Scotty Moore received the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s first sideman induction in 2000.
Moore was the guitarist who helped define Elvis Presley’s early sound. At Sun Records in Memphis, Moore, bassist Bill Black, and Presley created the startling blend of country, blues, and rhythmic drive heard on “That’s All Right,” recorded in 1954. Moore later played on major Presley recordings including “Mystery Train,” “Heartbreak Hotel,” and “Hound Dog.”
The Hall created its Sidemen category in 2000 to honor musicians whose crucial work often happened behind headline artists. Moore was part of that inaugural group, alongside session giants including Earl Palmer, Hal Blaine, James Jamerson, and King Curtis. The category was later renamed the Award for Musical Excellence.
Bill Black and D. J. Fontana were also important members of Presley’s recording and touring circle, but neither was the first sideman honored in 2000. James Burton received the same type of recognition later.