Musicians Hall of Fame honors Class of 2019

Alabama, Steve Wariner, Don Everly among inductees

By Preshias Harris

Vocalists might spend more time in the spotlight but it’s the musicians who create the unforgettable sounds that are an integral part of every song.  It was the musicians’ night to take center stage at the Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum, Tuesday, October 22.

The Class of 2019 were honored with medallion presentations followed by a gala concert at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center in Downtown Nashville.  Among the honorees were the legendary band Alabama, singer-songwriter and guitarist Steve Wariner, Don Everly, the Surfaris, renowned musicians from Muscle Shoals and more. See below for a full list of this year’s inductees.

‘The cream of the crop,’ says Teddy Gentry

I caught up with Teddy Gentry, founding member of Alabama, on the red carpet before the induction ceremony. Alabama was presented with the Musicians Hall of Fame’s first ever Lifetime Achievement Award.  I asked Teddy what this special event meant to him.

Left to right: Jeff Cook, Teddy Gentry and Randy Owen of Alabama. Photo credit: Pete Collins/Musicians HoF & Museum

“Being honored among this quality of musicians here is a little extraordinary.  This is the cream of the crop and to be recognized in the same way as these guys is really a great honor,” said Gentry.

Alabama was formed in 1969 in Forth Payne, AL, by cousins Teddy Gentry, Randy Owen and Jeff Cook. Blending country, Southern rock, pop and even bluegrass elements, Alabama racked up more than 40 number one hits on the Billboard country charts, many of which crossed over into the pop charts.  With sales of more than 75 million records, they are recognized as the most successful band in country music history.

Steve Wariner, Certified Guitar Player

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