Elvis' Sweet Inspirations to be inducted into the R&B Hall of Fame

Elvis' female backing group, the legendary SWEET INSPIRATIONS will finally be inducted into the R&B HALL OF FAME, in the Spring of 2014.

The Hall of Fame encapsulates African American culture and has become a part of American history. Congratulations, this is wonderful news!!

source: http://www.elvismatters.com

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The Sweet Inspirations were founded by Cissy Houston, mother of Whitney Houston. Original members are: Cissy Houston, Myrna Smith, Estelle Brown, Sylvia Shemwell, and Judy Clay. The Sweet Inspirations first record was released in the year of 1967 on Atlantic Records. They spent many years creating albums, and backing up popular musical entertainers such as Van Morrison, Jimi Hendrix and Aretha Franklin. The Sweet Inspirations toured with Elvis Presley from July of 1969 and they continued all the way through Elvis' last concert on June 26th 1977.

Elvis Presley Fans of Nashville would like to acknowledge original Sweet Inspirations members, Myrna Smith & Sylvia Shemwell. Both ladies who were dearly admired and toured with Elvis have passed away in recent years. We are sure Myrna and Sylvia would have both been thrilled to be here for the honor and experience. Estelle Brown, is the only original Sweet Inspirations member still performing today. Estelle is joined on stage today with current members, Portia Griffin and Kelly Jones for the internationally traveling "Elvis In Concert" production.

Update from Portia Griffin:
Along with Estelle Brown and Portia, the families of the late Sweet Inspirations: Myrna Smith and Sylvia Shemwell will be recognized at the official R&B Hall of Fame induction ceremony held Spring 2014. The Smith and Shemwell families will accept the awards posthumously in their honor. We are very glad to hear this fabulous news and are sure Myrna & Sylvia will be with them in spirit on this very special day!