|PIC1|Legendary Christian artist Michael W Smith joins an elite group of music industry figures later this month when he will be inducted into the Music City Walk of Fame.

The induction ceremony takes place at the Hall of Fame Park in downtown Nashville on 22 April.

The 2007 class of inductees for the Music City Walk of Fame also includes country legend Emmylou Harris, Americana mainstay John Hiatt, country powerhouse Wynonna Judd, seminal rock 'n' roll combo The Crickets, and long-time BMI president/CEO Frances Preston.

Smith comments, "I'm thrilled to share this day with Emmylou, John, Wynonna, The Crickets and Frances. I was surprised when I found out, and am humbled by the honour."

Jim Caviezel, who portrayed Jesus in the 2005 film "The Passion of the Christ", is a friend of Smith's and will serve as his presenter into the Music City Walk of Fame.

The Music City Walk of Fame is an official project of Music City Inc, the charitable foundation of the Nashville Convention & Visitors Bureau, and the 2007 class represents the second group of honourees inducted.

"This class of inductees continues to showcase the diversity of the music that thrives in this city," said Butch Spyridon, President of the Nashville Convention & Visitors Bureau. "Each honouree has left an indelible mark on music worldwide and on our city's musical heritage. We're privileged to pay homage to their great success."

The Music City Walk of Fame ceremony kicks off a busy Gospel Music Week 2007 for Smith. He will be a presenter at the 38th Annual GMA Dove Awards at the Grand Ole Opry House Wednesday on 25 April.