Ep 15. Acl Hall Of Fame: The First Six Years

ACL Hall Of Fame: The First Six Years is a special episode of the long-running music show Austin City Limits, celebrating the induction of the first batch of artists into the Austin City Limits Hall of Fame. The Hall of Fame was established in 2014 to honor performers who have made significant contributions to the ACL legacy, and this episode highlights the first six years of inductees.

The episode features a mix of performances, speeches, and interviews, with footage filmed at the ACL Hall of Fame ceremony in October 2019. The show kicks off with a rousing performance by Willie Nelson, who was inducted into the inaugural class of inductees in 2014. The legendary country singer performs his classic song "Whiskey River," accompanied by a full band and backup singers.

Throughout the show, several other inductees are showcased, including Stevie Ray Vaughan, Buddy Guy, Bonnie Raitt, and Los Lobos. Each artist is given a moment to shine, with performances of some of their most iconic songs. Stevie Ray Vaughan's brother Jimmie Vaughan takes the stage to pay tribute to his late brother and perform one of his hits, "Texas Flood." Buddy Guy delivers an electrifying rendition of "Damn Right, I've Got The Blues," complete with a scorching guitar solo.

Bonnie Raitt, one of the most respected female musicians of all time, performs a soulful rendition of her hit "I Can't Make You Love Me," accompanied by a string section. Los Lobos, the influential Chicano rock band, perform a spirited version of their hit "La Bamba." The performances are interspersed with interviews with the artists, who reflect on the significance of being inducted into the Hall of Fame and what Austin City Limits means to them.

The episode also features a special tribute to the late B.B. King, who was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2016, just months before his death. The tribute includes footage of King's 1983 performance on Austin City Limits, as well as interviews with his daughter and fellow musicians who pay homage to the blues legend.

One of the most unique aspects of the Austin City Limits Hall of Fame is that non-performing contributors are also honored. In this episode, the production team behind Austin City Limits is recognized for their contributions to the show's success. The team includes longtime director Gary Menotti, who retired in 2019 after 24 years at the helm of the show, and executive producer Terry Lickona, who has been with the show since its inception in 1974.

ACL Hall Of Fame: The First Six Years is a fitting tribute to the rich history and legacy of Austin City Limits, one of the most iconic music shows in television history. Through its celebration of some of the most important and influential musicians of our time, as well as the production team who have brought the show to life for over four decades, this episode highlights the magic and majesty of Austin City Limits. Fans of great music and television alike won't want to miss this special episode.