILL is in the top 100 most successful singles in the history of the BB country chart) but keep in mind her peak was in the 50s-60s when number one records were often there for months and quite often there were less than a dozen #1 songs per year.) “End of the World” managed to climb to #2 and remains one of the very few 1960’s country hits that is widely known to younger (and non-country) audiences. She more than deserves to be in the HOF.
Tom
March 12, 2019 @ 2:42 pm
I said she had a short period of COMMERCIAL relevance, not CAREER relevance. Congratulations on responding to my comment with no sense of perspective.
Maybe she deserves to be in the Hall of Fame. The problem is that there are probably 20 people from her era that deserve it more. And by the time those people get in there may very well be another 20 more deserving artists who will have moved into the veteran category.
I just don’t see her in unless they open the flood gates at some point.
j m smith
November 23, 2019 @ 5:20 pm
thank you for your comments about miss skeeter davis. she influenced not only tammy wynette and dolly, but has influenced michael stipe of r.e.m. and debbie harry covered skeeters version of my last date with you and as you said a new generation knows her music from video games and the simpson show from her duet with nrbq. she is very relevant as it has been written she was one of country,s first female superstars and also give her and chet credit for her harmony contributions.
Randolph Greer
October 8, 2019 @ 3:34 am
Add Johnny Horton and you have a great class!!!!
Chris
March 4, 2019 @ 12:24 pm
There are many worthy candidates. Dwight Yoakam would be my modern era pick, but I’d be very happy to see Marty Stuart or Travis Tritt get in as they’re terrific artists.
Veterans – how can the Stanley Brothers not be in? They should have been inducted years ago. I’d rather Paycheck before Hank Jr to be honest, but both do clearly belong. Gram Parsons is a guy I love a lot – he did help show a lot of rock fans what they were missing and I think his solo albums are genuinely really good, a million times more country than most stuff that gets labelled “country-rock” – but I feel he may have to wait.
He may not be the biggest name, but there’s a case for John Prine, surely? He’s a superlative songwriter and witty performer and his songs have been recorded by everyone from David Allan Coe to George Strait to Miranda Lambert. I’d love to see him get in.
Would be nice to see someone like Don Maddox get recognised, of course.
thebugman10
March 4, 2019 @ 12:35 pm
Johnny Horton isn’t in the Hall of Fame?!?!?
dukeroberts
March 5, 2019 @ 11:07 pm
No! And that has bugged me for at least 20 years!
Tom R.
March 12, 2019 @ 1:00 pm
Johnny Horton’s not being in the HOF is a textbook example of Nashville (even decades ago) basically does not give a shit about any stars who are dead unless they can be mined for further record sales (ie Patsy) or songs (ie Hank).
altaltcountry
March 4, 2019 @ 12:35 pm
There shouldn’t be a cap on the number of Veterans’ Era inductees. We’re still sorting out who’s the best from the modern era, so there’s kind of a competition, but all the veterans listed here (except maybe John Denver) has proved themselves. And there are a bunch more veterans not inducted who should be. Maybe the hall doesn’t want to show up these young folks.
Trigger
March 4, 2019 @ 12:56 pm
If I had three picks, I would put in Hank Williams Jr., Jerry Lee Lewis, and the Maddox Brothers & Rose this year. The Modern Era is fine. Those people will get their chance. The Veterans Era is the problem. Do you believe that Jerry Lee Lewis and the Maddox Brothers & Rose will be in at some point? Then put them in while they’re still living, period.
CeeCerBee
March 4, 2019 @ 1:57 pm
I get they only let a few in each year to keep the HoF exclusive, but I really wish they would waive that for the Veteran category. There are so many worthy candidates. Many of them won’t live to see their induction and that’s a shame.
Tom
March 4, 2019 @ 3:29 pm
I wouldn’t be in favor of completely opening it up, but I think some short-term changes could be made to try to get more of the current candidates who obviously deserve enshrinement in there. Perhaps they could also let in anyone who finishes within a certain percentage of the top vote getter.
dukeroberts
March 5, 2019 @ 11:12 pm
I hate that there’s a line of demarcation between modern and veterans. A hall of fame is about a body of work over the stretch of time. There are so many vets who should already be in before someone who just hit 20 years gets in, unless that newer artist’s popularity and/or influence is unmistakable.
Aaron
March 4, 2019 @ 12:40 pm
From the obvious names, I’m hoping for Brooks & Dunn in modern and Hank Jr. or Maddox Brothers & Rose in veteran. But for less obvious names, I hope for Nitty Gritty Dirt Band and Mary Chapin Carpenter to be discussed in future years.
Rob M
March 4, 2019 @ 1:10 pm
I’d like to hear anyone’s thoughts on my pick: The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band. They have the longevity, the successful radio and touring careers, but most importantly they introduced a generation to traditional country and roots music with their Circle albums
Tom
March 4, 2019 @ 3:14 pm
I think they deserve serious consideration. Like John Denver they’re probably hurt by the fact that for much of their career they were considered a folk/rock act rather than a country act, and that most of their commercial country success was concentrated into a few years in the 1980s. I don’t think they have a chance until the deck is cleared of some of the bigger hitmakers, but if the HOF is to be taken seriously as an entity created for the preservation of the history of country music the Circle albums should add enough weight to their success to get them in at some point.
Rob m
March 4, 2019 @ 6:45 pm
Thanks for the reply. I think you are 100% correct. In fact, in one of their radio singles they sang
Is it folk or rock or country
Seems like everybody cares but us
So just leave us an early wake up call
So we don’t miss the bus
david davis
March 7, 2019 @ 5:04 am
I have seen the Dirt Band in person and they put on an excellent show and they even signed autographs after the show. Their work on the Circle Be Unbroken albums alone should put them in the Hall of Fame.
altaltcountry
March 5, 2019 @ 9:51 am
Nitty Gritty Dirt Band is an important crossover group. I also like the Flying Burrito Brothers for similar reasons. And Gene Clark deserves recognition as much as Gram Parsons. But most of the crossover inductees tend toward acts that were popular but not particularly influential or innovative (Brenda Lee, the Everly Brothers, Glen Campbell, Charlie Daniels).
Rob
March 4, 2019 @ 1:15 pm
I know a lot of you guys may dislike him because of his politics, but Hank Jr. deserves to be inducted. “Habits Old and New,” “Whiskey Bent and Hell Bound,” and “The New South” are some of the best country albums of all time. And his influence has been greater than most if not all of this list. As for modern era, I don’t see it happening just yet but I’m rooting for Travis Tritt.
Spara
March 4, 2019 @ 1:17 pm
Hoping for Olivia Newton John!
Tom
March 4, 2019 @ 3:23 pm
I’m not really sure how I should react to this. I’d like to assume it’s a facetious comment, and if it is it’s pretty funny. I mean, to be fair, she did have a handful of singles in the mid-’70s that were as country as anything out there. But they amount to a very small percentage of her total body of work and certainly weren’t impactful enough to warrant consideration.
But at the same time, there are people who think Bebe Rexha or whatever the hell she calls herself is a legit country artist so I really don’t know what to think anymore.
Country When Country Wasn't Cool
March 5, 2019 @ 1:03 am
I actually took the ONJ comment seriously. You don’t necessarily think of Elvis or Brenda Lee as country artists first and foremost, so ONJ isn’t that farfetched of a choice. She was even the CMA’s female vocalist of the year.
With that said…there’s a long line of possibilties ahead of her. We’ll be griping about Taylor Swift being considered but not ONJ years from now. I also disagree wirh another comment discounting Anne Murray. She has proven herself and deserves a shot someday; I grew up listening to her only on country radio. Also, Steve Wariner, probably the most underrated country artist ever. One name I haven’t seen yet is Kathy Mattea; I suspect she falls in the Clint-Black-career-fade category. I’m guessing Hank Jr. and Tanya Tucker will be the frontrunners this year, though I would love to see Keith Whitley and Marty Stuart inducted as well.
OlaR
March 5, 2019 @ 4:58 am
I’m for Sylvia. “Nobody” was a #1 country-hit in 1982 & a worldwide pop hit. She won the ACM Top Female Vocalist award. “Nobody” was her biggest hit (with 10 other songs reaching the Top 10 of the country charts).
Sylvia is still active & released an album last year called Second Bloom: The Hits Re-Imagined.
Or Charly McClain. She was a successful artist both solo & as a duet partner with Mickey Gilley (she also released songs with her hubby Wayne Massey). “Who’s Cheating Who” & “Radio Heart” became #1 solo hits & “Paradise Tonight” with Mickey Gilley went to #1 in 1983. After 14 #1 & Top 10 hits her career was over in the late ’80s.
Or K.T. Oslin. Her career was unusual. She charted a song or two in the early ’80s using the name Kay T. Oslin. She wrote a couple of songs for other artists & became K.T. Oslin in the mid ’80s. “80’s Ladies” was the start of a not so long but very successful career. Platinum & gold albums, Grammys, CMA & ACM awards, #1 songs & a #1 album.
Kent
March 4, 2019 @ 1:33 pm
Here’s a walking billboard for my vote. 🙂 🙂
https://www.instagram.com/p/BrXsDAPDzic/
Jeff Wall
March 4, 2019 @ 1:42 pm
I want to see Chet Flippo in the Hall of Fame.
Jack Eden
March 4, 2019 @ 1:43 pm
My suggestions in no particular order:
Modern Era: Marty Stuart, Dwight Yoakam, Brooks & Dunn, Crystal Gayle, The Judds, Shania Twain, Alison Krauss
Veteran Era: Jessi Colter, Wanda Jackson, Ralph Stanley/Stanley Brothers, Del McCoury, Jan Howard, June Carter, John Denver
Non-Perfomer: Chet Flippo (writer), Bill Cody (radio), Eddie Stubbs (Opry announcer), Bob Harris (radio), Ray Baker (producer)
CeeCerBee
March 4, 2019 @ 1:44 pm
Pretty sure it will be Brooks & Dunn. There are other, just as worthy candidates, but none that are such industry darlings.
Gonna got out on a limb and say Toby Keith has NO chance – now, 10 years from now, 20 years from now. The CMAs have always shunned him and he has always shunned the CMAs right now.
Bob
March 4, 2019 @ 1:45 pm
How in the h… can gene watson not be in the hall…come on academy get ur crap straight
jody
March 4, 2019 @ 1:46 pm
The way things are lining up, I think Marty has a real shot this year.
Julian
March 4, 2019 @ 8:38 pm
I’d like to see it, but unfortunately I don’t think he’ll ever be inducted.
dukeroberts
March 5, 2019 @ 11:18 pm
If Bill Anderson and Ralph Emery can be in, I think Marty Stuart can. Eventually.
wayne
March 4, 2019 @ 2:08 pm
I seriously cannot imagine how the Hall of Fame can be legitimate without Hank Jr in it considering his body of work.
My heart is with Marty & Travis, and many others on the list, most notable Dwight Yoakam. But Hank Jr not in yet, really?
Kevin Lynch
March 4, 2019 @ 2:08 pm
I just wish the system would allow for worthy veterans to reap this reward while they can still enjoy it, rather than a year or two after they pass. Just never made any sense to me to do otherwise.
Taff Martin
March 4, 2019 @ 2:13 pm
Rosanne Cash, should have been in long ago.
Dwight definitely, not sure about Travis Tritt to be honest.
Gram Parsons had a huge influence on country music, even if he was not that successful himself whilst alive.
And for gods sake, get Johnny Horton in now!!!!!
CeeCerBee
March 4, 2019 @ 3:00 pm
Agree on Rosanne. You have to think though, since Skeeter Davis, Lynn Anderson, Tanya Tucker, Crystal Gayle, and June Carter Cash ALL still waiting their turn, Rosanne had a long road ahead of her.
Randolph Greer
October 8, 2019 @ 3:12 am
I agree that Tanya Tucker, Skeeter Davis, and Crystal Gayle should go in before Rosanne. But that’s not all. Anne Murray, the Judds, Linda Ronstadt, and Wanda Jackson are all more deserving of the honor. And two others must be mentioned…… Alison Krauss and Patty Loveless. And finally, for God’s sake, Johnny Horton!!!
Atomic Zombie Redneck
March 4, 2019 @ 2:31 pm
Marty Stuart should definitely be one of this year’s picks.
hoptowntiger94
March 4, 2019 @ 2:52 pm
By the time Brooks & Dunn released their first album, Garth Brooks was on his 3rd album.
Convict charlie
March 4, 2019 @ 9:27 pm
They each had some previous solo work though
Luckyoldsun
March 5, 2019 @ 12:12 am
Close, but not quite. “Brand New Man,” B&D’s debut single was released on June 10, 1991 and the album was issued on August 13.
“Rodeo,” the lead single from Garth’s third album, was released on August 12, 1991 and the album, “Ropin’ the Wind,” came out on September 10.
hoptowntiger94
March 5, 2019 @ 6:10 am
I’ll take being that close for going off the top of my head… my point is don’t lump B&D into the class of 89.
Tom
March 5, 2019 @ 8:49 am
I don’t think that was the intention, I think he meant that B&D was somewhat overlooked because they came out just as the Class of ’89 was hitting it’s full stride.
Biggest Al Downing
March 4, 2019 @ 3:13 pm
Just wondering why Anne Murray isn’t even in the conversation thread. Her musical catalogue may be to pop oriented for some folks, I guess. At the end of the day, I think her profile is stronger than almost any other female country artist.
Tom
March 4, 2019 @ 3:35 pm
Despite being considered mainly a country artist in Canada, in the US I believe she’s primarily viewed as an AC artist who had some crossover hits during the pop-friendly Urban Cowboy period.
CeeCerBee
March 4, 2019 @ 4:09 pm
I think it also doesn’t help that she her contemporaries have much stronger cases than she does. I mean, e en Janie Fricke (who I am not sure belongs in the HoF) has a stronger case than she does.
Biggest Al Downing
March 4, 2019 @ 7:35 pm
Interesting perspective…. Anne Murray was “discovered” via the Glen Campbell Good Time Hour, had 10 #1 songs, 25 Top 10 songs and 53 total on the Billboard Country charts. Rosanne Cash had 11#1 songs, but only 15 top 10’s and 23 chart singles on Billboard. Janie Fricke Billboard charts are not reported accurately IMO.. My best and most objective assessment for her would be 9 #1 songs (counting On My Knee’s with Charlie Rich) and a total of 38 chart singles. Cash profiles on the AC side as well.
CeeCerBee
March 4, 2019 @ 8:03 pm
I actually thought Fricke had won more industry awards than Murray, but after double checking I see she has multiple Grammy wins for best female country performance as well as CMA awards for Album and Song of the year. (Strange, one would think she would have won a female vocalist award as well, but no).
I revise my opinion. Single and Song awards (up against men…and rare for women)…plus the Grammys…
Her case is very strong.
Tom
March 5, 2019 @ 8:33 am
I think it’s sort of a Barry Bonds situation. Bonds is baseball’s all-time home run leader and in the top 10 all time in many other categories and owns a vanload of MVP awards, but so far he’s been shut out of baseball’s hall of fame so far due to the perception that his achievements were made possible by his use of steroids.
Anne Murray’s achievements are similarly diminished due to the fact that most of them came during an era when industry conditions were very favorable to a pop artist. I think in retrospect many people are looking back and thinking that while “Blessed Are the Believers” (just to pick one at random) is a great song, it’s not necessarily a great country song.
And I’m not saying that I don’t personally think she’s worthy of enshrinement, just offering my viewpoint as to why her name isn’t often mentioned in these discussions.
Biggest Al Downing
March 5, 2019 @ 1:18 pm
I might be unwittingly sounding like an Anne Murray cheerleader.. the intention was just to invoke the name into the HOF conversation which hadn’t been part of this narrative and rarely seems to be in other past or comparable conversations/threads.
Respectfully, I think that the Bonds comparison is a little off base.
If recording pop flavoured songs is justification for dismissal you could argue that Kenny Rogers and/or Ronnie Milsap should not be in either.
The real issue is that the HOF committee has a dearth of reputable artists with country music chart success and industry awards who are on the outside looking in.
Tom
March 5, 2019 @ 3:52 pm
First let me calm my OCD a little. “Dearth” means very few. We don’t have a dearth of artists who are on the outside looking in, we have an abundance.
Artists who record pop-flavored country have been inducted into the Hall of Fame almost since the beginning. The difference between most of these artists and Anne Murray is that the others “came to town” to be pop-flavored country artists, whereas she was well-established as an adult contemporary star when the atmosphere in country music changed enough to clear the way for her to have success in that genre with the same sort of light pop music she’d had played in doctors offices and elevators for 10 years.
Again, I don’t know that this should or will keep her from getting in eventually, but I do think it will keep her out until the plethora of successful artists from her era who were fully invested in country music make it in.
david davis
March 7, 2019 @ 5:16 am
I agree, She had some monster hits and some were songs of the year.
Tom R.
March 12, 2019 @ 12:57 pm
It’s no secret (nor has it ever been) that Anne Murray does not consider herself a country singer despite her being far more successful in that genre than in pop/rock. In her interviews, there is often a suggestion that she thinks she is a bit above the “country” market and she has tactlessly acknowledged her dislike of most hard country music. It didn’t hurt her when she was hot on country radio since a lot of programmers back then (and now) were notoriously not country fans especially “hard country” but I think her attitude may well have hurt any chance of her getting in the Hall of Fame and honestly she doesn’t deserve it, she was just marketed in the genre, not really pursuing a career in it.
CeeCerBee
March 4, 2019 @ 3:47 pm
I also wonder…why does the process have to be so secretive? The Rock-N-Roll HoF process is severely flawed, but at least it is public (fans even have a say these days).
And honestly, I get they want it to be “exclusive” but when you get to the point so MANY deserving artists aren’t in, doesn’t the Hall lose some credibility (Hello, Hank Jr.).
The other thing…pretty sure we have seen our last “modern” female inductee. I went through the list of inductees. Reba was the last “modern” inductee (and that was before the rule change limiting it to one modern, one veteran, and one contributed per year). Barbara Mandrell went in a year or two before Reba and Emmylou a year or three before that, and they were LONG overdue. How do women like Rosanne Cash and Mary Chapin Caprenter have a chance when giants like Barbara and Emmylou are kept in line for so many years?
Trigger
March 4, 2019 @ 4:16 pm
The Country Music Hall of Fame does a terrible job each year capturing the zeitgeist or really any serious public attention for the nominations, or the inductions which are even more private. I really do appreciate the reverence with which they approach this, but they also are missing a huge opportunity to promote legendary country artists, promote themselves, and promote the genre by making both the nomination process, the nominee announcements, and the actual induction into and exclusive party for a very small select group of people.
Gassman
March 5, 2019 @ 2:21 pm
Say what you want about the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, but one thing they don’t have a problem with is self-promotion or getting folks to talk about the process, the institution, or the music they are honoring.
Benny Lee
March 4, 2019 @ 3:52 pm
Modern: Dwight or B&D.
Veterans: Hank Jr or Johnny Horton. Echoing others, how is Johnny Horton not already in????
Honestly, I would put Marty in, but in the 3rd category as keeper of the flame.
They should really take a few years off from the modern inductees and catch up with all the old and deceased names who so obviously deserve it.
Head Case
March 4, 2019 @ 4:17 pm
Based on the concert i saw last summer I hope Hank Jr never gets anything from anybody. Talk about being disappointed. I haven’t been able to listen to him since.
CeeCeeBee
March 4, 2019 @ 4:31 pm
I have seen so many artist give crappy shows and those same artists give amazing shows on different nights in different venues. Everyone has an off night now and again.
And honestly, even if every show he does now days is bad, that does not wipe out the incredible contributions he has made to country music over his long career.
Head Case
March 4, 2019 @ 5:01 pm
Maybe not to you, but when thousands of people are trying to sing along to your songs and you keep changing the words to things that make no sense, then yes, to me, it wipes out anything he may have done. Rambling on about Fats Domino and Kid Rock and acting like an idiot and speaking of himself in the third person. Just plain garbage.
dave pringle
March 5, 2019 @ 11:56 am
Sounds like you should have done some homework your describing the way hank shows have always been even back in his glory days if your going to see him recreate his radio songs your gonna be pissed he does his show his way and people been going and loving it for decades granted Hank isn’t for everybody you either love or hate him but I find it funny you figure it out this late in the game you deserve to lose your money because with simply watching a few of his live videos on you tube or facebook you could have saved yourself time and money
Head Case
March 5, 2019 @ 1:11 pm
Who said anything about losing money? I was there to see Lynyrd Skynyrd, who were great. It was just unfortunate for me that I saw Hank Jr open for them and lost all respect for him. I would have never paid money to go see him as a headliner. Maybe you should get off your high horse because telling someone they deserve to lose their money is a real jerk thing to do.
Trigger
March 5, 2019 @ 5:46 pm
If Hank Jr. is inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame, it won’t be for a show he played as a pickled performer last year, it will be for his entire body of work. I think even some of the most dedicated Hank Jr. fans will admit he’s become sort of a caricature of his old self. But his old self deserved to be in the Hall of Fame 15 years ago.
Tim Marks
March 4, 2019 @ 4:43 pm
Keith Whitley and Vern Gosdin are arguably the “best” (not “greatest”) country music singers ever…how they don’t seem to be considered is baffling.
Luckyoldsun
March 5, 2019 @ 12:20 am
Not baffling. They both had too short careers in the mainstream. If there were no limitation on the number of inductees, then sure–both Whitley and Gosdin are deserving. But with the limitation on new entrants, there are always artists ahead of them.
dave pringle
March 5, 2019 @ 5:42 pm
well like you said yourself you went to see skynyrd and loved them perhaps you you have left it at that instead of crying how you didn’t like his show and how you hope no ones awards him anything cause you personally don’t care for his style in my book your on a high horse and being a jerk
Darrel A
March 4, 2019 @ 5:35 pm
I am pulling for Keith Whitley, not only am I a huge fan, but I also know his brother Dwight Whitley & his family personally & know what it will mean to them to see Keith inducted. This year marks 30 years since Keith passed away & it would be a very fitting time for Keith’s induction into the CMHOF.
WILLIAM MCCLEMONS
March 4, 2019 @ 5:37 pm
why the hell hasn;t Gene Watson been inducted by now is beyond belief
Carter
March 5, 2019 @ 11:16 am
The best voice in country music,and been singing it fifty years!
jimincincy
March 4, 2019 @ 5:55 pm
Keith Whitley has influenced more artists in the last twenty years than anyone. Greatest voice of my generation.
Virgil Williams
March 4, 2019 @ 5:58 pm
I don’t give a shit about their pasts, the Hall IS ABSOLUTELY illegitimate until DAC and Paycheck get in.
I know some folks can’t handle anything that makes them uncomfortable, but Jesus Christ already. Get these mofos in.
CeeCeeBee
March 4, 2019 @ 7:22 pm
I don’t know a lot about the controversy surrounding Paycheck, but as for DAC?
I am about the most liberal country music fan you will ever meet. I say let him in.
There is no doubt some of his X-rated material…well personally I think it disgusting… But…
That doesn’t diminish his real and legitimate contributions to country music.
It’s supposed to be about the over all quality of the music, isn’t it? Some nasty material he put out in an ill advised attempt to be funny shouldn’t disqualify him in my opinion. He explaining that crap for the rest of his life. That should be punishment enough.
Tom
March 5, 2019 @ 9:19 am
I’m as big a fan of DAC as anybody, in fact his “17 Greatest Hits” album is what inspired me to take up singing and playing the guitar 30 years ago.
But when I step back and look at him from a broader perspective I see a guy who wrote two songs that were smash hits for other artists; released three top 10 hits himself, none of which hit #1; has won no industry awards; and has a great backstory, albeit one that has changed so many times over the years that it’s hard to know what’s true and what’s not. When I look at him like that I don’t really see a Hall of Fame artist in spite of my personal appreciation of him.
I think it would be great if the Hall would create a niche area to memorialize some of the unique characters of country music like Coe so their stories aren’t forgotten when they’re gone. But I don’t think full enshrinement alongside artists like Hank Williams, Roy Acuff, and Merle Haggard is the way to go. JMHO, of course.
FeedThemHogs
March 6, 2019 @ 5:45 pm
To me, Paycheck should be in on the awesome-ness of his Little Darlin’ work alone… however, I can see the other side of the coin as well. But, man… those Little Darlin’ songs are straight country music in the purest form. I think he gets in eventually….. but probably not this year
A.B.
March 4, 2019 @ 6:02 pm
My picks:
Modern Era: I really want it to be Marty’s year, but I keep seeing Brooks & Dunn everywhere that I’ll just say B&D
Veteran Era: Maddox Bros & Rose, Tanya Tucker or Ray Stevens
Non-Performer: Chet Flippo, Irving Waugh or Les Leverett
anna
March 5, 2019 @ 2:45 pm
Les definitely needs to be considered!
Richie
May 17, 2019 @ 7:32 pm
A.B.,
These were supposedly the finalists for the Hall of Fame this year in the Veterans and Modern categories and there were 7 finalists in each category this year and they were:
Veterans Era: Crystal Gayle, Mickey Gilley, The Osborne Brothers, Linda Ronstadt, The Stanley Brothers, Ray Stevens and The Wilburn Brothers.
Modern Era: Brooks & Dunn, Larry Gatlin & The Gatlin Brothers, The Judds, Marty Stuart, Tanya Tucker, Steve Wariner and Keith Whitley.
What do you think?.
Angelo Rinaldi
March 4, 2019 @ 6:03 pm
SKEETER DAVIS needs to be inducted, one of the best voices and one of the very first women to find success on country radio.
King Honky Of Crackershire
March 4, 2019 @ 6:13 pm
The “Country” Music Hall Of Fame should sell all its artifacts to Marty Stuart, lock its doors, and sell the property to a condo developer. They bastardized themselves 20 years ago, and have no business deciding who or who isn’t worthy of induction.
Piss all over em.
Ron Ballard
March 4, 2019 @ 6:33 pm
Gary stewart..greatest honky tonk singer and great songwriter…also eddie rabbit..great singer songwriter..way overdue
Ray
March 4, 2019 @ 8:10 pm
Modern Era: The Judds, Brooks & Dunn or Marty Stuart
Veteran Era: John Denver, Linda Ronstadt
Non-Perfomer: Eddie Stubbs or Chip
Julian
March 4, 2019 @ 8:30 pm
I’m willing to bet David Allen Coe is never inducted and I’m pretty glad about that.
RD
March 6, 2019 @ 6:37 am
Who is David Allen Coe? You obviously don’t know a fucking thing if you don’t think David Allan Coe deserves to be in the HOF.
ronnie harrison
March 4, 2019 @ 8:35 pm
Jerry lee lewis should have been in a long time ago. He influenced a lot of people including Hank junior I don’t understand why he’s not in already. From 1968 till 1973 Jerry Lee could do no wrong with songs like what made Milwaukee famous she still coming around the love with left of me to make love sweeter for you the list goes on and on and on. Jerry Lee put 65 song on the charts. If I’m not mistaken he had 7 number one hits . Put the killer in before it’s too late while he’s still with us
Erik North
March 5, 2019 @ 8:21 am
I think part of the problem with Jerry Lee is that he never changed his outrageous and flamboyant stage persona, and he wasn’t willing to give up being The Killer. From what I’ve read, when he first performed on the Opry back in 1973, he was allowed to do so on the condition that he restrict the repertoire he did to country, which he was having huge success at the time. All started out well (with “Crazy Arms”), but soon he went into “Great Balls Of Fire” and “Whole Lotta Shakin'” and reportedly shouted, “I’m a rock-and-rollin’, country-and-western, rhythm-and-blues singin’ motherf***er”.
Of course, it really isn’t fair to judge a guy on that one act of bad behavior alone, because if they did that to everyone else in the Country Hall of Fame, it’d be a pretty deserted place by now. But The Killer was and remains a personality unto himself, and he isn’t about to be tamed in his 80s. The CHoF should recognize him for what he bought to the table, even if it is only for what he did between 1968 and 1973, which was a pretty big deal and which was also liked by a lot of his rock and roll fan base as well (IMHO).
Luckyoldsun
March 5, 2019 @ 12:34 am
The H-o-F has something called an “Artist in Residence” program, which they often use as a stepping-stone for induction. Connie Smith, Kenny Rogers, Ricky Skaggs and Alan Jackson all served as Artist in Residence either right before or a couple of years before winning induction. Alan Jackson was A-i-R in 2014. The following year, it was Rosanne Cash. So I think she has a shot.
If Hank Jr. wants to be inducted, I’d suggest that his manager or agent approach the H-o-F and try to get Hank booked as Artist in Residence next year. If he pulls that off–and does a few decent concerts at the Hall, without being drunk and obnoxious, I think they’ll vote him in.
dave pringle
March 5, 2019 @ 12:07 pm
Hank hasn’t did a drunk show in 25 years or and the day will never happen when he does a artist in residence he aint gonna do it he already made hof a fortune giving them the family tradition exhibit and a couple free shows for them…….. they may never induct hom while hes alive but he will never jerk them off and kiss up to get in cause it he don’t care enough about it and he don’t kisss ass
Luckyoldsun
March 5, 2019 @ 3:27 pm
I would assume–or guess–that the performers who’ve done the Artist in Residence gig have enjoyed doing it. If Kenny Rogers, Ricky Skaggs and Alan Jackson could do it, I don’t see why Hank Jr. wouldn’t want to. But if he doesn’t want to, it’s his choice. I think it could be a huge success and would almost certainly win him induction–probably in the same year.
dave pringle
March 5, 2019 @ 5:52 pm
Not saying I think it would be a bad thing either and on paper its a good idea Im just saying Hanks not gonna do a artist in residence for anything or anyone unless it pays him six figures or its with a shotgun and real and if that keeps him out of the hof he could care less im pretty sure he feels that if his record sales his songwriting and box office numbers don’t do it they can blow him!!! people that have accomplished far less than him and made way less impact are in there so whatever….
Trigger
March 5, 2019 @ 5:59 pm
Hank Jr. actually participated in a couple of events at the Country Music Hall of Fame when the major exhibit at the Hall was about the Hank Williams legacy. Not sure if he would do an artist-in-residence, but I think if they chose to induct him, he would not turn down the opportunity to be fawned over for a few hours.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EGhzufWIEIk
Rich
March 5, 2019 @ 2:57 am
It is long overdue that Whitley be inducted. The idea that Kenny Chesney is being considered why so many greats have been overlooked makes me question the whole system
Bruce Kirk
March 11, 2019 @ 7:04 pm
I am not a Kenny Chesney fan at all. I believe that he has won 4 CMA Entertainer of the Year awards. It is inevitable that he will get soon.
OlaR
March 5, 2019 @ 6:12 am
My first pick is Tanya Tucker.
Artists who should be members:
Lee Ann Womack
&
Kathy Mattea, Trisha Yearwood, Patty Loveless, Janie Fricke, Anne Murray (she is a member of the Canadian CMHoF), Alison Krauss (& Union Station) (are the 27 Grammys not enough?), Suzy Bogguss, Pam Tillis, Lorrie Morgan, The Forester Sisters, Sara Evans & The Judds
Singer/Songwriter who should be a member:
Matraca Berg…her first (#1) hit as a songwriter was “Faking Love” recorded by T.G. Sheppard & Karen Brooks in 1983.
Only a couple of many hits written or co-written by Matraca Berg like “The Last One To Know”, “XXX’s & OOO’s”, “Wrong Side Of Memphis”, “Strawberry Wine”, “You Can Feel Bad”, “Hey Cinderella”, “Wild Angels” & “You & Tequila”.
She also wrote songs for Ray Price, Clint Black, Sara Evans, Linda Ronstadt, Dixie Chicks, Faith Hill, Gretchen Peters, canadian duo One More Girl, australian duo SweeneyKilleen…
Long Overdue:
Bobbie Gentry (“Ode To Billie Joe”, “Fancy” & her successful work with Glen Campbell)
&
Donna Fargo (one of the few female artists who wrote her own songs like the award winning #1 hit “The Happiest Girl In The Whole USA” back in the ’70s & with 40+ charted songs incl. 6 #1 hits)
Tom
March 5, 2019 @ 9:26 am
You left out The Girls Next Door and The McCarters.
Jason Hannan
March 5, 2019 @ 8:43 am
Along with Lefty Frizzell and George Jones, Keith Whitley is one of the most influential and talented pure vocalists in the history of the genre. His induction should be a top priority.
James
March 5, 2019 @ 8:31 pm
Two albums does not a career make.
Clayton
March 5, 2019 @ 9:46 am
Ronstadt. Linda Maria Ronstadt. THE GREATEST set of Southwestern pipes. Nuff said.
altaltcountry
March 5, 2019 @ 10:20 am
Overlooked (and dead) veteran: Wayne Raney.
Along with the Delmore Brothers (who are inductees), his early boogie songs paved the way for early rock and roll. In the early 60’s, he formed Rimrock Records, which recorded (and pressed) country, bluegrass, and rockabilly (Teddy Riedel was the house pianist). He’s a prolific writer as well as performer. He and Lonnie Glosson are primarily responsible for the popularity of the harmonica in country music, and the pair sold millions of harmonicas by mail order (before Amazon!), making fans into active amateur performers. Like many country musicians of his era, he cut several gospel records, which rank among the best. He performed on the Grand Ole Opry, California Hayride, the Wheeling Jamboree, and Hee Haw.
Boomer alert: Raney played organ and sang harmony on the McCoy’s “Hang On Sloopy.”
altaltcountry
March 5, 2019 @ 10:29 am
Correction: that’s Zyndall Raney, Wayne’s son, playing on Hang on Sloopy.
Carter
March 5, 2019 @ 11:08 am
Gene Watson…….PAST TIME !
Bobaloo
March 5, 2019 @ 1:11 pm
My predictions:
• Modern era: The Judds, with Brooks & Dunn a close second. For me, while B&D’s record is solid and deserves consideration, the duo that preceded them came first and it was their close harmony that made for some most memorable songs. If there ever was an underdog in country music, it’s Gene Watson, and I have to say I love a good underdog story where good guys finish first.
• Veterans’ era: Hank Williams Jr. or Jerry Lee Lewis. Linda Ronstadt would be a great pick, and although they’ve had far more success in rock than country music, the influence and credibility of The Eagles cannot be denied.
• Non-performer: Bob Kingsley, radio personality, current host of “Country Top 40,” and longtime host of “American Country Countdown.” It would be something to see competing radio hosts inducted the same year, but Kingsley’s long track record of success in radio speaks for itself. He is a trusted, go-to source and an expert in the genre.
This may be the year to once again waive the rules and go with the top 2 or 3 vote-getters in each category to play catch up.
FeedThemHogs
March 6, 2019 @ 5:54 pm
Bob Kingsley… now there’s an iconic voice in the industry.
I’m 25 but remember hearing his pipes on the American Country Countdown as a part of my childhood. It’s been forever since I’ve listened to or even heard him.. but man… what a nostalgic throwback you just brought me…
MS3
March 5, 2019 @ 1:24 pm
He barely gets a mention in your piece, but maybe there’s no Dwight Yoakam without Wynn Stewart and I’d bet DY would be the first to tell you that. And Johnny Paycheck’s exclusion from the HoF is just shameful. Think about it this way: Kenny Chesney a potential inductee when these guys aren’t in??
Cody
March 5, 2019 @ 6:17 pm
I agree – PayCheck needs to go in. His whole career, sideman for Jones, Price, singing and writing for a host of folks, the Little Darlin’ years – before the Outlaw Movement alone he had a helluva influential career!
anna
March 5, 2019 @ 2:09 pm
I’d love to see Keith or Dwight get in this year, but another singer and songwriter who kept it country and deserves serious consideration — even when doing rock ‘n’ roll covers — is John Anderson, hands-down. In fact, the Hall should just put John on exhibit and title it the last great country singer IMHO. Along with Watson, Emmylou, Mel Street, Johnny Bush and a couple of others, they were fighting the good fight when mainstream country was turning into pop pablum.
FeedThemHogs
March 6, 2019 @ 5:55 pm
Nothing better than his “Wild & Blue” album. Stout country music
Cody
March 5, 2019 @ 5:49 pm
My two cents…
I don’t think Whitley should go in. Decades after his untimely death you’re still voting on what would have been instead of what he actually did. I compare him to his one time duet partner Earl Thomas Conley, who actually wrote many of his songs and even had four #1’s off one album – had Conley died in the late 80’s we’d be clamoring for him to be in, though since he didn’t we realize now he probably doesn’t belong.
Hank Jr. shouldn’t have do any dog and pony shows as an Artist in Residence or need a public campaign – he needs to go in. I don’t agree with his politics and his recent albums and concerts may be lacking but in his day he was a monster – his songwriting, when on, was steller and his interpretations, well he tackled the Beatles’ “Norwegian Wood” and didn’t do too bad. His numbers speak for himself; it’d be like keeping Manning out of the NFL Hall of Fame.
James
March 5, 2019 @ 6:32 pm
I love this piece. Every year at this time, you see so many people saying “Put ___ in the CMHOF now!”, but you present the challenges in an understandable way. One thing that drives me nuts in those conversations where someone comments “____ should be in. No discussion needed.” That’s unfortunate they think that way, because discussion is very much needed. Every artist who might be in contention in the Veterans category has a tough hill to climb, and you make it clear why that is. Thanks for being objective. There’s a time to be passionate, and a time to simply lay out the situation for the readers.
Trigger
March 5, 2019 @ 11:18 pm
Thanks James.
I feel like there’s two questions we have to ask with potential artists. 1) – Do we think they’re Hall of Fame worthy? 2) – Can we even consider them for the Hall of Fame at the moment with the incredible backlog of artists, especially in the Veterans category? There a re a lot of artists that are probably Hall of Fame worthy, but until the bigger names ahead of them get in, they may not even be worth discussing.
David B
March 5, 2019 @ 9:52 pm
Yes, It’s time again for the “Hall of Fame game”. I have about gave up predicting who will get the award. Like all awards, this one is somewhat political as well. I think anyone who really follows the Hall of Fame and CMA circles could come close in guessing the nominees from year to year. Personally, I believe these are possibly the nominees this year:
VETERANS CATEGORY
Larry Gatlin & The Gatlin Brothers – Larry, Steve & Rudy had a great solid career, and are still very popular. It’s just a matter of time before they are elected.
Crystal Gayle – She is presently the glaring female omission. What a career throughout the 1970’s and 1980’s.
Mickey Gilley – With awards, chart numbers and a career in general comparable to Don Williams, Gilley will be elected at some point.
Ray Stevens – Where do you put the great Ray Stevens? Comedian?, yes! But he also comes with other classics such as “Everything is Beautiful” and the Grammy winner “Misty”. Millions of Records sales are under his belt. He will go in very soon.
Hank Williams, Jr. – This legend is the most glaring living omission from the Hall of Fame. 2x CMA Entertainer of the Year award winner, with a 55+ year career. If he was not so politically vocal, he would already be in. The question is, when will they do it? It may be after he is deceased. And you known what? I doubt he cares.
Others – The Osborne Brothers & The Stanley Brothers could be possible surprises in this category soon. Other possibilities are The Wilburn Brothers, Anne Murray, Jerry Clower, Gene Watson & Vern Gosdin. Also, we need not to overlook Jerry Lee Lewis and Linda Ronstadt. Both had great and huge cross over success in Country Music, and both are in the news a lot lately. Grossly overlooked is the great Stonewall Jackson. The last of the great honky tonkers not inducted, and sadly it more than likely will not happen.
MODERN CATEGORY
Brooks & Dunn – If the CMA looks to anyone from 1990-1999 its going to be this legendary duo. The biggest selling duo in Country Music History. Its a no-brainer, but I feel it still may be a few years to soon. Let’s look back into the 1980’s a few more years.
The Judds – Let’s face it, they are Hall of Famers. If not this year, within the next three. They had one of the biggest careers of the 1980’s. Many awards and millions of record sales.
Tanya Tucker – Yes I know her career started with Delta Dawn” in 1972. But she was the 1991 CMA Female Vocalist of the year, and I believe that is what is going to be considered at this point in time. Next to Crystal Gayle, she is the next most deserving female to be considered.
Steve Wariner – One of the most respected singers, songwriters and instrumentalists in the history of Country Music. A great solid hit making career from 1979 to 2003. In fact, it would not surprise me if he is not inducted this year.
Keith Whitley – He was the Patsy Cline of his generation. Taken too soon, and only grown in popularity since his untimely death. He is just one of those artists you know would have gone so far in Country Music.
Others – One act seldom mentioned is The Bellamy Brothers; but look at their carrer numbers. They are Hall of Famers. It will just take someone getting behind them and pushing for it. Marty Stuart (maybe sooner than later) will go in within the next five years. I think Dwight Yoakum will be considered soon, as well as Clint Black, Patty Loveless and as you go into the 1990’s (after Brooks & Dunn), Martina McBride. Others, Toby Keith, Kenny Chesney, Tim McGraw will have to wait a little longer.
NON-PERFORMER
I think there is great consideration for the late Louise Scruggs, as well as the late Irving Waugh, Buddy Killen and Sam Louvello. This may be a very posthumous nominee filled category this year.
Richie
April 21, 2019 @ 3:57 pm
David B,
These were supposedly the finalists for the Hall of Fame this year in the Veterans and Modern categories and there were 7 finalists in each category this year and they were:
Veterans Era: Crystal Gayle, Mickey Gilley, The Osborne Brothers, Linda Ronstadt, The Stanley Brothers, Ray Stevens and The Wilburn Brothers.
Modern Era: Brooks & Dunn, Larry Gatlin & The Gatlin Brothers, The Judds, Marty Stuart, Tanya Tucker, Steve Wariner and Keith Whitley.
What do you think?.
David B
April 21, 2019 @ 5:42 pm
That would not surprise me at all. Crazy that Hank, Jr., was not considered.
Richie
May 13, 2019 @ 4:24 pm
David B,
Hank, Jr. has told people that he doesn’t care if he gets in the Hall of Fame or not and that if he does get elected, he will not show up for the induction announcement, so that’s why he wasn’t considered as a finalist for induction into the Hall of Fame this year.
As I’ve said it before, the finalists for the Hall of Fame this year were supposedly:
Veterans Era: Crystal Gayle, Mickey Gilley, The Osborne Brothers, Linda Ronstadt, The Stanley Brothers, Ray Stevens and The Wilburn Brothers.
Modern Era: Brooks & Dunn, Larry Gatlin & The Gatlin Brothers, The Judds, Marty Stuart, Tanya Tucker, Steve Wariner and Keith Whitley.
What do you think?.
Tom
March 6, 2019 @ 7:53 am
As much a it pains me to say it – and I’m gagging as I type this – when you look at chart success, industry awards, album sales, and overall impact on the genre……. Shania Twain really needs to be a part of the Modern Era discussion.
A.B.
March 6, 2019 @ 3:02 pm
2019 inductees will be announced on Monday, March 18th and Reba’s hosting.
Jordan Stacey
March 6, 2019 @ 5:40 pm
As someone who would love to see more female representation, I would love to see Rosanne Cash, Mary Chapin Carpenter, Kathy Mattea, Janie Fricke, and Patty Loveless start to see some serious discussion in the upcoming years. Imo I can’t see Lorrie Morgan making it in before them.
Now that 90’s artists are starting to get considered it won’t be long before Martina McBride, Trisha Yearwood, Pam Tillis and Faith Hill also start edging their way into things. Shania I can see jumping ahead of Pam and Faith I guess based on her success but I’d hope they get at least a few others ahead of her.
For Veterans, I’d love to see Tanya Tucker, Lynn Anderson, Skeeter Davis, Rose Maddox and June Carter be the front runners.
I of course still have a long list of males I’d like to see inducted but they do tend to get more attention overall. One name I never see come up is David Houston, why isn’t he ever really discussed?
Doug
March 8, 2019 @ 9:08 am
Seeing the list of artists I love who aren’t in the Hall of Fame makes me feel pretty much the same way I usually feel on the day after election day — shitty. Keith Whitley isn’t in? You’re joking, right? It’s less surprising that Gram hasn’t made it; putting pot leaves and pills on your Nudie suit (not to mention shooting heroin with Keith Richards in the south of France) doesn’t count as a charm offensive with a lot of those voters, I’d guess. Never mind the music.
Matthew
March 8, 2019 @ 1:13 pm
The next woman that goes into the hall of fame should be Lynn Anderson. Long overdue. Considering how long it took to recognize Dottie West, I have my doubts but Lynn amassed at least eight number one hits, many top 20 hits, won a grammy for Rose Garden and was the ACM females vocatlist twice, the CMA once and the first country female to win the American Music Awards. She has an amazing body of work. She really needs to be there soon. It’s a shame so many people die before receiving this honor. Also, the number of people inducted each year should be increased for heaven’s sake or most performers will be dead before entry.
Eddie
March 9, 2019 @ 6:42 pm
I think the second generation of the Carter Family (the Carter Sisters & Mother Maybelle) should definitely be considered in the veteran category. They had a long and distinguished career that began in the 30s and 40s and continued into the 90s even after Maybelle’s death in the late 70s. As a group they were major radio stars and have had so much influence on country music. Each of them were successful solo artists in one way or another too. If the group was elected it would make Maybelle Carter the only female to be inducted twice. She was one of the first two females inducted. Maybelle, Helen, June & Anita were important in the 1950s Nashville era; through the 60s folk scene and beyond!
Eddie
March 9, 2019 @ 6:54 pm
For the Veteran’s category I think we need to finally induct the Carter Sisters and Mother Maybelle. Their influence on country music continues to this day. They were one of the very first self-contained all female groups, pioneering in many ways as their career is studied. They were major radio stars beginning in the 40s and 50s. They were important during the folk era of the 60s. Each member of the group was successful as a soloist in her own way too. They were all great musicians, great song-writers and singers. If elected this would make Maybelle Carter the ONLY female in the CMHOF to be elected twice. She surely is the only deserving one for that honor so far!
Woogeroo
March 11, 2019 @ 5:26 am
BOCEPHUS!
xD
-W
Bruce Kirk
March 11, 2019 @ 6:59 pm
Jack Greene and Wynn Stewart both belong in the Hall of Fame.
Keith Whitley should get the Modern vote.
Buddy Killen or Eddie Stubbs for the third category.
Tom R.
March 12, 2019 @ 1:18 pm
Veteran – hoping for Wanda Jackson while she’s still around to enjoy it even though Skeeter Davis and Lynn Anderson were both bigger names in country.
Contemporary – Dwight Yoakam
Non-performer: John Lair ( star maker and powerful player in 40s-60s country with Renfro Valley, nominated decades ago when the HOF named the five contenders each year; of course, modern Nashville probably has no clue who he was.)
Interesting to see John Denver and Chet Flippo both being mentioned, given Flippo was the main and most powerful culprit of trashing Denver’s music via Rolling Stone. I think Robert Oerrman has a better chance among journalists of getting elected as he is good friends with quite a few power players (and arguably deserves it more than any other journalist).
Jeff Weed
March 12, 2019 @ 5:52 pm
The great songwriter Bob McDill should’ve been inducted years ago. He’s written tons of classics.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Songs_written_by_Bob_McDill
Bernadette Coombs
March 13, 2019 @ 12:05 am
Jerry Lee Lewis should have been inducted a long time ago as in my opinion, I think he changed Country music for the better. Way to go, Killer!
Ain't No Ham Like Birmingham
March 13, 2019 @ 6:50 pm
MODERN ERA: The Judds or Brooks And Dunn
VETERANS’ ERA: Hank Williams, Jr. or The Stanley Brothers, Ralph and Carter
NON-PERFORMER: John Lair or Chips Moman
RED AND WESLEY
March 13, 2019 @ 6:58 pm
MODERN ERA: The Judds or Brooks And Dunn
VETERANS’ ERA: Hank Williams, Jr. or The Stanley Brothers, Ralph and Carter
NON-PERFORMER: John Lair or Chips Moman
Josh Evans
April 4, 2019 @ 12:17 am
Brooks And Dunn are already announced as The Modern Era inductees into the Hall Of fame this year
Michelle
March 16, 2019 @ 10:38 am
Dwight, Marty, Gene — yes yes and yes!
Janice Brooks
March 17, 2019 @ 2:08 pm
Announcment tomorrow morning March 18.
Lillian Bracy
March 17, 2019 @ 8:23 pm
Donna Fargo and K. T. Oslen and Johnny and Jack and The Maddox Brothers needs to be in CMHF!!!
Shirl
March 19, 2019 @ 5:38 pm
The incomparable Carter Stanley and his brother, Ralph, The Stanley Brothers. Way overdue.
Jeanie Stanley
March 29, 2019 @ 8:40 pm
I can’t believe somebody would title an article ‘Ralph Stanley’ or ‘The Stanley Brothers!’ Are you freakin’ kidding me? Ralph & Carter Stanley started out together. They grew up together, lived together, traveled together & they’re buried next to one another. They were a team. They’re not in flippin’ competion here! Don’t put them in that position! How disrespectful can you be? Did you induct Charlie Louvin & leave Ira Louvin out just because Ira passed early & Charlie carried on 40 plus years? Just because Carter passed early in 1966 is no reason to obliterate his name from an honor that he earned a very long time ago. Stupid people. There’s already been a petition submitted to the CMHOF with over 10,000 names on it FOR the Stanley Brothers. That’s what Ralph Stanley’s last request was. CMA, honor it!
Trigger
March 29, 2019 @ 10:02 pm
Hello Jeanie,
I appreciate your concern. But just to clarify, no “article” was titled “Ralph Stanley or The Stanley Brothers.” It was simply a heading in a much larger article. Also, it was not meant as disrespect to the legacy of Carter Stanley whatsoever, or to advocate that Carter not be inducted with his brother. It simply laid out the possibility that the Country Music Hall of Fame COULD choose to induct Ralph independently, COULD choose to induct The Stanley Brothers, or as has happened in some cases, it could induct both. The Veterans Era induction process has been very curious, and very unpredictable over the last few years, 2019 being no different with Ray Stevens going in over what in my opinion are much more worthy candidates, including The Stanley Brothers. This article was simply to lay out possibilities. Ultimately it is up to the CMA committee to choose who and how to induct new members, as I’m sure you know.
I hope this makes sense.
Jeanie Stanley
March 30, 2019 @ 1:35 pm
I appreciate the clarification. Why even bring something like this up? Don’t we have bigger fish to fry? This should never even be mentioned again. It is disrespectful to Carter Stanley whether it was intended to be or not. My family takes it that way & so do I. It confuses all concerned & is hurtful. The Country Music Association needs to be more sensitive to the pioneers who helped build our great country music. As I’ve said many times on social media, my uncle, Dr. Ralph Stanley, told me face to face, that his last request was for he & Brother Carter to be inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame, together, just like they started out, side by side. This is not heresay. I was there. He uttered those exact words. AFTER the Stanley Brothers are inducted together I’d love nothing more than for Ralph Stanley to be inducted as a solo artist. I believe Roy Rogers was inducted as one of the Sons of the Pioneers & then as a solo artist. I appreciate your concern.
Josh Evans
April 4, 2019 @ 12:14 am
my picks for the 2020 country music hall of fame:
Modern Era: Keith Whitley
Veterans Era : Stanley Brothers
Songwriter: Albert E Brumley
Richie
April 18, 2019 @ 8:32 am
These were supposedly the finalists for the Hall of Fame this year in the Veterans and Modern categories and there were 7 finalists in each category this year and they were:
Veterans Era: Crystal Gayle, Mickey Gilley, The Osborne Brothers, Linda Ronstadt, The Stanley Brothers, Ray Stevens and The Wilburn Brothers.
Modern Era: Brooks & Dunn, Larry Gatlin & The Gatlin Brothers, The Judds, Marty Stuart, Tanya Tucker, Steve Wariner and Keith Whitley.
John Seay
May 21, 2019 @ 12:44 pm
When you think of “southern rock country” you can’t look past the trail blazing impact both Travis Tritt & Hank jr made on fans & the entire music industry. When your concerts are still selling out decades later is there really any question as to who should be selected to the CMA HOF in 2019.
Earl McMullin
June 10, 2019 @ 6:44 pm
The most deserving performer for induction in next Country Music Hall of Fame should be Slim Whitman. One would just look as this success over 60 years history. He should have been selected years ago, especially, when I see the last 20 members inducted. His talent has not been matched by any of the last 20……SAD.
Richie
July 18, 2019 @ 9:28 pm
Trigger, David B & others,
The finalists for the Hall of Fame in the Veterans and Modern categories this past year actually were supposedly:
Veterans Era: Larry Gatlin & The Gatlin Brothers, Crystal Gayle, Mickey Gilley, The Osborne Brothers, The Stanley Brothers, Ray Stevens and Hank Williams, Jr.
Modern Era: Brooks & Dunn, The Judds, Marty Stuart, Tanya Tucker, Steve Wariner and Keith Whitley.
What do you think?.
Greg
August 5, 2019 @ 10:38 am
Great discussion. All the artists mentioned have a strong case to be enshrined. My modern era list includes Marty Stuart, Dwight Yoakam, Steve Earle, Guy Clarke and Allison Krauss (How is she not already in the HOF? Her band Union Station with the great Jerry Douglas also deserves consideration).
My Veteran Era list includes Gram Parsons and someone who deserves more credit as a great country music ambassador: Ray Charles. If Elvis deserves to be in the Hall of Fame (and he does), so does Ray Charles. His two-volume Modern Sounds in Country and Western Music are masterpieces. And Charles played country music throughout his career.
Erik Kaldor
August 27, 2019 @ 3:23 pm
After one listen to Tanya Tucker’s stellar album, “While I’m Livin’” I’m convinced that if voters don’t agree she belongs in the Hall of Fame, that there really is no justice in the world.
Jim
October 5, 2019 @ 12:57 pm
Absolutely Jimmy Martin should be in regardless if he was a jerk. He has more cuts on the Will the Circle Be Unbroken than any artist.
Randolph Greer
October 9, 2019 @ 2:10 pm
While there may be some objections to my list for various reasons, I have made a list of what I consider to be the most deserving candidates for the Hall Of Fame. There are twenty of them, and while there may be others I have not listed, I really believe that the ones I do list can only enhance the Hall Of Fame itself. (1) Stonewall Jackson (2) Doc Watson (3) The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band (4) Marty Stuart (5) John Denver (6) John Hartford ( 7) Johnny Horton (8) Vern Gosdin (9) The Stanley Brothers (10) and Hank Williams Jr. And now the ladies… (11) Anne Murray (12) Linda Ronstadt (13) Skeeter Davis (14) Crystal Gayle (15) Tanya Tucker (16) The Judds (17) Wanda Jackson (18) June Carter and Carter Sisters (19) Patty Loveless (20) and Alison Krauss.
Michael Gifford
January 13, 2020 @ 5:28 am
Past time for Crystal Gayle and Jerry Lee Lewis to be inducted into the country music hall of fame.