Pictured (L-R): John Anderson, James Burton and Tricia Covel attend the Class of 2024 Medallion Ceremony at Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Photo: Terry Wyatt/Getty Images for Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Three more outstanding record-makers were added to the historic Country Music Hall of Fame last night (Oct. 20) during a star-studded Medallion Ceremony in the Hall’s CMA Theater. John Anderson, James Burton and Toby Keith became the 153rd, 154th and 155th members of the esteemed institution.
CEO of Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, Kyle Young speaks onstage at Class of 2024 Medallion Ceremony. Photo: Terry Wyatt/Getty Images for Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Each inductee was honored with heartfelt remarks and performances of some of their enduring songs. The Hall of Fame’s CEO Kyle Young welcomed the crowd of supporters and industry member’s with a Merle Haggard recording from the museum’s archive, as each inductee had a personal connection to Haggard.
Young recognized the Hall of Fame members who had been lost since last year’s ceremony, including Keith, Kris Kristofferson and Joe Bonsall. He also welcomed the Hall’s Circle Guard, including Board chair Jody Williams, who spoke, as well as the Hall of Fame members who were in attendance to support the new additions to the family.
CMA CEO Sarah Trahern shared a few words about giving the news to the inductees, and spoke about finding out that Keith had been selected for induction the day that the news broke that he had passed.
Del McCoury Band performs onstage at the Class of 2024 Medallion Ceremony. Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images for Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
John Anderson was the first to be heralded. A career video recounted his journey from Apopka, Florida to Nashville, where he made a mark with his unique vocal stylings. Influenced by Country Music Hall of Fame members Lefty Frizzell, Merle Haggard and George Jones as well as Levon Helm of the Band, Anderson fashioned his own breathy, note-bending vocal approach, and created iconic country hits like “Seminole Wind,” “Straight Tequila Night” and his top-selling “Swingin.” Between 1981 and 1995, Anderson notched 20 top 10 country singles and five No. 1 hits.
To honor him, Shawn Camp lended his voice to Anderson’s “I Just Came Home to Count the Memories,” the Del McCoury Band thrilled with a delightfully-bluegrass take on “Would You Catch a Falling Star” and Lucinda Williams shared a favorite of hers, “Wild and Blue.”
Bobby Braddock, John Anderson and Kyle Young pose onstage Class of 2024 Medallion Ceremony. Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images for Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Anderson’s medallion was presented by Country Music Hall of Fame member Bobby Braddock, who shared funny stories about working with the fellow Floridian and commented on his dedication to making his own way in the music industry.
Anderson was emotional and full of gratitude when he stepped up to the podium. He thanked everyone in his village, from his family to friends, band members, business partners and even the doctors who take care of him.
“I can’t say how much this means to me. For an old boy, who took off from his hometown with a guitar and $40, it’s been a long and winding road,” Anderson said. “It’s one of the greatest honors that anybody in our profession could ever have, to be on this stage. I want to thank the good Lord up above for giving me a love of music that has sustained me and kept me living, dreaming and working. I hope I never have to quit.”
Post Malone performs at the Class of 2024 Medallion Ceremony. Photo: Terry Wyatt/Getty Images for Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Next, it was time to honor Toby Keith. His video highlighted the Oklahoma native’s consistency as a hit-maker for his nearly 30-year career. Between 1993 and his death in 2024, Keith notched 42 top 10 country hits and 20 chart-toppers, and he sold more than 40 million records. His expertise as a songwriter was frequently underlined, with most of his material being written or co-written. His propensity for the tough, tender and humorous side of life yielded such hits as “As Good as I Once Was,” “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue” and “Hope on the Rocks.” Keith’s patriotism was also celebrated. A savvy businessman, he launched his own successful record label and publishing company.
Post Malone thrilled the CMA Theater with the first performance honoring Keith. He humbly took on “I’m Just Talkin’ About Tonight,” sharing his love for the icon throughout the performance. Eric Church then appeared and did a beautifully touching cover of “Don’t Let The Old Man In” and Blake Shelton wrapped it up with a delightful mash-up of “I Love This Bar” and “Red Solo Cup,” which turned into a full-hearted sing-along.
Tricia Covel and Randy Owen at the Class of 2024 Medallion Ceremony. Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images for Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Hall of Fame member Randy Owen gave the Medallion presentation, sharing emotional words about how much love Keith shared for the Alabama group.
Keith’s widow Tricia Covel shared words about her husband in his honor. She did a beautiful job, letting the crowd in on his dedication to songwriting, to the troops, his family and resisting to play the Nashville game and sticking to his guns. The crowd supported her, wiping tears from their eyes.
“Thank you to the Country Music Hall of Fame for honoring him with this induction. He didn’t get the chance to hear the news that he had been inducted,” Covel said with a soft cry. “I have a feeling, in his words, he thought ‘I shoulda been.’ Toby, we know you know—you are in the Country Music Hall of Fame.”
Brad Paisley performs at the Class of 2024 Medallion Ceremony. Photo: Terry Wyatt/Getty Images for Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Finally, it was time to honor James Burton. The guitar slinger’s impact on musicians, regardless of genre, was made clear in his career video. By age 14, Burton counted himself as a Louisiana Hayride staff musician and created the memorable guitar lick for “Susie-Q” by Dale Hawkins. He then impressed a young star on the rise, Ricky Nelson, and joined his band where he crafted influential rockabilly licks and solos on more than 40 hits. As an in-demand studio picker, he played on records for artists ranging from Merle Haggard to the Beach Boys. He then led Country Music Hall of Fame member Elvis Presley’s band from 1969 to 1977, followed by stints backing John Denver, Country Music Hall of Fame member Emmylou Harris and others in bands and on records.
To honor him, Elvis Costello and John Jorgenson rocked out on “Believe What You Say.” Brad Paisley, who commended Burton for making Paisley guitars cool, showed off his skills with “Workin’ Man Blues.” Country Music Hall of Fame members Vince Gill and Emmylou Harris along with Rodney Crowell shared their admiration with “Til I Gain Control Again,” and then Gill and Harris reappeared with none other than Keith Richards for a infectiously fun performance of “I Can’t Dance.”
Emmylou Harris, Keith Richards and Vince Gill perform at the Class of 2024 Medallion Ceremony. Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images for Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Gill had the honor of presenting Burton’s Medallion. He told funny stories about Burton, and also emotionally shared how much working with the guitar hero has meant to him.
Burton approached the podium with two of his grandchildren. He kept it short and sweet, sharing his shock and gratitude for the honor.
“All the guys I worked with are my heroes. Thank you God for giving me a small part to be with these people,” Burton said. “I’m so honored.”
The ceremony concluded with a performance of “Will the Circle Be Unbroken,” led by Country Music Hall of Fame member Tanya Tucker.
The Medallion All-Star Band consisted of Jen Gunderman (keyboards), Tania Hancheroff (vocals), Mike Johnson (steel guitar), Rachel Loy (bass), Jeff King (electric guitar), Jerry Pentecost (drums), Deanie Richardson (fiddle and mandolin), Mica Roberts (vocals), Biff Watson (bandleader and acoustic guitar) and Charlie Worsham (acoustic guitar, banjo and vocals).
‘You Got Gold’ Event Raises $300K For Hurricane Helene Disaster Relief
/by Lorie HollabaughPhoto: Catherine Powell for the Ryman
The Prine Family and the Hello In There Foundation’s 2024 “You Got Gold: Celebrating the Songs of John Prine” event raised $300,000 to support disaster relief in the wake of Hurricane Helene.
The benefit series took place Oct. 9-12, and featured shows at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum’s CMA Theater (Oct. 11), The Basement East (Oct. 10, Prine’s birthday) and the Ryman (Oct. 9), along with an array of daytime community events.
Pictured (L-R): Jack Prine, Fiona Prine, Tommy Prine and Jody Whelan. Photo: Emma Delevante for You Got Gold
Performers for this year’s Ryman event included Jackson Browne, Rosanne Cash, Patti Griffin, SG Goodman and more. The Basement East show featured tribute performances by Jesse Welles, Gabe Lee, Kaitlin Butts and others. The finale, at the CMA Theater at the Country Music Hall of Fame, included Elizabeth Cook, Amanda Shires, Billy Ray Cyrus, Buddy Miller and Shawn Colvin, Kathy Mattea and more.
“We are continually floored by the generosity of John’s fans. For the past three years, this community has gathered together to celebrate John’s music and legacy and this year was no different,” says Fiona Prine. “We are so grateful for the continued support and contributions made on behalf of John, and we are so fortunate to be able to help so many people in need through the great work of the Hello In There Foundation.”
A portion of the funds will directly benefit individuals who have experienced significant loss due to Hurricanes Helene and Milton, including low-income families with children and hospitality workers who have lost wages in the Gulfport, Florida area, where the Prine family has maintained a home for decades.
Additional organizational grants will be made to local and regionally-based organizations doing on-the-ground work in the Southeast, particularly in the hardest hit areas of east Tennessee, western North Carolina and the Gulfport area of Florida, to assist those most impacted by the storm. 100% of net proceeds from You Got Gold, including ticket and merch sales along with all donations, will benefit disaster relief. The foundation will continue actively directing funds toward these efforts through the end of the year, and donations can be made by visiting thehellointherefoundation.org.
Post Malone Weaves Genres Together At Career-Defining Show
/by Madison HahnenPost Malone performs onstage at his his F-1 Trillion Tour. Photo: Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for Live Nation
Culminating his whirlwind year, Post Malone hit the stage at Nissan Stadium on Saturday night (Oct. 19) for an unforgettable, sold-out show, marking his first NFL stadium concert.
With the sun already set and fans ready to go, country-rock singer Dan Spencer took the stage to warm up the crowd, beginning with “Weepin’ Weekend.” Spencer continued to rock out with originals such as “Eternal Platitude,” “Fat Vampire” and “Tennessee Buddha.” After thanking Post for allowing him to open, he closed up with “Coffee Shop Cowboy Blues.”
Fans were then treated to a stunning set from country duo Muscadine Bloodline. Kicking off their high energy performance with “Rattlesnake Ridge” and “Weyerhaeuser Land,” the two had fans clapping along from the start. After encouraging everyone to “sit back, relax and enjoy the show,” they continued the party with “Dyin’ For A Livin’” before slowing it down for their first-ever RIAA Platinum hit “Porch Swing Angel,” where a sea of cellphone lights illuminated the stadium.
Gary Stanton of the duo then started to add some old school sounds in, pulling out a harmonica for “Mary Riley” and “Earle Byrd From Mexia,” breaking the stadium out into the ultimate jam session. The duo slowed it down once more for emotional “10-90,” before taking the crowd to Monroe County, Alabama performing their high energy “Devil Died In Dixie.” Stanton and Charlie Muncaster took the crowd back in time with the first song they ever wrote together “Ginny,” before closing the set with “Me On You.”
As everyone was waiting for the man of the hour to take the stage, there was a sense of unity felt around the crowd. Whether you were a fan of his hip-hop hits or an avid listener of his country F-1 Trillion album, everyone was there to see the superstar perform a decade of music. Starting the night off with “Wrong Ones,” Post instantly made the crowd feel welcome. Fireworks and sparkler display lit up the sky throughout the tune, and continued throughout the night. After finishing “Finer Things,” Nashville welcomed him with a “Posty” chant, making the singer, and fans, feel emotional already.
Post shared that it was his first NFL stadium show, and then took the crowd back to 2019 with “Circles,” before switching back to country with “What Don’t Belong To Me.” While taking in everything that was happening, he continued to express his gratitude to every person in the audience, bringing his emotions to the forefront again. He then continued the hits with “Guy For That.”
After a stellar vocal performance of “Chemical,” Post brought the honky-tonk vibes with “California Sober” and “M-E-X-I-C-O,” spotting some fans doing the letter dance to the latter. After taking the time to introduce his band on stage and singing happy birthday to one of them, Post electrified the stage with “Candy Paint.”
“I want to treat you guys to a special cover tonight,” Post stated as applause was still roaring. “I want to honor someone who made me want to come to Nashville and make music.” He got the stadium roaring for the late Toby Keith before acoustically covering his “What I Didn’t Know Then.”
In a special moment, Post invited his fan Winter onto the stage. The superstar gave Winter a guitar at a show last year, and since then, Winter had been practicing his song “Stay.” Post gave Winter a seat and a guitar, and the two flawlessly performed the track together. You could hear a pin drop in the audience.
With everyone in the audience captivated by his every move, Post performed a three-track run of some of his biggest hits, including “I Fall Apart,” “Better Now” and “Psycho,” where fire and flashing lights punctuated the moments, adding to the star’s incredible performances. He then switched back to F-1 Trillion’s “Dead At The Honky Tonk.”
“We’d like to dedicate this next song to anyone out there who feels like even when in a crowded room, you’re all by yourself. I just want to let you know, keep rocking, keep rolling, keep being yourself and if you’re a loser, welcome to the show,” Post shared before going into “Losers.”
“I remember sitting on my bed when I was a kid and trying to learn chords, learn how to make beats and how to be a musician,” began an emotional Post. “I sat down on the edge of my bed and said, ‘one of these days I’m going to be a musician.’ Thanks to y’all, we made it happen.”
After the cheers of the crowd swept through the stadium, he than began to talk about his family, including his three-year-old daughter, whom he wrote the next tune for. After shouting out all the parents in the crowd, Post captured everyone’s heart with “Yours,” before turning the dial back up with “White Iverson.”
With the bevy of Nashville stars on his album, fans were eagerly wondering if anyone was going to join Post for the party. Just in time, he welcomed Blake Shelton out onto the stage to perform their hit “Pour Me A Drink.”
To continue honoring Nashville stars, he covered Brad Paisley‘s “I’m Gonna Miss Her,” before firing up the crowd with “Go To Hell.” As soon as the notes started for the next track, excitement filled the stadium as Post sang his recording-breaking hit “I Had Some Help,” closing the country chapter of the night.
As the set began winding down, there was still more to give. After an enthralling performance of “Rockstar,” Post wanted to share one more note of encouragement with his fans.
“It seems like a lot of the time, you look around in this world and there’s not enough love,” he began. “To anyone who feels like they’re alone, you are not alone. You rock so much and no one on this planet can tell you what to do with this life. It does not matter what you want to do in this world, do it the best you can, do it the hardest you can, because no one can stop you from living your dreams.”
After filling their hearts with hope and gratitude, Post gave fans the ultimate closing of the show with “Congratulations” and “Sunflower.”
The “F-1 Trillion Tour” will wrap up this week in Post’s home state of Texas with two shows in Houston and two shows in Austin.
Women’s Music Business Association Opens Applications For Class Of 2025
/by LB CantrellThe Women’s Music Business Association (WMBA) is now accepting applications for its Class of 2025. The organization provides members with education, networking, industry involvement and community service opportunities designed to empower women and help them thrive in the dynamic music landscape.
Applications, as well as at least one letter of recommendation, are due by 11:59 p.m. CDT on Nov. 15. The WMBA Board of Officers will review all submissions during their November meeting, with applicants being notified of their membership status by the middle of the month.
To be eligible, applicants must have full-time employment in the music industry for at least one year prior to the deadline and they must earn the majority of their income from a music-related job. Singer-songwriter applicants are required to be affiliated with a PRO.
Membership is valid for one calendar year, spanning from Jan. 1 to Dec. 31, 2025.
Access the application here.
WME Signs Zach Meadows
/by Liza AndersonPictured (L–R): WME’s Alex Sera, Alex Collignon, Hayley Riddle, Zach Meadows, Torrez Music Group’s Alex Torrez and Emily Vincent. Photo: Courtesy of WME
WME has signed Zach Meadows for exclusive representation.
The singer-songwriter released his debut album, Road To Nowhere, in August and just wrapped a run on the road with Amble. He also plans to join Braxton Keith on tour next month. A Florida native who now resides in Nashville, Meadows spent years honing his craft in Asheville, North Carolina, and recently participated in the Blue Ridge Recovery Benefit to raise money for Hurricane Helene relief efforts.
“I’m so incredibly thankful to have partnered with WME. Since moving to Nashville, I’ve dreamed of the opportunity to reach a larger audience with my music,” he shares. “Performing live will always be what drives me in this industry, and I couldn’t imagine doing it with a team better than this.”
“Zach is an incredible storyteller and musician with a captivating voice that melds classic folk with rock & roll,” says Hayley Riddle, WME Agent. “I could not be more excited to welcome him to the WME Roster.”
Musician Gabe Lee was the one who introduced managers Alex Torrez and Emily Vincent of Torrez Music Group to Meadows’ music, and they recall instantly feeling as though he was bound for a wider stage.
“It’s always such an honor to be recognized by a major force in the agency world like WME, much less get invited to join the team,” expresses Torrez. “Thank you, Hayley Riddle, for believing in the incredible talent that is Zach Meadows.”
Crowe Boys Sign With UMG Nashville
/by Madison HahnenPictured (L–R): C3 Management’s Drew Carey, Ocie Crowe, UMG Nashville’s Cindy Mabe, C3 Management’s Morgan Young and Wes Crowe. Photo: Courtesy of UMG Nashville
Country-folk duo Crowe Boys have signed with UMG Nashville.
Comprised of brothers Ocie and Wes Crowe, the New Orleans natives grew up playing country music across the nation with their family. Now, they are developing their own sound that is reminiscent of adventure and honest about life and hardships. Their tunes explore themes of loss, falling in love and the joys of becoming a parent. The brothers intend to spread hope and positivity through their music.
“When I first heard Crowe Boys, I knew I had to work with them,” shares Cindy Mabe, UMG Nashville Chair & CEO. “The emotional connection between brothers Ocie and Wes and the life they have lived pours from their souls, their harmonies and their lyrics to create something so powerful that you know they are here to heal people. Their story and sound were built on the road for their entire lives, and you can feel how much their family and their story and their struggle has brought them to forefront right now. I’m incredibly moved and honored to have them join our UMG Nashville family.”
The duo will release their first tune on the label, “Let Me Feel Alone,” written solely by Ocie, on Nov. 8. Additionally, they plan to finish out the year supporting David Shaw, before joining Morgan Wade on select dates in early 2025. The pair also has headlining dates scheduled in Tuscaloosa, Alabama and Covington, Louisiana next month.
Ryan Larkins Wraps Big Year With New EP ‘Bones’
/by Lorie HollabaughRyan Larkins has released his latest EP, Bones, available everywhere now.
The four-track collection includes previously-released tracks, “Bones” and “Home State,” in addition to two new favorites, “Here For a Reason” and “Buzzin.” Producers on the project include Paul Sikes, Seth Mosely, Brad Hill and Connie Harrington.
“I can’t believe what a life-changing year this has been,” says Larkins. “To close it out with my project, Bones, means the world to me. I hope folks enjoy listening to these songs as much as I enjoyed bringing them to life!”
Larkins’ breakout year has included debut ACM and CMA nominations for Song of the Year, receiving MusicRow‘s 2024 Breakthrough Songwriter of the Year award, winning NSAI’s 2024 Song of the Year award and stepping onto the Grand Ole Opry stage for the very first time, all within the last six months.
Preceding the release of Bones, Ryan delivered a surprise track—the classic hymn “Blessed Assurance”—to aid those affected by the devastation of Hurricane Helene. All proceeds from his acoustic take on the song will be donated to the Mountain Ways organization, whose mission is to provide ongoing disaster relief across East Tennessee and the greater Appalachian region.
Tucker Wetmore Visits Montana Tech As Part Of Spotify’s RADAR Program
/by Liza AndersonTucker Wetmore visiting Montana Tech as a part of Spotify’s RADAR program. Photo: Courtesy of Spotify
Tucker Wetmore visited his alma mater, Montana Tech, last week for a special Q&A and meet-and-greet with select fans on campus as a part of Spotify’s RADAR program for emerging talent.
During his visit, the newest RADAR artist spent time with current players of the university’s football team and Coach Doug Schleeman, took pictures in the locker room and enjoyed quality time with mentors. Later, he gave a live acoustic performance to a crowd off campus at Slainte Butte America Pub. The event served as the latest extension of the program, which seeks to engage students on university and college campuses.
“I’m so grateful to Spotify’s RADAR program for making this whole day possible,” shared Wetmore. “I told them I wanted to go back to Butte and Montana Tech, and Spotify said ‘Well let’s go!’ It feels like an eternity since being here, especially with how my music has taken off recently, but being back on campus makes me think about my younger self. I’d tell him that if football doesn’t work out, you’ll still be alright. I’m so happy I found my path making music and doing what I love.”
Additionally, he recently released a rendition of single “Silverado Blue” for Spotify’s RADAR Sessions.
Taylor Phillips Re-Enters MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart Top 10
/by Madison HahnenTaylor Phillips
Taylor Phillips has re-entered the MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart, sitting at No. 7 this week. “Fix What You Didn’t Break,” “I Am Not Okay,” “Liar” and “This Town’s Been Too Good To Us” all helped the songwriter jump five spots.
Zach Bryan remains in the No. 1 spot for the seventh consecutive week with “28,” “American Nights” and “Pink Skies.” Chris Stapleton stays at No. 2 with “Think I’m In Love With You.”
Ashley Gorley (No. 3), Riley Green (No. 4) and Jessie Jo Dillon (No. 5) round out this week’s top five.
The weekly MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart uses algorithms based upon song activity according to airplay, digital download track sales and streams. This unique and exclusive addition to the MusicRow portfolio is the only songwriter chart of its kind.
Click here to view the full MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart.
Justin Moore Nabs 13th Chart-Topper With ‘This Is My Dirt’
/by Lorie HollabaughJustin Moore. Photo: Cody Villalobos
Justin Moore has made his 13th trip to the top of the charts with his single, “This Is My Dirt,” the title track of his latest album.
The song reached the top spot on the Country Mediabase chart, and also topped the Country Aircheck Chart and is at No. 4 on Billboard Country Airplay. Moore co-wrote “This Is My Dirt” with frequent collaborators Paul DiGiovanni, Randy Montana and Jeremy Stover. The song marks the second No. 1 co-written by Moore alongside DiGiovanni, Montana and Stover—the group’s first was the 2021 No. 1 “With A Woman You Love.”
Moore recently did a show at the Walmart AMP in his home state of Arkansas, where he donated all of the proceeds from the night to the NIL program for the University of Arkansas. He also invited former Razorback and retired NFL running back Darren McFadden on stage to “call the hogs” during the fun.
Country Music Hall Of Fame Inducts John Anderson, James Burton & Toby Keith
/by LB CantrellPictured (L-R): John Anderson, James Burton and Tricia Covel attend the Class of 2024 Medallion Ceremony at Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Photo: Terry Wyatt/Getty Images for Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Three more outstanding record-makers were added to the historic Country Music Hall of Fame last night (Oct. 20) during a star-studded Medallion Ceremony in the Hall’s CMA Theater. John Anderson, James Burton and Toby Keith became the 153rd, 154th and 155th members of the esteemed institution.
CEO of Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, Kyle Young speaks onstage at Class of 2024 Medallion Ceremony. Photo: Terry Wyatt/Getty Images for Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Each inductee was honored with heartfelt remarks and performances of some of their enduring songs. The Hall of Fame’s CEO Kyle Young welcomed the crowd of supporters and industry member’s with a Merle Haggard recording from the museum’s archive, as each inductee had a personal connection to Haggard.
Young recognized the Hall of Fame members who had been lost since last year’s ceremony, including Keith, Kris Kristofferson and Joe Bonsall. He also welcomed the Hall’s Circle Guard, including Board chair Jody Williams, who spoke, as well as the Hall of Fame members who were in attendance to support the new additions to the family.
CMA CEO Sarah Trahern shared a few words about giving the news to the inductees, and spoke about finding out that Keith had been selected for induction the day that the news broke that he had passed.
Del McCoury Band performs onstage at the Class of 2024 Medallion Ceremony. Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images for Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
John Anderson was the first to be heralded. A career video recounted his journey from Apopka, Florida to Nashville, where he made a mark with his unique vocal stylings. Influenced by Country Music Hall of Fame members Lefty Frizzell, Merle Haggard and George Jones as well as Levon Helm of the Band, Anderson fashioned his own breathy, note-bending vocal approach, and created iconic country hits like “Seminole Wind,” “Straight Tequila Night” and his top-selling “Swingin.” Between 1981 and 1995, Anderson notched 20 top 10 country singles and five No. 1 hits.
To honor him, Shawn Camp lended his voice to Anderson’s “I Just Came Home to Count the Memories,” the Del McCoury Band thrilled with a delightfully-bluegrass take on “Would You Catch a Falling Star” and Lucinda Williams shared a favorite of hers, “Wild and Blue.”
Bobby Braddock, John Anderson and Kyle Young pose onstage Class of 2024 Medallion Ceremony. Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images for Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Anderson’s medallion was presented by Country Music Hall of Fame member Bobby Braddock, who shared funny stories about working with the fellow Floridian and commented on his dedication to making his own way in the music industry.
Anderson was emotional and full of gratitude when he stepped up to the podium. He thanked everyone in his village, from his family to friends, band members, business partners and even the doctors who take care of him.
“I can’t say how much this means to me. For an old boy, who took off from his hometown with a guitar and $40, it’s been a long and winding road,” Anderson said. “It’s one of the greatest honors that anybody in our profession could ever have, to be on this stage. I want to thank the good Lord up above for giving me a love of music that has sustained me and kept me living, dreaming and working. I hope I never have to quit.”
Post Malone performs at the Class of 2024 Medallion Ceremony. Photo: Terry Wyatt/Getty Images for Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Next, it was time to honor Toby Keith. His video highlighted the Oklahoma native’s consistency as a hit-maker for his nearly 30-year career. Between 1993 and his death in 2024, Keith notched 42 top 10 country hits and 20 chart-toppers, and he sold more than 40 million records. His expertise as a songwriter was frequently underlined, with most of his material being written or co-written. His propensity for the tough, tender and humorous side of life yielded such hits as “As Good as I Once Was,” “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue” and “Hope on the Rocks.” Keith’s patriotism was also celebrated. A savvy businessman, he launched his own successful record label and publishing company.
Post Malone thrilled the CMA Theater with the first performance honoring Keith. He humbly took on “I’m Just Talkin’ About Tonight,” sharing his love for the icon throughout the performance. Eric Church then appeared and did a beautifully touching cover of “Don’t Let The Old Man In” and Blake Shelton wrapped it up with a delightful mash-up of “I Love This Bar” and “Red Solo Cup,” which turned into a full-hearted sing-along.
Tricia Covel and Randy Owen at the Class of 2024 Medallion Ceremony. Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images for Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Hall of Fame member Randy Owen gave the Medallion presentation, sharing emotional words about how much love Keith shared for the Alabama group.
Keith’s widow Tricia Covel shared words about her husband in his honor. She did a beautiful job, letting the crowd in on his dedication to songwriting, to the troops, his family and resisting to play the Nashville game and sticking to his guns. The crowd supported her, wiping tears from their eyes.
“Thank you to the Country Music Hall of Fame for honoring him with this induction. He didn’t get the chance to hear the news that he had been inducted,” Covel said with a soft cry. “I have a feeling, in his words, he thought ‘I shoulda been.’ Toby, we know you know—you are in the Country Music Hall of Fame.”
Brad Paisley performs at the Class of 2024 Medallion Ceremony. Photo: Terry Wyatt/Getty Images for Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Finally, it was time to honor James Burton. The guitar slinger’s impact on musicians, regardless of genre, was made clear in his career video. By age 14, Burton counted himself as a Louisiana Hayride staff musician and created the memorable guitar lick for “Susie-Q” by Dale Hawkins. He then impressed a young star on the rise, Ricky Nelson, and joined his band where he crafted influential rockabilly licks and solos on more than 40 hits. As an in-demand studio picker, he played on records for artists ranging from Merle Haggard to the Beach Boys. He then led Country Music Hall of Fame member Elvis Presley’s band from 1969 to 1977, followed by stints backing John Denver, Country Music Hall of Fame member Emmylou Harris and others in bands and on records.
To honor him, Elvis Costello and John Jorgenson rocked out on “Believe What You Say.” Brad Paisley, who commended Burton for making Paisley guitars cool, showed off his skills with “Workin’ Man Blues.” Country Music Hall of Fame members Vince Gill and Emmylou Harris along with Rodney Crowell shared their admiration with “Til I Gain Control Again,” and then Gill and Harris reappeared with none other than Keith Richards for a infectiously fun performance of “I Can’t Dance.”
Emmylou Harris, Keith Richards and Vince Gill perform at the Class of 2024 Medallion Ceremony. Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images for Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Gill had the honor of presenting Burton’s Medallion. He told funny stories about Burton, and also emotionally shared how much working with the guitar hero has meant to him.
Burton approached the podium with two of his grandchildren. He kept it short and sweet, sharing his shock and gratitude for the honor.
“All the guys I worked with are my heroes. Thank you God for giving me a small part to be with these people,” Burton said. “I’m so honored.”
The ceremony concluded with a performance of “Will the Circle Be Unbroken,” led by Country Music Hall of Fame member Tanya Tucker.
The Medallion All-Star Band consisted of Jen Gunderman (keyboards), Tania Hancheroff (vocals), Mike Johnson (steel guitar), Rachel Loy (bass), Jeff King (electric guitar), Jerry Pentecost (drums), Deanie Richardson (fiddle and mandolin), Mica Roberts (vocals), Biff Watson (bandleader and acoustic guitar) and Charlie Worsham (acoustic guitar, banjo and vocals).