The Alferd Packer Memorial String Band performs in Baldwin in 2005. The band was founded by Jim Brothers in 1979. From left are musicians Matt Kirby, Steve Mason, Lauralynn Bodle, Steve Goeke, Mike Yoder and Jim Brothers.

Internationally known singer/actress Janelle Monáe and several Lawrence musicians are among those being inducted into the Kansas Music Hall of Fame this year.

Lawrence’s Alferd Packer Memorial String Band and Carol Spears will join other musicians from around the state who are being inducted, including Crosswind, of Manhattan; Slate Creek Band, of Wichita; Switch, of Dodge City; Moreland & Arbuckle, of Wichita; Stan Plesser, of Kansas City; Steve Hanson, Salina; and Monáe, of Kansas City.

photo by: Evan Agostini/Invision/AP

Janelle Monáe arrives at the Vanity Fair Oscar Party on Sunday, March 27, 2022, at the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts in Beverly Hills, California.

Hanson is this year’s recipient of the Bob Hapgood Award, named after Hall of Fame board member Bob Hapgood, a 2006 inductee with his band King Midas & The Muflers. Hapgood was also a longtime radio deejay from McPherson. Each year, this award is given to a deserving venue owner, radio deejay, booking agent, music store owner, music teacher, important musician or musical act from a less populated area of the state that might not otherwise be recognized by the voting membership at large, according to a news release Thursday from the Hall of Fame.

Monáe is this year’s recipient of the Bill Lee Award, named after Hall of Fame founder Bill Lee. The Bill Lee Award recognizes potential inductees currently active and deemed worthy by the board for early induction, especially those with a significant national/international profile. Standard rules for potential inductees include having started their musical careers at least 20 years ago. The Bill Lee Award allows for possible exception by the board of that 20-year ruling.

The mission of the Kansas Music Hall of Fame is to honor the music, musicians and related institutions that have made a significant contribution to Kansas and the Greater Kansas City area. A virtual induction ceremony is scheduled for July 30 at 7:30 p.m. on ksmhof.org.