Welcome back to Country Music 4 Ever! I’ve often wondered how you become a member of the “Country Music Hall of Fame.” Surprisingly, the hall of fame itself has nothing to do with choosing the newest members. It is all up to the “Country Music Association” (CMA). There are three categories of inductees, the “Modern Era,” which you would be eligible for if you first achieved national prominence 20 years ago. Then there is the “Veteran’s Era,” which you would be eligible for if you first achieved national prominence 45 years ago. And lastly, there is the “Non Performer, Songwriter, and Recording and/or touring musician active prior to 1980 (rotates every three years).

One rule is that if someone dies, they can not be eligible for induction for a year after they pass away. This is a way to avoid sympathy votes. The hall of fame has always been very secretive about induction rules. But in 2013 the rules were published by the hall of fame. Even though they published the rules, they still weren’t very clear about how they choose nominees every year.

I know for a long time people thought Keith Whitley should be a member and he was finally inducted this year. With only three spots per year there will always be people who seem to be overlooked. They eventually get recognized though even if it takes longer than it should.

Thanks for reading, I’ll be back soon!