The Bruce Grey Music Hall of Fame’s induction celebration is returning, after a three-year intermission.
It’s set to take place at the legion in Owen Sound on June 25th.
A release on the hall of fame’s website says 2023 inductees include the late hall of fame founding member Jim Merriam, country singer Jim Beech, the original Tombstones rock and blues band, master guitarist Lloyd Williamson, and the Rainbow Country Band and entertainment promoter, producer and musician, Arnie Clark.
The late Bill Murdoch will also be remembered. He was inducted last September during a concert event held in his memory.
The release says, “The HOF committee has had a lot to swallow over the past several months. First, the Covid pandemic curtailed activities. Then in January 2022, the Hepworth Shallow Lake Legion, which was home to the HOF, was consumed by fire. The early morning blaze destroyed the entire collection of HOF artifacts and displays. Difficult days continued with the passing of retired MPP, Bill Murdoch, who also was co-founder of the HOF and producer of Bognor Jam.”
The Hall of Fame says co-founder and Bognor Jam associate producer, Arnie Clark is, “optimistic the return of an annual Music Hall of Fame celebration will signal a new start.”
Clark says in a statement in the release, “We now have our 2023 Hall of Fame inductees selected and plans are well underway for the induction celebration.” He notes the legion in Owen Sound, and the Grey Bruce community have been very supportive, stating, “Everybody is positive,” and adding, “Many have made significant financial contributions to help with a new home that recognizes our entertainment heroes.”
Meanwhile, the release also says, Sue Murdoch, wife of the late Bill Murdoch now sits as a committee member and is hopeful a new home can be established. She says in a statement, “It was Bill’s wish that a new HOF rise up,” she said. “The Hepworth location was his first choice. We are looking at other options.”
The release says co-hosts for the 2023 induction include radio personalities Ross Kentner and John Christie. It will also feature Kemble Piper Keith Davidson, and Bognor Jam’s Ridge River Ramblers.
The ceremony is set for Sunday, June 25th, 2023. Doors open at 1 p.m. in the legion’s Memorial Auditorium at 1450 2nd Avenue West (519-376-7784). Tickets are $20 and are available at the door, at the Legion office, and at Bayshore Country Feeds.
The HOF says proceeds will go to the revival of the hall of fame, as well as to Branch 6 Owen Sound Legion projects.
