CMT News

Alabama lead vocalist Randy Owen has released a copy of the acceptance speech he planned to give during the band's induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame. Although guitarist Jeff Cook and drummer Mark Herndon offered comments, time constraints during Tuesday's (Nov. 15) CMA Awards show prompted the television producers to break for a commercial before Owen and bassist Teddy Gentry were allowed to speak. Owen thanked longtime manager Dale Morris, booking agent Barbara Harden, RCA Records and the performing rights organization, BMI. He also acknowledged those who have helped raise money for the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. "As a personal note, I want to once again say thanks to country radio ... and the men and women that make up country radio ... because their hearts have saved the lives of many children at St. Jude. And I hope that they never forget, because I never will. ... I'm very, very honored to be a part of Country Music's Hall of Fame." Listen to Randy Owen's entire acceptance speech.