ARIA Awards to induct Molly, Countdown into the Hall of Fame

And about time too…

The celebrations for Molly Meldrum, who marks 50 years in the entertainment industry this year, continue with news he will be inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame next month -the first non-recording artist to be inducted.

Iconic ABC show Countdown will also be inducted as it marks its 40th anniversary.

“To be recognised by my peers and to be the first person who isn’t a musician inducted into the ARIA Hall Of Fame is such an honour,” said Meldrum.

“To think for over four decades I have had the luxury of working in an industry that I absolutely love and am so passionate about and then to be recognised for it makes me reflect on what an amazing life I live. From the early days of Countdown with Michael Shrimpton and Robbie Weekes where it all began and still to this day, I thank you from the bottom of my heart for letting me share my undying love of this crazy, wonderful and never dull Australian music industry, long may it reign.”

Kylie Minogue said, “Molly, I wiped away your tears when you inducted me into the ARIA Hall Of Fame in 2011, and I wish you’d been there to wipe away my tears when I heard that you will be inducted into the ARIA Hall Of Fame this year! I can’t think of another person who deserves this honour more than you. Was it really 40 years ago that Countdown launched?! It became such a tradition for families across Australia to huddle by the TV to watch you interview our idols and to see our favourite bands perform on the show. The Australian music industry is blessed to have had you in our lives for over four decades and I love that the rest of Australia can celebrate YOU on November 26 when you are inducted into the ARIA Hall Of Fame. Congratulations and lots of love, Kylie.”

Denis Handlin Chairman, Sony Music Entertainment said: “Molly is a true national icon who for over 50 years has entertained and informed us about artists and their music.”

Michael Gudinski, Executive Chairman, The Mushroom Group, “I’ve known Molly for many, many years and in that time he has been many things…a journalist, a producer, a music leader, and a sometimes pain in my ass. I’m so pleased to see Ian inducted into the ARIA Hall Of Fame and cannot think of a more worthy recipient. He has had a profound and significant impact on our music industry and I’m proud to call him my friend.”

ARIAs indicates Countdown is also to be honoured, which would make it the first television show to be inducted:

Forty years ago, Ian ‘Molly’ Meldrum and his signature hat came to the attention of households across Australia when he was offered the chance to host a new music show called Countdown, a program created by Executive Producer Michael Shrimpton, producer/director Robbie Weekes, and record producer and music journalist Ian ‘Molly’ Meldrum. For thirteen years, this ABC TV program showcased the finest, the newest, the up‐and‐coming local and overseas recording artists. It became one of the most-loved and most-watched programs on Australian television, and turned Molly into one of the most iconic and trusted voices on music.

Next month ABC marks the 40th anniversary of Countdown with a two part special.

ARIA Awards will take place Wednesday, November 26 at The Star, Sydney and broadcast on TEN.