Music industry professional Doug Baker of Lexington was inducted into the South Carolina Entertainment and Music Hall of Fame at the Icehouse Amphitheater in Lexington last week. Zac Brown tribute band, 20 Ride, performed and brought out special guest and Sumter native Rob Crosby to play with them after the induction ceremony.

Baker, also from Sumter, began his career as a musician and worked his way from studio recording engineer to booking agent. He worked with the Godfather of Soul, James Brown, at a Christmas Day concert at Fort Jackson in 1990, coordinating and booking the opening act, rock band Wet Willie. He now runs EastCoast Entertainment in Lexington, working with clients like 20 Ride to book gigs and bring them into the spotlight.

Baker was presented the award by South Carolina Entertainment and Music Hall of Fame Executive Director Justin Ray Williams, Administrative Manager Dendy Brooks, Chairman Roy Costner III, Hall of Famer Phil Lister and CEO David Godbold. Lexington Mayor Hazel Livingston also made an appearance to present Baker with a proclamation to honor him for 40 years of service to live entertainment in the Palmetto State.

“Our Hall of Fame literally receives hundreds of nominations every year, and this recipient tonight just happened to make it quickly to the top of the list,” Costner said. “He's booked thousands of shows on this stage and other stages like it across the country.”

The Hall of Fame was founded in 1989 by Godbold to recognize members of the music and entertainment industry who have impacted South Carolina and brought national attention to their work. South Carolinians such as Hootie and the Blowfish, Vanna White and James Brown have been inducted into this Hall of Fame.

“We do everything we can to bring recognition to musicians, artists and people that operate and play on a national level,” Godbold said.

Several clients of Baker’s were in attendance and were recognized by him and the Hall of Fame.

“I'm honored to see so many clients and band members out here tonight,” Baker said. “You know, if you had a better agent, on a Friday night, you probably wouldn't be here.”

Baker booked 20 Ride to perform at the Icehouse Amphitheater's inaugural event, and they were back to celebrate his hall of fame induction. The band played Zac Brown classics and other country hits, but also switched it up with pop mashups including, “We will Rock You” and “I Love Rock and Roll.” After the inauguration, country singer Crosby joined the band on stage for more jams.