The Crooked Road: Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail celebrates the announcement of June Carter Cash’s induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville, Tennessee.
“June’s induction is much deserved. It highlights The Crooked Road’s legacy of being the home place to some of the world’s most talented and creative musicians, singers and dancers,” said Tyler Hughes, executive director of The Crooked Road.
June Carter Cash, musician, singer and dancer, is among the 2025 inductees of the Country Music Hall of Fame. Carter was the wife of Johnny Cash and daughter of Mother Maybelle Carter of the Carter Family. A multi-instrumentalist, she performed on banjo, guitar and autoharp. She was known for writing country music hits such as Johnny Cash’s “Ring of Fire.”
Carter’s family legacy runs deep in Southwest Virginia. Her mother, Maybelle Carter, was a member of the pioneering group the Carter Family. Their recordings at the 1927 Bristol Sessions helped launch the commercial country music industry. After the group separated, June continued performing with her family as Mother Maybelle and the Carter Sisters.
Apart from her work with the Carter Family, June Carter Cash also built a successful solo career. She lent her vocals to many recordings with Johnny Cash and appeared on several of his albums. In addition to her collaborations with Cash, she also produced three solo records: "Appalachian Pride" (1975), "Press On" (1999) and "Wildwood Flower" (2003). Her last record was released posthumously and produced by her son, John Carter Cash. "Press On" earned a Grammy in 1999, and "Wildwood Flower" won two more. Her final record features video footage from the recording sessions, which took place at the Carter Family estate in Hiltons, Virginia.
The Historic Carter Family Fold honors many generations of the Carter Family legacy. A major venue along The Crooked Road, the Fold pays tribute to the family’s musical contributions. The venue features a museum, as well as weekly local bluegrass and old-time musical acts.
“We’re extremely proud to have yet another family member in the Hall of Fame,” said Rita Forrester, granddaughter of A.P. and Sara Carter and director of the Carter Family Fold.
June Carter Cash’s induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame is a testament to the lasting influence of her music. As The Crooked Road continues to celebrate Virginia’s musical heritage, her contributions serve as a reminder of the region’s rich cultural history. The Crooked Road spans 330 miles and connects 10 major music venues across the mountains of Southwest Virginia. For the past two decades, it has been a vital asset for cultural tourism and economic development in the region.
For more information about The Crooked Road, visit www.thecrookedroadva.com, call (276) 492-2400 ext. 2409, or email: contact@thecrookedroad.com.
