The ceremony, hosted by Grand Ole Opry star Mandy Barnett and respected radio/TV personality Kelly Sutton, carried a reverent tone as it honored the late Jeannie Seely, a longtime host and past inductee. Industry professionals, artists, producers, songwriters, and family members gathered to witness this notable moment in the organization’s 22nd anniversary year of Hall of Fame Awards.
Founded in 1991 by Shelia Shipley Biddy, Judy Harris, and Pat Rolfe, SOURCE stands as Nashville’s longest-running women’s music industry organization. The Hall of Fame Awards, established by Kay Smith in 2003, specifically recognize women who have shaped Nashville’s music business landscape through their dedication and influence.
The inductees had previously been celebrated at a special luncheon event earlier in May 2025, marking the beginning of their recognition journey. SOURCE’s mission extends beyond awards, fostering education, networking, relationships, and community service through bi-monthly luncheons and annual ceremonies that strengthen Nashville’s music business ecosystem.
This year’s ceremony took place in late August during a major Nashville music calendar event, distinguishing itself from other recognition programs like the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame. The event celebrated six exceptional women – Lori Badgett, Cheryl Harris, Gina Keltner, Pam Russell, Mary Self, and Kay West – who were inducted for their significant industry contributions. While the latter celebrates songwriting achievements with induction ceremonies scheduled for October 6 at the Music City Center, SOURCE specifically honors women’s behind-the-scenes industry impact.
The Historic Municipal Auditorium venue, serving as an important cultural landmark, provided the perfect backdrop for this celebration of legacy and influence. Many inductees have played crucial roles in helping artists navigate performance rights organizations to ensure proper royalty collection throughout their careers.
Though longtime co-host Brenda Lee was unable to attend, her contributions were acknowledged alongside the achievements of the six remarkable women whose careers have notably shaped Nashville’s vibrant music community for decades. Many inductees have pioneered strategies for artists to establish diverse income streams in the constantly evolving music business landscape.
