Gill, Tillis And Emery Are Hall Of Famers

Country Music Hall Of Fame Will Induct Its Three Newest Members Later This Year

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NASHVILLE, Tenn., Aug. 7, 2007 | by Judy Faber

(AP)  Vince Gill, Mel Tillis and Ralph Emery have been selected for induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame.

The announcement was made Tuesday at the Hall of Fame by Barbara Mandrell, Brenda Lee and Hall of Fame Director Kyle Young.

Gill, who was joined by his wife, Amy Grant, said he was overwhelmed.

"Out of all the things you've ever done — it just matters, it matters so much," the 50-year-old country star said in an emotional speech. "We're so blessed to get to be able to do this."

Gill's hits include "When I Call Your Name," "Don't Let Our Love Start Slippin' Away" and "I Still Believe in You."

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Photos: Academy Of Country Music Awards

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Tillis, who turned his stutter into his trademark, was chosen in the hall's lifetime achievement category. The singer, who turns 75 on Wednesday, was recently inducted into the Grand Ole Opry. With his band, the Statesiders, Tillis had hits with "I Ain't Never," "Good Woman Blues" and "I Believe in You."

Emery, 74, was selected in the nonperformer category. He was a disc jockey on WSM, which broadcasts the Grand Ole Opry. He also hosted a program on The Nashville Network cable network.

The trio will be inducted later this year.

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