The Country Music Association (CMA) gathered at the esteemed Rotunda in the Country Music Hall of Fame® and Museum today to reveal the 2025 class of inductees: Tony Brown, June Carter Cash, and Kenny Chesney. These three honorees represent different facets of country music history, each leaving an undeniable mark on the genre.
The Inductees and Their Categories
- Tony Brown enters in the Non-Performer category, which rotates every three years with the Songwriter and Recording and/or Touring Musician categories.
- June Carter Cash is honored in the Veterans Era Artist category for her decades-spanning contributions to country music.
- Kenny Chesney is inducted in the Modern Era Artist category, recognizing his immense influence on contemporary country music.
The announcement was hosted by Country Music Hall of Fame member Vince Gill and streamed live on CMA’s YouTube channel.
Honoring Country Music’s Legacy
CMA Chief Executive Officer Sarah Trahern spoke about the significance of this year’s inductees:
“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.”
Kyle Young, Chief Executive Officer of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, echoed this sentiment:
“All three of the new inductees have left indelible impacts on the genre and firmly established themselves as unforgettable contributors to Country Music.”
Tony Brown: A Visionary Producer and Industry Leader
Tony Brown, a North Carolina native, is widely regarded as a trailblazing producer and executive who played a major role in shaping modern country music. With more than 100 No. 1 hits to his credit, Brown has worked with legends such as George Strait, Reba McEntire, and Vince Gill.
Reflecting on his career, Brown shared:
“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.”
June Carter Cash: A Country Music Pioneer
June Carter Cash’s influence on country music is immeasurable. As a member of the legendary Carter Family, she carried forward their musical legacy while forging her own path as a singer, songwriter, comedienne, and actress. From the 1940s to the early 2000s, she captivated audiences with her humor, storytelling, and heartfelt music.
Her family expressed their gratitude for the honor:
“June Carter Cash represents the whole cloth of Country Music, its breadth and heritage. Her voice has been heard across the country and throughout much of the world. She profoundly respected, and was respected for, her craft, and that endures to this day.”
Kenny Chesney: A Modern Country Icon
With more than 50 Top 10 hits, 16 Platinum albums, and record-breaking tours, Kenny Chesney has been a dominant force in country music since the early 2000s. His high-energy performances and heartfelt storytelling have made him a fan favorite for decades.
Chesney was deeply moved by the induction news:
“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 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.”
A Lasting Legacy
As these three remarkable individuals take their place among country music’s greatest legends, their impact continues to shape the future of the genre. Whether through groundbreaking production, generational storytelling, or unparalleled success in modern country, their contributions will be celebrated for generations to come.
Their official induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame will take place later in 2025, cementing their place in country music history.
