From Little Things Big Things Grow
From humble beginnings to grand stages, the South Australian Music Hall of Fame has become a cornerstone of the state's vibrant musical landscape, celebrating legends and nurturing new talent.
It all began with a vision. In 2009, Adelaide radio icons David 'Daisy' Day and John Vincent, long-time champions of local music, founded the South Australian Music Hall of Fame. Their passion for the state's rich musical heritage, cultivated through their highly-rated radio programs, ignited a movement to honour artists who shaped South Australia's sound. David Day's dedication to the music community extended even further, as he later established the Debonairs lunch events with funds raised directed to the work of Support Act nationally.
The Hall of Fame's journey started modestly in August 2010 with our inaugural exhibition at the Kentish Arms Hotel in North Adelaide. This intimate setting was the prelude to something much bigger.
The Goodwood and Initial Inductions
2014 marked a significant move for the Hall of Fame to the Goodwood Institute. This relocation ushered in a new era of collaboration with the Adelaide Music Collective (AMC), an organisation formed by Dr Enrico Morena to connect the South Australian Musical community.
Together, the two organisations worked to identify and induct Adelaide's most celebrated musical identities into the South Australian Music Hall of Fame. The AMC Sessions became very popular with events partially funded by government grants and the support of the Music Development Office Momentum was building and the events became must-attend occasions.
Early inductees included members of legendary bands like The Angels, The Twilights, The Masters Apprentices, and Redgum, bringing together generations of South Australian musical talent and providing invaluable opportunities for emerging artists to share the stage with their heroes.
International Recognition and Expanding Horizons
The Hall of Fame's influence soon stretched beyond state borders. In 2015, a remarkable partnership with the State Library of South Australia led to a highly successful exhibition in the institute room on North Terrace, a space previously home to the Sir Donald Bradman Collection. This prestigious exhibition coincided with Adelaide's bustling racing and Fringe Festival season, culminating in Cold Chisel's trackside induction during the Adelaide 500 race. That same year, the Hall of Fame achieved our first international induction, honouring Robert Stigwood at Australia House in London.
A Creative Hub and Collaborative Masterpieces
2016 saw the SA Music Hall of Fame move to St Paul's Creative Centre on Pulteney Street, sharing the space with Music SA and the Music Development Office. This new exhibition space opened with the induction of Julie Anthony OAM. The Hall of Fame collaborated with the AMC on a ground breaking project: the album "Yesterday's Heroes." This initiative brought together Adelaide's most promising up-and-coming musicians with the state's music legends, fostering mentorship and creating a timeless record of cross-generational talent.
Keeping the Dream Alive
The South Australian Music Hall of Fame's commitment to our local music scene extended to acknowledging the very spaces that have nurtured countless performances. In 2016, a partnership with the Australian Hotels Association celebrated South Australia's iconic venues, including The Gov, The Grace Emily, The Bridgeway Hotel, The Arkaba, and the Adelaide Town Hall.
By 2017, the Hall of Fame's rapid growth meant another change of scenery. The Goodwood Institute was no longer large enough to accommodate the burgeoning demand for induction events. The German Club on Flinders Street stepped up to host the next series of inductions. This period saw remarkable generosity from artists like Beeb Birtles (of Zoot and Little River Band) and Barry Smith (of The Town Criers), who selflessly donated their performance earnings to the Hall of Fame. These contributions were vital, funding the next 100 induction medallions and numerous future band plaques, ensuring the continued recognition of South Australian musical excellence.
Often due to location or situation, inductions would take place in other places. Jazz Identity and Mount Gambier musical legend Dale Cleves was inducted in his hometown and at his renowned venue, The Barn, which was also inducted as a Venue of significance.
Inductions have also taken place on stage during performances by inductees, quietly and without fanfare (as in the case with Sister Janet Mead) and at events run by Support Act SA Fundraising.
Thebarton Theatre: A Landmark Celebration
2018 marked an unforgettable collaboration with the iconic Thebarton Theatre, as the Hall of Fame inducted the venue itself and celebrated its 90th birthday. This monumental event drew a sold-out crowd and featured an unparalleled lineup of talent, including South Australian legends like Jimmy Barnes, Glenn Shorrock, John Schumann, Mark Holden, and The Masters Apprentices, alongside national stars such as James Reyne, Red Symons, Julia Zemiro, and Michael Chugg. This remains the largest induction event to date, a testament to the power of music to unite and inspire.
Resilience and New Horizons
The journey continued to evolve. In 2019, it secured a larger space within the St Paul's Creative Centre. Even the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021 couldn't slow the momentum, with inductions and events successfully held at the Elder Conservatorium and the Largs Pier Hotel.
The spirit of collaboration remained strong. In 2023, the SA Music Hall of Fame partnered with Music SA to conduct inductions at the annual South Australian Music Awards (SAMM awards), bringing prestigious recognition to a wider audience and honouring luminaries like Paul Kelly and Guy Sebastian.
In 2024, its exhibition found a temporary residence at the newly renovated Her Majesty's Theatre, a fitting stage for its rich collection. This arrangement continued until 2025, when the SA Music Hall of Fame proudly settled into its current, well-deserved home: the Adelaide Town Hall.
The Legacy Lives On
Through every move, every induction, and every collaboration, the South Australian Music Hall of Fame has remained steadfast. We are very proud to celebrate the vibrant tapestry of South Australian music and to resurrect the legacy of bands that may otherwise have faded from the spotlight. The South Australian Hall of Fame meticulously honours those artists who have passed on, ensuring their invaluable contributions remain alive for future generations to cherish.
Join us in carrying forward the inspiring vision of our founders and those who volunteer on the Committee to continue to celebrate our rich musical heritage together. Let us remember, honour, and elevate the voices that have shaped our lives and continue to resonate in our hearts.