Hall of Fame for music 'unknowns'

The museum focuses on session players and touring musicians

Music's often unsung backing artists have been honoured with the opening of their own Hall of Fame in Nashville, Tennessee, in the United States.

The venue pays tribute to those who have played and recorded with stars from all fields of music.

It is the idea of Joe Chambers, a local songwriter and guitar store owner.

"The public hasn't been given the information or the opportunity to know who is playing on a lot of those records," Mr Chambers said.

The Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum, located in an old warehouse in the city, holds artefacts including instruments, photos, movies and recordings to tell the story of session players and touring musicians in the US.

Their work on many classic tracks is featured, including the steel guitar on Bob Dylan's Lay Lady Lay and the bass line on Hank Williams' Your Cheatin' Heart.

Displays have been dedicated to legendary producers such as Owen Bradley, who worked with Patsy Cline and Loretta Lynn, and Billy Sherrill, who worked with Tammy Wynette and Charlie Rich.

Musicians' choice

The studios where many classic songs were recorded are also featured.

Mr Chambers said: "It means a lot, obviously, to the families and to anyone who stood in the shadow for so long.

"The way the museum is set up, everyone from grandparents to their grandkids can come and find somebody they're interested in."

Several new members will be inducted into the hall each year based on votes from other musicians rather than industry executives.

The museum also houses a performance hall and screening theatre. A music school associated with the museum has already opened and a fully operating recording studio is planned.