LaMont “ShowBoat” Robinson
Founder
National Rhythm & Blues Hall of Fame
Lamont “ShowBoat” Robinson has devoted his life to preserving the rich history and cultural impact of Rhythm and Blues. As the founder of the Rhythm & Blues Hall of Fame, he created a lasting institution designed to honor artists whose contributions shaped generations and transformed American music.
Robinson’s work goes beyond celebration; it is a mission to educate, uplift, and protect the legacy of Black music for the future. Through decades of dedication, he has led the effort to archive rare history, recognize overlooked talent, and build a permanent home where the story of R&B can be experienced by all.
About Us
The National Rhythm & Blues Hall of Fame Foundation is a 501(c)(3) founded in 2010 by basketball legend and American Basketball Hall of Famer LaMont "ShowBoat" Robinson. The first inaugural induction ceremony was held in 2013 and has been held in induction ceremonies annually. Every year the Hall of Fame has attracted music fans to come each year to the induction ceremonies, they come as far as Europe to our always sold-out Black-Tie Red Carpet Gala. The National Rhythm & Blues Hall of Fame has enshrined over 300 world-renowned artists such as James Brown, Aretha Franklin, Michael Jackson, Prince, Elvis Presley, and many, many more.
Founded
The Rhythm & Blues Hall of Fame was founded by Lamont “ShowBoat” Robinson in 2010 to honor and preserve the legacy of R&B music and its legendary artists. Established out of a passion for celebrating Black musical heritage, the Hall of Fame recognizes the contributions of pioneers, educates the public about the history and cultural impact of R&B, and inspires future generations to connect with this rich musical tradition.
mission
Our mission is to educate and preserve, promote and present but focus mainly on the history of rhythm and blues music, but this institution will honor blues, gospel, jazz and hip-hop artists, due to rhythm, blues, being brith from the gospel, blues and jazz music, but rhythm and blues music inspired every other genres of music. The National Rhythm & Blues Hall of Fame will celebrate the black music legacy, by ensuring artists into its institution.
goal
The goal is to build a state-of-the-art complex in the City of (TBA), to honor the legacy of rhythm and blues, blues, gospel, jazz, and hip-hop music, and the complex will be called the Black Music Village.
Vision
The National Rhythm & Blues Hall of Fame will be an in-depth, highly interactive educational experience. It maintains historical artifacts and state-of-the-art interactive exhibits that provide cultural enrichment, and entertainment for people of all
Board
Board
Coming Soon
Staff
David Brown – Executive Vice President
Russell Johnson – Creative Director
John Wilson – Historian
Corey Washington – Spokes Person
call to action
Core Values
Celebration of Excellence – Honoring the outstanding achievements of R&B artists, performers, and contributors across all genres of music.
Preservation of Legacy – Safeguarding the history and cultural impact of Rhythm and Blues for future generations.
Education and Empowerment – Using music as a tool to teach history, culture, and social awareness while inspiring creativity and learning.
Community Engagement – Connecting people through shared experiences, events, and programs that celebrate cultural resilience.
Diversity and Inclusive – Recognizing and valuing all voices, stories, and contributions within the R&B community.
Innovation and Inspiration – Creating interactive and forward-thinking experiences that captivate audiences and foster passion for music