Future Rock Legends

Inductees have been leaked: Peter Gabriel, Hall & Oates, KISS, Nirvana, Linda Ronstadt and Cat Stevens

Also, the E Street Band will be inducted in the Musical Excellence category and Brian Epstein will go in as a Non-Performer

Posted by Gassman on Monday, 12/16/2013 @ 22:11pm

Oh snap, I hope the Hall and Oates induction is true!!! Congrats to Linda Ronstadt. Interesting Cat Stevens got in. Anyway, wait until tomorrow I guess.

Posted by Tim on Monday, 12/16/2013 @ 22:20pm

From a personal perspective, there's two that I love, two that I'm indifferent about and two that I loathe, so I guess it evens out for me. Objectively I can't make a self serving case against any of them, though. They all made their mark.

I just feel indifferent about this combination.

Posted by DarinRG on Monday, 12/16/2013 @ 22:24pm

That's true Darin, can't really hate on this list. They all deserved it.

Posted by Tim on Monday, 12/16/2013 @ 22:31pm

Hey, Lax! Where did you read that Link Wray is going in as an early influence?

Posted by Roy on Monday, 12/16/2013 @ 22:36pm

The and after Brian Epstein is probably Link Wray in the Early Influence category.

Posted by Rick Vendl II on Monday, 12/16/2013 @ 22:40pm

Why the hell did voters pass on Yes and Deep Purple?! Cat Stevens is in, but not Chic, and they are both nominted for the 2014 Songwriters Hall of Fame as well.

Posted by Roy on Monday, 12/16/2013 @ 22:41pm

I'll say that 2014 is the rockist's year. The only inductee that the rockist will flack about is Cat Stevens.

Posted by John R.C. on Monday, 12/16/2013 @ 22:44pm

No, John R.C., I fear you are mistaken. They will be upset about H&O and Ronstadt too. They're not head-bangin' hard rock, and more importantly they're NOT Deep Purple or Yes.

I'm with DarinRG, two I like, two I loathe, and two I'm okay with. I just really wish it didn't include the Cat. He sucks SOOOO hard.

Regarding the tantalizing "and" at the end of the tweet: note that it didn't mention Non-Performer or Ahmet Ertegun Award award before the "and"... to borrow from Lax, I infer that there will be one more Non-Performer inductee. There's no indicator regarding any Early Influence. But there's no indicator that there isn't either. We shall see tomorrow.

Posted by Philip on Monday, 12/16/2013 @ 22:50pm

"Responding to DarinRG: your post regarding Paul Butterfield, while sarcastic and admittedly quite humorous and thought-provoking, does bring forth a truth to what I have mentioned. Last year, every RRHOF inductee had previously been inducted into our Revisited/Projected Rock Hall project." - Lax

Lax, I'm glad that you took my comment in the good nature in which it was intended (as are all of my sarcastic comments). I still contend the the actual HoF doesn't care in the least about what we do here, and that most nominators and voters are likely not even aware of our existence.

I think that the reason you're seeing them induct Revisited/Projected inductees is because we induct more artists per year than they do and were way ahead of them chronologically. They really can't help but induct artists that we already have for the most part.

Posted by DarinRG on Monday, 12/16/2013 @ 22:55pm

"I'll say that 2014 is the rockist's year. The only inductee that the rockist will flack about is Cat Stevens."

"No, John R.C., I fear you are mistaken. They will be upset about H&O and Ronstadt too. They're not head-bangin' hard rock, and more importantly they're NOT Deep Purple or Yes."

They could let Eddie Trunk unilaterally curate an entire year's class and rockists will still find something to whine about.

Posted by DarinRG on Monday, 12/16/2013 @ 23:02pm

True, but DP was one they really had their hopes pinned on this year, even moreso than KISS.

Posted by Philip on Monday, 12/16/2013 @ 23:06pm

Yeah the "purists" won't be happen about Ronstadt and H&O, especially H&O, since they seem to be the only real R&B act in that list (Chic was disco/funk). Not sure about Cat Stevens either because I know he's caught a lot of flack for being a Muslim activist. The purists won't be happy about KISS either lol they're never happy.

Posted by Tim on Monday, 12/16/2013 @ 23:13pm

I'M SO HAPPY. The second year they've skewed toward my leanings - last year I was praying for Randy Newman, this year I would have voted for Ronstadt, Kiss, Stevens, Gabriel and H&O. So all five of my "potential picks" made it. I've always been supportive of Kiss, too.

If I could have it completely my way, I would have inducted seven, with Deep Purple as that alternate.

As someone who has never been a supporter of Chic's induction, I'm not outraged to see them off. I really hope next year they just give Nile Rodgers an honorary award as he is deserving, but I feel like after this year, another Chic nom would seem futile and desperate.

Posted by DC on Monday, 12/16/2013 @ 23:13pm

I doubt Chic (I'm guessing Nile and Bernard) will get inducted to the Songwriters Hall of Fame either.

Posted by Tim on Monday, 12/16/2013 @ 23:15pm

This is one of the worst class of inductees from one of the best ballots. Ain't that a shame.

P.S. I think everyone on the ballot was better and more influential than Cat Stevens.

Posted by Al on Monday, 12/16/2013 @ 23:16pm

I also think this does kinda show how ready the voters are for 80s acts to get in. Granted the Cure lost out, but Gabriel and Hall & Oates both getting in may mean that acts like the B-52's, Depeche Mode, Duran Duran, etc. might get in the first ballot they are on too.

And singer-songwriters are a sure thing at this point, haha.

Posted by DC on Monday, 12/16/2013 @ 23:17pm

@DC, I'm thinking Nile will get Musical Excellence or the Ahmet Ertegun Award (I think the Ahmet one goes to songwriters/producers and he and Bernard fit the description). I just have a funny feeling that he's part of the "and..." thing. Who knows though? Maybe it's just wishful thinking. More and more every year I don't know why they try with Chic. I was gunning for them but I'm not upset they didn't get inducted.

Posted by Tim on Monday, 12/16/2013 @ 23:19pm

I agree with both Darin and Philip, there are two I like (Nirvana and Peter Gabriel), two I hate (Cat Stevens and Hall & Oates) and two I'm okay with (KISS and Linda Ronstadt). For me, I would've replace Cat Stevens with either Chic or Link Wray (if he doesn't get in the Influence category like Lax said).

The reason why rockist will be okay with Hall & Oates and Linda Ronstadt is because their fans have clamoring about them for years and they pretty vocal about them like other fans of snubbed Metal/Prog acts.

Posted by John R.C on Monday, 12/16/2013 @ 23:20pm

Andrew Long Oldham, former Rolling Stones manager, will be inducted too.

Posted by Tim on Monday, 12/16/2013 @ 23:27pm

I mean "Loog" not "Long" lol

Posted by Tim on Monday, 12/16/2013 @ 23:28pm

Well, the Cat Stevens induction proved what I argued earlier, that literally every singer-songwriter that's deemed worthy enough for the ballot gets in nowadays. Acts like Laura Nyro, Tom Waits and Leonard Cohen all got in (and deserving so) in spite of next to no commercial performance. Cat Stevens was pretty much the bottom of the singer-songwriter trough, and if he got in so easily, then that bodes extremely well for acts like Gram Parsons, Warren Zevon and Nick Drake.

If these inductees have one thing in common, it's that they're the safest choices. The biggest mainstream names that don't dabble too far into one of those "weird" categories (hard rock for Purple, disco for Chic, prog for Yes, etc.) If you were some seventy-five year old (and white) Rock Hall inductee, these are probably the six names you would have voted for.

Posted by Casper on Monday, 12/16/2013 @ 23:31pm

I noticed that the Non-Performer inductees are both managers of two British Invasion giants during the early 60s respectively.

Posted by John R.C. on Monday, 12/16/2013 @ 23:38pm

It's sad that Linda Ronstadt won't be able to show up for the ceremony. :/ I can't imagine having Parkinson's. Wonder how many of Nirvana's members will be inducted. Will it just be the classic lineup (Cobain/Novoselic/Grohl) or would it also include Chad Channing, who recorded for "Bleach". As we know about some inducted groups such as the case with Martha and the Vandellas, all of its members were inducted, and sometimes in the case of the Supremes and Temptations, only the classic lineups were inducted and in the case of the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Jack Irons, Josh Klinghoffer and Cliff Martinez were inducted despite only performing on one or two RHCP albums while others like Dave Navarro (who has something of a legacy himself as member of Jane's Addiction) didn't get inducted. Pat Smear is not considered a member at all so he won't get in, which is a bummer. I like Pat.

Posted by Tim on Monday, 12/16/2013 @ 23:38pm

Andrew Loog Oldham is yet another inductee that hasn't been enshrined in Rock Hall Revisited/Projected. There's like eight or something.

Posted by Casper on Monday, 12/16/2013 @ 23:39pm

Two I love (Nirvana, Peter Gabriel), one I like (Cat Stevens), and three I'm indifferent about. Looks like they went with the biggest sellers this time, for the most part. I''ve got to say it's a real travesty that Yes and Deep Purple didn't get in. If Link Wray gets the early influence award I would be satisfied. Think about two things, though, and wonder about the future direction of the hall. This is the first all white performer class ever. It is also the first without a somewhat obscure nominee.

Posted by scott on Monday, 12/16/2013 @ 23:42pm

It'll be funnier to see who besides Gene, Paul, Ace and Peter who else in Kiss will be inducted! I hope there's no stupid drama though. Someone hinted Grohl might not show up for the Nirvana induction, I hope not.

Posted by Tim on Monday, 12/16/2013 @ 23:42pm

Tim, Pat Smear will definitely be there to perform even if he isn't an inductee. His connection to Grohl and the fact that he performed live with Nirvana quite often at the end of their career makes it likely.

I hope they don't have Paul McCartney front the band. Already been done. Not impossible to have Taylor Hawkins of Foo Fighters on drums while Dave Grohl sings a song or two.

E-Street Band probably should have gone in as performers. Inducting the managers of The Beatles and The Rolling Stones (neither of which is truly deserving in the grand scheme of things) just shows how the Rock Hall is still far too indebted to a few marquee acts. Time to move on already.

Posted by Casper on Monday, 12/16/2013 @ 23:43pm

@Scott, there was an all-white performing class in 2003, 2008 and 2012 (save for the "special inductees").

Posted by Tim on Monday, 12/16/2013 @ 23:46pm

Well that's true about Pat. I just hope Grohl shows up. But I don't know how they're gonna perform. With Cobain, they had something unique. I agree about Paul McCartney, I hope they don't invite him. The E Street Band, I always argued, should've been inducted with Bruce Springsteen. That situation reminds me of when Smokey Robinson got in without the Miracles or when Bill Haley went in without the Comets.

Posted by Tim on Monday, 12/16/2013 @ 23:48pm

So, we definitely will have a Paul McCartney/Nirvana reunion. Why? Because Macca will be at the ceremony to induct Brian Epstein (unless he has something else happening in his busy schedule). Wouldn't be shocked if him and Ringo were the presenters for Epstein and it would be kind of fitting for them to play with Nirvana since Kurt's ideal was always to infuse the catchiness of Beatles songs with the sounds of the burgeoning underground movement (as specfically mentioned by Kurt himself).

Posted by Casper on Monday, 12/16/2013 @ 23:55pm

That should be here:

About the 2014 Nominees, Gassman wrote:
Any guesses on the order of induction or who will do the inducting?

Posted by Gassman on Tuesday, 12/17/2013 @ 00:24am

Casper, I agree wholeheartedly about Cat Stevens. He's a third-rate singer/songwriter. Better choices would have been Carly Simon, Warren Zevon, Jim Croce...even Don McLean would be a better pick than Stevens.

Managers...I'm okay with it, for the most part. Managers help with the PR and shape the image of a band. I'm okay with Epstein and Oldham. Just as long as they never induct Parker.

As far as the Nirvana performance, I'm going to take a lot of flak about this, but I honestly think it should be Courtney Love. Yes, she and Grohl do not get along, and yes, the conspiracy theorists think she actually murdered Cobain instead of a suicide, but hear me out. For the same raw emotion and dystopian worldview to shine through in a vocal performance, she's the best choice to fill Kurt's shoes for the night. They were married for a reason; they were kindred spirits. I think the best tribute in the form of a lead singer would be Miss Love's feminine growl/rasp to ominously proffer forth "Load up on guns, bring your friends..." That is, if she can be clean enough for the occasion.

Posted by Philip on Tuesday, 12/17/2013 @ 00:26am

Yeah, Courtney fronting Nirvana is the most acceptable, sensible and entertaining scenario. It probably should happen.

Posted by Casper on Tuesday, 12/17/2013 @ 00:36am

Snubs List entries all need to have one year added to their total. New names at "0 Years" are Green Day, Pavement and Nine Inch Nails.

Also, E-Street Band need to be removed from the snubbed backing groups category.

Posted by Casper on Tuesday, 12/17/2013 @ 02:12am

I'm not sure it's an all-white list; isn't Linda Ronstadt Hispanic?

Posted by Joe on Tuesday, 12/17/2013 @ 02:38am

I am very disappointed that neither Deep Purple, nor Yes were inducted. On the other hand, I appreciate the fact that Peter Gabiel and Hall & Oates were finally inducted. I am indifferent towards the inductions of Cat Stevens, Linda Ronstadt, Nirvana and KISS. As far as the inductions of Cat Stevens and Linda Ronstadt are concerned, hopefully this will lead to the nominations of Carly Simon, Carole King, Stevie Nicks and Pat Benatar, in the not too distant future.

Will KISS' induction lead to the induction of Twisted Sister? Will Nirvana's induction lead to the nominations of Green Day and Soundgarden?

As far as the futures is concerned, I am now going to concentrate on my original 2014 inductee list, for the 2015 nominee's list. I will always support such artists as: Duran Duran, The Moody Blues, Electric Light Orchestra, Yes, Deep Purple, Carly Simon, Sade, Foreigner and The Doobie
Brothers.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Tuesday, 12/17/2013 @ 03:10am

I am very disappointed that neither Deep Purple, nor Yes were inducted. On the other hand, I appreciate the fact that Peter Gabriel and Hall & Oates were finally inducted. I am indifferent towards the inductions of Cat Stevens, Linda Ronstadt, Nirvana and KISS. As far as the inductions of Cat Stevens and Linda Ronstadt are concerned, hopefully this will lead to the nominations of Carly Simon, Carole King, Stevie Nicks and Pat Benatar, in the not too distant future.

Will KISS' induction lead to the nomination of Twisted Sister? Will Nirvana's induction lead to the nominations of Green Day and Soundgarden?

I am now going to concentrate on my original 2014 inductee list, for the 2015 nominee's list. I will always support such artists as: Duran Duran, The Moody Blues, Electric Light Orchestra, Yes, Deep Purple, Carly Simon, Sade, Foreigner and The Doobie Brothers.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Tuesday, 12/17/2013 @ 03:11am

I just can't see how LL Cool J, The Meters,The Paul Butterfield Blues Band, and N.W.A. merited second nominations and The Spinners and The Marvelettes didn't .

Also, the almost complete elimination of R&B inductees, AGAIN, is a commentary on everything that's wrong with the RRHOF. (and PLEASE don't say that H & O are R&B) .

The replacement of classic R&B with Rap is another thing that's wrong. Many legendary deserving R&B artists of the '50's 60's and '70's are being left out in the cold in favor of '80's rappers...and nothing at the RRHOF is being done to correct it.

And, why have The Belmonts been snubbed year after year ?

Posted by Bill G on Tuesday, 12/17/2013 @ 04:29am

Enigmaticus wrote: 'Will KISS' induction lead to the nomination of Twisted Sister?'

Snider and company are pretty far down the priority ladder as far as hard rock is concerned. A travesty that Deep Purple were shut out again but KISS going through makes it easier for them to get in next year. I would guess this also leads to Bon Jovi and Def Leppard.

I'm indifferent about Ronstadt and Stevens but apart from that I'm very happy with this group.

Posted by Sam on Tuesday, 12/17/2013 @ 04:58am

Bill - I remember that one time that you said the same thing a couple hours ago.

Posted by DarinRG on Tuesday, 12/17/2013 @ 05:05am

A few thoughts:

Okay class overall. Nirvana and Ronstadt were pretty much givens. Hall and Oates and Gabriel were likely and Cat is a surprise. I'm glad KISS finally gets their due although I'm far from a fan. The Hall of Fame just seemed incomplete without them. Now, the biggest outgoing snub is definitely Deep Purple and hopefully that can be rectified next year.

This is a bitter snub for Chic. I thought this would be the year. The timing was right (nom #8, no internal competition with Donna Summer, Nile beating his own illness and raising his profile with Get Lucky's ubiquity).

I was also hoping NWA and Link Wray could pull it off this year. Hopefully, Gangsta Rap isn't the new Heavy Metal and NWA gets inducted relatively soon. Wray would've been nice but I hope he keeps getting nominated and/or opens the door for Dick Dale, which I think is an even bigger snub. The Zombies would've also been cool. Of the remaining British Invasion acts, I think only them and The Monkees are the two that would deserve induction (Certainly moreso than the already inducted Small Faces/Faces).

It's interesting to note that this is the first time since the Hall's inception that there has been no predominantly African-American inductee (the only one is Clarence Clemons?). This plus, Linda Ronstadt being the only prominent female inductee and it's one of the whole least well-rounded classes.

I wonder how these year's inductees influence next year's nominations. Seems like the Hall is finally ready to embrace the '80s. Are we getting more alternative fare like The Smiths or The Cure again or maybe the Hall only likes the mainstream acts. Janet Jackson, Whitney Houston or Phil Collins perhaps.

It's also evident that all singer-songwriters must eventually get in. The sentiment seems to bode well for Warren Zevon who appeared in RS's biggest snub list this year. Or perhaps Linda Ronstadt's induction gives Gram Parsons another push. If they're looking for a woman, then Carly Simon and Carole King look good.

I'm really glad prog has been on a roll with nominees recently but it seems like it's at the expense of heavy metal. As big a snub as Yes or Jethro Tull are, I think Judas Priest and Iron Maiden are probably even more glaring.

Now that both Rush and KISS have been inducted, seems like the time is right for Deep Purple next year. I wonder which hard rock band will be nominated alongside them? Will Bon Jovi return to the ballot or will a band like Def Leppard finally get a nod.

With every passing year and every big snub getting their due, it seems like criticism towards the Hall is diminishing? Sure, there's still a lot of hate getting flung towards it but with the major fanbases getting appeased one by one (Alice Cooper, Rush, KISS) it feels like they are listening and going in the right direction. It seems like they've found a working formula.

Finally, the side categories are still getting the shaft. Sure these are okay inductees overall (although I would've liked to have seen the Belmonts and the Wailers alongside the E Street Band). But they keep ignoring glaring snubs like Wolfman Jack and Don Cornelius, Sister Rosetta Tharpe and Wynonie Harris, Glen Campbell and Billy Preston, etc. It's the one thing they REALLY need to work on as they seem to be improving with everything else. And with the ceremony not being live, they certainly have time for these artists to be considered for the show.

Posted by rockstar23 on Tuesday, 12/17/2013 @ 06:38am

Holy soft rock 2014! Good class in general, although the lack of Yes, Deep Purple and/or Chic is disappointing.

Posted by Josh on Tuesday, 12/17/2013 @ 07:45am

Eddie Trunk must be ecstatic now. Hopefully, Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley will finally make an appearance on "That Metal Show." Who will induct KISS? Dee Snider, Garth Brooks? ?

I am relieved to see that Peter Gabriel was finally inducted, I was hoping that two more of his "progressive rock" cohorts (Yes, Deep Purple) would have joined him, though. Next year, it may become even more competitive, if The Moody Blues and Duran Duran get nominated.

I think that "Live At Daryl's House" had played a huge role in Hall & Oates induction.

On a more positive note, I agree with the idea that the inductions of Linda Ronstadt and Cat Stevens may open the doors to the nominations of Warren Zevon, Jim Croce and Carly Simon.

Hopefully, next year, will have a better and more diverse class.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Tuesday, 12/17/2013 @ 08:43am

Peter Gabriel, Kiss and Nirvana will add to the votes for Yes and Deep Purple next year! If you are a two-time inductee, do you get to vote twice? I'm going to email Greg Harris and Terry Stewart that question.

Posted by Roy on Tuesday, 12/17/2013 @ 08:58am

Would have liked Yes, Deep Purple and Chic. Kiss is fine despite their whining. Nirvana was a given. Gabriel is OK. Cat Stevens continues the singer-songwriter trend.

Linda Ronstadt is objectively indefensible. She sold some records and that's about it. A forgotten and forgettable artist. But the fix was in just by her nomination. The R&RHF didn't have a sudden epiphany about her supposed merits after decades of omission. It's just that she doesn't deserve to be there. But it won't matter. A shark jumping moment though. At least so many other female artists got in before her. Sigh.

Posted by astrodog on Tuesday, 12/17/2013 @ 09:43am

"This is one of the worst class of inductees from one of the best ballots. Ain't that a shame."

Agreed completely. I don't dislike any of this year's inductees, but I don't have to dislike an artist to disagree with their induction.

The only ones I can truly say I'm happy with are NIrvana, Kiss, and Hall & Oates. The latter two weren't even in my top five, but it makes perfect sense why they're there. Every class needs its moneymaking headliners, and these serve that purpose as well as anyone. They're textbook Hall of Fame acts and I can't see anyone (other than hardcore anti-Kiss activists) disputing their legitimacy.

I'll also give Linda Ronstadt somewhat of a pass for sentimental reasons; I can see why they'd want to avoid another Donna Summer-type situation. But the reason the outcry surrounding Donna was so severe is that she (in collaboration with Giorgio Moroder) played an essential part in the development and innovation of rock and roll, and that she was the biggest solo star of a vital yet underrepresented genre. Linda, by contrast, was not nearly as innovative, and it's not as if the Hall is lacking in 70s singer-songwriters. She is deserving, but not to the point that voters should be frantically rushing to get her in during her lifetime. Still, if she had been inducted in a stronger overall class, I wouldn't have anything to complain about.

Peter Gabriel did not need to be inducted so soon after Genesis, which just strikes me as Clyde McPhatter for Clyde McPhatter's sake. It gives the slightest of nods to progressive rock while keeping the Hall's feet planted firmly in MOR, radio friendly territory. He's the safest of this year's inductees, in a year where "safety" should've been a detriment instead of a virtue. A much better choice would be Yes, who were even more important to prog than Genesis, or Deep Purple, who are now indisputably the biggest remaining snub. Yes, bigger than Kraftwerk.

Cat Stevens is okay. Nothing more, nothing less. Replace him with N.W.A. or Chic and you've almost got a perfectly respectable class.

Posted by Idlewild on Tuesday, 12/17/2013 @ 10:04am

WTF Yes, Deep Purple and The Zombies got shut out for Cat Stevens and Linda Ronstadt???? At least KISS, and Hall and Oates are in.

Posted by danny on Tuesday, 12/17/2013 @ 10:14am

Okay, never mind, I just looked at the comments on the Rolling Stone article and apparently there's still a lot of people who dispute Kiss' legitimacy. The controversy over Kiss is even bigger than the controversy over Deep Purple and Yes, which is not at all what I expected. Not many comments on the lack of black artists, but you can bet the guy at Digital Dream Door will have a lot to say about that.

Posted by Idlewild on Tuesday, 12/17/2013 @ 10:30am

Someone should forward a list of these random artists/bands to the committee for the HOF, and make them study it for hours until they come to their senses.

Yes
Jethro Tull
Deep Purple
The Moody Blues
Procol Harum
The Zombies
The Doobie Brothers
Emerson Lake and Palmer
Electric Light Orchestra
Kraftwerk
The Scorpions
King Crimson
Todd Rundgren
Bad Company
T-Rex
Fairport Convention
Carole King (solo)
Harry Nilsson
Steppenwolf
Mott the Hoople
Nick Drake
Steve Winwood
Meat Loaf
Peter Frampton
Steve Miller Band
Badfinger
Tommy James and the Shondells
The Turtles
Paul Revere and the Raiders
Joe Cocker
Graham Parker
Nick Lowe
Foreigner
Journey
Squeeze
Joe Jackson

to name a few....

The fact that these names aren't in the HOF is nothing short of insulting and inexcusable. The committee should get their heads out of their asses, and start rummaging through these names for real.

Posted by danny on Tuesday, 12/17/2013 @ 10:46am

Sorry forgot Chicago. I know I said to name a few, but they deserved to be mentioned.

Posted by danny on Tuesday, 12/17/2013 @ 11:05am

My ranking of excitement for each act:

1. Peter Gabriel - I grew up listening to his greatest hits album because my parents were pretty big fans. "Shock The Monkey" was my first favorite song. I understand the complaints of him being inducted so close to his induction with Genesis, but I totally believe his solo career had a greater total impact on music then his tenure with Genesis.

2. The E Street Band - Its about damn time. They should have been inducted with Bruce Springsteen back in 1999. Still very happy this is happening, its just too bad that Clarance has passed.

3. Nirvana - We've been expection this induction for probably 15 years now, so that takes away a bit from the excitement of the induction. Still totally worthy of a first ballot induction and I'm very curious on if/how they will perform.

4. KISS - My dad and my brother are both huge fans so I am happy for them. A lot of great classic songs and huge influence for a wide variety of artists. Hope the orginal lineup will perform at the induction.

5. Hall & Oates - I like a few of their songs and I know that they have a large following. Suprised they got in on the first ballot.

6. Brian Epstein - It shouldn't have taken this long for the 5th Beatle to have gotten in.

7. Cat Stevens - So many good peaceful songs. Hopefully this opens up other signer-songwriters for next year.

8. Linda Ronstadt - I am very indifferent about her induction as I never saw her as that important in the overall developement of Rock music. Yet I am happy they didn't create a Donna Summer controversy with her.

9.Andrew Loog Oldham - Don't know enough about him to make a judgement.

Posted by Gassman on Tuesday, 12/17/2013 @ 11:09am

lol danny

How telling. Not even a single black act on your "wishlist". Props to having Kraftwerk though.

Posted by rockstar23 on Tuesday, 12/17/2013 @ 11:20am

"How telling. Not even a single black act on your "wishlist". Props to having Kraftwerk though"

Does that make me a racist? I hope you're kidding.

Posted by danny on Tuesday, 12/17/2013 @ 11:29am

2014 Rock Hall Inductees

BLACK

Clarence Clemons

WOMEN

Linda Ronstadt
Patti Scialfa

Posted by Roy on Tuesday, 12/17/2013 @ 11:30am

Rockstar23,

Great analysis! Although I think with Ronstadt in and the more recent inductions of Randy Newman and Neil Diamond that may open the door for Roberta Flack or The Carpenters

Idlewild,

"Not many comments on the lack of black artists, but you can bet the guy at Digital Dream Door will have a lot to say about that."

Sampson will most definitely take the Hall to task for it. I just wonder what artists he is going to single out as the bottom feeder.

"Peter Gabriel did not need to be inducted so soon after Genesis, Clyde McPhatter for Clyde McPhatter's sake."

You hit the nail right on the head here.

Bill G,
"Also, the almost complete elimination of R&B inductees, AGAIN, is a commentary on everything that's wrong with the RRHOF. (and PLEASE don't say that H & O are R&B)."

Almost the complete elimination? There isn't a single true R&B act on the ballot. The only offshoot is Hall & Oates who at least mixed R&B with Pop. They would still be Pop-R&B. This was a shut out year for R&B, Soul, and Rap.

"The replacement of classic R&B with Rap is another thing that's wrong."

I agree with this. Although I think the problem is more the disregard of 70s R&B. There is room on the ballot every year for both. Rap still has the pioneers out and coming up. I don't think the two genres should have to fight for a spot.

Posted by Chris F. on Tuesday, 12/17/2013 @ 11:44am

Idlewild,

"Peter Gabriel did not need to be inducted so soon after Genesis, Clyde McPhatter for Clyde McPhatter's sake."

You hit the nail right on the head here.

Posted by Chris F. on Tuesday, 12.17.13 @ 11:44am

I fundamentally disagree with both of you on thsis. Peter Gabriel's solo work is fundamentailly more important to the overall development of Rock music than his work with Genesis. Arguably the 2nd most important act inducted in this class after Nirvana. Just ask almost any Indie band today, espcially those from the UK or Arcade Fire/Vampire Weekend.

Posted by Gassman on Tuesday, 12/17/2013 @ 12:00pm

I was just about dead-on at the predictions (about 75% accurate)!

I predicted Chic and NWA would get in but they were replaced by KISS and Peter Gabriel. But I can't be happier. In all honesty I'm very surprised about that. Who knew the voters would see the light about KISS and all the accusations and hate towards the institution would soon disappear? I'm a bit surprised about Peter Gabriel since it took long enough for Genesis to get in. Make no mistake, Peter deserves to get in and I'm glad the people that love him and that he inspired helped him get in. All the others (the remaining 4 I predicted right), I'm not surprised since most of them were first-ballot nominations. A lot of people didn't seem to think Cat Stevens would get in right away, but I did. I know, I sound a bit full of myself right now.

So why didn't Chic get in this time around? It's all a mystery. But given they have been nominated several times, they're sure to pop up ten months from now again. As far as NWA, I thought sure since they put two rap acts on the nominations list that they would put a rap/hiphop group on there.

As for the others: better luck next year. It's really nice to finally get excited about a real ballot and I can't wait until October.

Oh wait, and the non-performers: Brian Epstein, yes he does deserve it as well as Oldham (who recently passed away)

Posted by Jason Voigt on Tuesday, 12/17/2013 @ 12:06pm

This year's just meh for me. Nothing that really rouses muc hstrong emotion - though Deep Purple getting passed over for KISS is annoying.

Posted by GFW on Tuesday, 12/17/2013 @ 12:31pm

Gassman,

"I fundamentally disagree with both of you on thsis. "

I am not saying Gabriel didn't deserve induction. On the contrary. I would say artistically he takes just about everyone here and bops them over the head in that criteria. I was agreeing with idea that Gabriel's second induction came on quite quickly. McPhatter's order was messed up. He should have come at some time in the mid 90s on his solo work. Genesis and Gabriel should have both been in before this decade. They almost seem to be connecting Gabriel's work to Genesis this way. Which discredit's Gabriel's brilliance to me. He should be in the Hall, but this year someone like Chic should have went in ahead. At least to recognize a non-inducted artist.

I have respect for Gabriel's work, and he is one of a very limited group I would say qualifies for second induction. I am glad he is there, just not sure this was the class to do it.

Posted by Chris F. on Tuesday, 12/17/2013 @ 12:31pm

Actually...

2014 Rock Hall Inductees

BLACK

Clarence Clemons
David Sancious

WOMEN

Linda Ronstadt
Patti Scialfa

Posted by Roy on Tuesday, 12/17/2013 @ 13:18pm

Idlewild, do you really think that Gabriel's first three records are "safe" and "radio friendly'? I am going to be generous and assume you are not that familiar with his work.

Posted by dezmond on Tuesday, 12/17/2013 @ 13:19pm

Should have said first four records.

Posted by dezmond on Tuesday, 12/17/2013 @ 13:20pm

Should have said first four records.

Posted by dezmond on Tuesday, 12/17/2013 @ 13:20pm

The Hall has effectively erased its last shred of respectability by once again passing up a true innovator and legend like Link Wray. Even if he receives an Early Influence induction, it will be nothing but a mere consolation prize, as Link started his career during the rock 'n roll era and thus belongs in the Hall as a performer. Instead, the Hall of Shame has inducted two acts that possess no actual HOF credentials beyond selling some albums: Cat Stevens (one of the most sickeningly saccharine singer-songwriters of his time) and Linda Ronstadt (a shrill banshee who desecrated both 1950s rock 'n roll staples and classic jazz/vocal pop standards). Then again, what do you expect from an alleged Hall of Fame that passed over Kraftwerk in favor in Randy Newman?

I honestly have no desire to further discuss any RRHOF-related matters because it has truly become an abomination, and not for the reasons that rockists would have you believe. This is a Hall that has become infected with cultural amnesia and ignores the remaining pioneers of rock 'n roll as well as those pre-1950s acts who influenced rock 'n roll. And people wonder why I continue to militantly campaign on behalf of early rock 'n roll and pre-Beatles music in general.

Before I leave for good, I want to address a select group of posters on this site, which includes Phillip, DarinRG, Bill G, Chris F, Cheesecrop, Andrew and a couple others I'm forgetting at the moment. If you'd like to continue discussing music with me, my e-mail is zcare88@gmail.com, or just contact me on RateYourMusic. I personally prefer to not continue contributing to this or any other site that focuses on the Hall of Shame. Nothing against you guys or anyone else here, I'm just disgusted with the Hall at this point.

And with that, I shall remind everyone of my motto, which I capitalize for emphasis and not to be annoying:

GIVE ME MORE OF THE PAST SO THAT I CAN ENJOY THE PRESENT!

Posted by Zach on Tuesday, 12/17/2013 @ 14:25pm

Wow......

Just got through reading all the comments on here and I'm more than surprised to find several negative ones. First off, let me just say I believe every act on the ballot deserves to be in the RRHOF and I have faith they will eventually get in one way or another. This is supposed to be a happy day for hard rock and metal fans. Deep Purple aside (for now), KISS is finally in! That's plenty to celebrate about. Just think of all the protests and fan-related support that went on for nearly 15 years to make this happen. (I know, this wasn't the real reason they got in) Music fans will either love, hate, or like KISS and their music/show but let it be known: they have inspired several bands from that great genre.

Cat Stevens, I believe, deserved it as well. Of course, I think several singer-songwriters from that era deserve to get in. Hall & Oates we should have seen coming as this was their first time appearing on a ballot. A lot of people seem surprised every year when a group/singer who has been long eligible, finally getting noticed, gets in for the first time. This has happened many times over the years. Example: when Neil Diamond and Little Anthony and the Imperials first made it to the list they got enshrined right away. I don't see Hall & Oates being innovative and influential, but they have made a positive, outstanding impact on music in the last 40 years. By the way, I met John Oates last summer at Bonnaroo and he was awesome.

Posted by Jason Voigt on Tuesday, 12/17/2013 @ 14:37pm

A solid class, though the Cat Stevens induction does come from out of nowhere. Hall & Oates are also a sorta' out of nowhere choice, though I thought they might have a chance say, next yr.

Regrettable about Dee Purple, though I think KISS is getting in due to the fact they had to have a proper headliner. By all rights, had the band that was supposed to headline still been around, they may have left KISS off the ballot - which strangely enough, may have worked in Purple's favor. Still, it's cool that KISS is going in.

It would be nice if they found a way to squeeze Link Wray in to the mix. The early category doesn't really do him justice, since he's a direct contemporary. Still, if they bring him in, in such a manner, I guess I'll not complain.

I think what may be taking away from people's enjoyment of the class was the amount of diff. outcomes that could've been. Consider:

The Punk Class: Nirvana/The Replacements + others

The Prog Class: Deep Purple/Gabriel/Yes + others

The All-Classic Class:

Zombies/Butterfield/KISS/Purple/Yes/ Butterfield

The Singer/Songwriter Class:

Ronstadt/Stevens/Gabriel (technically he has a weak connection, in his more personal songs) + others

Overall, it's a fair class.

Posted by Cheesecrop on Tuesday, 12/17/2013 @ 14:39pm

The Hall website named Hall & Oates as "Daryl Hall And John Oates". They probably did this renaming so they can let people know that it's just them they're going to induct and not session musicians.

Posted by John R.C. on Tuesday, 12/17/2013 @ 16:30pm

Everyone else has something to say, so I might as well put my 2 cents in. I voted for Peter Gabriel, Nirvana, Link Wray, the Replacements and Deep Purple. I considered Hall and Oates, Linda Ronstadt and the Zombies.
I have a problem with the induction of Kiss and Cat Stevens. Kiss was always a lot of style and little substance. Cat Stevens had some good songs, but his Muslim militant ways have turned me off to him.
Am not pleased with the continued snubbing of X, who I think was the best American band of the eighties and a critics favorite. They must have angered someone in the nominating commitee.
With all who didn't get in, better luck next year.

Posted by EricP on Tuesday, 12/17/2013 @ 18:42pm

Zach, may the Force be with you, my brother in rock.

You and I have had some wonderful talks on this site and I shall always remember the fun times we had this past year.

Take care, man!

Your friend,

Andrew

Posted by Andrew on Tuesday, 12/17/2013 @ 19:02pm

I'm kind of not understanding something. The E Street Band are not getting into the "hall of fame". They are in as musical excellence, which means in the hall they will not be up in the top area with Bruce. This seems very much like an even bigger slap in the face to me. Can anyone please explain how this back handed compliment is a good thing.

Posted by John on Tuesday, 12/17/2013 @ 19:07pm

https://www.facebook.com/rockandrollhalloffame/photos_stream

Photos on Facebook

Posted by Roy on Tuesday, 12/17/2013 @ 19:24pm

I think Cat Stevens had some great songs, but the problem that I have about his induction is that he's anti-American and essentially he wants all Americans dead, that's why he's not allowed in the U.S. Jann Wenner and his liberal buddies don't consider that in their voting, and because of that, the
6th slot could've been occupied by Yes, or Deep Purple instead. The HOF never learn from their criticisms. No wonder why The Sex Pistols called them a "piss stain"

Posted by danny on Tuesday, 12/17/2013 @ 19:25pm

I think Cat Stevens had some great songs, but the problem that I have about his induction is that he's anti-American and essentially he wants all Americans dead, that's why he's not allowed in the U.S. Jann Wenner and his liberal buddies don't consider that in their voting, and because of that, the
6th slot could've been occupied by Yes, or Deep Purple instead. The HOF never learn from their criticisms. No wonder why The Sex Pistols called them a "piss stain"

Posted by danny on Tuesday, 12/17/2013 @ 19:25pm

Cat Stevens is allowed in the U.S. now.

Posted by Roy on Tuesday, 12/17/2013 @ 19:33pm

Another thing, I saw The Zombies in Central Park for free over the summer. It was my second time seeing the group, and my third time seeing Rod Argent. For musicians who are entering their 5th decade of music, they sounded like they were 20. They played old and new songs and they were just amazing. To hear of their snub is outrageous. The HOF is a sham

Posted by danny on Tuesday, 12/17/2013 @ 19:43pm

http://www.today.com/video/today/53852141/#53852141

NBC Today Show Video - Did Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame Get It Right

Posted by Roy on Tuesday, 12/17/2013 @ 19:44pm

Eric P. and Danny-- I couldn't disagree more. Cat Stevens is an observant Muslim, but he is nobody's radical or militant. He's spent the last three decades largely doing humanitarian work and promoting peace. If you are going to bash him for getting mistakenly put on the No-Fly List and for a stray comment he made during the Salman Rushdie days, I think you need to get off your high horse before you get a nosebleed.

Posted by PopeCharming on Tuesday, 12/17/2013 @ 20:12pm

@PopeCharming

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mkFsx502kUg

This clip shows otherwise. Cat Stevens aka Yusuf Islam calling for Salman Rushdie's murder. Is this a man who for 30 years has promoted peace? Hell no!!!!!

Posted by danny on Tuesday, 12/17/2013 @ 20:47pm

Maybe it's just me, but I'm just not seeing much interest this time around. Rock fading as cultural force is clearly one factor. But they are also inducting retreads and also-rans. So they have inducted Nirvana. And then they will induct Pearl Jam. And...then what.

Posted by astrodog on Tuesday, 12/17/2013 @ 21:17pm

"Does that make me a racist? I hope you're kidding."

No, but it does point out how myopic your view of rock and roll is when it is a genre indebted and borne out of predominantly African-American styles.

Anyway, this debate is old hat. Back to the inductees...

Posted by rockstar23 on Tuesday, 12/17/2013 @ 21:36pm

Interesting comments. I know I whined quite a bit about Cat Stevens... I still think he is the least worthy inductee including the other categories.

As for the E Street Band, I think they get Sideman treatment because they were almost never credited on the releases. Certainly not the singles. They almost always read "Bruce Springsteen". Pretty sure that's the reason. I'm just hoping the induction of the E Street Band will open up more ensemble AME inductees like the Jordanaires, the Funk Brothers, etc.

Posted by Philip on Tuesday, 12/17/2013 @ 22:16pm

I have been away for the last 24 hours with important matters having to attend to. Now that the RRHOF Class of 2014 is enacted, here are my comments on each inductee.

Peter Gabriel: after 11 years of eligibility, the induction of Peter Gabriel has at long last been made real. For many of us PG fans, I hope I speak for many of us in saying this was about damn time!. It now seems the RRHOF and the Nominating Committee have begun to listen to the fans of art-rock and experimental rock. Peter Gabriel is, indeed, at least the second most influential new inductee. Of all the new inducttes, Gabriel was the one I wanted to see get the honor.

Nirvana: These artists have rightfully been inducted right from the start of eligibility. I feel Nirvana represents the start of inducting post-1980s greats in rock. I look forward to whatever comes next.

Kiss: Although I am not a Kiss fan, I do recognise their brilliant strategies in marketing and stage performance. From what many of us can remember, Kiss effectively introduced the concept of Rock star as otherwordly. It is an interesting ideal that persists to this day. I do hope the original lineup can reunite one more time.

Yusuf Islam (Cat Stevens): I had never thought he would be inducted. Needless to say, I and others have been quite pleased with this gem of a surprise. Yet again, understand and focus on Yusuf Islam's deeds and ideals; not for what was once said that became taken out of its original meaning. In point of fact, Yusuf Islam (Cat Stevens) was perhaps one of the more innovative and unique singer-songwriters of his time both in lyrics and compositions.

Linda Ronstadt: An induction for Ronstadt is also about damn time!. The greta chamelon of songcraft in her day, this induction for Linda Ronstadt should eventually open up newer avenues for important female and/or country-rock artists to come.

The E Street Band: I am very please these bandmates will now join Bruce Springsteen as official Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees. One of the best live outlets and accompanists of all time.

Brian Epstein: an induction for Brian Epstein should have occured decades ago. Well finally, an innovative figure in management and publishing will join the other related Beatles inductees that is rightly needed. I do wonder if this might eventually set up nductions for people such as Sir Derek Taylor, Neil Aspinall and Mal Evans in the years to come.

Daryl Hall and John Oates: Hall and Oates were great back in the day, and they are great now. I still find it amazing what these two have accomplished in just over 40 years of records and tours. I do tend to think the fan ballot helped matters in bringing an induction forthcoming.

Andrew Loog Oldham: a decent and understandable choice. However, Oldham has not yet gotten inducted into the Revisited/Projected Rock Hall Project. Maybe that will be rectified. In any case, congratulations to Andrew Loog Oldham.

I, like others, am dissapointed in Chic, N.W.A., Yes, and Deep Purple among others not getting inducted. I believe for next year, the voting process should be differed. i think how we run our Revisited/Projected Rock hall Project should be the template for how future RRHOF induction votes take place. I will explain in a later post.

Proud and humbled and validated after 11 years of advocating a Peter Gabriel induction,

Lax30

Posted by Lax30 on Tuesday, 12/17/2013 @ 22:28pm

Nirvana: an obvious yes.

KISS is ridiculously overrated. I never understood everybody's obsession with them. Their biggest contribution to the music industry is their marketing ability. Gene & Paul are tone-deaf & write the most derivative hard rock songs.

Cat Stevens and Peter Gabriel: ok.

Hall & Oates: alright, I guess. If Blondie & ABBA can get in, then why not? But, Chic, N.W.A., & Yes were all more influential.

But seriously, Linda Ronstadt? WTF? Why? I love how every year, they go out of their way to induct some random, mediocre female artist (Donna
Summer, Laura Nyro, Darlene Love, Patti Smith)

How Deep Purple didn't make it, but KISS did is beyond me. Same with Thin Lizzy.

Honestly though, it's great to see Brian Epstein get in.

Posted by Nate on Tuesday, 12/17/2013 @ 22:40pm

"From Everybody on FRL

To Bill

Dear Bill

Having every discussion you enter turn into yet another whinefest about how every 70's soul act who ever appeared on Soul Train isn't in the hall is getting very, very tiresome. Please stop."

OK, two things:

1) My opinion is my opinion, which I'm entitled to...just like everyone else who posts here.I've always tried to respect the opinions of others here, even if I didn't necessarily agree with them . I expect the same .

2) There is a big difference in "every Soul act getting in" ....and NONE AT ALL getting in. And that's what the RRHOF is leaning toward. And I'm not the only one that has noticed .

One other thing : I doubt very seriously if this is "everybody". Probably just one Rockist who doesn't have the guts to identify himself.

Posted by Bill G on Wednesday, 12/18/2013 @ 02:02am

As far as the Rock Hall Official Poll is concerned, I had voted for the following artists for the 2014 induction:

YES
DEEP PURPLE
PETER GABRIEL
HALL & OATES
THE METERS

Last year, I had voted for these artists for the 2013 induction:

RUSH
HEART
PROCOL HARUM
RANDY NEWMAN
DONNA SUMMER

Unfortunately wIth the possible exception of Rush, progressive rock did not really gain any new ground this year. Although I absolutely enjoy Peter Gabriel's solo work, if Yes, or Deep Purple had been inducted instead, progressive rock would have gained some new ground. But, prog rock did gain their first multiple inductee, and perhaps a stronger advocate with Peter Gabriel, instead.

On the other hand, the hard rock genre had fared quite well; they had gained 3 additional acts: Heart, Kiss & Nirvana.

Singer/songwriters had fared quite well also, with Randy Newman, Hall & Oates & Cat Stevens.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Wednesday, 12/18/2013 @ 02:36am

What will be the end result of these inductions? Was Rush's induction a game changer? Will we now see the nomination of more progressive rock acts, as a result? I find it quite interesting that 5 acts had direct, or indirect ties to Rush: Nirvana, Yes, Deep Purple, Peter Gabriel and Kiss.

Various members of Rush had advocated the inductions of Yes, Deep Purple, The Moody Blues & King Crimson.

I wonder whom Peter Gabriel will endorse?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Wednesday, 12/18/2013 @ 02:54am

^ Hopefully Roxy Music.

Posted by rockstar23 on Wednesday, 12/18/2013 @ 04:49am

^ Hopefully Roxy Music.

Posted by rockstar23 on Wednesday, 12/18/2013 @ 04:49am

Bill, you say whatever the Hell you want to say (and I know you will).

Posted by Paul in KY on Wednesday, 12/18/2013 @ 07:56am

Thanks, Paul.

Posted by Bill G on Wednesday, 12/18/2013 @ 13:10pm

The voters might as well forget about Chic. If they couldn't get in this year then something's up. I do believe, however, if there would have been a 7th inductee this year they probably would have been it. But we'll never know....

I don't even know at the top of my head who has/had the most nominations

Posted by Jason Voigt on Wednesday, 12/18/2013 @ 16:05pm

Chic will have their 9th nomination the next time they're on the ballot (which is inevitable). Solomon Burke is the only other artist to surpass 8 nominations. He had 10.

Chic's chances will continue to improve, even as the Daft Punk collaborations fade away in relevance. Think about it, there's now six artists that beat them that they'll never again have to compete against on the ballot.

Posted by Casper on Wednesday, 12/18/2013 @ 16:37pm

Next year's ultimate Hall Ballot (Top 16 Artists In Our Rock Rankings):

Kraftwerk - #40
The Cure - #62
Deep Purple - #69
T. Rex - #72
Roxy Music - #75
Pixies - #85
The Smiths - #87
N.W.A. - #101
Depeche Mode - #107
Soundgarden - #109
Nine Inch Nails - #110
Electric Light Orchestra - #119
Green Day - #125
The Cars - #129
The Jam - #130
Sonic Youth - #131

Posted by Casper on Wednesday, 12/18/2013 @ 18:09pm

Nice, Casper. Great stuff as always.

Posted by FRL on Wednesday, 12/18/2013 @ 18:29pm

Bill, while I'm not this "Everybody" clown, I do just want to ask. Since you have a much more inclusive list of classic R&B/soul acts that you'd like to see inducted, may I ask where's the line? Who's "not important enough" to merit induction? I just ask because you've seen me disagree with some of the artists you've touted, and I was curious. As an example, take girl groups. You know I want the Marvelettes in, and the Chantels, and would even love to see the Chiffons, Crystals, and Shangri-Las get in at some point. But I draw the line at the Angels. "My Boyfriend's Back" is an important song, and "'Til" is a song that's been covered by a lot of vocal groups and solo vocal performers, but overall, the Angels fall just shy of the mark, imo. So, for you and classic R&B/soul... who just misses making the grade for you? That's an honest question, not baiting you or anything.

Posted by Philip on Wednesday, 12/18/2013 @ 22:24pm

...Are you SURE it wasn't you ?

(You were the first one that came to my mind). LOL.

Posted by Bill G on Thursday, 12/19/2013 @ 03:16am

I wonder if the nominating committee will handicap the ballot in favour of Chic next year the same way they practically ensured Linda Ronstadt's induction by not nominating any other woman.

Posted by rockstar23 on Thursday, 12/19/2013 @ 05:02am

Ladies and Gentlemen, for those of you who may not be familiar with latest random female to be enshrined in the RRHOF, here is the mediocre, shrill banshee (as she has been described by various posters on to this site) AKA Linda Ronstadt desecrating a 1970s fan favorite:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X2Ne9OKZXZg

Posted by Richie on Thursday, 12/19/2013 @ 12:13pm

And here is Ronstadt again. More sacrilege to a classic oldie. This time she seems to be dealing a devastating blow to the song's author.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s8i5PEhtWzY

Posted by Richie on Thursday, 12/19/2013 @ 12:24pm

and more sacrilege by Ronstadt which seems to have dealt a devasting blow to the song's author:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s8i5PEhtWzY

Posted by Richie on Thursday, 12/19/2013 @ 12:25pm

"...Are you SURE it wasn't you ?

(You were the first one that came to my mind). LOL."--Bill G.

Screw you, Bill. Next to Zach and maybe Andrew, I'm probably the staunchest defender of wanting more soul in the Hall. Just because I don't agree with the Intruders, Dionne Warwick, or Gene Chandler, that does not make me a rockist. Once again, you conveniently, (read: selectively) forget that among my biggest pet snubs are the Marvelettes, the Spinners, and Chubby Checker. I'm also in support of Barry White, Harold Melvin And The Blue Notes, the Stylistics, the Chi-Lites, Jerry Butler, Brook Benton, the Delfonics, and several more R&B acts getting in. With KISS and Nirvana getting in, my ranking of merits of ALL PAST nominees now has LL Cool J as the #1 most deserving act not enshrined, which while not classic R&B, is certainly not a rockist perspective (and damn near the bottom of that list is rockist heroine & co. act Joan Jett And The Blackhearts).

If you don't believe me, didn't you at least take notice of others when they defended me saying I was not a rockist, not of the "cult of the guitar" (pure gold, btw), and such? And you think I'm rockist because I argue with you about certain acts. A true rockist wouldn't care enough to argue. They'd blanketly dismiss and ignore and discussion of R&B and soul, whereas I argue that certain acts of yours don't make the cut. That's not a rockist attitude, that's an attitude of someone who also cares about R&B, yet differs from your opinion. And as a reminder, I'm one of the few people still pushing to get acts like the Moonglows and the Dells into our Rock Hall Projected project.

All THAT aside, I also don't go sneaking around under pseudonyms. I stick with one username. I don't think I've even post as "joker", which I'm sure several members here have done. If you've been around recently, you noticed that I flat-out called Lax a breathing embodiment (or something similar) of specious reasoning, I've made several digs at Enigmaticus, used to go at it with mrxyz and got all up in liam's pretentious business. Skulking around isn't me, and I'm offended that you would actually think otherwise. If nothing else, FRL can verify from IP address tracing that I didn't post as "Everybody".

Now, I asked you a serious, non-baiting question because I wanted an honest answer. Are you willing to answer and possibly have a discussion, or are you just gonna fling more crap at me?

Posted by Philip on Thursday, 12/19/2013 @ 13:04pm

You really do need to relax more.

I was only kidding.

Posted by Bill G on Thursday, 12/19/2013 @ 14:28pm

I've enjoyed reading all the comments BOTH PRO AND CON regarding the 2014 Rock Hall inductees. First, I'm ECSTATIC about Kiss FINALLY getting in! LONG OVERDUE and WELL DESERVED! Simultaneously, I'm very disappointed that Deep Purple were snubbed twice in a row! A GLARING OMISSION indeed! Sigh...bit I digress.

I agree with 'Enigmaticus' regarding Rush being a "game changer" for future Hall inductions. Also, it could be argued that BOTH Kiss and Rush have been the "biggest thorns" in the Hall's side for at least the past seven years! Neither could no longer be ignored for too much longer. Complete vindication in my opinon. This in turn will unquestionably open the door for MANY others who have been passed over.

Overall though I think there was a little something for most, and hopefully the diversity will grow even more as time marches on. Congratulations to Peter Gabriel, Hall and Oates, Linda Ronstadt, Cat Stevens, and Nirvana on their inductions as well. Great comments everybody!

Posted by V.F.T. on Thursday, 12/19/2013 @ 15:09pm

Bill, I do think Phillip asked a question that I would also be interested in: What old time soul/R/B acts do you think don't make the cut (leaving aside the R/B equivalents of Rebecca Black & The Archies)?

Posted by Paul in KY on Thursday, 12/19/2013 @ 15:36pm

Oh, come on Philip, we all know that you're really Evangelist. ;)

Posted by DarinRG on Thursday, 12/19/2013 @ 16:39pm

"Bill, I do think Phillip asked a question that I would also be interested in: What old time soul/R/B acts do you think don't make the cut (leaving aside the R/B equivalents of Rebecca Black & The Archies)?"

Well,let's start with Motown.

Among the Sixties Motown acts, (despite the fact that I do love them ALL),those acts not making the cut would include :

Shorty Long

Brenda Holloway

The Contours (though I would really like to see them in)

Kim Weston

The Monitors

Jimmy Ruffin

Rare Earth

DeBarge (though they could go either way)

Keep in mind, though, that Motown was like a family...and in most families there are those who get more attention and credit...and those who are sadly , ignored. This doesn't mean that the afore mentioned artists were any less talented...it's just that Berry Gordy didn't give them the same promotion and attention as he did his "A" list acts. Brenda and Kim, for example, could sing many of those "A" listers (like Ms.Ross) under the TABLE !!

I'll come up with more names later...but for now , be informed that I believe the following Motown acts SHOULD have been enshrined a LONG time ago:

Mary Wells

The Marvelettes

Jr Walker & The All-Stars

The Commodores (not Richie solo...too Pop)

Tammi Terrell

The Funk Brothers

Whitfield & Strong

Ashford & Simpson

Rick James and The Stone City Band (not Rick solo)

Posted by Bill G on Thursday, 12/19/2013 @ 17:39pm

Smokey deserves a second induction (like Curtis Mayfield got: with THE IMPRESSIONS and solo), but he shot himself in the foot by accepting a solo induction without the rest of the Miracles back in 1987. Had Bobby, Ron, Pete, Claudette, and Marv gone in with him back then , he would have almost surely gotten a second induction for his writing, producing, and status as Motown Vice President. But now, it probably won't happen: The RRHOF also screwed up his chances ...by not inducting him again with the Miracles last year.

So, one of the greatest songwriters of all time will probably get only one induction...while Sammy Strain, Clyde McPhatter, Johnny Carter, Peter Gabriel,Eric Clapton, 3 of the Beatles, and Rod Stewart,(etc). get two (or more).

Posted by Bill G on Thursday, 12/19/2013 @ 17:51pm

Ooops. I forgot about EDWIN STARR. I think HE deserves to get in also.He had a number of big hits, before, during, and after Motown ...and was actually BIGGER in Europe than in the US... probably the biggest Starr (pun intended) of England's "Northern Soul" scene.

Posted by Bill G on Thursday, 12/19/2013 @ 18:02pm

Rumor is that Yusuf Islam will join Kiss for a rousing rendition of their 1983 classic "Lick It Up". It's up in the air if he will be in make-up.

Posted by Classic Rock on Thursday, 12/19/2013 @ 18:15pm

Philip, I don't understand why you said that I was one of the few people on this site who wanted to see more soul and R&B artists in the Hall of Fame because I've never really voiced my opinion about the issue.

Now, There are some soul and R&B groups and artists that I would like to see get inducted like Berry White, Mary Wells, Tina Tuner, The Marvelettes, The Commodores, Jerry Butler, The Spinners, Jr Walker & The All-Stars, Lionel Richie, Diana Ross, The Funk Brothers and the Chi-Lites.

Also, after looking at the inductees for this year, I'm a little upset that LL Cool J, Yes and Deep Purple didn't get inducted. N.W.A is mostly a miss with me as I don't see them to be that important in the history of rap.

The big artists for me in this class are Nirvana, Peter Gabriel, Hall & Oates and Linda Ronstadt.

By the way, Philip, what is a rockist?

Posted by Andrew on Thursday, 12/19/2013 @ 19:41pm

I am a little late to the party here, but I thought I would throw in my 2 cents.

I think I share the general consensus with everyone here...this class was not bad, but not amazing. Very surprised to see no rap, and kinda shocked that Chic didn't get inducted...not sure the ballot could have been stacked any more in their favour with Donna Summer getting in last year, and only The Meters bringing competition from the R&B genre. Also kind of disappointed to see Link Wray get looked over...he was one of the last snubs from the early 60's that I really felt was deserving.

All in all though, there weren't any horrible nominees on this ballot, so I would have been fine any way it ended up. Here is what I think these 6 inductees mean for the future:

1) Nirvana - Not much...they were obviously getting in as the slam-dunk first-time nominee this year. It's not a sure thing, but the next four classes will likely have one of these as well with Green Day, The Smashing Pumpkins, Pearl Jam and Radiohead coming up. This induction definitely gives the 80's and 90's alt-scene a clear voice in the voting body, but I think it will be awhile before bands like Sonic Youth, The Pixies, etc. get any consideration.

2) KISS - With KISS now inducted, Deep Purple clearly stands out as the biggest hard rock snub. I wouldn't be surprised to see them get in rather quickly now. I could see this induction helping out Bon Jovi and Def Leppard in the future. It removes a major 70's rock band from the picture, so this may help out a band like Yes as well.

3) Peter Gabriel - It's hard to say for sure, but I think that this induction bodes well for a 2nd induction for Phil Collins. I think his induction (along with H&O) bodes well overall for 80's bands as a whole, as it shows the hall is finally taking a look at the decade and is willing to jump on a solid choice from the 80's if it makes the ballot. This bodes well for bands like The Cars, Duran Duran, Dire Straits and Journey, who have all been eligible for several years but have never been nominated. Gabriel's solo career wasn't heavily prog, but his association with the genre likely removes a roadblock from Yes and The Moody Blues' chances.

Hall & Oates - This probably helps out a lot of the same bands as Peter Gabriel. It also bodes well for hit makers from the 80's like Janet Jackson and Whitney Houston, as well as non-R&B bands like INXS and Billy Idol.

Cat Stevens - Stevens' induction definitely makes Gram Parsons a likely nominee next year, as he (like Newman and Stevens before their inductions) is a multiple-time nominee. While Parsons is the obvious next choice, it's possible that Warren Zevon (who I could easily see getting in immediately), Jim Croce, Carole King or Carly Simon could catch a nomination next year.

Linda Ronstadt - I hate to put down her candidacy, but as the only female (outside Chic) on the ballot, she was pretty much a guarantee to get in. At least one female artist or group is likely to get in on a yearly basis, so her induction likely helps any and all of the next most deserving female artists like Janet Jackson, Whitney Houston, Joan Jett, Connie Francis, The Marvelettes, Chaka Khan, Pat Benatar, or the aforementioned King and Simon. It could also help out female-led groups like The B-52's and The Eurythmics.

In terms of next year, I'd say Green Day is pretty damn likely as a first-time nominee. I'd also probably put N.W.A. and Chic down as good possibilities, especially if their exclusion this year gets any significant press (race-based or otherwise). I'll throw Gram Parsons out there as well since singer-songwriters are on such a roll. If there are 6 again, I will guess that Deep Purple and The Marvelettes get the nod.

Posted by BSLO on Thursday, 12/19/2013 @ 20:36pm

My Predictions for the Class of 2015, if they induct 6 artist

1. Green Day-Alternative/Rock and Roll

2. Deep Purple- Metal/Rock and Roll

3. Yes- Prog Rock

4. N.W.A.- Hip Hop

5. Chic- Disco

6. Stevie Ray Vaughn- Blues Rock

Posted by Kyle on Thursday, 12/19/2013 @ 21:56pm

What interests me most about next year is having two potential first ballot inductees newly eligible in Green Day and Nine Inch Nails.

There are some parallels between the two as well, in that they both came about after the peak of the genres that they're associated with, yet became a defining act of those genres to a newer, broader audience.

Punk had come and gone as a vital and relevant genre years before Green Day's first album and the Industrial experimentation of the 70s and very early 80s had largely meshed with harder edged synthpop and became the synthpunk sound of the 80s post-Industrial artists that Trent Reznor took his cues from at a time that that genre had reached a stagnant drowning point.

It's no secret that Punk and Industrial are genres that I'm very immersed in and protective of and I'm quick to dismiss pale imitators in either, but I do have a deep respect for both Green Day and Trent Reznor for being able to take those genres, at a point of quickly growing irrelevancy, as a base and create something much broader and more widely accessible from them.

Granted, there are a few people who paved the road for both that I'd liked to have seen get in first (Buzzcocks, Black Flag, Suicide, Throbbing Gristle), but I'm also a realist about these things. Nonetheless I hope that both get in as quickly as possible. Fresh blood in the hall is good and thy both deserve it.

Posted by DarinRG on Thursday, 12/19/2013 @ 22:35pm

I would add to that by saying that I fully expect Green Day to go in first ballot next year, but NIN is more of a question mark to me.

We all know that both the Nominating and Voting Committees have a terminal case of Headus Rectus when it comes to electronic based or harder edged artists an Mr. Reznor has both of those hurdles in front of him.

Posted by DarinRG on Thursday, 12/19/2013 @ 23:11pm

NIN should be first ballot inductees but I think they'll probably have at least 3.

Green Day could go either way. RHCP didn't get in first ballot so they have a chance of missing. I wouldn't predict against it though.

Posted by rockstar23 on Friday, 12/20/2013 @ 05:20am

Appreciate your answer, Bill. Thanks!

Posted by Paul in KY on Friday, 12/20/2013 @ 07:54am

BSLO, interesting comments. Enjoyed reading them.

I do think Green Day is about as big a lock as Nirvana was (maybe not quite as big, although if Billy Joe offs himself in next few months that would put them up to Nirvana's level, IMO).

Have a thought on Jim Croce (who you mentioned as a possible nominee). I like Jim's stuff & helped get him elected to our Projected Hall, but I've been thinking about how the Hall members might view him. Jim didn't put out much stuff (because he died tragically young), however I think the Hall is leery to put someone in who might have ended up being a one-hit-wonder (had he lived). Musical talent seems to be alot more ephemeral than athletic talent. If Barry Sanders had passed away 3 or 4 years into his NFL career, he still goes to the Hall as everyone could see what a monster talent he was & that talent wasn't going to go away. Contrast that with Syd Barrett, who started out leading Pink Floyd, yet within a few years had been let go by band. I read an article about him where one of the members said that Syd did all the music he had in his head & then he just didn't have anymore. I think in Jim's case, Hall members wonder if that was it (what he put out before his death). IMO, if you take what Jim did & assume that he lives 30 more years & that was it, that output is not enough by itself to merit Hall induction. I assumed Jim had alot more, when I voted for him.

As for Gram Parsons, lots of Hall members do not like him & have had ample time to vote him in. I just think they have unofficially blacklisted him (for maybe petty reasons).

Posted by Paul in KY on Friday, 12/20/2013 @ 08:11am

Jim Croce wasn't a one hit wonder, not even close. He charted 8 top 40 hits, including 5 top 10's and 2 #1's.

Posted by Classic Rock on Friday, 12/20/2013 @ 08:41am

Jim's got a name (and more hits), so don't mess around with him!

Posted by Jason Voigt on Friday, 12/20/2013 @ 10:00am

I didn't lterally mean that, classicrocker. I was writing a long post & I shortcutted pon that. He did put all his stuff out in around a 2 year period though. Big flash, then his death.

Maybe those voters don't think he would have put out any more dynamite stuff. I don't think they are giving him the benefit of the doubt.

Posted by Paul in KY on Friday, 12/20/2013 @ 13:55pm

Good one Jason. Don't shoot pool with Slim either!

Also, comments above addressed to 'Classic Rock', who I assume is a different entity than 'Classicrocker'. My bad.

Posted by Paul in KY on Friday, 12/20/2013 @ 13:58pm

Perhaps one of the unexpected positves of inducting these older 70s artists along side the newer, rap/alternative artists is that by standing on stage with them and jamming and whatnot, the hall is forcing them to be a bit more musically open and liberal on the definition of "rock and roll", even if just for a night. I don't know if people like the Wilson sisters, Alex Lifeson and Daryl Hall are out and out rockists who think real music died after 1991, but I think they'll be nicer to broadening the idea of rock and roll once they realize that, yes, Public Enemy and Nirvana care just as much about "rawk" as they do. (As opposed to entering the same time as their peers, which basically turns into a bunch of yes men).

I'm sure Simmons and Stanley will be full rockist and bitching thoughout the night, but it'll be fun to watch them suck it up when they're actually up there.

Posted by Jim on Friday, 12/20/2013 @ 15:28pm

Paul in KY - It will be interesting to see what happens with Gram Parsons. After Cat Stevens' induction, I think I'm willing to expect the unexpected. He has been on the ballot before, so I wouldn't put it past the nominating committee to give him another shot.

I forgot to mention Nick Drake as a possibility as well. He seems to have the critical acclaim, and although he (like Croce) had a short career, his catalogue seems to have gained a greater appreciation over time. I personally think he would have a good shot if nominated.

I have to say that I completely agree with DarinRG's assessment on Green Day and Nine Inch Nails. Although RHCP have had a similar career in terms of length, mainstream success and long-term critical acclaim, I think Green Day has a much better HOF case.

As DarinRG said, they brought a major genre (punk) back to the forefront and made it accessible to a whole new generation of music listeners. They also clearly influenced the music landscape after them (even if the bands that followed them weren't the greatest). RCHP, while being surprisingly resilient and standing out as a very unique band, didn't really have the same impact influence-wise. They also had a great case for the HOF, but it was for very different reasons.

With NIN, I think that they will have to wait for at least 5 years to get in, even if they deserve earlier recognition. This is just my opinion, but I think the Hall will only be jumping on the absolute giants of the 90's (Nirvana, Pearl Jam, Radiohead, probably the Smashing Pumpkins) on the first ballot.

The fact that they haven't nominated Soundgarden yet suggests that any band that isn't right at the top is going to have to wait. The hall has dragged their feet on significant movements before (rap, metal, new wave, progressive rock, etc.), so I don't see why they won't with the alternative movement, and a band like Nine Inch Nails.

Posted by BSLO on Friday, 12/20/2013 @ 17:14pm

Perhaps one of the unexpected positves of inducting these older 70s artists along side the newer, rap/alternative artists is that by standing on stage with them and jamming and whatnot, the hall is forcing them to be a bit more musically open and liberal on the definition of "rock and roll", even if just for a night. I don't know if people like the Wilson sisters, Alex Lifeson and Daryl Hall are out and out rockists who think real music died after 1991, but I think they'll be nicer to broadening the idea of rock and roll once they realize that, yes, Public Enemy and Nirvana care just as much about "rawk" as they do. (As opposed to entering the same time as their peers, which basically turns into a bunch of yes men).

Posted by Jim on Friday, 12.20.13 @ 15:28pm
--------------------------------------------------
I don't know about Lifeson & Hall, but the Wilson sisters definitely know about the rock world of the 90's, if not the 2000's. One of them is married to Cameron Crowe, & knew what was up when Crowe filmed the movie "Singles". At the old VH1 show where they would salute an older act, Alice In Chains were on the bill, & did some Heart material. In addition, I believe Pearl Jam recorded "Ten" in a studio that the Wilson sisters own, called Bad Animal Studios (I believe - don't quote me on that one).

Posted by Cheesecrop on Friday, 12/20/2013 @ 18:20pm

Bill G., thank you for your reply. I hope you expand beyond Motown as to where those limits might be, but that's a good approximation. Personally, I disagree with you about Tammi Terrell (her legacy too closely linked with Marvin Gaye even though she did have a respectable career as a solo-billing artist), solo Lionel (Dancing On The Ceiling is a classic, and All Night Long while not my fave has some solid R&B rhythms to it), and a little bit about DeBarge and Rare Earth... on the fence about both of them, but leaning more towards yes for both. I'm not familiar enough with the Stone City Band, but would be okay with Rick James solo.

BSLO, good thoughts about Gram Parsons; however, I would argue that Linda Ronstadt's induction opens the door wider for Gram that Cat Stevens. Linda's a well-known name of the alt-country-rock scene, and I think that's where/how Gram's strengths lie. Besides which, I think if Cat's induction paves the way for anyone, the next name might more be likely to be Lou Reed. His recent death, and bigger cache to his name makes him a more likely choice, despite not conveniently fitting into the "singer/songwriter" motif.

Posted by Philip on Friday, 12/20/2013 @ 20:35pm

Philip, I don't understand why you said that I was one of the few people on this site who wanted to see more soul and R&B artists in the Hall of Fame because I've never really voiced my opinion about the issue.

By the way, what is a rockist?

Posted by Andrew on Friday, 12/20/2013 @ 22:11pm

Andrew, I guess I read into your posts a bit more than I should have. You're not really denying it, ,either. If I'm mistaken, I apologize. As for "what's a rockist?" Neckbeard is back. Read his posts and you'll get the picture. Put in oversimplified terms: if you think Aretha Franklin or James Brown shouldn't be in the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame because soul is not rock...rockist.

Posted by Philip on Friday, 12/20/2013 @ 23:30pm

You don't even have to stop at Aretha and James. Rockists will generally find a reason that any predominantly black genre doesn't make the cut.

They will generally infer by their wishlists that that the term "Rock & Roll" only applies to Prog, Metal and 70s Vanilla Rock with maybe a few 60s Poto-prog, Proto-metal and Proto-vanilla rock bands thrown in to add some depth and diversity.

Posted by DarinRG on Friday, 12/20/2013 @ 23:56pm

Am I the only one here who finds the term "rockist" a bit silly? I don't deny that there are folks who feel that the RnRHOF should be predominantly rock and rollers, but the effort to create a derogatory "-ist" term for them is quite funny to me. Of all the -ists on the planet, rockists should be the least of our worries. LOL.

Posted by Classic Rock on Saturday, 12/21/2013 @ 00:52am

Correct me if I'm wrong, but I thought that the purpose of this site was to determine who DESERVES to be in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame....not who DOESN'T .

Posted by Bill G on Saturday, 12/21/2013 @ 01:11am

It probably should be RAWKists in order to get the point across easier.

Who coined the word anyway? It was clearly somebody in this community, probably here or on Crossley's forum. It's definitely taken on a life of its own and I am quite fond of it. Makes it a lot easier to express a gripe without much effort and have everybody here know exactly what you're talking about.

Posted by Casper on Saturday, 12/21/2013 @ 02:11am

Crossley uses it a lot. Not sure if he coined it, but it's possible. And I do prefer the "rawkist" spelling as well. It fits the attitude of the disorder better.

As far as having more important things to worry about, I'm able to take care of my daily responsibilities, study the day's current events and still find time to make fun of anybody who thinks that Yes is more "Rock & Roll" than Public Enemy. I guess I'm just good with time management.

Posted by DarinRG on Saturday, 12/21/2013 @ 02:17am

Kelefa Sanneh from The New York Times came up with the term...

Posted by Sean on Saturday, 12/21/2013 @ 02:20am

No, it appears reading his article "The Rap Against Rockism" that it was coined much earlier and he just popularized it.

Posted by Sean on Saturday, 12/21/2013 @ 02:21am

Since R&B was one of ...if not the most important PROGENITOR of what is today called Rock and Roll, excluding R&B artists from the Hall is ludicrous. Why should Black Artists be excluded from being honored for a genre which Blacks CREATED ??

Maybe SOMEONE should remind The Nominating Committee, as well as the Voting Body, (and RAWKists everywhere) of this fact .

And, while i'm on the subject, one more thing: Several months ago, I told Philip on his site, that The Rock Hall, from this point forward, would use the existence of the newly-formed R&B Music Hall of Fame as an excuse NOT to induct R&B artists in the future.

Sadly,based on the recent list of inductees, it appears that I was RIGHT.

Posted by Bill G on Saturday, 12/21/2013 @ 02:31am

I think the induction of Cat Stevens proves pretty much that any singer-songwriter that ends up on the ballot will get in. Especially at this stage. There was a period in the 2000's when Gram Parsons, Cat Stevens, John Mellencamp, Lou Reed, and Randy Newman all got nominated but didn't get in. But that was at the time when the Hall was starting to get to the major 80's artists and punk rock artists (Michael Jackson, Prince, U2, Talking Heads, REM, The Police, Elvis Costello, etc.). So there just wasn't room for them.

Now it seems that the Hall is in "catch-up" mode with the 70's and 80's, a period where many singer-songwriters fit into that category.

In the last three years alone, Tom Waits, Dr. John, Neil Diamond, Donovan, Laura Nyro, Randy Newman, and now Cat Stevens and Linda Ronstadt all got in. And with the exception of Laura Nyro and Donovan, all of those artists got in on either their first nomination or their first nomination since they were on the ballot back in the mid 2000's.

So my guess is that if Warren Zevon, Gram Parsons, Harry Nilsson (another possibility), Todd Rundgren, Nick Drake, Jim Croce, Carly Simon, Carole King (who should've been inducted for her solo career a long time ago) or R&B styled singer-songwriters like Bill Withers or Donny Hathaway get on the ballot, they'll probably get in.

Of that whole bunch, the only ones I see maybe not getting in on their first try would be Nick Drake and Donny Hathaway who not coincidentally were the least mainstream of those acts or lesser known to music critics and journalists.

Laura Nyro took three nominations to get in, and I do believe that Nick Drake would probably follow a similar path.

As far Jim Croce goes, he probably has the smallest critical standing of all the names I brought up, so he might be a longshot, but to me he's not much different than Cat Stevens who enjoyed about the same amount of commercial success, and even their careers were much shorter than many other singer-songwriters presently in the Hall (when counting Cat's western popular music career).

So my point is that any singer-songwriter no matter how small their standing in music history may be, is always a safe bet for induction.

If Cat Stevens was able to beat out Yes, Deep Purple, N.W.A., and Chic, then to me, any artist that fits in the singer-songwriter category can get in.

Posted by Donnie on Saturday, 12/21/2013 @ 02:35am

Also, where is this info that many people in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame not liking Gram Parsons coming from?

I've always been under the impression that he was beloved and admired by many artists in the HOF and definitely with the critics/journalists in the HOF.

Posted by Donnie on Saturday, 12/21/2013 @ 02:39am

Of the remaining singer-songwriters in contention, I believe these four have the best chance:

1.) Warren Zevon seems to have surprisingly deep support (he figured into Rolling Stones' ten biggest snubs this year). Even Sampson from DigitalDreamDoor who is notoriously down on singer-songwriters (giving Cohen, Nyro and Newman all 2's for their Rock Hall credentials) gave Zevon a 6. And his name and esteem continues to grow with each passing year since his death. He fits the Rock Hall mode to a T. I would be shocked if he's not in within the next five years.

2.) Carole King SHOULD be an easy induction. I have no doubt that she would get in straight away if her name appears on the ballot. She is practically THE elder stateswoman for the singer-songwriter movement and has tremendous respect in the industry. Plus, Tapestry was absolutely huge and the old fogeys who vote for this are absolutely aware of that. The only problem she faces is whether the NomCom wants to give her a second induction basically. If inducted, she would be the first female member of the Clyde McPhatter club and the first to be inducted in a different category. She seems to be in the Hall's good graces, having been asked to induct other artists time and again so there is a good chance of this happening. But will they see her sole induction as enough recognition? Frankly, I think her solo career amounts to much more than what Laura Nyro or Linda Ronstadt have achieved.

3.) Gram Parsons is also a good bet. He's the only one who's been nominated before and with the NomCom's calling back of Newman and Stevens proving to be fruitful in the last couple of years, things look good for Parsons. Linda Ronstatd's induction also opens a wider door to Country-Rock, whom Parsons is almost synonymous with. Plus, he's one of the few singer-songwriters to appear in both editions of Rolling Stones' Immortals list. This one will happen soon. No reason to doubt it.

4.) Carly Simon just strikes me as a name that belongs. Firstly, she's a very easily recognisable name with a very easily recognisable signature song. She had a fairly successful career that was also critically acclaimed. She's a woman (a quota that the hall must seemingly feel every year). With James Taylor in there and now Cat Stevens, it just seems like she would make her way in eventually. It would probably take her a few nominations but I think she'll get there.

And then there are the wild-cards:

Nick Drake is one of the lesser known candidates but acclaim for his catalogue has grown over the years and critical respect goes a long way, especially when you're a singer-songwriter. He could definitely surprise. Jim Croce had a very short career but in that time he left some truly timeless songs. His name is also still fairly recognisable so that could help. Another one I could see getting in is Nilsson. Pretty respected in the industry and has a few classic songs in a fairly long career. In fact I'd place him fifth after the four I mentioned above.

Posted by rockstar23 on Saturday, 12/21/2013 @ 05:32am

BSLO, good writeup on Darren's/My comments. Excellent point about Soundgarden not even being nominated yet. Certainly, I would think Green day would get a nom/induction prior to NIN (according to what I've seen the last several years).

Posted by Paul in KY on Saturday, 12/21/2013 @ 10:46am

Donnie, I've read a couple books about that era, not at home so I can't remember the title, but I read several disparaging things about him, quoting multiple people who are now in HOF.

While they were struggling, he was not (Gram came from a very wealthy family & had a trust fund).

He was dissoulute (don't know if I spelled that right). David Crosby thought he partied too much! You couldn't rely on him to necessarily do what he said he was going to (be at a studio to play on an album, etc.).

He had an arrogant personality. Gram Parsons was sure Gram Parsons was the greatest thing in music.

He wasted his enormous talent. Didn't do the things Neil Young, Steve Stills, etc. did to maximize their craft. He skated on the basis of his great talent.

Do you want someone like that in your Hall?

Posted by Paul in KY on Saturday, 12/21/2013 @ 10:57am

"Correct me if I'm wrong, but I thought that the purpose of this site was to determine who DESERVES to be in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame....not who DOESN'T "--Bill G.

True, but at the same time, people often learn what something IS by either first or simultaneously learning what it ISN'T. If you only list those you think should be in, and never mention who shouldn't be, you'll appear as having no measurable standards on the subject, and basically advocating an "encyclopedia with walls" kind of institution.

As for rockism vs. rawkism... I'm loathe to use the latter just because the "aw" spelling makes it look like we pretty much dismiss/consider rockists to be white-trash rednecks (since they mostly advocate white rock bands), and I think that's an unnecessary and ill-behooving attitude for us to adopt. Almost becoming the monster we're trying to fight against. It gets the message across clearer, but it makes us look worse in the process.

Posted by Philip on Saturday, 12/21/2013 @ 12:08pm

"He had an arrogant personality. Gram Parsons was sure Gram Parsons was the greatest thing in music.

He wasted his enormous talent. Didn't do the things Neil Young, Steve Stills, etc. did to maximize their craft. He skated on the basis of his great talent.

Do you want someone like that in your Hall?"--Paul in KY

The Hall is full of egotists. Macca is known for his, as is Little Richard, Axl Rose, and pretty much anyone who bad-mouths the Hall on the basis of their not being in. And if Kanye is going to be a sureshot when eligible (biggest ego in the biz right now, bigger than Prince's even), having an overinflated ego is noooo reason to keep Gram Parsons out.

Posted by Philip on Saturday, 12/21/2013 @ 12:12pm

Wait, people are arguing party-loving egotists shouldn't be in the hall?

Hahahaha!

Posted by GFW on Saturday, 12/21/2013 @ 12:46pm

I am not a "rockist," I am a "progressive rock" enthusiast however, and I have been one for nearly 35 years. As such here is my list for 2015 nominees to the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame:

1. Duran Duran
2. The Moody Blues
3. Yes
4. Deep Purple
5. Chicago
6. Electric Light Orchestra
7. Carly Simon
8. Jim Croce
9. Sade
10. Foreigner
11. Bad Company
12. Green Day
13. Phish
14. The Meters
15. Chic
16. Ice-T
17. Garth Brooks
12.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 12/21/2013 @ 13:29pm

Of course, I would not be upset if Jethro Tull, or King Crimson receives a nod also, although my more balanced class would consist of the following artists:

Duran Duran
The Moody Blues
Carly Simon
The Doobie Brothers
Foreigner
Sade
Green Day
Deep Purple

I could also, accept these instead:

Duran Duran
Yes
Carly Simon
The Doobie Brothers
Sade
The Meters
Chicago
Deep Purple

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 12/21/2013 @ 13:38pm

I am not a "rockist," I am a "progressive rock" enthusiast however, and I have been one for nearly 35 years. As such here is my list for 2015 nominees to the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame:

1. Duran Duran
2. The Moody Blues
3. Yes
4. Deep Purple
5. Chicago
6. Electric Light Orchestra
7. Carly Simon
8. Jim Croce
9. Sade
10. Foreigner
11. Bad Company
12. Green Day
13. Phish
14. The Meters
15. Chic
16. Ice-T
17. Garth Brooks
18. The Doobie Brothers

I had needed to amend that list.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 12/21/2013 @ 16:18pm

http://digitaldreamdoor.com/pages/best_hall-of-fame-2014.html

Digital Dream Door's analysis of the 2014 Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame inductees!

Posted by Roy on Saturday, 12/21/2013 @ 18:20pm

I could honestly care less if Gram Parsons was an entitled, egomaniac, drug addict. He certainly wouldn't be the only person with those traits presently in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

I've always been very strict in my belief that when it comes to judging the work of an artist/entertainer, I judge them by their work and not their personality or activities in their personal lives. I don't know them as people, I only know them for their professional work, so that's what I judge on.

I stated a long time ago during a similar discussion that if we were inducting artists into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame based by their morals, their lives and how big of humanitarians they are and how good of role models they are, then 95% of the present inductees would need to be taken out immediately and we'd basically need to start from scratch.

Almost everyone in the HOF has some vice or done something questionable in their lives. Heck, at least 90% of them have done drugs at some point, some have been abusive to their spouses or other people. Some are complete egomaniacs that treat their friends and fans like shit. Some have committed serious crimes. A couple even died in jail (Little Willie John).

So yeah, a person's merit in the HOF has nothing to do with what they do in their personal lives. That's not the criteria. It's about their influence and impact on popular music. Gram Parsons may have been egomanic. He may have been a spoiled rich kid. He may have wasted his talent away with drug use and an early death. So what?

His influence and impact on music is still pretty substantial regardless. So yes, he should be in the HOF. To keep him out, when again there's plenty of HOFers who were way worse would be dumb. Plain and simple.

And I haven't even hardly listened to Gram Parsons much to be honest, so I'm not a biased hardcore fan or anything. Just being objective.

Posted by Donnie on Saturday, 12/21/2013 @ 19:47pm

I'm right there with you, Donnie, on Gram Parsons.

To say that someone like Gram dosen't belong in the Hall simply because they did or still do drugs is just stupid. Mick Jagger and Jim Morrison did drugs and they're in the Hall.

I also tend to judge an artist or a band on thier music rather then what they do in thier personal lives. I only know John Lennon or Neil Young for the music that they make and not for thier drug usage or thier political views. As Bo Diddley once said: "You can't judge a book by it's cover".

A Hall of Fame without Gram Parsons is an outrage. He not only redefined country music in the late 60s and early 70s with The Byrds amd The Flying Burrito Brothers, but he also influenced a whole wave of country-rock groups like The Eagles.

Also, I'm not a rockist. I strongly beliveve that The Rock & Roll Hall should include artists and groups from different musical genres, not just rock n' roll.

Posted by Andrew on Saturday, 12/21/2013 @ 20:32pm

Well said, Donnie. Co-signed.

I'd apply the same to Cat Stevens. If people want to debate his Hall of Fame merits as a recording artist and performer, that's fair game, but his religious views and radical comments, whether they were sincere or merely misinterpreted dry humor as he retroactively claimed, are irrelevant to anything that he did on stage or in the recording studio.

He's being inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, not getting a show on Fox News.

Posted by DarinRG on Sunday, 12/22/2013 @ 00:15am

***A Hall Voter's Definition or Rock and Roll***

On his blog, TOM LANE on his interview with Michael "Mickey" Mc Gill-original member of 2004 RRHOF Inductees THE DELLS.

In this interview ,Mickey discusses the current sad state of affairs over at the Hall of Fame: ignoring legendary R&B acts of the '50's, 60's and '70's in favor of '80's Rap and Rock Bands:

Michael McGill, who is a founding member of the Dells, sent me a remarkable reply when I asked him if he votes (and if so, who he voted) for the Rock Hall.

He told me he does and sent me this reply, which he has given me permission to reprint here:

Linda Ronstadt
Chic
Hall & Oates


The Hall has a lot of 'Snubs' and you just don't walk into The
Rock 'n Roll Hall Of Fame. Personally I have mixed emotions
about The Hall's nomination/induction process, but very proud
that The Dells, Moonglows, Flamingos & Little Anthony (& The Imperials) are in.
We must be careful less we forget Alan Freed's original idea of
Rock n Roll, which we all know is basically 'Rhythm & Blues' .
Most of your younger fans are into Rock Bands,
and know nothing about the early 50's artists that created this music.
We have to be careful that it doesn't totally, become
The "Rock" Hall of Fame, leaving out pioneers i.e. The Chantels, Clovers,
5 Royales, Connie Francis ..... I'm not biased, just truthful. I love
The Rolling Stones & Beach Boys, but I'm worried about, The Stylistics,
Manhattans, Chi-lites, Whispers, LaBelle, Teddy, Delphonics etc.

Michael McGill

The Dells

Michael once sent me an email about why I slotted the Dells so low when they were nominated. I've felt bad about it since, and having listened to a bunch of their music over the years, realize I should have placed them higher.

Michael's response should be required reading to all those who don't know the definition of "Rock and Roll" and why the Hall continues to nominate as they do. I'm glad that he sends me the occasional email about the Dells, and always answers an questions I send to him.

(all Rockists please take note...Rock and Roll means more than just "Rock". )

Posted by Bill G on Sunday, 12/22/2013 @ 00:38am

Exactly. I've kept my comments about Cat music-based, only noting that the hiatus caused by his conversion impacted his career...because he wasn't putting out any music at all, no capitalizing on his chance to continue and strengthen his musical legacy. And at the risk of being misinterpreted, I think any comment made slighting America or its policies would cause his stock to go up in the eyes of the powers-that-be, providing those comments were made either during the Ford, Reagan, or either of the Bush presidencies.

Posted by Philip on Sunday, 12/22/2013 @ 00:43am

http://www.slate.com/articles/arts/the_music_club/features/2013/music_club_2013/the_rock_hall_of_fame_and_the_billboard_hot_100_where_were_the_black_acts.html

As I said before, I'm not the only one that has noticed this disturbing trend: Check out this article dated DEC. 18 2013 ...from the "Music Club" website:

Entry 6: Number of black acts that have topped the Billboard Hot 100 this year: 0.

by Chris Molanphy

We keep trying to cover a whole year, and late-breaking December news keeps intruding! As I type this, I’ve had my reflective reverie broken by Tuesday’s announcement of the next wave of Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductions. Please indulge me a sec, because this news fits into a larger narrative we’re building about pop and race in 2013—including Ann’s comments on blue-eyed soul, and Carl’s observations about hip-hop attitudes in Generation Macklemore-and-Lorde.

Early on Tuesday, Ann and I were commiserating over social media about the continued non-induction of Chic—the Rock Hall’s current Susan Lucci, with eight nominations and no induction. What’s maddening about Chic’s pass-over this year in particular is that co-founder Nile Rodgers put out the best possible “For Your Consideration” advertisement—playing the great guitar-pop riff of the year on Daft Punk’s smash Chic homage “Get Lucky.” If not this year, when? (Sadly, given Hall voters’ stubborn anti-disco bent, Donna Summer’s posthumous induction in the last Hall of Fame class may become Nile’s fate, too.)

"Rock Hall voters are honoring the sound of black music. Just not actual black people."

While commiserating, Ann and I noted the following factoid: Not a single living person of color got into the Rock Hall this year. Among the Class of 2014, only the late Clarence Clemons—inducted as a sideman with the E Street Band—is black. (For the record, this has happened only once before in the Hall’s 28-year history: In 2003, the only black inductee was deceased sideman Benny Benjamin.) It’s not as if the roughly 600 Rock Hall voters didn’t have African-Americans to choose from on this year’s ballot—the shortlist included a bunch, all previously nominated and passed over more than once: LL Cool J, N.W.A, the Meters, and Chic. On the other hand, this year the Hall will induct Daryl Hall and John Oates—an act with a long history of soul-music appreciation that once even topped the R&B chart—so Rock Hall voters are honoring the sound of black music. Just not actual black people.

The same could be said for the music-consuming public in 2013. They love rhythmic music as much as ever. They just weren’t much interested in black artists. As the year draws to a close, not one lead black act has topped the Hot 100 all year.

That’s never happened before in the chart’s 55-year history. It’s a huge pendulum swing in less than a decade: In 2004, literally every song that topped the Hot 100 was by a person of color. This year, black artists had only featured roles. As Ann mentioned, Macklemore and Ryan Lewis were supported by Wanz on “Thrift Shop” and Ray Dalton on “Can’t Hold Us”; rapper T.I. and 2013 MVP Pharrell supported Robin Thicke’s “Blurred Lines”; and Barbadian pop queen Rihanna is supporting Eminem on our current No. 1, “The Monster.” We should place an asterisk next to half-Filipino, half–Puerto Rican Bruno Mars, who topped the big chart twice this year, with “Locked Out of Heaven” and “When I Was Your Man”—but neither one was an R&B/hip-hop radio hit. (While we’re discussing R&B appropriation and the monoculture, Bruno’s all-around best 2013 single—the Top Five hit “Treasure”—was a direct homage to the sound and even the look of “P.Y.T.”-era Michael Jackson.)

That’s just the track record of African-Americans on the all-genre Hot 100; in a way, the R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart is even more surreal: It was topped by white acts 44 out of 52 weeks this year. In large part, that’s due to a controversial change Billboard made to the R&B/hip-hop chart at the end of 2012 that essentially makes it a condensed version of the Hot 100, rendering the chart near-useless to hardcore fans of black music. The fact that Billboard, in essence, gave up on tracking the core R&B/hip-hop audience speaks volumes about the industry’s priorities in the digital era.

What I find compelling about all of the above is that there’s no willful racism or systematic exclusion happening, neither in the Rock Hall nor on the charts. In both instances, the populace is naturally drifting away from African-Americans after decades of regarding them as the avatars of cutting-edge popular music.

So that leaves the question: Why? Why is there this drift away from black visibility in our music? Not to be too grand about it, but my honest opinion is that it’s of a piece with what Ta-Nehisi Coates would call the myth of a post-racial America. Music fans are playing out an unironic version of Stephen Colbert’s joke about not seeing color—we’re cool with the idea that authentic rhythmic music can now come from anyone, and yet somehow, when the data is compiled about what we’re all buying and streaming, the Timberlakes and Matherses and Macklemores keep winding up atop the stack, ahead of the Miguels and J. Coles.

I share Carl’s opinion that ’90s-born Lorde comes at her satire of hip-hop flossiness (and, good point, Carl, rock excess!) honestly—“Royals” is clearly both covetous and contemptuous of that lifestyle. But it’s hard not to think the audience is mostly hearing, and identifying with, the contempt. And while I agree with Ann that income inequality—and hence, class, regardless of race—was the issue of 2013 both in the news and in our hits, the chart data I’m seeing suggests that race remains an unconscious barrier for many Americans. We only think we’ve checked that box.

Ann, you asked me about albums, specifically, in terms of Beyoncé—whether her late-fourth-quarter blockbuster would improve the standing of full lengths by African-Americans for the year. Maybe, but black artists don’t need help topping the album chart: Kanye, Jay-Z, Drake, Wale, J. Cole, A$AP Rocky—all led the Billboard 200 this year, in almost all cases for a single week apiece (Jay’s Magna Carta Holy Grail had two).

The reason I focus more on the song charts is that in a way, perversely, we live with hit songs longer than we do hit albums. As Geeta points out, there’s something fundamentally old-school about albums, and I take her point that our faster-moving music culture is driven more around songs. But I’m not sure I agree songs are by nature ephemeral—you live with hit songs for months. On the album chart, any artist in any genre with a rabid enough fan base—Drake fans, or Luke Bryan fans, or Selena Gomez fans—can rally a few hundred thousand album purchases in a debut week; like movie blockbusters, these albums appear on a wave of hype, then recede. But for a song to reach Billboard’s Top 10 for more than a week, it’s got to become ubiquitous, booming from cars, circulating on social media, generally being in the ether for weeks on end. That’s why, when it comes to Beyoncé, while I am pleasantly flabbergasted by her ability to rally 600,000 Americans during the holiday season to buy a digital album they can’t even wrap and place under the tree, I’ll be more impressed (and I’m rooting for her) if she scores an actual, radio-blanketing Top 10 hit from this album—something she couldn’t do her last time at bat.

By the way, one final word about what’s booming from our radios: In the parallel universe of Top 40 programmers, if you ask how things are going, they’ll tell you it hasn't been this good for the all-hits genre in decades, and they’ll brag about the format’s current variety. To be sure, radio-pop in 2013 encompassed a bracing range of stuff that would have seemed improbable just three years ago—from a kickass, late-blooming bit of Icona Pop trash talk; to twee indie-ish pop ballads by Passenger and A Great Big World; to a goofy Imagine Dragons mashup of butt-rock and dubstep. Whatever the merits of these songs (and I really don’t need to hear ID’s Dan Reynolds “breathing in the chemicals” ever again), this really is a deeper level of sonic catholicism than we’ve heard on hit radio in years. That’s what makes it all the more surreal, dismaying, and almost insidious that virtually all of our soul is of the blue-eyed variety.
Far from plastic,

Chris

Chris Molanphy is a feature writer and critic who writes widely about music and the pop charts.

Posted by Bill G on Sunday, 12/22/2013 @ 01:05am

Phillip, these were all people with big egos saying that. People who live/work all the time with those who have a very healthy id.

Kanye has some pretty good reasons to think the way he does (Macca too). They're saying Gram hadn't done the stuff, had the accomplishments, etc. to think that way. It pissed them off.

It appears there's alot of 'gunny sacking' when it comes to Gram Parsons (by people who actually knew him).

Posted by Paul in KY on Sunday, 12/22/2013 @ 08:22am

Donnie, understand you don't give a shit. I don't either. I'm trying to show you reasons (petty reasons, mostly) why Gram Parsons has never been inducted, despite being well known & a contemporary of many HOF members.

I was recaping points taken from book 'Hotel California', by some guy named Hoskyns. It's all in there.

Took this line from a Digital Dream Door writeup about Peter Gabriel, but it pertains to Gram as well: 'and who shares a background with a large majority of previous living inductees who naturally vote for their friends and peers'. The contast is that the 'shared background' (if not so good) can hurt you with 'previous living inductees' who do not consider you a 'friend'. In fact, they disliked you intensely.

If what I've mentioned has noooooothing to do with Mr. Parson's absence from Hall, what is it then? Why is he not in?

Posted by Paul in KY on Sunday, 12/22/2013 @ 08:39am

Donnie, understand you don't give a shit. I don't either. I'm trying to show you reasons (petty reasons, mostly) why Gram Parsons has never been inducted, despite being well known & a contemporary of many HOF members.

I was recaping points taken from book 'Hotel California', by some guy named Hoskyns. It's all in there.

Took this line from a Digital Dream Door writeup about Peter Gabriel, but it pertains to Gram as well: 'and who shares a background with a large majority of previous living inductees who naturally vote for their friends and peers'. The contast is that the 'shared background' (if not so good) can hurt you with 'previous living inductees' who do not consider you a 'friend'. In fact, they disliked you intensely.

If what I've mentioned has noooooothing to do with Mr. Parson's absence from Hall, what is it then? Why is he not in?

Posted by Paul in KY on Sunday, 12/22/2013 @ 08:40am

Andrew, the things I've read about Gram that people who knew him recounted (people who are in Hall) boil down to this:

He was a dillentante. Music was a hobby. He was very half-assed about his music. We was a monumental waste of talent.

Will note he ws not inducted with Byrds. He was a member. Wonder why that was?

Posted by Paul in KY on Sunday, 12/22/2013 @ 08:45am

Sorry I'm late for the party but I agree with some of you, I don't care with some artist's personnel lives, I only care about their work.

As for the Green Day/NIN for 2015, I'll say that NIN has better chance since NIN is on the OFFICIAL list of immortals by Rolling Stone and some of the NomCom members worked for Rolling Stone (Green Day is on the New Immortals List, but the Committee is probably going for someone in the old lists instead).

Posted by John R.C. on Sunday, 12/22/2013 @ 14:08pm

Was hoping Chic would get in so they can stop getting on the ballot. At least Kiss is finally in (and the annual classic rock inductee to boot).

Posted by Anonymous on Sunday, 12/22/2013 @ 18:57pm

I still feel that a special RRHOF "veterans committee" should be formed ...to make sure that deserving pre-80's R&B acts get proper representation for induction. As the median age of the Rock Hall voters gets younger, these artists won't have a prayer of getting in....and the backlog is far too big already. I submit that this committee should have the power to simply induct without nomination and voting ...like the 6 classic groups were voted in last year. The voters obviously won't vote them in....so don't even GIVE them the opportunity to reject them . Just put them in. Everybody knows they deserve to be there.

In a perfect world, artists such as The Spinners, The Marvelettes, The Commodores,Patti LaBelle & The BlueBelles/LaBelle, Dionne Warwick, Barry White, Lou Rawls,Jr.Walker & The All-Stars, The Blue Notes, The Manhattans,The Dramatics,The Whispers, and Mary Wells should have been no-brainers for induction . Why should they be left on the outside looking in just because younger voters are bent to only induct '80's rockers and rappers ?

Just as The Grammy Hall of Fame inducts songs every year based on merit and legendary status....so should this proposed RRHOF R&B Veteran's Committee have the power to simply induct deserving pre-80's acts based on merit....not giving younger voters who weren't even BORN yet the opportunity to reject them .

There should be such a veteran's committee for pre-80's Rock and Pop acts as well. If each committee has the power to induct 3 acts each per year, that would go a long way toward removing the backlog....and give us older fans something to cheer about as well....knowing that the artists ou OUR generation aren't being forgotten.

Posted by Bill G on Monday, 12/23/2013 @ 14:20pm

Not a bad idea at all, Bill. Baseball HOF has one for basically same reasons.

If you read the Digital Dream Door recap of this year's inductees, it hits exactly the same points you have made.

Bottom line, the Hall is a club & people with voting power tend to favor their friends & those most alike (in general) when voting in others.

Hope you have a great Holiday week (or weeks)!!

Posted by Paul in KY on Monday, 12/23/2013 @ 14:56pm

Bill - You probably already know this from the conversations at ToC, but I totally agree on the Veteran's Committee idea.

I think it's important for the Hall to move forward as it does, but there are still some important names left behind who don't deserve to be. A Veteran's Committee would be a great fix.

Posted by DarinRG on Monday, 12/23/2013 @ 16:26pm

Bill - You probably already know this from the conversations at ToC, but I totally agree on the Veteran's Committee idea.

I think it's important for the Hall to move forward as it does, but there are still some important names left behind who don't deserve to be. A Veteran's Committee would be a great fix.

Posted by DarinRG on Monday, 12/23/2013 @ 16:28pm

These are just some of the artists that I would like to see in the Hall within the next few years:

Green Day
Nine Inch Nails
Pavement
Def Leppard
Soundgarden
Bon Jovi
Deep Purple
2Pac
Snoop Dogg
T. Rex
Lou Reed
LL Cool J
The Jam
Rage Against The Machine
Eric B & Rakim
Smashing Pumpkins
Oasis
Janet Jackson
Duran Duran
Blur
Motorhead
Liz Phair
Waylon Jennings
The Notorious B.I.G.
Foo Fighters
Coldplay
Jetho Tull
Chicago
Journey
Ted Nugent
Mott The Hoople
Salt N' Papa
Foreigner
Steppenwolf

Posted by Andrew on Monday, 12/23/2013 @ 19:57pm

http://digitaldreamdoor.com/pages/best_hall-of-fame-2014.html

**The WHITEWASHING of The ROCK AND ROLL HALL of FAME**

**** From Digital Dream Door ****

Here's your invitation to the 2014 Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame Induction Ceremony: Dress is formal. Clean white sheets and hooded robes with no accessories other than burning crosses. The Master Of Ceremonies will be George Wallace. Sergeant At Arms is Bull Connor. The duties of Press Secretary for the Hall have been handed over to Asa Carter whose previous experience came as the head of the White Citizens Council which once put out the following flyer regarding the rise of the music you now gather to celebrate:

Here's your invitation to the 2014 Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame Induction Ceremony: Dress is formal. Clean white sheets and hooded robes with no accessories other than burning crosses. The Master Of Ceremonies will be George Wallace. Sergeant At Arms is Bull Connor. The duties of Press Secretary for the Hall have been handed over to Asa Carter whose previous experience came as the head of the White Citizens Council which once put out the following flyer regarding the rise of the music you now gather to celebrate:

****NOTICE****

** STOP **

Help Save The Youth Of America

DON'T BUY NEGRO RECORDS

If you don't want to serve Negros in your place of business , then do not Negro records on your jukebox of listen to Negro records on the radio.

The screaming, idiotic words and savage music of these records are undermining the morals of or White youth in America.

Call the advertisers of the radio stations that play this kind of music and complain to them.

DON'T LET YOUR CHILDREN BUY OR LISTEN TO THESE NEGRO RECORDS.

Citizens Council of Greater New Orleans

**********


Yeah, you guessed it. The Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame is at it again, in their ongoing efforts to deny the existence of blacks in rock 'n' roll, despite inventing the very idiom itself. Now with their most recent election they've continued their long-dreamed of attempt to turn the institution into something resembling Alabama in the early 1960's. Don't mind the snarling attack dogs that will patrol the outskirts of the Hall, or the decorative nooses hanging from the trees out front, as long as you're white you have nothing to worry about. Rest assured, rock 'n' roll is still for you, they drawl. Consider it your own private domain. Before long all remnants of its origins will be eradicated from memory. There'll be no rhythm to distract you, no backbeat to rattle your eardrums and no dark faces to give you nightmares. The Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame - preserving white delusions, one sickening lie at a time.

So once again we're back in the same foul-smelling mud hole as years past. Another year, another abject failure on the part of the Hall. For the third time in their history the induction class is entirely white. Since 1997 in fact, 69 percent of the nominees and a staggering 75 percent of the inductees are white. The overall rates since the Hall opened its doors in 1986 are equally disturbing. Fifty-three percent of the total nominees are white, which is reasonably fair, but 63% of the inductees are white, meaning they have a ten percent increased likelihood of getting in, a staggering number in statistical probability terms. By contrast black artists see a ten percent drop in their chances from nomination to induction, despite being nominated less to start with. This is for a music invented by blacks for black audiences and whose stylistic evolutions within the field, including soul, funk, disco and hip-hop, are among the most far-reaching, popular and influential of rock's many subgenres. Somehow the Hall Of Fame forgot that minor fact. But we're not supposed to talk about that, are we? No, this is the time to celebrate those who got elected, despite half of them falling well short in objective criteria compared to those left out that mere terms such as "incomprehensible" doesn't do these results justice. Reprehensible, though sadly predictable, is more like it.

tatistically speaking there's never a very good chance the Hall will get every selection right every year. With six choices from 16 candidates however the reasonable hope is that they choose the five most deserving artists with the sixth being at least tolerable. If only four of the most deserving get in the questions start to arise and less than that is cause for concern if not downright outrage. This year? The most deserving candidate, Nirvana, breezed in. That's where the sanity and common sense ended. After that it was merely a disaster. The next three, or if you want to be overly generous, three of the next four who score the highest using any reasonable objective measures, failed to make it and there's no question that once again race played a huge factor in the votes. Consider: N.W.A, who nearly rival the headliners from Seattle in terms of influence and impact, creating gangsta rap, the most explosive, controversial and dominant new direction in rock in years, inexplicably failed to get inducted in their second attempt on the ballot. Only one other candidate each year could be said to sport better credentials and yet 10 less deserving artists have elbowed them aside in that time. Then there's LL Cool J who broke new ground stylistically as a teenager, setting trends musically and otherwise along the way, all while sustaining unprecedented popularity in a field that has a notoriously short memory when it comes to street credibility. He then successfully crossed over into a much broader all-around entertainment persona which few artists from any area of rock have been consistently able to do, but somehow he fell short yet again as well. Meanwhile, all Chic has on their résumé was defining the most dominant commercial musical style of their era while being universally acknowledged as a) the best songwriters, b) the greatest band and c) the most successful producers of that time, making music whose influence is still prominently felt more than three decades later, as evidenced by Nile Rodgers guest appearance on the Chic-inspired mega hit "Get Lucky" by Daft Punk this summer. But that's not good enough apparently.

Everyone who considers themselves a music lover should be equally outraged if they care at all about the Hall Of Fame being a legitimate reflection of rock history. Whether or not their own personal tastes are being ignored or if those tastes are well represented, the fact remains that the full scope of rock has to be accurately depicted for the Hall to matter. When any one era, style or culture is consistently neglected, despite having objective career achievements that tower over the majority of the inductees each year, then the Hall Of Fame needs to be criticized.

Collectively those rejected candidates all have indisputable credentials, the only kind which should matter in evaluating who is and isn't deserving of immortality. Success, impact and influence.

Yet apparently it was none of those things that were being looked at by the voting body, who, as becomes increasingly obvious, use their limited familiarity and narrow individual tastes when deciding on whom to elect. Also falling victim to this indefensible voting methodology was Deep Purple, who edge out The Meters and Link Wray for the next most deserving overlooked name on the ballot. While the motives on the surface were different, Deep Purple were white after all, the underlying reasons remain frighteningly similar – the voting constituency does not seriously consider musical styles they are uncomfortable with if they can at all help it, and heavy metal innovators, even if they come from their preferred era, are seen as unfit for enshrinement. Thus of the nine most deserving candidates on this year's ballot based solely on their objective career achievements, seven were left out. You'd be hard pressed to do a worse job selecting artists if it were done by picking the names out of a hat while blind drunk.

But put down that bottle and hold on to your hat, for here are those names all the same:

PETER GABRIEL

he second selection for Gabriel, who also made it in a few years back with his original group Genesis. Considering how long they had to wait for a deserving induction it is surprising that Gabriel's solo career which, while always interesting and challenging, was rewarded so soon after. Of course he, as an earlier inductee, gets a ballot and is therefore allowed to cast a vote for himself, another shameful quirk the Hall is guilty of. Yet most disturbingly Gabriel's second entry is another example where a certain type of artist – a Caucasian hailing from the 70's whose work is most appealing to literary minded critics and who shares a background with a large majority of previous living inductees who naturally vote for their friends and peers – is rather unjustly rewarded. Now Gabriel's not without credentials, he constantly sought new artistic directions and was one of the most notable devotees of "world music", as well as an innovative artist when it came to using music videos, all of which are strong attributes in his favor. Yet he scored just two Top Ten Albums and two Top Ten Singles in the U.S. (better in the U.K., especially with albums), and much of his influence, including creative staging for live shows, comes from his years with Genesis, who have has already been honored by the Hall. In the end it's not the fact that he got in at all that raises questions, it's that he got in over four, perhaps even as many as six, more deserving candidates on this year's ballot and the reasons behind it that is troubling.

HALL & OATES

Ever since rock crossed into white culture the dominant music critics of the day have always been
inherently more comfortable extolling the virtues of white artists who attempt to mimic black acts than they are celebrating the originators. Hall & Oates represent just such an example. Their love of the vocal and arranging styles of Motown artists became their starting point, but their exquisite song craft and abundant vocal skill was their own, and along the way they became the most popular duo on the U.S. Pop Charts of all-time. As such their induction is not just deserved but overdue. Their image had taken a hit following their heyday, viewed as too pop perhaps, and the cheesy mustache John Oates sported in their heyday couldn't have helped that image either in retrospect, but here again the voters are more accepting of black styles when they're slightly watered down for their ears. They themselves have absolutely nothing to be ashamed of, either for their style itself or their induction. They were among the most unjustly overlooked of long-eligible candidates and by rights they should've been on the ballot years ago for their extraordinary run of hits that lasted over a decade, but it's still rather odd that they get in on their first crack at it while many of the artists they idolized get passed over year after year.

KISS

Another group that was deserving long ago but their cartoonish image and the constant self-promotion of outspoken founder Gene Simmons turned many people off. At one point in the 70's the KISS Army, their legion of teenage fans, was millions strong, as notebooks, lockers and desktops in schools across America had their name or elaborately made-up faces drawn on their surfaces. They were among the top touring groups of their era and under Simmons savvy direction they raised crass commercialization of their image to undreamed of heights and monetary reward, from comic books and Halloween costumes to pinball machines and believe it or not, coffins. Musically they were consistently solid at their peak, though never as original as those fans believed, having drawn their elaborate stage shows from eccentric predecessors such as Screamin' Jay Hawkins and contemporaries Alice Cooper and Parliament-Funkadelic. Yet seven Top 25 singles and 40 years scoring hits on various charts with upwards over 100 million in total sales give them plenty of commercial success. Despite all this it took them a long time and many outraged complaints for the group to be nominated and even longer for induction, likely forcing the commercial tie-ins Simmons had hoped for to be put on hold more than once. The wait is over and the KISS Army can at last have their victory parade, sponsored of course with exclusive V.I.P. passes for those willing to shell out enough dough for it.

NIRVANA

The only truly uncontested inductee in this year's class, the obvious headliners and the type of act the Hall gears its entire awards ceremony around, hoping to milk the insatiable lust for their all-too-short careers into sustained interest. Their achievements need no embellishment, the trio were the face of the grunge movement that was spawned from alternative rock and dominated the early 90's alongside gangsta rap. They were the centerpiece of the suddenly vibrant Seattle rock scene and made the region a musical hotbed in their wake. Their music was powerful, their lyrics insightful, and for many alienated souls they stood as the voice of that generation. Their catalog, though thin in terms of output, spawned indelible anthems, numerous hits and some of the most acclaimed albums of all-time. Maybe most impressively Nirvana's influence and impact in not just rock music but culture at large was far-reaching and instantly identifiable. In tragic frontman Kurt Cobain they have a figure who remains, even two decades after his death, an iconic image, while their drummer Dave Grohl has gone on to front the continually popular Foo Fighters and become one of the most respected figures from all corners of the rock world in the ensuing years. No matter who else got in this year Nirvana would have overshadowed them, but the fact that they're the lone representative from their time period, one which was far more diverse and multi-faceted than the Hall voters seem willing to acknowledge, make their going in with such a weak supporting cast just one more tragedy in their legacy. But make no mistake about it, this year's inductions matter because of their presence.

LINDA RONSTADT

Each decade dating back sixty years now had a figure who had considerable commercial success by mining the hits of others, in the process churning out pale imitations of the originals which offered no new stylistic wrinkles, radical re-arrangements or even needed revivals of a forgotten sound. In the 50's it was Pat Boone, in the 60's it was Johnny Rivers. In the 1970's that role was filled by Linda Ronstadt. Thus far only one has made the Rock 'n' Roll Hall Of Fame, but that's one too many. Ronstadt took the hit parade of the late 50's and 60's and simply re-released it with a different name on the records. She was rewarded for it then when they became huge sellers in their own right and now she's being rewarded for it again with an induction in spite of the fact that none of the songs that got her here are the defining versions! Virtually all of her biggest hits were iconic songs from even more iconic singers. Roy Orbison, Chuck Berry, Buddy Holly, Martha & The Vandellas, Smokey Robinson & The Miracles, Little Anthony & The Imperials, The Everly Brothers, The Rolling Stones. All Hall Of Famers themselves, yet all with mostly original material that dwarfs Ronstadt's output in that realm. Sure, she'll get and deserve some credit for having the group that became the Eagles backing her and her own early country-rock forays with them played a role in that particular thread of the style's ascent to mainstream popularity, but that's not enough to warrant this honor. In the end she was a pretty face with a pretty voice who was a formulaic artist offering very little in the way of new ideas, but the Hall has shown that when it comes undeserving candidates that is often more than enough.

CAT STEVENS

More than any of this year's inductees Stevens represents the inherent flaws in the current demographics of both the nominating committee, most of who came of age when his career peaked and thus constantly look to confirm that era as historically valid by offering them up for induction in the first place, and the voting body at large, a sizable percentage of which were either his contemporaries or members of the rock press who covered that time and still look back fondly upon it. While he had some success, 6 Top 25 hits, along with a string of Top Ten albums, his most notable hits were even bigger on the Adult Contemporary charts, hardly a rock pedigree to brag about. Though he later explored synth-pop with some success, overall he had no influence to speak of, as he was a simply a good folk-rock performer who traveled the same musical road as so many others before. His most significant cultural impact came when he converted to Islam and abruptly stopped performing, and most of his ensuing moments in the public eye came from his work in humanitarian causes. Though he was a well-regarded songwriter and reasonably familiar name the mark he left on rock history, while not invisible, was insignificant compared to virtually all of the others on this year ballot, not to mention a hundred others still waiting induction. That's not a slight, his achievements are still better than most who dream of stepping into a recording studio, yet they certainly are not equal to the credentials of six others who failed to get in this year and that's the entire point of a Hall Of Fame. To separate the greats from the merely good. It's hard to put down a man who implored people to ride a Peace Train, but it's even harder to comprehend the logic behind his induction.

THE E STREET BAND

In 1999 when Bruce Springsteen made it in on his first year of eligibility there were those who complained the Hall should've included the famed backing group he'd employed for the majority of those years, The E-Street Band. Arguably there was no group who were as much of a part of the overall musical and spiritual journey its leader steered them on than that collection of Jersey wharf rats and yet they were left out, only receiving Bruce's heartfelt invitation to join him on stage to share in the honor bestowed on him. Well, in that particular case the Hall got it right. Not that the E-Street Band wasn't deserving of receiving credit, just not official credit as per the Hall's own bylaws, which state that in order to be eligible you need to release your first record under that name 25 years earlier. Springsteen, though he'd recorded with the E-Street Band from the start, did not officially credit them on a release until 1986's triple-LP live boxed set. Hence, they weren't eligible until recently. Now that they are, and now that the Hall has taken to revisiting past inductees backing groups for current enshrinement, their credentials hardly need explanation. They were accomplished and versatile musicians as well as a peerless and indefatigable live act, and they'll rightly join their acclaimed frontman in the Hall. Whether the circumstances surrounding their induction is appropriate is another matter entirely. Considering Steven Van Zandt's longtime presence on the nominating committee, the conflict of interest is glaring and one can also see the Hall's machinations at work to produce a memorable show featuring one of their personally favorite groups. Regardless of the circumstances surrounding this, the band are among the best to ever step on a stage and will be a welcome addition.

Posted by Bill G on Tuesday, 12/24/2013 @ 05:01am

DIGITAL DREAM DOOR (cONTINUED)

RECAP

When you study the nomination and voting process in depth you begin to question the logic of having the same small handful of names making the selections each year. You start to see the inherent flaws in having a demographically shallow pool of voters who overwhelmingly represent the same basic era, background and experience. You grow incredulous at the Hall not insisting on any reasonable guidelines to emphasize objective achievement and criteria based analysis when issuing ballots. Most of all you shake your head in sheer wonder at how the same fundamental failure to accurately portray rock history keeps occurring year after year because of these blatantly obvious issues. Now atop all of that organizational incompetence add to the mix an unsettling racial element which threatens to disavow the massive cultural shift that rock 'n' roll initiated by bringing black music into white society, allowing it to shamelessly intermingle and cross-breed until the idealized musical melting pot was a reality. That was rock 'n' roll's most audacious affront to the establishment, promoting and celebrating a musical miscegenation, and yet today the Hall Of Fame's voting structure virtually ensures that rock history is being effectively re-written to represent, more and more, the type of music and society that rock originally challenged and succeeded in changing. Now it seems they want to change it back.

Posted by Bill G on Tuesday, 12/24/2013 @ 05:03am

Bill, I read that article too. I have a problem with it on a couple of levels. While the analysis may be good in parts, invoking nooses, the klan, segregation Alabama...it is not really appropriate in this context, makes the author sound a bit juvenile and not really understanding the context of history, and to bring that up in the context of a music hall of fame discussion is rather insulting to the people who lived through that era and those horrors. It reminds me of people who toss around words like "nazis" and Holocaust way too carelessly.

That aside, what would he (and you) like to happen? Voters voted as they saw fit. Do you want quotas? Automatic admission based on race? I am only partially being facetious. It is a serious question. How would you want to enforce your choices on the voters?

If someone votes for white artists, then they are racist? If they don't vote for the female nominee then they hate women? That reminds me of people shouting "racist" just because someone disagrees with Obama.

Could the hall improve on certain eras? Certainly. You have rightly argued for more 70s soul and r&b. But the hall is also deficient in prog, 80s almost everything, etc. Stevens amd Ronstadt are rather weak. But I also think the Meters are borderline, as much as I personally like their music.

He was off on Gabriel. Gabriel solo has been one of the biggest snubs. So what the proximity of his Genesis induction. Irrelevant. Both were egregious omissions. They worst injustice in this class is Yes, actually. Whether you like them or not, a band that is arguably THE leader of their entire genre should be a no brainer.

Posted by dezmond on Tuesday, 12/24/2013 @ 08:49am

Dezmond,

I was glad that Peter Gabriel did get in, but I agree that Yes should have followed Rush into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame, also. I was also very disappointed that Deep Purple did not get in, as well. Inducting KISS over Deep Purple, really?

Of course, with Deep Purple, they may need to get Ritchie Blackmore back. I am not certain why there is "supposed" animosity between David Coverdale and Ian Gillan, also. Whitesnake is another extension of Deep Purple, as well. David Coverdale, the late Jon Lord and Ian Paice were members of Whitesnake, at one point and Roger Glover was the producer.

Of course, David Coverdale is a phenomenal singer/songwriter, in his own right; he has a magnificent voice as well. Besides, who did not enjoy those videos with his then girlfriend, Tawny Kitaen? Those were works of art.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Tuesday, 12/24/2013 @ 10:15am

Happy Holidays all. There's been a bit of backlash regarding this class, and I will agree that considering the breadth of the nominees this year, the final outcome was truly disappointing. However, one of the more criticized choices, Cat Stevens, is probably the one I happiest about, and here's a little diatribe explaining why Cat Stevens rightfully belongs in the hall and remains one of the more underappreciated artists of his era.
Cat Stevens stands out as unique in the pantheon of singer songwriters, regularly more listenable than Leonard Cohen and Bob Dylan, more sonically adventurous than Jackson Browne and James Taylor. He's been able to maintain his fanbase years later despite the crippling controversy he has faced over the years.
His career essentially covers three eras. Starting off as a teenage pop star, he put out two successful albums that yielded still-covered classics like "Here Comes My Baby" and "The First Cut is the Deepest" (A huge hit for Rod Stewart and Sheryl Crow). After a near death experience, Stevens shifted his energy towards introspection and soul searching. During this time, he created the great trifecta of acoustic pop- "Mona Bone Jakon", "Tea for the Tillerman" and "Teaser and the Firecat". This new style gave Stevens his greatest commercial and artistic success, and introduced the world to a number of immortal folk anthems ("Wild World", "Peace Train", "The Wind", "Trouble", "Where Do The Children Play?", "Moonshadow", "How Can I Tell You?", "Father and Son", "On The Road to Find Out", "Lady D'Arbanville" and many more).
As the 70s wore on, Stevens continued his streak of acoustic, while still finding time to provide the soundtrack to one of the most beloved cult films of all time ("Harold and Maude"). In subsequent albums, he expanded his musical scope with touches of world music ("Catch Bull at Four"), side-long prog suites ("Foreigner"), a mythological concept album ("Numbers"), and a groundbreaking electro-disco hit that predated Kraftwerk ("Was Dog a Doughnut?"). He crafted hit cover songs from sources as disparate as hymns ("Morning Has Broken") and Motown ("Another Saturday Night"). And his was able to accomplish all of this in a 6 year burst and still retaining his distinctive, organic musical identity. Then, in a still unprecedented move, Stevens left music while at the top to practice the Islam, changing his name to Yusuf Islam. After all but abandoning music for 20 odd years, Islam came to embrace his musical past, releasing two more albums, cementing his staying power, and ultimately challenging many of the conceptions and prejudices that the world has towards not just towards Islam, but all religions of the world. Maybe there's no place for that in pop music, but Islam should be commended for at least trying.
So, congratulations Yusuf Islam on a truly well-deserved induction. And congratulations to the rest of the Class of 2014.

Posted by Josh Fitz on Tuesday, 12/24/2013 @ 12:34pm

As a fan of Linda Ronstadt, I would like to say that I understand that she is not everyone's cup of tea. And it would be easier to hear from her detractors if their comments were not mean spirited. After reading the Digital Dream Door assessment of her induction my initial reaction is: I get their point. However, if you were to ask Ronstadt fans why they love her I believe most would tell you her hits were their least favorite of her songs. Over the years even Linda herself has said many of those selections were thrown onto albums as afterthoughts to try for radio play. Her albums were mostly crafted for full album listening. Many of her hits can be better appreciated in the context of listening to her full albums. It makes me wonder if the folks at DDD and others have really listened to her full recordings more than once or twice. That being said, although her Heatwave does not compare to Martha Reeves version, her Poor Poor Pitiful Me, Different Drum and Desperado are all arguably superior to the originals. I personally prefer her Back in the USA to Chuck Berry's version. DDD also says she was a pretty face with a pretty voice. Sorry, she has a great voice. One of the best and most beautiful voices to record American popular music. I think there are many who will agree.
Hey Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all of you and your families.

Posted by Richie on Tuesday, 12/24/2013 @ 12:47pm

(continued) And I also wonder how many of the Ronstadt detractors have actually heard her sing live.

Posted by Richie on Tuesday, 12/24/2013 @ 12:50pm

Dezmond,

", and to bring that up in the context of a music hall of fame discussion is rather insulting to the people who lived through that era and those horrors."

I completely agree with this. Although in Sampson's defense. He has been annually saying the Hall has ignored black artists. I think this year's group just showed the uglier side of the corruption and lack of education of the voting body. That really just pissed Sampson off enough that he used hyperbole and dramatic flair to get his point across. He wrote something people will talk about. The problem is that, at least to me, it came off far to aggressively and because it was such a scathing article lost it's more important message.

"It is a serious question. How would you want to enforce your choices on the voters?"

I can't speak for Bill here, but I thought I would jump in on this. The problem isn't race. The problem is a lack of accepting styles of music that some in the Hall don't get. R&B, Soul, Disco, & Funk are among them. When you are dealing with genres that are largely black artists with black audiences that can make it seem racially motivated. I hope that isn't the case, but if it is I would blame the non-artist members of the Hall who make up a big chunk of the voting body. The artists tend to know who their influences are. It is why someone like Darlene Love could get in.

The big problem is the lack of diversity. That isn't just on the R&B side either. Metal has had an insanely difficult time getting acts in. Punk is under represented by a large margin. 80's Alternative and New Wave aren't being represented either. I don't think that fares well for the 90's Alternative group. I hope Green Day get's ushered in, but next year I don't think there is a guaranteed first ballot inductee.

To fix the problem there should be some kind of understood limit to voting. There should be a guaranteed spot for a R&B/Soul act. It is the birth mother, and one of the most popular styles, of all the rest that came after. No matter where you cut Rock off at it goes back to Louis Jordan, Fats Domino, & Elvis Presley. R&B was completely passed over for essentially 2 artists that are very similar in style (Cat Stevens & Linda Ronstadt) and 1 artist that was so recently inducted they could have been overlooked on the nomination ballot (Peter Gabriel).

I think the Hall has to take that into consideration. They need to broaden the amount of inductees. Even one more spot would allow ground to be covered.

The backlog developing in some genres is staggering. Deep Purple shouldn't still be out. They should have went in a long time ago. The fact they are still not in is blocking the flow of music behind them. Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, Slayer, Motorhead, et al are not even seeing ballot recognition because of it. Rap is now getting backed up because the most legendary group of one of it's largest sub-styles is out. N.W.A. should have been a first ballot induction. The Pixies and Sonic Youth are sitting on the sidelines. Two of the most creative, influential, and talented groups can't get past the bias in the Hall. Not because they are white, but because the voting body can't stop celebrating itself. It is stuck in this "glory days" idea that what one generation had was better. It wasn't. Music was just as good before 1966, and just as good after 1973. Maybe the Hall should eliminate nominating anyone from that time span for a few years. That would make everyone focus on what was happening before and after.

Posted by Chris F. on Tuesday, 12/24/2013 @ 13:12pm

Josh, I've made my feelings about Cat Stevens known pretty well, so I'll stick to just facts on this rebuttal.

1. He was a not a teenage pop star in his early days. He may have been a teenage pop singer, but he was not a star. "Star" would imply that he had commercial success to his own name. He did not have that. Covering his songs doesn't make him a star either. Especially since the only major one that happened during his teenage pop singer days was the Tremeloes' "Here Comes My Baby."

2. "Was Dog A Doughnut?" does not predate Kraftwerk. That song came out in '77, and Kraftwerk had hit albums in the states in '75.

3. "Another Saturday Night" was NOT Motown. It was Sam Cooke, who was never on Motown or any of its empire's labels. No. Just no.

4. The only thing that made Stevens' conversion "unprecedented" was the fact it was Islam. Little Richard left rock'n'roll in the late '50s/early '60s to attend seminary. Beyond Islam being a factor, there's nothing "unprecedented" about Stevens' move.

5. "More listenable than Leonard Cohen and Bob Dylan" is highly subjective. I find Cohen more listenable than Cat. And Paul Simon more sonically adventurous than Stevens.

Richie,

As someone who did support getting Ronstadt inducted, I was still labeled a "detractor" because I wasn't blindly loyal to her as the Linda Legion who trolled this site. Everything DDD said about her is what I argued as possible reasons that she hadn't been inducted. And I posted it as reasonably as possible, until the Ronstadt Rabid started foaming at their collective mouth against those who didn't worship her with every breath inhaled and exhaled. Since you seem to get their point, then perhaps you can also understand this with sober and somber acknowledgment. Since, as you acknowledged, she's not everyone's cup of tea, hearing her songs on the radio, her covers, it is understandable that anyone who wasn't immediately drawn to her from those covers has absolutely no motivation to go album deep.[/i] There's no reason for them to go out and buy every album she put out and listen to every track multiple times. Traditionally, it's the best songs that are submitted for radio play, to entice the people to buy her albums. To submit the "least" of her songs for play and promotion is not a wonderful, marketing conceptual coup; it's bass-ackwards, all-wrong marketing. Also, and somewhat tangentially, I would add that as a singer who has had the substantial success in the singles' charts that Linda has had (from Pop, to Country & Western, to Adult Contemporary), it is not unfair by any approximation to evaluate her on the strength of those hit songs, as they will be widely acknowledged and hailed, by the music world as a whole and not solely by the hard-core devotees, as her biggest accomplishments.

Bill G.,
Thank you for posting those articles here. Even though I'd read them earlier, having them posted again gave me a chance to re-read them and pick up on stuff I might have missed the first time. I think the one article should have simply ended with the description of being "unironic" and listeners "not seeing any color". Perhaps I'm being blindly hopeful, but I really do believe this is the direction where we're headed. I'd like to think we're heading to that point where we look at the inductees and say, "Yeah, they're all very deserving", without having to call attention to the race and/or gender of them. To insinuate that there are ulterior, insidious motives afoot is almost holding back progress, especially if there AREN'T such motives at play.

As far as the Veterans' Committee thing, I actually have to admit, I'm not crazy about the idea. I don't like the disparity it almost inherently creates between those that were chosen by the voting bloc, and those that weren't. Given how suspicious many already about the NomCom and the way things are done, do we really need another thing to holler about: them choosing Performer inductees that they want just because they want them in, and a big middle finger to anyone who disagrees with them, because they're in charge and you're not, so neener neener neener? We already got enough of that with some of the past N-P inductees (Wenner, Stein, Barsalona).

The other reason I don't like it is because there's no closing end for eligibility. It's not 25-50 years from their first release; it's just 25 years from first release. An act does not become ineligible just because it's been more than 40 or 50 years since they started out, and I'd hate to put a closing gate on eligibility. To say, "We'll never get them in otherwise" is a defeatist attitude, in my opinion, and it also reeks of "The ends justify the means" which we are more and more believing is not necessarily true. Personally, I simply feel the answer is to induct more acts every year. I still feel this is the answer. They're never gonna run out of worthy candidates, and every generation is going to have its fair crop of worthy potential inductees. Open the dam's doors a little wider and let more refreshing gushes of worthy acts get inducted every year.

Just my (super-inflated) two cents.

Posted by Philip on Tuesday, 12/24/2013 @ 13:49pm

Ritchie, why would hearing Ronstadt live make a difference to this discussion? few people here dispute that she has a fantastic voice. But is that enough for the Hall of Fame? No.

Posted by Dezmond on Tuesday, 12/24/2013 @ 14:01pm

Thanks for your reply, Dezmond. My comment regarding Linda's voice was made in response to the DDD statement that she had a pretty face with a pretty voice. The implication being that her voice was not remarkable but ordinary. Although not stated in my comment, it was also a response to other descriptions made lately regarding her voice such as "random, mediocre….", "shrill banshee" etc.
If you believe her voice is fantastic that is wonderful. As far as her live singing goes, in her prime, she sold out huge arenas because of it. It was all part of what made her special. If that is unimportant to her hall of fame relevance I'll leave it up to everyone to debate. Cheers.

Posted by Richie on Tuesday, 12/24/2013 @ 14:31pm

Dezmond,

I was glad that Peter Gabriel did get in, but I agree that Yes should have followed Rush into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame, also. I was also very disappointed that Deep Purple did not get in, as well. Inducting KISS over Deep Purple, really?

Of course, with Deep Purple, they may need to get Ritchie Blackmore back. I am not certain why there is "supposed" animosity between David Coverdale and Ian Gillan, also. Whitesnake is another extension of Deep Purple, as well. David Coverdale, the late Jon Lord and Ian Paice were members of Whitesnake, at one point and Roger Glover was the producer.

Of course, David Coverdale is a phenomenal singer/songwriter, in his own right; he has a magnificent voice as well. Besides, who did not enjoy those videos with his then girlfriend, Tawny Kitaen? Those songs were works of art.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Tuesday, 12/24/2013 @ 14:37pm

That whole bit about "Negro records" and the KKK was utterly ridiculous, couldn't take it seriously afterwards.

Posted by GFW on Tuesday, 12/24/2013 @ 15:21pm

Thanks for your reply, Philip. I am sorry if you felt attacked by rabid Ronstadt supporters. I respectfully disagree with what you said about singles and radio airplay etc. While I certainly can understand why individuals may not have been drawn to Ronstadt's deeper album cuts if they did not care for the singles, I don't feel the same logic applies to committees charged with evaluating her HOF worthiness. I believe her entire output should be judged. I have not posted anything negative here regarding any other artist because I simply have not heard enough of them. Of course I am familiar with the radio hits of lots of these artists but I would never say someone should or should not be inducted into the HOF until I was very familiar with their entire catalogue. And as far as what record companies submit for radio airplay, I don't necessarily think the go with "the best", but what is "radio friendly". I am not an expert here but it seems likely that is the case.

Posted by Richie on Tuesday, 12/24/2013 @ 15:28pm

Dezmond,

"few people here dispute that she has a fantastic voice. But is that enough for the Hall of Fame?"

Not even singling out Ronstadt here, but singers in general. I would think technical skill would be enough to get you inducted. Whatever instrument that might be on. Guitar, Vocals, Drums, Bass. I don't think it is the only criteria, nor the most important. I would hope that people who are highly skilled are considered worthy of induction.

Phillip,

"as her biggest accomplishments"

You hit the nail right on the head. I actually haven't ever understood the argument for going deeper into an acts discography. The albums, the songs, the performances that rose to the top of an artists career are what the general listener is going to judge them on. If it's Hall worthy they'll get in, if not they won't. I think Ronstadt was so easily inducted because the ballot heavily favored her. She was the lone female (not counting the ladies of Chic), from an era that the Hall prefers, connected with a chunk of already inducted acts (Eagles, Jackson Browne, Bonnie Raitt). Add on top of that her Parkinson's news, and she became almost a lock in on predictions of induction.

"I was still labeled a "detractor" because I wasn't blindly loyal to her as the Linda Legion who trolled this site"

I haven't come across the Linda Legion. I will say that of all the acts I have seen very few come close to touching the loyalty, and therefore trolling ability, of Patti LaBelle's. One toe out of line with them and it is destruction. Fanaticism is a dangerous thing.

Posted by Chris F. on Tuesday, 12/24/2013 @ 17:13pm

" I will say that of all the acts I have seen very few come close to touching the loyalty, and therefore trolling ability, of Patti LaBelle's. One toe out of line with them and it is destruction. Fanaticism is a dangerous thing."

m8 try dissing kitty or kanye when i'm around.

Posted by GFW on Tuesday, 12/24/2013 @ 17:40pm

Nothing more intimidating than GFW laying down the law.

Posted by DarinRG on Tuesday, 12/24/2013 @ 18:55pm

ill 'av em lad

Posted by GFW on Tuesday, 12/24/2013 @ 19:10pm

Call me crazy, but I think this is a very solid class. I think they are all worthy, and some of them long overdue. Sure, others are just as worthy but if Percy Sledge is in then how can I complain about any of these.

Posted by Classic Rock on Tuesday, 12/24/2013 @ 21:52pm

ANSWER: Because Percy Sledge shouldn't be in .

I would easily kick him out for : Barry White,Chuck Jackson,Gene Chandler, Johnnie Taylor, Lou Rawls, Mary Wells, The Commodores,The Manhattans , The Blue Notes,Jr Walker & The All-Stars, Patti LaBelle & The Blue Belles/LaBelle,The Marvelettes, and dozens of other more-deserving R&B artists.

Posted by Bill G on Tuesday, 12/24/2013 @ 23:20pm

ANSWER: Because Percy Sledge shouldn't be in .

I would easily kick him out for : Barry White,Chuck Jackson,Gene Chandler, Johnnie Taylor, Lou Rawls, Mary Wells, The Commodores,The Manhattans , The Blue Notes,Jr Walker & The All-Stars, Patti LaBelle & The Blue Belles/LaBelle,The Marvelettes, and dozens of other more-deserving R&B artists.

Posted by Bill G on Tuesday, 12/24/2013 @ 23:20pm

Sorry. That wasn't supposed to go in twice.

Posted by Bill G on Tuesday, 12/24/2013 @ 23:21pm

I would trade Sledge for Brook Benton or anything Bill mentioned

Posted by Jason Voigt on Wednesday, 12/25/2013 @ 00:24am

I like a lot of DDR's lists. I really do. but that assessment of the inductees was ignorant, and, quite frankly, racist.

These statistics are ridiculous. "63% of the inductees are white" Who cares? That just proves the Hall isn't racist. Only 12.5% of the population is black, and probably not a massively larger amount of the music industry. YES, the genre wouldn't exist without the influence of black musicians, but the [majority] of what most well-rounded music fans would consider to be the most snubbed artists happen to also be white. I can name quite a few black artists that I want in: N.W.A, John Coltrane, Charle Mingus, The Mills Brothers, The Marvelettes, Chubby Checker, Lionel Richie/The Commodores, Whitney Houston, Barry White, Janet Jackson, War, Chic, Mary Wells, Tracy Chapman, 2Pac, The Notorious B.I.G., Jay-Z, Wu-Tang Clan, Kanye West, Mariah Carey (ish lol)... huh. Look how many aren't eligible yet. I can also name about five times as many non-black artists off the top of my head I want inducted in my lifetime, because there happen to be more that should. I know that my list was far from comprehensive, but it was what I could think of off the top of my head.

There are PLENTY of past-due African-American acts that still need to get in, but in no way, shape, or form should the ballot require a black act or be called racist due to the lack of one. It is my hope that the six or so greatest eligible artists not currently in the HoF get inducted every year. In my opinion, and our collective opinion as showcased in our Rock Rankings and pointed out by Casper, the top six acts that are not currently inducted all happen to not be black. (That said, I personally consider N.W.A light years better and more important than Roxy Music at least, and they were definitely better than at least two of the acts inducted this year, but it's premature to pull a race card).

It's not like Aretha, Stevie, Jimi, Marvin, Chuck, and Ray and many others were all several years late getting in. If they were, I would call the Hall racist, but I can't stand hypocritical anti-racist racism.

Posted by Paul K on Wednesday, 12/25/2013 @ 02:26am

Rant over with, this wasn't my ideal class. That would have been:
-Nirvana
-N.W.A
-The Replacements
-KISS
-Deep Purple
-Yes

I do completely agree that the powers that be are very biased against some genres that branch off the beaten path of rock, such as variations of metal, punk, alternative rock, disco, funk, and citing country/western as a proper influence. I will be first in the protest line to expand the Hall's diversity, but I absolutely do not believe that race itself is much of an issue when it comes to their bias. and certainly gender is not, as there is a token female act in practically every class. (In my opinion there are about 20 all-male artists that are better than the best uninducted female artist, but the moment they go a class without a lady, they'll be called sexist.) If they would stop being so conformist and generationally-arrogant, they would make way more people happy in the long-run than the ones they are afraid to offend.

Posted by Paul K on Wednesday, 12/25/2013 @ 02:37am

That would've been a better class. Now if you take that and replace Kiss and Yes with Paul Butterfield and Link Wray, you've got about the best class that this year's ballot could've produced.

Posted by DarinRG on Wednesday, 12/25/2013 @ 03:09am

As I've said often, Linda Ronstadt has no business being inducted, period. We knew the fix was in the moment they nominated her, and she had friends in high places, but other than selling some records, and not in world shattering numbers, she did nothing to deserve it. By that standard every commercially successful artist deserves it. Really she was everything the R&RHF even in its stated criteria was supposed not to be about: uncreative, riskless, safe, middle of the road. And her non-existing legacy shows it. Her supporters piled up so much bs (first female rock superstar [LOL], country rock pioneer [LOL], etc.), that it was absurd. When an artist deserves an honor it is apparent. When they don't, spin like mad. The only consolation for a token induction is that we now have a strong candidate for the worst artist ever inducted. Now her fans can say she is in the R&RHF. But the ship sailed a long time ago.

I said this initially, but interest seems very muted in general. Rock is just not a powerful cultural force any more. And I doubt this can be reversed. But it would be nice if the R&RHF got more creative. Rock became the music of old fogies. And I've always thought that at least one thing that contributed to this was the reactionary attitudes of music critics. But the damage is already done.

Posted by astrodog on Wednesday, 12/25/2013 @ 10:15am

Paul K,

I do like your list a little bit better, but if it would be much better if you would replace N.W.A. with The Meters, Kiss with Peter Gabriel and The Replacements with Hall & Oates, thereby obtaining the following list:

Nirvana
The Meters
Peter Gabriel
Hall & Oates
Deep Purple
Yes

Now, that would be a much better liist, in my honest opinion. We could also replace N.W.A. with Chic, and that would have worked also:

Nirvana
Chic
Peter Gabriel
Hall & Oates
Deep Purple
Yes

Reverse the order and I will like the resulting list, the best:

Yes
Deep Purple
Hall & Oates
Peter Gabriel
Chic
Nirvana

Posted by Enigmaticus on Wednesday, 12/25/2013 @ 10:16am

To all those deteractors who do not like "progressive rock," bands: I say, "I Wish You Well!"

Posted by Enigmaticus on Wednesday, 12/25/2013 @ 10:22am

To all those detractors who do not like progressive rock: I say, "I Wish You Well!"

Posted by Enigmaticus on Wednesday, 12/25/2013 @ 10:26am

Astrodog,

I could not agree more. Having Linda Ronstadt inducted over Carly Simon, Carole King, Stevie Nicks (as a solo artist), Pat Benatar, Kate Bush, or even Sade, was disheartening to say the least.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Wednesday, 12/25/2013 @ 10:32am

I don't know if there was an "ideal class" for me. Other than KISS and Nirvana, I don't think there was an act that was in my top six for both objective merits and personal taste. So, with KISS and Nirvana both in, I could call it good enough (even though Cat Stevens ranked dead last in both lists for me).

Posted by Philip on Wednesday, 12/25/2013 @ 10:42am

Without Linda Ronstadt, there would probably be no Eagles.

Posted by Jason Voigt on Wednesday, 12/25/2013 @ 11:03am

This is a great class. I've said it before and I'll say it again: I believe all the others on the ballot will eventually get inducted. Hopefully next year will be 'Heinz 57' year. By the way, I find it hard to believe Green Day will be eligible for next year. Even though their breakout year was 1994, its always easy to forget they released their first record in the 80s.

To me, an ideal class would be one with at least 7 inductees. Like all the others, I really don't like how they've slimmed it down over the years.

Posted by Jason Voigt on Wednesday, 12/25/2013 @ 11:06am

Jason,

I hate to disagree, but I would definitely not consider this to be a great class, In my honest opinion, the 2013 inductees were significantly better. Of course, the inductions of Hall & Oates and Peter Gabriel (as a solo artist) were long overdue. I was extremely disappointed that neither Yes, nor Deep Purple were inducted, however.

I do agree with you that 7 would be a much better number of inductees.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Wednesday, 12/25/2013 @ 11:34am

I think that the major complaint is that, while the Hall was once very fair and equitable about R&B artists getting inducted in it's early years, in recent years (since 2005 or so) it's been sort of of a "rockist's paradise" . Or, to quote Janet Jackson: "What have you done for me LATELY".

Posted by Bill G on Wednesday, 12/25/2013 @ 11:52am

From Wikipedia

Dionne Warwick (born December 12, 1940) is an American singer, actress and TV show host, who became a United Nations Global Ambassador for the Food and Agriculture Organization, and a United States Ambassador of Health.

Having been in a partnership with songwriters Burt Bacharach and Hal David, Warwick ranks among the 40 biggest hit makers of the entire rock era (1955–2012), based on the Billboard Hot 100 Pop Singles Charts. Dionne Warwick is second only to Aretha Franklin as the most-charted female vocalist of ALL TIME with 56 of Dionne's singles making the Billboard Hot 100 between 1962 and 1998


So, with credentials like THESE , how did Linda Ronstadt get into the Hall BEFORE HER ??

And....don't give me that crap about her being "too pop" . You can't GET more "pop" then ABBA or Ronstadt....but that didn't keep THEM out !!

Posted by Bill G on Wednesday, 12/25/2013 @ 12:15pm

While Linda beats Dionne in the number of Grammy Awards won, Dionne beats Linda in the number of OVERALL CAREER AWARDS WON. Dionne also has more songs in the GRAMMY HALL OF FAME (Warwick-3, Ronstadt,0), and 2 songs in The R.I.A.A.'s "Songs Of The Century) vs. Ronstadt's 0 :

From Wikipedia:

Awards and honors (Dionne Warwick)

Grammy Awards

Year Recipient Award Result

1965 "I Say a Little Prayer" Female Contemporary Vocal Solo Nominated

"Walk On By" Best Rhythm & Blues Recording Nominated

1968 "Alfie" Best Vocal Performance, Female Nominated

"I Say a Little Prayer" Best Contemporary Female Solo Vocal Performance Nominated

1969 "Do You Know the Way to San Jose" Best Contemporary Pop Vocal Performance, Female Won

1970 "This Girl's in Love with You" Best Contemporary Vocal Performance, Female Nominated

1971 "I'll Never Fall in Love Again" Best Contemporary Vocal Performance, Female Won

1975 "Then Came You" (with The Spinners) Best Pop Vocal Performance by a Duo, Group or Chorus Nominated

1980 "I'll Never Love This Way Again" Best Pop Vocal Performance, Female Won

"Déjà Vu" Best R&B Vocal Performance, Female Won

1987 "That's What Friends Are For"
(with Elton John, Gladys Knight & Stevie Wonder) Record of the Year Nominated

Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal Won

Friends Best Pop Vocal Performance, Female Nominated

1992 "Superwoman" (with Gladys Knight & Patti LaBelle) Best R&B Vocal Performance by a Duo or Group Nominated

2014 Now Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album Pending

Grammy Hall of Fame
Year Title Genre Label Year Inducted


1967 "Alfie" pop (single) Scepter 2008

1962 "Don't Make Me Over" pop (single) Scepter 2000

1964 "Walk On By" pop (single) Scepter 1998

American Music Awards

Year Category Result
1987 Special Recognition Award: "That's What Friends Are For" Honoree

Billboard Music Awards
Year Category Result
1987 #1 Single of the Year: "That's What Friends Are For" Honoree

RIAA
Year Category Result
1964 Songs of the Century: "Walk on By" Honoree

1985 Songs of the Century: "That's What Friends Are For"

People's Choice Awards:
Year Category Result
1975 Favorite Female Singer Won

NAACP Image Awards
Year Category Result
1986 Entertainer of the Year Honoree

ASCAP Awards
Year Category Result
1998 Lifetime Achievement Award Honoree

2002 Heroes Award
Rhythm & Blues Foundation

Year Category Result
2003 Lifetime Achievement Award Honoree

Women's World Awards
Year Category Result
2004 Lifetime Achievement Award Honoree

Trumpet Awards
Year Category Result
2007 Trumpet Living Legend Award Honoree

NARM Best Seller Awards
Year Category Result
1964 #1 Pop Vocalist Female
(Won six-consecutive years from 1966 to 1971)
Won
1966
1967
1968
1969
1970
1971

Cash Box Magazine:

Year Category Result
1964 Cash Box Magazine
(Best Sellers) #1 Female Vocalist Won

1966 #1 R&B Female Vocalist
#2 Pop Female Vocalist

1967 #2 Pop, #2 R&B
1968
1969 #1 Female Vocalist — Albums and Singles
1970
1971
1969 Radio's Most Programmed Female Vocalist
1970
1971

National Academy of Popular Music/Songwriters Hall of Fame — Hitmaker Award-2001

Woman of the Year-1969 Harvard Hasty Pudding Society

Cannes Film Festival Palme d'Or Nominee-Slaves-1969

Playboy Magazine Music Poll-Top Female Vocalist-1971;Playboy's All-Star Band for 1971-Female Vocals

National Association of Television and Radio Announcers-#1 R&B Vocalist-1971

Memphis Music Awards-Outstanding Female Vocalist-1971

WINNER-1980 Tokyo Intl POP Music Festival for her performance of "FEELING OLD FEELINGS" from her Arista debut album "Dionne" produced by Barry Manilow. The song was awarded Song of the Year (the equivalent of the Japanese Grammy)

Mayors Award and Key to the City-San Jose, California-1968

ACE Award Nominee for "Sisters in the Name of Love" — Dionne Warwick (HBO-1987)

United States Ambassador of Health — Appointed by Ronald Reagan-1987

Kleenex American Hero Award-1987

American Society of Young Musicians — Luminary Award-1997

National Music Foundation — Cultural Impact Award-1998

United Nations Global Ambassador for the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)-appointed 2002

NABFEME Shero Award (The National Association of Black Female Executives in Music & Entertainment)-2006

The Temecula Valley International Film & Music Festival-Lifetime Career Achievement Award-2006
Miami Dade Life Time Achievement Award-2007 and Dionne Warwick Day-May 25

Starlight Foundation — Humanitarian of the Year Award

Bella Rackoff Women in Film — Humanitarian Award
Lincoln Elementary School in East Orange, NJ, honored her by renaming it to the Dionne Warwick Institute of Economics and Entrepreneurship.

Posted by Bill G on Wednesday, 12/25/2013 @ 12:35pm

Paul K,

" that assessment of the inductees was ignorant, and, quite frankly, racist. "

I agree with that. I tend to agree with Sampson in general (he actually is a knowledge base on music), but the article was inflammatory.

I think that the Hall's problem is diversity of sound. More specifically lack of understanding in listening base, especially those bases that were listening to the radio anytime before 1965 or after 1975. It wasn't the lack of black artists, or even artists of color in general (with Ronstadt's Hispanic heritage being notable). It was the lack of artists from the R&B market that should have been more largely focused on.

R&B is, and was, always a fully viable market share. It's creation is so fundamentally important to everything that came after that it deserves that recognition. It doesn't have to be every year. But it should be nearly every year. The Hall ushers in a singer-songwriter every year. That style was never as essential as the R&B acts being passed over. It is even more inexcusable when the pass over of any R&B act isn't offset by the inclusion of some other under represented genre. Rap is a perfect example. 1980s Alternative Rock is probably a better example.

All of the inductees this year deserved induction. To some extent they were all snubs, with the exception of Nirvana. However taking this class as a stand alone class none of them were the biggest snubs out there. They might have been notably large names out of the Hall, and ones with fan bases that are fanatics (Especially in KISS and Ronstadt's case). They were actually on a ballot with much better examples of snubs. Chic now standing as possibly the biggest snub out right now. Deep Purple is gaining ground, N.W.A. is starting to appear to do the same, and LL Cool J might very well become the Solomon Burke of the next decade.

I think where Sampson comes from with the racist implications is that historically the industry discriminated against black audiences and black artists (not to mention women). When you take what the industry did, which often was incredibly racist, and then see an industry idea like the Hall. It can be frustrating. Sampson just went overboard this year in trying to point out a concern.

A R&B spot every year shouldn't be a prerequisite. It shouldn't be this dry spell that has started to happen either. R&B is a big genre. It is full of the more outrageous snubs. It is a music that has quite a bit of historical merit to it. It isn't defined by race, or shouldn't be at least. The most important thing is that the great music from it is considered on an even playing field, and that the audience for that music sees themselves when they look at the Hall. Rock was always the great equalizer of genres, culturally and musically. The voting body seems to be forgetting that, I am not sure the nominating committee ever recognized it.

Posted by Chris F. on Wednesday, 12/25/2013 @ 12:39pm

Bill G.,

While I do agree that Dionne Warwick would be a more deserving choice than Linda Ronstadt, I was wondering how you feel about Sade? Acoording to Wikipedia, she is the most successful solo female artist in British History:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Helen_Folasade_Adu

Posted by Enigmaticus on Wednesday, 12/25/2013 @ 12:42pm

Dionne Warwick is one of the greatest female singers in American Pop Music History and another of my favorites. As the RRHOF has evolved into more of a Pop Music HOF, she definitely deserves to be enshrined along with Ronstadt. The problem is she has no association to traditional R&R music. Ronstadt actually recorded lots of R&R songs. I believe she should and will make it in someday. But really, at some point this institution needs to change its name to be more reflective of it's Pop leanings as of late.

Posted by Richie on Wednesday, 12/25/2013 @ 12:48pm

I Love Sade (for more than just her music) . LOL.

Posted by Bill G on Wednesday, 12/25/2013 @ 12:49pm

My personal list would be different than the Rock Hall's choices.

However, I feel that these are the 8 acts who are more likely to get inducted in 2015:

1. Duran Duran
2. Yes, or The Moody Blues
3. Carly Simon
4. Sade
5. Green Day
6. Doobie Brothers
7. Bad Company, or Foreigner
8. Deep Purple

Posted by Enigmaticus on Monday, 04.29.13 @ 00:56am

Posted by Enigmaticus on Wednesday, 12/25/2013 @ 12:57pm

Of course, if the Rock Hall is following William Goodman's Fuse Snub List, which consists of the following artists, then either T. Rex, or Chicago could be next. His list had included the following artists, by the way:


1. Hall & Oates
2. Rush
3. Chicago
4. T. Rex
5. KISS

If they are following Kevin Davis' list from The Rock Office, then perhaps either: The Moody Blues, Chicago, Jethro Tull, or The Monkees could be next.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Wednesday, 12/25/2013 @ 13:09pm

Or perhaps, The Electric Light Orchestra.

Here is a link to that list:

http://therockoffice.tumblr.com/topten

Posted by Enigmaticus on Wednesday, 12/25/2013 @ 15:21pm

ABBA is indeed pristine pop, but with songs like "Waterloo", "So Long", and "Does Your Mother Know?" (which have some nice rock riffs in the) and "I Do, I Do, I Do, I Do, I Do" (has a nice Clarence "Frogman" Henry feel to it), ABBA does have some bona fide "rock 'n' roll" songs. Ronstadt definitely has the country-rock thing going. I'll stand by both selections. I've gone on enough about my distaste for both Dionne and Burt & Hal, so I'll forgo that again. Interesting list of awards and honors listed, though I do wonder about the prestige level of some of them (Kleenex American Hero Award?). But again, I'll fully admit that my opposition is based on personal taste and leave it at that. Sade is deserving, though I find them (they were a group first) kind of boring. Great rhythm lines, though. But I'd relent to that selection.

Poor Enig. Don't know what I can do to make you feel better. I'll just say that you CAN have a great class of inductees WITHOUT a prog inductee. Just some food for thought.

Posted by Philip on Wednesday, 12/25/2013 @ 15:55pm

I knew I'd hear from you sooner or later.

Let me remind you AGAIN that B&D weren't the ONLY writer-producers Dionne has worked with.She also has worked with noted R&B producers such as Holland-Dozier-Holland, Isaac Hayes,(with whom she had the smash hit "Deja Vu") and Thom Bell, with whom she had a million-selling # 1 smash with The Spinners entitles "Then Came You".She has also worked with Rock icons The Bee Gees, with whom she had the smash single and album "Heartbraker". You can't get more "Rock" than THAT. Any Questions ?

Posted by Bill G on Wednesday, 12/25/2013 @ 16:30pm

goddamn people it's christmas you gotta have something better to do than arguing on here

Posted by GFW on Wednesday, 12/25/2013 @ 16:58pm

I'd rather see someone politely voicing their differences of opinion than you taking the Lord's name in vain on Christmas Day. Do you have any shame?

Posted by Evangelist on Wednesday, 12/25/2013 @ 17:17pm

aw sweet, Evan my man, where you been?

Posted by GFW on Wednesday, 12/25/2013 @ 18:12pm

"Any questions?"--Bill G.

Yes, did you miss that I said my entire objection was based on me personally not liking her music, and that outside of wondering how prestigious some of those awards really are, I wasn't actually attacking any of her credentials?

Posted by Philip on Wednesday, 12/25/2013 @ 18:33pm

Though, to be fair, I should give her credit for her chameleon-like versatility as a singer. Her B&D stuff sounds like typical B&D stuff (compared with Jackie DeShannon's "What The World Needs Now Is Love"); "Then Came You" sounds very much like a Spinners record, or anything produced by Bell. "Heartbreaker" definitely sounds like something the Bee Gees would have done. To be that flexible and adaptable is a credit to her merit.

Posted by Philip on Wednesday, 12/25/2013 @ 18:39pm

Whatever.

Just don't try to use your own personal opinions to color or influence those of others.Dionne is definitely Hall of Fame worthy....Just as much as Ronstadt, if not more.You know it , I know it, and many others here will agree with me . And trying to downplay her awards and accomplishments won't win you many fans here. Remember, other's opinions here count too...whether you agree with them or not.

Posted by Bill G on Wednesday, 12/25/2013 @ 19:57pm

Philip,

"Sade is deserving, though I find them (they were a group first)"

Sade has only ever been a group, so you are right on correcting Enig there. It just so happened the group was named after the lead singer (and most iconic member). The same line up has been there the whole run. So that rhythm section you pointed out being good is the same on all the records. They are low on drama as an act, and would be the rare group getting in where everyone would be included without question (There are 4). I think if they do get in, and I think they deserve it, it will be similar to Hall & Oates. A slow gradual build of up career recognition, followed by a single nomination and then induction. Not in the next few years, but I wouldn't be surprised if they pop up at the end of the decade as a random pick. They have consistent popularity, and I would guess given their decade long spans between album release they will have their best chance around then. Sade Adu has one of the best contraltos in the business, and I think she might be a vampire because she hasn't aged. Really none of them have actually aged. So maybe they are all vampires.

Posted by Chris F. on Wednesday, 12/25/2013 @ 22:37pm

On the topic of Dionne Warwick.

I do think that honors and awards are generally more a sign that an artist may get inducted rather than a reasoning to induct them. So I tend to glaze over them.

On Warwick's vocal ability. It is a rather unique instrument. She has a tone that might be one of the most inimitable in Popular Music. The timbre of her voice is similar to Lena Horne but less dramatic in attack (she isn't a true belter). She gets beat in range by many, and in power by even more singers. Versatility, not in style but in technique, is a strong quality for her. In her more limited range (she had about 2 and a half octaves in her peak) she had pin point control. Whatever happens in her ear Warwick follows a melody better than just about any singer. I would only say she loses to someone she heavily influenced, and probably the most melodic voice of the last 50 years. Whitney Houston and Mariah Carey. Is she the greatest vocalist of the 20th century? No, but she is in the conversation. Which makes her as relevant as any instrumentalist admired for their craft on a different machine. The voice gets overlooked, which is a shame. It is more prone to wear and tear than anything else, yet still takes a truly skilled musician to control.


I always think it is important to remember that Warwick was Aretha Franklin and Barbra Streisand's competitive peer at her peak. Which is why the whole "is she or is she not" Rock'N'Roll argument happens. You have the ultimate queen of one style of singing against the grand dame of another and evening out the span of those voices lies Warwick.

She sang B&D's stuff, but was deeply entrenched in R&B. Which is why "Walk On By" is something people look to as a ultimate track of Rock'N'Roll. Written by the last true great pair of Traditional American Songbook writers, performed by a voice who could add what the new songbook would sound like.

I always ask if a similar artist in style is in the Hall already. A great voice, that could straddle that very weird line of Rock vs Non Rock, and somehow still define the genre on it's borders. For Warwick there are already two inductees that are so closely associated to a career like that it means she is actually "inductable". The Righteous Brothers & Dusty Springfield. I think if the Hall decides to let her in, the time is right to do it. Warwick isn't getting any younger. Donna Summer proved that the Hall should honor it's living legends before they pass away. If Warwick is left off, I can understand the reasoning. Soft Rock seems like an oxymoron. I disagree with that, but it is at least where the interesting conversation takes place.

Posted by Chris F. on Wednesday, 12/25/2013 @ 23:34pm

You're absolutely RIGHT, Chris !! Dionne's musical background was firmly entrenched in R&B. Before her solo success, she was a renowned background vocalist on recordings of The Drifters, Ben E. King, Chuck Jackson, Dinah Washington, Ronnie "The Hawk" Hawkins, and Solomon Burke among many others. .She also had a strong gospel background.

To simply label Dionne as a bland "Pop" singer is actually an insult to her, her great musical versatility, and her storied origins and great talent. She deserves to be inducted...by any standard you can name . The fact that she's not , again, is a commentary on the flaws and biased attitude of the H of F rather than any supposed lack of merit on her part.

Posted by Bill G on Thursday, 12/26/2013 @ 03:03am

Bill, personal opinions are just part of the game here. And it could just as easily be said that you're trying to color other people's opinions by posting yours about certain artists quite frequently too. It's part of what we do because we believe in/against certain artists being enshrined in the Hall Of Fame. And voters, when they have to pick only five from a list of fifteen, are probably going to be heavily jaded by their personal opinions and preferences too. Dionne's '70s stuff is better than her '60s, imo, because I think her '60s stuff comes off as trite fluff, but I've heard the same thing said about different eras of the Beatles and Elvis. I have a right to post my opinions just as surely as you do. I try more and more to be polite in expressing my opinions, but unless I actually agree with you completely, it just seems to ruffle your feathers. But I'm not going to stop, and I don't think you will either. If "unquestionable music excellence" is the standard, the she falls shy of the mark for me, whereas she flies over the bar for you. As you said, "Whatever."

Posted by Philip on Thursday, 12/26/2013 @ 10:42am

" Which is why "Walk On By" is something people look to as a ultimate track of Rock'N'Roll."

only when done by isaac hayes.

Posted by GFW on Thursday, 12/26/2013 @ 11:05am

Which is why "Walk On By" by Dionne is in The Grammy Hall of Fame .

Posted by Bill G on Thursday, 12/26/2013 @ 11:29am

Philip,

Yes, I was extremely disappointed that neither Yes, nor Deep Purple are being inducted in 2014, but at least I still have Peter Gabriel and Hall & Oates. I really do not have any plans on either visiting the Rock Hall, or attending the Induction ceremony, until either Duran Duran, The Moody Blues, Yes, Deep Purple, King Crimson, Jethro Tull, Procol Harum, Gentle Giant, E.L.O., etc. are inducted. Once that happens, I will try to arrange a vacation, for a change.

By the way, my last "proper vacation" was an air safari in Kenya back in mid October, 1988. I also had a delightful culinary experience twice at the Tamarind Restaurant in Mombasa, during that same week.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Thursday, 12/26/2013 @ 12:55pm

IMO, Ms. Warwick is long overdue for enshirement. To me she was, at a miminum, what Linda Rondstat was trying to be. Again riffing off the recent enshrinement of Ms. Rondstat, at her peak she was a much bigger star in popular music than Ms. Rondstat.

I'm gonna guess she didn't record for Atlantic records.

Posted by Paul in KY on Thursday, 12/26/2013 @ 14:28pm

Long overdue for Ronstadt. Would be delighted to see Dionne in as well. But other gals like Carly, Carole King and Sade are vocal lightweights. Astrodogs criticism of Linda, give us a break - he is like a spurned lover, stalking and libeling her remarkable talent and influence pathetically on this board. We knew she would sail in once she got out of the nominating committee - because Linda was the voice, the heart and the center of the Southern California rock scene. Her rock cred is substantial and certifiable. If Keith and Mick, Chuck Berry, Smokey Robinson, Neil Young, Robert Plant among others cast their votes -who do you think would be first ? Linda, cause her musicianship is second to none and to hear her live was to be transported. She doesn't give a damn about the RRHF or her fans and fame has always seemed to be drag for her. In the end it is her voice. No one could sing like her - no one even tries.

Posted by blaster on Thursday, 12/26/2013 @ 14:49pm

Platinum studio albums:

Linda Ronstadt: 11
Rush: 10
Dionne Warwick: 1

Multi-Platinum studio albums:

Linda Ronstadt: 6
Rush: 2
Dionne Warwick: 0

Posted by Classic Rock on Thursday, 12/26/2013 @ 18:52pm

Blaster-Oh I think you name singers in popular music that were better than Ronstadt (e.g.-Streisand, Durham, Carpenter, Slick, Joplin, McCoo, Carey, Benatar, Dion, Houston, Warwick, Patie Santos, Summer). That's just off the top of my head.

The worst inductee ever, seconded by the most cult-like fans. But after two decades it was magically discovered that she deserved to be inducted. OK.

Posted by astrodog on Thursday, 12/26/2013 @ 18:57pm

blaster,

While I agree on some of what you said on Ronstadt. I do disagree with this statement:

"Carly, Carole King and Sade are vocal lightweights."

Compared to what exactly? An Opera singer? Technical ability is measured differently for those in the Popular Music world. Add to that the intangibles needed to be a great singer, and I don't think you can call any of those 3 women vocal "lightweights". Are they near a top 10? No, but at the very least they are "middleweights". You seem to be knocking three female singers who are mostly equipped with a vocal range further towards the bottom of the female ability. While hoisting up women who are sopranos. Ronstadt in particular has a very high range that still holds it potency up and down the scale. But all singers have their faults (every single one). Ronstadt, and particularly in her heyday, would land on some notes using to much force and create a shrill yell. I've seen Ronstadt acknowledge that while she knew she was a good singer, she didn't really think she was her best until after the 1970s.

More importantly back to the three you singled out.

Sade has a fairly strong, powerful voice. She loses some of the potency when she heads up into her head register. But in the chest she makes a very clear and steady tone. I don't think many singers outside of Anita Baker can really duplicate what Sade does. Even then the smokier accent in Sade's voice is fairly unique.

Carly Simon on the other hand is a "straight" singer. She doesn't have the ear for a melody, and her approach to a note is sometimes unsteady. What she has in spades however is charisma. Of the three, she also has the best upper notes. I sometimes can't figure out if she is just a loud singer or powerful. Something like "Let The River Run" is a good example of a fine vocal from her.

Carole King is a hard one. As a writer first, and a singer second she follows melodies like a pro. Even live, she just doesn't make mistakes that other singers so often do. I am guessing she has perfect pitch, I don't own enough to really say that confidently. Her vocal approach to a higher note is rough, but that seems to be more out of her choice rather than sloppy technique (A more extreme version of that school of thought is Janis Joplin). "Way Over Yonder" from Tapestry is just a fantastic performance, and shows off what King has going (Although to be fair Merry Clayton on the background vocal, just shines).

astrodog,

You just jumped all over the vocal ladder on that list of names.

"(e.g.-Streisand, Durham, Carpenter, Slick, Joplin, McCoo, Carey, Benatar, Dion, Houston, Warwick, Patie Santos, Summer)."

I would say you are a person looking too much at range and power. Those are two pieces of a very complex pie. Although the inclusion of Carpenter. Who gets her marks not in range or power, of which she had little of, but in uniqueness, timbre, and elocution. Streisand, Slick, Joplin, Carey, Dion, Houston and possibly Summer are always going to score high no matter how you slice it. They are better vocalists than Ronstadt, but she isn't so far out of that group that her inclusion would be surprising or indefensible.

Posted by Chris F. on Thursday, 12/26/2013 @ 21:48pm

"Platinum studio albums:

Linda Ronstadt: 11
Rush: 10
Dionne Warwick: 1

Multi-Platinum studio albums:

Linda Ronstadt: 6
Rush: 2
Dionne Warwick: 0"

Posted by Classic Rock

"Having been in a partnership with songwriters Burt Bacharach and Hal David,Dionne Warwick ranks among the 40 biggest hit makers of the entire rock era (1955–2012), based on the Billboard Hot 100 Pop Singles Charts. Dionne Warwick is second only to Aretha Franklin as the most-charted female vocalist of all time with 56 of Dionne's singles making the Billboard Hot 100 between 1962 and 1998"

Posted by Wikipedia

Posted by Bill G on Friday, 12/27/2013 @ 01:12am

"Warwick has sold over 100 million albums worldwide"

- Wikipedia

Posted by Bill G on Friday, 12/27/2013 @ 02:07am

Ronstadt charted 38 Billboard Hot 100 singles"- Wikipedia

Posted by Bill G on Friday, 12/27/2013 @ 02:09am

Dionne Warwick - 12 Top 10 Hits in the Billboard Hot 100

Linda Ronstadt - 10 Top 10 Hits in the Billboard Hot 100

Source-Wikipedia

Posted by Bill G on Friday, 12/27/2013 @ 02:14am

Dionne Warwick - 18 Top 20 Hits - Billboard Hot 100

Linda Ronstadt- 12 Top 20 Hits-Billboard Hot 100

Dionne- 56 Billboard Hot 100 Hits

Linda - 38 Billboard Hot 100 Hits

Linda Inducted.

Dionne -Not Inducted.

Posted by Bill G on Friday, 12/27/2013 @ 02:25am

Classic Rock,

When you are referring to Rush, are you referring to Jennifer Rush, perhaps?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Friday, 12/27/2013 @ 02:58am

Bill G., not to throw more fuel on the fire, but that "second most charted" is three-quarters-true, and a little misleading. Only three-quarters-true, because she's tied for second: Connie Francis also has 56 Pop chart (including pre-"Hot 100") hits from 1957-1998, 35 Top 20 (all but two "Hot 100"), 21 Top 20 (only one pre-"Hot 100"), 16 Top Ten 10 (one pre-"Hot 100"), and 3 #1's (all Hot 100). I feel it's a little misleading and extremely disingenuous to not include Connie's pre-Hot 100 hits because it unfairly punishes her for having a career before Billboard retooled its methodology and renamed its chart. I personally also feel that caveats should be noted when saying "most charted", because the Hot 100 isn't the only game in town. In addition to Billboard's country & western, R&B, AC, etc. charts, there's also the pre-rock data that should be included for proper context, as well as the data from competitor publications like Cashbox (although Whitburn has only recently been compiling that data for easy access). Anyhow, I suppose the main reason I mention it is because Connie's well ahead of Dionne in my personal pecking order of Rock Hall snubs.

Posted by Philip on Friday, 12/27/2013 @ 11:39am

Enig. That would be Rush of "today's Tom Soy" fame. The album stats are current RIAA certifications. Rush currently only has 2 multi-platinum studio albums per the RIAA, and that's a fact. They recently submitted several things to the RIAA so that may change.

Also, thanks for copying and pasting your old posts. I had almost forgotten that the Moody Blues, Yes, and Duran Duran should be in the hall and that Duran Duran is clearly a prog rock band.

Bill's singles stats are also correct. Warwick had a ton of singles. Not sure about 100 million albums.

For the record, I think Ronstadt, Rush, and Warwick are all clear hall of famers. I threw out some album stats and let people interpret them how they like.

Posted by Classic Rock on Friday, 12/27/2013 @ 11:39am

Classic Rock,

Thank you for the clarification, my information says that Rush, as of now, has 14 platinum albums, 24 gold albums and 3 multi- platinum albums. May I ask, where did you find those statistics?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Friday, 12/27/2013 @ 11:43am

Classic Rock,

By the way, here is my link to the aforementioned data:

http://www.riaa.com/goldandplatinum.php?content_selector=top-artist-tallies

Posted by Enigmaticus on Friday, 12/27/2013 @ 11:49am

"Anyhow, I suppose the main reason I mention it is because Connie's well ahead of Dionne in my personal pecking order of Rock Hall snubs. Anyhow, I suppose the main reason I mention it is because Connie's well ahead of Dionne in my personal pecking order of Rock Hall snubs."

What do you want for that...a cookie ?

Consider it given.

Anyone who reads this site regularly will tell you that I have always advocated Connie Francis as Hall of Fame worthy. So if you're trying to use her as a basis for starting another of your famous debates, sorry , it wont work.

But also , be informed that all of your arguments about Dionne not being Hall of Fame worthy on the basis of being "too Pop" could also be applied to Connie. You can't get more Pop than her...And there are those on this site that have protested her induction on that basis.

But, I'm not one of them. Sorry. Try again.

Posted by Bill G on Friday, 12/27/2013 @ 12:19pm

Bill G, there's one very important question regarding your reply that is make-or-break in this disussion:

What kind of cookie is it?

Admittedly, I have missed your advocacy of Connie Francis. She doesn't neatly fall into your classic R&B crusade (not said left-handedly, but sincerely), and so I clearly missed it. My apologies.

As far as Francis/Warwick "pop" comparisons, I don't think it is quite comparable. (Personally I liken Connie Francis more to Brenda Lee.) True, Connie's well-known for her torch numbers like "Where The Boys Are" and "Frankie", but she's also well-known for "Lipstick On Your Collar", "Stupid Cupid", "Vacation", and "I'm Gonna Be Warm This Winter", all of which are stunning examples of rock'n'roll during the late '50s and early '60s. By contrast, when Dionne was in her late '60s B&D period, it didn't have the same grit and depth that was found in Motown (even the Supremes had "Love Child" at that time), James Brown (with or without the Famous Flames), or Aretha Franklin. JMHO, fwiw. Post-B&D had much more depth, but that's arguably after her best-known works (except for the two #1 hits).

Ultimately, I think Paul (I think it was Paul) hit the nail pretty sharply when he pointed out that Dionne wasn't on Atlantic. That HAS to be part of why Dionne hasn't been considered. Not that it should matter (it shouldn't), but it just might be a part of the reason.

Posted by Philip on Friday, 12/27/2013 @ 12:57pm

"Streisand, Slick, Joplin, Carey, Dion, Houston and possibly Summer are always going to score high no matter how you slice it. They are better vocalists than Ronstadt..."


I would definitely add Carpenter (one of the purest voices ever) the singers from ABBA, and certainly Durham.

Btw, when speaking of platinum and multiplatinum, platinum records first came into existence in 1976 and multiplatinum in 1984. Before that every big seller was a gold record.
Also, certification is not automatic. The label needs to apply for it. Some labels were more interested in this than others, so you have multiplatinum records that were never certified as multiplatinum. If the label didn't seek certification retroactively for Tapestry it would have remained a gold record.

Posted by astrodog on Friday, 12/27/2013 @ 13:41pm

Nice to see we're bringing up what really matters when talking about music.

Record sales.

Posted by GFW on Friday, 12/27/2013 @ 14:20pm

Patti LaBelle HAS to come up when you're talking about awesome female singers.Her vocal power is nothing short of incredible.

Also, two of Motown's lesser known ladies, Kim Weston and Brenda Holloway also have tremendous voices....as did Martha Reeves of The Vandellas.

Posted by Bill G on Friday, 12/27/2013 @ 14:43pm

"Nice to see we're bringing up what really matters when talking about music.

Record sales."--GFW

In all fairness, GFW, we ARE having this discussion on a thread about the 2014 Inductees... so... not so inappropriate?

Bill G., Patti LaBelle is indeed an overlooked vocalist. Her lead on "You'll Never Walk Alone" shows some mighty pipes and fantastic range, especially at the very end. Martha Reeves...oh yeah. Martha And The Vandellas is my all-time favorite Motown act...I think what I like most is that even though they had the same house band as the other acts, their songs didn't sound like anybody else's, something I would hypothesize as due to Martha's vocal power being something different, that caused the musicians to play her group differently than the others. It's the same way as I feel about Darlene Love... when Darlene powered through the lead vocals on "He's A Rebel", the session crew had to up their playing even more to keep up, and that's where the power in songs like "He's Sure The Boy I Love", and subsequent songs by other acts that were part of the trademark Wall Of Sound.

I personally don't care for Streisand, C. Dion, or Joplin. Karen Carpenter is a good call. Obviously the aforementioned Connie Francis is an amazing singer as well. Other female singers I have to include would be Francine Barker, the original Peaches of Peaches & Herb. For me, personally, that's the sweetest and most seductive female singing voice I've ever heard. A somewhat close second is Jewel. Don't care for her early songwriting, but I do love her voice, and her Christmas album is an absolute essential for my holiday listening pleasure.

I'd also add Lesley Gore to the list. A lot of her songs have excellent production values (and I was kind of hoping that Jones' induction last year would help open the door for Gore since he discovered her), but if you want to hear beautiful singing wafting above a beautiful low-key arrangement, you have to check out "What Am I Gonna Do With You?"

Posted by Philip on Friday, 12/27/2013 @ 15:27pm

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wsTQtGSIUgk

Patti LaBelle & THE BLUEBELLES (Patti, Sarah Dash, Cindy Birdsong, and Nona Hendrix) singing "YOU'LL NEVER WALK ALONE" LIVE @ The BROOKLYN FOX Theatre (1965)

Posted by Bill G on Friday, 12/27/2013 @ 19:30pm

I am not a "rockist," I am a "progressive rock" enthusiast however, and I have been one for nearly 35 years. As such here is my list for 2015 nominees to the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame:

1. Duran Duran
2. The Moody Blues
3. Yes
4. Deep Purple
5. Chicago
6. Electric Light Orchestra
7. Carly Simon
8. Jim Croce
9. Sade
10. Foreigner
11. Bad Company
12. Green Day
13. Phish
14. The Meters
15. Chic
16. Ice-T, or Queen Latifah
17. Garth Brooks
18. The Doobie Brothers

I had needed to amend that list.
Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 12.21.13 @ 16:18pm

Posted by Enigmaticus on Wednesday, 01/1/2014 @ 10:55am

My nominees for 2015:

Deep Purple
Chic
Devo
The Marvelettes
Lou Rawls
Herman's Hermits
Jim Croce
Gordon Lightfoot
Peter, Paul, and Mary
The Sugarhill Gang
Peter and Gordon
The Monkees
Kool and the Gang
Dire Straits
Dolly Parton

AWARD FOR MUSICAL EXCELLENCE
The Silver Bullet Band
The Andantes

EARLY INFLUENCES
Robert Johnson
The Andrews Sisters
The McGuire Sisters
Bing Crosby
Frank Sinatra
Cab Calloway
Louis Prima
Scott Joplin

Posted by Anonymous on Saturday, 01/4/2014 @ 19:53pm

The Zombies
Cheap Trick
Sepultura

Posted by Anonymous on Saturday, 01/4/2014 @ 19:54pm

JJ Cale

EARLY INFLUENCES
The Glen Miller Orchestra

Posted by Anonymous on Saturday, 01/4/2014 @ 19:58pm

Molly Hatchet
Iron Butterfly
Blue Cheer
Steppenwolf

AWARD FOR MUSICAL EXCELLENCE
Big Brother and the Holding Company

Posted by Anonymous on Saturday, 01/4/2014 @ 20:00pm

The Big Bopper
Chubby Checker
Dio
Iron Maiden
The Spencer Davis Group

Posted by Anonymous on Saturday, 01/4/2014 @ 20:04pm

Jackie Brenston and His Delta Cats

AWARD FOR MUSICAL EXCELLENCE
The Belmonts

Posted by Anonymous on Saturday, 01/4/2014 @ 20:06pm

Dick Dale and His Del Tones
The Moody Blues
Huey Lewis and the News
The Stray Cats

Posted by Anonymous on Saturday, 01/4/2014 @ 20:10pm

The enigmatic intro to Morning Has Broken was performed by Rick Wakeman, keyboardist for YES. But YES is not in the HoF. What a freaking joke.

Posted by dkaplan on Saturday, 01/4/2014 @ 22:36pm

The flute solo on Cat Stevens' "Katmandu" was played by another fellow inductee, Peter Gabriel

Posted by Aaron O'Donnell on Saturday, 01/4/2014 @ 23:47pm

I think SVZ should induct Peter Gabriel because Gabriel's song "Biko" about slain anti-apartheid activist Steve Biko was the catalyst for the "Sun City" project. Also I believe Nelson Mandela's passing prompted the induction of Peter Gabriel since "Biko" was the first song to make people aware of the wrongfulness of apartheid. The RRHOF induction ceremony will take place on April 10, 2014. seventeen days before the twentieth anniversary of the banishment of apartheid from South Africa

Posted by Aaron O'Donnell on Sunday, 01/5/2014 @ 21:26pm

SVZ is going in with the E Street Band; he won't be presenting for anyone.

Posted by Philip on Monday, 01/6/2014 @ 00:44am

PRESENTER PREDICTIONS:

?????? - Nirvana
Rob Zombie for KISS
Rob Thomas or Billy Joel for Hall & Oates
?????? - Cat Stevens
Sting for Peter Gabriel
Don Henley, Stevie Nicks or Aaron Neville for Linda Ronstadt

Bruce Springsteen, John Mellencamp or Bob Seger for The E Street Band

Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr for Brian Epstein
The Rolling Stones for Andrew Loog Oldham

Posted by Roy on Monday, 01/6/2014 @ 08:17am

2014 PRESENTER PREDICTIONS:

?????? - Nirvana
Rob Zombie for KISS
Rob Thomas or Billy Joel for Hall & Oates
?????? - Cat Stevens
Sting for Peter Gabriel
Don Henley, Stevie Nicks, Bette Midler or Aaron Neville for Linda Ronstadt

Bruce Springsteen, John Mellencamp or Bob Seger for The E Street Band

Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr for Brian Epstein
The Rolling Stones for Andrew Loog Oldham

Posted by Roy on Monday, 01/6/2014 @ 08:22am

2014 PRESENTER PREDICTIONS:

Pearl Jam or Green Day for Nirvana
Rob Zombie for KISS
Rob Thomas or Billy Joel for Hall & Oates
James Taylor for Cat Stevens
Sting for Peter Gabriel
Don Henley, Stevie Nicks, Bette Midler or Aaron Neville for Linda Ronstadt

Bruce Springsteen, John Mellencamp or Bob Seger for The E Street Band

Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr for Brian Epstein
The Rolling Stones for Andrew Loog Oldham

Posted by Roy on Monday, 01/6/2014 @ 09:46am

Roy,

This is an interesting list of presenters. May I ask how you came up your list?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Monday, 01/6/2014 @ 17:39pm

2014 PRESENTER PREDICTIONS:

Pearl Jam or Green Day for Nirvana
Rob Zombie for KISS
Rob Thomas or Billy Joel for Hall & Oates
Anthony Kiedis, Neil Young or James Taylor for Cat Stevens
Sting for Peter Gabriel
Don Henley, Stevie Nicks, Bette Midler or Aaron Neville for Linda Ronstadt

Bruce Springsteen, John Mellencamp or Bob Seger for The E Street Band

Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr for Brian Epstein
The Rolling Stones for Andrew Loog Oldham

Posted by Roy on Monday, 01/6/2014 @ 22:27pm

Here are my predictions for the 2014 Presenters:

Radiohead for Nirvana
Dee Snider for KISS
George Michael for Hall & Oates
Sheryl Crow for Cat Stevens
Dave Matthews for Peter Gabriel
Bonnie Raitt for Linda Ronstadt

Bruce Springsteen for The E Street Band

Paul McCartney for Brian Epstein
Mick Jagger and Keith Richards for Andrew Loog Oldham

Posted by Andrew on Monday, 01/6/2014 @ 22:35pm

Roy,

This is an interesting list of presenters. May I ask how you came up your list?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Monday, 01.6.14 @ 17:39pm

Pearl Jam or Green Day for Nirvana for obvious reasons. The Seattle connection for Pearl Jam.

Rob Zombie for Kiss because Rob Zombie inducted Alice Cooper.

Rob Thomas performs with Daryl Hall on his TV show. Billy Joel's music is in the same pop vein as Hall & Oates. Billy Joel inducted Mellencamp.

Neil Young or James Taylor for Cat Stevens because they are singer/songwriters. Neil Young inducted another dark horse named Tom Waits.

Sting for Peter Gabriel because of similar solo material, similar influences and they both currently have their heads shaved.

Don Henley and Stevie Nicks are friends of Linda Ronstadt. Bette Midler inducted Darlene Love and Laura Nyro. Aaron Neville sang two duets with Linda Ronstadt, her biggest hits, original songs.

Bruce Springsteen for the E Street Band for obvious reasons. John Mellencamp because he is in the same musical vein as Springsteen. Bob Seger to make people think of inducting his Silver Bullet Band.

The Beatles and Rolling Stones for Epstein and Oldham for obvious reasons.

Posted by Roy on Monday, 01/6/2014 @ 22:44pm

My presenter predictions....

Eddie Vedder- Nirvana (doubt they'll have the whole band do it, just Eddie Vedder)

Rob Zombie- KISS (good choice Roy, although it could be any number of hard rock artists, although Rob Zombie would make pretty good sense)

Anthony Keidis/Flea- Cat Stevens (Anthony publicly pushed for Cat, so why not?)

Questlove?- Hall & Oates (again he heavily pushed for them, and beings we have no hip hop inductees this year, why not a hip-hop presenter to keep hip-hop in the minds of the Hall of Fame)

Sting- Peter Gabriel (Like Roy pointed out, very similar solo material with their forays into world music, both have played many benefits together, similar on political and social beliefs/causes, and they're friends)

Don Henley and Glenn Frey- Linda Ronstadt (you can darn near say their outcries about Linda being a snub is what put her on the radar, so it's definitely fitting to have them induct her)

Bruce Springsteen- The E-Street Band (duh)

Paul McCartney and/or Ringo Starr- Brian Epstein (if they can get Paul or Ringo to appear, that's the question, if so than it's a definite)

Mick Jagger and/or Keith Richards- Andrew Loog Oldham (It may be just Keith Richards as he appears at the Hall of Fame ceremonies all the time, whereas Mick doesn't really).

Posted by Donnie on Tuesday, 01/7/2014 @ 07:22am

I am sorry, but I have difficulty accepting this particular class of inductees, other than Hall & Oates and Peter Gabriel and perhaps Nirvana, I find this class to be much less interesting than last year's stellar cast.

Last year, the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame had done something correctly; they had inducted icons. Whether it was producer extraordinaire Quincy Jones, sardonic songwriter Randy Newman, Disco queen Donna Summer, album oriented rock (AOR) queens Heart, progressive rock titans Rush, political rap icons Public Enemy, influential producer Lou Adler, or blues great Albert King, each of those artists had earned their place within this great institution.

This year, however is a different story. The sad thing is that this class could have been stellar also, but instead of inducting hard rock icons Deep Purple and progressive rock icons Yes, they chose KISS. How the heck did that happen? I suppose if you are a boy between the ages of 9 and 12, your appreciation of KISS kind of makes sense. As far as I am concerned, their antics have never been more than a late 20th century vaudevillian act with face paint, dry ice and smoke.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Tuesday, 01/7/2014 @ 13:00pm

I suppose that I can understand why Linda Ronstadt was inducted also. After all, Rolling Stone Magazine did love her back in the 1970's. But Cat Stevens induction does not make a great deal of sense, unless of course, he had remained Cat Stevens, or Stephen Georgiou, perhaps. But no, as we are all too well aware, he became Yusuf Islam and he subscribes to a religion that still treats women abhorrently. He may have made many charitable donations and started schools in the United Kingdom, but those are still Islamic schools. A better choice, in my honest opinion would have been for him to have donated money to the British school system, instead.

In my opinion, a much better choice would have been The Meters.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Tuesday, 01/7/2014 @ 13:16pm

I suppose that I can understand why Linda Ronstadt was inducted also. After all, Rolling Stone Magazine did love her back in the 1970's. But Cat Stevens induction does not make a great deal of sense, unless of course, he had remained Cat Stevens, or Steven Georgiou, perhaps. But no, as we are all
too well aware, he became Yusuf Islam and he subscribes to
a religion that for the most part, still treats women abhorrently. He may have won many awards and subsequently made many charitable donations and started schools in the United Kingdom, but those are still Islamic schools. A better choice, in my honest opinion would have been for him to have donated money to the British school system, instead.


In my opinion, a much better choice for performer would have been The Meters. Any band who has influenced Talking Heads gets a thumbs up, in my opinion.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Tuesday, 01.7.14 @ 13:16pm

Posted by Enigmaticus on Tuesday, 01/7/2014 @ 14:00pm

"I am sorry, but I have difficulty accepting this particular class of inductees,"--Enigmaticus

Yeah, the Rock Hall will phone you when they make "acceptance by Enigamaticus" a criterion for induction. In the meanwhile, I suggest you accept the factual nature of their inductions, whether or not you agree with them.

"Last year, the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame had done something correctly; they had inducted icons"

Y'know, you might want to look up the definition of icon. Albert King, while an amazing bluesman and a major influence on Stevie Ray Vaughan, but isn't a household name. Randy Newman? Not an icon. If anything has made him close to icon status, it's his scoring of the Toy Story trilogy which made his name and voice known to younger generations. Lou Adler... eh, quasi known.

This year, they are inducting icons. These are acts that people have freaking heard of. People have heard of KISS, Nirvana, Linda Ronstadt, Daryl Hall And John Oates, Peter Gabriel, and Cat Stevens (and again, Stevens was literally the last inductee I wanted to get in this year.) They've heard of the E Street Band and a good number have even heard of Brian Epstein. Andre Loog Oldham is the only relatively unknown inductee this year.

And let's face it: if there had been 7 inductees with the seventh one being Yes, we wouldn't hear peep one complaining about it, not even at the omission of Deep Purple.

In short, accept it, because it's happening, and the world will keep turning whether you move on from it or not.

Posted by Philip on Tuesday, 01/7/2014 @ 15:25pm

*Andrew Loog Oldham, not Andre. Made him more continental than I should have.

Posted by Philip on Tuesday, 01/7/2014 @ 15:28pm

Well stated Philip.

You can hate KISS all you want (and many here do), but to say that KISS is not an iconic band is just absolutely absurd. If you gathered a group of people that basically only listen to modern top 40 radio, and gave them a list of 50 of the most popular and successful rock bands, and they could only name 5 bands on the list that they recognized the most, I'll bet every single one of them would say KISS. KISS is the very definition of iconic. Everyone knows who they are. Yes they may know them as "that rock band with the makeup" moreso than their songs or albums, but either way that still doesn't take away the fact that they are an iconic band, for better or worse.

KISS is more iconic and well known to the general public than anyone that was inducted last year (yes, even moreso than Rush and Public Enemy), and probably even this year too (except for maybe Nirvana). Up to this year, KISS was probably the most famous band of the last 40 years not yet in the HOF that was eligible. Whether they sucked or not. You can debate their talent, their influence (although anyone saying they weren't influential again, doesn't have a firm grasp of rock history I'd say), their legitimacy, or their worthiness of being inducted all you want, but to say that Randy Newman, Albert King, and Lou Adler are more iconic and well known than KISS, well I don't know what planet you're living on. Sorry.

I would've loved to have seen Deep Purple and Yes go in too (and the Zombies, the Replacements, N.W.A, and Chic for that matter), but KISS was too big a snub to keep out much longer. Although I would not have been opposed to them choosing Deep Purple over KISS, as I'm very chronologically minded when it comes to Hall inductees.

As for Cat Stevens and his religious beliefs? So what? Not to turn this into a religious debate, but it's not like Christianity is that much better at respecting women. Point being, as I talked awhile back with Gram Parsons, what artists do in their personal life, what their religious beliefs, their sexual orientation, their morals, etc. none of that matters, nor should it. It's supposed to be about an artist's influence and impact on the history of rock and roll and popular music. Beyond that commercial success, critical success, longevity, body of work, innovation, etc. are good forms of criteria to judge as well. Whether they're drug users, assholes, or have different beliefs and lifestyles from your typical, average American way of life doesn't make a bit of difference on whether they're worthy.

I agree that Cat Stevens is the weakest inductee of the class and was one of the weakest nominees as well. Why do I believe that? He wasn't innovative, nor was he really that influential. He was one of many singer-songwriters during the 1970's that scored some success on the charts. Compared to other nominees like Deep Purple, Yes, N.W.A., the Replacements, and Link Wray in particular his influence on the history of rock and roll doesn't touch those artists. That's why I don't feel he's really worthy. Him being a Muslim? I could give a crap. I'm an agnostic which means I'll bet about 85% of the Rock and Roll Hall of Famers don't match up with my religious beliefs (or lack of more appropriately), so if I were to go by that, then yep, we'd have to kick everyone out and start over. Same with assholes or drug abusers, or criminals, etc. Hardly no one in the HOF is a saint, not that it matters, nor should it.

Posted by Donnie on Tuesday, 01/7/2014 @ 16:57pm

Leadbelly was a goddamn killer and you say Cat shouldn't be in cos he's a muslim?

Posted by GFW on Tuesday, 01/7/2014 @ 17:28pm

I made an error in my post.

When I was talking about a list of the 50 most successful rock bands for modern day music listeners to pick out from, I was meaning for the 1970's, not in general. Left that part out on accident.

So yeah, if kids nowadays that just listen to modern day top 40 radio saw a list of the 50 most successful rock bands of the 1970's and had to pick the few they could recognize, the majority I'm sure would pick KISS.

Posted by Donnie on Tuesday, 01/7/2014 @ 18:18pm

This may be all the cold medication talking, but I bro-love you so much right now Donnie (and GFW). Weirdly enough, it's been this cold and accompanying cabin fever that has made me crotchety to lash out when irked like I did initially there. I hope I ditch this cold in time for... hayfever season. Oh joy.

But yeah, as I said repeatedly, Cat's conversion to Islam only matters because it influenced him to quit recording altogether for so long, unlike examples of Hall Of Famers whose conversions or simply expressions of faith to/in Christianity led to them recording Christian songs/albums (Little Richard, Elvis Presley, Bob Dylan, Dion, etc.)

Posted by Philip on Tuesday, 01/7/2014 @ 18:30pm

Well done, Donnie and Philip,

Both of you have written logical and impressive responses. I was hoping to see that fire ignite within your minds. Yes, you are correct that KISS is an icon, but Rolling Stone has never respected them and many other critics do not. I was playing the devil's advocate in this case. I wanted to see if you could defend your argument, without name calling or similar juvenile tactics.

Yes, I agree that Cat Stevens was a lesser choice, because he quit the music business, rather than showing us what he was ultimately capable of. Which religion Cat Stevens subscribes to, should not really be a matter, but his body of work is not that memorable and other than the song 'Morning Has Broken,' which I actually like and which he did not write, most of his work is not really "hall of fame" worthy.

The way that I see it, the hall of fame was meant to celebrate the work of great artists over the longevity of their careers. Unfortunately, personality conflicts exist which probably make even coming up with the initial list of nominees quite a daunting task. It's easy for me, because I have a preferred genre (progressive rock), which for decades had been treated like the proverbial red headed stepchild. Now, as far as the Deep Purple issue is concerned, we have at least five different lineups, excluding Whitesnake which was initially Deep Purple by an other name. Heck, if David Coverdale had been able to recruit his buddy Glen Hughes also, it would have been Deep Purple Mark III, sans Ritchie Blackmore. Nonetheless, according to various accounts, David Coverdale was constantly firing his musicians; this went on for several decades. In the process, Jon Lord and Ian Paice had quit to reform Deep Purple Mark II. It is such a shame that the members of Deep Purple and Whitesnake could not get along, because together they probably would have written some really great stuff.

Would I have complained about it, if Yes had been inducted instead of KISS? Absolutely not. Would I have even mentioned Deep Purple in that same conversation? Maybe, but not all of Yes' work is superlative either. Once again, it is a matter of preference.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Tuesday, 01/7/2014 @ 22:31pm

Did someone mention cold medicine? That's quite ironic, because I have been very ill for the past 5 days. Get well soon, Philip.

Otherwise, I had committed a faux pas, I had meant to say Glenn Hughes, not Glen Hughes.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Wednesday, 01/8/2014 @ 07:43am

Here Is whom I infer will be presenting the newly crowned inductees for the RRHOF Class of 2014. I will also seek to explain why these individuals are likely to present the new inductees.


Peter Gabriel: I am noticing a consensus building for Sting to be Gabriel's presenter. I think it is an interesting choice. Might I also suggest Phil Collins as a likelihood. There has ben and continues to be a mutual appreciation and camaraderie of the two long after Peter Gabriel left Genesis in 1975. Outside of those two, I think Youusour N'Dour would be a wise selection, due to Gabriel's importance in bringing wrld and African music to many that had not heard of these influential figures.

Nirvana: When I think about it, it would appear to me that Eddie Vedder would be the likely artist to present Nirvana. Certainly, any figure in the grunge and alternative scenes then and now would be worthy. I can even see all of Pearl Jam doing he presenting honors. Vedder however seems the most appropriate choice.

Kiss: I would not be too surprised to see Rob Zombie induct Kiss. I can, though, think of another artist that could do the honors of presenting: Yoshiki Hayashi. For any person aware of Japanese Rock, or any person familiar with X Japan, they would know that Kiss were in effect the spark that gave X Japan and Yoshiki the path to their own influential works. Yoshiki even produced a tribute album some 20 years back, aptly named Kiss My ***.

Linda Ronstadt: One of these five will present Ronstadt: Glenn Frey, Don Henley, Stevie Nicks, Dolly Parton and/or Emmylou Harris. My best guess is either Henley or Harris. My preference in truth would be Emmylou Harris. There have been some ethereal collaborations with these two singers.

Yusuf Islam (Cat Stevens): I suppose Anthony Kiedis would be a wise choice to present Yusuf Islam. Yet, I can think of another artist: Sarah McLachlan. There has indeed been similarities in how Yusuf and McLachlan have fused their alternative folk rock with different lyrical and musical styles. Not to mention the similarity in the need to have deeper philosophical outlooks.

The E Street Band: It seems likely that Bruce Springsteen will present his longtime backing group into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. I can not think of any other artist for the task.

Brian Epstein: If possible, Sir Paul McCartney and/or Ringo Starr would be the wisest choices. I can also see Sir George Martin presenting Epstein if possible.

Daryl Hall and John Oates: I am not too certain as to why Rob Thomas seems to be the consensus pick for presenting Hall and Oates. There are possibly other people who can present the duo. Perhaps a noted hip-hop/r&b act that had Hall and Oates as a leading influence. Maybe even Robert Fripp, considering Fripp and Hall's collaborations in the latter half of the 1970s.

Andrew Loog Oldham: At least one of the Rolling Stones will be presenting Oldham. Perhaps more than one if they are available.

Well, that is whom I infer are likely presenters for the new Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees. Just so long as Jann Wenner is not allowed anywhere near a microphone spouting his patent smarming ways, we should all be fine. No offense to be taken or given in that last sentence.

By the way, I have just noticed that Kraftwerk will be receiving a lifetime achievement award at this year's Grammy Awards ceremonies. So, let me see this correctly: the notoriously pricky and scattershot National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences is finally getting around to honoring Kraftwerk. We at Future Rock Legends have inducted Kraftwerk into our Revisited/Projected Rock Hall Project. Nearly every electronic band from the 1970s onwards owes their successes to Kraftwerk. Yet, Kraftwerk is not yet in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. This needs to change, post haste. More will be explained as to why it needs to be so in future postings. The advocacy continues.

Now they are big successes, we need to meet them again,

Lax31

Posted by Lax31 on Sunday, 01/12/2014 @ 22:22pm

1. Nirvana - What about maybe Buzz and Dale Crover of the Melvins? I agree Eddie Vedder would be good, but Dale drummed with Nirvana and Buzz joined Krist and Dave for "Melvana" once.

2. KISS - Actually, I think Rob Zombie is a pretty good choice here.

3. Peter Gabriel - While, Sting would be good, Phil Collins would be better, in my opinion. A long musical history together (obviously Genesis, but Phil also, drummed for Peter on one of the early albums) and I can't remember which was which, but I know one was the other's Best Man. I think Peter was Phil's, but I could be wrong.

4. Linda Ronstandt - Any of the Eagles guys would be fine.

5. Cat Stevens - Hmm... what about someone like Bon Iver or Sufjan Stevens?

6. Hall & Oates - What about Dave Matthews?

7. E Street Band - Um... does this mean that Bruce will be inducted a second time or is this "righting the wrongs" like they recently did with The Crickets, The Miracles and so-on? If not Bruce, John Mellencamp or Bono.

8. Brian Epstein - Most likely Paul McCartney, most magically, Paul, Ringo and George Martin.

9. Andrew Loog Oldham - Hopefully all of the Stones.

Posted by JHerndon on Tuesday, 01/14/2014 @ 19:23pm

FYI, the inductees have been announced for over a month now, and I was still able to vote in the poll just now. Any reason it's still up and running?

Posted by Philip on Wednesday, 01/15/2014 @ 16:35pm

Hopefully the inductions of Peter Gabriel and Hall & Oates will bode well for the nomination and induction of Duran Duran in the near future.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 02/8/2014 @ 11:55am

http://songhall.org/news/entry/songwriters_hall_of_fame_announces_2014_inductees

The 2014 Songwriters Hall Of Fame Inductees Announced

Ray Davies
Donovan
Graham Gouldman
Mark James
Jim Weatherly

Posted by Roy on Tuesday, 02/11/2014 @ 18:35pm

No Chic and no Cat Stevens in the Songwriters Hall of Fame this year!

Posted by Roy on Tuesday, 02/11/2014 @ 18:37pm

Cat Stevens can stay out of the Songwriters Hall Of Fame. Really still feel he is a third-rate singer/songwriter.

Posted by Philip on Tuesday, 02/11/2014 @ 21:18pm

FRL, the Hall has put up some information about ceremony in their website, most of which were recently announced by you but the Hall haven't publicly announced them yet. It also includes the air date for HBO to brodcast the ceremony at the bottom of the page.

http://rockhall.com/membership/frequently-asked-questions-induction-tickets/

Posted by John R.C. on Wednesday, 02/19/2014 @ 21:58pm

So what are everyone's opinions about the whole Kiss debate? From one perspective, I do believe that it's important to induct only the members that have made the *most* impact/hold the most significance to the history of the band (i.e. just inducting Simmons/Stanley/Frehley/Criss), however I also see Simmons and Stanley's point of wanting to induct their other members, especially if someone like Robert Trujillo or Josh Klinghoffer are hall of famers, (meanwhile Ronnie James Dio for Black Sabbath is not or Steve Mackay for The Stooges are not.)

I feel like the Rock Hall made it's bed with this one with how they've handled the inductions. In my opinion, the hall of fame should induct the "classic lineups" of bands and then anyone who has appeared on a large amount of albums/has been apart of the band for an incredibly long time (like Dennis Edwards for the Temptations.) Thoughts?

Posted by Steve Z on Tuesday, 02/25/2014 @ 10:58am

Steve, I think it has to be looked at on a case by case basis.

Certainly think Dio should have been inducted with Black Sabbath.

Don't think Klinghoffer should have been inducted.

I wonder how much input the musical act has?

Posted by Paul in KY on Tuesday, 02/25/2014 @ 15:14pm

"Steve, I think it has to be looked at on a case by case basis."

Definitely agree, and from the looks of it with Kiss, it seems like the act doesn't have any at all, then again, with the Metallica/RHCP situation, who really knows?

Posted by Steve Z on Wednesday, 02/26/2014 @ 20:49pm

You've got to love the irony that they priced these tickets way above what the average fan could afford and rented out a huge venue in order to take advantage of the Kiss Army that they'e neglected for yeears...now KISS isn't playing and we're supposed to believe that all those tickets actually sold out? And is anybody really going to pay a scalper (i.e. Ticketmaster's sites where they put up a bunch of tickets at a highr price) even MORE than those already exorbitant costs?

Such a colossal mess. They'll either have to sell all those tickets for less than the initial prices or we're going to have a half empty venue...

Posted by Casper on Saturday, 03/1/2014 @ 18:22pm

I guess Ticketmaster's logic is that there's enough hardcore Kiss and Nirvana fiends to make these tickets worth reselling at an even higher premium...probably should have put more of them on sale in order to effectively gauge demand.

Posted by Casper on Saturday, 03/1/2014 @ 18:28pm

Also, I'm sorry, but nobody should be paying that much money to attend this ceremony. It irks me that some KISS head will be willing to pay $500 to see these guys collect an award and not even perform and then sit through hours of speeches and concerts they could give a shit about. The same goes for anybody else attending because they're a super fan of one act, especially since most of them won't even be performing.

Posted by Casper on Saturday, 03/1/2014 @ 18:29pm

Honestly, if you're into Hall and Oates or whatever, just go see them play a full show. You'll get about eight times the songs that you would when they rush through a truncated three track set at the ceremony and the audience won't be filled with metal heads and younger grunge fans that could care less.

Posted by Casper on Saturday, 03/1/2014 @ 18:31pm

Who I hope for inducts each act:

Nirvana - Jay-Z
KISS - Lady Gaga
Hall & Oates - ?uestlove
Cat Stevens - Justin Vernon
Peter Gabriel - Phil Collins
Linda Ronstadt - Don Henley
The E Street Band - Bruce Springsteen or
Brian Epstein - Ringo Starr
Andrew Loog Oldham - Keith Richards

Posted by Gassman on Thursday, 03/6/2014 @ 17:04pm

Hello there!

It has been a while since I posted on this section of the website. With respect to the induction ceremony scheduled for next month, the RRHOF faces quite a bit of problems before the show starts. There is an idea however which, though not popular in the least, could be a viable option.

Does anyone here think an option the RRHOF can have for the 2014 Induction Ceremony would be to cancel the Induction Ceremony outright? Again, this is a very unpopular option. Yet, here is where we are at with the ceremony thus far.

Kiss are not performing, and perhaps rightly so. Only inducting the original 4 and not the later 6 is quite a stupid move for any long time Kiss fan. Think about it: was Eric Carr or Bruce Kulick, to name two past Kiss members, not worthy of being included?

Nirvana is receiving a mixed bag treatment by the RRHOF. I commend Future Rock legends for informing all that Chad Channing will be included amongst the inductees. I ask, though, what about the other 5 official early members of Nirvana? These include Jason Evernman and their firt recorded drummer, Dale Crover. Also, I do not expect Dave Grohl to show up, for reasons too numerous to elaborate.

Linda Ronstadt, I am certain, would like to be involved. Given the Parkinson's disease Ronstadt has, not to mention her relative retirement years before; she might not be able to attend, much less perform.

Yusuf Islam (Cat Stevens) I think would like to attend. However, Yusuf has experienced an absurd amount of difficulty in coming to the United States, even if for a short time.

The ticket prices are obscenely high. Worse than that, few tickets are selling at StubHub and other vendors.

The idea of limiting each individual to 4 minutes per speech is also a problem. I see nothing wrong in going off on lengthy tangents for perhaps the most important night of these inductees' lives. 4 minutes is too short to give a speech.

I assume the remaining living inductees have no problems with a induction and performance. I should point out an important fact though. Peter Gabriel did not show up when Genesis was inducted. I know Gabriel prefers being inducted on his own. Yet, he could bow out of performing or even showing up given the above circumstances.

With these concerns, the RRHOF might just decide to cancel the ceremony altogether. I would not be surprised if they did just that. What do you fellow posters think of this scenario? Personally, I would be upset and angered. Yet, this seems to be the path the RRHOF has chosen. The longer we don't get any information on the ceremony; the more likely the Induction Ceremony does not occur. Let me know what you posters feel of this matter.

Thinking it right, and doing it wrong; it's easier from an armchair,

Lax31

Posted by Lax31 on Saturday, 03/15/2014 @ 21:18pm

I do think Simmons/Stanley are being dumb by refusing to play with Frehley/Criss, but like all things KISS post-1978, there is some salad in that big plate of shit.

Like Phillip said on Rock Hall Monitors, the Hall hasn't really been rolling out the welcome wagon here, with Dave Marsh still dumping on them and the Hall playing very obvious hardball and essentially throwing a tantrum (limiting time for speeches, only allowing inductees on stage) because they're not getting what they want (which is the reunion of the original four in make-up). Funny that they want it so bad, since that line-up made critics shake their head back in the day.

Stanley does have a point that it's hypocritical for the hall to induct a whole load of Grateful Dead members while they're telling KISS that they're only getting the first four people inducted. Like it or not, the line up of Simmons/Stanley/Bruce Kulick/Eric Carr was the most successful line-up after the original four, and the latter two were in the band for 10+ years. Eric Singer came in at the tail end when people still cared somewhat about KISS as anything other than a nostalgia act, so I'd throw him in too.

Tommy Thayer...eh. I can take him or leave him. I always thought of him as more of an Ace rip-off than a musician. Mark St. John and Vinnie Vincent were in the band for two minutes, so I don't put them in.

So personally, I'd do something like this for members:

Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, Peter Criss, Ace Frehley, Eric Carr, Bruce Kulick and Eric Singer.

Seems like a good middle ground to me, but then again, there is none with Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley.

Posted by Jim on Saturday, 03/15/2014 @ 22:26pm

Y'know Jim, at this point, I even wonder if the Hall actually wanted them to perform. We know that KISS isn't exactly loved by the powers-that-be, and it's taken forever to get them inducted. I can't help but wonder if the Hall hasn't been acting intentionally like this to minimize the impact of KISS during the actual ceremony. I mean, there's no way they could have expected the KISS army and band themselves to react any differently to the news that Chad Channing was going to be included with Nirvana. Unfortunately, it's made me want to see KISS onstage at Barclay's even less now. You just KNOW that Paul and Gene's combined 8 minutes are going to be a rant about Hall hypocrisy and Gene's horrendously myopic definition of Rock And Roll. Let's just hope Ace and Peter can talk quickly enough to get all the thank-yous in.

Posted by Philip on Sunday, 03/16/2014 @ 12:16pm

That may be true Phillip, although that would essentially be shooting themselves in the foot business-wise, mainly because KISS are the only real attraction of this class, and I think the hall was banking on that.

Most worthy? Of course not, but the hall knows there's no real interest in Nirvana among the general public because A) your average person either knows they're a shoe in or thinks they're already inducted and B)You can't even have a full reunion anyways.

Peter Gabriel, Linda Ronstadt, Hall and Oates and Cat Stevens all have their fanbases, but none as fervent as KISS; 2 of those four inductees may not even show up, 3 if Gabriel decides to bounce again.

So really, it's funny that the hall is treating KISS like this, because they really need KISS this year more than KISS needs the hall. And yet, they're actively pissing them off to the point where two band inducted members (Simmons/Stanley) are openly badmouthing the organization they should be promoting and the other two (Criss/Frehley) are essentially telling people not to show up, cause it's a sham. I never thought I'd feel sympathy for Gene Simmons and the group, but I somewhat am with how bad they're being shafted with this one; the complete opposite of Rush last year, and that's sad.

Personally, I'd just induct all of them now. Yeah, Tommy Thayer hasn't really done anything except play on few albums, but neither did Robert Trujillo and Josh Klinghoffer. At least be consistent.

Posted by Jim on Monday, 03/17/2014 @ 13:53pm

Well, not even two days have gone by and we now learn that Chad Channing will not be included as an officially inducted band member with Nirvana. The RRHOF are not winning any friends with these maneuvers. It does make me wonder, though, if the Board of Directors are entirely against Every Performer inductee this year. We do know the other categories are decided upon by their respective subcommittees, and not the official fan and industry ballots. So, why would Dave Marsh, Jon Landau and co. have any problems with the six Performers inductees?

Nirvana, as I mentioned before, are being given the cold shoulder by the RRHOF. It feels they are being inducted into the Rock Hall only because they have to be inducted. In a way, I find it similar to when an athlete such as Michael Jordan got inducted into their respective sport's Hall of Fame and considered it a given at best; a dreaded inevitability at worst. Mind you, I do not believe the surviving band members of Nirvana feel this way; nor do I think Courtney Love and Frances Bean Cobain think this way regarding Kurt Cobain. My opinion is the RRHOF consider a Nirvana induction a chore.

Peter Gabriel might not seem a chore inducement for the RRHOF. However, after 11 years of eligibility, not to mention a needed follow up for Gabriel to be inducted after Genesis went in; it appears matters have changed. Of the 6 inductees as performers this year, Peter Gabriel is the one that received the Polar Music Prize: this is the equivalent to being awarded a Nobel Prize for music. Even after Genesis got inducted, the RRHOF had to realize a full Peter Gabriel induction would have to come sooner than later.

Kiss, I agree, should have gotten inducted years ago. I tend to believe the RRHOF did not Kiss inducted; yet Kiss did win the fan ballot vote, which seems to now guarantee an induction no matter what. What the Board of Directors has done is to attempt to minimize Kiss' induction, which is quite absurd given their fan base and legacy. Plus, Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley have always been forthright about their lives and ideals. Did the RRHOF think it would change them for this one time?

Linda Ronstadt also is seemingly getting the cold shoulder. I am certain Ronstadt feels elated and rather humbled at being given a well deserved award. The RRHOF might be thinking this Linda Ronstadt to be yet another chore, considering her Parkinson's Disease diagnosis.

Yusuf Islam (Cat Stevens) has a wide, varied and lasting fan base that has lasted longer than his 1970s peak. Yet, there are those that consider Yusuf Islam to be an anomaly in popular music, and cannot for the life of them reconcile their concerns with his music and humanitarian deeds. Fear of such baseless ideals are seemingly still there.

Daryl Hall and John Oates also seem to be a bit of a chore for the RRHOF. Knowing that Hall and Oates' vocal fan base was able to put these two on the fans' ballot, effectively rallying from behind during the homestretch, it would appear the RRHOF had little alternative but to have this duo be given this well deserved honor. Much like Simmons and Stanley, Hall and Oates have been quite open about their ideals and theories toward the Hall of Fame. Albeit it is mainly Daryl Hall doing the criticism and is more of being amused by the last few months. Apparently, the Board of Directors are not pleased with these rather nonchalant responses.

What I am getting at is: the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame are not pleased with All 6 of the Performers Inductees. I am guessing they would have rather it been different, instead of being essentially determined by the followers and people influenced by these artists. I also guess the RRHOF are still miffed at this website for effectively influencing future elections and induction ceremonies to come. Well, times have to change. Yet it appears the Board of Directors want little to do with the recent inductees, including this year's inductees.

Again, all of this points to a scenario the Hall of Fame might be considering in cancelling the induction ceremony altogether. They should not even be thinking about this. Maybe, by exposing their mercurial behavior, the Induction Ceremony can take place the way it is intended to. I will explain the best possible ceremony in a later post.

Still not certain who will show up,

Lax31

Posted by Lax31 on Monday, 03/17/2014 @ 20:22pm

I just don't see a lot of enthusiasm in general. Year after year rock is sinking into irrelevance. Popular culture has moved on. And the R&RHF hasn't done itself any favors with a view of rock embedded in the mid 90s. The staleness of rock music is reflected in the R&RHF's uncreative choices.
I agree that Nirvana is a chore. The Kiss induction was so played out that it is years too late to generate enthusiasm (although seeing a fight among the members would be interesting). The rest generate tepid interest. And Ronstadt is jumping the shark in a huge way. Now future inductees can say "Wow, we are in club that includes...Linda Ronstadt." Sigh.

Posted by astrodog on Tuesday, 03/18/2014 @ 01:20am

I just don't see a lot of enthusiasm in general. Year after year rock is sinking into irrelevance. Popular culture has moved on. And the R&RHF hasn't done itself any favors with a view of rock embedded in the mid 90s. The staleness of rock music is reflected in the R&RHF's uncreative choices.
I agree that Nirvana is a chore. The Kiss induction was so played out that it is years too late to generate enthusiasm (although seeing a fight among the members would be interesting). The rest generate tepid interest. And Ronstadt is jumping the shark in a huge way. Now future inductees can say "Wow, we are in club that includes...Linda Ronstadt." Sigh.

Posted by astrodog on Tuesday, 03/18/2014 @ 01:21am

I'm going to the induction ceremony! The tickets were too cheap to pass up and I know that they will still have an awesome lineup of performers. If my reception is good enough in the building, I will be live tweeting during the event. Very excited!

Posted by Gassman on Friday, 03/28/2014 @ 12:47pm

Hopeful presenters:*

Nirvana: Neil Young
Cat Stevens: Jeremiah Wright
Daryl Hall And John Oates: Bobby Womack
KISS: Dave Marsh
Linda Ronstadt: Michael J. Fox
Peter Gabriel: John Cusack

The E Street Band: Mick Jagger & Keith Richards
Andrew Loog Oldham: Paul McCartney & Ringo Starr
Brian Epstein: Bruce Springsteen & Jon Landau

*having my moment as a joker.

Posted by Philip on Friday, 03/28/2014 @ 14:47pm

http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/bruce-springsteen-michael-stipe-will-appear-at-rock-hall-induction-20140401

Rolling Stone has released partial presenters for the 2014 ceremony. Here's who will present and perform:

Nirvana - Michael Stipe (presenter)
KISS - Tom Morello (presenter)
E Street Band - Bruce Springsteen (presenter and performing with them
Peter Gabriel - Chris Martin (presenter)
Linda Ronstadt - Glenn Frey (presenter), Stevie Nicks, Carrie Underwood, Emmylou Harris, Sheryl Crow and Bonnie Raitt (performers)
Hall & Oates - Questlove (presenter)
Brian Epstein & Andrew Loog Oldham - Peter Asher (presenter)

No word on Cat Stevens yet.

Posted by John R.C. on Tuesday, 04/1/2014 @ 01:05am

https://rockhall.com/blog/post/2014-rock-hall-induction-ceremony-special-guests/

Presenters and Performers for the 2014 Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame Announced:

Peter Asher of Peter and Gordon to induct Brian Epstein and Andrew Loog Oldham
Bruce Springsteen to induct The E Street Band
Chris Martin of Coldplay to induct Peter Gabriel
Glenn Frey of The Eagles to induct Linda Ronstadt / Stevie Nicks, Carrie Underwood, Emmylou Harris, Sheryl Crow and Bonnie Raitt to perform
Michael Stipe of R.E.M to induct Nirvana
Tom Morello of Rage Against The Machine to induct KISS
Questlove of The Roots to induct Hall and Oates
?????????? - Cat Stevens

Posted by Roy on Tuesday, 04/1/2014 @ 07:47am

April has arrived!

Posted by Roy on Tuesday, 04/1/2014 @ 07:49am

I can't help but appreciate the near irony of Tom Morello inducting KISS: the guitarist of a band whose very name is indicative of their anti-corporate, anti-paradigm attitude and approach inducting a band who'd sell out what few ideals they have for a Klondike bar.

Posted by Philip on Tuesday, 04/1/2014 @ 20:36pm

I'm right there laughing with you Philip. I was really hoping for Lady Gaga, who would've been a perfect fit in most every way.

Posted by DarinRG on Tuesday, 04/1/2014 @ 20:39pm

This is from a piece on Cracked.com, an article called "The Five Worst Songs In The History Of Rock Music." This paragraph is talking about Nickelback and the song, "Worthy To Say." But as I read it, I thought that this could also apply quite aptly to KISS and "Rock And Roll All Nite." And once again, I'll remind you all... all this and I still supported and still think KISS is worthy of induction. Here's what was written.

"Nickelback aren't a band, you see -- they're quite literally the result of a small-town con artist/drug dealer finding out he could make more money selling CDs than he could running a telemarketing center (but don't take my word for it!). They're a transparently cynical attempt to use an art form for pure self-interest, and it actually completely misses the point to criticize their music, because it's not trying to be good -- it's trying to capitalize on a specific market in the same way that any similar product does. It literally doesn't count as music. But then you listen to it, and oh for f'ing f's sake it's catchy and it's dynamic and it gets stuck in your head forever just like actual music does. This could easily be a list of the Top 5 Earworms, and that's the problem -- something comes from a place of mindless, talentless self-interest, yet ends up having the same desired effect as something slaved over by real artists. It's the same way Mr. F'ing Puddle of Mudd's stupid soulless stupid voice sounds exactly like Kurt Cobain's, and it's a hijack and it's absolutely the most mockingly unfair thing ever (OK, second-most). It's the real reason I hate these five songs, and it's the reason that preventing shitty music will always be impossible -- because even idiots can harness its power."

Posted by Philip on Wednesday, 04/2/2014 @ 01:20am

They still have not posted the complete bios of this year's inductees on the Rock Hall website, neither which band members are being inducted. Yes I know we know.

Posted by Roy on Wednesday, 04/9/2014 @ 22:10pm

The 2014 Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame Order of Inductions:

01. Brian Epstein
02. Andrew Loog Oldham
03. Peter Gabriel
04. KISS
05. Cat Stevens
06. Linda Ronstadt
07. The E Street Band
08. Hall and Oates
09. Nirvana

Posted by Roy on Thursday, 04/10/2014 @ 22:43pm

The 2014 Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame Order of Inductions:

01. Brian Epstein
02. Andrew Loog Oldham
03. Peter Gabriel
04. KISS
05. Cat Stevens
06. Linda Ronstadt
07. The E Street Band
08. Hall and Oates
09. Nirvana

Posted by Roy on Thursday, 04/10/2014 @ 22:43pm

http://www.gettyimages.ca/Search/Search.aspx?contractUrl=2&language=en-GB&family=editorial&assetType=image&p=2014+Rock+and+Roll+Hall+of+Fame

The 2014 Rock And Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony Photos on Getty Images

Posted by Roy on Thursday, 04/10/2014 @ 23:02pm

http://www.wireimage.com/search/#events?q=2014%20Rock%20and%20Roll%20Hall%20of%20Fame&s=1

The 2014 Rock And Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony Photos on WireImage

Posted by Roy on Thursday, 04/10/2014 @ 23:03pm

Hmmm, St. Vincent and Nirvana. That's a level of awesome that I never anticipated.

Posted by DarinRG on Friday, 04/11/2014 @ 00:50am

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upnncbQtxjg

FOX NEWS ON THE 2014 ROCK HALL

Posted by Roy on Friday, 04/11/2014 @ 07:12am

The Rock Hall has not posted the full bios of this year's inductees yet on their website. I'll have to email them.

Posted by Roy on Friday, 04/11/2014 @ 22:31pm

http://www.rbhalloffame.com

2014 R&B MUSIC HALL OF FAME INDUCTION CEREMONY & CONCERT

Plus two other awards and the 70′s Soul R&B Concert!!! More entertainment will be added.

The Whispers, Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, Marvin Gaye, The Delfonics, Chubby Checker, The Sweet Inspiration, The Dells, The Funk Brothers, Norm N. Nite, The Spinners, The Imperial Wonders, The Impressions , Russell Tompkins of the Stylistics, Joe Jackson father of Micheal Jackson will receive The Living Legend Award.

Posted by Roy on Friday, 04/18/2014 @ 10:23am

https://rockhall.com/inductees/

The Rock Hall is getting lazy and careless with their inductee bios. Bios and timelines for this year's inductees are not complete yet.

Posted by Roy on Saturday, 04/19/2014 @ 07:20am

Maybe they are waiting until after the ceremony is televised on HBO to complete the bios.

Posted by Roy on Monday, 04/21/2014 @ 22:54pm

Is it too nearly to speculate on the nominees for the 2015 class, yet?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Monday, 04/28/2014 @ 09:35am

I am sorry, I had meant to say, is it too early to start the discussion and speculate on whom the nominees will be for next year?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Monday, 04/28/2014 @ 09:51am

Well, Enigmaticus, the new entry on my blog, rockhallmonitors, actually starts thinking about that very thing.

Posted by Philip on Monday, 04/28/2014 @ 23:38pm

These are the artists whom I would like to see nominated for the rrhof induction in 2015

1. Duran Duran
2. The Moody Blues
3. Yes
4. Stevie Ray Vaughan
5. Sade
6. Doobie Brothers
7. Carly Simon
8. Chicago
9. Foreigner
10. Electric Light Orchestra
11. Green Day
12. Phish
13. The Meters
14. Deep Purple
15. Ice-T

And as producers:

Todd Rundgren
Brian Eno
Nile Rodgers

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 05/4/2014 @ 19:33pm

And as songwriter inductee, Bernie Taupin.

Long overdue for his lyrical contributions to Elton John and other artists.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 05/4/2014 @ 19:39pm

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X9DT47h6HB0

The Buzz: Rock & Roll Hall of Fame (HBO)

Posted by Roy on Sunday, 05/4/2014 @ 23:28pm

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X9DT47h6HB0

The Buzz: Rock & Roll Hall of Fame (HBO)

Posted by Roy on Monday, 05/5/2014 @ 05:59am

Here's my list of 2015 Rock N Roll Hall of Fame nominees

1. Duran Duran 2. Steve Miller 3.Kool & The Gang 4.Deep Purple 5. The Cure 6.Joan Jett 7.Chicago 8. Roxy Music 9.Def Leppard 10. Moody Blues 11.NWA 12.Bryan Adams 13. Green Day 14. Pat Benatar 15.Foreigner 16.YES 17.Bon Jovi 18.Garth Brooks. KING

Posted by KING on Saturday, 05/17/2014 @ 20:20pm

I had forgotten that there might be a push to induct Lou Reed as a solo artist, as well. What about Steve Winwood? I had almost forgotten about inducting him as a solo artist, also. With the exceptions of N.W.A. and Joan Jett, I like your list of nominees, KING.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 05/18/2014 @ 14:37pm

Thanks Enigmaticus!!! Like to see Duran Duran & Def Leppard get inducted in 2015. Both are deserving. I'm surprised Janet Jackson & Whitney Houston haven't had greater push to induction.

So many deserving artists...KISS & Hall & Oates broke some of the logjam but so many artists still waiting. Chicago should finally breakthrough this year & one of those singer-songwriter types. You brought up a good possible inductee in Lou Reed. There will probably be a surprise inductee as well.

I got 6 nominees right last year in my Mock RRHOF list last year. My Peter Gabriel pick was a great guess for KING. Should be another excellent group of candidates. Should help Def Leppard they are touring with KISS 2014. KING

Posted by KING on Sunday, 05/18/2014 @ 17:04pm

KING wrote:
"I'm surprised Janet Jackson & Whitney Houston haven't had greater push to induction."

I agree, especially about Janet. It's only a matter of time for her, but it's odd that she hasn't even been nominated yet.

I'm a big Whitney Houston fan but the fact that she didn't write the bulk of her material may explain her snub. Also, if her death didn't give the Committee a reason to nominate her, then she may be waiting a long, long time to get recognized.

Posted by Marissa on Monday, 05/19/2014 @ 12:07pm

With Black Sabbath,KISS,Rush,Heart & Hall & Oates being inducted in recent years, it's doing a good job the RRHOF Committee of inducting worthy acts. Most of the giants & Legends have been inducted AC/DC, The Beatles, Bob Dylan,Bruce,Led zZeppelin,Prince,Madonna,U2 etc.

I guess the biggest slights now would be Deep Purple,Chicago,
& maybe Steve Miller of the late 60's &70's

Groups like Duran Duran,Def Leppard,Radiohead,Pearl Jam,The Cure ,Alice In Chains, etc. will be inducted in the 2015-2020. Alice In Chains intrigues me .Nirvana ... Pearl Jam should be 1st ballots Hall of Famers . Curious Curious if AIC makes it 1st ballot. KING

Posted by KING on Tuesday, 05/20/2014 @ 18:00pm

With Black Sabbath,KISS,Rush,Heart & Hall & Oates being inducted in recent years, it's doing a good job the RRHOF Committee of inducting worthy acts. Most of the giants & Legends have been inducted AC/DC, The Beatles, Bob Dylan,Bruce,Led zZeppelin,Prince,Madonna,U2 etc.

I guess the biggest slights now would be Deep Purple,Chicago,
& maybe Steve Miller of the late 60's &70's

Groups like Duran Duran,Def Leppard,Radiohead,Pearl Jam,The Cure ,Alice In Chains, etc. will be inducted in the 2015-2020. Alice In Chains intrigues me .Nirvana ... Pearl Jam should be 1st ballots Hall of Famers . Curious Curious if AIC makes it 1st ballot. KING

Posted by KING on Tuesday, 05/20/2014 @ 18:12pm

KING,

I think that if Duran Duran and The Moody Blues appear on the next RRHOF nominees ballot, they will be immediately inducted just like Rush was. I was surprised that Yes did not go in immediately, as well. Of course, I would immediately vote for Sade and Carly Simon, if their names were to appear on the ballot; both of those ladies deserve immediate induction, as well.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Thursday, 05/22/2014 @ 08:41am

Regarding Tom Lane's Blog posting. Always enjoy reading your blog but I was at the RRHOF show and although the TV show was good and editing was probably necessary the one thing that was not captured (and probably could never be) was the amazing sonic experience of the live show. Cat Stevens' voice and singing at the live show must have turned some Nirvana fans into instant Stevens fans. He sounded that good live! During the Ronstadt tribute and especially the Nirvana performance I was absolutely blown away by the Barclay center acoustics. Both me and my friend who attended the live show and watched it on HBO last night agree that the sonic hangover we experienced after the April 10th show was not to be had today. The live show was fantastic. The only things missing were a KISS performance and Ronstadt's voice.

Posted by Richie on Sunday, 06/1/2014 @ 09:38am

You mean, I had missed seeing the godfather of "progressive rock" for this? Unfortunately, I had been unable to convince anyone else (colleagues, or associates) to accompany me to the Justin Hayward concert last night, so instead of purchasing tickets and attending, I had watched the 2014 Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame Induction ceremony last night.

So, how did it compare to last year's iconic ceremony, in my opinion? Well, I was not that crazy about Chris Martin's induction speech, but Peter Gabriel's performance of 'In Your Eyes' was certainly quite spectacular.

Also, highly noteworthy was Sheryl Crowe's and the other ladies, cover version of 'You're No Good.' It was also great to see Stevie Nick's take the stage; Stevie was utterly amazing, of course.

Yusuf Islam, the artist formerly known as Cat Stevens can still sing quite well. I was hoping that he would have played 'Morning Has Broken,' instead, however the songs which he did sing were great.

Daryl Hall & John Oates sounded great with the performance of their repertoire.

KISS did not perform, which was not a surprise. For a few moments, it had seemed as though the four original members had actually buried their animosity.

I am not a big fan of either the E Street Band, nor Nirvana. Although, I did watch their performances. Perhaps, I am too old to appreciate Nirvana's music, after all I am nearly in my mid 50's. The one song that I actually did like by Nirvana, was not performed, however.

In my opinion, the highlights of this year's ceremony, paled in comparison with last year's. When you induct iconic artists like Rush, Heart, Randy Newman and the late great Donna Summer, you expect and you get spectacular performances.

Carole King's performance last year was magnificent, as was Jennifer Hudson's tribute to the late Donna Summer. I especially liked the raucous rendering of Randy Newman's 'I Love L.A.' to open last year's ceremony. Heart was spectacular and after nearly 40 years together, Ann and Nancy Wilson's performances on 'Crazy On You' and 'Barracuda,' with their support cast, were truly mesmerizing.

Gary Clark Jr.'s performance of 'Born Under A Bad Sign' by the late Albert King was riveting. I have no doubt that we will see this great artist again several more times.

I really do not think that many artists can hold a candle to Rush; they are in the same league with artists such as: The Who, The Moody Blues, Cream, Duran Duran, Yes, Pink Floyd, Genesis, King Crimson, Talking Heads, The Beach Boys, Fleetwood Mac and The Beatles. Their audience will still be playing Rush recordings, covers of their recordings, and other versions of their songs, for several more centuries, if not several millennia. I would have preferred them to have performed 'Xanadu,' 'Available Light,' 'Dreamline,' 'Ghost Of A Chance' or 'Mystic Rhythms' instead of choosing 'The Spirit Of Radio' and 'Tom Sawyer,' but it's great to know that the Rock Hall's gallery had chosen 'Xanadu,' aka the greatest symphonic progressive rock song of all time, in my honest opinion.





I

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 06/1/2014 @ 12:52pm

RnRHoF possibilities/picks for 2015:
Moody Blues
Yes
Jethro Tull
ELO
Todd Rundgren
Steve Miller Band
Doobie Brothers
Deep Purple
Zombies
Peter Frampton

Posted by danny on Sunday, 06/1/2014 @ 17:23pm

You can't count Chicago as a snub because they are being blackballed by Jann Wenner. They are way past the point of induction by now, no chance they will ever get inducted as long as Wenner runs the show at the Hall.

As far as next year goes my money is on Yes, the Moody Blues, Deep Purple, Chic and either Joan Jett or the Cars.

Posted by Pete on Monday, 06/2/2014 @ 02:25am

Prediction for 2015 ballot:
Chic
Joan Jett
Greenday
NWA
Deep Purple
Kraftwerk
New York Dolls
Yes
Whitney Houston
SRV
Sonic Youth
ELO
Nine Inch Nails
Harry Nilsson
Spinners

Posted by Classic Rock on Wednesday, 06/4/2014 @ 21:13pm

https://www.rockhall.com/inductees/

And they still haven't finished the bios!! And no timelines. Or is this how it's going to be from now on? Lazy assholes!!
https://www.rockhall.com/inductees/

Posted by Roy on Wednesday, 06/4/2014 @ 22:52pm

These are the artists whom I would like to see nominated for the rrhof induction in 2015

1. Duran Duran
2. The Moody Blues
3. Yes
4. Stevie Ray Vaughan
5. Sade
6. Doobie Brothers
7. Carly Simon
8. Chicago
9. Foreigner
10. Electric Light Orchestra
11. Green Day
12. Phish
13. The Meters
14. Deep Purple
15. Ice-T

And as producers:

Todd Rundgren
Brian Eno
Nile Rodgers
Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 05.4.14 @ 19:33pm

Posted by Enigmaticus on Friday, 06/6/2014 @ 09:47am

I think that these artists would create a great Rock & Roll Hall
Of Fame Induction ceremony:

Of course, these were my picks for 2014:

A possibly better order for the 2014 inductees:

1. Sade

'Smooth Operator'
'No Ordinary Love'

2. Doobie Brothers

' Long Train Running
'China Grove'
'You Belong To Me'

3. Carly Simon

'Nobody Does It Better'
'You're So Vain'

4. Foreigner

'I Want To Know What Love Is'
' Cold As Ice'

5. Nirvana

'Heart Shaped Box'
'No Apologies'

6. Electric Light Orchestra

'Livin' Thing'
'Mr. Blue Sky'

7. The Moody Blues

'I'm Just A Singer In A Rock And Roll Band'
'Legend Of A Mind'
'Nights In White Satin'

8. Duran Duran

'The Chauffeur'
'Ordinary World'
'Reach Up For The Sunrise,' or 'What Happen's Tomorrow.'



Now, if we could replace Nirvana with Green Day and add Yes and Deep Purple to the mix, we might actually have the best ceremony possible.

I am fairly certain that 'Roundabout' and 'Owner Of A Lonely Heart' would be probably be Yes' choices. I am thinking that 'Burn,' 'Smoke On The Water' and 'Hush' would be the best choices for Deep Purple. Where would Chicago be in this conversation?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Thursday, 06/12/2014 @ 09:45am

Let's rethink that order, by incorporating Yes and Deep Purple into the mix:

1. Sade

'Smooth Operator'
'No Ordinary Love'

2. Doobie Brothers

'Long Train Running'
'China Grove'
'Black Water'
'You Belong To Me' (with Carly Simon)

3. Carly Simon

'Nobody Does It Beter'
'Let The River Run'
'You're So Vain'

4. Foreigner

'I Want To Know What Love Is'
'Cold As Ice'

5. Deep Purple

'Smoke On The Water'
'Burn'
'Hush'

6. The Moody Blues

'I'm Just A Singer In A Rock and Roll Band'
'Legend Of A Mind'
'Nights In White Satin'

7. Yes

'Roundabout'
'Owner Of A Lonely Heart'

8. Green Day

?
?

9. Duran Duran

'Ordinary World'
'Rio'
'Girl Panic'
'What Happens Tomorrow'

Where did E.L.O. Go?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Thursday, 06/12/2014 @ 10:00am

If Chicago were to be inducted, they would probably want to take advantage of a reunion with Peter Cetera. His replacement in the band, Jason Scheff, is a true gentleman, and would be happy to just play bass in the background and let Cetera sing the tenor parts.

So...probably they'd start with "Feelin' Stronger Every Day", have Cetera shake a tambourine while Robert Lamm sings "Saturday In the Park", and end on a high note with "25 or 6 To 4".

As probably the biggest Chicago guy on the forum (Except, of course, for Roy), this is, at any rate, how I'd imagined the induction in my head.

Posted by PopeCharming on Thursday, 06/12/2014 @ 10:35am

I could not agree more, Popecharming. If Chicago does get on the ballot, their reunion with Peter Cetera would be an absolute must.


Now, as far as those glaring nomination omissions that need to be corrected comes to mind, Chicago is definitely very high on that list, along with: Duran Duran, The Moody Blues, Carly Simon, Yes, Jethro Tull, King Crimson, Stevie Ray Vaughan, The Cars, Roxy Music, Sade, The Doobie Brothers, Stevie Nicks (as a solo artist), Lionel Richie, E.L.O., Foreigner, Bad Company, Deep Purple, Styx, Kansas, Pat Benatar, etc.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Thursday, 06/19/2014 @ 09:07am

I could not agree more, Popecharming. If Chicago does get on the ballot, their reunion with Peter Cetera would be an absolute must.


Now, as far as those glaring induction omissions that need to be corrected comes to mind, Chicago is definitely very high on that list, along with: Duran Duran, The Moody Blues, Carly Simon, Yes, Jethro Tull, King Crimson, Stevie Ray Vaughan, The Cars, Roxy Music, Sade, The Doobie Brothers, Stevie Nicks (as a solo artist), Lionel Richie, The Commodores, E.L.O., Foreigner, Bad Company, Deep Purple, Styx, Kansas, Pat Benatar, etc.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Thursday, 06/19/2014 @ 09:29am

What I would like to see the 2015 Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame Induction ceremony look like:

Let's rethink that order, by incorporating Yes and Deep Purple into the mix:

1. Sade

'Smooth Operator'
'No Ordinary Love'

2. Doobie Brothers

'Long Train Running'
'China Grove'
'Black Water'
'You Belong To Me' (with Carly Simon)

3. Carly Simon

'Nobody Does It Beter'
'Let The River Run'
'You're So Vain'

4. Foreigner

'I Want To Know What Love Is'
'Cold As Ice'

5. Deep Purple

'Smoke On The Water'
'Burn'
'Hush'

6. The Moody Blues

'I'm Just A Singer In A Rock and Roll Band'
'Legend Of A Mind'
'Nights In White Satin'

7. Yes

'Roundabout'
'Owner Of A Lonely Heart'

8. Green Day

?
?

9. Duran Duran

'Ordinary World'
'Rio'
'Girl Panic'
'What Happens Tomorrow'

Where did E.L.O. Go, or should they wait until 2016?
What about Chicago?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Thursday, 06.12.14 @ 10:00am

Posted by Enigmaticus on Thursday, 06/19/2014 @ 09:33am

Or, is that too much star power for one event? How about Elton John inducting his co-writer Bernie Taupin in the songwriter category? Inducting Todd Rundgren and Nile Rodgers as producers?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Thursday, 06/19/2014 @ 09:39am

Oh what the heck, let's add Chicago and E.L.O. and Bernie Taupin to the mix. Then, let's revise the songs themselves:

1. Bernie Taupin

'Daniel'
'Someone Saved My Life Tonight'
'Your Song'

2. Sade

'Smooth Operator'
'No Ordinary Love'

3. Electric Light Orchestra

'Sweet Talkin' Woman'
'Turn To Stone'
'Mr. Blue Sky'

4. Doobie Brothers

'Long Train Running'
'China Grove'
'Black Water'
'You Belong To Me (with Carly Simon)'

5. Carly Simon

'Nobody Does It Better'
'Let The River Run'
'You're So Vain'

6. Foreigner

'I Want To Know What Love Is'
'Cold As Ice'

7. Deep Purple

'Smoke On The Water'
'Burn'
'Hush'

8. The Moody Blues

'I'm Just A Singer In A Rock & Roll Band'
'Legend Of A Mind'
'Nights In White Satin'

9. Green Day

?
?

10. Yes

'Roundabout'
'Owner Of A Lonely Heart'


11. Chicago

'25 or 6 to 4'
'Saturday In The Park'
'Wishing You Were Here'

12. Duran Duran

'Ordinary World'
'Rio'
'Girl Panic'
'What Happens Tomorrow'

Posted by Enigmaticus on Thursday, 06/19/2014 @ 10:20am

So I have heard that the 2014 Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame induction ceremony wasn't that great. I wonder how well a 6 hr. Ceremony would go over?

Can you imagine a ceremony honoring these artists in 2015?


Oh what the heck, let's add Chicago and E.L.O. and Bernie Taupin to the mix. Then, let's revise the songs themselves:

1. Bernie Taupin

'Daniel'
'Someone Saved My Life Tonight'
'Your Song'

2. Sade

'Smooth Operator'
'No Ordinary Love'

3. Electric Light Orchestra

'Sweet Talkin' Woman'
'Turn To Stone'
'Mr. Blue Sky'

4. Doobie Brothers

'Long Train Running'
'China Grove'
'Black Water'
'You Belong To Me (with Carly Simon)'

5. Carly Simon

'Nobody Does It Better'
'Let The River Run'
'You're So Vain'

6. Foreigner

'I Want To Know What Love Is'
'Cold As Ice'

7. Deep Purple

'Smoke On The Water'
'Burn'
'Hush'

8. The Moody Blues

'I'm Just A Singer In A Rock & Roll Band'
'Legend Of A Mind'
'Nights In White Satin'

9. Green Day

?
?

10. Yes

'Roundabout'
'Owner Of A Lonely Heart'


11. Chicago

'25 or 6 to 4'
'Saturday In The Park'
'Wishing You Were Here'

12. Duran Duran

'Ordinary World'
'Rio'
'Girl Panic'
'What Happens Tomorrow'

Posted by Enigmaticus on Thursday, 06.19.14 @ 10:20am

Posted by Enigmaticus on Thursday, 06/19/2014 @ 14:15pm

It's almost September!

Posted by Roy on Friday, 06/20/2014 @ 07:39am

Yes Roy, it is almost September; depending on the definition of almost. You see, it is also almost July, and later it will be almost August. Thus it is almost correct to note that it is almost September.

Now, onto my hypothetical ballot for whom might be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in the Class of 2015. It now seems we will be now inducting at least six performers for the actual RRHOF; though I would prefer seven. In addition, I presume there will be two inductees that will go in first ballot. Here then is whom I think right now will be inducted for 2015. This also consists of my ballot as of this moment.


Green Day
Nine Inch Nails
Chic
Eurythmics
N.W.A.
Afrika Bambaataa

If hopefully a seventh inductee is possible, I would put forth Electric Light Orchestra. In addition, I think Link Wray will be inducted as either a Performer or an Influence. As for a Non-Performer: this might be too soon, yet I a open to the idea of Casey Kasem getting inducted.

Well, there is my hypothetical ballot at the moment. Let me know what you fellow posters think of this. For myself, I will be entirely stunned if all these predictions turn out to be correct.

I do apologize to Roy for any potential mockery,

Lax31

Posted by Lax31 on Sunday, 06/22/2014 @ 21:17pm

Green Day and NIN can wait for another year or two, GD is not really that big in the 90s compared to Nirvana, Pearl Jam, Radiohead even Oasis, they became huge when these bands I mentioned were no longer active after year 2000 .

Posted by chuva on Sunday, 06/22/2014 @ 23:22pm

Here are my early predictions:

The 2015 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Nominees
1) Paul Butterfield Blues Band
2) Bon Jovi
3) Chic
4) Jim Croce
5) The Cure
6) Deep Purple
7) Green Day
8) Joan Jett & the Blackhearts
9) LL Cool J
10) Kraftwerk
11) Nine Inch Nails
12) Gram Parsons
13) The Replacements
14) The Spinners
15) Yes
16) The Zombies

5 Wild Card Nominees
1) Chicago
2) Duran Duran
3) Janet Jackson
4) Sonic Youth
5) War

Right Now, I think these will be the 7 inductees for the Class of 2015:
1) Chic
2) Deep Purple
3) Green Day
4) Joan Jett & the Blackhearts
5) Nine Inch Nails
6) N.W.A.
7) The Zombies

I know there are usually 6 inductees as seen in recent years, but I decided to include 7 because I always feel that's a strong possibility occurring with the Rock Hall (look at the sheer number of inductees in the performer category from 1986-2004)

Posted by Nick on Monday, 06/23/2014 @ 01:08am

Nick, those are great lists of nominees, but how the heck did you arrive at such an abysmal class from that list and where did N.W.A. come from? I think that if Duran Duran shows up on the nomination list, they would be immediate inductees.

From your lists, I would choose the following as inductees:

Green Day
Yes
Deep Purple
Chicago
Duran Duran
Jim Croce

No offense Lax31, but your inductees list is even worse.

With the possible exceptions of Deep Purple and maybe Green Day, I would not vote for any of those other artists. In fact your inductees list almost made me stick my finger down my throat, Ugh! yuck!

The Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame needs a spectacular list of inductees and a great ceremony, in order to redeem themselves after this year's debacle.


The Rock Hall is supposed to be about excellence, innovation , influence

Posted by Enigmaticus on Monday, 06/23/2014 @ 04:32am

Sorry Lax31, you did not include Deep Purple on your list. I had meant to say that from your list, I could only support Green Day and Eurythmics, instead. ;-)

Posted by Eurythmics on Monday, 06/23/2014 @ 05:00am

Nick - Not a bad prediction at all. Ignore the delusional Prog slobberers
on the site.

Posted by DarinRG on Monday, 06/23/2014 @ 05:31am

*slobberer - singular, my mistake. I respect most of the Prog fans on this site. Just not the one who thinks that Duran Duran is a prog band.

Posted by DarinRG on Monday, 06/23/2014 @ 05:38am

there's a huge backlog of nominees, this is the right time for previous nominees to be nominated and inducted.

Posted by chuva on Monday, 06/23/2014 @ 06:07am

Since some people are doing this, I think I can post my predictions (might varied to change):

1) The Paul Butterfield Blues Band
2) Bon Jovi
3) Chic
4) Deep Purple
5) Electric Light Orchestra
6) Green Day
7) Joan Jett & The Blackhearts
8) LL Cool J
9) The Meters
10) Nine Inch Nails
11) N.W.A.
12) Lou Reed
13) Sonic Youth
14) Link Wray
15) War
16) The Zombies

Who I want to be inducted:

The Paul Butterfield Blues Band
Chic
Deep Purple
Nine Inch Nails (Green Day can wait)
N.W.A.
Lou Reed
Sonic Youth

Who I think will be inducted:
Bon Jovi/Deep Purple (if the trend of popular snub inducted continues then it will go to either one of them)
Chic (they might be or will wait if they have a tenth nomination)
Electric Light Orchestra (Jeff Lynne has a lot of friends in the Hall)
Green Day (first year lock on some voters)
N.W.A. (probably the only pre-2pac rap act that needs to be inducted)
Nine Inch Nails (the Hall has strong connection with Rolling Stone and NIN is on their official immortals list)
Lou Reed (obligatory singer/songwriter and probably a sympathy vote)

Potential 7th inductees (since there going back to Cleveland, they might get well known inductees):

The Paul Butterfield Blues Band
Sonic Youth
Link Wray
The Zombies

Posted by John R.C. on Monday, 06/23/2014 @ 06:10am

Also, I'm with DarinRG, I really like Nick's predictions.

Posted by John R.C. on Monday, 06/23/2014 @ 06:13am

Sorry, change "Potential 7th slot" to "Wild Cards" since my prediction on who i think will be inducted has 7 artists (8 if you count the Bon Jovi/Purple as two inductees).

Posted by John R.C. on Monday, 06/23/2014 @ 06:18am

Sorry, change "Potential 7th slot" to "Wild Cards" since my prediction on who i think will be inducted has 7 artists (8 if you count the Bon Jovi/Deep Purple thing as two inductees).

Posted by John R.C. on Monday, 06/23/2014 @ 06:18am

I'll probably be changing this list in the coming months, but my early nominees list is as follows:

Nominees:

1. Green Day
2. Nine Inch Nails
3. Jim Croce
4. Kate Bush
5. Deep Purple
6. N.W.A.
7. Yes
8. Chic
9. Paul Butterfield Blues Band
10. The Meters
11. Lou Reed
12. ELO
13. Link Wray (and the Wraymen)
14. Kraftwerk
15. The Zombies
16. Sonic Youth
17. The Spinners

Wild Cards:

WC1: Chicago (Like ELO, they could benefit from the recent snub nominations, but unlike ELO, their nomination is entirely based on whether that old grudge can be mended.)

WC2: Suicide (I don't know how much pull The Boss has on nominees and inductions, but considering he gave an interview where he said that Suicide should be in the Hall of Fame does make one wonder.)

WC3: Tom Petty (solo) (If he gets nominated, he would be close to joining the Clyde McPhatter club, and I'm unsure how much of a palate-teaser that is.)

WC4: Pet Shop Boys (The recent electronic craze could benefit them, but like Chicago, they also have mocked the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. However, unlike Chicago, they're not that big a missing link.)

WC5: Pavement (Entirely depends on whether anybody on the committee remembers this band exists.)

Inductees:

1-5 Guarantee:

1. Kraftwerk (Between Daft Punk's award season and great year and the EDM craze, this is, likely, their biggest year for an induction for that reason, considering neither would happen had it not been for them.)

2. Green Day (The Rock Hall had a pretty bad year last year for ticket sales, and of the nominees I listed, they'd be the most likely first-ballot nominees to try repairing that problem.)

3. Deep Purple (Of my predicted nominees, they're the single biggest hard rock snub, and with no other competitors on the horizon, this would very likely be enough.)

4. Lou Reed (Linda Ronstadt's nomination and subsequent induction opens the door for Reed's posthumous induction and subsequent entry into the Clyde McPhatter Club. Heck, since Peter Gabriel worked with him prior to his death, they would already have somebody for a performance and/or induction speech.)

5. ELO (ELO is the epitome of a "one-and-in" nomination. The only thing they need is to merely GET ON a ballot, and they'd likely get in.)

6-8 Possible:

6. Sonic Youth (Entirely depends on if they get on the ballot to begin with. If they do, they have a fairly straightforward shot in.)

7. Kate Bush (The Hall's attracted criticism for both lacking in prog rock and lacking in female performers. Kate Bush's induction would be a great answer against both those criticisms, and it's of a person who had major influence on the 90s. She'd be a good welcome wagon for the decade to come.)

8. N.W.A. (It's pretty much do-or-die for them. If they don't get in this year, they'll be up against a long line of the artists they inspired, and many of them won't have a lot of trouble attracting votes off of them. Perhaps, then, Dre's good year may JUST BARELY be enough...)

WC1 - Jim Croce (If anybody on the above list doesn't get nominated (and with Kate Bush and ELO, that's a possibility), Jim would become the first moved-up candidate. He would appeal to the singer/songwriter voters, and is the most likely one to make the list.)

WC2 - Chicago (In the event the old grudge can be mended and they get nominated, they're a likely shoo-in. Considering KISS got in, and they had that resistance for years, the possibility is there.)

Just my guessing. In all likelihood, I'm totally wrong. When the list of nominees gets announced, I'll post an updated ranking (unless I'm on the mark here...at which point I'll faint.)

Posted by SotN on Monday, 06/23/2014 @ 06:46am

*slobberer - singular, my mistake. I respect most of the Prog fans on this site. Just not the one who thinks that Duran Duran is a prog band.

Posted by DarinRG on Monday, 06.23.14 @ 05:38am


Ooh DarinRG, I am so hurt. ;-)

Actually, if I had been concerned about what people have said about me for aeons, I would. Luckily, I am not.

Apparently, you don't like "progressive rock," You are certainly entitled not to. But please enlighten me as to why those lists are not lacking.

I do however like SotN's nominees list. So please enlighten us and provide your own list. We would love to hear what you
have to say; wouldn't we?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Monday, 06/23/2014 @ 10:20am

Duran Duran is not a prog band. I love prog. And I love Duran Duran. But they are not related.

Posted by Dezmond on Monday, 06/23/2014 @ 10:52am

I think, SotN, that you are very close to the mark. Here's my predictions, which overlap yours to a great degree.

The 2014 ballot released in Oct. 2013 was unbelievably strong, and its likely that many 1st time nominees we saw will get some further attention.

1. NWA: Questlove and others have all but declared their intent to get them in this coming year. In the same way that induction for Ronstadt was cleared by no other female artists on the ballot last year, don't expect LL Cool J, Eric B. & Rakim, or anyone else on board.

2. Lou Reed: He died just a hair too late for consideration in the 2014 class. I hate Velvet Underground and their alumni, but most of the people who make these decisions fawn over them. Lou will be on the ballot again.

3. Deep Purple: I don't like them that much either, but there's no denying how important they were to the unfolding of heavy metal. They should have gotten in last year.

4. Yes: I have a completely unprovable theory that Yes got voted in, realized they had a schedule conflict with the ceremony because of the progressive rock cruise they committed to, and it was quietly agreed to push their induction back a year. Either way, now that they've been on the ballot, they'll be back. And hopefully, a Yes induction will pave the way for Jethro Tull, The Moody Blues, etc.

5. Green Day: The most popular pop-punk band ever? They seem poised to follow Nirvana as a rare first-year-eligible induction.

6. Nine Inch Nails: Less likely to get in, but almost as likely to get a nomination.

7. Carole King: Isn't she the next one in the singer-songwriter pecking order? Her induction as a non-performer doesn't do justice to "Tapestry", maybe one of the ten most culturally significant albums of the 70s, and her long, successful touring history.

8. Joan Jett: Her performance at last year's ceremony reminded us of how good she really was. She's been on the ballot before, and this boost in rock hall esteem will work in her favor.

9. Sonic Youth: See #8. They will replace The Replacements in the "alternative rock pioneers" slot.

10. De La Soul: Questlove and others have made it clear that they are pulling for them.

11. The Zombies: A lot of people were rooting for The Zombies last year, including myself. Rock critics love them, the public recognizes a few of their songs, and they would be a good way to close the book on British Invasion bands. This will be their year, took a long time to come.

12. The Dire Straits: No proof, no evidence, just a hunch. They're too good of a band to have not gotten any consideration, and there's no plausible explanation on why they haven't gotten nominated yet that sticks.

13. The Eurythmics: We're going to be getting more 80s nominees from here on in, and its hard to think of a more representative group from this decade.

14. Link Wray: Lots of rock historians were edified by Wray's appearance on the ballot last year. With the ceremony at Cleveland this year, and expectations thus a bit lower, an influential nominee with little name recognition might have a better chance.

15. Bill Withers: Another singer-songwriter, but his soulful approach will hopefully keep votes from being drawn away from Carole King.

16. Chicago: The hall, as others have pointed out, has gotten more populist lately, and lots of commercially successful bands that were snubbed are finally getting recognized. If Hall & Oates can get in, why not Chicago? They had more hits than any rock band not in the Hall of Fame, and between Kath's guitar, Seraphine's drums, Cetera's vocals, and Pankow's horn arrangements, there's no denying they pass the "excellence" test. Robert Lamm reported last year that sources told him they were the last cut from the ballot for the class of 2014.

Another thing to consider: the Rock Hall wants to avoid another KISS fiasco. Chicago's lowered their criticism of the rock hall in recent years, and both the band and Peter Cetera have intimidated that a rock hall performance is the only way on earth that a reunion would happen. It could draw some good press for all parties concerned if it happens.

---

Other thoughts:

I. If Chic couldn't get in two years ago when Nile Rodgers was sick, and couldn't get in last year when "Get Lucky" saturated the air waves, Chic probably isn't getting in. I wish the Rock Hall would Give Nile Rodgers a Lifetime Achievement Award and move on.

II. No Stevie Ray this year. If Link Wray and Lou Reed get in, that's two dead guys already, and you just don't want to risk an induction ceremony where half of the inductees are deceased.

III. Kraftwerk deserves it, but I don't think that we'll see Yes and Kraftwerk on the same ballot. Whie Kraftwerk is electronic and Yes is progressive, they both have too similar a voting base.

Posted by PopeCharming on Monday, 06/23/2014 @ 10:54am

And that should be "intimated", not "intimidated". Peter Cetera and Chicago might be the least intimidating people this side of Air Supply.

Posted by PopeCharming on Monday, 06/23/2014 @ 10:58am

Thank you DarinRG and John R.C. for supporting my predictions for the 2015 class. It is only late June, so this is simply my early predictions and that is a long time away from September. As we all know, it is VERY difficult trying to figure out how the nominating committee will root for in a given year. Enigmaticus seems to have some sort of lovefest when it comes to Duran Duran because it seems like every post on the forums here has something to do with them. Yes, Enigmaticus I support Duran Duran going into the Rock Hall soon, but I'm not going to lose sleep if they don't (unlike you apparently). A problem I am realizing with many posters here is that their prediction lists are too one-sided; remember, the Rock Hall nominees have to be diverse musically (Rock, Pop, Rap, Soul, etc). Picking all Prog Rock and Alternative groups for potential nominees will never happen and that is something to keep in mind when creating such lists.

Posted by Nick on Monday, 06/23/2014 @ 14:48pm

"Nick, those are great lists of nominees, but how the heck did you arrive at such an abysmal class from that list and where did N.W.A. come from?"--Enigmaticus

From the fact that ?uestlove and Tom Morello have basically agreed to both work for N.W.A. on the next ballot, that they've been nominated twice now, and that they're a highly influential and a somewhat innovative group. I think you'd better re-read the instructions on your bottle of Rio-gra. I'm pretty it says, "If your raging LeBoner lasts more than four months, consult a doctor... the kind with a straightjacket."

Nick, that's a pretty realistic list. The only changes I would say are absolute must-fixes would be to have only one 80's alt-rock act instead of two, and that it would be Sonic Youth. Like N.W.A., both Morello and ?uestlove are in agreement for pushing for Sonic Youth. Also, Jim Croce's a good choice, but a little out of left field. It's not unheard of for them to pick a singer/songwriter that hadn't even been considered before, but if they do that, I'd wager they'd go for another one in the Tom Waits company, which would most likely suggest Warren Zevon. If they do go with one that has at least been considered before, I say even money for Todd Rundgren. Other than that, any disagreements are purely opinion not based on any speculation of past decisions by the NomCom.

Posted by Philip on Monday, 06/23/2014 @ 20:10pm

Since when was this last induction a debacle. Yes the KISS issue was annoying, but the rest of the induction was incredible.

Also, I preface this by saying that I like Duran Duran and I like them more than N.W.A. However if you take Tom Morello's criteria of influence, innovation and awesomeness N.W.A. >>>>>>> Duran Duran and its not even close.

Posted by Gassman on Monday, 06/23/2014 @ 20:49pm

1. Green Day
2. Deep Purple
3. Chicago
4. Duran Duran
5. Link Wray
6. War
7. LL Cool J

I'd prefer LL over NWA, but it will probably go the other way. I'd also prefer Sonic Youth in there, but don't think it will happen.

Two other omissions that nobody seems to mention here:

1. Soundgarden - They've now been on the ballot for several yrs. They fit the bill where everything is concerned. They are on tour in a double bill this summer w/NIN, who are receiving some consideration here. Perhaps they'll have to wait until Pearl Jam gets in (who knows, maybe the Hall would like a Temple of the Dog get together at some point). While no one has even bothered to mention them, they might be an out-of-nowhere dark horse.

2. Not a single person has mentioned Garth Brooks is up for induction as well. People have been bringing up the recent ceremony as a poor one in terms of ticket sales & the KISS jumble. While most folks are loathe to acknowledge this, Brooks has a greater fan base than anyone else being mentioned here. In addition, he's a relatively safe nod, performance-wise, and would also catch people off-guard if he was inducted. If you want a 1005 guaranteed audience to tune in, Brooks, more than anyone else, really fits the bill here.

The Hall brought that misery on themselves last year. I think most everyone realized that Nirvana was meant to be the top of the bill, but that somebody else had to be there, for purposes of the audience. This left a spot open that any of several name acts could've taken. Why they chose KISS remains to be seen, but they should've realized what they were getting into. Personally I thought everything went off o.k.

Posted by Cheesecrop on Tuesday, 06/24/2014 @ 06:55am

BTW, that "1005" should read "100%".

Posted by Cheesecrop on Tuesday, 06/24/2014 @ 06:59am

SotN and PopeCharming, your nominees lists are outstanding. By the way, so is Nick's.

It is always good to hear from both of you, Dezmond and Cheesecrop.

Now, as far as my Duran Duran obsession is concerned; simply put, I want one of my best friend's favorite bands to get in. The way that I see it, various members on the nomination committee have been subtly supporting this for
quite a while. She would be thrilled to attend the ceremony and I would have a legitimate reason for taking a vacation, for the first time in over 26 years. Of course, if that doesn't happen, there is always 2016, isn't there?

Philip, your comment about Rio-gra was absolutely hilarious. Cheesecrop, I would not be upset about a Garth Brook's induction, either.

Now, as to why DarinRG, does not like, nor respect me. Well, I had been somewhat perturbed by one of his earlier comments. However, if I had a dollar for every person who in the past, present and future has not liked me, I would be the richest man on this planet 1000 times over. It doesn't bother me at all. I might add that I am extremely proud to have never had any relationships, as well.

Now, as to my list:


These are the artists whom I would like to see nominated for the rrhof induction in 2015

1. Duran Duran
2. The Moody Blues
3. Yes
4. Stevie Ray Vaughan
5. Sade
6. Doobie Brothers
7. Carly Simon
8. Chicago
9. Foreigner
10. Electric Light Orchestra
11. Green Day
12. Phish
13. The Meters
14. Deep Purple
15. Ice-T

And as producers:

Todd Rundgren
Brian Eno
Nile Rodgers

And as far as long overdue songwriter's inductions are concerned:

Bernie Taupin

Posted by Enigmaticus on Tuesday, 06/24/2014 @ 08:24am

I still really like this idea for the 2015 ceremony, I think that it covers most of the bases:

So I have heard that the 2014 Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame induction ceremony wasn't that great. I wonder how well a 6 hr. Ceremony would go over?

Can you imagine a ceremony honoring these artists in 2015?


Oh what the heck, let's add Chicago and E.L.O. and Bernie Taupin to the mix. Then, let's revise the songs themselves:

1. Bernie Taupin

'Daniel'
'Someone Saved My Life Tonight'
'Your Song'

2. Sade

'Smooth Operator'
'No Ordinary Love'

3. Electric Light Orchestra

'Sweet Talkin' Woman'
'Turn To Stone'
'Mr. Blue Sky'

4. Doobie Brothers

'Long Train Running'
'China Grove'
'Black Water'
'You Belong To Me (with Carly Simon)'

5. Carly Simon

'Nobody Does It Better'
'Let The River Run'
'You're So Vain'

6. Foreigner

'I Want To Know What Love Is'
'Cold As Ice'

7. Deep Purple

'Smoke On The Water'
'Burn'
'Hush'

8. The Moody Blues

'I'm Just A Singer In A Rock & Roll Band'
'Legend Of A Mind'
'Nights In White Satin'

9. Green Day

?
?

10. Yes

'Roundabout'
'Owner Of A Lonely Heart'


11. Chicago

'25 or 6 to 4'
'Saturday In The Park'
'Wishing You Were Here'

12. Duran Duran

'Ordinary World'
'Rio'
'Girl Panic'
'What Happens Tomorrow'


This list, as far as I am concerned, has a lot of diversity and covers the following genres: singer- songwriters (Carly Simon), hard rock (Foreigner), progressive rock (Yes, The Moody Blues, E.L.O.), rock & roll (The Doobie Brothers), jazz/ rhythm and blues (Sade), jazz rock (Chicago), alternative rock
(Green Day) and of course (that never agreed upon category,you can call it "art rock," "new wave" whatever, but it is definitely hard to define and great (Duran Duran). I would not be upset by Queen Latifah, or Ice-T's induction, either. I think that they represent the perfect balance between those two worlds. I am against groups however who advocate hatred against minorities, women, et cetera.

I could try to work Garth Brooks into the ceremony, but given his level of star power, perhaps 2016 would be more appropriate. I am not familiar enough with Green Day's output to come up with a song list, either.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Tuesday, 06/24/2014 @ 08:46am

I really like Cheesecrop's inductee list as well.

I really have difficulty defining two of those inductees on my list: Deep Purple and Duran Duran. At first, Deep Purple was more of an early "progressive rock" band (Mark I), then they veered off in a harder direction (Mark II), then they became an amalgam of those two styles, plus blues (Mark III). Then, their former members formed two huge bands : Rainbow and Whitesnake, then they regrouped, it is all so confusing.

Duran Duran is another hard band to define. In their early days, they were more eclectic, then they became New Romantics, then they became far more sophisticated musically. They have explored many different styles of music, from orchestral rock to funk to pop to a comination of styles, so I simply define them as "art rock," and that's where the controversy begins.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Tuesday, 06/24/2014 @ 09:08am

I really like Cheesecrop's inductee list as well.

I really have difficulty defining two of those inductees on my list: Deep Purple and Duran Duran. At first, Deep Purple was more of an early "progressive rock" band (Mark I), then they veered off in a harder direction (Mark II), then they became an amalgam of those two styles, plus blues (Mark III). Then, their former members formed two huge bands : Rainbow and Whitesnake, then they regrouped, it is all so confusing.

Duran Duran is another hard band to define. In their early days, they were more eclectic, then they became New Romantics, then they became far more sophisticated musically. They have explored many different styles of music, from orchestral rock to funk to pop to a combination of styles, so I simply define them as "art rock," and that's where the controversy begins.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Tuesday, 06/24/2014 @ 09:37am

Enigmaticus:

Good set list for the Induction Ceremony. That would certainly take care of most big genres and some long standing snubs. Just thought I'd add to your set list with some thoughts on Green Day's set list. I'm thinking "Good Riddance (Time Of Your Life)" and at least one song from Dookie (their breakthrough album, I'm thinking "When I Come Around" or perhaps "Welcome To Paradise").

The problem comes with picking a third song. "American Idiot" would be a logical choice as it was a huge song from a cultural standpoint at the time but it might not play well with some of the crowd (too political though maybe it'll be ok as long as no one invites Ted Nugent or Toby Keith). If they play it safe they might go with either "Brain Stew" or "21 Guns"

Out of curiousity why only two songs for Yes?

Posted by Tom H. on Tuesday, 06/24/2014 @ 11:02am

Enig, Green Day would get 4 songs, as a 1st time inductee. IMO, those would be:

Longview
When I Come Around
American Idiot
Jesus of Suburbia

The noted pop band Duran Duran would get 3 songs.

Posted by Paul in KY on Tuesday, 06/24/2014 @ 14:09pm

Now that I'm starting to think about it, I am not sure if Nine Inch Nails will be be first-ballot Hall of Famers because the 2015 nominees list looks like it can be quite stacked (like the 2013 and 2014 nomination lists). I think Nine Inch Nails will definitely appear on the 2015 ballot (and in my opinion they would easily be first-ballot Hall of Famers), but they might be a tough sell with Green Day also appearing for the first time as well. Realistically, Nine Inch Nails will probably get in on their 2nd or 3rd try.

The 4 Locks for 2015 Inductions: Chic, Deep Purple, Green Day, N.W.A.

The Other 2 Inductees: 1 Woman and 1 Singer-Songwriter
-WOMEN: Joan Jett, Janet Jackson or Sonic Youth (Kim Gordon)
-SINGER/SONGWRITER: Jim Croce, Gram Parsons
-Potential 7th Inductee: Yes or The Zombies

These are my 7 early predictions for the 2015 Rock Hall: Chic, Jim Croce, Deep Purple, Green Day, Jaon Jett and the Blackhearts, N.W.A., Yes

Posted by Nick on Tuesday, 06/24/2014 @ 14:39pm

Sorry, I misspelled Joan Jett's name at the end of my post.

Posted by Nick on Tuesday, 06/24/2014 @ 15:18pm

One thing i noticed about subcatergories is that they go in a three year roatation.

2009, 2012: an Early Influence and 3 Sidemen, though the Non-Performer didn't happened

2010, 2013: Just Non-Performers

2011, 2014: Two Non-Performers and a well known Sidemen

If this continue I might predict that they might do the 2009/2012 thing.

If they don't do the same mistakes they've done in the Early Influence (who was in the Performer inducted), I might predict that the Early Influence would be Sister Rosetta Tharpe, who is way overdue for an induction.

Though it is two early for an Non-Performer, I think they might go pick Casey Kasem, but it might 50/50 chance (worked for Don Kirshner but not Don Cornelious)

If they could do it to the E Street Band, then I think the Belmonts, Wailers and the Silver Bullet Band should be next.

Posted by John R.C. on Tuesday, 06/24/2014 @ 16:53pm

"Now, as far as my Duran Duran obsession is concerned; simply put, I want one of my best friend's favorite bands to get in. The way that I see it, various members on the nomination committee have been subtly supporting this for
quite a while. She would be thrilled to attend the ceremony and I would have a legitimate reason for taking a vacation, for the first time in over 26 years. Of course, if that doesn't happen, there is always 2016, isn't there?"--Enig.

Aha!! The ulterior motive is unmasked! It's all about making a hopefully future girlfriend very happy!

FTR, I don't disagree with Duran Duran as an inductee. But the constant obsession makes me want them to wait until you can calm down. We went through this with Lax before and his love affair with Peter Gabriel, which got ridiculous to the point where he was predicting a "tree induction" for every little project involving any former member of Genesis. Which was compounded by his sidebar affairs with Donna Summer, Cat Stevens, and the Eurythmics. You're did this with Rush, and now that they're in, not only has THAT not fully subsided, but you're adding this fixation with Duran Duran, with Sade, Yes, and Deep Purple too (and insisting on a class of 12, which will NOT be happening any time soon). NONE of whom (except possibly Sade, whom I don't hate, but think she's/they're a long shot at this point) I would have any objection to getting inducted except for the fact that you would be insufferable on this forum until well after the ceremonies. In short, tone it down, Spinal Tap: you don't need to go to eleven.

Cheesecrop: Garth Brooks can stay the hell away from the Hall. That thunder can roll to Nashville, just not Cleveland. I would rather see solo Steve Perry get inducted than Garth Brooks.

I don't post "dream ballots" just because what point is a dream ballot? What's the point of wanting to see someone's name on the ballot if you're not wanting to see them immediately inducted? A dream class I would do. And I try to make accurate, realistic predictions to who will actually be nominated. That'll come closer to September, maybe even in early to mid-September.

Posted by Philip on Tuesday, 06/24/2014 @ 20:38pm

Thank you Tom H. The reason why I had only chosen two songs by Yes is due to their length. Personally, I would like to see "Classic Yes" perform 'Awaken,' but I know that is not likely to occur.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Wednesday, 06/25/2014 @ 00:36am

"Now, as far as my Duran Duran obsession is concerned; simply put, I want one of my best friend's favorite bands to get in. The way that I see it, various members on the nomination committee have been subtly supporting this for
quite a while. She would be thrilled to attend the ceremony and I would have a legitimate reason for taking a vacation, for the first time in over 26 years. Of course, if that doesn't happen, there is always 2016, isn't there?"--Enig.

"Aha!! The ulterior motive is unmasked! It's all about making a hopefully future girlfriend very happy!"

Actually no, that would make her boyfriend extremely jealous. Plus, i had stated previously that i was very proud of the fact that i have never had a relationship, n'est-ce pas?

No, in this case I am attempting to support a good friend who had helped me to get out of a sticky situation a few years ago.

Is it an obsession, perhaps? But then very few things in my life provide me with any real comfort, other than perhaps doing online crossword puzzles on Dictionary.com and answering quizzes on sporcle.com.

Will any of this effort ever be truly appreciated; probably not.
But then I am used to that. I can state almost unequivocally, without the slightest hesitation whatsoever, that for the most part, "nobody has ever really appreciated anything that I have ever done for them." This includes various organizations that I have helped throughout the years, as well. I have never really fit in with any group, and being ostracized has always been something that I have been used to. So, when I see an artist who deserves acknowledgement for improving other individuals lives, I get slightly indignant when that artist is ignored repeatedly.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Wednesday, 06/25/2014 @ 03:50am

Thank you, Nick.

That is a much better list. Although, I do not really like Joan Jett, I can still accept her induction much more than i could that of N.W.A.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Wednesday, 06/25/2014 @ 08:23am

As far as these lists are concerned: I think that it ultimately comes down to what resonates with you, personally. I had found out a long time ago, that "progressive rock" music had appealed to me personally, in a way that neither "heavy metal, nor punk rock ever could.

Therefore after discovering Rush, Pink Floyd and The Moody Blues, I had looked towards finding other progressive rock artists. I had found out that Yes had also held a certain amount of fascination for me, in addition to: Genesis, Jethro Tull and eventually, King Crimson.

I will not say that I enjoy the music of every "prog rock" band, because I do not. However, I am much more likely to at least
attempt to listen to another band of this genre of rock music , then dismiss them entirely.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Wednesday, 06/25/2014 @ 09:22am

As far as these lists are concerned: I think that it ultimately comes down to what resonates with you, personally. I had found out a long time ago, that "progressive rock" music had appealed to me personally, in a way that neither "heavy metal, nor punk rock ever could.

Therefore after discovering Rush, Pink Floyd and The Moody Blues, I had looked towards finding other progressive rock artists. I had found out that Yes had also held a certain amount of fascination for me, in addition to: Genesis, Jethro Tull and eventually, King Crimson.

I will not say that I enjoy the music of every "prog rock" band, because I do not. However, I am much more likely to at least
attempt to listen to another band of this genre of rock music , than dismiss them entirely. In fact it was due to my "prog" appreciation, that I had discovered the music of groups like Talking Heads, etc.
Posted by Enigmaticus on Wednesday, 06.25.14 @ 09:22am

Posted by Enigmaticus on Wednesday, 06/25/2014 @ 09:27am

** Here's MY Dream Ballot for 2015:**

The Belmonts (Special Committee)

The Wailers (Special Committee)

Dionne Warwick

The Commodores

Neil Sedaka

Gene Chandler

Brook Benton

Connie Francis

The Doobie Brothers

Chicago

The Spinners

The Marvelettes

Ella Fitzgerald (Early Influence)

Don Cornelius (Non Performer)

Posted by Bill G. on Wednesday, 06/25/2014 @ 11:48am

That would be a Hell of a ballot, Bill!

Posted by Paul in KY on Wednesday, 06/25/2014 @ 13:41pm

...It sure WOULD, Paul !!

Sadly , it probably will never happen. That's why it's called a DREAM Ballot .

Posted by Bill G. on Wednesday, 06/25/2014 @ 13:56pm

Bill G. re The Wailers
as per
Posted by Roy on Saturday, 06.2.12 @ 23:08pm
there are some 17 listed artists ...
I know its a Smokey/The Miracles kind of thing, but The Miracles were for most part one cohesive group.

Posted by Telarock on Wednesday, 06/25/2014 @ 14:15pm

This is true, Telarock.

But Bob Marley was inducted alone, without the other original Wailers, Peter Tosh and Bunny Livingstone (Wailer).

They were one cohesive group too, just as the Miracles were.

There are still a few groups out there that the Hall needs to provide corrections for; i.e. The Belmonts, Wailers,Silver Bullet Band,etc

I doubt that The Valentinos will be inducted, even though like Buffalo Springfield,and The Faces, they were HUGHLY influential, although having just a handful of hits.

But only ONE of the brothers, Bobby Womack , was inducted ,Wikipedia has articles on at least two of the other Womack Brothers (Valentinos) due to their other music industry accomplishments:

Cecil (who died just last year)

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cecil_Womack

who had a very successful recording and songwriting career after The Valentinos, and

Harry,who was a successful background vocalist for brother Bobby and others , who was sadly murdered at the age of 28.

Posted by Bill G. on Wednesday, 06/25/2014 @ 16:31pm

Harry Womack

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harry_Womack

Anotherone of the brothers, Curtis Womack, has also recorded solo. He was the Valentinos' original lead singer, before Sam Cooke had Bobby take over, and he also led on several songs when the group recorded Gospel, as The Womack Brothers.

http://www.artistdirect.com/nad/store/artist/album/0,,2643694,00.html

Posted by Bill G. on Wednesday, 06/25/2014 @ 16:39pm

"Now, as to why DarinRG, does not like, nor respect me.."

Well, in fairness, I don't know you in reality so I can't say I don't like you. I can generally get along with most anyone in real life.

If you want to know about the respect part, your repetitive obsessiveness and seeming inability to accept or embrace any ideas that people may submit from outside your bubble is really grating.

It's fine to have favorite artists and genres that you support, we all do and mine are well documented, but it's hard to take anyone seriously in a forum when they won't step outside their small bubble.

Prog fans and Alt fans have the worst reputations for being obnoxious boors and unwilling to accept anything outside their area of preference. This site has finally gotten to a point where the active Prog and Alt fans do accept, embrace, discuss and support broader interests, so at this point having someone stuck in the Prog bubble, especially with such frequent, repetitive and long winded posts just really stands out in an obnoxious way. And I'm a huge fan of Duran Duran (though, not a Prog band.)

"Well, I had been somewhat perturbed by one of his earlier comments."

That probably puts you in line with about everybody else around here, and half the regulars have said something that irritated me. It's just part of putting yourself out there on a public forum with people of differing viewpoints and personalities. I can't think of anything that I've said to you that was unwarranted, and I do remember these things. I think I overreacted to something that PopeCharming said a while back and said some unfair and hypocritical things to jtrichey during a disagreement a year or two ago (both of whom I think are valuable members of our group), but for the most part I stand by my comments and opinions even if they're sometimes born of frustration or irritation.

Posted by DarinRG on Wednesday, 06/25/2014 @ 17:28pm

"If they could do it to the E Street Band, then I think the Belmonts, Wailers and the Silver Bullet Band should be next.

Posted by John R.C."

Agreed, my friend. Throw in Patti Smith's band (Kaye, Sohl, Kral, Daugherty) and I think the hall would have fixed all of its blunders in regards to the "Only inducting the frontman" problem. Oh! Zappa & Joplin too, I guess, although I'm truthfully not too well versed in their histories.

Although they still have band members that should've been inducted with their bands that weren't, in my opinion, such as Carmassi & Andes for Heart, Dio for Sabbath, Forriest for the Coasters, Mackay for the Stooges, Howie Johnson for the Ventures, Richie Ramone for the Ramones, etc.

Posted by Steve Z on Wednesday, 06/25/2014 @ 23:55pm

and Joe Long for The FOUR SEASONS and Alonzo Tucker for THE MIDNIGHTERS .

Posted by Bill G. on Thursday, 06/26/2014 @ 00:36am

I know this is a long shot in terms of inductions, but I'm really rooting for Mary Wells becoming a Rock Hall inductee soon. She was proclaimed "the queen of Motown" and sung one of the music company's most famous songs "My Guy" (1964). She has been nominated twice, but those nominations occurred in 1986 and 1987 (the first 2 years the Rock Hall began inducting artists and non-performers). She deserves a spot in the Rock Hall (the only other Motown act that should only be considered is The Marvelettes who was nominated last year), but her chances don't look too well at this point. Most people only know her because of "My Guy" and left Motown at the peak of her fame that didn't capture the same success. She seems to be forgotten by the nominating committee through the years which is a shame.

Posted by Nick on Saturday, 06/28/2014 @ 18:36pm

http://rockhall.com/inductees/

The 2014 Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame Inductee Bios are now complete, but no more timelines.

Posted by Roy on Saturday, 07/5/2014 @ 21:00pm

So since you guys have been posting your dream ballots, I thought I'd postulate a new mental exercise. Since we're pretty much expecting that either Green Day or Nine Inch Nails is a shoo-in for next year, if the rest of the inductees were repeat nominees, what would your dream class of 2015 look like. Again it must be:

Either (Green Day OR Nine Inch Nails) + 5 past nominees.

My class of 2015 (Performers):
1. Green Day
2. The Spinners
3. The Marvelettes
4. Bon Jovi
5. Eric B. And Rakim
6. The Dominoes

How about you guys?

Posted by Philip on Thursday, 07/17/2014 @ 22:23pm

Under those circumstances, my non-ideal dream class would look like this:

1. Green Day
2. Yes
3. The Meters
4. J. Geils Band
5. Deep Purple
6. The Zombies

Posted by Enigmaticus on Friday, 07/18/2014 @ 04:36am

Or better yet, this one instead:

1. Green Day
2. Yes
3. Procol Harum
4. The Meters
5. The Zombies
6. Deep Purple

Posted by Enigmaticus on Friday, 07/18/2014 @ 04:39am

Phillip,

My Dream Ballot (under your rules) would be:

1. Green Day
2. Spinners
3. War
4. The Doobie Brothers
5. Deep Purple
6. ELO

Posted by Paul in KY on Friday, 07/18/2014 @ 07:29am

Paul, I don't mean to trample on your dream ballot, but the Doobie Brothers and ELO were never formally nominated.

Under Philip's guidelines (which I assume to include nominees from earlier than the class of 2014), I would love to see:

1. Green Day
2. The Zombies
3. Yes
4. Kraftwerk
5. The Spinners
6. Carole King (who was apparently a nominee as a performer way back in 1989.)

Posted by PopeCharming on Friday, 07/18/2014 @ 07:57am

Dream Ballot (under Philip's guidelines):

Chic
Deep Purple
Green Day
Kraftwerk
N.W.A.
Gram Parsons

Honorable Mentions: The Cure, Eric B. & Rakim, MC5, New York Dolls, Lou Reed, The Replacements, The Spinners, Yes and The Zombies

Posted by Gassman on Friday, 07/18/2014 @ 08:47am

Thank you PopeCharming for correcting me. I didn't read close enough, it appears. In that case:

1) Green Day
2) Spinners
3) War
4) Deep Purple
5) The Cure
6) The Replacements

Posted by Paul in KY on Friday, 07/18/2014 @ 12:26pm

Six nominees in a dream ballot, all of which are previous nominees with Green Day and/or NIN as an exception? Hmm:

1. Green Day
2. The Zombies
3. Gram Parsons
4. Kraftwerk
5. The Marvelettes
6. MC5

Posted by SotN on Friday, 07/18/2014 @ 12:54pm

By the way, if allowed a slot for an Early Influence past nominee, I'd pick the "5" Royales.

Posted by SotN on Friday, 07/18/2014 @ 13:00pm

PopeCharming,

I was considering whether or not to stipulate on that one. I figured I'd let it go, considering the rousing endorsement of her induction as a Performer by the fine folks here. I am curious as to what you'd swap her out with if I went hard-ass and said no to her. Consider it more an infection of curiosity rather than a stalwart demand, though.

SotN, I understand the desire to put the "5" Royales as an EI, but I personally loathe the idea. Wanda Jackson and Freddie King were bad enough, but doing that with the Five Royales would give them the precedent to do that with any number of important R&B vocal groups, such as the Clovers, Diamonds, Spaniels, Five Satins, etc. If you're going to induct them, do it right and recognize doo-wop as Rock And Roll and not some protoplasm of it.

Posted by Philip on Friday, 07/18/2014 @ 22:45pm

In that case, Philip, Chic would be my sixth choice (partly because I think they are the most important disco group not in, and partly to put an end to them getting nominated every single year.)

Posted by PopeCharming on Friday, 07/18/2014 @ 23:09pm

My dream ballot with these stipulations

Green Day
Yes
Deep Purple
Mary Wells
Chic
The Spinners

Posted by Tom H. on Friday, 07/18/2014 @ 23:15pm

Philip: I'm not a fan of that stipulation myself (and was relieved that they didn't pull it this year with Link Wray), and if I want to avoid it, I'm more than willing to pull The Zombies from my ballot for them. No offense to the Zombies, love them like crazy, but my ballot was composed primarily of trailblazers who've yet to get their just due.

Posted by SotN on Friday, 07/18/2014 @ 23:44pm

Pope, I know how you feel. I almost put Kraftwerk on my list just to get that elephant out of the room, too, but I didn't go that route. I put the five that are probably the highest combined score between how I rank them by merit, and how i rank them by personal taste.

SotN, no need to move the Zombies. They're a fairly deserving group as well, and one I really like as well, being an Oldies freak that I am.

Overall, I'm really liking these lists. Most of the choices are either ones I like, or ones that I don't care for but readily acknowledge their worthiness.

I hope you guys aren't resentful of the "stipulations" or "rules" as you call them. Just trying to have some fun with this while also being realistic about how 1 or 2 past nominees get in each year (usually).

Keep 'em coming, I'm genuinely enjoying this! Hope you are too.

Posted by Philip on Saturday, 07/19/2014 @ 00:23am

Philip: Not a problem.

Out of curiosity, if you wanted to put in an Early Influence for a dream ballot (past nomination or no), who'd you go for? Myself, I'd vouch for Sister Rosetta Tharpe. I still can't believe somebody who influenced three people who made the first Rock and Roll inductees list (Lewis, Presley, and Richard) as well as arguably the most important country artist (Cash) still has yet to get her accolades from the Hall.

Posted by SotN on Sunday, 07/20/2014 @ 16:46pm

Going by Philip's stipulations with Green Day/Nine Inch Nails + 5 past nominees, here would be my ballot....

1. Green Day
2. Deep Purple
3. Kraftwerk
4. N.W.A.
5. The Spinners
6. Yes

Posted by Donnie on Sunday, 07/20/2014 @ 19:15pm

SotN, a lot of us also support Sister Rosetta Tharpe. Definitely a big one. The Ravens are a strong favorite too, though with awesome jams like Bye Bye Baby Blues and Write Me A Letter, might fit better into Performer than EI. Fats Waller is a seminal blues figure who's deserving, and I would say the Mills Brothers are much like Louis Jordan, who used their popularity with White audiences to seriously advance Black music. So any of those four would be serious cred for the Hall if they were inducted this coming round.

Posted by Philip on Sunday, 07/20/2014 @ 20:22pm

From the woman in my life:

Green Day
Bon Jovi
Ben E. King
The Marvelettes
The Spinners
The Zombies

Posted by Philip on Sunday, 07/20/2014 @ 20:41pm

My predictions for he 2015 rock hall nominations:
Bon Jovi, Chic, Deep Purple, Green Day, Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, Janet Jackson, LL Cool J, Nine Inch Nails, N.W.A., Gram Parsons, Lou Reed, Sonic Youth, The Spinners, Joe Tex, Yes, The Zombies

Posted by Nick on Monday, 07/21/2014 @ 18:36pm

Here is my list for the 2015 nominees:

Green Day
Nine Inch Nails
NWA
Yes
Deep Purple
Gram Parsons

For an early influence, Sister Rosetta Tharpe or Cab Calloway

Posted by Andrew on Monday, 07/21/2014 @ 19:38pm

So, beings we don't have a 2015 Nominees page up yet, I figured this section was the best one to bring this up.

Every year, the Hall of Fame always nominates a left-field pick that no one sees coming at all. It's usually an artist from an "outside genre" like jazz, country, blues, avant garde, etc.

Does anyone think it's possible that with all of the attention he's been getting in the media, and particular with Rolling Stone, that "Weird Al" Yankovic could see a nomination on the ballot for the 2015 class?

I'm sure many people's first instinct will be to say "yeah right," "no way," or just start laughing. But he has been getting a lot of publicity and attention lately for his latest album which in many ways has been the biggest success of his career, some 35 years into his career. What other artist has accomplished that? He's officially hit the record books this week with the elite artists from the 80's as he's now become the only artists with Michael Jackson and Madonna to have a top 40 single ("Word Crimes" in his case) in the 80's, 90's, 00's, 10's.

Those are all great accomplishments, but the big question will be will the HOF look at things like that and thus consider him? The Hall has become much more populist in the last few years so commercial success, while the Hall won't publicly admit it, is becoming more and more important.

But again, he has been getting a lot of attention from Rolling Stone, not only in the last week, but in the last few years actually.

I think the thing with Al is that it'd be really difficult to find someone on the Nominating Committee that would push for him. The older 60's era people on the Nominating Committee obviously wouldn't push for Al, so it'd have to be one of the younger members. But I just don't see Tom Morello, Questlove, or other younger members being big pushers for him.

However, I think if he did end up on the ballot, I think he would get a lot more votes from present HOF members than many would think. I could see artists like Madonna, Paul McCartney, Jimmy Page, David Byrne, the members of Nirvana, and pretty much all of the members of the 80's and 90's bands in the HOF voting for him, either due to history together, or due to being fans of Al. If Michael Jackson was still alive, I have no doubt he would've voted for him.

So does anyone think there's any remote chance that "Weird Al" Yankovic could be nominee on the ballot that no one sees coming? Or is it a longshot? Or is they're a better chance of John Lennon and George Harrison coming back from the dead and playing some Beatles reunion shows with Paul and Ringo?

Posted by Donnie on Friday, 07/25/2014 @ 07:41am

Donnie, it wouldn't flabbergast me if he was nominated. Still would consider him a longshot to be nominated at this time, though.

Posted by Paul in KY on Friday, 07/25/2014 @ 07:53am

Copy and paste if you think that Kate Bush should be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Spread Kate. The very first female singer-songwriter to do everything on her own. A pioneer of art rock, pop and sampling.

Posted by Lipsticky on Sunday, 08/10/2014 @ 21:24pm

Lipsticky,

If Kate Bush's name was to appear on the nomination ballot and Carly Simon's did not, I would definitely vote for Kate Bush. If the choice was between Joan Jett and Kate Bush, I would also choose Kate Bush. However, if Carly Simon's name did appear, I would have to choose Carly Simon. If Sade's name also appeared, I would have to choose Sade.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 08/10/2014 @ 22:31pm

This should've been it:

Link Wray
Hall And Oates
Nirvana
Peter Gabriel
The Zombies

Posted by Michael on Saturday, 10/13/2018 @ 18:08pm