Finally: Hank Williams Jr. Announced for the Country Music Hall of Fame
There are now two Hank Williams in the Country Music Hall of Fame. Finally. The second most famous member of one of country music’s royal families has finally received the distinction fans had been waiting a very long time for. The announcement of Hank Williams Jr. as the 2020 Veterans Era inductee to the Hall of Fame came Wednesday morning (8-12) as the Hall of Fame unexpectedly announced the newest inductees after many delays in the process brought on by COVID-19 and the stuttering of the Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville.
Marty Stuart was named as the Modern Era inductee, and Dean Dillon was named as the 2020 Songwriter inductee in the rotating category that distinguishes songwriters every 3rd year.
Though some wondered if Boceupus might even accept an induction after being snubbed for so long, he said in a statement, “Bocephus has been eyeing this one for awhile. It’s a bright spot during a difficult year. I have been making Top 10 records for 56 years. I fell off a mountain and tried to reinvent myself as a truly individual artist and one who stepped out of the shadows of a very famous man…one of the greatest. I’ve got to thank all those rowdy friends who, year after year, still show up for me. It’s an honor to carry on this family tradition. It is much appreciated.”
Hank Jr.’s career has spanned so many decades, and has seen such major success over that time, that it was hard to pin him down as a Veteran or Modern Era inductee, but what was hard to argue with was that Bocephus belonged. 70 millions records sold, 5 total wins for Entertainer of the Year from the CMA and ACM Awards, 6 platinum records and 20 gold ones, 13 #1 albums, and 10 #1 singles along with a host of other distinctions, Hank Jr. was the most decorated artist to not be in the Hall of Fame who was eligible for an extended period.
Born Randall Hank Williams in 1949 to his famous father and Audrey Williams, Hank was groomed from a very early age to fill the shoes of his dad. Hank Sr. died when Jr. was just four years old, and ever since the age of eight, he was singing Hank Williams songs professionally. Hank Jr. was touring regularly by the time he was 14, and was married for the first time when he was 17. But yearning deep inside of him was the desire to take his career in a different direction, and in the mid 70’s he broke away from his mother’s control, and began forging his own path that would include just as much Southern rock as country.
On August 8th, 1975, just as Hank Jr. was getting ready to start the new era of his career as “Rockin’ Randall Hank,” he nearly died after a 500 foot fall off of Ajax peak in Montana. After many surgeries and a lengthy recovery, Hank Jr. emerged as a strong voice in both country and Southern rock, and became one of the most successful artists of the era. He would reach his commercial peak in the late 80’s when he walked away with Entertainer of the Year trophies five consecutive times, two from the CMA in 1987 and 1988, and three from the ACM’s during the era.
Though Hank Williams Jr. only tours in a limited capacity today, he still remains a major draw, and is revered throughout the industry by fans young and old. Though his outspoken nature and bombast have made him a controversial character in the public spotlight at times, his contributions to American music are hard to deny. In 2015, Hank Williams Jr. signed to Big Machine’s NASH Icon label, and released a new album in 2016 called It’s About Time. Hank Jr. is also the father of successful performers Holly Williams, Hank Williams III (Hank3), and Hilary Williams.
It’s hard to argue with the pick of Hank Williams Jr. as the Country Music Hall of Fame’s latest member. The only question was, why did it take so long? He will be officially inducted into the Hall of Fame in a Medallion Ceremony to be held on a to-be-determined date.
August 12, 2020 @ 7:59 am
Great news to hear, especially given Hank’s recent loss. Dean is an amazing songwriter, and Marty is not only an incredible musician, but a country music advocate. These are ALL great picks. Hopefully, Vern, and Keith are not far behind..
August 12, 2020 @ 8:11 am
Hopefully he can find his way off his property in time to accept.
Damn though, this is a good class…I doubt many would disagree.
August 12, 2020 @ 8:19 am
It’s an excellent class, but few people will really care. The Hall of Fame has ensured that with the way they’ve made these announcements. Folks will notice out of the corner of their eye, and move on, instead of this moment being used to recalibrate attention on country music, the Hall of Fame, and the contributions country has made to American culture, like the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame does annually, with announcing their nominees, inductees, and how they conduct their inductions. Randomly announcing this via unexpected press release on a Wednesday after a Presidential candidate nominated their VP pick assures this info will pass like a fart in the wind. I’m beginning to wonder if this is what the Hall of Fame wants, because they’re worried about possible repercussions for having Hank Jr. and no diversity in the inductee class.
August 12, 2020 @ 8:23 am
I care much more about this than I do either presidential ticket.
August 12, 2020 @ 8:31 am
Well, so do I. But I want the world to care. I want people who don’t really care that much about country music to go, “Huh, I’ll check these people out!” I’ve written about this before, but how they made this announcement was especially poor in my opinion. Take nothing away from the inductees though. Much deserved.
August 12, 2020 @ 9:08 am
I care, and I think all of these choices are spot-on and long overdue.
August 12, 2020 @ 7:59 pm
Jerry Lee Lewis….. maybe next year
August 12, 2020 @ 8:24 am
I thought the same regarding diversity and politics. Surprised to see no teaser from the HOF saying to tune-in for a livestream of the announcement from the CMA. The CMA and HoF have spent all summer creating content and digital concerts etc to make up for cancelled events. The fact there was nothing even hinting at this announcement was surprising.
August 12, 2020 @ 8:28 am
I was just wondering yesterday if they were going to skip inductions completely this year, as the nominees are usually announced in March.
August 12, 2020 @ 8:34 am
I have been in constant contact with these folks. There was no warning, though they have been saying constantly they would let us know when they were ready to make an announcement, which they didn’t. They may have not even known they were making the announcement today until last night or something. And I understand, COVID-19 and all that. But you can’t do a livestream announcement? You can’t cut to Hank Jr. and Marty Stuart in their houses to accept? This doesn’t sit right with me at all. It seems to me like they wanted to bury this announcement.
August 13, 2020 @ 9:16 am
The folks at the Country Music Foundation — or CMF — are the folks who maintain the CMHoF plaques and house them in the museum. The CMF staff is responsible for the content on the CMHoF Museum’s website, not the Country Music Association, who actually bestows the HoF honors to the members.
July 29, 2023 @ 5:56 am
If the CMA wants to do something unprecedented, they should get off their hinnies and start a campaign of celebrating and inducting in rapid fire succession. Forget about whatever hang up you have CMA, if we can recognize the artist and we love his music put them in there chop chop all of them including Jerry Lee chop chop You ain’t got forever!
August 12, 2020 @ 9:18 am
Hank Sr. is in the RR HOF
August 12, 2020 @ 9:56 am
I think you’re spot on about it being intentional, unfortunately.
When I said I doubt many would disagree…I should have been more specific and said “many of your readers…who actually like country music.”
Personally, though I agree with this class, I can’t stand these things. I don’t like musicians because of their “fame” and I don’t think theses ceremonial circle jerks will ever touch on the true magnitude of what these artists’ music has meant to people. But, I know it’s just a weird personal preference, and that I’m in the minority on that. No offense to anyone, and congratulations to all 3.
August 12, 2020 @ 10:05 am
The only reason I saw it at all was because it was posted here. And I think you’re right, Trigger. Odd time to dump the news unless you didn’t want attention.
August 12, 2020 @ 12:28 pm
I like all three of them. Hank Williams Jr deserved to be in Country music Hall of Fame and Marty Stuart and Dean Dillon as well. Congratulations ???? to all three of them.
August 12, 2020 @ 5:08 pm
There is plenty of country music diversity in the class and that is what truly matters.
Let the snowflakes whine about their fake diversity cries.
August 30, 2020 @ 5:34 pm
You can shove diversity down the throats of those only willing to swallow. Some things have to be earned. Bocephus is the “Trump” of country music and deserved this 20 years ago.
August 12, 2020 @ 10:05 am
Add Gene Watson to the list 🙂
August 12, 2020 @ 8:17 am
Despite the logjam that will no doubt leave many fans lamenting the continued exclusion of their personal favorites, it’s hard to imagine any clear-thinking individual having a problem with any of these selections. Congratulations to all three.
August 12, 2020 @ 8:19 am
Hopefully, Don Maddox can hang on for at least one more year.
August 12, 2020 @ 9:56 am
From my understanding, one of the biggest champions for getting The Maddox Brothers and Rose into the Country Music Hall of Fame has been Marty Stuart, who owns much of their memorabilia, and contributed it to the Bakersfield Exhibit the Hall of Fame had a few years ago. Not sure how Marty being inducted works into that equation, but it can’t hurt, while ticking of Hank Jr. in the Veterans category where he was such a clear front runner opens the field for future years.
Praying for good health for both Don Maddox and Jerry Lee Lewis.
August 12, 2020 @ 3:30 pm
Next year is the 60th anniversary of the Country Music Hall of Fame. It’s about time that there was a special induction to ensure that some of the Veteran Era artists get included. Something like happened in the early 2000s. There are so many artists that contributed so much who are not in. I don’t have a great knowledge of the old days but can think of several who seem to be getting further and further away from getting in. The Maddox Brothers and Sister Rose, The Stanley Brothers, The Carter Sisters, Tanya Tucker (yes she’s been around for over 45 years), Gram Parsons, Linda Ronstadt, Ray Benson (or Asleep at the Wheel) and Vern Gosdin have all made notable contributions to Country Music and I’m sure that there are many more including Bluegrass artists, Folk artists that have had a strong influence on Country Music like Woody Guthrie or Hazel Dickens, and the whole Western (Cowboy) aspect of Country Music
August 12, 2020 @ 8:20 am
A very worthy class indeed.
August 12, 2020 @ 8:27 am
I am thrilled Hank, Jr. and Marty are being inducted. And maybe I’m a big conspersicy theorist reading this news, but I would not be surprised if 2020 is not a “special class” due to the COVID-19 outbreak. I think the goal here may be not to have a formal “red carpet concert”. Here are my thoughts.
1) Hank, Jr. – Years overdue and suddley this year he gets in. Perharps because he could not voice any political or CMA opionions at an acceptance speech or concert.
2) Marty Stuart – Well deserving, but his greatest accomplishments have been behind the sceens, as an ambassador of preserving country music, etc. His catelog of songs are not as big as his peers, Garth Brooks, Alan Jackson or Brooks and Dunn. Imagine a concert with “Hillbiilly Rock” a a few others.
3). Dean Dillon – There are at least half of dozen songwriters I would have put in prior to Dillion. So when is the best year to put in a songwriter who’s categlog is composed of manly one artist (George Strait)? How about the pandemic year with no concert. It would virtually be Strait singing a half dozen of his songs, with maybe one or two other artists (if they would show up).
In reality the next announced should be in a short 6 months. Hopefully COVID will be dead or died down and it will be business as usual.
Do not get me wrong. All of these guys are deserving. I’m a huge fan of Marty and Jr. But like the mass induction class of 2001, this may be a “great it over with” year (for example, Don Gibson, Waylon Jennings, Webb Pierce, ect).
I’m 100% convinced this election process is phoney as a $3 bill.
August 12, 2020 @ 9:14 am
Dean Dillon wrote or co-wrote tracks with or for:
Alabama
Vince Gill
Pam Tillis
Toby Keith
Vern Gosdin
Shenandoah
Keith Whitley
Gary Stewart
George Jones
Rodney Atkins
Paul Overstreet
Kenny Chesney
David Allan Coe
Hank Williams Jr.
Sammy Kershaw
Lee Ann Womack
“Tennessee Whiskey”, “Miami, My Amy”, “Twenty Years & Two Husbands Ago”, “All The Good Ones Are Gone”, “If I Could Bottle This Up”, “Set ‘Em Up, Joe”, “Is It Raining At Your House”, “Spilled Perfume”, “Homecoming ’63″…
August 12, 2020 @ 10:36 am
I will not argue that Dillon is not worthy. I am simply saying his catelog of music is not as diversified as someone such as Bob McDill, who I believe should have gone into the Hall of Fame prior to Dillon. Other than the dozen or so #1 songs by Strait the only “aww” worthy in my opionion by Dillon is “Tennessee Whiskey”, “A Lot of Things Different(” co written with Bill Anderson) and “Set Em Up Joe” and “Raining at Your House” by Vern Gosdin. The others are just “good country songs”.
August 12, 2020 @ 12:59 pm
I believe Dillon belongs, no question. The Strait phenomenon of extended hitmaking success is unprecedented in recorded music history, and as Strait didn’t write (until late in the game) the writer behind the songs should be recognized. I thought McDill was in, already–He belongs.
I’ll just add that a few of those non-Strait songs that you mention have a bunch of co-writers. “Set Em Up Joe” is attributed to Gosdin , Hank Cochran, Dillon and Buddy Cannon. “Is it Raining at Your House” is attributed to those writers, minus Cannon.
August 12, 2020 @ 5:40 pm
Not unprecedented – Conway Twitty?!
August 12, 2020 @ 7:40 pm
Conway had top-10 country hits almost continuously from 1968 to 1990–about 22 years. Strait had top-10 hits continuously from 1981 to 2012–some 31 years and #1’s from 1982 to 2008, some 26 years. And Strait had more #1s. I’d say Strait’s run was unprecedented, though it’s close. You have to give Conway credit because he had the # 1 hit “It’s Only Make Believe” on the pop chart in the ’50s. And Conway had to frequently reinvent himself to stay on top, changing his appearance, his singing style and his record labels. Strait seemed to just sail for three-plus decades on MCA Records keeping everything largely the same for almost the whole time.
August 12, 2020 @ 1:47 pm
Long overdue for Hank, I almost wished he had said to hell with you. I dont mind Marty Stuart but same time as Hank is really. Dillon definitely deserved it. I was a super big fan of Hanks back in the day, I still am but I kind of tired of him after the left field cd, don’t know why, just moved on. Mainly I loved his more laid back stuff.
August 12, 2020 @ 8:30 am
Trigger – Thanks for keeping Hank’s exclusion front and center with your excellent articles on the matter, especially after last year. This is great news. #BocephusBelongs
August 12, 2020 @ 8:50 am
Congratulations Adam. I know y’all worked very hard for this day.
August 12, 2020 @ 8:35 am
Long time coming and all so very deserving. I agree, how can you make such an important decision so matter of factly? Why not have announced it during the Saturday night Opry show?
I too hope Maddox Bros and Rose get in next year!
August 12, 2020 @ 8:56 am
Yes to Dean Dillon.
Yes to Marty Stuart.
A big fat No to Hank Williams Jr.
Well…no female artist or songwriter was “good” enough for the HoF.
August 12, 2020 @ 9:52 am
Why “no” as to Hank, Jr.?
August 12, 2020 @ 10:44 am
Someone just has to be pissy pants, they all deserve this very much and it is about time they were put in the hall of fame
August 12, 2020 @ 1:03 pm
@matt. Why ask?
Anybody who thinks Hank Jr. does not belong in the country music H-o-F is not worth arguing about music with.
August 12, 2020 @ 2:17 pm
Thanks Lucky, but I was trying to learn, not argue.
August 12, 2020 @ 3:48 pm
Lol.
So only people who say yes to your opinion are “worth arguing about music with”?
Well…arguing with people (not only about music) having the nose so high up in the air is worthless too. Typerys.
August 12, 2020 @ 3:34 pm
Because everybody (?) here on SCM goes gaga about the election of Hank Williams Jr. i can have my own opinion…can’t i?
For sure (Un-)Popular Opinion: without the name Hank Williams Hank Jr. would be an artist with a more or less big career…like hundreds of other artists.
Is Hank Jr. talented? Sure he is.
Is Hank Jr. outstanding? Well…sorry…not in my opinion.
August 12, 2020 @ 3:58 pm
Not a bad point, and I’m always glad to hear your opinion OlaR.
September 1, 2020 @ 12:11 pm
OlaR Hank has a track record unmatched by any other artist. He would have been famous even if his name was different. I think the name is what took so long to get him inducted. If you don’t think he is outstanding go to a show once. Then you will understand.
August 12, 2020 @ 5:53 pm
My personal opinion reflects OlaR. I’m not big into country rock and never really connected to any of Hanks Jr’s songs as an Englishman! I connect more with Conway Twitty/Marty Robbins type songs. I would have preferred Jerry Lee Lewis as his (country) songs stop you in your tracks! But for what Hank Jr. has done for country music he has to be inducted!
August 13, 2020 @ 8:53 am
@Olar,
It’s not unusual for children of superstar musicians to learn how to play and go off on their own music careers. The name gets you in the door, but it only takes you so far. Everyone from Justin Tubb to Dennis, Gary, Lindsay, and Phil (sons of Bing) Crosby to Nancy Sinatra to Frank Sinatra Jr. to Ronnie Robbins to David Frizzell (brother of Lefty) to Rosanne Cash to John Carter Cash to Marty Haggard to Noel Haggard to Pam Tillis to Georgette Jones to countless others have given it a shot. Most flopped. A few became successes. Much fewer, still became superstar headliners.
Hank Jr. had some early success as a tribute/clone of his father, but that had pretty much petered out when he reinvented himself as Bocephus. Sure, he continued to name-check his father–and himself–constantly, but he was playing to a younger crowd that knew of Hank Williams as a historic, southern-pride figure but did not listen to his music. From that point, he made it entirely on his own.
August 13, 2020 @ 2:16 pm
I agree with your overall point, but Rosanne Cash is different from the rest on your list in that she had an arguably Hall-worthy career.
August 13, 2020 @ 2:31 pm
@james–And I agree with yours. I said the superstars’ progeny run the gamut from flops to successes to superstar headliners. Rosanne maybe would be a H-o-F’er if she stayed in the country music “industry” after her radio hit career ended. Moving to New York probably reduced that chance. Though she did do the H-o-F “artist in residence” thing, which is usually a harbinger to induction for artists who have the commercial credentials.
August 12, 2020 @ 10:02 am
I think these picks were very solid and hard to argue with. But if I was to make one change, if only as a Devil’s Advocate, it would be to put The Judds in the Modern Era, which was my 1A pick to Marty’s 1B, only because Naomi has been ill, and you want to see her inducted sooner than later. Marty is going in. There is no doubt about that. The only question was when. The Judds would have satisfied the call for more diversity in these picks, while also being very deserving. But again, with some of the weird picks they’ve made in the past, let’s not get too second guessing of a quality year.
Think what you want about Hank Jr. Not having him in calls into question the legitimacy of the entire institution.
August 12, 2020 @ 10:32 am
Also have to say looking back through my picks and prognostications …
https://savingcountrymusic.com/country-music-hall-of-fame-picks-predictions-for-2020/
…I also thought Tanya Tucker had a good chance in the Modern Era category with the resurgence in her career.
Hank Jr. was my #1 pick for Veterans Era, and Dean Dillon was my #2 pick for songwriter behind Townes Van Zandt, which admittedly was a pipe dream, but an important name to advocate for.
August 12, 2020 @ 4:11 pm
Trigger:
I agree that these three are very good choices for the Hall of Fame, and I hope to see Tanya in there in due course.
But . . . the Judds?
Are you serious?
August 12, 2020 @ 4:45 pm
Sure. What’s wrong with The Judds? Rumors had them on the final ballot this year, which means they’re likely to get in in the next four or five years, and if Naomi is ailing, why not award them when she’s still alive? Or as Tanya Tucker would say, “Bring My Flowers Now.”
There’s two factors when considering Hall of Fame inductees. The first is my personal opinion based off of a professional perspective on the music, and the second is reading the room, and who it feels could create a consensus for enough votes. I personally think Marty Stuart is an excellent pick for the Hall. But I think The Judds have a lot of momentum behind them, and I expect them to be inducted in the Modern era sooner than later.
August 12, 2020 @ 6:30 pm
OK.
I just think they’re a little lightweight when it comes to Hall of Fame contention. Granted, most people are bigger fans of girl singers than I am.
August 13, 2020 @ 6:30 am
The Judds?
Deserving?
HAHAHAHAHAHAHA
August 13, 2020 @ 7:35 am
The Judds will be inducted in the next five years or less. I would say they’re the frontrunners for the Modern Era category next year. Laugh all you want, but the alternative to them could either be Shania Twain, or Kenny Chesney. Who would you choose? And they may have to go in before Tanya Tucker, Dwight Yoakam, or Keith Whitley get a shot.
August 14, 2020 @ 6:54 am
I will take Kenny over them.
Sure, they are better than Shania “Barbie Doll” Twain but that is a low standard.
What a war of attrition we are fighting if the Judds get first priority over Yoakam.
August 14, 2020 @ 9:51 am
Well again, there is opinion on who should be in, and opinion on who has a better chance of getting in. The issue Dwight will have is he’s a West Coast guy, and the people who get in are the ones who can get in the committee’s ear and stay there, and this tends to favor folks you see around Nashville at functions and such. Dwight definitely gets in, but I personally see him waiting in line for a few more years as The Judds and/or Tanya Tucker, and then either Kenny or Shania get in. The thing about Kenny is he may not want it yet. Getting into the Hall of Fame sort of makes you an oldie, and Kenny is still out there trying to pretend he’s 27.
August 12, 2020 @ 10:03 am
Dumb.
August 12, 2020 @ 12:11 pm
OlaR, I’m as left wing as they come around these parts, but Bocephus is an A number 1 quality singer, songwriter, guitarist, and all around country musician. The album that came out right before he fell off the mountain basically created the whole genre of country rock in the 1970s. I’m glad I got to see him twice in concert, the first time of which was in a huge arena where the encore was Hank jamming out w/ opening act the KY headhunters. Hank Williams, Jr. is special, no matter how you slice it.
August 12, 2020 @ 9:25 am
I hope Marty will use his new HoF member status to raise some hell about those artists not yet in such as Jerry Lee, Carter & Ralph Stanley, The Osborne Bros., Jimmy Martin, and the Maddox Bros. and Rose. Marty will likely lean on ’em to get the Dylan induction moving forward as well.
August 12, 2020 @ 10:03 am
Yes, Marty Stuart will be a strong advocate for these important Veterans Era nominees, and hopefully his voice will hold even more weight in the room now.
August 12, 2020 @ 9:29 am
I seriously doubt the announcement was timed with the announcement of the VP choice to somehow “hide” their choices for the Country Music Hall of Fame. If you are not a fan of country music already their nominations won’t matter. In a good year it would have been a blip on the radar with most people confused as to why they weren’t already included.
My guess is that ol’Hank was asked previous to the announcement and they knew he would accept. He has tended to be his own worst enemy if being a part of the CHoF was important to him. At his age he better or the chance might never come again while alive.
For Marty, he is literally building his legacy in a tribute to all of Country Music. His legacy will be that of an impeccable musician that chose to chronicle and document “Country” music so that the roots won’t be forgotten. I am sure Hank Jr. will have a place in it.
Personally, I think they are all great choices.
August 12, 2020 @ 10:10 am
I don’t think the Hall of Fame timed their announcement purposely to be buried by the veep pick. After all, that was sort of fumbled out itself, and unexpected, and delayed. But it didn’t help. Nor does it help that they made no sort of announcement, or presentation whatsoever. Totally understand with COVID-19, whatever happened would be scaled back. But you could have still held some sort of press conference, virtual or otherwise. With the way the actual induction ceremony in country is exclusive and private, the announcement is the only public opportunity for the artists to speak.
The Hall of Fame made multiple public announcements as well as private assurances saying they would let us know when they would announce the 2020 picks. They didn’t do that. It’s strange.
August 12, 2020 @ 9:33 am
This is an A+ selection. These three artists are among the best picks in recent years. All three are phenomenal choices. One of the best inductee tickets in recent memory. All three stand on their own with their body of work and contributions to the genre.
August 12, 2020 @ 9:54 am
For an institution that occasionally makes puzzling selections this is a fantastic induction class! Hank Jr. AND Marty Stuart AND Dean Dillon? Jackpot!!!
August 12, 2020 @ 9:56 am
I love the Whiskey Bent and Hell Bound album but am otherwise relatively ignorant about Hank Jr.’s body of work. I’d appreciate tips on other Hank Jr. albums that shouldn’t be missed. Thanks.
August 12, 2020 @ 10:06 am
Starting with Hank Jr and Friends in 1975 and all his albums till the late 80s are awesome. My favorite are Whiskey Bent and Hell Bound, The New South, Habits Old and New, and The Pressure is On.
August 12, 2020 @ 12:16 pm
It’d be time well spent to use ‘you tube’ to further explore the range of his music. There are many great videos before his fall and his change in direction….Were he’s doing his fathers songs and the sound of that era, sans beard and glasses. The style, voice and material are different, but it’s a total pro band and classic country nonetheless. Then there’s the post- fall, career reinvention years with the ‘Bama band’, were he’s reborn and vibrantly performing his songs while playing damn good tele lead in b/t. ie: his performance on hee- haw of ‘Whiskey, Bent, and Hell Bound’, but there are dozens of live clips in this phase, which I consider his prime. Also some entertaining candid Interviews on his life up til then.
He starts to lose me in the late 80’s when the shows become over- blown rock productions like he’s drawing influence from early MTV hair band aesthetic. But don’t take my word for it, there’s thousands of hours to hear and see Hank Jr in all phases of a long and diverse career, for you to see for yourself.
August 13, 2020 @ 5:34 am
The five albums that Colter mentioned happy the five that I have. I also picked up the 2 CD 35 Biggest Hits to help fill in some holes (mainly his song Family Tradition and post-“The Pressure Is On” work). A very good compilation, I think.
August 13, 2020 @ 5:36 am
“happen to be the five that I have”
August 12, 2020 @ 9:57 am
Dean Dillon is hands-down one of the best songwriters to grace Nashville. I saw an earlier comment on here that said he shouldn’t get in because he primarily wrote songs for George Strait (not true, Dean’s written for a ton of others), but if anything George helped Dean get in by shining a light on his songs. This class is fantastic. Now to get Keith Whitley in, and in a few years, Dwight.
August 12, 2020 @ 10:05 am
It’s about time.
I wish I didn’t think it, but I can’t help but suspect that the loss of Katherine had something to do with this, reminding folks that Jr. is more than the sum of whatever negative feelings they harbor towards him. He’s got his warts, but he had a heck of a career, and you might even say two careers.
And congrats to Stuart and Dillon, too. It’s a shame it’s not a year to throw all three a well deserved party.
August 12, 2020 @ 10:51 am
I believe these selections were made well in advance. The typical announcement is March and the HOF postponed this year’s announcement. So I don’t think a sympathy vote would factor in on this occasion.
August 12, 2020 @ 11:02 am
Okay, yeah, I should have thought out the timeline. What you’re saying makes sense.
August 12, 2020 @ 10:07 am
Stand back, its gonna get loud!
WOOO HOOO! YEE HAWWW Yall! Yay, Yay, Yay!!!! About time!!! YES, YES, and YES! Way to go Bocephus and so nice to see hes accepting it graciously. Hank Williams Jr folks!!!! Thank you voters for getting it right.
Dean Dillon is a fantastic pick. They ought to call him Dean Solid Country Gold Dillon. So deserving. If anyone is interested Amazon has had a doc on Dillon called Tennessee Whiskey. Well worth watching.
Marty Stuart is icing. I knew he’d get in eventually. Hes the ambassador of Country Music in my book. He might lack number 1 hits but he’s done so much for the music and remains its greatest spokesman.
Terrific news!
August 12, 2020 @ 10:46 am
I like all these choices. Vern Gosdin and Gene Watson next, please!
August 12, 2020 @ 12:17 pm
I dont wanna rain on your parade because I love Gene and Vern, I do. And I think their voices are among the greats. But….Vern is an extreme longshot, not that many hits in the stream of things..Gene might have a shot but not before a whole lot of other people. In an ideal universe, yes. Problem is there are too many left out in line waiting right now that are glaring. Even Keith Whitley who I put in the same vocal category, is a longshot.
August 12, 2020 @ 10:47 am
Oh, and Tanya!!
August 12, 2020 @ 10:59 am
Finally got it right!!!
August 12, 2020 @ 11:41 am
On a separate note: how many Country Music Hall of Fame members are, or have been, married or related to each other (not counting people who were inducted together as part of a group, like Alabama, Everlys, or the Carters)?
I can think of these:
Hank Sr and Jr
George and ex-wife Tammy
Harold and Jerry Bradley
Marty Stuart and Connie Smith.
I would like to see that list grow when Crystal Gayle and Rosanne Cash get inducted, but that’s a ways off.
August 12, 2020 @ 1:22 pm
There’s also Fred and Wesley Rose in that group of related inductees not as an act.
August 12, 2020 @ 1:25 pm
Also don’t forget Harold’s brother and Jerry’s dad, producer Owen Bradley.
August 12, 2020 @ 12:00 pm
Congratulations Hank jr its about dang time
Love your music .
August 12, 2020 @ 12:16 pm
About time! Hank Jr. should have been in a long, long time ago. The man has touched country music at all levels from being the literal offspring of the biggest star in country music history (Hank Sr.) to hanging out with the biggest stars of the 60s and 70s (Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings among others) to becoming a bona fide star in his own right in the 70s and 80s.
It’s sad it took this long, but very well-deserved from an all-time great.
August 12, 2020 @ 12:20 pm
I, too, was certain The Judds would get in this year, but I don’t mind being wrong. I love, love Marty Stuart, so I am ecstatic.
August 12, 2020 @ 12:41 pm
I hope Gram Parsons and Dwight Yoakam get in the Hall. Do you think they have a chance Trigger?
August 12, 2020 @ 1:33 pm
I expect Dwight to become a strong contender in the Modern Era category in the coming years. The Judds and Keith Whitley may need to tick off the list before him, but he’s right there near the top.
Gram Parsons is sort of its own discussion, but as long as there remains a massive backlog in the Veterans Era, I don’t think it’s a real possibility.
You can see some of my prognostications from earlier this year here:
https://savingcountrymusic.com/country-music-hall-of-fame-picks-predictions-for-2020/
August 12, 2020 @ 2:37 pm
prog·nos·ti·ca·tion
the action of foretelling or prophesying future events.
Wont find that one in Rolling Stone Country!
August 13, 2020 @ 11:18 am
I have to admit I usually have to look up 1 or 2 words per SCM album review!
August 12, 2020 @ 1:05 pm
Will III show up for Jr’s induction?
Or will he say, “Not if Rock is there.”
August 12, 2020 @ 1:29 pm
Good question.
August 12, 2020 @ 2:13 pm
The better question is will III show up ANYWHERE! He is a fan of Marty, so maybe….
But probably not.
August 12, 2020 @ 2:27 pm
I don’t know him, so I’m not speaking from authority. But it seems to me that Shelton Williams had a more difficult time dealing with being the son of a famous, superstar father and trying to char his own course than Randall did.
August 12, 2020 @ 2:55 pm
III is off the grid. Seriously doubt he even cares about his Dads induction. They haven’t had a great relationship anyway. Shelton was raised by his Mom. These days hes a full blown hermit. Just ask pickers around Nashville if you wanna know the deal on III.
August 13, 2020 @ 8:00 am
Could you share what you have heard about him? Haha not a good sign when you say pickers and I am wondering if you mean guitar players or people that dumpster dive.
August 13, 2020 @ 8:41 am
Ronnie, im a friendly type.. When in Nashville I often talk to the musicians in the honky tonks. Ive met some who know III, there’s been quite a list of pickers who shared a stage with him. I dont wanna say bad things about Shelton. Hes pretty well liked across the board and most are pulling for him to return to music. The easiest way to say it is in the song Family Tradition. If you get the drift. But I haven’t heard anyone who’s real optimistic on him at this point. But who knows, something tells me we haven’t seen the last of III.
August 13, 2020 @ 8:53 am
Not to get ahead of news that might be coming, but I spoke to someone just late last week who is in a position to know that said that Shelton is doing “very well” right now. Can’t speak about the various moods he may have been in over the last five years, but I’m being told he’s doing “very well” now. May have more on this soon. May not. But just wanted to throw that out there.
August 13, 2020 @ 11:25 am
In a weird way, I get a little nostalgic when I hear this. Remember in the old days when we didn’t know an artist’s every move, what they had for breakfast, what their kid did that day and what random thought just came to their head? When word of mouth or a story published by someone who knows someone was interesting? I want to hear new music from this guy, but there’s also something intriguing about the mystery and imagination of wondering what he’s up to. Not suggesting we need one extreme or the other…just makes me think of how things used to be. I kind of think that way with Evan too. I like the idea of him doing shit, hopefully to get himself right, without us needing to know, and without all the noise and self promotion of constant updates.
That said it’s been many years here, and if he dropped a surprise album tomorrow, I can’t say I wouldn’t freak out.
August 13, 2020 @ 11:29 am
Damn that’s some weird timing, I hadn’t seen the new article yet.
Funny that the updates are coming from another nostalgic tradition…a book.
August 12, 2020 @ 4:23 pm
It’s 2020 and Hell has officially frozen over!
Seriously, this is long overdue and Bocephus should have been in a decade ago, if not longer. Marty and Dean Dillon are great inductees as well. We needed some good news and this fills the bill.
August 12, 2020 @ 4:54 pm
Hank Jr did a MNF spot with FGL, if he had real country balls he would’ve said no to that..weak inductee
August 12, 2020 @ 5:14 pm
Ha! Trust me. Hank Williams Jr. has no everloving clue who Florida Georgia Line is. He once co-headlined a tour with Chris Stapleton … and had no clue who Chris Stapleton was.
https://savingcountrymusic.com/despite-co-headlining-tour-hank-jr-has-no-clue-who-chris-stapleton-is/
Even so, to hold the guy’s entire body of work at bay due to one Monday Night Football collaboration where they probably didn’t even use the same iso booth for their voice overs is pretty weak. I don’t like Florida Georgia Line either, but come on.
August 12, 2020 @ 5:42 pm
well said
August 12, 2020 @ 5:14 pm
Too bad, the HOF was worried about some snowflakes and buried the announcement for three well-deserved candidates.
Still, they are in and that is what matters.
August 12, 2020 @ 5:47 pm
We don’t know that’s why the announcement was made like this. I was pretty steamed this morning, but there could be a legitimate excuse. Perhaps they thought the announcement was about to leak. Maybe there’s some logistical behind-the-scenes reason.
August 13, 2020 @ 7:06 am
As usual, Trigger, your take on things are as good as it gets. ALL (alleged) journalist should look to you for guidance no matter what their title or who or what they write for. Objective is THE key. You are, without a doubt (as I’ve said before) the MOST objective journalist I’ve ever read, period and I read a lot.
But, that’s not why I chose to jump in here. This statement I’m replying to is because of the word “excuse”- that word is nothing more than an attempt (usually lame) to justify an action, or thought. “Reason”, on the other hand is a sound explanation of whatever.
Legitimate and excuse don’t belong together, They create an oxy moron when presented that way.
AS for the inductees- great choices all.
As for the “reluctance” of the HOF staff to make a bigger issue of it just illustrates why people are turned off by “official” anything. Days and dollars late and off key is what comes to mind.
August 12, 2020 @ 6:12 pm
No problem with Jr.’s views. It’s only a problem to some because he leans right. Just look and listen to many of the dope-lipped rock and roll inductees. Of course they can be political, and are even applauded for doing so. Why? Because they lean left.
Never is hypocrisy more prevalent than in the entertainment business.
By the way, take a listen at Pop Staples speech when they were inducted. It was not political but certainly religous. You could tell many were squirming during the speech. Good. By the way, I love Pop Staples. He was a class act.
August 12, 2020 @ 5:33 pm
Its about time for Bocephus! Family tradition for countryboy
August 12, 2020 @ 7:34 pm
Long time reader. First time commenter. Just wanted to add my joy at Hank Jr. being inducted. He was the man who got me into country music here in the UK. Been lucky enough to see Hank III here a few times and talk to him about his father. Two great musicians & great men.
August 12, 2020 @ 7:35 pm
Thanks for reading Colston.
August 13, 2020 @ 5:27 am
Once again, Dwight Yoakam is overlooked. Not saying Hank Jr doesn’t deserve it, and I know the way that the CMHoF does it adds to the prestige by limiting the number of inductees each year, but this inevitably means that very deserving artists are left out over and over again. Dwight should have been in years ago.
August 13, 2020 @ 6:23 am
I figured they were hoping and waiting until Jr died so they could safely award him without having to bring in out in public for an acceptance. Covid has given them a safe and easy cover. Whatever. A lot and perhaps even most people look at these award type things as jokes anyhow. I’d like to think Country Music is a bit above that but politics and money always finds a way into almost everything. If Jr told them to go get bent I wouldn’t blame him but I don’t think he will.
I also had no idea that the Judds weren’t already in it as well. Shocking maybe but not surprised.
I actually don’t care too much about this stuff but finding out that JR and the Judds aren’t in it and I’m sure I’d be shocked to see who else isn’t and who is just confirms why people like me don’t buy into popularity contests for homecoming king and queen or anything else like it.
August 13, 2020 @ 7:36 am
The HOF isn’t really an “award.”
August 13, 2020 @ 9:18 am
You don’t get awarded membership?
August 13, 2020 @ 9:40 am
I think the term is inducted as opposed to awarded. But its of course a tremendous honor.
The Opry deal is also not an award, its an exusive invitation of sorts but not an award per se.
August 13, 2020 @ 7:26 am
It occurs to me, and maybe someone else has already stated this, so I apologize for the repetition but I read maybe 40 comments of the (as of this writing 94 comments including the reply I gave Trigger that hasn’t posted yet) that there is a LONG, LONG, LONG list of great Country performers and very little room. Just off the top of my head (and no, I’m not up to speed on who is and who isn’t in the HOF since I only pay scant attention to it) but Stonewall Jackson was the first person I emulated with my first guitar in 1961 with Don’t Be Angry With Me Darlin’ and Don Gibson’s “Born To Lose” is the reason I have those words tattooed on my left forearm.
Anyway, the list is long and I doubt we’ll see everyone we think *should* be there actually getting the honor.
August 13, 2020 @ 10:38 am
About time! Well deserved. One of the greats.
September 1, 2020 @ 12:20 pm
Don Gibson is in there.
August 13, 2020 @ 2:16 pm
Flash forward 10 years when Jordan Davis is being inducted, and we’re all saying “Well, it really shoulda been ol Luke Bryan’s turn…”
August 13, 2020 @ 5:21 pm
No Gram!!
Sigh!!
No Tanya….How long has she been on the boards??
And the process regarding the inductee announcements??
Pathetic at best .
August 14, 2020 @ 6:25 am
Like Marty Stuart, Hank Jr,. paid his dues, making music as a kid, and stepping in his own right as a performer something he always wanted to do. He should’ve been there a decade or so back, Marty should’ve,too. Now he need to get Mickey Gilley,Jerry Lee Lewis, Johnny & Jack,the Bailes Brothers and the Stanley Bros, and Johnny Paycheck. Maybe Gary Stewart,too.
August 15, 2020 @ 9:48 pm
People who did not deserve induction into the CMHOF, in my opinion:
Hubert Long, ’79
Connie B. Gay, ’80
Grant Turner, ’81
Roy Horton, ’82
George Morgan, ’98
Johnny Bond, ’99
Porter Wagoner, ’02
Bill Carlisle, ’02
DeFord Bailey, ’05
Jean Shepard, ’11
Connie Smith, ’12
Bobby Bare, ’13
Mac Wiseman, ’14
Jim Ed Brown and The Browns, ’15
I know that for many, success on the Grand Ol’ Opry equals prominence in country music at large. I disagree. While I enjoy listening to artists like DeFord Bailey, The Browns, and George Morgan, I just don’t believe they were that influential. And the many executives I’ve listed were elected to the Hall only because they served on the CMA/CMF Boards without actually making a great impact in country music.
Hank, Jr. should have been elected long ago. As for other artists mentioned above in this thread, I say NO to:
The Maddox Bros. and Rose
Mother Maybelle and the Carter Sisters
Gram Parsons
Vern Gosdin
Stonewall Jackson
Lynn Anderson
Roseanne Cash
Asleep at the Wheel
Ray Charles
Woody Guthrie
The Osborne Bros.
And YES to:
The Stanley Bros.
Jerry Lee Lewis
Johnny Horton
Tanya Tucker
The Judds
Crystal Gayle
John Denver
Eddie Rabbitt
Dwight Yoakam
Keith Whitley
Alison Krauss
I guess at this point, it’s too late for:
Al Dexter
Jimmy Wakely
Ted Daffan
Spade Cooley
Moon Mullican
John Lair
August 17, 2020 @ 9:43 pm
I can’t believe it took this long for the Hall of fame to recognize Hank jr for this reward. The man has proven himself as an multi-talented musician, performer and songwriter. He plays all types of music and does it his way and it worked for his fans. I am excited that he finally got what he deserved years ago. I have been a fan since the early sixties. In my opinion you are one of the best.