2014 R&B Music Hall of Fame Induction

After nearly ten years as a member of the groundbreaking Harlem Globetrotters, lifelong music fan and the son of a singer, LaMont Robinson hung up his Chuck Taylor All Stars and resumed his passion for collecting R&B music and memorabilia.  In 2010, after amassing more than 5,000 items in his basement such as classic concert posters, rare stage outfits, photographs, documents and other memorabilia from his personal collection along with items from artists and their families, he realized the need to share it with the world.

Since its 2010 inception, the Canton, Ohio based R&B Music Hall of Fame(R&BMHOF) has a focused goal, mission and endeavor; to pay homage to the many architects of R&B,  bestow the living legends their flowers while “they yet live” and  acknowledge the huge significance of R&B music and its’ vast contributions. The Official R&B Music Hall of Fame Museum is recognized as the one and only official institution that honors and memorializes the accomplishments of the many individuals and organizations.

The twenty-five members of  the inaugural class of 2013 reads like an R&B blueprint including the likes of Sam Cooke, Otis Redding, Jackie Wilson, James Brown and Motown royalty such as the Temptations, Supremes and Four Tops. On August 24, 2014, the Official R&B Music Hall of Fame (R&BHOF)  will induct the class of 2014  led by valedictorians,  the ‘King of Pop’ Michael Jackson and the ‘Queen of Pop’ Whitney Houston. In addition, the 2^nd annual R&BHOF inductees include the Whispers, the Delfonics, Marvin Gaye and Motown’s Funk Brothers.  The R&BHOF also celebrates the contributions of non-performers such as radio and TV personalities, songwriters, musicians and promoters.  The Official R&B Music Hall of Fame Museum is recognized as the one and only official institution that honors and memorializes the accomplishments of the many individuals and organizations.

Robinson says, “I realized that the greatest music in the world (R&B) has been an inspiration to all genres of music. Every other genre has a hall of fame except R&B. The Whispers have earned the right to be recognized just like the Dells and Delfonics. William Hart’s songs have stood the test of time. The Delfonics have a unique sound and style. Many groups have emulated them, especially the Jacksons. All of the 2014 inductees should be recognized for their contributions to music on a global level. “

With the authorization of city officials, Robinson and his organizers are laboring to build the R&B HOF Museum in Canton, Ohio.  The $10 million state-of-the-art facility will be the first of its kind to honor R&B legends. In the interim, mobile museum on wheels exhibit is currently touring the country.  The Museum will not only attract music fans, scholars and tourists but will educate youth via interactive educational activities along with video exhibits focused on the evolution of Rhythm and Blues and its historical impact on our world and to ensure the achievements of past, present and future artists and those involved with the industry, remain for posterity. It exists to educate the world about the history and continuing significance of R&B music. It carries out this mission through its operation of a world-class museum that preserves this art form.  For more information on the 2014 ceremonies, the mobile museum and other activities, visit www.RBHallofFame.com.