Your 2025 Country Music Hall of Fame inductees are here.
This morning, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum inducted Tony Brown, June Carter Cash, and Kenny Chesney into the Hall of Fame, adding three new members.
Tony Brown, a legendary producer, will be inducted into the Non-Performer category, which is awarded every third year. The Songwriter, Recording, and/or Touring Musician categories are awarded when the Non-Performer category is not in rotation. June Carter Cash will be inducted into the Veterans Era Artist category, and Kenny Chesney will be inducted into the Modern Era Artist category.
This morning, Vince Gill hosted a press conference to announce the inductees to the public. Chesney appeared to speak on how big of an honor it is to be inducted into the Hall of Fame.
Chesney gratefully spoke to the audience and those viewing the CMA live stream:
“It is a big thrill and honor for me knowing that I’m going into the Hall of Fame with three people from East Tennessee. That means the world to me.
I had a really big dream, and I’m still pushing that dream as far as I can. I just wanted to write and record songs that reflected the lives of a lot of people that came to our shows. I just wanted to spread as much positive energy and love as I possibly could.
Standing up there, I know it’s not a dream. It’s real, it feels so real, and I just want to say thank you.”
In a press statement, Chesney adds to the sentiments he shared during the press conference, saying he is honored to stand alongside many country legends who inspired him to pursue music.
“You don’t dare dream of being in the Country Music Hall of Fame, alongside legends including George Jones, Willie Nelson, Alabama, even Dean Dillon. I’ve been lucky enough to get to call them my friends, and that was plenty. But hearing the news I’d been voted into the Hall, I can honestly say beyond my wildest dreams, it’s an honor that defies words.
I am humbled, grateful, honored…as much for all the songwriters, musicians, artists and people who’ve helped me build my career; they have truly inspired me every single day.”
Kenny Chesney is the perfect performer to induct into the Hall of Fame because he embodies putting his whole heart into his career. From scoring his first number one hit in 1977 with “She’s Got It All,” founding the loyal No Shoes Nation fanbase, continually pushing the boundaries of his sound and songwriting, and helping young artists like Taylor Swift and Megan Moroney get their careers off the ground, Chesney is not only a talented performer but also a mentor and fearless leader in the country music space.
Tony Brown, on the other hand, might not be gracing the stage but has been integral to producing the number-one hits that country consumers know and love.
“When you’re producing No.1 records, you feel like you know what you’re doing. But being inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame — especially for someone as idealistic as me —makes it feel like you’ve truly made an impact. And that has always been my goal.”
Lastly, the Cash family thanked the CMA for inducting June Carter Cash and commented on her impact in the country space.
“June Carter Cash represents the whole cloth of Country Music, its breadth and heritage. And June’s place in Country Music is undeniable. From the 1940s, across the decades and into the current century, her voice has been heard across the country and throughout much of the world, both with Mother Maybelle Carter, sisters Helen and Anita, and on her own, as well as with her duet partners, including her beloved Johnny Cash, with whom she told stories and inspired musicians both past, present, and future. She was a loving wife and mother, an actress, singer, songwriter, comedienne, and a truly gifted performer whose persona was never exactly what was expected but was always and totally June.
She profoundly respected, and was respected for, her craft, and that endures to this day. We, the Carter and Cash families, are most grateful and proud that the Country Music Association has given June this well-deserved honor for her undeniable contribution to the fabric of Country Music and American culture.”
In a press statement, Sarah Trahern, CMA Chief Executive Officer, shared that this group of new Hall of Fame members was chosen because of their lasting imprint on the genre and their involvement in country music from a young age.
“This year’s inductees embody the relentless drive and dedication that defines Country Music. Kenny, June and Tony have each left a lasting imprint on the genre, shaping its history with their contributions. From a young age, each of them was immersed in music, and their lifelong commitment has led to this very moment. Their achievements speak to the passion and dedication that have defined their extraordinary careers, and the impact of their work will continue to inspire future generations.
There’s something incredibly special about being able to surprise each inductee or their family with this recognition – it’s one of the most rewarding aspects of my job, knowing how deeply their careers have touched the lives of so many, including myself. It is with great pride that we honor these three remarkable individuals and celebrate the lasting legacy they have created within our format.”
Check out the press conference hosted by Vince Gill before you go. It’s well worth the watch.
