Bill Ward (Black Sabbath)

Although being snubbed by the Grammy’s hasn’t stopped the 2nd annual Hall Of Heavy Metal awards show from honoring the greats again. This year’s program was even better than last year’s awards show with some heavy weights.

The iconic Bill Ward received his award for his long time drumming with “Black Sabbath” for his entire career as well as many side projects. Not only is Bill an icon in our business but he is one of the good guys. A well-deserved honor for this gracious man with impeccable timing and a great sense of humor. Glad we were there to witness this great getting an award for his contribution to Heavy Metal greats “Black Sabbath”.

Next up was the iconic music store owner Sam Ash. Reconized for his long time contribution to the music industry’s greats from the East Coast and for his family’s service to everyone from New York to California for 75 years plus. As the 3rd generation son of Sam Ash took the stage to accept his award he shared with everyone growing up in the business and the influence his grandfather and father had in forming his business savvy and continuing what his family started all those years before. Let’s face it, most business never last 75 years, let alone a music store.

Next up was my longtime friend, Carmine Appice. Carmine played with Vanilla Fudge, Rod Stewart, Blue Murder, Beck, Bogert, Appice and many more. Carmine truly is one of the greatest drummers of all time. John Bonaham was asked who he thought was the best he said Carmine Appice. When I heard that all those years ago I wasn’t surprised.

Bass player extraordinaire Billy Sheehan also received an award as one of the greats. Without a doubt one of the most influential bass players of all time in the Rock world.

Lzzy Hale

Lizzy Hale was also awarded for her band Halestorm. I had the opportunity to interview her on the red carpet before the show and found her gracious and very humble. We spoke about the bands new music and also when I saw her band for the first time. You can hear the interview at the end of this article.

Billy Sheehan

A special award went to Nick Menza the drummer for Megadeath and it was presented by his longtime friend and bandmate, Dave Ellison. Dave spoke fondly of their relationship. Attending an accepting the award was Nick’s family who also shared their memories.

Also, an award was given to a longtime friend Mr. Elliot Rubinson, owner of Dean Guitars, D Drum and Luna Guitars for unwavering contribution to music business as well as his Bass Playing ability with some of the greatest artists in the world. I think of you often my friend and miss you.

Jordan Rudess from the iconic band Dream Theater also received an award for his contribution on keys too. In my opinion DT is one of the greatest prog groups ever.

Anvil, the band, also picked up their award as well it was great to see them there.

All in all it was a great show for the only the second year and I’m looking forward to next year’s awards show. See you all there!

On behalf of Backstage360 we want to thank the founders of The Hall of Heavy Metal for including us for the second annual awards gala.

RocmanRocks / BackStage360

Our Interview with Lzzy Hale at the Awards Show: