American Music Masters History
In 1996, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum Education Department teamed up with Case Western Reserve University to create American Music Masters, an annual event to celebrate rock and roll's legendary pioneers.
About the Series
Combining star-studded concerts, academic seminars, and educational workshops with interactive forums, American Music Masters stimulates dialogue between students, scholars and fans about these pioneers and presents a unique and exceptional opportunity for participants to uncover the foundations of rock and roll. Since its inception in 1996, the series has attracted the participation of numerous renowned artists. Robert Plant, Alison Krauss, Bruce Springsteen, John Mellencamp, Marshall Crenshaw, the Indigo Girls, Ani DiFranco, Ricky Scaggs, Lynyrd Skynrd, Southside Johnny and Ruth Brown are among those who have paid tribute to their influences.
Past Honorees
Jerry Lee Lewis
2007 Jerry Lee Lewis
2006 Roy Orbison
2005 Sam Cooke
2004 Lead Belly
2003 Buddy Holly
2002 Hank Williams
2001 Bessie Smith*
2000 Muddy Waters
1999 Louis Jordan
1998 Robert Johnson
1997 Jimmie Rodgers
1996 Woody Guthrie
*The 2001 Program was cancelled in deference to the aftermath of 9/11.