Construction of a physical Blues Hall of Fame is a dream come true, a vision realized. The Blues Hall of Fame was established in 1980, concurrent with the founding of the Blues Foundation with the hope there would be an actual location some day. Thirty-five years later, this has come to pass.

146 performers. 51 non-performers. 83 singles (or album tracks). 76 albums and 40 classics of blues literature have been inducted over that period of time including Robert Johnson, B.B. King, Buddy Guy, Muddy Waters and Etta James. Total number of people and works now stands at 396.

Not only does the Blues Hall of Fame pay tribute to these people and works, but it also will inform and educate visitors and school groups, keeping the blues flame burning.

The Blues Foundation's “Raise the Roof!” capital campaign raised $2.9 million; $900,000 has been donated by Memphis philanthropists and the balance from blues fans from around the world, underscore the broad institutional and individual support for the effort.