2025 Mississippi Songwriters Hall of Fame Inductees
Danny Myrick, born on August 3, 1964, in Laurel, Mississippi, has enjoyed a long and productive career as both a performer and a songwriter, from his gospel roots growing up in Mississippi to successfully writing or co-writing songs recorded by a diverse roster of music artists from several genres. Myrick has been living in Nashville for many years. He is currently working as a writer and/or producer with several incredibly talented artists. Myrick's songwriting credits have led to the sale of millions of records, helping establish him as one of today's most sought-after songwriters.
Howlin' Wolf (June 10, 1910 – January 10, 1976), born Chester Arthur Burnett in White Station, Mississippi. He was an American blues singer, songwriter, and guitarist. He was instrumental in the evolution of electric Chicago blues, and over the course of his career recorded blues, rhythm and blues, and rock and roll. Howlin' Wolf is one of the most influential blues musicians of all time.
John Lee Hooker, a Mississippi-born blues singer, songwriter, and guitarist, rose to prominence by performing an electric guitar style of Delta blues that he developed in Detroit. Historians believe he was born in 1917. This adaptation incorporated a variety of elements, giving Hooker his own driving-rhythm boogie style. His inimitable sound was so good and unusually impossible to copy. Many magazines and music critics have ranked Hooker high on their all-time list of greatest guitarists or blues singers. He became internationally famous after recording hits such as "Boogie Chillen,” “I’m in the Mood,” and “Boom Boom.” Historians believe he was born in 1917. Hooker died in his sleep on June 21, 2001, in his home in Los Altos, California. This legendary and iconic bluesman serves as an inspiration to millions of musicians and music enthusiasts.
Muddy Waters (April 4, 1913 – April 30, 1983) born McKinley Morganfield in the heart of the Mississippi Delta. He was an American blues singer, songwriter and musician who was an important figure in the post-World War II blues scene, and is often cited as the "father of modern Chicago blues."
Join us to honor, remember, and induct the late Scott Stradtner into the Mississippi Songwriters Alliance Hall of Fame. He wore many hats of admiration including salesman, business owner, umpire, and dear friend to many. Scott was also High School Umpire, Member of the East Central Civic Association Board of Directors for the George County Pee Wee Football League. He served as a Board of Director for the Mississippi Songwriters Alliance and played a major role in the Mississippi Songwriters Festival including the voice and hosts of many previous Hall of Fame Ceremonies and Emcee for the Festival.
Muddy Waters (April 4, 1913 – April 30, 1983) born McKinley Morganfield in the heart of the Mississippi Delta. He was an American blues singer, songwriter and musician who was an important figure in the post-World War II blues scene, and is often cited as the "father of modern Chicago blues."
Glen Ballard (born May 1, 1953) is an American songwriter, lyricist, and record producer, born in Natchez, Mississippi. He is well known for his work co-writing and producing Alanis Morissette, Wilson Phillips, and many others. He also co-wrote Michael Jackson's "Man in the Mirror."