Jimmy Dean, Ferlin Husky, Billy Sherrill and Don Williams were announced as the future inductees into the Country Music Hall of Fame. Williams will be inducted in the “Modern Era Artist” category, Sherrill in the “Non Performer” category, and both Dean and Husky will be the “Veteran Era Artist” inductees after the two tied in voting.
The inductees all have different claims to fame. Sherrill is an award winning producer and songwriter who has worked with names such as Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson and Hank Williams Jr. Dean has had several hit records dating back to 1952 and was also the first guest host of NBC’s The Tonight Show. Husky has topped the Billboard charts numerous times with hits such as "Gone," "Wings of a Dove," and "Once." He was also the first Country Music star to be inducted into the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Williams was often known as “The Gentle Giant” with hits like "Til the River Runs Dry" and "You’re My Best Friend."
"These four gentlemen broadened Country Music immensely with their talents, exposing millions of fans around the world to our format," said Chairman of the CMA Board of Directors, Steve Moore. "Their contributions to the genre and to popular culture are immeasurable, and we are proud to award them the highest honor in Country Music."
Currently, there are 108 Hall of Fame members, making the four gentlemen a part of an elite group of Country Music legends. The induction for all four men will take place at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum later this year.
