Sonny James, George Strait and Harold Bradley are the well deserving people being inducted into the prestigious Country Music Hall of Fame this year.

Being inducted into the “Career Achieved National Prominence Between World War II and 1975 is Sonny James. Sonny hit the country charts in 1953 and continued to have hits until the mid-1970’s. Some of his hits have been That’s Me Without You, You’re the Only World I Know and Young Love. From 1964 to 1972 he had a major number streak going, 21 of 25 singles released went to the top of the country charts with a few crossing over to the pop charts too. The secret to Sonny’s success was taking pop songs and making them over for the country audience. He semi retired from recording in the mid 70’s and began producing. He had some success producing three of Marie Osmond’s albums. He retired from the music business in 1983 after a 40 year career and now lives in Alabama raising cattle.

Being inducted into the relatively new category (this is only the second year for this category) of “Career Achieved National Prominence Between 1975 and the Present” is George Strait. George came onto the scene in the early 80’s and hasn’t looked back. He consistently hits number one with his songs. He and his Ace in the Hole band have stayed close to their roots and not strayed too far from the traditional sound that has made them the success they are today. George has done well with over 50 number ones to his credit to date. He still resides in Texas where he was born and raised with his brothers on the family ranch. He stays busy off the road by competing in team roping.

Being inducted into the category of “Recording and/or Touring Musician Active Prior to 1980” (awarded every third year) is Harold Bradley. Harold is someone you have probably heard but don’t know it, he has been reported to be the most recorded guitar player in history. Harold has worked with such greats as Elvis, Patsy Cline and Willie Nelson in the studio. His career has lasted over 50 years. He and his brother, Owen, have been credited with bringing a recording industry to Nashville where there wasn’t one before and helping to shape Nashville into what it is today.

Congratulations to these three deserving inductees!