ACM Honors Country's Legends & Leaders

Dolly Parton

June 13, 2007 — The Academy of Country Music will celebrate the careers of Harlan Howard, Waylon Jennings, Jack Lameier, Buck Owens, Dolly Parton and Don Williams at a special evening hosted by Marty Stuart on Wednesday, June 20, at the Tennessee State Museum in Nashville.

Harlan, Waylon, Dolly and Don will receive the Cliffie Stone Pioneer Award, presented to an outstanding pioneer of country music. Harlan is one of the most influential composers in country music with more than 4,000 songs to his credit. Waylon, known as a renaissance man in country music, crafted a new sound that combined his forceful electric guitar, rough-edged lyrics and diverse range. Dolly, one of the most popular country icons of all time, is also known for breaking down barriers for women and as a philanthropist. Don developed a unique style that showcased his gently paced love songs with simple arrangements, vocals and sentiments.

Buck will be honored with the Jim Reeves International Award, presented to an individual, not necessarily an artist, for outstanding contribution to the acceptance of country music throughout the world. With 26 consecutive hits and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, he exerted a strong influence on country music.

Jack will receive the Mae Boren Axton Award, given in recognition of years of dedication and service by an outstanding individual to the Academy of Country Music. Jack served on the Academy of Country Music Board of Directors for 28 years and was president for two of those years. A radio veteran, his career in music includes more than 40 years at Sony.