The San Diego Music Hall of Fame will induct a new class of honorees on September 27, 2025, at a ceremony designed to honor the rich musical heritage of the region. This event, founded by Jefferson Jay in 2018, aims to celebrate individuals who have made significant contributions to the San Diego music scene.
Jay, a singer-songwriter and musician himself, envisioned the Hall of Fame as a more serious counterpart to the annual San Diego Music Awards. He sought to create an event that would bring the community together to recognize its legends and preserve its musical history. “Our whole event is almost designed as a kind of counterpoint to the Music Awards,” Jay explained in an interview. “This is a day where the San Diego music community can come together and honor its heroes.”
The upcoming induction ceremony will take place from 18:00 to 22:30 at VISION: A Center for Spiritual Living, located at 4780 Mission Gorge Place, Suite H, San Diego. The formal induction will begin at 19:00.
Among this year’s inductees are notable figures such as rockabilly artist Rosie Flores, alternative rocker John Reis, jazz performer and producer Kamau Kenyatta, and jazz bassist Bob Magnusson. Additionally, the all-female punk band from the ’80s, The Dinettes, music journalist Bart Mendoza, and performer Eulogio “The Soul Man” Fos will also receive honors.
Tickets for the event range from $59.47 to $108.55, depending on seating, and are available through Eventbrite.
The criteria for induction into the Hall of Fame focus largely on community service and contributions to the local music landscape. “You need to have given of yourself in a large way to make San Diego music better,” Jay stated. He emphasized that many musicians who have dedicated decades to their craft often meet this requirement. Over the years, the Hall of Fame has recognized not only musicians but also educators, journalists, producers, and instrument makers, reflecting the diverse fabric of the San Diego music community.
Jay noted that the vetting process for inductees can take months, as he consults with various community members to ensure that the inductee class accurately reflects the community’s diversity. “We always want to make sure our classes represent the entire community as much as possible,” he said.
Looking to the future, Jay expressed his aspiration to establish a dedicated San Diego Museum of Music, which would serve as a permanent home for the Hall of Fame. He envisions it as a space where local youth can learn about music and the history of their community without needing to travel far. “I want the San Diego Music Hall of Fame to keep growing. This is about preserving our musical history,” he said.
The San Diego Music Hall of Fame stands as a testament to the city’s vibrant musical legacy, celebrating those who have shaped its soundscape and fostering a sense of pride among its residents.
