The NC Music Hall of Fame observed the Grand
Opening of its new home at 600 Dale Earnhardt Blvd. in Kannapolis this evening. The new location also
serves as home to entertainment and race car enthusiast Mike Curb’s race cars.
His Curb Motorsports has been at the location for several years already, just a
few blocks south of the old NC Music Hall of Fame which was housed in the old
Kannapolis Jail House on West A Street.
This new location; all on one floor and Handicap accessible;
will give more space and light to the museums already burgeoning chest of music
memorabilia. The Hall of Fame has inducted scores of musicians, singers and composers into the
ranks since opening over 5 years ago. And with each artist inducted it has
obtained more items, many of which are being displayed now for the first time.
Imagine how some of the instruments feel; being freed from the confines of
their cases after having travelled so far and wide with their former, storied
owners. “I Saw the Light” by Hank Williams comes immediately to mind.
The heart and soul of this museum really belongs to 2 people
in particular; Eddie Ray, who is the legendary A and R man; and his Assistant
Right hand Veronica Cordle; which makes them both A and R persons. These 2 are a formidable team. He thinks
stuff up and she actually makes it happen.
The Hall of Fame is financed by both a grant from Mike Curb
and funding from the Arts Council of Kannapolis as well as the City. They also
accept donations, as well as hold an annual 5K Race each spring and an
Induction Ceremony every October.
Whether your musical tastes run to James Taylor, or Les
Brown, Victoria Livengood; or even Thelonius Monk; there is something here for
your enjoyment. Even Andy Griffith is here, alongside such contemporaries as
Clay Aiken and Fantasia Barrino. The Museum is open Monday through Fridays
between 10AM and 4PM; and on Saturdays in the mornings only. Group visits are welcome
and are encouraged you to call ahead.
Even if you have been to the Museum at its old location, you
will be amazed at the difference the new layout makes. These few photos don’t
really do it justice. And to those who may be worried that the change in
location might be a detriment; don’t worry. What the new building lacks in
quaintness is more than compensated by the layout and abundance of new
exhibits. Come see for yourself. The following links will be helpful;
For the museum go to;
And, for more about the remarkable Eddie Ray visit his
Wikipedia page at;
Or, to purchase a copy of his autobiography, “Against All
Odds”, go to;
