Ken Burns Country Film Exposes Holes in Hall of Fame Membership
The Ken Burns-directed Country Music documentary on PBS did a lot of great work reinvigorating interest in the history of country music, and hopefully resetting the mindset of what country music actually is compared by what is represented on country radio today. Though there has been much discussion about the important country music figures the film missed, it’s also important to harp on what the film got right and did include, including a lot of important performers who too often have gone lost in time.
Something that became obvious while watching the documentary is a few of the egregious oversights the Country Music Hall of Fame has been a party to when it comes to its inductees. Unlike other Halls of Fame, The CMA, which chooses the inductees, is extremely selective of who they let in, only allowing three new members in each year (read the rules). Though this is a fair and understandable approach to operating a Hall of Fame, there remains some glaring omissions, and ones that the Ken Burns documentary helped to illustrate.
If you’re looking for a more in-depth list of potential Hall of Fame inductees or oversights, check out Saving Country Music’s picks and prognostications from earlier in 2019. But below are the names that Country Music by Ken Burns specifically helped prove are Hall of Fame worthy.
The Maddox Brothers & Rose
Featured prominently in both the 2nd and 3rd episodes of the Ken Burns film, Country Music illustrated the pivotal role this family band played in the early formation of what we consider country music today. So many aspects of country music and rock n’ roll were heavily influenced by this family of Alabama migrants who ended up in California, and started playing “hillbilly” music during The Depression to get out of day labor.
The Maddox Brothers & Rose set the very foundations for both The Bakersfield Sound, and California Country at large that would become wildly influential in the coming years. Their flamboyant stage dress inspired by the cowboys of the silver screen directly sparked the Nudie Suit craze in country music that is still en vogue today. And Rose Maddox was one of the very first successful women in country music, and opened up the role of women as country entertainers for generations to come.
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 96-year-old Don Maddox, who was the comedian and fiddler for the band—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 The Maddox Brothers & Rose early in their career. Don was the oldest person interviewed in the documentary who is still alive.
When the Country Music Hall of Fame featured their big Bakersfield Sound exhibit a few years ago, the very first thing that would greet visitors was a display for The Maddox Brothers & Rose. Now with the renewed interest from the Ken Burns film, it’s time for the Hall of Fame to do the right thing and give this influential band a full induction.
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, and it’s comical that it’s rumored he’s not even being seriously considered. Two CMA Entertainer of the Year awards, three ACM Entertainer of the Year awards, 70 millions of albums sold, 13 #1 albums, 21 straight Gold records, and 10 #1 singles, Hank Williams Jr. has the resume and then some for the Hall of Fame.
Featured in the 7th episode of the Ken Burns documentary, the film told Hank Jr.’s story of performing his father’s songs starting at the age of 8, all the way to becoming one of the most successful stars in country music history. But unlike many of the other artists featured in the 7th episode of Country Music, including Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, Emmylou Harris, and Dolly Parton, Hall of Fame induction has eluded Hank.
Some claim the reason Hank Jr. still hasn’t been inducted is due to the concern he wouldn’t acknowledge the accolade, and wouldn’t show up to the announcement or the induction ceremony. But it doesn’t matter if Hank Williams Jr. wants to be in the Country Music Hall of Fame or not. What matters is if he belongs there, which he does. One of the reasons Hank Jr. possibly doesn’t care if the Hall of Fame honors him or not is because he’s the most obvious snubbing in the institution’s history, and he’s rightfully angry about it.
A movement started a few years called Bocephus Belongs is hoping to help push Hank Jr. over the top and get him into the Hall of Fame 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.
The Stanley Brothers and Ralph Stanley
Though not the most commercially successful country or bluegrass artists of all time, as the Ken Burns film helped explain, the importance of these two brothers, and later Ralph Stanley’s solo career, was seminal to country and bluegrass. They were one of the most pure lines to the original Appalachian influence in country music.
After passing away in 2016, Ralph Stanley and The Stanley Brothers emerged as a glaring omission in the ranks of Hall of Fame members. Their legacy received a second wind after the success of O Brother Where Art Thou. 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 and/or The Stanley Brothers would be a strong pick for the Hall of Fame few would quibble with.
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 Keith 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 Keith Whitley is that the Hall of Fame recently opened a special exhibit dedicated to him as part of the Hall’s annual revolving exhibit schedule. Keith Whitley wasn’t featured prominently in the Ken Burns documentary, but the story was told how his death inspired Vince Gill’s “Go Rest High On That Mountain.” Gill singing the song at George Jones’s funeral was arguably the most emotional moment of the entire documentary.
Marty Stuart
The involvement of Marty Stuart in the Ken Burns documentary underscored why Marty Stuart should be in the Hall of Fame someday irrespective of his limited commercial success. Marty Stuart is country music. He’s a walking encyclopedia of the genre, a tireless ambassador for the music, and a man that owns many of the artifacts that are included in the Hall’s museum display cases.
Along with all the great commentary Marty Stuart lent to the documentary, it also told the story of Stuart starting as a performer as a boy in Lester Flatts band, getting to play the Grand Ole Opry at age 13, and later marrying Country Music Hall of Famer Connie Smith. If there was ever a man that deserved to be in the Hall of Fame solely for his work off the stage, it would be Marty Stuart. He just also happens to be one hell of a performer, and had his moment in the spotlight during the “No Hat” days as well, however brief.
Gram Parsons
Parsons is probably still a long shot for the Hall of Fame, but it’s hard to make the case that anybody was a bigger ambassador for country music than Gram. Gram Parsons showed millions of non-country fans that country music could be cool. He turned The Rolling Stones into country fans. He discovered one of the most important women in country music history in Emmylou Harris, and as the Ken Burns country documentary illustrated brilliantly, sparked a resurgence of interest in country within the genre itself that Emmylou carried into the next generation.
In the 7th episode, the story was told how Willie Nelson’s daughter showed him a copy of “Pancho & Lefty” that Emmylou had recorded. It was 4 in the morning, and Willie woke up Merle on his bus to record the song. Gram Parsons turned Emmylou Harris onto the beauty of country music when she was a folk singer living in Washington D.C. After the death of Gram, Emmylou went on a quest to share her newfound love for country with the rest of the world by covering many country standards, and some that would soon become them like “Pancho & Lefty.” Emmylou said she was obsessed to the point of annoying people about it, and it ultimately led to Willie and Merle recording a track written by Townes Van Zandt, which became Van Zandt’s first and only #1 song, and solidified his place in history.
Since Gram Parson died young in 1973, he never got a chance to be prolific, or to settle into his proper place in country music history. But Gram was way much more than “that guy who played in the Byrds.” He pushed The Byrds to record a country record in Nashville. His solo career and work with The Flying Burrito Brothers resulted in some of the most influential country records in history. He revitalized interest in The Louvin Brothers. Emmylou Harris is in the Hall of Fame due to Gram opening doors for her, and instilling her with the love of country. For his influence, Gram Parsons deserves to be considered for the Country Music Hall of Fame as well.
Other Considerations
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. Ken Burns did a good job explaining why the legacy of The Judds was so important to their era in country, and how their lives beyond the stage embodied many of country music’s underlying themes.
Rosanne Cash- Folks sometimes forget just how big Rosanne Cash got in the 80’s with ten #1 hits, and how she was a huge influence on the genre at the time. She’s not just Johnny Cash’s daughter, or an Americana icon. The Ken Burns film explained how with husband and producer Rodney Crowell, the 2nd generation star helped bring country music to a new generation of listeners.
Hazel Smith – The only issue with Hazel Smith’s commentary in the Ken Burns documentary is there wasn’t enough of it. As the woman who invented the term “Outlaw Country” and helped run Hillbilly Central where the Outlaw movement was centered, she deserves her place in country music history. Beyond coining a marketing term, many don’t know that Hazel Smith was a prolific songwriter, and later a journalist and commentator, helping to keep the history of country music alive. She is the mother hen of country music. Along with journalist Chet Flippo, Hazel Smith deserves to be in the Hall of Fame for making sure what happened during one of country music’s most important eras was chronicled for the future.
Michelle
October 5, 2019 @ 9:15 am
I do believe the Judds will be the next inductees.
Trigger
October 5, 2019 @ 9:51 am
I think The Judds, Keith Whitley, and Marty Stuart all make it in within the next 3 to 5 years. The Judds will be near the top of the list next year for sure. Hank Jr. and The Maddox Brothers & Rose feel like they will never make it in. The Veteran’s Era category is a mess.
Richie
October 5, 2019 @ 10:45 am
Trigger,
What also helps The Judds for getting into the Hall of Fame is because they recently had an exhibit at the Hall of Fame & Museum titled: The Judds: Dream Chasers which opened on August 10, 2018 and ran through July 14, 2019. in addition, Wynonna recently did an interview at the Hall of Fame & Museum on September 8 and looked back at her long career (both as part of The Judds and her solo career), so I think that The Judds will be at the top of the list for the Hall of Fame in the Modern category this year coming up for sure.
What do you think?.
Trigger
October 5, 2019 @ 10:50 am
I definitely will have The Judds at or near the top of my list as Modern Era inductees for next year when I post in in February/March.
The Tanya Tucker quotient is interesting though, and since she started her career so early, hypothetically she could go in through either Veterans or Modern.
Scotty J
October 5, 2019 @ 12:56 pm
If their 45 year rule means anything then Tucker almost has to be Veteran. In 2020 45 years will be 1975 and by that point she had five #1’s and three other top ten hits and had been around since 1972. You didn’t mention him in this comment but Hank Jr had 36 country hits by 1975.
So, yes, the Veterans category is a joke and what they need is a fourth category because the range is getting way to big.
Stacy
October 6, 2019 @ 6:49 am
What about Earl Thomas Conley he should have been in a longtime ago
Trigger
October 6, 2019 @ 9:31 am
Earl Thomas Conley will be ineligible next year because he just died. There is a rule in the bylaws to stave off sympathy votes that say a person can’t be inducted a year after their death. So it will be 2021 at the earliest for Earl Thomas Conley.
Scotty J
October 5, 2019 @ 12:15 pm
At this point they need to either put Hank Jr. in or make some kind of statement that he will never get in because it is truly indefensible that he is not in. By almost every possible metric he is more deserving than about 75% of the recent inductees. Whether it be sales, radio, awards, touring and most importantly impact on the genre and influence on countless artists.
It’s a real black mark on the HOF until this is resolved.
hoptowntiger94
October 5, 2019 @ 10:14 am
I’m not so sure about The Judds. Notice how every artist from the era has at least one tribute album and The Judds have none? Their off the field behavior which is weird (and that’s being polite … the mother fucked up those girls) has made them leprosy in genre. That CMA anniversary and neither Judd was mentioned. Too much shit in that closet!
Bill Knowlton
October 6, 2019 @ 1:14 pm
you are all missing the most deplorable omissions of all: the pioneer first generation of country music superstars of the ‘twenties thru forties…such as Bradley Kincaid, Lulu Belle & Scotty, Gid Tanner, Charlie Poole, Molly O’Day, John “Renfro Valley” Lair, Wilf Carter (and on and on).. This is as tragic as if the Baseball Hall Of Fame omitted Babe Ruth or Lou Gehrig!! Sadly whoever now chooses nominees probably has never heard of these pioneers. Do your brain a favor and google all of the above.
Davis
October 9, 2019 @ 5:46 pm
And what about the Stanley Brothers? Carter Stanley was the driving force there. They had to carve their own path with no help from the Opry or big-name sponsors. They started out in 1946. They were the second group to come out after Bill Monroe. Carter and Ralph Stanley out some of the best music ever recorded. ‘O’ Brother, Where Art Thou?’ showed us all how much their kind of music is loved worldwide.
Kenny M,Adkins
October 6, 2019 @ 3:15 pm
The Stanley Brothers
Lynn
October 7, 2019 @ 11:14 pm
Hallelujah. The Stanley Brothers have been overlooked for so many years. Carter and Ralph are known & loved world wide. They have influenced so many. Artists still sing & record their music. These 2 men should definitely be the NEXT to go in the CMHOF.
Tony Noel
October 9, 2019 @ 8:12 pm
The Stanley Brothers even have songs in the Library of Congress
Scooter Sykes
October 6, 2019 @ 9:15 pm
why haven’t the Stanley brothers been inducted. they were pioneers.they played at Bristol where it all got started.
George Morgan
October 7, 2019 @ 4:58 am
I’m seventy years old. Grew up on a farm.
When I was younger, the only true Bluegrass Record available was Bill Monroe and the Stanley Brothers. They were the top Musicians!
Carters voice and Ralph’s playing were as innovative as Monroe!!
If Bill Monroe is in, which is he, they must be!!
I’ve been playing bluegrass 40 years and been to HOF
Many times!!
Every time I walk out I’m amazed!! There isn’t a day when I go there, that I try to find them. I keep looking for A Stanley Brothers Bronze plaque!
Not there yet. I can’t imagine how their families feel, knowing one day we’ll be gone!! Never to know a family members that should have gotten what they deserve!!
Knowing they may never see it happen!
We/they, ain’t gettin no younger!!
That’s all!!
Davis
October 9, 2019 @ 4:54 pm
The Judds have plenty of time to be inducted into the CMHOF. There are many who have passed on who are just as deserving.
Carol Murphy
October 5, 2019 @ 9:47 am
Wasn’t the hesitation (or at least one of them) for inducting Waylon into the HoF was that he would not show up? Yet they finally honored him. Irony: he was too sick to attend the ceremony, as I recall.
Barb
October 5, 2019 @ 9:58 am
Totally agree with this article! Watched “Country Music” and learned so much about the history and musicians, singers, and songwriters who made country music. Cant believe the artists mentioned in this article ( especially Marty Stuart) arent already in the Hall of Fame!
Jim L.
October 5, 2019 @ 9:58 am
I’m shocked that Marty Stuart is still waiting.
Buck
October 9, 2019 @ 11:12 am
You are all crazy. HANK HANK HANK!!!!!!!!!!!!
Only the top 5 most influential artists in country music history!!!!
Davis
October 9, 2019 @ 5:28 pm
Marty Stuart is still relatively young. He has plenty of time yet to go in. Some have been waiting much longer than he has.
Trigger
October 9, 2019 @ 5:41 pm
Hey Davis,
One important thing to understand about the Hall of Fame process is there’s two eras: Modern and Veteran. Acts like Marty Stuart and The Judds would go in as Modern Era nominees. That means they wouldn’t be taking spots from people who’ve been waiting longer. If you’ve been active for more than 40 years, you’re a Veteran nominee. That is where the massive backlog of artists who’ve been waiting a long time is. The CMA Committee that chooses inductees only chooses one Veteran and one Modern each year.
RD
October 5, 2019 @ 10:12 am
Tanya Tucker!
Trigger
October 5, 2019 @ 10:34 am
Tanya Tucker was not really featured on the documentary unfortunately, so that’s why she wasn’t mentioned here. I did list her as a contender in the article about the Hall of Fame posted earlier this year. However I think with the resurgence in her career and the new album, her Hall of Fame stock will be on the dramatic rise for next year’s consideration. The Hall of Fame loves to induct artists who have something active going on. Brooks & Dunn got inducted right as their “Reboot” project was taking off. Don’t be surprised if Tanya hopscotches a bunch of names in the filed next year and at least gets on the final ballot.
Lil Dale is alive and at are brekfest taball every day of the week
October 5, 2019 @ 10:59 am
if Ronnie Van Zant was here he wood nock out all of yur teeth for wut u said about Townes Van Zandt that time
OlaR
October 5, 2019 @ 11:07 am
Gram Parsons?
With so many other artists waiting in line…nope.
Tanya Tucker, The Judds, Marty Stuart, Keith Whitley & sooner or later (as a dark horse) Pam Tillis or Patty Loveless.
Mr.RecordMan
October 5, 2019 @ 4:36 pm
Agree that Gram Parsons will not be inducted anytime soon, but I feel he should be. Enormously influential. Nashville, however, metes out punishment to artists who eschew the world view that Nashville is the center of the universe. Witness the late, late, late inductions of Buck Owens, Merle Haggard, and Wille Nelson, all stratospherically successful and influential artists, but artists who found success outside the Nashville echo chamber and who were fairly vocal about their opinions of Nashville.
Will James
October 6, 2019 @ 5:22 pm
http://GramParsonsPetition.com
jessie with the long hair
October 12, 2019 @ 1:13 pm
Chris Hillman as important as Gram.
JG
October 5, 2019 @ 11:08 am
Agree on almost all of these. It’s an outrage that Hank Williams Jr, isn’t in the Hall of Fame and that needs to be rectified ASAP. And they need to elect the Maddox Brothers and Rose soon, while Don Maddox is around to see it.
The one selection I disagree on is Keith Whitley. He didn’t have a prolific career. I understand it was tragically cut short, but you can’t elect people based on potential that they may or may not have lived up to. But everyone else in this article should get in and some (Hank, Marty Stuart, etc) should already be in there and are not.
Scotty J
October 5, 2019 @ 12:21 pm
Keith Whitley is an interesting case. I love the guy’s music but you are correct that his career was short and you can’t go on potential because nobody can possible know what would have happened.
But the best most relevant argument for his inclusion would be Patsy Cline. Just look at her career and it’s not even remotely close to HOF worthy but she got in and very quickly. I don’t know if some of it was a sympathy thing because her death was through no fault of her own and with Whitley it’s sad but it can viewed as self destruction.
Tough call for me but I think I would put him in but there are many living artists that should get the honor first in my opinion.
JG
October 5, 2019 @ 1:04 pm
That’s a VERY interesting comparison. I’m going have to look into Patsy Cline’s career a bit more; just off the top of my head I would say that some of her songs (like “Crazy”) have become supremely iconic, more so than Whitley’s. And you are correct that his death seems self-destructive. But definitely some food for thought.
Robert's Country Blog
October 5, 2019 @ 1:35 pm
Patsy Cline’s Greatest Hits was the first album by a female country artist to go double platinum, and the album went on to sell over ten million copies. Here’s a list of the fifteen top selling country albums of all time (2018 article) http://www.nashcountrydaily.com/2018/03/14/top-15-best-selling-country-albums-of-all-time-according-to-the-riaa/
Scotty J
October 5, 2019 @ 1:47 pm
Yeah, I’m not knocking Patsy Cline but I do think that her life and how it ended greatly added to her legend. She was inducted into the HOF in 1973 as the first woman ahead of Kitty Wells and others.
Would we think of her the same way if she had just packed it all in and quit the business to run a diner in Arkansas or some place the day before that flight?
Maybe, but sometimes an artists story elevates their actual career and I think she is an example.
Scotty J
October 5, 2019 @ 1:52 pm
Also since we are talking about the induction point how many of those albums were sold after 1973?
Most I would bet.
Again I think she should be in the HOF but it’s not as cut and dry to me as it seemed to be.
Mr.RecordMan
October 5, 2019 @ 4:44 pm
If it comes down to record sales, we are gonna have to kick out about all of the CMHOF inductees to make room for the popular ones. Screw Hank Williams – he didn’t sell nearly as many records as Brooks & Dunn!
Robert's Country Blog
October 5, 2019 @ 7:12 pm
Rot in hell, “Mr Record Man.”
Music Lover
October 6, 2019 @ 1:41 am
Come on. “Mr Record Man” was using sarcasm to make a point, that it cannot be only about record sales or radio play. I feel induction should be more about lasting influence. One iconic song can establish that, and Keith Whitley had at least a dozen. Hank Sr. also had a relatively short career as a headliner, but his lasting influence, both as an artist, and as a father, are undeniable.
Don’t know if he is, but the one person who should be in CMHOF and every entertainment HOF, based on that criteria, is Thomas Edison. Think about that.
Dennis Schut
October 6, 2019 @ 11:50 pm
Patsy Cline was an excellent singer, but singing Country Music??? I am not sure. She made real country Music before she cut her hits. If the tragic accident would not have happened, she would probably have gone even more into popular – commercial – music, certainly not more Country. Keith was Country all the way and tried to bring what they called “Country” that time back to real country with a heart and feeling, much less commerce. He would certainly have stayed in Country Music and never gone pop, strayed away like Patsy Cline. She was a fabulous singer with an amazing control over her voice – just as Keith had – but Country,, yes, only during her 4-star period but even then she waved at pop. Great performers I really missed were Cowboy Copas and Hawkshaw Hawkins both with a long career in real Country Music and of course also the great Johnny Horton!!! Really crazy that Johnny Horton was not featured! He should be in the HoF and would deserve that much more than some of the other recent inductions I believe!
Jim Beaver
February 26, 2020 @ 5:46 pm
Record sales are the absolute worst indicator of greatness in country music. Most of the records on that list came after 1988 except for Cline and Rogers. That’s like saying there was no good country music until the modern era.
I take a different stance. I say none of the 15 records on that list are real country. It is all either stylized line dance music or Nashville wall-of-sound stuff. None of it can hold a candle to Uncle Dave Macon, The Blue Sky Boys, The Stanley Brothers, or Hank Williams Sr. for representing country music.
Trigger
October 5, 2019 @ 1:30 pm
Jim Reeves is another good case. Most of his career happened after he was dead. And he’s in.
dukeroberts
October 7, 2019 @ 12:23 pm
He was also inducted quite early.
Chris
October 5, 2019 @ 2:20 pm
I think you might be underestimating what a big deal Patsy was at the time. She was a really charismatic star who redefined what a female country artist could be and was clearly on the cusp of even bigger things when she died. She also had a voice for the ages (as did Keith Whitley) and her appeal arguably transcends country in a way only a few other artists do (Cash, Dolly, Willie) – you don’t have to be a country fan to know Crazy or Walkin’ After Midnight.
Really, I think if Patsy doesn’t deserve to be in the hall, does Buddy Holly belong in the rock and roll hall?
Scotty J
October 5, 2019 @ 2:29 pm
Ok, once again I didn’t say she shouldn’t be in the HOF but her resume is not that long that’s all I was saying just like Keith Whitley.
And you say she ‘was clearly on the cusp of even bigger things’ but that is just conjecture because we don’t know that just like we don’t know if Keith Whitley was destined to have a Strait like career or maybe he would have faded away for any of a million reasons.
Robert's Country Blog
October 5, 2019 @ 3:31 pm
No argument here. I just happened to visit the Patsy Cline Museum in Nashville last month, so her information was fresh on my mind.
Elfrance1
October 6, 2019 @ 7:05 am
I think you really need to research Keith Whitley’s career in country and bluegrass
Luckyoldsun
October 5, 2019 @ 9:25 pm
“Patsy Cline…. not even remotely close to HOF worthy.”?
That’s not even remotely close to common sense.
Scotty J
October 6, 2019 @ 8:57 am
Hey, way to take my quote out of context.
I said ‘just look at her career and it’s not even remotely close to HOF worthy.’
She died in March 1963 and had four more posthumous singles. At that point for her career 13 charting country hits of which 8 went top ten and two went #1 (not ‘Crazy’ by the way it was #2).
My point was that because of her death her career didn’t look all that spectacular and just on numbers there are dozens of others that had more impressive careers. But on impact there are not many that would rise above her and I never said she shouldn’t be in the HOF.
And finally the original comment that you misrepresented was used as a comparison to Keith Whitley and his Hall worthiness.
Ben Sharav
October 6, 2019 @ 10:53 am
I like Keith Whitley, but he’s not at Patsy Cline’s level as a major artist. To be fair, that’s partly due to Patsy Cline’s music crossing over to pop–and some country fans may discount that– but nonetheless, her music–her recordings of “Crazy” and “I Fall to Pieces,” alone–and her persona are iconic. She was a concert headliner–not easy for a woman in country music–when she died. She clearly merited induction in the H-o-F. [I don’t know if the H-o-F makes any attempt to track these things, but I’d be willing to bet that Patsy Cline’s plaque is one of the most viewed in the H-o-F, in terms of foot traffic and visitors crowding around it and photographing it.
Whitley was a great vocalist with a lot of potential to reach great heights, but he’s just not quite there.
A male singer with an early death/shortened career who I would put in the H-o-F–based on his iconic recordings–is Johnny Horton.
Sam Cody
October 5, 2019 @ 1:25 pm
Agreed. I spent a big chunk of my life on the verge of getting somewhere. Success an inch away but had a shot of whiskey in each hand, so couldn’t grab it… not my fault I wasn’t born with three hands… poor design… so please – put me in the HOF for all the great music I might have gotten out there.
jimincincy
October 5, 2019 @ 11:30 pm
People always fail to mention Keith’s many years in bluegrass with Ralph Stanley and J.D. Crowe. Some of the best bluegrass vocals ever recorded. Lets just ignore Janis Joplin, Hendrix, Cobian, Duane Allman, Hank Sr.,Sam Cooke,etc… due to their self destructive behavior? They did it to themselves right? In thirty years, Keith music will still stand the test of time and he will be still a major influence for traditional country music singers. Keith was a once in a lifetime talent. I don’t ever remember Keith asking to be put in HOF? If you speak to him again, tell him we miss him greatly.
Rusty
October 6, 2019 @ 5:19 am
Yes.
Elfrance1
October 6, 2019 @ 7:08 am
Well said👍
Rusty
October 6, 2019 @ 5:17 am
He may have had a short solo career but he was involved in bluegrass and country for many many years before he went solo.
Elfrance1
October 6, 2019 @ 7:01 am
Are you kidding about Keith Whitley? Keith still influences artists of today and not to mention his career with Ralph Stanley and the Clinch Mountain Boys and JD Crowe and the New South. Yes his career was cut short but his legacy will stand the test of time and is just as big now as it was 30 years ago
Dennis Schut
October 6, 2019 @ 11:37 pm
Keith Whitley DID have a long career, starting out at a very early age with Ralph Stanley and played and starred in various other bands until his solo career, He influenced more country artists of his and later generation than most others did and compared of some HoF elects, Keith should have been there much earlier…
Christine Hodge
October 5, 2019 @ 11:10 am
Why wasn’t Skeeter Davis given more recognition in the series and as a Hall of Famer?
She gets little recognition but if you research her accomplishments, you see just how much she’s done for country music.
Sara Ross
October 5, 2019 @ 12:06 pm
Wynonna was the one who really sang. All Naomi did was walk across the stage swinging her skirt like a 16 year old flirting with a boy. Is George Strait in the HOF? I hope so. Garth is more of an entertainer than a country singer. Same with Carrie. She hasn’t sung country in years and seems more focused on hair and fashion.
Aaron
October 5, 2019 @ 12:19 pm
George and Garth are both in the hall of fame.
Leo Walter
October 5, 2019 @ 6:15 pm
Where did you park your broom ?
Music Lover
October 6, 2019 @ 1:56 am
Wynonna is the voice, but Naomi was harmony that makes you still listen today.
Aaron
October 5, 2019 @ 12:27 pm
I am game for hall of fame discussion at any time. I always change my opinions around, but I think next year should either be Maddox Brothers & Rose/The Judds or Hank Jr./Keith Whitley. So many choices to go with (so hopefully no more out-of-left-field choices like Ray Stevens).
Scotty J
October 5, 2019 @ 12:42 pm
The problem is what category are Tanya Tucker and Hank Jr. in? They both started more than 45 years ago but would probably be seen as modern. But if they call one or both veteran then they are competing with the Maddoxs I guess as strange as that seems.
The Ray Stevens and to a lesser degree Charlie Daniels inductions are pretty ridiculous when you look at who they made it in ahead of.
And Trigger can correct me if I’m wrong but I think this is the songwriter year in the rotation and I’m not sure who that would be.
Chris
October 5, 2019 @ 1:07 pm
I agree with all the people you mentioned, but Johnny Paycheck also belongs in there. Yeah, yeah, he was a bad boy, but I don’t think there’s any reason to keep him out of the hall. Lynn Anderson should be in there too.
Tom
October 9, 2019 @ 11:21 am
I love Johnny Paycheck, but to be perfectly honest he was a lifelong underachiever who charted exactly one #1 hit and wasn’t an innovator in any way. I’ve just never seen him as a serious Hall of Fame contender.
Quite frankly, based on career merits, a better case for the Hall could probably be made for Billy “Crash” Craddock or Ronnie McDowell than for Paycheck.
chris arrington
October 5, 2019 @ 1:16 pm
I believe the Hall is still punishing Hank Jr. for making them look like clowns……….and doing things his way.
Richie
October 5, 2019 @ 1:18 pm
Trigger,
The Country Music Hall of Fame changed it’s criteria for the Veterans Era category several years ago from 45 years after they first achieved national prominence to 40 years after they first achieved national prominence, so instead of acts becoming eligible for the Veterans Era category 45 years after they first achieved national prominence, they now become eligible for the Veterans Era category 40 years after they first achieved national prominence.
What do you think?.
Trigger
October 5, 2019 @ 1:34 pm
I think that by making artists eligible for the Veterans category five years earlier just further gluts the Veterans era. Everything seems to be working as it should in the Modern Era. That’s how I’ve been able to predict the Modern Era inductee pretty much right on the nose 5 of the last 6 years. But the Veterans Era seems to be whomever can lobby the CMA’s secret committee the hardest. No offense to Ray Stevens, but it is impossible to justify his induction over Hank Jr., Jerry Lee Lewis, The Maddox Brothers & Rose, and a dozen others.
Chris
October 5, 2019 @ 1:43 pm
Time to induct a load of people at once in the veterans category?
Trigger
October 5, 2019 @ 6:04 pm
If they put The Maddox Brothers & Rose and Jerry Lee Lewis in, this would clear the backlog of artists on death’s door who may not get in while they’re still around. If they put Hank Jr. in, that would clear out the most gross oversight. After that, do your one per year. I don’t think there’s anything wrong with that system, unless you induct Ray Stevens and push everyone else a year back. Clear the backlog and start over.
Ginger
October 8, 2019 @ 2:18 pm
I agree with you 100! The CMA needs to do a mass induction like they did in 2001 again.
John Mullinix
October 5, 2019 @ 1:58 pm
The Stanley Brothers….Ralph and his brother Carter should be in the Country Music Hall of fame. They were in the early days of Bluegrass and had a sound that only brothers could produce. Ralph had the most lonesome mountain sound in his voice that has never been matched. Carter not only had perfect brother harmony but wrote some of the greatest bluegrass songs ever recorded and they’re still popular today. I’m a small market disc jockey and have been for over 40 years and still play the s
Stanley Brothers on my Bluegrass show! Country Music Hall of Fame….. it’s time for The Stanley Brothers!
Vivian Hopkins
October 7, 2019 @ 8:43 pm
Thank you John!! I’ve been a long time fan of Ralph and Carter Stanley. My dad performed with them in the early years of live radio. Their music has been and still remains to be, an inspiration for many in the music industry even today. I’ll never understand why they’re not in the HOF!! They have been overlooked way too long!!
Chris
October 5, 2019 @ 2:34 pm
Don Rich.
You can pretty much draw a straight line from every modern country guitarist back to him.
Scotty J
October 5, 2019 @ 2:44 pm
This.
I’ve been saying this for years. Buck Owens wouldn’t have been what he was without Don Rich and never was the same after his death. Seeing them singing together is amazing.
But I believe this is the songwriter year coming up so it won’t be happening for a while.
Leo Walter
October 5, 2019 @ 6:18 pm
Actually, the straight line for country guitar players today goes directly to James Burton. And that is from a big fan of Don’s.
Dode Daddy
October 6, 2019 @ 8:40 am
And from James Burton back to Roy Nichols who played guitar for Maddox Brothers and Rose at 16 years old and later for 20+ years with The Strangers. Just another reason to get Maddox Brothers and Rose in the HOF.
Warren Quilliams
October 5, 2019 @ 2:43 pm
I didn’t see any mention of Donna Fargo and she had quite a few hits in the 1970’s including some #1’s. I think she should be in the Country Music Hall of Fame also. I know that her songs are being sung at karaoke all over the U.S. of A.
Luckyoldsun
October 7, 2019 @ 8:02 pm
Donna Fargo was a fine artist in her era, but she did not quite have the impact or longevity to merit induction in the H-o-F–under its present, restrictive standards.
Bacot
October 5, 2019 @ 3:14 pm
This Wednesday night In the Newberry South Carolina Opera House I smiled, cheered, laughed, sat completely spellbound and, even at one point, was brought, unexpectedly, to tears. After the incredible performance, the leader of this amazing band strode into the lobby, wearing a beautiful black Western outfit and scarf, to greet his fans and sign autographs. I was lucky enough to stand in front of this Country music legend, feel intensity of his gaze, and receive a warm, powerful handshake. His name is Marty Stuart.
Kevin Smith
October 5, 2019 @ 3:21 pm
JR!
1.The Pressure is on
2. Whiskey Bent and Hell Bound
3. Family Tradition
4. Rowdy
5. The New South
6. Major Moves
7. Hank Jr and Friends
8. Old Habits
9. Strong Stuff
10. High Notes
11. Five O
12. Montana Cafe
13. Man of Steel
That’s just 13 essential Bocephus albums to start. The songs and the influence speak for themselves. PUT BOCEPHUS IN!!!
Trigger
October 5, 2019 @ 3:37 pm
Yeah, but do you REALLY think that can compete with …
1. Ahab The Arab
2. Guitarzan
3. The Streak
4. Shriner’s Convention
5. Mississippi Squirrel Revival
6. Surfin’ U.S.S.R.
????
Kevin Smith
October 5, 2019 @ 3:44 pm
I love it when your sarcastic Trig, you sly dog! Good one!
Scotty J
October 5, 2019 @ 3:46 pm
In some ways what bothers me the most is the anonymous lack of accountability. Even with something like the baseball HOF various writers almost always write about why they did or did not vote for somebody but with the Country HOF the list just appears one as if from on high and that’s it.
Even if I disagreed I could at least respect somebody coming out and defending their choices.
In Ray Stevens defense his version of ‘Misty’ is pretty good. Not HOF good but still..
Cody
October 6, 2019 @ 1:47 pm
Good point – I think of Peter King, a NFL HOF voter who always well disects his votes in his column.
Michelle
October 5, 2019 @ 6:30 pm
In Ray’s defense, he did more than silly songs. But I get your point.
GregGreen
October 6, 2019 @ 3:19 pm
Sadly he seems to remembered only for the silly ones.
Tom
October 9, 2019 @ 12:22 pm
When you look at his entire career, not only as a comedian and recording artist but as a writer, musician, executive, TV host, and international ambassador for country music, it’s hard to say he doesn’t belong. His overall influence on the industry has probably had a much greater impact than that of many artists who nobody would deny belong in the Hall of Fame.
The problem is that his induction as an artist pushed back the induction of other candidates who are far more deserving as recording artists.
Rather than shoving a square peg into a round hole as the CMA did with Stevens’s induction, they really need to consider a “jack of all trades” category to be included maybe every five years so that those folks can rightly be enshrined without impeding the inductions of those who were stronger in one specific category.
Di Harris
October 5, 2019 @ 7:43 pm
Oh man, THAT is funny 😊
Love it
Rick
October 5, 2019 @ 4:02 pm
Hank Jr is deserving as is Maddox Brothers & Rose. They were big reasons country music survived in different time areas. People now get elected based on record sales and popularity NOT what they did or have done for the genre.
GitOffMyHorse
October 5, 2019 @ 4:09 pm
Considering how strong their presence was in the performing and business side of country music from the 1950s into the early 80s, the omission of the Wilburn Brothers also calls into question the legitimacy of the HOF.
wayne
October 5, 2019 @ 5:25 pm
Can’t argue with any of these Trig.
Squonk
October 5, 2019 @ 6:09 pm
HOF..???
1. Wild Carter/Montana Slim…..The original Singing Ranger.
2. Don Rich…we’re all still playing his licks.
3. Don Gibson…one of the best songwriters into the genre.
Gram??…only the most important outsider to single handedly bring an entire new generation to Country Music…and Nashville still ashamed to admit it.
Steve
October 6, 2019 @ 8:42 am
Don Gibson is already in the HOF.
Trigger
October 6, 2019 @ 9:28 am
…and wasn’t even mentioned in the Ken Burns film.
Scotty J
October 6, 2019 @ 10:12 am
Despite one of the episodes being titled after a song he wrote (I Can’t Stop Loving You).
Scotty J
October 6, 2019 @ 10:17 am
Also wrote ‘Sweet Dreams’ made famous by Patsy Cline and the name of her biopic starring Jessica Lange.
Way underappreciated songwriter/artist.
Squonk
October 6, 2019 @ 11:02 am
My mistake, we never hear his music anymore
Tom R.
October 11, 2019 @ 12:42 pm
Montana Slim is a major example of someone who is a superstar in the country field outside of the US (Canada, in his case) but totally ignored in this country. The CMA is always pushing to make country music international but totally ignores the acts who are “foreigners” and doing a great job of making the music popular in their native countries. They don’t really do a thing to get them noticed in the states.
Sonny Dave
October 5, 2019 @ 6:13 pm
Stonewall Jackson Cal Smith, Hank Locklin,Johnny Bush,, Slim Whitman, Roy Drusky,Del Reeves, Red Sovine,Dave Dudley,Dick Curless, Melba Montgomery,”Pretty Miss Norma Jean”, Skeeter Davis, Leona Williams, Bonnie Owens,Wanda Jackson, Jan Howard. All classic country singers and entertainers who deserve to be in the CMHOF.
Tom R.
October 11, 2019 @ 12:37 pm
All terrific choices (and it’s an especially an outrage that Stonewall, Locklin, Skeeter, and Wanda are not in the HOF yet) but the sad fact is probably even those who nominate the HOF inductees probably have little knowledge of most of these acts, their music, or their history.
Sonny Dave
October 12, 2019 @ 1:23 pm
I Left out a few names. Carl Belew, Carl Butler, Charlie Walker and The Wilburn Bros. also deserve to be in the CMHOF. In show business there are people who are more talented than some who make it to the top. IMO, a female singer, name Jamey Ryan was the finest of all female singers. For whatever reason she never became a star. She had a short career from 1966-1972. She is not the only one. There are others male and female with great talent that never achieved success. I guess that’s “Show Biz”.
Ms. Emme
October 5, 2019 @ 6:29 pm
I agree with your analysis of the with the Hall of Fame and how they choose who will be inducted. I would like to see the Maddox Brothers and Rose inducted next because their inclusion is an oversight that can easily be corrected on the next ballot. The Hall of Fame should consider changing the number of inductees from 1 to 2 for each of the 3 categories. Understandably, the Hall of Fame wants to be control the selection of its members, but they must balance that with the high number of candidates who meet their criteria and may have been over looked for years. I would love to see Hazel Smith and the Highway Men included in the next group of inductees, but of course, there are many other deserving acts who have waited a long time for their chance to be inducted.
Marc Gibo
October 5, 2019 @ 8:04 pm
I thought Randy Travis should have been mentioned in the later segments. He has some good songs! Really good series.
Steve Watson
October 5, 2019 @ 11:02 pm
GENE WATSON ??????
Kenneth Medders
October 5, 2019 @ 11:07 pm
Gene watson,how many hits has the man had.,nobody in country has been any truer to his roots and is still,making the same great music today..
Ginger
October 6, 2019 @ 12:30 am
The Stanley Brothers started out together in 1946 & performed together until Carter’s passing in December 1966. Ralph carried their music on until he passed in June 2016. Bill Monroe kept them off the Opry. They brought roots music to the world. Artists like Ricky Skaggs, Keith Whitley, Patty Loveless, Emmylou Harris & Vince Gill, learned from them. Carter Stanley’s lead singing & songwriting talents are still talked about. It’s years past time when they should have been inducted. Country artists to this day still sing & record their songs. ‘O’ Brother, Where Art Thou?’ brought their songs back to life (and put mountain music in the forefront selling over 8 million copies) & created a stir in Nashville the likes of which we may never see again. It was Dr. Ralph Stanley’s last wish that he & his brother, Carter, be inducted into CMHOF together, just like they started out. They earned their place in the Veteran’s Era inside the Country Music Hall of Fame.
Benny Bryant
October 6, 2019 @ 7:21 pm
I totally agree with you, Ginger!! The Stanley wrote and recorded some of the best music that has ever been done. It is beyond me as to why they aren’t in the Hall of Fame. I think they definitely paid their dues so therefore I think they should have been inducted years ago!!!
Paul J Clampitt
October 6, 2019 @ 12:32 am
Merle Travis Eddie Rabbit Spade Cooley Johnny Horton Johnny Paycheck. Plus many others who contributed to Country Music. The list could go on forever. Maybe in another documentary.
Kevin Smith
October 6, 2019 @ 4:05 pm
You know, Spade was one of the true greats of western swing….but….the whole psycho wife killing thing will keep him out forever.
Sven
October 6, 2019 @ 3:03 am
Don Maddox is one of my favorites but he is not the last living link to country musics historic past. I have been in contact with many of the last “hillbilly singers”. The oldest that i know is Mervin Shiner, he is 98 years old and had several country hits in the 1940s and early 1950s.
Trigger
October 6, 2019 @ 9:40 am
Mervin is an interesting name and I’ll have to look deeper into him. Didn’t know he was still alive. Comparing resumes, it appears that the Maddox Brothers & Rose were playing music professionally about five years before Merv, but he’s definitely should be mentioned among the oldest living performers. Thanks for the heads up.
CountryKnight
May 2, 2023 @ 8:14 am
Where is Mervin living now?
Joe G
October 6, 2019 @ 5:19 am
I really enjoyed the documentary by Ken Burns. It showed the back life of many of artist we loved to listen to. I had no Idea that a lot of the really great artists are not in the CMHOF
Like Johnny Horton, Stonewall Jackson, Boxcar Willie, and Marty Stuart who is a true promoter of country music, his knowledge of the music is outstanding. I guess that’s why I don’t listen to the new country music any more it’s just noise on the radio.
Dave
October 6, 2019 @ 5:37 am
The Wilburn Brothers
Wocowboy
October 6, 2019 @ 6:20 am
Hazel Smith’s comments were one of the true delights of the “Country Music” series. I’ll bet she was a fun person to be around, never shy with her thoughts and cutting through all the hype, fluff, and hot air hat is associated with famous people. I wish there were more of her comments as well.
Mike Honcho
October 6, 2019 @ 6:33 am
Did you purposely follow the Burns documentary with the solid start and continual fall to the end? And, the chef d’oeuvre of ignoring bedrock iconic country music performers for Marty and Gram. Bravo! Bonus points for getting JR’s daughter a mention.
Harpo
October 6, 2019 @ 7:15 am
Gene Watson, and Stonewall Jackson, please.
Shane
October 6, 2019 @ 7:48 am
Hank Jr. is atrocious.
Mike Honcho
October 6, 2019 @ 9:24 am
Shut yo mouth.
Kevin Lynch
October 6, 2019 @ 10:25 am
As usual, in these “who belongs” discussions, I have reservations about a couple of your personal picks. But that’s the nature of the game.
I’ve been a professional sideman in country, bluegrass, and Americana (beginning in 1978). I’ve toured the world with some amazing artists, had memorable sessions, sat on countless boards (including Hall of Fame entities), and been involved in various other music related activities.
My 2-cents: After decades of observation/experience I have concluded that contributions must be vast, innovative, time-tested, and influential at the very least before becoming a Hall Of Fame inductee. Simply being a young performer, historian, collector of memorabilia, selling millions of songs/albums… these things are secondary in The Big Picture of the HOF experience.
All in all, it’s a tough call. What I have come to terms with, and hundreds of my colleagues believe, is that what is not a ‘tough call’ is inducting the most influential and innovative Pioneers in any given genre. In this category, Country Music Hall of Fame has failed miserably. At best, this organization has allowed the nomination process to lean toward a popular vote rather than any historic significance in far too many cases since the 1990’s.
The list of pioneering, innovative artists and trades-persons who have historically contributed to, or positively altered, Country music since at least the 1930’s is a relatively long list. And that is the shame of all this… that popularity wins over history in many cases of modern day HOF ballots. Several factors enter into that equation; new generations of voters within the industry with a shallow knowledge in Country music history being a major issue… and a real issue that does not seem to be waning any time soon.
All this makes me sad; sad for the great people who have been shunned, overlooked, or simply forgotten. Many of whom befriended myself and my mother during my formative years on the circuit. I am also sad for their families. I am personally not into awards… but I am passionately dedicated to preserving our American Music history — and the CMHOF is part of that legacy.
Future fans and especially future generations of musicians deserve to know — need to know — who contributed to the roots, literally the foundation of which the music they love was built upon.
Thank you for this opportunity.
Trigger
October 6, 2019 @ 12:54 pm
Always appreciate your insight and opinions Kevin.
Luckyoldsun
October 8, 2019 @ 7:38 pm
“Failed miserably”?
That’s pretty silly.
On the whole, they’ve inducted the most important artists–and personalities–in country music–with a few exceptions, here and there.
If we were to replace the roster of 139 inductees with a roster of the same size composed by Kevin Lynch, I doubt many visitors would recognize an improvement.
Kevin Lynch
October 9, 2019 @ 1:43 am
None of that makes reasonable sense.
Perhaps you might revisit your claim, “they’ve inducted the most important artists–and personalities–in country music–with a few exceptions, here and there…” after a thorough reading of the better music history books available?
Davis
October 9, 2019 @ 5:39 pm
I beg to differ, Kevin. So many worthy artists have been overlooked. It would appear that most of the voting is of a political nature. It seems to me to be one big popularity contest.
Kevin Lynch
October 6, 2019 @ 10:27 am
Sorry for my second intrusion here.. but I wanted to add something I believe Ken omitted from his documentary series. That is, Rose Maddox was also the first woman to record a Bluegrass music album. I believe it was in 1963 and included Bill Monroe, among other Bluegrass musicians at the time.
Traudel McKinney
October 6, 2019 @ 11:53 am
Gene Watson was not mentioned at all in the TV series. Why?
He should also be in the Country Music Hall of Fame
I understand that one has to be a member in order to be nominated ?? Seems like unfair practice to ne
Mr.RecordMan
October 12, 2019 @ 3:38 pm
Even HOF inductees such as Floyd Tillman (class of 84) were not mentioned in the Burns program, so it should not surprise that many, many non-inductees were not mentioned.
Randy
October 6, 2019 @ 1:24 pm
Keith Whitley and Marty Stewart should get in based on what they did in Bluegrass. Bluegrass is a genre of Country music! That’s all Bill Monroe did!
Luckyoldsun
October 9, 2019 @ 8:15 pm
@ randy–
That’s a stretch. Whitley and Stewart came into their own when they moved into commercial country. I don’t think either of them were considered stars on the bluegrass circuit.
Cody
October 6, 2019 @ 1:43 pm
Am I crazy for thinking Mickey Raphael should go in under the rotating musician category?
tt-31
October 6, 2019 @ 2:19 pm
David Allan Coe anyone?!?!?!?!?!?!?
Blake
October 8, 2019 @ 8:46 am
It will never happen… an absolutely amazing artist with too much “baggage”. Don’t get me wrong though, DAC is a personal favorite and Whole heartedly love his music… I just don’t see it happening, sadly.
Kevin Smith
October 9, 2019 @ 9:40 am
“You judge a boy by his friends…well all of mine are trash, they say you find your own level..well I’m a snake in the grass…”
Coe
FARM AID and friends
October 6, 2019 @ 2:24 pm
How about Bob Dylan/Zimmerman HOF, was well featured on the documentary, who knows why..how about bruce Springsteen ..
But honestly Neil young..in my day Neil crossed alot of songs in my mind,,more than zimmerman.Truly.
Shirley sheppard
October 6, 2019 @ 3:29 pm
The Stanley Brothers, Carter and Ralph, were pioneers in bluegrass, and paved the way for so many aspirants. The unequaled lead singing of Carter, and blended harmony with brother Ralph, is still challenged today. They are way overdue!
Dan
October 6, 2019 @ 3:46 pm
With the outsized influence the Stanley Brothers have had on so many country alone, they should he in the Country Music Hall of Fame.
Pansy Hardy
October 6, 2019 @ 3:53 pm
I feel that there is no excuse for Ralph and Carter Stanley not being there!
Eddie
October 6, 2019 @ 4:40 pm
The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band should be in the discussion
Tons of radio hits in the 80s
Longevity
Their contributions to country music with the Circle albums
After the backlog is cleared they should be considered
Larry Efaw
October 6, 2019 @ 5:27 pm
The Stanley Brothers .Cant believe there not already in the Country Music Hall Of Fame ..They are way over due ..They gave the music there own feel .and Traveled all over the Country and Foreign Countries. Paid there does..One of the best Brother Pioneers of Bluegrass .Carter Wrote so many Great Songs in Gospel and Song of the Mountain ..When they sang you know cold chills was going to go all over you ..They gave so many there Start in the Music. Like Ricky Scaggs and Keith Whitley .and so many more .Just dont over look them for this year ….They Deserve It .and couldnt be anyone more deserved then Carter and Ralph …
DFT
October 6, 2019 @ 5:41 pm
Marty Stuart was a revelation in the Ken Burns film. I think it was in episode 7 he said, “the first two records I ever owned were Flatt & Scruggs and Johnny Cash, and the only two jobs I ever had were playing in Lester Flatt’s band and playing in Johnny Cash’s band. So that worked out.” Priceless. I couldn’t stop chuckling over that one.
Mr.RecordMan
October 12, 2019 @ 3:46 pm
Marty will end up in the HOF – not only is he an awesome and influential musician, he is the heart and soul of a big-tent view of Country Music. And – he does it all from a very pro-Nashville POV. I say he’s in within 10 years.
Joseph McDonald
October 6, 2019 @ 6:09 pm
What about Stonewall Jackson
King Honky Of Crackershire
October 6, 2019 @ 6:11 pm
I think they should induct every single person who has ever been considered a C(c)ountry singer by anyone anywhere, along with anyone who has ever recorded or performed a song that anyone anywhere would consider C(c)ountry. They should also induct everyone who’s ever told someone else about C(c)ountry music.
Except Gram Parsons. I’d leave him out.
Tac
October 6, 2019 @ 8:42 pm
One thing I got from the Burns documentary is that the lasting influence and importance of an artist is not necssarily measured by awards and record sales which explains the omission of people like the Stanley Bros and Gram Parsons. But ultately, I concluded that there is one person not mentioned here who should be elevated above all others. That is Maybelle Carter. She is already on the HOF as part of the Carter Family, but not giving her separate recognition as an individual is a gross oversight. In the end, no one in the HOF would have had a career were it not for Maybelle and Jimmy.
Luckyoldsun
October 8, 2019 @ 7:44 pm
It’s not a gross oversight at all. Maybelle Carter is amply recognized.
Daniel Wilson
October 6, 2019 @ 9:33 pm
I fully believe Carter and Ralph Stanley should be in the Country Music Hall of Fame! Bill Monroe publicly stated the Carter was the most natural lead singer he knew. So many other country music singers got their start from Ralph and Carter. Is this a “family request” or a select few wanting this to happen, no, it’s the desire of thousands of people who have followed and loved the Stanley sound for many years. Do what’s right and induct the Stanley Brothers into the Country Music Hall of Fame. They are deserving!
Jeff Wall
October 7, 2019 @ 4:30 am
I’d like to second the recommendation for Chet Flippo. He mentored and was incredibly supportive to so so many great journalists.
Pat Fleetwood
October 7, 2019 @ 5:23 am
Nobody has mentioned Vern Gosdin – why?
Shane Simmons
October 7, 2019 @ 9:16 am
Aside from Hank, Jr., Johnny Horton is the biggest omission. His absence is inexcusable. Marty Stuart seems like a good guy and a great ambassador for the music, but having him inducted in the Hall of Fame at this point would be a travesty. He’s only known for who he knows and what he knows, not anything he’s personally done. His actual music is pretty lacking both commercially and aesthetically.
Michelle
October 7, 2019 @ 9:29 am
I love Marty Stuart’s music — aesthetically.
Eddie
October 8, 2019 @ 6:22 pm
Thanks Shane for referring to Johnny Horton.. Greatest ever in my opinion.
Pamela
October 7, 2019 @ 10:21 am
Carter and Ralph Stanley have definitely earned their place of honor in the Country Music Hall of Fame. Carter is said by many to have possessed the best lead voice in Bluegrass history. Carter and Ralph turned their rich mountain stories and traditions into pure Bluegrass music that touched the souls of all who heard it.
Harris
October 7, 2019 @ 10:58 am
The documentary did make me think of something that has vaguely been in my head a while: which is Hank Williams Jr is maybe the most influential artist on modern mainstream county music. And I dont mean that in a good way.
Country Boy Can Survive seems to me to be THE cultural touchstone for most mainstream country singers referencing the past. Hank Jr seems to get name checked more than Hank himself does. His songs seemed to be the driving force into the glorification of being a redneck thats drug down so much of mainstream country.
Personally I like a lot of his music (family tradition and all my rowdy friends have settled down especially) but I really think he has had a profoundly negative influence on what came after him.
CountryKnight
October 12, 2019 @ 1:23 pm
So is it Hank’s fault that the following generations took a caricature view of his songs and misrepresented them?
Gee, that makes sense.
dukeroberts
October 7, 2019 @ 12:30 pm
It has bothered me for over 20 years that Johnny Horton is not in the Country Music Hall of Fame. That should be corrected.
andrew dye
October 7, 2019 @ 2:41 pm
Stanley Brothers are past due to the CMHofF. Such a a basic building blocks for the entire industry.
Amber
October 7, 2019 @ 4:12 pm
I would love to see the Stanley Brothers in the Country Music hall of fame!!
Junior Sisk
October 7, 2019 @ 5:28 pm
The Stanley Brothers should have been in the CMHOF many years ago! Inspired so many real country artist. Please help get them in!
Benny Bryant
October 7, 2019 @ 6:23 pm
Again, my vote would be for Carter and Ralph, the Stanley Brothers. I think their dues were paid even before the passing of Carter!!! They were two brothers who never wavered from the old time mountain (country) music. to me, they were the best at what they did plus helping many others to become better entertainers. I, personally find it a travesty that they aren’t in the Hall of Fame. I had hoped that since the brothers weren’t admitted to the Hall of Fame before Carter’s passing that maybe, at least ,they would be admitted while Ralph was still living. Since that didn’t happen, I think it is high time to right this wrong and finally elect them for this award. I don’t think anyone is more deserving of this award than Carter and Ralph, the Stanley Brothers!!!!
Tammy Carlisle
October 7, 2019 @ 6:47 pm
I think that the Stanley Brothers should be inducted as just that, the STANLEY BROTHERS. Not just Dr. Ralph by himself. I was blessed enough to meet Dr. Ralph in 2016 at the Grand Ole Opry. He told me, in the bluegrass room, that he wanted to be inducted as the Stanley Brothers. He wanted to stand on that stage, while he was alive, & accept the honor for himself & Bro. Carter. He was, to me, tobbed of that chance. Carter Stanley passed at the young age of just 41 in 1966. He is NOT just a footnote in music! If it weren’t for Bro. Carter, there would have been no Stanley Brothers. It was Carter’s idea to start playing music. Ralph wasn’t so sure about it, but went along. They have opened many doors for other entertainers. Not to mention the fact that they are pioneers in bluegrass. Bill Monroe, the Father of Bluegrass said that Carter Stanley was the most natural lead voice he had ever heard. Carter wrote quite a few songs before his passing. They are still being sung & recorded to this day. Yet Carter Stanley has been all but forgotten. Folks, Dr. Ralph didn’t want to be inducted as just Ralph Stanley. He wants to be inducted as the Stanley Brothers. No other way. So please, give them the honor they are long over due, & induct the STANLEY BROTHERS.
Laura Norris
October 7, 2019 @ 8:15 pm
Long overdue, before the glitz & glamour, when a pure sound and love of music – bluegrass, Appalachian pure sound and substance, was given wings with Carter & Ralph Stanley. They paved the way for so many and I don’t understand why they’ve been snubbed, year after year! They weren’t a trend, they were the real deal. Carter Stanley, despite his premature death, wrote & performed his heart out. This should be an induction for both Carter & Ralph Stanley. If this is an honor based on talent, contribution,and to have any meaning – rectify this by honoring those upon whose shoulders the flashy performers stand today. Induct THE STANLEY BROTHERS – CARTER & DR RALPH STANLEY
Bill stanley
October 7, 2019 @ 8:54 pm
My vote would be for the Stanley brothers
John A.
October 7, 2019 @ 11:26 pm
The Stanley Brothers stand out as one of the great bands of all-time that still haven’t been inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame . Carter and Ralph both honorably served their country before they brought their own style of lonesome, mountain music to the public via radio shows, recordings, tv shows (they had their own tv show in Bluefield, WV as early as 1949) and personal appearances. Anyone who has visited the area where the brothers grew up can immediately see where the influence came for many of the great songs Carter Stanley wrote came from. He, along with his brother Ralph, traveled the world bringing their sound to many, many people. In addition to this, Carter played in Bill Monroe’s band, The Blue Grass Boys, for a few months in the early fifties, showing just how versatile his singing and playing had become. Sadly, Carter’s passed in 1966, leaving Ralph to carry on what the two of them had started. It’s time The Stanley Brothers receive this long overdue honor.
Davey
October 7, 2019 @ 11:31 pm
Carter Stanley was one of the finest songwriters who ever lived. His songs are timeless & will live forever. Bill Monroe said that Carter was the most natural lead singer he’d ever heard in his life. Ralph Stanley had that other-worldly haunting tenor. Their harmony is unrivaled to this very day. Carter died in 1966 & Ralph carried their music on. He told people he knew that’s what his brother, Carter, would have wanted. O’ Brother Where Art Thou? brought Stanley Brothers’ music back to life in 2000. I say these 2 men are gone now. They should have happened years ago. Put the Stanley Brothers in the CMHOF. Their dues were paid a long time ago.
Norma Jean
October 7, 2019 @ 11:38 pm
Carter AND Ralph Stanley should be inducted before any more time goes by. It was Dr. Ralph Stanley’s wish to see the Stanley Brothers go in the CMHOF before his death. He told many people this. He was denied that. The Country Music Association should have honored his request. Carter’s family & Ralph’s family have both made it known that they want this. So, I’d like to know what the hold up is. Why have they been snubbed all these years? Do the right thing. My vote is for the Stanley Brothers. Don’t try to split them up. Death is the only thing that did that.
Jennifer
October 7, 2019 @ 11:43 pm
The Stanley Brothers, Carter and Ralph, deserve to be in the CMHOF. They are long overdue. Many that they’ve influenced have gone in ahead of them.
Mary Browning
October 8, 2019 @ 6:09 am
The Stanley Brothers and Ralph
Dave
October 8, 2019 @ 8:38 am
I’m really surprised that Pasty Cline isn’t in there. Maybe it’s just me, but I was under the impression that ‘Walking After Midnight’, ‘I Fall to Pieces’ and ‘Crazy’ are all iconic.
I think Patty Loveless certainly deserves to be in there, and Gene Watson too.
Trigger
October 8, 2019 @ 9:57 am
Patsy Cline is in the Country Music Hall of Fame.
Dave
October 8, 2019 @ 11:35 am
That’s a relief 🙂
Dee
October 8, 2019 @ 11:39 am
Carter and Ralph Stanley, who performed as ‘The Stanley Brothers’, were two brothers from South West Virginia, who inspired the music industry and it’s fans by bringing their superb interpretations of old time mountain music/Appalachian music along with their own masterpieces to the world where, as Bluegrass Music, it came under the ‘umbrella’ of Country Music. Therefore, ‘The Stanley Brothers’ should undeniably be at the forefront of the CMA’s induction list for 2020. The Stanley Brothers undoubtedly paved the way for many of the performers who are currently being considered for the great honour of induction into the CMHF yet, the immense importance of ‘The Stanley Brothers’ for their part in the history of the music – along with their impact upon the music industry and it’ fans – remains unacknowledged.
Dee
October 8, 2019 @ 12:14 pm
Carter and Ralph Stanley, who performed as ‘The Stanley Brothers’, were two brothers from South West Virginia, who made it their life’s work to bring their superb interpretations of old mountain music/Appalachian music – along with their own unique compositions – to the world, where, as Bluegrass it came under the ‘umbrella’ of Country Music. The Stanley Brothers and their music remains popular throughout the world and, undoubtedly, paved the way for many of performers who are currently being considered for induction into the CHMF yet, ‘The Stanley Brothers’ still have not been honoured for the tremendous part and enormous impact their music has made upon the industry, it’s performers, songwriters and, very importantly, it’s fans. Therefore, in 2020, The Stanley Brothers should, undeniably, be at the forefront of the CMA’s induction list.
Michael Cosner
October 8, 2019 @ 12:31 pm
Johnny Paycheck = HOF
Anthony
October 8, 2019 @ 1:29 pm
I’m with you on Keith Whitley, Trigger. He has a very strong — and timelessly produced — catalogue for such a short career, and he’s now been cited as a major influence for multiple generations of male country artists.
Another person who I’m surprised hasn’t been inducted is songwriter Curly Putman. His co-writer Bobby Braddock is in the hall of fame, and Curly co-wrote Braddock’s biggest hits — He Stopped Loving Her Today and D-I-V-O-R-C-E — plus Curly had Green, Green Grass of Home, which he wrote solo. Does anyone have any theories as to why Curly’s been overlooked?
LaNeal Lunsford
October 8, 2019 @ 2:04 pm
Definitely long overdue for The Stanley Brothers! They were an early legacy and early part of the beginning of country music. When a billion dollar movie wins every award imaginable and so does the soundtrack, and when the credits are rolling and you hear the clean, crisp, raw mountain voice of Carter Stanley singing. When you hear Ralph Stanley sing O Death a cappella and it sends spine chilling vibes down your back, then that speaks volumes as to why The Stanley Brothers deserve this.
Nathan
October 8, 2019 @ 2:46 pm
Please consider the Stanley Brothers. Carter was a brilliant writer, and Ralph a brilliant harmony singer. Their music is still played in jam sessions across America today. The Stanley Brothers were as important to early country music as Bill Monroe and Flatt and Scruggs, and they were tremdous influences on many singers. The CMHOF would benefit by having them inducted!
Jarrod Church
October 8, 2019 @ 3:55 pm
My name is Jarrod Church. I’m a 37 year old Dj and banjo player from Haysi, VA. I grew up in Dickenson County, Virginia. I have seen first hand how the Stanley Brothers and later Ralph Stanley have done just as much if not more than others to further the popularity of Country and bluegrass music. They were the first brother duet to follow in Bill Monroe’s footsteps. Monroe is in the Hall. As are Flatt &Scruggs. The injustice needs to be corrected! Vote the Stanley Brothers into the Country Music Hall of Fame!!
Larry Norfleet
October 8, 2019 @ 4:30 pm
It is a complete travesty that The Stanley Brothers are not in the Country Music Hall of Fame. Their music was and remains influential to bluegrass bands across the world! As a bluegrass musician myself that was influenced just as much by the Stanley Brothers than any other, I ask that you please fix the injustice to The Stanley Brothers and induct them into the CMHOF
Ian
October 8, 2019 @ 5:06 pm
Ahh, excuse me. Why no Stanley brothers? Are you not missing the obvious?
Jill E.
October 8, 2019 @ 5:57 pm
The Stanley Brothers should be in the Country Music Hall of Fame.
Jane
October 8, 2019 @ 11:11 pm
The Stanley Brothers are both American originals. They didn’t move from their beloved home in the hills of southwest Virginia to Nashville, TN, like everybody else. Don’t hold that against them, CMA. They had balls. Still, they persevered to give us some of the most beautiful, prolific & timeless songs in the history of bluegrass/ole-timey country music that you’re ever going to hear. They paid their dues. They’ve influenced countless country singers/songwriters and entertainers & still do today. Put them in the Country Music Hall of Fame. Carter and Ralph deserve it.
Larry Douglas
October 9, 2019 @ 12:14 am
The Hall of Fame can’t be considered complete until the Stanley Brothers are included.
Kevbro
October 9, 2019 @ 4:02 am
You have to remember that the Hall of Fame and the museum are seperate entities. The HoF is run by CMA, whose purpose is to promote country music commercially. The Museum’s mission is to preserve the heritage. Often you see many exhibits of artists who deserve to be in the HoF but aren’t because CMA looks at artist that will more likely promote the industry.
Gary Dale Pack
October 9, 2019 @ 6:20 am
I believe it’s time to elect The Stanley Brothers into The Country Music Hall of Fame , this should have already happened years ago , what are they waiting on . Also , I believe it’s time to elect Keith Whitley as well !!!
Evelyn Sewers
October 9, 2019 @ 8:17 pm
Hi!
When I listen to the Bluegrass Gospel Hour, when they play The Stanley Brothers I know them right away.
I think they should be put in the HOF.
Alan Dill
October 10, 2019 @ 2:29 pm
JOHHNY HORTON!!!
Carol Wells
October 11, 2019 @ 11:14 am
The Stanley Brothers. Ralph and Carter certainly deserve being in the Hall of Fame. They are our forefathers in Bluegrass Music ! Bluegrass Music would not be what it is today without The Stanley Brothers ! Thank you very much 🎶❤️🎶
Tom R.
October 11, 2019 @ 12:33 pm
Most of your choices are good, though Marty Stuart, much as I admire him, has only had modest commercial success, he is invaluable though as about the only non-senior citizen country star remotely interested in the history of country music (seriously interested in his case), I’d put him in more as a scholar or historian over a musician (and he really needs to be writing books about country music history and it’s classic acts).
Hazel Smith I have to completely disagree with. Not meaning to talk ill of the dead (though that never stopped her, re her comments that Tammy Wynette was overrated on the CMT greatest women poll program in Country Music mag) but she was an employee of the main stars she heralded, you might as well put Colonel Parker or some other managers in. Yes, she wrote for Country Music but so many others did and did it better; Hazel’s column was a mess of syrup for her favorites (often drooling over the latest pinup country boy) but not much in the way of good reporting or real news and she was occasionally not very nice to some of the women in the industry in her writing (Randy Travis’ ex-wife/manager Lib Hatcher being an apparent pet hate of hers) . There are several great country journalists like Charles K. Wolfe and Bill C. Malone who deserve to be considered for the HOF, however
jessie with the long hair
October 12, 2019 @ 1:26 pm
Is Dwight Yoakam in the HOF? If not, he should go in before Marty Stuart or Keith Whitley.
Trigger
October 12, 2019 @ 1:29 pm
He is not. I think he will be a contender in the Modern category in the next few years, but a few more names need to tick off first. His issue is going to be that he’s a West Coast guy, and the perspective of the Hall of Fame is EXTREMELY Nashville-centric.
Tetsuya Kurata
October 12, 2019 @ 3:05 pm
Stanley Brother deserve to be inducted to Hall of Fame. Bluegrass music cannot be completed without their names. They have influenced many young Japanese people to start playing and singing bluegrass.
Ronnie harrrison
October 12, 2019 @ 6:09 pm
Jerry lee lewis should definitely be in the country music hall of fame,why isn’t he? He should have been put in a long time ago.What about Mel Street any mel street fans out there?
Mr.RecordMan
October 12, 2019 @ 8:17 pm
Wow – sounds like people are largely in agreement that the Stanleys should be in the CMHOF. I hope this happens soon (CMHOF, are you listening?). A related question for the group – I think I am correct that Reno and Smiley are not in the CMHOF, but am I also correct that they were not mentioned in the Burns pgm and that no one in this group has mentioned them? Talk about an influential and innovative bluegrass band that has sadly – and undeservedly – been forgotten. Marty Stuart hasn’t forgotten them, tho – he performed “Country Boy Rock and Roll” during his tour last year with the Byrds (the Sweetheart of the Rodeo 50th anniversary tour). Check ’em out!
Bob
October 14, 2019 @ 9:05 pm
I’m not even believing that the Stanley Brothers aren’t already in the CMHOF! Are you kidding me? That’s just not right.
Richie
October 20, 2019 @ 6:15 pm
Trigger,
Regarding the Hall of Fame and the Modern category: I really think that it’s going to be The Judds’s year for induction this year coming up in 2020, as well as it should be. Keith Whitley and Dwight Yoakam will also get strong consideration and they would be next in line after The Judds. As far as other artists in that category, Clint Black has come up before. Travis Tritt would be an out-of-the-box choice. Then you have names such as Tim McGraw, Toby Keith and Kenny Chesney that are starting to come up or will come up soon. I really can’t see Marty Stuart in this discussion. Not saying he doesn’t deserve it. But if you do want to throw a name out there and I know that you may not agree with it, but I would mention Shania Twain. Yes, I know that her hit-making career was pretty short and she has rubbed just about everyone in Nashville the wrong way like Webb Pierce and Faron Young. But you can’t deny her indelible impact on not just Country Music, but also on the music industry and all of her accomplishments and record-setting achievements. Other than Garth, No other artist dominated 90’s Country Music and had more worldwide success more so than Shania. Just look at her accomplishments:
She is the Best-Selling Female Country Artist of All-Time with over 100 Million Albums sold worldwide.
She is responsible for the Best-Selling Country Album of All-Time, but also the Best-Selling Album ever by a Female Artist and also in the Soundscan era with her 1997 Album Come On Over which sold more than 40 Million copies worldwide.
She has had 16 Top 10 Hits (including 7 #1 Hits) on the Billboard Charts and she co-wrote nearly every single one of them with her ex-husband and producer Mutt Lange.
She has won 5 Grammys, 13 Juno Awards, 28 Canadian Country Music Awards, 5 American Music Awards, 3 ACM Awards and in 1999, She became only the fifth woman at that time to win the Country Music Association’s highest honor, the CMA Entertainer of the Year award.
She has been honored with the Billboard Women in Music Icon Award in 2016, the Generation Award at the Canadian Country Music Awards in 2018, was named Artist of a Lifetime by CMT in 2016 and has received stars on both Canada’s Walk of Fame and the Hollywood Walk of Fame. She is a member of the Canadian Music Hall of Fame and She has been named to the Order of Canada.
Her iconic music videos are legendary and have since become timeless classics and changed Country Music history.
She has been on the cover of Rolling Stone twice among numerous other magazines and She also has been a spokesperson for Revlon and She sang at Super Bowl 37 in 2003.
She has headlined two residency shows in Las Vegas, first at the Colosseum at Ceasars Palace titled Shania: Still The One which ran from 2012-2014 and now at the Zappos Theater at Planet Hollywood titled Let’s Go which will open on December 6 of this year and she had an exhibit at the Hall of Fame & Museum titled Shania Twain: Rock This Country which ran from June 30, 2017-July 22, 2018.
She published her autobiography From This Moment On in 2011 and She had her own TV Show on the Oprah Winfrey Network that same year called Why Not? with Shania Twain.
She made her acting debut earlier this year in Trading Plant alongside John Travolta and She’ll star in I Still Believe, a movie about Christian Music Star Jeremy Camp as his mother which will come out on March 20 of this year coming up and She also served as a panelist on Real Country on the USA Network which she also served as Executive Producer.
She ushered in a decade of Country-Pop Divas and has been a major influence on Today’s Female Country Artists including Carrie Underwood, Miranda Lambert, Kelsea Ballerini, Maren Morris, Kacey Musgraves and Taylor Swift (before she went Pop), while cementing her place as the Queen of Country-Pop.
So in my opinion, Shania has far more credentials to get into the Hall of Fame from the Modern category than Marty Stuart and she really needs to be in the discussion for the Hall of Fame in that category much more so than Marty IMO.
What do you think?.
Hank & Betty Richards
February 26, 2020 @ 5:14 pm
The Stanley Brothers should be put in the Country Music Hall of Fame. I’m 86 yrs. old and I was listening to them when I was a teen ager. They helped pave the way for country music. They need to be in the hall of fame along with the Maddox Bros. & Rose. They earned it before these others got out of diapers. so lets do this the way it’s supposed to be done and not political favors like everything else.
Pat Tracy
February 26, 2020 @ 5:30 pm
The Carter Bros are a long overdue match for,the .Hall of Fame.
Ricky Rollins
February 26, 2020 @ 5:50 pm
All of these artists that are not yet in the CMHOF hopefully will be inducted one day, but I can’t understand why that Carter and Ralph Stanley are not already in the CMHOF, especially with all of there accomplishments in the music industry and the doors that they helped open for some other people that are already in the CMHOF. I am looking forward to seeing the Stanley Brothers in the CMHOF real soon, please!!!
Brenda Milloy
February 26, 2020 @ 6:33 pm
Both The Stanley Bros and Ralph definitely are part of the backbone of American music. Their contributions to American music are too numerous to list. And Gram Parsons – a true music genius not to mention bringing our attention to the enormously talented Emmylou Harris. That alone is worth entry into the CMHOF.