The Buffalo Music Hall of Fame was founded in 1983 to recognize groups and individuals who have had a significant impact on the WNY music scene and/or achieved success in the music industry on a national and often an international scale. Inductees are chosen from nominees which are rated in several different categories. The Buffalo Music Hall of Fame annually recognizes and inducts outstanding Western New Yorkers who have made major contributions to the music industry at their annual induction gala.