The Country Music Association announced today that Bobby Braddock, Reba McEntire, and Jean Shepard will become the newest members of the Country Music Hall of Fame.
McEntire will be inducted in the "Modern Era Artist" category, while Shepard will be inducted in the "Veterans Era Artist" category. Braddock is the first inductee in the new "Songwriter" category, which is awarded every third year in a rotation with the "Recording and/or Touring Musician" and "Non-Performer" categories.
"We are inducting royalty this year," said Steve Moore, CMA Chief Executive Officer. "Jean and Reba are two of Country Music's most revered queens, and Bobby Braddock is a king of songwriting. All three of them refused to follow the crowd; instead, creating their own unique paths. I cannot imagine what Country Music would be like today without these three talented individuals and all of their accomplishments. They each continue to inspire me with their latest performances, albums, compositions, and productions."
