Billy Ray Cyrus, Jason Crabb, David “Stringbean” Akeman Named To Kentucky Music Hall Of Fame

The Kentucky Music Hall of Fame has named its 2018 class. Billy Ray Cyrus, Jason Crabb, Jackie DeShannon, Dale Ann Bradley, Bobby Lewis, and David “Stringbean” Akeman have all been named to the latest class. The induction ceremony will be held May 11, 2018 at the Center For Rural Development in Somerset, KY.

Flatwoods, Kentucky native Cyrus’ career launched in the early 1990s with“Achy Breaky Heart.” From 2006-2011, his daughter, Miley Cyrus, starred on her own Disney Channel show, Hannah Montana, along with Billy Ray, who played her dad. Cyrus is currently starring in CMT’s Still The King.

Beaver Dam, Kentucky, native Crabb was previously the lead singer for The Crabb Family, until the group’s disbanding in 2007. As a solo artist, Crabb signed with Spring Hill Music Group and released a Grammy-winning project in 2009.

Bradley, born in southeastern Kentucky, has earned the Female Vocalist honor from the International Bluegrass Music Association five times. She has released 10 albums, both as a solo artist and as part of the New Coon Creek Girls.

DeShannon, born in Hazel, Kentucky, is best known as the vocalist for “What The World Needs Now Is Love,” as well as “Put A Little Love In Your Heart.” Also an acclaimed songwriter, she penned songs including the Kim Carnes hit “Bette Davis Eyes,” as well as The Byrds and The Searchers “When You Walk In The Room.”

Akeman, known to fans as “Stringbean,” was a banjo player and member of the Grand Ole Opry. He and his wife were murdered in 1973, after returning to their home after a performance at the Grand Ole Opry.

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Jessica Nicholson

Jessica Nicholson serves as the Managing Editor for MusicRow magazine. Her previous music journalism experience includes work with Country Weekly magazine and Contemporary Christian Music (CCM) magazine. She holds a BBA degree in Music Business and Marketing from Belmont University. She welcomes your feedback at jnicholson@musicrow.com.

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