Country Music HOF Inducts Dillon, Stuart, Hank, Jr.
• The Country Music Association is honored to announce the 2020 inductees for the Country Music Hall of Fame — Dean Dillon, Marty Stuart and Hank Williams Jr. Dillon (left) will be inducted in the “Songwriter” category, Stuart (center) will be inducted in the “Modern Era Artist” category and Hank, Jr. (right) will be inducted in the “Veterans Era Artist” category. The Songwriter category is recognized every third year in rotation with the “Recording and/or Touring Musician” and “Non-Performer” categories.
“I couldn’t be more thrilled to welcome Dean, Marty and Hank Jr. into the unbroken circle and honor this revered milestone,” says Sarah Trahern, CMA CEO. “I’m sad we can’t toast this year’s class in person at the Country Music Hall of Fame, but I hope this news can bring some joy and cause for celebration during this time that our world has turned upside down. In particular, our hearts are with Hank and his family following the recent loss of his daughter, Katherine.”
The three inductees were understandably elated — “I was just speechless,” said Dillon. “Trying to soak in the words that I had just heard. My life flashed before my eyes. You could’ve knocked me over with a feather.” Stuart said, “It’s the ultimate honor in Country Music. I’m so honored to be included in this class and I’m honored to be included alongside Hank Jr. and Dean Dillon. I love those people. To be officially inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame is beyond words. I’m usually not at a loss for words.”
Williams remarked, “Bocephus has been eyeing this one for awhile. It’s a bright spot during a difficult year. I’ve 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’s much appreciated.”
Details regarding a formal induction ceremony for Dillon, Stuart and Williams will be released as information is available. Since 2007, the Museum’s Medallion Ceremony, an annual reunion of the Hall of Fame membership, has served as the official rite of induction for new members. [Dean Dillon photo courtesy of Dean Dillon; Marty Stuart & Hank Jr. photos: David McClister]
