Rush's upcoming induction will also increase the probability of Duran Duran being nominated, if not inducted next year.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 02/3/2013 @ 16:11pm

Not only does the R&RHF shun certain genres, but it has a nasty anti-80s bias.

Posted by astrodog on Tuesday, 02/5/2013 @ 03:21am

The way that I see it, Duran Duran is not just a new wave band, but also an "art rock" band. Certainly, there is a definitive Roxy Music and David Bowie influence to their sound. Since Rush was essentially an "art rock" band from 1982 until 1994, and still uses that element to a great extent in their music, their upcoming RRHOF induction should make it possible for Duran Duran to at least receive a nomination, if not a Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame induction in the not too distant future.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Friday, 02/22/2013 @ 08:20am

Now, I fully expect Duran Duran to not only be nominated for induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame, but also be inducted in 2014. What do you think?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 04/21/2013 @ 06:07am

Duran Duran would not be a bad choice for any induction, considering the way the Hall runs things. I can't see them getting in next yr., however.

Next yr. is Nirvana, & I've stated several times that I think there will be a connection to that group running through the ceremony. When they speak of 80's post-punk, I'm far more inclined to think Sonic Youth, or the Pixies.

It's not that Duran Duran doesn't fit the bill, but the Hall could fulfill something of an 80's issue here, & give it a solid theme. I don't think they'll attempt to connect any older, 60's & 70's groups w/the band, though there are acts that fit here as well. I might say Duran Duran in 2015, as Britpop is coming into focus, & if you wanted an old/new link, you'd be better served here.

Posted by Cheesecrop on Sunday, 04/21/2013 @ 06:29am

Sorry Enigmaticus, but 2014 won't be the year for Duran Duran. Nirvana is a lock, assuming the timeline presented here is accurate, and I'm fairly certain they'll go after Whitney Houston next year too. The Hall is slowly getting away from '60's in terms of inductees (though the nominees still have a number of them each year), but that's still a far cry from turning the Hall into a Lilith Fair of androgynous '80's post-punk and alternative. The Pixies are still several years out from being part of the discussion. It's actually pretty amazing that the Smiths and Sonic Youth have been Previously Considered.

Reading this thread makes me remember what a stooge Liam was. Good gravy, if he had a voice in the Hall, being British would be his #1 criterion, and a #1 hit on any Billboard chart would have been grounds for immediate disqualification. I genuinely believe if he had to listen to an entire airing of Elvis Presley's "Hound Dog", his body would tremble and shrivel, his brain would implode while his skull exploded, and the writhing mass of indiscernible carbon atoms that would otherwise comprise his remains would sublimate upon exposure to sunlight. I won't go so far as to call him pretentious, but he came off as a very joyless individual whose only source of comfort was the misery of those he despised.

But yeah, Duran Duran's commercial success will probably vault them into the Hall ahead of Sonic Youth, the Smiths, the Pixies, Joy Division, etc. The only ones of this scene who might beat them in are the Cure and Depeche Mode.

Posted by Philip on Sunday, 04/21/2013 @ 11:17am

"I genuinely believe if he had to listen to an entire airing of Elvis Presley's "Hound Dog", his body would tremble and shrivel, his brain would implode while his skull exploded, and the writhing mass of indiscernible carbon atoms that would otherwise comprise his remains would sublimate upon exposure to sunlight. I won't go so far as to call him pretentious, but he came off as a very joyless individual whose only source of comfort was the misery of those he despised."

The greatest post on FRL. Ever.

Posted by GFW on Sunday, 04/21/2013 @ 12:00pm

I think the term you British use would be "toffee-nosed" or something like that. Glad you enjoyed it. I try to get along with everyone as much as possible, but Liam seemed to thrive on hatred.

Posted by Philip on Sunday, 04/21/2013 @ 15:05pm

"toffee-nosed"

never heard that one before"

But yeah, I've always pictured Liam as a constantly miserable Liam Gallagher (an comparison he'd no doubt be disgusted by)

Posted by GFW on Sunday, 04/21/2013 @ 15:30pm

You have no idea how hilarious it is to see you say that, GFW. Seriously, when you first appeared here, I thought you were Liam under a different name, trying to be more pleasant to conceal your identity. Your tastes in music seem pretty similar, from what I can tell.

Posted by Philip on Sunday, 04/21/2013 @ 19:30pm

I'm sorry ladies and gentlemen, but I strongly diagree. The induction of Rush will change things. I fully expect Duran Duran to be inducted in their wake in 2014, along with the following acts: The Moody Blues, Carly Simon, Sade, Electric Light Orchestra, Doobie Brothers and Nirvana. Besides, Rolling Stone magazine is now conducting a weekend survey of those deserving inductions. You can vote for Duran Duran.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 04/21/2013 @ 19:43pm

It's also relatively easy to induct Duran Duran. The way that I see it, there have only been 6 members: Simon Le Bon, Nick Rhodes, John Taylor, Roger Taylor, Andy Taylor and Warren Cuccurullo.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Wednesday, 04/24/2013 @ 23:45pm

Hear hear, Philip! I'm glad I wasn't posting here when Liam and his crew of indie geeks were running roughshod* over everyone.

Count me as an advocate of Duran Duran's induction. For those who are snickering, listen to the following songs and then try and tell me that they're a "joke" or a "marketing scheme":

The Chauffeur (Simon Le Bon's orcarina solo at the end is a thing of beauty!)
Save A Prayer
Tel Aviv
Is There Something I Should Know?
New Religion
Anyone Out There

*This statement is no way an attack on the likes of New Order, The Cure, Depeche Mode, The Smiths, Joy Division, and a few of the other bands he and his compatriots namedropped. I enjoy all of the aforementioned and would very much love to see them get inducted.

Posted by Zach on Thursday, 04/25/2013 @ 01:27am

Zach, I am not familiar with Duran Duran's pre- Rio output. However, I have become quite amazed with the brilliance of "Duran Duran (aka The Wedding album)," "Astronaut" and "All You Need Is Now." I have heard that "Reportage" was also quite brilliant, perhaps Duran Duran will release it later this year.

I have yet to hear "Red Carpet Massacre," "Medazzaland," "Seven & The Ragged Tiger" and "Duran Duran (their debut album)."

Posted by Enigmaticus on Friday, 04/26/2013 @ 02:33am

The way that I see it, Duran Duran's recent win amongst the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame's snubbed bands makes them even more ubiquitous. One simply cannot deny the excellence of Duran Duran's music (at least, having four five star albums amongst their studio albums), their innovative use of video, their influence upon other artists (both present and future legends) and their longevity. Duran Duran filled the niche vacated by Roxy Music and brought it to the next level. Duran Duran is not just a "new wave" band, but also an "art rock" band. For those reasons amongst others, Duran Duran deserves to be nominated and inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame as a member of the 2014 class.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 04/28/2013 @ 11:42am

We support Duran Duran and their induction to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame! If you do too, please visit the official online effort (not afiliated with Duran Duran or the Rock Hall) to promote their induction at www.ddttrh.info. If you enter the site, there is a link to 'Sign the Petition'. All information shared is strictly confidential and will not be shared with 3rd parties. Thank you!

Posted by Kirk Harrington on Tuesday, 04/30/2013 @ 11:34am

Kirk - not the place to show that trash. We only vote YES for Tokio Hotel.

Posted by Brittany on Tuesday, 04/30/2013 @ 18:16pm

Absolutely Duran Duran should be in the R&RHOF! They were icons of the 80's, majorly influential in the growth and success of MTV, and are still actively producing albums and selling out venues including 3 nights at the Ethyl Barrymore Theater on Broadway in New York City, and Madison Square Garden also in New York City, and this has been recently! You cannot go by critic opinions or reviews, because quite frankly, they are biased, and their opinions are influenced by their own personal taste. This is the same reason I do not listen to film critics when they give a review. I see the film and make up my own mind! These are also the same critics that said The Rolling Stones and The Who were crap, so quite frankly, critical acclaim means nothing to me.

Posted by Angelia Christenbury on Tuesday, 04/30/2013 @ 18:40pm

In response to a-killa: seems you are a bit stuck in your musical background. If you did your research, you would know that Duran Duran has had many successful albums since the 80's most notibly The Wedding Album in the 90's, but also in the last 10 to 15 years as well, and are still producing sucessful new albums and selling out places like Broadway and Madison Square Garden, as well as Wembly Arena and the O2 in London with new material, not just old hits. I cannot say the same for other bands such as DM and U2. You can say DD and their misic are not that memorable an do not stand the test of time? So, why are we/you still talking about them 30 years on?

Posted by Pebbles on Tuesday, 04/30/2013 @ 21:01pm

Kirk,

I was thoroughly amazed by Duran Duran's "Diamond In The Mind" DVD.
Quite obviously, this is such a magnificent concert. I think that the 'Girl Panic' video is amazing as well; I hope that Duran Duran will release a compilation of their new videos on DVD.
In order to get Duran Duran into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame, you need the support of a larger "progressive rock" fan base. Have you considered getting the support of Rush's massive fan base as well? Now that Rush is firmly ensconced in the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame, their fan base will be looking for other "prog rock" bands to support. Since "art rock" is a branch of prog, getting a page for Duran Duran on prog archives would be another good place to start.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Wednesday, 05/1/2013 @ 09:20am

That is a good idea Enigmaticus. If you have any specific suggestions of sites I should visit or people I should get to know, please let me know. I think the RUSH fans did an amazing job supporting their guys. It would be an honor for us if many would support us. Thank you.

Posted by Kirk Harrington on Wednesday, 05/1/2013 @ 12:18pm

Yes Kirk,

Rush Is a Band is one of the major sites. If you BING Duran Duran, Rush and Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame various pages should pop up. You're very welcome, by the way.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Wednesday, 05/1/2013 @ 13:37pm

Duran Duran's song, "Girl Panic" features an amazing video starring five supermodels, playing the roles of each of the five members of Duran Duran. I suggest that you check it out; it's really quite brilliant!

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 05/5/2013 @ 05:29am

In your opinion,

Which choice best describes Duran Duran:

A) a vacuous, assembly line "pop" band?
B) a "New Romantic" band with staying power?
C) an innovative, experimental rock band, whose roots are in the "art rock" styles of Roxy Music, David Bowie and The Velvet Underground and the dance rhythms of Chic and the synthesizer pioneers, Kraftwerk.
D) an innovative experimental "art rock" band, who has been influenced by Roxy Music, David Bowie,Talking Heads, Kraftwerk, Velvet Underground, Chic, King Crimson and Pink Floyd, whose musical styles vary from "symphonic progressive rock" to funk, are pioneers in the use of arty music videos, clever and meaningful lyrics and complex
rhythms which are integrated into well crafted songs. Their distinction lies in not only the expression of the artistic ideas behind each song, but the creation of great songs which are timeless, yet imminently danceable?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 05.11.13 @ 05:02am

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 05/11/2013 @ 05:27am

Discussion: Please provide at least 5 reasons why Duran Duran deserves induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame. Thank you.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Monday, 05/13/2013 @ 09:53am

Why does Duran Duran deserve to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Wednesday, 06/5/2013 @ 23:43pm

Due to their tremendous body of work and overall consistency, Duran Duran deserves to be amongst the top 10 greatest bands of all time. In my honest opinion, they should be ranked thusly:


1. The Beatles
2. Rush
3. The Rolling Stones
4. The Who
5. The Moody Blues
6. Pink Floyd
7. Yes
8. Duran Duran
9. Chicago
10. Led Zeppelin

Posted by Enigmaticuus on Tuesday, 06/18/2013 @ 10:03am

You are an idiot if you think Duran Duran is a greater band than Led Zeppelin.

Posted by bojanthebest on Tuesday, 06/18/2013 @ 12:29pm

Music is subjective, bojan.

Posted by GFW on Tuesday, 06/18/2013 @ 12:56pm

Due to their tremendous body of work and overall consistency, Duran Duran deserves to be amongst the top 10 greatest bands of all time.

Posted by Enigmaticuus on Tuesday, 06.18.13 @ 10:03am
--------------------------------------------------
No offense here, but I don't really remember this group being so consistent. They had a nice run in the first half of the 1980's, faded a bit in the second half, & had a nice comeback album of sorts in 1993. Beyond that, it's not as though these guys have been putting up mega-selling albums ever time out.

I won't question you on your own personal top ten, cause that's what it I, your personal top ten. I will say that they do not strike me as being any more special than numerous bands whose track records are similar. They do have an argument for the Hall, but so do the others.

Posted by Cheesecrop on Wednesday, 06/19/2013 @ 05:28am

Duran Duran had an impressive string of hits. But, what else?

Posted by Kanye Yeezus West on Wednesday, 06/19/2013 @ 10:59am

^ Best user name.

Posted by GFW on Wednesday, 06/19/2013 @ 11:47am

Duran Duran has many attributes which make them worthy of induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame:

1. Innovation in the use of music videos.

2. Longevity

3. Influence upon numerous other artists.

4. The writing of consistently excellent songs and provocative lyrics.

5. The desire to seek new avenues of artistic expression.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Monday, 07/1/2013 @ 00:31am

I can agree to the last three, but the first are absolute no's for me. Music videos are not the music itself. They can give us an insight into what imagery is evoked for the artist by their song, but even then not always, since the video director has a huge hand in that too. Longevity? Then where the hell is Pat Boone? It's the same reason I opposed Madonna and currently don't support Joan Jett And The Blackhearts: image is not music. Induct them for the music and its effect, not for the image they bring to stage, because odds are, it's a facade anyway.

Except Ke$ha. She really is that trashy.

Posted by Philip on Monday, 07/1/2013 @ 11:16am

Philip,

Thank you, I do agree much of your last statement.

However, i do tend to think of longevity, not just in terms of how long a band has been around, but instead in terms of "staying power." While many of their contemporaries have ceased to exist, Duran Duran is still around, much to the chagrin of music critics, many years later. They have also remained relevant. Their most recent studio album, "All You Need Is Now" and live concert video, "A Diamond In The
Live" attest to that fact.

This really is not a surprise to me. Ever since I had watched their video's on TBS' "Night Flight" in the early 1980's, I could see potential in this group. When I had heard their first live album, "Arena," I was amazed at the number of great songs they had written, even at that time. I had seen a great deal of potential in this band, at the same time that they had been dismissed by critics as a vacuous pop group for "teeny
boppers."

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 07/7/2013 @ 14:11pm

Philip,

Thank you, I do agree with much of your previous statement.

However, I do tend to think of longevity, not just in terms of how long a band has been around, but instead in terms of "staying power." While many of their contemporaries have ceased to exist, Duran Duran is still around, much to the chagrin of music critics, more than 3 decades later. Duran Duran has also remained relevant, dealing with contemporary issues such as the encroachment of technology on our daily
lives and the absurdity of "reality television," to hame but a few. Their most recent studio album, "All You Need Is Now" and live concert recording, "A Diamond In The Mind Live" attest to that fact.

This really is not a surprise to me. Ever since I had watched their groundbreaking music videos on WTBS' "Night Flight" in the early 1980's, I could see a great deal of potential in this
group. When I had heard their first live album, "Arena," I was amazed at the number of great songs they had written, even
at that time. I had been astounded by this band, at the same time that they had been dismissed by critics as a vacuous pop group for "teeny boppers."

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 07/7/2013 @ 14:30pm

Philip,

Thank you, I do agree with much of your previous statement.

However, I do tend to think of longevity, not just in terms of how long a band has been around, but instead in terms of "staying power." While many of their contemporaries have ceased to exist, Duran Duran is still around, much to the chagrin of music critics, more than 3 decades later. Duran Duran has also remained relevant, dealing with contemporary issues such as the encroachment of technology on our daily
lives and the absurdity of "reality television," to hame but a few. Their most recent studio album, "All You Need Is Now" and live concert recording, "A Diamond In The Mind Live" attest to that fact.

This really is not a surprise to me. Ever since I had watched their groundbreaking music videos on WTBS' "Night Flight" in the early 1980's, I could see a great deal of potential in this
group. When I had heard their first live album, "Arena," I was amazed at the number of great songs they had written, even
at that time. I had been astounded by this band, at the same time that they had been dismissed by critics as a vacuous pop group for "teeny boppers."

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 07/7/2013 @ 14:51pm

Does anyone know if "Reportage" will be released later this year? I wonder if the time that Duran Duran had spent in the studio this year was to finish "Reportage?"

If so, then it could very well be Duran Duran's greatest album. I feel that "Rio" is definitely not Duran Duran's only essential album. What do you think?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Friday, 07/19/2013 @ 10:16am

I doubt it. Andy Taylor was heavily involved in the recording of 'Reportage,' and with him back on the outs, that would be awkward. Word of warning, though, these "lost" masterpieces are often disappointing when they finally do see the light of day.

'Rio' will remain their finest record, but there are other great ones. The debut is really fantastic and influential. I think that 'Notorious' was underrated.

Posted by Dezmond on Friday, 07/19/2013 @ 12:28pm

Dezmond,

I agree with you about "Rio" being Duran Duran's best album. However, I do think that a case could be made for "Duran Duran," "Duran Duran (the wedding album)," "Astronaut," "All You Need Is Now" and "A Diamond In The Mind," as well.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 08/10/2013 @ 17:46pm

Enigma, follow the link below to by blog, where I breakdown Duran Duran's discography in a Record Guide. I'd be interested in your thoughts.

http://gonnaneedabiggerboat.blogspot.com/2013/04/dez-record-guides-duran-duran.html

Posted by Dezmond on Saturday, 08/10/2013 @ 21:55pm

Dezmond,

Yes, I have definitely looked at your blog and have read a portion of it. I think that it's great! However, I am just somewhat surprised by your ratings on "Duran Duran (aka The Wedding Album)," "Astronaut," "All You Need Is Now" and the lack of a rating on "A Diamond In The Mind." I feel that those albums deserve to be rated with at least an additional star more and in my honest opinion, "A Diamond In The Mind" definitely deserves 5 stars as well. Unquestionably, I agree with your 5 star rating on "Greatest."

Posted by Enigmaticus on Tuesday, 08/13/2013 @ 09:20am

According to the VH-1 Classic schedule for tonight, the "Behind The Music Remastered" episode on Duran Duran is scheduled to air @ 10 p.m. EDT. Tomorrow night, the "Classic Albums" series episode on "Rio" is scheduled to air @ 2 a.m. EDT.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Tuesday, 08/13/2013 @ 14:46pm

Thanks. All of those records you list are good. When I rate a record, I have to look at it in its totality. When I give a *** rating, that is a solid, good record. All of those records have some outstanding songs, in fact, but they also have some filler. The rating has to reflect that. If everything was a **** or ***** rating, then the ratings become meaningless.

Posted by Dezmond on Tuesday, 08/13/2013 @ 17:54pm

Dezmond,

Do you mind if I ask what do you think about the 'Girl Panic' video and "A Diamond In The Mind" DVD?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 08/18/2013 @ 10:58am

I have just seen "A Diamond In The Mind," in it's entirety, Duran Duran's most recent live recording. The only way to describe it is c'est magnifique.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Monday, 08/19/2013 @ 10:03am

After having seen "A Diamond In The Mind" on DVD, I can definitively say that this is the second best concert video that I have seen in my life. My top choice would have to go to the upcoming "Clockwork Angel's Live" DVD by Rush, but "A Diamond In The Mind" would have second place behind it. As far as the comparison between the CD version and "Rush: Exit... Stage Left" (remastered version) on CD is concerned, it would definitely compare favorably with the present list of best progressive rock live albums, in my honest opinion.

1. Rush: Exit... Stage Left
2. Yes: Keys to Ascension 1 & 2
3. Duran Duran: A Diamond In The Mind
4. Yes: Yessongs
5. Rush: Different Stages

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 08/24/2013 @ 04:24am

No, I am just kidding about the cd version. If it had contained all of those other great songs that Duran Duran had played in concert, then it would be comparable to those other great "progressive rock" live albums.

However, the video concert does compare favorably with the best concert videos that I have seen. As far as how great the "Diamond In The Live" concert is concerned, Duran Duran has put out a stunning live masterpiece. In my honest opinion, Simon Le Bon has never sung better, his interaction with Anna Ross on stage is mesmerizing. Nick Rhodes' keyboard work really shines brightly, John Taylor's bass playing is phenomenal, the way that Roger Taylor and Dawne
Adams play off of each other is energetic and exciting, Dom Brown's guitar playing adds an element of refinement to the cohesive hole and Simon Willescroft playing the saxophone makes you wonder why Duran Duran does not have a permanent saxophonist.

I was absolutely astounded that 33 years after their founding, Duran Duran could put out such a spectacular concert. I am just hoping that there will be a new extended cd version which will include more of the songs present on the DVD. As far as how the present version compares to the other "progressive rock" greats, that would be like comparing apples to oranges.

I have to amend what I had said earlier, a bit.

After having seen "A Diamond In The Mind" on DVD, I can definitively say that this is the second best concert video that I have seen in my life. My top choice would have to go to the upcoming "Clockwork Angel's Live" DVD by Rush, but "A Diamond In The Mind" would have second place behind it. As far as the comparison between the CD version and "Rush: Exit... Stage Left" (remastered version) on CD is concerned, it would definitely compare favorably with the present list of best progressive rock live albums, in my honest opinion.

1. Rush: Exit... Stage Left
2. Yes: Keys to Ascension 1 & 2
3. Yes: Symphonic Live
4. Yes: Yessongs
5. Rush: R30
6. Rush: Different Stages Live
7. The Moody Blues: A Night At Red Rocks (extended version)
8. Pink Floyd: Pulse
9. Supertramp: Paris
10. Talking Heads: Stop Making Sense (extended version)
11. Duran Duran: A Diamond In The Mind (extended version)
12. Genesis: Second's Out
13. King Crimson: B'Boom: Live In Argentina
14. Jethro Tull: Bursting Out
15. Gentle Giant: Playing The Fool- The Official Live
16. Renaissance: Live At Carnegie Hall
17. King Biscuit Flower Hour- Greatest Hits Live
18. Renaissance: King Biscit Flower Hour
19. Kansas: Device-Voice-Drum
20. Styx: Return To Paradise

9.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 08.24.13 @ 04:24am

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 08/24/2013 @ 15:48pm

No, I am just kidding about the cd version. If it had contained all of those other great songs that Duran Duran had played in concert, then it would be comparable to those other great "progressive rock" live albums.

However, the video concert does compare favorably with the best concert videos that I have seen. As far as how great the "Diamond In The Live" concert is concerned, Duran Duran has put out a stunning live masterpiece. In my honest opinion, Simon Le Bon has never sung better, his interaction with Anna Ross on stage is mesmerizing. Nick Rhodes' keyboard work really shines brightly, John Taylor's bass playing is phenomenal, the way that Roger Taylor and Dawne
Adams play off of each other is energetic and exciting, Dom Brown's guitar playing adds an element of refinement to the cohesive hole and Simon Willescroft playing the saxophone makes you wonder why Duran Duran does not have a permanent saxophonist.

I was absolutely astounded that 33 years after their founding, Duran Duran could put out such a spectacular concert. I am just hoping that there will be a new extended cd version which will include more of the songs present on the DVD. As far as how the present version compares to the other "progressive rock" greats, that would be like comparing apples to oranges.

I have to amend what I had said earlier, a bit.

After having seen "A Diamond In The Mind" on DVD, I can definitively say that this is the second best concert video that I have seen in my life. My top choice would have to go to the upcoming "Clockwork Angel's Live" DVD by Rush, but "A Diamond In The Mind" would have second place behind it. As far as the comparison between the CD version and "Rush: Exit... Stage Left" (remastered version) on CD is concerned, it would definitely compare favorably with the present list of best progressive rock live albums, in my honest opinion.

1. Rush: Exit... Stage Left
2. Yes: Keys to Ascension 1 & 2
3. Yes: Symphonic Live
4. Yes: Yessongs
5. Rush: R30
6. Rush: Different Stages Live
7. The Moody Blues: A Night At Red Rocks (extended version)
8. Pink Floyd: Pulse
9. Supertramp: Paris
10. Talking Heads: Stop Making Sense (extended version)
11. Duran Duran: A Diamond In The Mind (extended version)
12. Genesis: Second's Out
13. King Crimson: B'Boom: Live In Argentina
14. Jethro Tull: Bursting Out
15. Gentle Giant: Playing The Fool- The Official Live
16. Renaissance: Live At Carnegie Hall
17. King Biscuit Flower Hour- Greatest Hits Live
18. Renaissance: King Biscuit Flower Hour
19. Kansas: Device-Voice-Drum
20. Styx: Return To Paradise

The great thing about Duran Duran is that they refuse to rest on their laurels. With their most recent works: Simon. Nick, John and Roger have proven that in every sense, they are the natural successors to the Roxy Music legacy. At the present time, they have proven beyond a shadow of a doubt that they are very worthy of immediate induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame.


Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 08.24.13 @ 04:24am

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 08/24/2013 @ 16:56pm

Never seen someone call Talking Heads prog before...

Posted by GFW on Saturday, 08/24/2013 @ 17:18pm

GFW,

Yes, Talking Heads are considered to be an "art rock" group by various sources and according to progarchives, they are considered to be "prog related."

Talking Heads had an influence upon King Crimson and Rush. The members of Rush have listened to the music of Talking Heads for years.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 08/25/2013 @ 15:01pm

I had just heard what many consider to be Duran Duran's worst album, "Thank You." I had decided to give it a spin and not expecting to encounter anything remarkable, I was ultimately surprised. In my honest opinion, the members of Duran Duran did a very fine job on covering those other artists. I have a lot of Duran Duran albums to listen to over the coming weeks, my recent purchases include the following: "Notorious," "Red Carpet Massacre," "Duran Duran (1981)" and "Medazzaland." I am still contemplating the purchases of "Big Thing," "Pop Trash" and "Liberty."

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 09/7/2013 @ 16:23pm

I had created this webpage 15 years ago:

http://reocities.com/SunsetStrip/Lounge/1254/duran.htm

During that time, I had only been familiar with a few of their albums: "Rio," "Arena," "Decade" and "Greatest."

If I had to rate them now, the following would receive 5 stars:

Rio *****
Duran Duran (1993) *****
Astronaut *****
All You Need Is Now *****
A Diamond In The Mind *****

I have yet to hear the following albums:

Duran Duran (1981)
Seven And The Ragged Tiger
Notorious
Medazzaland
Red Carpet Massacre

I had just heard what many consider to be Duran Duran's worst album, "Thank You." I had decided to give it a spin and not expecting to encounter anything remarkable, I was ultimately surprised. In my honest opinion, the members of Duran Duran did a very fine job of covering those other artists. I would give "Thank You A Rating " of between *** 1/2
and ****.

I have a lot of Duran Duran albums to listen to over the coming weeks, my recent purchases include the following: "Seven And The Ragged Tiger," "Notorious," "Red Carpet Massacre," "Duran Duran (1981)" and "Medazzaland." If "Thank You" is indicative of the quality of Duran Duran's albums then I will really look forward to hearing those other albums. I am still contemplating the purchases of "Big Thing," "Pop Trash" and "Liberty."
Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 09.7.13 @ 16:23pm

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 09/7/2013 @ 16:40pm

Unfortunately, I have not been able to order the extended version of "Thank You," but I have ordered "Liberty." Before I evaluate the rest of Duran Duran's recordings, I plan on picking up "Big Thing" and "Pop Trash."

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 09/8/2013 @ 07:18am

For those of you who are interested, VH1 Classic has scheduled to air the "Behind The Music Remastered: Duran Duran" episode tomorrow morning at 11:00 a.m. E.D.T.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Tuesday, 09/10/2013 @ 23:52pm

I have just purchased a copy of "Big Thing," "Liberty" and "Pop Trash." a critique of those albums will be forthcoming.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Thursday, 09/12/2013 @ 01:34am

Once again, the "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode on Duran Duran airs @ 6 p.m. Thursday October 10, 2013. I wonder if this is indicative of something noteworthy.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 10/6/2013 @ 23:42pm

What else can I say about Duran Duran that has not been said before?

When you can influence the greatest progressive rock band of all time, or arguably perhaps even the greatest rock band of all time: Rush; that really has to count for something.

"A Diamond In The Mind" is in my honest opinion, the second best "art rock" concert, of all time, thus far released. The greatest "art rock" concert is "Clockwork Angels Tour," which is scheduled to be released on November 19, 2013.

To put it in a nutshell, Duran Duran is more than just a great pop rock band. Their popularity is starting to reach critical mass. Duran Duran has proven over the course of their 35 year existence, that they deserve to be acknowledged as one of the greatest "art rock" bands of all time and as such, deserve immediate induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Friday, 10/11/2013 @ 15:29pm

I like Duran Duran and I'd be open to their induction. I tend to be more populist than the music snobs running the RnRHOF. They had plenty of hits and had a big influence on the way music was visually presented throughout the 80's.

Duran Duran is not and never were a progressive rock band or an art rock band, they are a pop rock band. I've never heard or read any member of Rush claiming them as a musical influence. Alex's 1980's hair-do and Miami Vice jacket was possibly influenced by Simon Lebon, but that's it. Rush has stated that the early-80's new wave influenced them, but then they mention The Police and U2, not Duran Duran. Duran Duran wasn't new wave either. They were a very good 80's pop band, and there's nothing wrong with that.

Posted by Classic Rock on Friday, 10/11/2013 @ 19:57pm

Classic Rock,

Jerry Lucky had referred to Duran Duran as an "assembly line" pop band. However, the band and their associates tend to think of Duran Duran differently:

On "Classic Albums: Duran Duran: Rio," Duran Duran is referred to as a rock band by former and present drummer Roger Taylor. Additionally on the "Classic Albums: Rio" bonus material chapter titled 'Selling Duran Duran to America,' their
Former A & R representative refers to Duran Duran as an "art rock" band. Nick Rhodes has referred to Duran Duran as a multi-media corporation. John Taylor had attended art school prior to co-founding Duran Duran; he has referred to Duran Duran as being an "art school" band.

On "A Diamond In The Mind," Duran Duran's live DVD from the tour in support of their album, "All You Need Is Now," Nick Rhodes refers to Duran Duran as a project. The only individual from Duran Duran's camp that I remember, who had referred to Duran Duran as being a "pop band" was former guitarist, Andy Taylor.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Monday, 10/14/2013 @ 02:19am

Classic rock,

I stand corrected.

The title of that chapter is actually "How To Make It In The USA." and Dave Ambrose, the A & R representative refers to Duran Duran as "... Duran Duran were experimenting, i.e. with a lot of art rock"

Posted by Enigmaticus on Monday, 10/14/2013 @ 10:25am

On a brighter note, Happy Birthday to Simon Le Bon. Thank you for all the great songs which he has co-written over the past 33 years.

I had been compelled to watch the DVD of "A Diamond In The Mind" today, in celebration of Simon's birthday. However, the news of Lou Reed's passing has certainly put an unfortunate damper on things, :-(

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 10/27/2013 @ 15:05pm

Today was a bittersweet day. For one thing, it was Simon Le Bon's 55th birthday, but it was also the day that Lou Reed, one of Duran Duran's musical influences had passed away. In honor of the late Lou Reed, I had listened to 'Perfect Day.'

I was also compelled to watch portions of the "A Diamond In The Mind" dvd, in honor of Simon's 55th birthday.

Thank you, Simon Le Bon for 33 years of great music and great lyrics.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Monday, 10/28/2013 @ 03:08am

If you had told me 30 years ago that Duran Duran would release a live concert DVD that would rival the best of Rush's
concert videos, I may have been somewhat skeptical.

Fortunately, it is true. "A Diamond In The Mind" had thoroughly convinced me that Duran Duran is one of the greatest rock bands of all time, especially in a live setting.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 11/2/2013 @ 05:21am

Once again, VH1 Classic is scheduled to air the "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode on Duran Duran on Wednesday November 13, 2013 @11 a.m. EST.

Of course, Duran Duran detractors would still like to think of Duran Duran as just a generic "pop band," but what is truly remarkable is how great the band has become in recent years. While the rest of us were sleeping, Duran Duran had continued to improve and had released several masterpieces.

I cannot heap enough praise on "A Diamond In The Mind." Now that their "Unstaged" documentary by David Lynch, is being shown at more artsy venues, such as the Museum Of Modern Art in New York City, perhaps the critics will finally come around and nominate Duran Duran for induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame, in 2015.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 11/9/2013 @ 04:07am

Once again, VH1 Classic is scheduled to air the "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode on Duran Duran on Wednesday November 13, 2013 @11 a.m. EST.

Of course, Duran Duran detractors would still like to think of Duran Duran as being just a generic "pop band," but what is truly remarkable is how great the band has become in recent
years.

While the rest of us were sleeping, Duran Duran hadcontinued to improve and had released several masterpieces.

I cannot heap enough praise on "A Diamond In The Mind." Now that their "Unstaged" documentary by David Lynch, is being shown at more artsy venues, such as the Museum Of Modern Art in New York City, perhaps the critics will finally come around and nominate Duran Duran for induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame, in 2015.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 11/9/2013 @ 04:21am

Of course, Duran Duran's detractors would have liked to consider Duran Duran to be just a generic "pop band." What is truly remarkable however, is just how great of a band, Duran Duran has become in recent years.

While the rest of us were sleeping, Duran Duran had continued to improve and in the process, had released several great recordings.

I really cannot heap enough praise upon "A Diamond In The Mind," if this magnificent concert is truly indicative of the quality of Duran Duran's live performances, then I will definitely consider attending their concerts in the future.

In the meantime, Duran Duran may be releasing a new studio album either later this year, or early next year. Their most recent studio offering, "All You Need Is Now" was certainly a triumphant return to form.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 11/9/2013 @ 05:09am

I have been asked many times, "What is the connection between Duran Duran and Rush?"

For one thing, I can say that many Rush fans also happen to like the music of Duran Duran, or vice versa, as evinced by this link:

http://www.cduniverse.com/productinfo.asp?pid=8747280&style=movie

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 11/9/2013 @ 13:06pm

Once again, the "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode on Duran Duran is airing @ 11 a.m. E.S.T. on VH1 Classic on Wednesday November 13, 2013.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Monday, 11/11/2013 @ 21:57pm

I am definitely looking forward to the release of the "Unstaged" Duran Duran concert recorded at the Mayan theater in Los Angeles, California and the release of another video compilation on DVD. I would really like to have a permanent version of 'Girl Panic,' and other videos, in addition to "Behind The Music Remastered: Duran Duran" to watch at my leisure.

Until then, I will keep watching "A Diamond In The Mind" on DVD and awaiting another re- airing of "Behind The Music Remastered: Duran Duran" which has been airing approximately once a month with astonishing regularity.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Friday, 11/15/2013 @ 03:44am

Based upon their overall excellence, I will be extremely disappointed if Duran Duran does not get a nomination for induction next year. Who would induct them: Moby, Franz Ferdinand, Billy Corgan, Blondie, Rush?

Of course, if The Moody Blues, Sade, Carly Simon, The Doobie Brothers and Foreigner get a nomination also, all will be right in the world.

Even though the members of Rush probably love Duran Duran, it is more likely that they would induct The Moody Blues, or King Crimson. Is it not?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Friday, 11/15/2013 @ 09:00am

Today, I had the opportunity to watch the Q & A session with Duran Duran after the premiere of the Duran Duran: Unstaged film directed by David Lynch.

What did I glean from this particular event:

Duran Duran still consider themselves to be an "art school" band. In many cases, art school bands are also "art rock" bands.

Based upon this statement, Duran Duran is the 9th most successful "art rock" album band:

1. Pink Floyd
2. Chicago
3. Rush
4. Genesis
5. Styx
6. Kansas
7. Yes
8. Electric Light Orchestra
9. Duran Duran
10. Jethro Tull

Of course, I find it curious that Duran Duran has sold 12 million albums in the U.S., yet the BBC states that they have sold over 100 million albums worldwide. How is this possible?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 11/16/2013 @ 04:31am

When discussing reasons for why Duran Duran has deserved immediate induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame, 5 words come to mind: "A Diamond In The Mind."

This concert video extravaganza is extraordinary. The only way that it quite possibly could have been better is with the accompaniment of a string section.

The David Lynch "Duran Duran: Unmasked" film really does sound quite intriguing. Has anyone seen it, who might wish to comment upon it?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Tuesday, 11/19/2013 @ 08:43am

I had to buy a universal remote, in order to start watching my collection of BluRay discs. I was watching part of "A Diamond In The Mind" tonight on my HDTV. I am planning on seeing more of this spectacular concert tomorrow night, and perhaps during the upcoming weekend.

If a string section can thoroughly enhance Duran Duran's songs, can you imagine what Duran Duran would sound like with the accompaniment of a full symphony orchestra?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Wednesday, 11/20/2013 @ 02:52am

The question remains whether one would regard Duran Duran as an "art rock" band, a "pop" band, or an "art pop" band?

Back in 1997, I had gone out on a limb to say basically that they were a hybrid of the two styles:

http://reocities.com/SunsetStrip/Lounge/1254/duran.htm

So, once again, I pose the question:

In your opinion,

Which choice best describes Duran Duran:

A) a vacuous, assembly line "pop" band?
B) a "New Romantic" band with staying power?
C) an innovative, experimental rock band, whose roots are in the "art rock" styles of Roxy Music, David Bowie and The Velvet Underground and the dance rhythms of Chic and the synthesizer pioneers, Kraftwerk.
D) an innovative experimental "art rock" band, who has been influenced by Roxy Music, David Bowie,Talking Heads, Kraftwerk, Velvet Underground, Chic, King Crimson and Pink Floyd, whose musical styles vary from "symphonic progressive rock" to funk, are pioneers in the use of arty music videos, clever and meaningful lyrics and complex
rhythms which are integrated into well crafted songs. Their distinction lies in not only the expression of the artistic ideas behind each song, but the creation of great songs which are timeless, yet imminently danceable?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 05.11.13 @ 05:02am

Posted by Enigmaticus on Thursday, 11/28/2013 @ 11:12am

In the "A Diamond In The Mind" documentary, Nick Rhodes describes Duran Duran as an "art school" band.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Thursday, 11/28/2013 @ 11:18am

Meaning that several members attended art school through the British public school system. Members of The Kinks, Stones and Who also attended art schools in Britain. It does not refer to a "school" or "genre" of music.

Posted by Dezmond on Thursday, 11/28/2013 @ 11:34am

Here is some food for thought:

While the rest of us were sleeping, Duran Duran was quickly becoming a formidable group of outstanding musicians. Their artistic vision would also include the use of highly innovative music videos. One of their most recent videos, "Girl Panic" transcends the genre. Their most recent live concert, "A Diamond In The Mind: Live 2011" is another spectacularly artistic triumph.

I am really starting to wonder, what will it take for them to finally receive a nomination?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Friday, 11/29/2013 @ 08:46am

Here is some food for thought:

While the rest of us were sleeping, Duran Duran was quickly becoming a formidable group of outstanding musicians. Their artistic vision would also include the use of highly innovative music videos. One of their most recent videos, "Girl Panic" transcends the genre. Their most recent live concert, "A Diamond In The Mind: Live 2011" is another artistically spectacular triumph.

I am really starting to wonder, what will it take for Duran Duran to finally receive a nomination?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Friday, 11.29.13 @ 08:46am

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 11/30/2013 @ 03:42am

Duran Duran obviously has more critical respect now, but I think they need Kraftwerk and Depeche Mode inducted first, and it seems like synthpop is getting in really slowly just like prog-rock did so I wouldn't expect those two to get in until about five years from now, especially with the American alternative giants already eligible and/or becoming eligible soon.

Posted by Sean on Saturday, 11/30/2013 @ 12:59pm

Sean,

According to Roger Taylor, Duran Duran is not a "synth pop" band; they consider themselves to be a rock band with synthesizers instead.

I have been watching several of the documentaries about Duran Duran and the only one that appears to say that they are a "pop band" is the "Behind The Music: Remastered " on Duran Duran.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 12/1/2013 @ 13:05pm

Sean,

According to Roger Taylor, drummer for Duran Duran, Duran Duran is not a "synth pop" band; they came before the advent of the "synth pop" bands. Duran Duran consider themselves to be a rock band with synthesizers, instead.

I have been watching several of the documentaries about Duran Duran and the only one that appears to say that they are a "pop band" is the "Behind The Music: Remastered" on
Duran Duran.

On the "A Diamond In The Mind" DVD and BluRay, Nick Rhodes refers to Duran Duran as an "art school" band as a "project."

On "Classic Albums: Rio," their former A & R representative refers to Duran Duran as experimenting with a lot of i.e. "art rock."

The way that I see it, if your primary influences are such artists as: The Velvet Underground, David Bowie and Roxy Music, then you are an "art rock" band. Since "art rock" is a subcategory of "progressive rock," by extension you are a "prog rock" band.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 12/1/2013 @ 13:19pm

Enig, I love Duran Duran. But they are not a prog rock band.

Posted by Dezmond on Sunday, 12/1/2013 @ 20:26pm

Does anyone here agree with Enig that Duran Duran is an art rock or prog rock band? I just don't hear it in their music. Even if every member and manager associated with the band said that they consider themselves an art rock band, if it's not in the music, then how can it be?
This aside, looking at their discography tonight I was reminded of some really good songs that they put out:
Girls on Film, Hungry Like the Wolf, Save a Prayer, Rio, Is There Something I Should Know, Union of the Snake, New Moon on Monday, and The Reflex. All bring back fond memories of watching MTV almost 24/7 in the early/mid 80's.

Posted by Classic Rock on Sunday, 12/1/2013 @ 21:43pm

Classic Rock,

I could go into the long grandiose definition of progressive rock, if you really want me to so that you can decide for yourself whether or not Duran Duran is an "art rock," or "progressive rock" band. Or better yet, I could suggest that you watch "A Diamond In The Mind," on either BluRay, or DVD in it's entirety, or listen to "All You Need Is Now." I think the problem with most of the general populace regarding Duran Duran stems from their familiarity with their artsy videos primarily. They forget that there is great music backing those videos up.

Simon Le Bon has a magnificent voice and addition to being the primary lyricist, works with Nick Rhodes and the other members in the creation of those great songs. John Taylor had recently won a poll naming him best bassist. Roger Taylor is a very good drummer and Dom Brown is one heck of a guitarist, as were former members Andy Taylor and Warren Cuccurullo.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Monday, 12/2/2013 @ 08:12am

Classic Rock,

Here is a link to the definition of "progressive rock." If I were to designate the music of Duran Duran with a sub genre, I would identify them as "Crossover Prog."

http://www.progarchives.com/Progressive-rock.asp#definition

Posted by Enigmaticus on Monday, 12/2/2013 @ 08:38am

I will let you decide, whether you think Duran Duran is prog, or not, depending upon the "Cross Over Prog," designation.

http://www.progarchives.com/subgenre.asp?style=3

Posted by Enigmaticus on Monday, 12/2/2013 @ 08:44am

With the possible exceptions of Peter Gabriel and Hall & Oates, the "E" Street Band and maybe Nirvana, the remaining 2014 inductees are abysmal. Unfortunately, 2014 is not a year for inducting icons, like 2013 was.

In 2013, one could argue that 8 icons were inducted and the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame should be praised for their choices: Heart, Donna Summer, Rush, Albert King, Randy Newman and Public Enemy were excellent choices, as were non-performers and extraordinary producers: Quincy Jones and Lou Adler, both of whom had contributed greatly by producing several iconic artists' works over the years.

In my honest opinion, both the nomination committee and the voters should take the time to watch, "A Diamond In The
Mind" and make the determination for themselves, whether or not Duran Duran deserves to be inducted. As far as I am concerned, the answer is a resounding, 'Yes!'

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

I had to buy a universal remote, in order to start watching my collection of BluRay discs. I was watching part of "A Diamond In The Mind" tonight on my HDTV. I am planning on watching more of this spectacular concert again tomorrow night, and perhaps during the upcoming weekend.

If a string section can thoroughly enhance Duran Duran's songs, can you imagine what Duran Duran would sound like with the accompaniment of a full symphony orchestra?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Wednesday, 11.20.13 @ 02:52am

Posted by Enigmaticus on Friday, 12/27/2013 @ 03:25am

Once again, the "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode on Duran Duran is airing @ 11 a.m. E.S.T. on VH1 Classic on Wednesday January 8, 2014.

Please note: The last time that I had written this, that particular episode had aired on Wednesday morning also.

Once again, the "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode on Duran Duran is airing @ 11 a.m. E.S.T. on VH1 Classic on Wednesday November 13, 2013.

Once again, this is airing on a Wednesday morning. I wonder why it cannot air on a Saturday night, instead?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Friday, 01/3/2014 @ 08:30am

Bubble gum music.

Posted by D. Stroy on Saturday, 01/18/2014 @ 09:37am

First of all, please let me say that I was utterly amazed to see so many individuals pick "Avalon" by Roxy Music, as one of their favorite "art rock" recordings. In my honest opinion, "Avalon" is Roxy Music's best album.

In my honest opinion, Duran Duran had started where Roxy Music had left off. Over the next several weeks, I am planning on immersing myself in more Duran Duran recordings.

Is Duran Duran "bubblegum music?" In my opinion, the answer is a resounding- No!

Posted by Enigmaticus on Wednesday, 01/22/2014 @ 08:24am

Now that KISS is in the RRHOF,Duran Duran is one of the most deserving bands outside the RRHOF. They have longevity 35+ years,sold millions of CD's,and dominated the 80's with hit Albums like Rio & 7 & the Ragged Tiger.

Duran Duran has a great amount of innovation.They were the first band to realize the importance of songs & music videos creating artistic videos instead of just watching a band play. MTV & Duran Duran success goes hand in hand so it is difficult who is more responsible.Nick's use of the synthesizer was innovative for its time as well.

Think of all the great Duran Duran hits:Planet Earth,Hungry (Likr ) Like The Wolf,Save A Prayer,Wild Boys,Rio,Notorious,Ordinary World,etc.You could go on for another 2 paragraphs.

I think the best reason for Duran Duran's inclusion is that the the groups Duran Duran fought with popularity & in the top of the 80's Charts are all in the RRHOF. MJ,Madonna,Prince,U2,Bruce Springsteen,etc are already in.Duran Duran stood head to head with these musical giants. They deserve RRHOF induction in
(2025 )2015. KING

Posted by KING on Friday, 01/24/2014 @ 15:53pm

I could not agree more, KING.

Duran Duran deserves immediate induction into the Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Friday, 01/24/2014 @ 20:58pm

Duran Duran is a magnificent group. They should be elected 2014-2015. I can't think of a more deserving group. They have endured the slings & arrows of critics & outlasted & outlived most of them.

Almost 40 yrs and DD still going strong. It all starts upfront with Simon LeBon. I can't think of a group in the RRHOF that didn't have a dynamic frontman who had a good singing voice. A bad singer brings down even the best of groups. I remember when Iron Maiden replaced their singer with Bruce Dickinson & just took off.

Few groups have more memorable songs as DD. Rio,Planet Earth,Hungry Like The Wolf,Serious,Save A Prayer,Come Undone, Ordinary World...Just endless.

I talked about their innovation & influence on a previous post. DD has survived the test of time & continues to churn out good music. DD RRHOF in 2015!!! KING

Posted by KING on Friday, 02/21/2014 @ 02:57am

Once again, the "Behind The Music Remastered: Duran Duran" is scheduled to air on VH1 Classic @ 1 p.m. E.S.T. on February 23, 2014.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 02/23/2014 @ 01:52am

Once again, the "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode on Duran Duran is scheduled to air on VH-1 Classic at 11 a.m. E.D.T. on April 2, 2014.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Monday, 03/31/2014 @ 02:20am

Duran Duran should be in RRHOF. Almost 40 years later & still going strong. They split their group into 2 side projects Arcadia & Power Station. Both had success. How many groups have done that?

No question Duran Duran should be in RRHOF. They have fulfilled the RRHOF criteria better than most. Elect Duran Duran 2015 RRHOF. KING

Posted by KING on Friday, 04/25/2014 @ 21:38pm

KING,

I could not agree more.

I also fully support the induction of Duran Duran into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame in 2015.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 05/4/2014 @ 20:24pm

One individual on a Duran Duran fan web site had written, "Once Rush is inducted, Duran Duran should be next." I could not agree more with that particular statement.

Here is some food for thought:

While the rest of us were sleeping, Duran Duran was quickly becoming a formidable group of outstanding musicians. Their artistic vision would also include the use of highly innovative music videos. One of their most recent videos, "Girl Panic" transcends the genre. Their most recent live concert, "A Diamond In The Mind: Live 2011" is another artistically spectacular triumph.

I am really starting to wonder, what will it take for Duran Duran to finally receive a nomination?

The question remains whether one would regard Duran Duran as an "art rock" band, a "pop" band, or an "art pop" band?

Back in 1997, I had gone out on a limb to say basically that they were a hybrid of the two styles:

http://reocities.com/SunsetStrip/Lounge/1254/duran.htm

So, once again, I pose the question:

In your opinion,

Which choice best describes Duran Duran:

A) a vacuous, assembly line "pop" band?
B) a "New Romantic" band with staying power?
C) an innovative, experimental rock band, whose roots are in the "art rock" styles of Roxy Music, David Bowie and The Velvet Underground and the dance rhythms of Chic and the synthesizer pioneers, Kraftwerk.
D) an innovative experimental "art rock" band, who has been influenced by Roxy Music, David Bowie,Talking Heads, Kraftwerk, Velvet Underground, Chic, King Crimson and Pink Floyd, whose musical styles vary from "symphonic progressive rock" to funk, are pioneers in the use of arty music videos, clever and meaningful lyrics and complex
rhythms which are integrated into well crafted songs. Their distinction lies in not only the expression of the artistic ideas behind each song, but the creation of great songs which are timeless, yet imminently danceable?

They have a track record of excellence. They have received numerous awards from other organizations. They have displayed innovation in their songs, videos and concert performances. Isn't about time for the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame committee to finally nominate and induct Duran Duran?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 05/11/2014 @ 14:26pm

Duran Duran should have been in Rock n Roll Hall of Fame 5 years ago. They are high on Innovation & Influence 2 criteria the Committee says important.

Duran Duran has done everything a Classic band should. 1. Sold millions of CD's 2. Sell out concerts in an hour 3. Many Top 40 hits 4.Longevity nearly 40 years. 5. Continued music & video excellence 6.Popularity of Simon & the gang & each fan has its FAV member 7.Innovation & Influence 8. Perpetuation of Rock n Roll through various styles of music

Stand with Enigmaticus Duran Duran should be in RRHOF 2015 & one of the best bands not inducted yet. KING

Posted by KING on Saturday, 05/24/2014 @ 13:36pm

I think Enigmaticus has stated a convincing argument as Duran Duran Hall Of Fame & 1 of the Top 10 bands of all time. My older sister was a Duran Duran fanatic in mid 80's in their prime years. She would put Hungry Like The Wolf & Rio on the record player & later on cassette tapes and CD's.

Soon, you can't admit that your humming along & singing but you are. Sister catches you & you must admit Duran Duran has very good songs.The Duran Duran are one of the few groups that make moving music. They evoke several emotions such as sadness or happiness as Simon can sing like no other . I even like the 90's stuff like Playing With Uranium. Ordinary World those songs too.

Would love to see Def Leppard & Duran Duran be elected in 2015 as they are 2 of my FAV bands since childhood & are more than deserving. KING

Posted by KING on Saturday, 05/24/2014 @ 13:59pm

As most of you, are probably already familiar from my previous posts, I am still strongly supportive of Duran Duran's induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame. I know that they have their detractors, but seriously, other than U2, can you think of a more important artist, who was popular, from that decade, who has not been enshrined in the Hall Of Fame? When I had heard that Rush was being inducted, although I had predicted that 6 months earlier, I had thought that Duran Duran would be next. Unfortunately, that did not occur. But next year may be a different situation, it will be also be mark more than 8 years, since Duran Duran has been eligible. It is a huge travesty that Duran Duran has not already been nominated. But please remember that Rush had to wait nearly 15 years since they had been eligible.

In the meantime, I would really like to see a new compilation of Duran Duran's videos, on dvd and BluRay, especially 'Girl Panic.' In my honest opinion, this is their all-time best video.

The way that I see it, Duran Duran is not just a new wave band, but also an "art rock" band. Certainly, there is a definitive Roxy Music and David Bowie influence to their sound. Since Rush was essentially an "art rock" band from 1982 until 1996 and still uses that element to a great extent in their music, their upcoming RRHOF induction should make it possible for Duran Duran to at least receive a nomination, if not a Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame induction in the not too distant future.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Friday, 02.22.13 @ 08:20am

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 06/1/2014 @ 13:17pm

As most of you, are probably already familiar from my previous posts, I am still strongly supportive of Duran Duran's induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame. I know that they have their detractors, but seriously, other than U2, can you think of a more important artist, who was popular, from that decade, who has not been enshrined in the Hall Of Fame? When I had heard that Rush was being inducted, although I had predicted that 6 months earlier, I had thought that Duran Duran would be next. Unfortunately, that did not occur. But next year may be a different situation, it will be also mark more than 8 years, since Duran Duran had first become eligible. It is a huge travesty that Duran Duran has not already been nominated. But please remember that Rush had to wait nearly 15 years after they had first been eligible.

In the meantime, I would really like to see a new compilation
of Duran Duran's videos, on dvd and BluRay, especially 'Girl
Panic.' In my honest opinion, this is their all-time best video.

The way that I see it, Duran Duran is not just a new wave band, but also an "art rock" band. Certainly, there is a definitive Roxy Music and David Bowie influence to their sound. Since Rush was essentially an "art rock" band from 1982 until 1996 and still uses that element to a great extent in their music, their upcoming RRHOF induction should make it possible for Duran Duran to at least receive a nomination, if not a Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame induction in the not too distant future.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Friday, 02.22.13 @ 08:20am

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 06/1/2014 @ 13:30pm

Once again, the "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode on Duran Duran, is scheduled to air on VH-1 Classic @ 11 a.m. E.D.T. on Wednesday June 11, 2014.

Here is some food for thought:

While the rest of us were sleeping, Duran Duran was quickly becoming a formidable group of outstanding musicians. Their artistic vision would also include the use of highly innovative music videos. One of their most recent videos, "Girl Panic" transcends the genre. Their most recent live concert, "A Diamond In The Mind: Live 2011" is another spectacularly artistic triumph.

I am really starting to wonder, what will it take for Duran Duran to finally receive a nomination? Their induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame is now long overdue.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Friday, 06/6/2014 @ 09:40am

Once again, the "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode on Duran Duran, is scheduled to air on VH-1 Classic @ 11 a.m. E.D.T. on Wednesday June 11, 2014.

Here is some food for thought:

While the rest of us were sleeping, Duran Duran was quickly becoming a formidable group of outstanding musicians. Their artistic vision would also include the use of highly innovative music videos. One of their most recent videos, "Girl Panic" transcends the genre. Their most recent live concert, "A Diamond In The Mind: Live 2011" is another spectacularly artistic triumph.

I am really starting to wonder, what will it take for Duran Duran to finally receive a nomination? Their induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame is now long overdue. By the way, the three members of Rush are now receiving Honorary Doctorates; Nick Rhodes already has one. Will Simon Le Bon be next?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Friday, 06.6.14 @ 09:40am

Posted by Enigmaticus on Monday, 06/9/2014 @ 10:04am

I am really hoping that Duran Duran will release a BluRay version of their videos, including the video from 'Girl Panic,' which is one of their best. I am eagerly awaiting the release of their next studio album. I also wish that they would release a remastered, expanded version of "A Diamond In The Mind" on cd; don't you?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Wednesday, 06/11/2014 @ 15:19pm

I was listening to "Greatest" last night, and I was thinking, "Why isn't Duran Duran in the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame?"

Does Duran Duran deserve immediate induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame? Is the group innovative? Is Duran Duran still influential? Has Duran Duran's music aged well and do their songs still resonate? Is Duran Duran still releasing new and exciting music?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Thursday, 06/19/2014 @ 09:53am

Duran Duran should be in the RRHOF 2015 & there will be questions if they don't. Influence YES Innovative YES Longevity YES Hits-Albums sales YES Perpetuating Rock Music YES. Simon & the guys should be elected 2015. KING

Posted by KING on Saturday, 06/21/2014 @ 03:25am

Thank you, KING

Now I will answer those questions:

I was listening to "Greatest" last night, and I was thinking, "Why isn't Duran Duran in the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame?"

Does Duran Duran deserve immediate induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame? Yes, unlike most of their contemporaries, Duran Duran is still going strong.

Is the group innovative? Yes absolutely, from the use of artistic music videos to the very way that the songs are put together, Duran Duran has been pushing the envelope of their creativity.

Is Duran Duran still influential? Yes, even older progressive rock groups had taken a clue from the "Fab 5."

Has Duran Duran's music aged well and do their songs still resonate? Yes, their songs do not sound dated and still provide inspiration for present and future generations of musicians and aficionados of their music.

Is Duran Duran still releasing new and exciting music? Yes, not consent to rest on their laurels, Duran Duran is always searching for new sounds and the creation of great songs.

Does Duran Duran deserve immediate induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame?

Is Simon Le Bon a great lyricist, vocalist and co-songwriter?

Is Nick Rhodes a great keyboardist, producer and co-songwriter?

Is John Taylor a great bassist and co-songwriter?

What about Roger Taylor? Andy Taylor? Warren Cuccurullo? Dom Brown?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 06/22/2014 @ 16:44pm

Duran Duran will definitely become inductees in the next few years; it's more of a matter when they will finally appear on a nomination ballot because I think it would get inducted on their first appearance. They played a major role in the early years of MTV and they proved to be consistently popular over the years. Their blend do new wave and pop music made them one of the definitive 1980s acts. With the Rock Hall becoming more populist recently (inducting the likes of Hall & Oates and Linda Ronstadt), Duran Duran has a really good chance of getting inducted very soon; they just need some support from not only the fans but some committee members as well.

Posted by Nick on Sunday, 06/22/2014 @ 17:14pm

Duran Duran will definitely become inductees in the next few years; it's more of a matter when they will finally appear on a nomination ballot because I think it would get inducted on their first appearance. They played a major role in the early years of MTV and they proved to be consistently popular over the years. Their blend do new wave and pop music made them one of the definitive 1980s acts. With the Rock Hall becoming more populist recently (inducting the likes of Hall & Oates and Linda Ronstadt), Duran Duran has a really good chance of getting inducted very soon; they just need some support from not only the fans but some committee members as well.

Posted by Nick on Sunday, 06/22/2014 @ 17:15pm

Proud to see Duran Duran & music fans strongly sounding off for DD RRHOF induction. Great band & innovator in music video. You see all of these HOF criteria & check them off 1 by 1. Thanks to Enigmaticus & others for pushing for Duran Duran induction.

Planet Earth,Río,Union Of The Snake,Hungry Like The Wolf, Serious,Too Much Information,Ordinary World, etc. KING

Posted by KING on Monday, 06/30/2014 @ 03:07am

It's pretty hard to argue against it. Duran Duran's sound is distinctly 80's, and kind of defines music from that era. Not to mention that they also have multiple hits. Kids today might not get it, but if we're looking at bands that defined generations, Duran Duran definitely defined the 80's.

Posted by NixtonV on Friday, 07/4/2014 @ 16:22pm

Once again, the "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode on Duran Duran, is scheduled to air on VH-1 Classic @ 5 p.m. on Sunday July 20, 2014.

Here is some food for thought:

While the rest of us were sleeping, Duran Duran was quickly becoming a formidable group of outstanding musicians. Their artistic vision would also include the use of highly innovative music videos. One of their most recent videos, "Girl Panic" transcends the genre. Their most recent live concert, "A Diamond In The Mind: Live 2011" is another spectacularly artistic triumph.

I am really starting to wonder, what will it take for Duran Duran to finally receive a nomination? Their induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame is now long overdue (8 years overdue, to be exact).

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 07/13/2014 @ 12:46pm

This is just a reminder:

Once again, the "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode on Duran Duran, is scheduled to air on VH-1 Classic @ 5 p.m. on Sunday July 20, 2014.

Here is some food for thought:

While the rest of us were sleeping, Duran Duran was quickly becoming a formidable group of outstanding musicians. Their artistic vision would also include the use of highly innovative music videos. One of their most recent videos, "Girl Panic" transcends the genre. Their most recent live concert, "A Diamond In The Mind: Live 2011" is another spectacularly artistic triumph.

I am really starting to wonder, what will it take for Duran Duran to finally receive a nomination? Their induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame is now long overdue (8 years overdue, to be exact).

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 07/20/2014 @ 02:02am

Thank you, Nick, King and Dezmond for your support of Duran Duran. I had first heard of them while watching "Night Tracks" on WTBS and MTV in Chicago in the early 1980's. I had first purchased a copy of "Arena" on cassette and had listened quite a few times to it, over the past 3 decades. I had strongly disagreed with the critics who had given it only two stars, by the way.

I had somehow lost track of Duran Duran, until 1993 when I had heard "Duran Duran (aka 'The Wedding Album')" and their superlative singles, 'Ordinary World' and 'Come Undone.'

Then, in 1999, I had picked up a copy of "Greatest" on cd.

Once again, I had lost track of them again, until I had heard
the reformed original band release "Astronaut."

Unfortunately in November, 2006, someone had stolen a large number of compact discs from my car, after smashing in the passenger's side window.

I started reacquainting myself with the music of Duran Duran, when I had picked up a copy of "All You Need Is Now" in 2012 and "A Diamond In The Mind" in 2013.

Last Saturday, I had watched a large portion of "A Diamond In The Mind" on BluRay, in it's entirety. To quote Nick Rhodes, "I was completely blown away." I have to constantly keep asking myself, why isn't Duran Duran in the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame?"

Perhaps some of the members of the RRHOF Nominating Committee will pick up a copy of "A Diamond In The Mind," also and began asking themselves that exact same question.

Then of course, Naomi Campbell (as Simon LeBon) in their 'Girl Panic' video asks, "Has it been 30 years already?" I think that makes a great statement about the longevity of this great group. Thank you, Duran Duran.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Thursday, 08/7/2014 @ 09:43am

I am sorry, I had meant to write, KING, in that earlier post. Thank you to the vast number of Duran Duran supporters over the years, also.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Thursday, 08/7/2014 @ 10:07am

Back in April, 2013 when Rush, Heart, Randy Newman, the late Donna Summer & Albert King and Public Enemy were being inducted as performers into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame, Duran Duran was winning a Bay area opinion poll on who had next deserved to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame.

I am mentioning Rush once again, because the following opinion poll affects both Geddy Lee of Rush and John Taylor of Duran Duran. According to a Music Radar poll, John Taylor has once again beaten Geddy Lee of Rush as the world's best bassist:

http://www.musicradar.com/news/guitars/the-60-greatest-bassists-of-all-time-279007/60#!60

I think this alone is very significant. Add this to the fact that Duran Duran has in one form or another existed for over 36 consecutive years, has been instrumental in creating great music for more than 33 years, has pioneeered the use of artistic videos, has produced great concerts, has remained innovative and has been quite influential.

Isn't about time that the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame Nominating Committee takes all these factors into consideration and at the very least, nominate Duran Duran for induction into this esteemed institution?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 08/9/2014 @ 13:46pm

I am terribly sorry, I had needed to amend that last posting a bit:

About Duran Duran, Enigmaticus wrote:
   Back in April, 2013 when Rush, Heart, Randy Newman, the late Donna Summer & Albert King and Public Enemy were being inducted as performers into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame, Duran Duran was winning a Bay area opinion poll on who had next deserved to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame.

I am mentioning Rush once again, because the following opinion poll affects both Geddy Lee of Rush and John Taylor of Duran Duran. According to a Music Radar poll, John Taylor has once again beaten Geddy Lee of Rush as the world's best bassist:

http://www.musicradar.com/news/guitars/the-60-greatest-bassists-of-all-time-279007/60#!60

I think that this alone is very significant. Add this to the fact that Duran Duran has in one form or another existed for over 36 consecutive years, has been instrumental in creating great music for more than 33 years, has pioneeered the use of artistic videos, has produced great concerts, has remained innovative and has been quite influential, not to mention the fact that "A Diamond In The Mind" is a superlative concert video; Wow! I had no idea that Duran Duran was that great in concert! Maybe, the RRHOF Nominating Committe members need to see this BluRay, or DVD?

Isn't about time that the members of the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame Nominating Committee take all of these factors into consideration and at the very least, nominate Duran Duran for induction into this esteemed institution?

Simon Le Bon, Nick Rhodes, John Taylor, Roger Taylor, Warren Cuccurullo and Andy Taylor have given us more than 3 decades of great music, great lyrics, great videos and timeless songs. Isn't it time for Duran Duran to receive nominations for induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame?
Saturday, 08.9.14 @ 13:46pm
Leave your own comment about Duran Duran here.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 08/9/2014 @ 15:14pm

I am terribly sorry, I had needed to amend that last posting a bit:

About Duran Duran, Enigmaticus wrote:
   Back in April, 2013 when Rush, Heart, Randy Newman, the late Donna Summer & Albert King and Public Enemy were being inducted as performers into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame, Duran Duran was winning a Bay area opinion poll on who had next deserved to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame.

I am mentioning Rush once again, because the following opinion poll affects both Geddy Lee of Rush and John Taylor of Duran Duran. According to a Music Radar poll, John Taylor has once again beaten Geddy Lee of Rush as the world's best bassist:

http://www.musicradar.com/news/guitars/the-60-greatest-bassists-of-all-time-279007/60#!60

I think that this alone is very significant. Add this to the fact that Duran Duran has in one form or another existed for over 36 consecutive years, has been instrumental in creating great music for more than 33 years, has pioneeered the use of artistic videos, has produced great concerts, has remained innovative and has been quite influential, not to mention the fact that "A Diamond In The Mind" is a superlative concert video; Wow! I had no idea that Duran Duran was that great in concert! Maybe, the RRHOF Nominating Committee members need to watch this BluRay, or DVD?

Isn't about time that the members of the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame Nominating Committee take all of these factors into consideration and at the very least, nominate Duran Duran for nduction into this esteemed institution?

Simon Le Bon, Nick Rhodes, John Taylor, Roger Taylor, Warren Cuccurullo and Andy Taylor have given us more than 3 decades of great music, great lyrics, innovative videos and timeless songs. Isn't it time for Duran Duran to receive a nomination for induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 08/10/2014 @ 00:33am

Thanks for the kind words Enigmaticus. Duran Duran just seems to be a no brain pick for the Rock n Roll Hall of Fame. They have continued to evolve musically & write outstanding songs Most people know Duran Duran song or hummed along to Hungry Like The Wolf,RIO, Union of the Snake,etc.

Many of us children of the eighties are in late 30's & early 40's now. Duran Duran are in their mid 50's. Sure they could live into their 70's but why delay the honor. Thanks to all the posters who have supported Duran Duran RRHOF induction. Strength in numbers. My sister loves Duran Duran & would be happy too. KING

Posted by KING on Friday, 08/15/2014 @ 02:13am

You are very welcome, KING.

Oh by the way, according to their website:

http://www.duranduran.com/

"Duran Duran: Unstaged" with David Lynch is coming to various theaters on September 10, for one night only.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 08/16/2014 @ 09:28am

This is just a reminder:

Once again, the "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode on Duran Duran, is scheduled to air on VH-1 Classic @ 11 a.m. E.D.T. on Wednesday September 3, 2014.

If this day had only included Duran Duran, it would have been great, but with the "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode on Genesis airing @ 8 a.m. EDT and Rush's "Beyond The Lighted Stage" documentary airing @ 4:30 p.m. EDT on the same day, this is indeed a day to celebrate "art rock," in all of it's unabased glory.

As Neil Peart said in the Chapter: New World Men: "We all loved the music of that time... We were young enough to be influenced by ... We've never said that doesn't suit Rush.. Those words have never been spoken... "

In an earlier chapter, Alex Lifeson mentioned that he and Geddy were into "groups like Yes, Genesis and Pink Floyd, whereas John Rutsey was more into Bad Company..."

Geddy Lee said that Alex Lifeson had dressed like Simon Le Bon in another interview.

During the same time that Rush was being inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame, Duran Duran had won the Bay area poll on which artist had deserved to be inducted next into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame.

Add that to the fact that many Rush fans also like Duran Duran and vice versa and I think that Duran Duran has a very legitimate reason for induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame.

I have actively supported Duran Duran's induction at least for the past two years and had supported Rush's induction for the 15 years prior to their actual induction. The "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode on Duran Duran has been airing approximately once per month. Is this just a coincidence?



Here is some food for thought:


While the rest of us were sleeping, Duran Duran was quickly
becoming a formidable group of outstanding musicians. Their
artistic vision would also include the use of highly innovative
music videos. One of their most recent videos, "Girl Panic"
transcends the genre. Their most recent live concert, "A Diamond In The Mind: Live 2011" is another spectacularly artistic triumph.

I am really starting to wonder, what will it take for Duran Duran to finally receive a nomination? Their induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame is now long overdue (8 years overdue, to be exact).

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 08/24/2014 @ 09:03am

By the way, here is a link to that page:



http://www.vh1.com/shows/schedule/vh1classic/daily.jhtml?channels=%2Fshows%2Fschedule%2Fvh1classic%2Fdaily.jhtml&day=09%2F03%2F14

I am terribly sorry, I had needed to amend that last posting a bit:

About Duran Duran, Enigmaticus wrote:
   Back in April, 2013 when Rush, Heart, Randy Newman, the late Donna Summer & Albert King and Public Enemy were being inducted as performers into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame, Duran Duran was winning a Bay area opinion poll on who had next deserved to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame.

I am mentioning Rush once again, because the following opinion poll affects both Geddy Lee of Rush and John Taylor of Duran Duran. According to a Music Radar poll, John Taylor has once again beaten Geddy Lee of Rush as the world's best bassist:

http://www.musicradar.com/news/guitars/the-60-greatest-bassists-of-all-time-279007/60#!60

I think that this alone is very significant. Add this to the fact that Duran Duran has in one form or another existed for over 36 consecutive years, has been instrumental in creating great music for more than 33 years, has pioneeered the use of artistic videos, has produced great concerts, has remained innovative and has been quite influential, not to mention the fact that "A Diamond In The Mind" is a superlative concert video; Wow! I had no idea that Duran Duran was that great in concert! Maybe, the RRHOF Nominating Committee members need to watch this BluRay, or DVD?

Isn't about time that the members of the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame Nominating Committee take all of these factors into consideration and at the very least, nominate Duran Duran for nduction into this esteemed institution?

Simon Le Bon, Nick Rhodes, John Taylor, Roger Taylor, Warren Cuccurullo and Andy Taylor have given us more than 3 decades of great music, great lyrics, innovative videos and timeless songs. Isn't it time for Duran Duran to receive a nomination for induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 08/24/2014 @ 09:12am

I am terribly sorry, I had meant to say the following:

This is just a reminder:

Once again, the "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode on Duran Duran, is scheduled to air on VH-1 Classic @ 11 a.m. E.D.T. on Wednesday September 3, 2014.

If this day had only included Duran Duran, it would have been great, but with the "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode on Genesis airing @ 8 a.m. EDT and Rush's "Beyond The Lighted Stage" documentary airing @ 4:30 p.m. EDT on the same day, this is indeed a day to celebrate "art rock," in all of it's unabashed glory.

As Neil Peart said in the Chapter: New World Men: "We all loved the music of that time... We were young enough to be influenced by ... We've never said that doesn't suit Rush.. Those words have never been spoken... "

In an earlier chapter, Alex Lifeson mentioned that he and
Geddy were into "groups like Yes, Genesis and Pink Floyd, whereas John Rutsey was more into Bad Company..."

Geddy Lee said that Alex Lifeson had wanted to dress like Simon Le Bon in yet, another interview.

During the same time that Rush was being inducted into the
Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame, Duran Duran had won the Bay area poll on which artist had deserved to be inducted next
into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame.

Add this to the fact that many Rush fans also like Duran Duran and vice versa and I think that Duran Duran has a very
legitimate reason for being inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame.

I have actively supported Duran Duran's induction for at least the past two years and had supported Rush's induction for
the 15 years prior to their actual induction. The "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode on Duran Duran has been airing
approximately once per month. Is this just a coincidence?

Here is some food for thought:

While the rest of us were sleeping, Duran Duran was quickly becoming a formidable group of outstanding musicians. Their artistic vision would also include the use of highly innovative music videos. One of their most recent videos, "Girl Panic" transcends the genre. Their most recent live concert, "A Diamond In The Mind: Live 2011" is another spectacularly artistic triumph.

At this time, I am really starting to wonder, what will it take for Duran Duran to finally receive a nomination? Their induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame is now long overdue (8 years overdue, to be exact).

Posted by Enigmaticus on Monday, 08/25/2014 @ 09:39am

What qualities make an artist immortal?

This is just a reminder:

Once again, the "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode on Duran Duran, is scheduled to air on VH-1 Classic @ 11 a.m. E.D.T. on Wednesday September 3, 2014.

If this day had only included Duran Duran, it would have been great, but with the "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode on Genesis airing @ 8 a.m. EDT and Rush's "Beyond The Lighted Stage" documentary airing @ 4:30 p.m. EDT on the same day, this is indeed a day to celebrate "art rock," in all of it's unabased glory.

As Neil Peart said in the Chapter: New World Men: "We all loved the music of that time... We were young enough to be influenced by ... We've never said that doesn't suit Rush.. Those words have never been spoken... "

In an earlier chapter, Alex Lifeson mentioned that he and Geddy were into "groups like Yes, Genesis and Pink Floyd, whereas John Rutsey was more into Bad Company..."

Geddy Lee said that Alex Lifeson had dressed like Simon Le Bon in another interview.

During the same time that Rush was being inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame, Duran Duran had won the Bay area poll on which artist had deserved to be inducted next into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame.

Add that to the fact that many Rush fans also like Duran Duran and vice versa and I think that Duran Duran has a very legitimate reason for induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame.

I have actively supported Duran Duran's induction at least for the past two years and had supported Rush's induction for the 15 years prior to their actual induction. The "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode on Duran Duran has been airing approximately once per month. Is this just a coincidence?



Here is some food for thought:


While the rest of us were sleeping, Duran Duran was quickly
becoming a formidable group of outstanding musicians. Their
artistic vision would also include the use of highly innovative
music videos. One of their most recent videos, "Girl Panic"
transcends the genre. Their most recent live concert, "A Diamond In The Mind: Live 2011" is another spectacularly artistic triumph.

I am really starting to wonder, what will it take for Duran Duran to finally receive a nomination? Their induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame is now long overdue (8 years overdue, to be exact).

By the way, here is a link to that page:



http://www.vh1.com/shows/schedule/vh1classic/daily.jhtml?channels=%2Fshows%2Fschedule%2Fvh1classic%2Fdaily.jhtml&day=09%2F03%2F14

I am terribly sorry, I had needed to amend that last posting a bit:

About Duran Duran, Enigmaticus wrote:
   Back in April, 2013 when Rush, Heart, Randy Newman, the late Donna Summer & Albert King and Public Enemy were being inducted as performers into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame, Duran Duran was winning a Bay area opinion poll on who had next deserved to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame.

I am mentioning Rush once again, because the following opinion poll affects both Geddy Lee of Rush and John Taylor of Duran Duran. According to a Music Radar poll, John Taylor has once again beaten Geddy Lee of Rush as the world's best bassist:

http://www.musicradar.com/news/guitars/the-60-greatest-bassists-of-all-time-279007/60#!60

I think that this alone is very significant. Add this to the fact that Duran Duran has in one form or another existed for over 36 consecutive years, has been instrumental in creating great music for more than 33 years, has pioneeered the use of artistic videos, has produced great concerts, has remained innovative and has been quite influential, not to mention the fact that "A Diamond In The Mind" is a superlative concert video; Wow! I had no idea that Duran Duran was that great in concert! Maybe, the RRHOF Nominating Committee members need to watch this BluRay, or DVD?

Isn't about time that the members of the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame Nominating Committee take all of these factors into consideration and at the very least, nominate Duran Duran for induction into this esteemed institution?

Simon Le Bon, Nick Rhodes, John Taylor, Roger Taylor, Warren Cuccurullo and Andy Taylor have given us more than 3 decades of great music, great lyrics, innovative videos and timeless songs. Isn't it time for Duran Duran to receive a nomination for induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Friday, 08/29/2014 @ 10:16am

Enig, you probably won't like this, but I saw Chris Stein (founder of Blondie) say that the New Wave movement ended in 1984 (for him) when 2 bands, Wham! and Duran Duran had number 1 albums. He said they were New Wave bands with all the heart ripped out of them (or words to that effect).

Wham! will never, evr make it, but maybe that's why Duran Duran is still out?

Posted by Paul in KY on Sunday, 08/31/2014 @ 16:34pm

Well,

Paul in KY.

Chris Stein may have said that, but his fellow Blondie co-founder Debbie Harry has a very different opinion. She had even appeared in one of their documentaries. The members of Duran Duran have continued to perform magnificently in concert, have continued to be influential, innovative and have written many great songs with thought provoking lyrics for more than 3 decades. Additionally they have given back to their community through charitable endeavors. If those are not legitimate enough reasons to induct them into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame, then I have absolutely no idea, what could possibly be. Do you?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Monday, 09/1/2014 @ 16:40pm

Enig, glad to hear Debbie Harry has a different take on them.

It was in a recent edition of Red Bull magazine that I read the Chris Stein comments.

Posted by Paul in KY on Tuesday, 09/2/2014 @ 07:10am

Yes, Debbie Harry was included in one of their fan documentaries; they have quite a few of them, overall.


This is just a reminder:

Once again, the "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode on Duran Duran is scheduled to air on VH-1 Classic @ 11 a.m. E.D.T. on Wednesday September 3, 2014.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Tuesday, 09/2/2014 @ 09:32am

Actually the quote by Neil Peart was "... We all loved the music of that time... We were young enough to be influenced by it... We've never said that doesn't suit Rush... Those words have never been uttered..."

What does this mean exactly? Well, given Rush's penchant for the incorporation of synthesizers, electronic percussion and other popular styles during that time period, it is not inconceivable that Rush, the great progressive rock titans, may have been influenced by bands as diverse as: The Police, U2, Talking Heads, Ultravox, and of course, Duran
Duran.

We know that Alex Lifeson's and Geddy Lee's stage attire and hairstyle had reflected those of the so-called "new wave" bands. You don't dress like somebody whom you are not emulating. If you don't like their style of music, you are probably not going to adapt their fashion sensibilities.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Thursday, 09/4/2014 @ 10:06am

Actually the quote by Neil Peart was "... We all loved the music of that time... We were young enough to be influenced by it... We've never said that doesn't suit Rush... Those words have never been uttered..."

What does this mean exactly? Well, given Rush's penchant for the incorporation of synthesizers, electronic percussion and other popular styles during that time period, it is not inconceivable that Rush, the great progressive rock titans, may have been influenced by bands as diverse as: The Police, U2, Talking Heads, Ultravox, and of course, Duran
Duran.

We know that Alex Lifeson's and Geddy Lee's stage attire and hairstyle had reflected those of the so-called "new wave" bands. You don't dress like somebody whom you are not emulating. If you don't like their style of music, you are probably not going to adopt their fashion sensibilities.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Thursday, 09/4/2014 @ 10:14am

I haven't read through the long line of comments, but I do believe Duran Duran will get a shot of consideration in the RRHOF sometime within the next 3-4 years. Who knows, maybe this year. They will likely be remembered as 'the band that put out several pop-new wave hits in the 80s'. And then some may argue, 'Without MTV, they are nothing...'. Maybe that's the case. I'm sure they had a part in influencing some of these retro-sounding bands today, like The Killers and Matt & Kim.

Posted by Jason Voigt on Friday, 09/5/2014 @ 18:00pm

I am really looking forward to seeing "Duran Duran : Unstaged" next Monday night. I am hoping that Duran Duran will include the full length version of their 'Girl Panic' video on the BluRay version of their greatest videos.

With regards to Roxy Music, or Duran Duran, I would support either for immediate induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame, even though I prefer Duran Duran. Roxy Music did release two phenomenal albums: 'Avalon' and 'Country Life' and a few other great albums.

By comparison, Duran Duran has released at least six: "Duran Duran," "Rio," "Duran Duran (aka The Wedding Album)," "Astronaut," "All You Need Is Now" and "A Diamond In The Mind." Duran Duran had also released the BluRay of their 2011 tour. In my honest opinion, that video recorded at the Manchester M.E.N. Arena is one of the best concert videos which I have ever seen! It is also reason enough, for me to strongly advocate Duran Duran's immediate induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Thursday, 09/11/2014 @ 07:16am

Duran Duran is on the short list of the bands who definitely deserve induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame. Before you dismiss this idea, I strongly suggest that you watch a copy of their "A Diamond In The Mind 2011 Live" concert and tell me that it is not one of the greatest rock concerts that you have ever seen in your life. Over the past few years, the "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode on Duran Duran has been airing fairly regularly. Is this just a coincidence, or is a message to the Nominating Committee members that this band is worthy of induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame, in 2015?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Friday, 09/12/2014 @ 10:03am

A great concert with strange "Happy accidents." Yes, I finally had the opportunity to see most of David Lynch's "Duran Duran: Unstaged" yesterday evening. I had been looking forward to this film, since earlier this year.

Was it self consciously arty? Yes. Was it strange, unexpected and at times, quite hilarious? Yes, definitely.

Was the concert great? Absolutely.

Should everyone see it? Yes, I especially liked the close ups of the members playing their instruments. The wolves, clay faces and Barbie dolls were hilarious also.

Does Duran Duran deserve to be immediately inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame later this year? Yes, wiithout, a shadow of a doubt!

Posted by Enigmaticus on Tuesday, 09/16/2014 @ 09:51am

Duran Duran has definitely been busy working on their new album. According to a recent interview by the band, it may be their best work to date.

Perhaps next year, will finally be the year of Duran Duran?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Friday, 09/19/2014 @ 08:10am

I had watched the BBC documentary on Duran Duran yesterday. I must admit that it was really quite informative. Although, I think that one statement was the most poignant, "As long as Simon and Nick are still together, there will always be a Duran Duran."

Now, this is not to discount the great contributions of John, Roger, Dom, Andy, or Warren; it just seems to ring true. Duran Duran would not still exist as a band without the two core members, Simon and Nick. What do you happen to think?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 09/20/2014 @ 11:36am

Interesting question Enigmaticus. The importance of a singer & frontman like Simon would be difficult to replace. He writes the songs lyrics too.

Nick has been revolutionary in his keybards & synth work. I dont think Nick could be replaced. Almost 40 years outstanding work...mighty good.

I would include John Taylor. He's usually in the top bassist lists & there is a Rock Hall Of Fame criteria for superior musicanship...elect DD rock Hall of Fame! KING

Posted by KING on Monday, 09/22/2014 @ 20:14pm

KING,

Thank you for responding and I do agree that John's contributions are also very significant, however John had become dissolutioned with the band and as a result, had left Duran Duran during the middle of the "Medazzaland" sessions. He had returned prior to "Astronaut." Warren had stayed with Duran Duran through the release of "Pop Trash." Unfortunately, I still have not heard "Medazzaland," or "Pop Trash," yet.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Tuesday, 09/23/2014 @ 09:45am

I am sorry, I had meant to say, disillusioned instead.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Wednesday, 09/24/2014 @ 02:55am

While we are on the subject of first gigs, I thought that it might be appropriate to discover the date of Duran Duran's first gig.

http://80smusicmixtape.wordpress.com/2013/07/16/33-years-ago-first-duran-duran-gig/comment-page-1/

Now that date is more than 34 years ago. So, I think that is yet another reason to induct Duran Duran into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame: longevity.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Thursday, 09/25/2014 @ 09:45am

My 2015 RRHOF nominees include 1.Duran Duran 2.Lou Reed 3.NWA 4.Foreigner 5.Def Leppard 6.Paul Rodgers 7.Steve Miller 8.Green Day 9.Janet Jackson 10.Chicago 11.Deep Purple 12.Pat Benatar 13.YES 14.Kool & The Gang 15.LL Cool J 16.The Zombies
Like Enigmaticus, Im hoping Simon & Nick and Duran Duran receive nomination & induction. KING

Posted by KING on Thursday, 09/25/2014 @ 18:16pm

Thank you KING for your ongoing support of Duran Duran. By the way, your nominees list is outstanding. From your list, I would choose: Duran Duran, Lou Reed, Yes, Chicago, Foreigner and Green Day as inductees.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Monday, 09/29/2014 @ 09:45am

Getting close to Nomination time Enigmaticus. You put in alot of research & support for Duran Duran and I hope it pays off with a (Durán ) Duran Duran October nomination. Should be their year. KING

Posted by KING on Thursday, 10/2/2014 @ 23:28pm

You are most certainly welcome, KING.

Now, I will need to listen to the following Duran Duran CDs over the next few weeks: Duran Duran, Seven And The Ragged Tiger, Notorious, Big Thing, Liberty, Medazzaland, Pop Trash and Red Carpet Massacre.

Of course, thus far my top 5 favorite Duran Duran albums are:

Rio
A Diamond In The Mind (BluRay, or DVD)
All You Need Is Now
Duran Duran (aka 'The Wedding Album')
Astronaut

I also really like:

Thank You
Arena

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 10/4/2014 @ 10:58am

With the recent nominations of Sting, as a solo artist and Lou Reed, posthumously along with Chic, perhaps the stage is being set for Duran Duran. I apologize to Kirk Harrington for not being able to get Duran Duran a nomination this year. Perhaps, the Nominating Committee, along with many of their fans, are still eagerly awaiting their new release in 2015?

Meanwhile, Duran Duran appears to be getting better with age. Perhaps there needs to be a campaign, along the lines of "Voices For Yes, " in order to get the Rock Hall's attention?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 10/11/2014 @ 06:53am

Once again, the "Behind The Music: Remastered," episode featuring Duran Duran is scheduled to be aired on VH-1 Classic @ 11 a.m. EDT on Wednesday October 22, 2014. Thank you.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Tuesday, 10/21/2014 @ 10:57am

It's hard to believe Duran Duran was NOT nominated again. The list of Nominees really doesn't make sense when you consider Lou Reed & Sting are already in the RRHOF & Chic has been nominated for like the 50th time. Why would they make it in 2015? The lack of hard rock & heavy metal bands was shocking. No Def Leopard,Deep Purple, Bon Jovi, Foreigner, Judas Priest. There seems to be this sudden push to get Joan Jett inducted. I like the Bill Withers & War nominations but I don't know if they will make it. Here is who I think gets inducted April 2015. 1.Green Day 2.Lou Reed 3. Joan Jett & B 4.Sting 5.NWA 6.Chic I would not be surprised if NIN or The Spinners is inducted. KING

Posted by KING on Wednesday, 10/22/2014 @ 22:43pm

There's a year to the next nominations list. Have to start early for Duran Duran October 2015 Nominee RRHOF. I think you could argue Duran Duran is good or greater than each of the 15 nominees this year. As Enigmaticus has brilliantly written over the last 2 years, I really don't know what Duran Duran is missing. They have so many outstanding qualities...Innovation and Influence, Gold & Platinum Records, Top 10 hits, awards, creative longevity, outstanding concert/live performances. They had successful spin off groups Arcadia & Power Stations who had hits. Including the Band Aid collaboration & Live Aid concert. Duran Duran were included in many important music shows. They have fulfilled the RRHOF criteria presented. KING

Posted by KING on Friday, 10/24/2014 @ 03:47am

KING,


I could not possibly agree more. Perhaps, the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame Nominating Committee is eagerly awaiting the release of the next Duran Duran album?

Otherwise, maybe the Nominating Committee members have decided to split up the cities and their subsequent induction strategies: Los Angeles (for the induction of the "art rock/progressive rock" artists), New York (for the induction of the "hard rock/heavy metal" bands and Cleveland (for the induction of "punk rock/alternative rock" acts). What do you think?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Thursday, 11/13/2014 @ 08:10am

None of the above.

Posted by Dezmond on Thursday, 11/13/2014 @ 12:59pm

Dezmond,

N.O.T.A.?

Please explain. Thank you.

When Rush was nominated back in October, 2012, three other "progressive rock" acts were nominated also: Procol Harum, Deep Purple and Kraftwerk. Plus one "prog adjacent" act was inducted also: Heart.

Two progressive rock acts were nominated last year: Yes and Peter Gabriel (as a solo artist). However as we are well aware, only Peter Gabriel had been inducted. However, hard rock acts KISS and Nirvana were inducted.

This year: Green Day, Nine Inch Nails and The Smiths were nominated. Are those not "alternative bands?"

Later this year, I suspect that there will be at least 3 progressive rock acts on the ballot. Let's see if I am correct!

Posted by Enigmaticus on Friday, 11/14/2014 @ 08:19am

Why do I think that Duran Duran is an "art rock " band?

1. Among their main influences were: Roxy Music, David Bowie and The Velvet Underground.

2. Instrumentation: Duran Duran employs keyboards, guitars, bass guitars, drums, vocals and occasionally unusual instruments in their presentation.

3. One of their spinoff groups, Arcadia, is classified as an "art rock" band, also.

4. The use of string sections, or orchestras, in order to enhance their songs: Rush, Yes, Procol
Harum, ELP, Kansas and even Deep Purple have done this also.

5. Simon Le Bon is not just the lyricist, but is actively involved in the arrangement and/or orchestration of their songs. Jon Anderson of Yes also does this.

6. Nick Rhodes is a highly regarded keyboard player, arranger and producer. He is also a composer, not unlike Geddy Lee.

7. The incorporation of saxophones into songs,
Pink Floyd has done this also.

8. Not everything that Duran Duran has created was written in 4/4 time was it?

9. The utilization of artistic motifs, in conjunction with the music.

10. The idea that whatever is needed to enhance a song will be employed.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Friday, 11/14/2014 @ 08:46am

Why do I think that Duran Duran is an "art rock " band?

1. Among their main influences were: Roxy Music, David Bowie and The Velvet Underground.

2. Instrumentation: Duran Duran employs keyboards, guitars, bass guitars, drums, vocals and occasionally unusual instruments in their presentation.

3. One of their spinoff groups, Arcadia, is classified as an "art rock" band, also.

4. The use of string sections, or orchestras, in order to enhance their songs: Rush, Yes, Procol
Harum, ELP, Kansas and even Deep Purple have done this also.

5. Simon Le Bon is not just the lyricist, but is actively involved in the arrangement and/or orchestration of their songs. Jon Anderson, formerly of Yes has also done this.

6. Nick Rhodes is a highly regarded keyboard player, arranger and producer. He is also a composer, not unlike Geddy Lee.

7. The incorporation of saxophones into songs;
Pink Floyd has done this also.

8. Not everything that Duran Duran has created was written in 4/4 time was it?

9. The utilization of artistic motifs, in conjunction with the music.

10. The idea that whatever is needed to enhance a song will be employed. This is the progressive urge.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Friday, 11/14/2014 @ 08:55am

Reasons continued:


11. The ability to reproduce their studio songs accurately, or to improve upon them in a concert setting.

12. The presence of a world class bassist, or a virtuoso instrumentalist, e.g. John Taylor.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Friday, 11/14/2014 @ 22:32pm

What do Duran Duran and Rush have in common, besides enormous fanbases?

1. Stars on the Hollywood Walk Of Fame

2. Multiple Grammy nominations

3. Induction into their respective nations' Songwriter's hall of fames

4. The investment of their time and money in great number of charitable endeavors.

5. Acknowledgement by their peers as legendary bands: the BRIT award for Duran Duran; the Classic Rock Roll Of Honor- Living Legend for Rush.

6. Both bands have highly regarded bassists.

7. Both have distinctive sounds which make them instantaneously recognizable.

8. Both bands are not afraid to incorporate different styles into their musical fabric.

9. Both have made the audacious move of releasing cover songs by bands who had inspired them.

10. Both have incorporated string sections, in order to enhance their songs, either in studio, or in concert. In this way, both pay homage to groups like The Moody Blues.

11. Both were huge band during the 1980's.

12. Both have written timeless songs with provocative lyrics.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 11/15/2014 @ 10:28am

What do Duran Duran and Rush have in common, besides enormous fanbases?

1. Stars on the Hollywood Walk Of Fame

2. Multiple Grammy nominations

3. Induction into their respective nations' Songwriter's hall of
fames.

4. The investment of their time and money in a great number of charitable endeavors.

5. Acknowledgement by their peers as legendary bands: the BRIT award for Duran Duran; the Classic Rock Roll Of Honour- Living Legends Award for Rush.

6. Both bands have highly regarded bassists.

7. Both have distinctive sounds which make them instantaneously recognizable.

8. Both bands are not afraid to incorporate different styles, or techniques into the creation of their musical fabrics.

9. Both have made the audacious move of releasing cover
songs by bands who had inspired them.

10. Both have incorporated string sections, in order to enhance their songs, either in studio, or in concert. In this way, both pay homage to groups like The Moody Blues.

11. Both were huge bands during the 1980's.

12. Both have written timeless songs with provocative lyrics.

13. Both bands are magnificent in concert and may be even better in a live setting than a studio setting.

14. Both bands have been influential on a large number of musicians.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 11/15/2014 @ 11:37am

Enig, your explanations for why Duran Duran are art rock don't hold up, or at least are so broad as to be essentially meaningless.

2. Lynyrd Skynyrd also employed keyboards, bass, drums and guitars. So did Billy Joel's band. Or about 50000 other bands.

4. The Rolling Stones used strings. Simon and Garfunkel.

5. Sammy Hagar was involved in arranging Van Halen songs.

6. Billy Joel is a highly regarded keyboard player and arranger.

7. Bruce Springsteen songs often feature sax.

8. The Police wrote in other time signatures.

11. ZZ Top could accurately reproduce their songs live, improvise and improve

12. The Allman Brothers Band featured virtuosos

None of the above artists are art rock

Posted by dezmond on Saturday, 11/15/2014 @ 15:37pm

Desmond,

Yes, however unlike each of the aforementioned bands, Duran Duran and Rush employ all of those characteristics in their music; hence, they are "art rock groups."

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 11/15/2014 @ 16:21pm

Dezmond,

Yes, however unlike each of the aforementioned bands, Duran Duran and Rush employ all of those characteristics in their music; hence, they are "art rock groups." Why do you think that they are not?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 11/15/2014 @ 16:27pm

I didn't say that they weren't. Duran Duran is arguable, though. I just said your analysis was fatally flawed.

Posted by dezmond on Saturday, 11/15/2014 @ 19:20pm

I didn't say that they weren't. Duran Duran is arguable, though. I just said your analysis was fatally flawed.

Posted by dezmond on Saturday, 11/15/2014 @ 19:20pm

Rush has saxophones?

Posted by dezmond on Saturday, 11/15/2014 @ 19:24pm

Desmond,

As far as I know, Rush has not employed saxophones per se, but they definitely have employed horn sections previously. By the way, why do you find my analysis fatally flawed? Please provide support for your opinion!

I have already given you 12 reasons why Duran Duran is an "art rock" band.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 11/16/2014 @ 01:33am

I did. And I am not saying that Duran Duran might fall on the margins of that term. But your 12 criteria were so broad and I showed you that they could be applied to many very non - art rock artists. For instance, use of saxophones? I mean, in addition to Springsteen, there was a lot of sax in 80s pop or a lot of R&B. How is use of saxophone indicative of art rock? When actually, I bet most art rock groups do not feature sax. I know Roxy Music did, but who else?

Posted by dezmond on Sunday, 11/16/2014 @ 10:13am

Yes, Roxy Music did feature saxophones, so did Supertramp, Van der Graaf Generator, Pink Floyd, The Moody Blues, King Crimson, or any of the groups which had a jazz base to their sound. Neither Rush, Yes, nor Genesis have as of yet. I am not saying that they will not in the future, however.

I should have said bands that have employed unusual rock instrumentation, such as brass, or woodwinds, instead. In which case, I could also include Chicago, Genesis, Jethro Tull and Jefferson Airplane also.

The definitions of "progressive rock," or "art rock" are fairly broad, overall.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 11/16/2014 @ 13:36pm

Duran Duran is basically a pop band. Nothing wrong with that, as there are more pop bands in HOF than 'art rock' bands.

Posted by Paul in KY on Monday, 11/17/2014 @ 08:06am

What is "pop?"

Posted by Enigmaticus on Tuesday, 11/18/2014 @ 08:58am

I agree, Duran Duran is pop with a little new-wave on the side. I still think they belong in the RRHOF soon. A lot of people may think they revolutionized MTV and they did, along with music videos. It's just too bad music videos are becoming more and more extinct on TV. MTV needs to change their name to RTV or TTV (Teen TV). But I also do think they helped lead the 2nd British invasion, along with Boy George and George Michael. Like them or not, they are pop culture icons. And I consider them to be influential. Listening to Matt & Kim proves it.

Posted by Jason Voigt on Wednesday, 11/19/2014 @ 00:44am

What would happen, hypothetically, if the members of Rush and the members of Duran Duran had met each other in a bar. Would they decide to tour together?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Thursday, 11/20/2014 @ 08:01am

No.

Posted by Dezmond on Thursday, 11/20/2014 @ 12:30pm

Why not?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Monday, 11/24/2014 @ 08:27am

Because it makes no sense.

There is no connection between the two, musically, other than Enigmaticus really likes them both. Is that enough? Perhaps.

Actually, I take that back. I now see the light. They have a lot in common now that I think about it. They both have guitar players. They both have bass players. They both have drummers. they both have some keyboards. Nevermind. They are musical soulmates. Of course they will tour together. I also hear that they plan on disbanding both groups and forming a new supergroup together called Rushuran.

Posted by Dezmond on Monday, 11/24/2014 @ 10:08am

I think Duran Duran should be in Rock n Roll HOF for almost 40 years of quality & timeless music. Maybe, the question should be what did the selection committee see in the other candidates not Duran Duran? I know longevity is not always considered but a band still creating quality music 40 years later should be a plus. I cannot think of any reason Duran Duran why they should be left out of RRHOF. They have succeeded in albums sold, concert tours, Top 40 hits, popularity and chart topping hits. Just a great band. Deserve induction in 2015-2016. Other than Deep Purple and Chicago, I cant think of any bands who are more deserving. Keep up the fight Keep up the fight Kee p up the fight Enigmaticus! KING

Posted by KING on Monday, 11/24/2014 @ 20:18pm

Dez,

I was R.O.F.L.M.A.O.T.W.A.D.R. at that one. But seriously, in the early days, Rush had opened for some very unusual bands, namely The New York Dolls, Sha Na Na and KISS, so a pairing with Duran Duran would not really be that weird. ;-)

Posted by Enigmaticus on Tuesday, 11/25/2014 @ 07:49am

KING,

Thank you for your support. I hope that the members of the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame Nominating Committee will view "A Diamond In The Mind" and "Duran Duran: Unstaged." This may help them realize how ridiculously overlooked Duran Duran has been. Yes, I would also agree that Duran Duran would tower above most of the 2015 nominees. :-)

Posted by Enigmaticus on Tuesday, 11/25/2014 @ 08:05am

So-called "new wave" is a commercial umbrella term used to describe music after the advent of punk; it covers over 130 different genres.

"Pop" implies popular music, played often by sexually provocative female artists.

"Art rock," or "Crossover Prog" is the more commercial side of "progressive rock," this includes groups such as: Supertramp, The Moody Blues, Roxy Music, Kate Bush, Peter Gabriel, amongst others.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Tuesday, 11/25/2014 @ 08:16am

Here is a link to the definition of "Crossover Prog," I.e. "art rock":


http://www.progarchives.com/subgenre.asp?style=3

Posted by Enigmaticus on Tuesday, 11/25/2014 @ 08:58am

Simon le Bon, the Taylor Brothers...never used sex appeal in their recordings/videos. NosireeeBob, never happened.

'Hungry like the Wolf' is about a poor man with an eating disorder.

Posted by Paul in KY on Tuesday, 11/25/2014 @ 11:55am

The three Taylors of DD are not related.

Enig, glad you can take our disagreements in stride and with humour. I hope you know that most of them time I'm poking fun at you in the same spirit.

While we may debate over genres, classifications, and so forth we do agree that Duran Duran is a great, great band and completely falls within the criteria established by the Rockhall for induction. Influence, Innovation, and Musical Excellence. No question in all three areas.

I would put DD in my Top 10 Snubs list easily.

Posted by Dezmond on Tuesday, 11/25/2014 @ 13:43pm

Dezmond, if I referred to them as 'The Taylii', would that make my point valid?

Posted by Paul in KY on Wednesday, 11/26/2014 @ 07:26am

That would suffice.

Posted by Dezmond on Wednesday, 11/26/2014 @ 10:09am

Once again, the "Behind The Music: Remastered," episode featuring Duran Duran is scheduled to be aired on VH-1 Classic @ 10:30 p.m. EST on Tuesday December 16, 2014. Thank you.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 12/13/2014 @ 02:05am

Congrats to Green Day,Lou Reed, Joan Jett, SRV etc for their recent inductee to RRHOF. A tremendous honor for any music artist . I was surprised Sting didn't make it. He's a legend in the music industry and respected by other RRHOF's.Sting is in with The Police. He probably will be nominated again in a few years. Duran Duran should be inducted in the next 5 years. A new generation of music listeners will egin listening to tDD music catalogue. It really is an impressive Greatest Hits CD stretching over different years & styles. The Music Committee has done an outstanding job in recent years. It must be difficult choosing 15 nominees out of 2500 or hundreds of groups who made music. Hoping 2016 Duran Duran time. KING

Posted by KING on Monday, 12/29/2014 @ 19:00pm

I had just realized that I had been creating my Duran Duran page for my website at the same time that I had been working on my Rush page.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Friday, 01/16/2015 @ 10:56am

Once again, the "Behind The Music: Remastered," episode featuring Duran Duran is scheduled to be aired on VH-1 Classic @ 12 p.m. EST on Sunday January 25, 2015.
Thank you.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 01/24/2015 @ 15:48pm

Enigmaticus, once again......who cares? It's a no.

Posted by Clark Howard on Saturday, 01/24/2015 @ 16:02pm

"Enigmaticus, once again......who cares?"

Agreed.

"It's a no."

Disagreed.

Posted by DarinRG on Saturday, 01/24/2015 @ 18:52pm

"Enigmaticus, once again......who cares?"

I would if I had VH1 classic

"It's a no."

I think they should be in. Not sure if they'll get in next year but I could see it happening in the next 3 or four years

While they're at it put Roxy Music and Brian Eno in too.

Posted by Tom H. on Saturday, 01/24/2015 @ 19:33pm

Thank you for supporting Duran Duran's induction, DarinRG and Tom H.,

By the way, what is pop?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Monday, 01/26/2015 @ 08:23am

By the way, what is pop?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Monday, 01.26.15 @ 08:23am
--------------------------------------------------
Try this as a definition:

"Rock is made when some variation of a bass-drums-guitar group comes together because they just gotta rock. Pop is made when some congregation of disparate elements - often a producer, an engineer, a cute vocalist, and session men or machines (cf. Britney Spears, Michael Jackson, Backstreet Boys, Boyz II Men, N'Sync, Bobby Sherman, the Monkees, the Spice Girls) - comes together with the express purpose of charting a commercially successful song."

John Strausbaugh, "Rock Til You Drop, c. 2001

This is a fairly solid definition, in my view. You can also label all of hip-hop, modern R&B, modern crossover country, and most commercial rock acts (including 99% of the vaunted "Indie" rock scene) of the current century under this heading as well. Technically, you can label the majority of 21st century music under this heading.

One of the reasons I left this site is cause I saw more and more of this music gaining greater traction over here. I saw the better portion of the 90's being re-made, in my viewpoint, under circumstances that really didn't tell it like it was. In addition, I had noted on several occasions that there was rock music, a.k.a. the genuine article, still being made in the 21st century. This went unheeded. As it stands, this site has pretty much followed the consensus of everyone else, in that it's only looking at "rock" through pop eyes. One reason I tried to get the Voter's Choice section of the monthly song votes instituted was to see if anyone else had realized what I had, over time. It was an attempt to reroute the system, in the hopes of perhaps seeing if a shift could take place. At this point, it really doesn't matter.

If you really want to know the diff. between pop and rock, think about the two bands you love - Rush and Duran Duran.

Duran Duran - cute vocalists, video image, 3-4 minute songs, etc.

Rush - jamming out the wazoo, little video image, music that moves in whatever direction the players feel like going (especially live).

I do, in fact, like them both. In addition, I do not think pop is bad. I am not an enemy of pop. It's just not rock.

Posted by Cheesecrop on Tuesday, 01/27/2015 @ 06:06am

Cheesecrop,

Thank you for your astute opinions about what constitutes "pop" and " rock." I appreciate your input!

Posted by Enigmaticus on Monday, 03/2/2015 @ 08:58am

There really is no solid argument against Duran Duran being inducted. Nearly 40 years of innovative videos & exotic and interesting songs that captivate the listener. Duran Duran has outlasted most of the bands that were similar in style and still strong. Rio, Planet Earth, Hungry Like The Wolf, Save A Prayer and 3 CDs of Greatest Hits. Innovation & Influence to boot. In mid 50's and still grinding out the music. A King salute to Duran Duran. Elect DD HOF!!! KING

Posted by KING on Tuesday, 03/24/2015 @ 23:35pm

The month of June will mark the 18th anniversary since I had started creating my long-archived website. Back in those days the Internet was relatively new to the public at large. While I was creating my webpages using HTML code, I was contemplating what to write about. I had decided to dedicate the majority of my site to the topic of 'art rock,' or 'progressive rock.'

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 04/19/2015 @ 23:13pm

Once again, the "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode featuring Duran Duran is scheduled to air on VH1 Classic on Tuesday April 28, 2015 @ 3:30 p.m. E.D.T.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Thursday, 04/23/2015 @ 01:31am

Hoping 2016 Duran Duran is inducted. They have earned RRHOF induction. I remember seeing Duran Duran in an outdoor venue late 90's. They rocked and Simon's voice was strong. Draw a line. Name 10 bands more deserving of RRHOF than Duran Duran. KING

Posted by KING on Saturday, 04/25/2015 @ 20:34pm

Thank you KING, I would be hard pressed to name 5 bands more deserving of induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame than Duran Duran. If Duran Duran had released only "Rio," then they still would have been worthy of induction. I think that the reasons why Duran Duran deserves induction are best revealed in their 'Girl Panic' video, where Naomi Campbell (as Simon Le Bon) says that "Music is in our blood."

Posted by Enigmaticus on Tuesday, 04/28/2015 @ 09:32am

Actually the quote is something like this: "We want to make ourselves and our fans happy, so we continue to make music; it's in our blood." What better reason is there to induct Duran Duran than this one?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Tuesday, 04/28/2015 @ 09:50am

Gotta disagree with you here, Enig. If the band had only released 'Rio' (and then never anything else), I would not find them to be Hall worthy. That was a great album, but not enough by itself to get them in (IMO).

I do think they should be inducted.

Posted by Paul in KY on Tuesday, 04/28/2015 @ 14:54pm

Gotta disagree with you here, Enig. If the band had only released 'Rio' (and then never anything else), I would not find them to be Hall worthy. That was a great album, but not enough by itself to get them in (IMO).

I do think they should be inducted.

Posted by Paul in KY on Tuesday, 04/28/2015 @ 14:54pm

"I would be hard pressed to name 5 bands more deserving of induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame than Duran Duran."--Enig

The Moody Blues
Deep Purple
Chicago
Electric Light Orchestra
Kraftwerk
Kool And The Gang
The Cure

Not that taxing. That's not even getting into some of my personally more subjective territory. That's me trying to be objective here.

"'We want to make ourselves and our fans happy, so we continue to make music; it's in our blood.' What better reason is there to induct Duran Duran than this one?"--Enig again.

Innovation, influence, serious impact. Not that Duran Duran doesn't have these things, but "still recording and touring after all these years" is a flimsy reason at best. That's puts them right up there with a pantheon of other acts that keep putting out albums for their core fans even though they slipped away from relevance many moons ago.

And again, I say all this as someone who believes Duran Duran should be inducted.

Posted by Philip on Tuesday, 04/28/2015 @ 20:58pm

Paul in KY,


I was just kidding about "Rio." However, Duran Duran is definitely worthy of immediate induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame due to the many reasons that I have cited previously.

As far as the 2015 class is concerned, I really do not understand Joan Jett's induction at all.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Thursday, 04/30/2015 @ 09:50am

No problem, Enig. Hopefully, they will be in next few years.

Posted by Paul in KY on Thursday, 04/30/2015 @ 13:21pm

I cannot believe that I am writing this, but once again, the "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode featuring Duran Duran is scheduled to air on VH-1 Classic on Wednesday May 6, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. E.D.T.

In addition to innovation, influence, longevity and outstanding musicianship, Duran Duran has continued to produce exemplary live recordings. Their latest DVD or BluRay of their last tour, "A Diamond In The Mind" is phenomenal. I highly recommend watching it. Additionally, Duran Duran are releasing their latest studio offering in the autumn of this year.

As far as bands who deserve induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame as much, or possibly more than Duran Duran is concerned, I would argue that list consists almost entirely of progressive rock artists:

Yes
The Moody Blues
Electric Light Orchestra
Jethro Tull
King Crimson

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 05/2/2015 @ 09:16am

Here are the other artists who should be given consideration for induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame, immediately, (in my opinion) in addition to Duran Duran:

Sade
Doobie Brothers
Carly Simon
Roxy Music
Twisted Sister
Lionel Richie
Supertramp
Depeche Mode
Deep Purple
Foreigner
Bad Company

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 05/2/2015 @ 09:27am

The point is that Duran Duran have done an amazing job over the past 35 years of their existence. They have created a slew of innovative and influential albums. They have remained relevant and have continued to strive for excellence. They are on a short list of those artists who deserve immediate induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 05/2/2015 @ 09:39am

I cannot believe that I am writing this, but once again, the "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode featuring Duran Duran is scheduled to air on VH-1 Classic on Wednesday May 6, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. E.D.T.

In addition to innovation, influence, longevity and outstanding musicianship, Duran Duran has continued to produce exemplary live recordings. Their latest DVD or BluRay of their last tour, "A Diamond In The Mind" is phenomenal. I highly recommend watching it. Additionally, Duran Duran are releasing their latest studio offering in the autumn of this year.

As far as bands who deserve induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame as much, or possibly more than Duran Duran is concerned, I would argue that that list consists almost entirely of these progressive rock artists:

Yes
The Moody Blues
Electric Light Orchestra
Jethro Tull
King Crimson
Chicago

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 05/2/2015 @ 09:46am

Here are the other artists who should be given consideration for induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame, immediately, (in my opinion) in addition to Duran Duran:

Sade
Doobie Brothers
Carly Simon
Roxy Music
Twisted Sister
Lionel Richie
Supertramp
Depeche Mode
Deep Purple
Foreigner
Bad Company
Eurythmics
Culture Club
Def Leppard
Judas Priest
Iron Maiden
Styx
Kansas
Blue Oyster Cult
Pat Benatar

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 05/2/2015 @ 09:52am

Agree Enigmaticus on Duran Duran & Moody Blues induction in the RRHOF. It's amazing that Duran Duran not in RRHOF yet when other groups sneak in. Would like to see Def Leppard in RRHOF. As for Duran Duran, I'm a big fan of Rio,Serious, Girls On Film, Union Of The Snake,Save A Prayer, Ordinary World. Maybe, that's a Duran Duran exercise. Say you have 12 hits on a CD. How many CD's of Duran Duran hits could you make before you run out of classic DD songs?4...5...That's RRHOF!!! KING

Posted by KING on Sunday, 05/3/2015 @ 02:11am

I cannot believe that I am writing this, but once again, the "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode featuring Duran Duran is scheduled to air on VH-1 Classic on Wednesday May 6, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. E.D.T. I have just noticed that the "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode featuring Duran Duran is also scheduled to air on VH-1 Classic on Thursday May 14, 2015 at 9:00 p.m. E.D.T.

In addition to innovation, influence, longevity and outstanding musicianship, Duran Duran has continued to produce exemplary live recordings. Their latest DVD or BluRay of their last tour, "A Diamond In The Mind" is phenomenal. I highly recommend watching it. Additionally, Duran Duran are releasing their latest studio offering in the autumn of this year.

As far as bands who deserve induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame as much, or possibly more than Duran Duran is concerned, I would argue that that list consists almost entirely of these progressive rock artists:

Yes
The Moody Blues
Electric Light Orchestra
Jethro Tull
King Crimson
Chicago

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 05/3/2015 @ 20:33pm

Stick 'em in there for Christs sake.
Totally deserved inclusion.

How long do you have to wait?
35 years not long enough?

When you talk about the 80s music, culture influence, videos and MTV, you cannot possibly leave this band out. They are indisputably part of, whether you like it or not, Rock and Roll history.
The 50s/60s fans who created the RARHOF hated the 80s music as it was a sure sign that their time had passed.

Fairs fair.

They turned out to be a bloody good band as well, all said and done.

Posted by jim68 on Monday, 05/4/2015 @ 14:35pm

I love the support for Duran Duran. They were one of my first favorites and they are deserving, but until Roxy Music, Kraftwerk and Chic are in we're arguing for the cart to pull the horse.

Posted by DarinRG on Monday, 05/4/2015 @ 22:37pm

You could make the argument that Duran Duran is one of the 10 best groups of all time. After Led Zeppelin, The Who, The Beatles and a few others, DD doesn't take a backseat to anyone. Elect Duran Duran 2016 RRHOF! KING

Posted by KING on Thursday, 05/7/2015 @ 00:45am

I will not mince words, Duran Duran is definitely a superlative group. They are definitely amongst the top 10 of my favorite bands. Thank you jim68, KING and Darin for your support.

As far as Roxy Music is concerned, I do believe that "Avalon" and "Country Life" are both brilliant masterpieces.


Here are my favorite 20 musical artists:

1. Rush
2. Yes
3. The Moody Blues
4. Pink Floyd
5. Jethro Tull
6. King Crimson
7. Genesis
8. Duran Duran
9. Talking Heads

10. Jefferson Airplane
11. Fleetwood Mac
12. Sade
13. Supertramp
14. Gentle Giant
15. Kansas
16. Emerson, Lake & Palmer
17. Electric Light Orchestra
18. The Beatles
19. Procol Harumi
20. Andreas Vollenweider

Posted by Enigmaticus on Thursday, 05/7/2015 @ 10:05am

I will not mince words, Duran Duran is definitely a superlative group. They are definitely amongst the top 10 of my favorite bands. Thank you jim68, KING and Darin for your support.

As far as Roxy Music is concerned, I do believe that "Avalon" and "Country Life" are both brilliant masterpieces.


Here are my favorite 20 musical artists:

1. Rush
2. Yes
3. The Moody Blues
4. Pink Floyd
5. Jethro Tull
6. King Crimson
7. Genesis
8. Duran Duran
9. Talking Heads

10. Jefferson Airplane
11. Fleetwood Mac
12. Sade
13. Supertramp
14. Gentle Giant
15. Kansas
16. Emerson, Lake & Palmer
17. Electric Light Orchestra
18. The Beatles
19. Procol Harum
20. Andreas Vollenweider

Posted by Enigmaticus on Thursday, 05/7/2015 @ 10:05am

I think this is the year 2015 Duran Duran will be nominated and elected for 2016 Rock n Roll Hall of Fame. Here's 19 others who are on my possible nomination list. 1.Duran Duran 2.Stevie Nicks 3.Chicago 4.Lionel Richie 5.The Cure 6.Moody Blues 7.Judas Priest 8.Kool & The Gang 9.Deep Purple 10.The Black Crowes 11.Nine Inch Nails 12.Pat Benatar 13.B'52's 14.Procol Harum 15.War 16.Def Leppard 17.Eric B & Rakim 18.Joe Cocker 19.Steve Miller Band 20. One of the first time eligible great bands. What do you think? KING

Posted by KING on Saturday, 05/9/2015 @ 23:42pm

It is a good list, KING. However, I think that Yes will also receive a nomination.

This is just a reminder; the "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode featuring Duran Duran is scheduled to air on VH1 Classic on Thursday May 14, 2015 at 9:00 p.m. E.D.T.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Monday, 05/11/2015 @ 09:26am

Once again, the "Behind The Music: Remitted" episode featuring Duran Duran is scheduled to air on VH-1 Classic at 6:00 p.m. E.D.T. on Thursday May 14, 2015. That's tonight folks!

Additionally, an extended and remastered version of "Rio" is scheduled to be released on June 22, 2015.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Thursday, 05/14/2015 @ 17:33pm

Once again, the "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode featuring Duran Duran is scheduled to air on VH-1 Classic at 6:00 p.m. E.D.T. on Thursday May 14, 2015. That's tonight folks!

Additionally, an extended and remastered version of "Rio" is scheduled to be released on June 22, 2015.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Thursday, 05/14/2015 @ 22:30pm

Actually, I stand corrected, the "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode featuring Duran Duran had aired at 9:00 p.m. E.D.T. tonight on VH-1 Classic.

Nearly 35 years ago this month, Duran Duran had added Simon Le Bon to their classic lineup. This had been at approximately the same time that I had graduated from high school.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Friday, 05/15/2015 @ 01:35am

Duran Duran deserves Induction for their Innovation,Influence, Longevity, and Musical Excellence. Elect Duran Duran for Nomination & Induction in 2016. KING

Posted by KING on Sunday, 05/17/2015 @ 22:17pm

The way that I see it, there are at least 7 additional reasons to induct Duran Duran into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame:

1. A body of studio albums which stand 3the test of time, e.g. "Duran Duran," "Rio," "Duran Duran (aka The Wedding Album)," "Astronaut," "All You Need Is Now and their unreleased 2015 album.

2. Ability to reproduce their songs, or improve upon them in a live setting, e.g. "A Diamond In The Mind."

3. Their ability to remain innovative and influential.

4. They have won numerous awards, both collectively and individually.

5. They have remained intact as a unit, while most of their contemporaries are either non-existent, or are primarily nostalgia acts.

6. Their ability to stay relevant, current, creative and not afraid to go in new directions and try new things.

7. Longevity expressed in their ability to attract a large audience, even after 35 years of performing.

I think that this elucidates the reasons why Duran Duran deserve immediate induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame.

7.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 05/23/2015 @ 04:57am

The way that I see it, there are at least 7 additional reasons to induct Duran Duran into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame:

1. A body of studio albums which stand 3the test of time, e.g. "Duran Duran," "Rio," "Duran Duran (aka The Wedding Album)," "Astronaut," "All You Need Is Now" and their yet untitled and unreleased 2015 album."

2. Their ability to reproduce their songs, or improve upon them in a live setting, e.g. "A Diamond In The Mind."

3. Their ability to remain innovative and influential.

4. They have won numerous prestigious awards, both collectively and individually.

5. They have remained intact as a unit, while most of their contemporaries are either non-existent, or are primarily relegated to being nostalgia acts.

6. Their ability to stay relevant, current, creative and not be afraid to go in new directions and try new things.

7. Longevity expressed in their ability to attract a large audience, even after 35 years of performing.

I think that this elucidates the reasons why Duran Duran deserve immediate induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 05/23/2015 @ 05:12am

The way that I see it, there are at least 7 additional reasons to induct Duran Duran into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame:

1. A body of studio albums which has stood the test of time, e.g. "Duran Duran," "Rio," "Duran Duran (aka The Wedding Album)," "Astronaut," "All You Need Is Now" and " their yet
untitled and unreleased 2015 album." In addition to possibly, "Seven And The Ragged Tiger," "Notorious," "Big Thing,". "Medazzaland" and "Red Carpet Massacre."

2. Their ability to reproduce their songs, or improve upon them in a live setting, e.g. "A Diamond In The Mind."

3. Their ability to remain innovative and influential.

4. They have won numerous prestigious awards, both collectively and individually.

5. They have remained intact as a unit, while most of their contemporaries are either non-existent, or are primarily relegated to being nostalgia acts.

6. Their ability to stay relevant, current, creative and not being afraid to go in new directions and try new things.

7. Longevity expressed in their ability to attract a large audience, even after 35 years of performing.

I think that this elucidates the many reasons why Duran Duran deserve immediate induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 05/23/2015 @ 05:24am

Good analysis on Duran Duran. I think the Wedding album puts them over the top for induction. Duran Duran, Rio, 7 and The Ragged Tiger were strong albums. They showed their talent with 2 side projects Arcadia and Power Station scoring more hits. I've sliced it 74 different ways and Duran Duran meets the RRHOF criteria better than most.
We have to remember some music critics panned Duran Duran Sad! A fad band! that they would fade when girls became women. That did not happen. Duran Duran continued to strengthen its fan base with strong music and timeless songs. Now the critics eat crow. Duran Duran HoF !!! KING . (ea. shouD l

Posted by KING on Saturday, 05/23/2015 @ 17:26pm

ENIG

Have 2 Questions For You on DD. Did you like the Duran Duran MTV Unplugged Show? I never saw that show. Must have been in 1993. I was in the military then.

Also, do you see Duran Duran as art rock/prog? Kind of a progression of David Bowie & Roxy Music with their own spin on things. KING

Posted by KING on Sunday, 05/24/2015 @ 04:34am

ENIG

Have 2 Questions For You on DD. Did you like the Duran Duran MTV Unplugged Show? I never saw that show. Must have been in 1993. I was in the military then.

Also, do you see Duran Duran as art rock/prog? Kind of a progression of David Bowie & Roxy Music with their own spin on things. KING

Posted by KING on Sunday, 05/24/2015 @ 04:39am

KING,

Unfortunately, I have never seen the Duran Duran MTV Unplugged Show either.

Yes, I see Duran Duran as a "crossover prog," or "art rock" band, more specifically a hybrid of pop rock and art rock.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 05/24/2015 @ 10:38am

Nearly 18 years ago, I had written this about Duran Duran:

"Why a page devoted to Duran Duran? An eighties teen idol group for girls? This wasn't really serious music that they had created; was it? It was danceable, but the very intelligent lyrics written by Simon Le Bon gave them a different type of danceable music! This group obviously liked to experiment with different styles. On some songs, the pop rhythms owe a great deal to ethnic music; others deal with acoustic interplay, some with soul, others with a more arty approach! Certainly this group consisted of musicians who had possessed the good looks of models, but their music was infectiously entertaining! Some of their best songs, e.g. 'Save A Prayer' from "Rio" and 'Ordinary World' have represented outstanding musicianship. Sure, they had relied upon synthesizers and yes, they had dominated "Music Television" in the early days,with their well-produced videos. However, their music owed more to the melodicism of Roxy Music & David Bowie (in fact, the vocals on 'New Moon On Monday' sound a great deal like David Bowie) and symphonic rock, "art rock/pop rock," etc. than just to the sound of the 1980's time period when New Wave artists predominated after the demise of punk."

With a few wording changes, that was what I had written about Duran Duran nearly 18 years ago.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Monday, 05/25/2015 @ 12:12pm

Great post Enigmaticus! I see Duran Duran like Rush as both groups continue to make interesting and excellent music 40 years. Duran Duran has outlived and outlasted most of their critics. What's left is the music. Nearly 40 years of great singing and amazing instrumentation. Nick Rhodes & John Taylor were always considered 2 of the best at their instruments. Duran Duran should be elected in 2016. They deserve the honor. KING

Posted by KING on Monday, 05/25/2015 @ 19:17pm

KING,

Thank you again for your support of Duran Duran.

Once again, the "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode featuring Duran Duran is scheduled to air on VH-1 Classic at 8:00 p.m. E.D.T. on Saturday June 6, 2015.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Tuesday, 05/26/2015 @ 09:43am

Think about it The Who, Nirvana,The Beatles, Duran Duran, Prince, Queen, The Eagles... Duran Duran doesn't seem out of place with these music industry giants and RRHOF. It's a quick test to see if a band is worthy of RRHOF. Duran Duran nearly 40 years of excellent music and deserving of the highest honor. Vote for Duran Duran 2015-2016 Induction. KING

Posted by KING on Thursday, 05/28/2015 @ 18:46pm

KING,

I really wish that more celebrities would openly voice their support for Duran Duran's long overdue Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame induction. Ten years beyond the 25 year mark is a really long time to wait.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 05/30/2015 @ 13:23pm

Enig- You do a rating for Pop Trash Duran Duran. I went to the DD concert at a smaller venue when that album was released. They played Playing With Uranium, Lava Lamp, Pop Trash and some others. I think Pop Trash was excellent album. There seems to be a good buzz for Duran Duran thanks to forums like this. I think Duran Duran should be nominated this year. However, groups like Deep Purple, King Crimson, Moody Blues, Roxy Music, Yes aren't in leaving me less hopeful. Can't wait for the nominations. They should break this logjam of quality candidates this year. KING

Posted by KING on Sunday, 05/31/2015 @ 16:25pm

Enig- You do a rating for Pop Trash Duran Duran. I went to the DD concert at a smaller venue when that album was released. They played Playing With Uranium, Lava Lamp, Pop Trash and some others. I think Pop Trash was excellent album. There seems to be a good buzz for Duran Duran thanks to forums like this. I think Duran Duran should be nominated this year. However, groups like Deep Purple, King Crimson, Moody Blues, Roxy Music, Yes aren't in leaving me less hopeful. Can't wait for the nominations. They should break this logjam of quality candidates this year. KING

Posted by KING on Sunday, 05/31/2015 @ 16:27pm

KING,

No, I am sorry but I have not yet listened to "Pop Trash." As far as Duran Duran's receiving a nomination is concerned, I think that there is a very good possibility that they will. Their record company is scheduled to release their highly anticipated 14th studio album in September. The band is continuing to put out quality albums and their most recent live recording, "A Diamond In The Mind," is a spectacular tour de force. Plus, their "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode has been airing very frequently on VH-1 Classic.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Monday, 06/1/2015 @ 08:56am

Great groups like Prince, REM, U2, Metallica pretty much made it 1st ballot so it's strange Duran Duran has yet to receive a nomination. It's now 10 years. What gives? I think it would be interesting to compare REM & Duran Duran. Why is REM more highly regarded than Duran Duran that they were put in right away? They could have put Duran Duran in year 3 nobody would have had a complaint about it. KING

Posted by KING on Monday, 06/1/2015 @ 19:51pm

I'm hoping Duran Duran and Moody Blues both get nominated and inducted 2015-2016 cycle. Roxy Music is another group that deserves induction. I think Duran Duran deserves RRHOF for some excellent studio albums Duran Duran, Rio,7 and The Ragged Tiger, The Wedding Album etc as well as musical excellence. Their longevity helps too as they continue to tour and write outstanding music. Man,these DD guys are legends. KING

Posted by KING on Tuesday, 06/2/2015 @ 16:40pm

Walked into my closet and into my time machine 1984-1985. The purpose to remember who were the biggest bands and singers of the time. A delightful experience for an hour. I returned and picked up pen and paper. Michael Jackson and Madonna were probably the biggest music stars with groups like Van Halen, Bruce,and Prince slightly behind. Duran Duran would be in next group with U2,Tom Petty,Def Leppard,The Police etc. U2 would later surpass Duran Duran when they made The Joshua Tree and Rattle and Hum later in the 80's. It's a short list to be sure. Janet Jackson, Guns N Roses, REM would explode onto scene later in the 80's with INXS Kick as another group. In the earlier list, MJ, Madonna,Van Halen, Bruce, and Prince are all in RRHOF. Groups like The Police, Tom Petty, REM, U2 who Duran Duran was with top at the charts all in RRHOF. It makes you wonder why Duran Duran was overlooked when all these bands were inducted. Duran Duran has all the criteria needed for RRHOF. Influence, Innovation, Longevity, Musical Excellence. Def Leppard another deserving band as well. KING

Posted by KING on Friday, 06/5/2015 @ 15:52pm

Happy Birthday Nick June 8 and hoping Duran Duran receive nomination and induction this year 2015 RRHOF. Maybe this will be the year. Thanks to Enigmaticus and others for supporting Duran Duran. KING

Posted by KING on Sunday, 06/7/2015 @ 19:13pm

Once again, the "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode featuring Duran Duran is scheduled to be aired on Friday June 19, 2015 at 7:00 p.m. on VH-1 Classic.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 06/14/2015 @ 01:17am

ENIG

Do you see any Fleetwood Mac influence on Duran Duran's music or any music similarities between Fleetwood Mac music and Duran Duran?

Both have good fan bases and outstanding longevity. Really hoping Duran Duran receives a nomination. KING

Posted by KING on Monday, 06/15/2015 @ 22:58pm

KING,

I am sorry, but I do not know of any Fleetwood Mac influence upon Duran Duran. However, no band exists entirely within a vacuum.

I do however see more of a similarity between several albums from Rush's "Early Modern Period" and "Middle Modern Period" to Duran Duran's masterpiece "Duran Duran (1993) and even "Astronaut." This is not surprising since Rush had sought out a "pop" producer, aka Peter Collins at that time. They had also sought out producer Rupert Hine for two of their best studio albums, "Presto" and "Roll The Bones."

Posted by Enigmaticus on Tuesday, 06/16/2015 @ 09:50am

For those of you who are interested, once again the "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode featuring Duran Duran is scheduled to air at 7 p.m. E.D.T. on VH1 Classic.

In my opinion, the frequency of these airings is not accidental. It signals to me, the desire to nominate Duran Duran for induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame.

In my honest opinion, both Duran Duran and Rush had been long overdue for induction. Rush had waited fifteen years since becoming first eligible for induction and Duran Duran has waited 10 additional years, since being first eligible for induction.

In my opinion, the Hall Of Fame was created in order to recognize those artists who have left a legacy of musical excellence. I think that Duran Duran has that in spades! What do you think?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Thursday, 06/18/2015 @ 22:54pm

Once again, the "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode featuring Duran Duran is scheduled to air tomorrow evening June 19, 2015 @ 7 p.m. E.D.T. on VH1 Classic.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Thursday, 06/18/2015 @ 23:00pm

ENIGMATICUS

There is no justification for Duran Duran exclusion from RRHOF. The brilliant Rio, Wedding Album, Pop Trash, & Seven and the Ragged Tiger should be plenty for induction. It helps Duran Duran that KISS and Rush have been inducted recently. They had vocal fan bases and now maybe music fans will throw their support to DD, The Cure, Moody Blues, Chicago, XTC, Scorpions, Def Leppard, Bryan Adams, and other deserving artists. I'm hoping Duran Duran gets nominated and inducted 2016. They are definitely deserving. KING

Posted by KING on Friday, 06/19/2015 @ 03:03am

KING,

I could not possibly agree more. The highly anticipated release of "Paper Gods" on September 18, 2015 should garner Duran Duran a nomination for induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 06/20/2015 @ 06:40am

Enigmaticus: Personally, I hope that album merely gets their foot in the door at minimum. If they fail to get it this year (or whenever they finally appear on the ballot), they'll have the benefit of a previous nomination to go from.

I really do like Duran Duran and would love to see them in. Hopefully, they'll pull at least a nomination so that when the 90s voting comes in, they'll have their name on the backlog available to build from.

(P.S.: Might as well breach a question while I'm here. People consider Thank You to be one of the worst cover albums and even one of the worst albums ever made. With Lou Reed having been inducted despite Metal Machine Music receiving similar "accolades", do you think any stigma (if any exists) from Thank You's reviews may no longer be of consequence when it comes to them getting in? It's interesting that Reed considered their version of Perfect Day the best cover of the song he'd heard.)

Posted by SotN on Saturday, 06/20/2015 @ 07:15am

SotN,

I actually liked "Thank You." I admire Duran Duran's audacity to do a cover's album. Both Led Zeppelin and Lou Reed had praised their cover versions.

As far as those albums which, in my honest opinion, are masterpieces by Duran Duran, I offer this list:

Duran Duran
Rio
Duran Duran (aka "The Wedding Album")
Astronaut
All You Need Is Now
A Diamond In The Mind
Paper Gods

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 06/20/2015 @ 07:56am

Would be very surprised if Duran Duran doesn't receive a nomination. A Diamond In The Mind was outstanding and showcased the brilliance of Duran Duran. These guys would easily be on my 3rd Tier RRHOF pyramid. They've done everything and back again. Paper Gods should solidify a RRHOF nomination. As more groups receive induction, Duran Duran stands out as a notable omission. Like to see Roxy Music, Procol Harum, and Moody Blues receive nomination too. KING

Posted by KING on Sunday, 07/12/2015 @ 01:59am

Would be very surprised if Duran Duran doesn't receive a nomination. A Diamond In The Mind was outstanding and showcased the brilliance of Duran Duran. These guys would easily be on my 3rd Tier RRHOF pyramid. They've done everything and back again. Paper Gods should solidify a RRHOF nomination. As more groups receive induction, Duran Duran stands out as a notable omission. Like to see Roxy Music, Procol Harum, and Moody Blues receive nomination too. KING

Posted by KING on Sunday, 07/12/2015 @ 02:01am

KING,

I agree that "A Diamond In The Mind," Duran Duran's latest live presentation should garner them a nomination for induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame. I also agree that their new album, "Paper Gods," should insure them an induction into the Hall Of Fame next year.

As far as the other artists whom I think will be inducted next year is concerned, I think that Yes will be inducted, along with The Moody Blues, Carly Simon, Sade, Foreigner and The Doobie Brothers. The other artist who I think has another possibility of receiving a nomination would be E. L. O., or more specifically, Jeff Lynne.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 07/12/2015 @ 02:32am

ENIGMATICUS

You have made strong points on ELO & Jeff Lynne. That Musical Excellence award is ideal for talented musicians like Brian Eno and Jeff Lynne. Carly Simon is an interesting case. She had a nice catalog of hits and is easy on the eyes. Her look just does it for me. Pat Benatar the perfect female candidate this year. She rocked and had stronger hits than Joan Jett.

On Duran Duran---Man, these guys are legends. I would think if you asked 50 Random people if Duran Duran was in RRHOF...35 would say they were already inducted. That's part of the problem. Some of these groups like Chicago, Roxy Music,Steve Miler etc people think they are already inducted. That's why I love Future Rock Legends. It gives a voice to the fans. Also helps keep deserving bands alive in discussion. Thanks Enigmaticus what you have done explaining Duran Duran's case. It is convincing. Duran Duran has to be one of the greatest groups ever assembled and I would say all time. KING

Posted by KING on Sunday, 07/12/2015 @ 02:58am

I still don't know what Duran Duran has to earn a nomination. They were at the Top of the 80's charts with Bruce, Madonna,MJ, Prince, Van Halen, U2. All of those groups are in RRHOF. They made the excellent Duran Duran, Rio, 7 and the Ragged Tiger, Wedding Album, Pop Trash, etc. They have influenced many groups with their dress, style, and music but can't be duplicated. Diamond in the Mind excellent as well. I'm hoping 2015 they earn a nomination. They have earned the RRHOF better than most. KING

Posted by KING on Monday, 07/13/2015 @ 02:27am

Right now, they have to wait for September to roll around. The committee isn't going to meet every week just to make sure that Duran Duran gets nominated just to placate you and Enig.

Posted by Philip on Monday, 07/13/2015 @ 12:06pm

Philip

I've heard no convincing argument against Duran Duran induction. They should have been elected 5 years ago. It's a notable omission and must be corrected. Enigmaticus deserves support and has presented volumes of evidence in defense of Duran Duran. Strength in numbers is important. The KISS fans & Rush fan contingency deluged the committee with letters and petitions and things. Maybe, that helped in their induction though both KISS and Rush should have been elected years earlier on their influence and impact on music.

I've commented on several of my FAV groups on Future Rock Legends:Bryan Adams, Def Leppard, Scorpions, The Cure etc but right now Duran Duran seems to be the biggest snub. I'd also hope Peter,Paul & Mary, Quicksilver Messenger Service, The Guess Who, Procol Harum receives a nomination and future induction. I'm thankful for this forum and hope in some small way pushes Duran Duran to induction RRHOF. KING

Posted by KING on Monday, 07/13/2015 @ 20:10pm

KING,

You missed the point of my post. Philip

Posted by Philip on Monday, 07/13/2015 @ 22:40pm

Once again, the "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode featuring Duran Duran is scheduled to air on VH1 Classic on Wednesday July 22, 2015 @ 2 a.m. E.D.T.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Friday, 07/17/2015 @ 01:12am

The Reflex-flex-flex-flex-flex!

Posted by Carl on Saturday, 07/18/2015 @ 00:04am

For those of you who are interested: once again, the "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode featuring Duran Duran is scheduled to air on Wednesday July 22, 2015 @ 2 a.m. E.D.T. on VH-1 Classic.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Tuesday, 07/21/2015 @ 05:14am

Getting closer to August and RRHOF nominations soon after. Duran Duran should be 1 of 30-40 groups considered for 1 of the 15 nomination slots. Duran Duran's illustrious albums and longevity should be enough to earn a nomination. They have done everything a legendary band should. Sold out concerts, important Live Aid concert, the excellent Rio, Duran Duran, & Wedding albums. Musical excellence and pioneer of exotic location video. Sold millions of CD's and singles. I'm hoping Paper Gods puts them over the top. What do you think of Duran Duran's chances 2015? KING

Posted by KING on Wednesday, 07/22/2015 @ 21:45pm

KING,

I thoroughly expect to see Duran Duran not only nominated later this year, but also inducted next year, along with Yes, The Moody Blues, Electric Light Orchestra, Sade, Carly Simon, Doobie Brothers and Foreigner.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Thursday, 07/23/2015 @ 04:25am

I have been an active supporter of Duran Duran's induction for nearly 3 consecutive years and a passive supporter of Duran Duran's music for more than 3 decades. So why do I appreciate this band's music so much over most of the bands of their era? For one particular reason, because Duran Duran had continued to progress musically and not rest on their laurels. As far as I am concerned, Duran Duran is the ultimate "art rock" group. Their greatest legacy might be that they are, in my opinion, the band that Roxy Music could have and should have become. Other than Roxy's brilliant albums, "Country Life" and "Avalon," their output is not quite as appealing to me as that of Duran Duran.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Thursday, 07/23/2015 @ 04:50am

duran duran a good group but are they the stones, floyd, the beatles, queen, the who NO they are not of that caliber the Rock Hall of Fame should be for the greatest bands immortals say PJ Radiohead Alice In Chains fit the bill my objection would be duran duran has heavy use of synthesizer and other instruments that doesn't remind me of the classic rock sound of petty, mellencamp, bruce sure dd might sneak in the hall on criteria of popularity and influence won't boycott hall if dd makes it though like to see chicago and journey make it hall Chicago bands deserve more recognition

Posted by vick on Thursday, 07/30/2015 @ 23:50pm

Once again, the "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode featuring Duran Duran is scheduled to air on Wednesday August 5, 2015 @ 7 p.m. E.D.T. on VH-1 Classic.

Actually Vick, I disagree with you completely. Duran Duran is of the caliber of those aforementioned bands.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 08/2/2015 @ 20:22pm

Enigmaticus,
I like Duran Duran as much as the next guy (and support them receiving a nomination and eventual induction) but come on, if you think they are on the same level as the Rolling Stones, Pink Floyd, The Beatles, and The Who, I strongly, strongly disagree with you. Put your fandom aside for a minute, all 4 of the bands Vick mentioned were "game-changers," icons and innovators in rock music. They all took creative risks and pioneered/defined styles, genres, and movements of rock music, Duran Duran, while a great New Wave band, should not be compared to those 4 bands.
Very, very few bands are on that caliber, even many of the acts that are in the Rock Hall where their influence is so vast and impactful (beyond the music itself and into the realms of popular culture).

What makes the case for Duran Duran is 2 things: they are among the earliest bands/acts that defined MTV (and televisual representations of music) and more importantly they have a large number of hits (impossible to ignore even by Rock Hall standards). I think Duran Duran will get in the Rock Hall for similar reasons to that of Hall & Oates: too many hits to ignore and a consistently good band that's liked by the masses (not as much of a critic's darling). Plus, the Rock Hall's new emphasis on 80s and 90s bands only dramatically increases their chances of a nomination.

Also, why do you feel the need to mention every other week that there's upcoming viewings of Duran Duran's Behind the Music on VH1? Seems kinda reads like a DVR-reminder every time I read these posts.

Posted by Nick on Sunday, 08/2/2015 @ 20:53pm

kid-seems like you are trying to convince yourself and others that dd rock hall great i see duran duran as more pop and new wave groups like the cars talking heads blondie were on the first tier new wave before dd don't see how they invented genre roxy music and bowie came before dd and influenced dd will agree that they had some hits and popularity groups like chicago and bon jovi had popularity and hits but not in hall maybe you are right and they do get nominated but there are several groups from chicago area that deserve to be in as well

Posted by vick on Sunday, 08/2/2015 @ 21:00pm

Vick, is your comment directed to me or Enigmaticus? Just wondering.

Posted by Nick on Sunday, 08/2/2015 @ 21:08pm

nick

Sorry nick directed to the enigmaticus one was reading that guy and his dd posts he could be a good lawyer makes some strong points for duran duran have to review some of my dd albums could be im missing something

Posted by vick on Sunday, 08/2/2015 @ 21:35pm

Nick,

I certainly can understand where you are coming from. What I had meant that to say that Duran Duran deserves to be in the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame as much as or perhaps more than Pearl Jam, Radiohead, Alice in Chains, Smashing Pumpkins, etc. You may not think that Duran Duran is of the same caliber as the Rolling Stones, The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, The Who, or Queen, and you are certainly entitled to your opinion, but Duran Duran has written great songs for nearly 35 consecutive years and that is quite an accomplishment in and of itself. I am not saying that every single song on every Duran Duran album is great either, but they are certainly more consistent than many previous Hall inductees. Now, I am not entirely certain whether Duran Duran is really a "new wave" band, because they were greatly influenced by such artists as Roxy Music, David Bowie and The Velvet Underground. I would be inclined to call them an "art rock" band instead, and as such their sound is much closer to "prog," than it is to "new wave."

The accompaniment of string ensembles, or orchestras, in order to improve the overall sound of a recording has been widely used by various Rock music artists since the mid 1960's. Such artists as The Moody Blues, Yes and Rush frequently add orchestral accompaniment to their sound. Duran Duran has also used orchestral accompaniment on quite a few of their recordings as well, most notably on several songs on "Astronaut" and "All You Need Is Now."

The fact that Duran Duran has constantly sought out new musical styles is a testimony to the diversity of the catalog. Duran Duran have also improved tremendously by playing their music live in a concert setting. In fact their most recent live offering, "A Diamond In The Mind: Live 2011" is a masterpiece and testament to the greatness of this long overlooked and under appreciated group.


Does Duran Duran deserve to be in the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame, absolutely!

Posted by Enigmaticus on Monday, 08/3/2015 @ 03:09am

Nick,

I certainly can understand where you are coming from. What I had meant that to say that Duran Duran deserves to be in the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame as much as or perhaps more than Pearl Jam, Radiohead, Alice in Chains, Smashing Pumpkins, etc. You may not think that Duran Duran is of the same caliber as the Rolling Stones, The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, The Who, or Queen, and you are certainly entitled to your opinion, but Duran Duran has written great songs for nearly 35 consecutive years and that is quite an accomplishment in and of itself. I am not saying that every single song on every Duran Duran album is great either, but they are certainly more consistent than many previous Hall inductees. Now, I am not entirely certain whether Duran Duran is really a "new wave" band, because they were greatly influenced by such artists as Roxy Music, David Bowie and The Velvet Underground. I would be inclined to call them an "art rock" band instead, and as such their sound is much closer to "prog," than it is to "new wave."

The accompaniment of string ensembles, or orchestras, in order to improve the overall sound of a recording has been widely used by various Rock music artists since the mid 1960's. Such artists as The Moody Blues, Yes and Rush frequently add orchestral accompaniment to their sound. Duran Duran has also used orchestral accompaniment on quite a few of their recordings as well, most notably on several songs on "Astronaut" and "All You Need Is Now."

The fact that Duran Duran has constantly sought out new musical styles is a testimony to the diversity of the catalog. Duran Duran have also improved tremendously by playing their music live in a concert setting. In fact their most recent live offering, "A Diamond In The Mind: Live 2011" is a masterpiece and testament to the greatness of this long overlooked and under appreciated group.


Does Duran Duran deserve to be in the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame, absolutely!

Posted by Enigmaticus on Monday, 08/3/2015 @ 03:09am

Nick,

I certainly can understand where you are coming from. What I had meant that to say was that Duran Duran deserves to be in the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame as much as or perhaps more than Pearl Jam, Radiohead, Alice in Chains, Smashing Pumpkins, etc. You may not think that Duran Duran is of the same caliber as the Rolling Stones, The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, The Who, or Queen, and you are certainly entitled to your opinion, but Duran Duran has written great songs for nearly 35 consecutive years and that is quite an accomplishment in and of itself. I am not saying that every single song on every Duran Duran album is great either, but they are certainly more consistent than many previous Hall inductees. Now, I am not entirely certain whether or not Duran Duran is really a "new wave" band, because they were greatly influenced by such artists as: Roxy Music, David Bowie and The Velvet Underground, in addition to others. I would be more inclined to call them an "art rock" band instead, and as such their sound is much closer to "prog," than it is to "new wave."

The accompaniment of string ensembles, or orchestras, in order to improve the overall sound of a recording has been
widely utilized by various Rock music artists since the mid 1960's. Such artists as: The Moody Blues, Yes and Rush have frequently added orchestral accompaniments to their sound.

Duran Duran has also used orchestral accompaniment on
quite a few of their recordings as well, most notably on several
songs on "Astronaut" and "All You Need Is Now."

The fact that Duran Duran has constantly sought out new avenues of expression, as well as new musical styles is a testimony to the diversity of their catalog. Duran Duran have also improved tremendously by playing their music live in a concert setting. In fact their most recent live offering, "A Diamond In The Mind: Live 2011" is a masterpiece and testament to the greatness of this long overlooked and under appreciated group.


Does Duran Duran deserve to be in the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame? absolutely!

Posted by Enigmaticus on Monday, 08/3/2015 @ 03:24am

What I had meant that to say was that Duran Duran deserves to be in the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame as much as or perhaps more than Pearl Jam, Radiohead, Alice in Chains, Smashing Pumpkins, etc.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Monday, 08.3.15 @ 03:24am
--------------------------------------------------
Enig - Normally I agree w/a lot of what you say. Here, however, I most definitely disagree. There's no way DD deserves the Hall over Pearl Jam, AIC, the Pumpkins, etc.

Duran Duran was a very good POP group. PJ, Alice, etc. are Rock. There is a diff. The diff. between those groups and Duran Duran is the same a s the diff. between DD and Rush, for example. Rush sits alongside Pearl Jam, Alice, the Pumpkins, as rock. As such, they should've been in, & their induction is heartily cheered by myself, among many others.

I'd put Duran Duran in, as the Hall has already placed many pop acts in, under the guise of "rock". However, I'd hold for many of the other acts you listed as being far more worthy, at least from a rock sense. :)

Posted by Cheesecrop on Monday, 08/3/2015 @ 19:48pm

Enigmaticus

Definitely Duran Duran should make the RRHOF. They have consistent greatness and have taken risks with different styles of music. I think the success of side projects Arcadia and Power Station shows Duran Duran was a talented band. Duran Duran has multiple chances to make RRHOF since they fit into Art Rock, New Wave, Pop, and some other genres. Duran Duran might not be inducted this year but certainly by 2020. I would like to hear Duran Duran detractors state why DD should not be inducted. I've been searching for a few yes now and I can't find a hole in their resume. Keep up the fight for Duran Duran Enigmaticus!KING

Posted by KING on Monday, 08/3/2015 @ 21:31pm

KING,

Thank you for your ongoing support of Duran Duran. I do think however that their new album, "Paper Gods" will put them over the top. They should finally receive a nomination later this year and an induction next year, along with such artists as: Yes, The Moody Blues, Sade and Carly Simon and possibly, Electric Light Orchestra, or Jeff Lynne, Foreigner and The Doobie Brothers. Bernie Taupin should be inducted as a songwriter and Nile Rodgers and Brian Eno should receive the Ahmet Ertegun Lifetime Achievement Award.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 08/9/2015 @ 17:53pm

Next month, Duran Duran will release it's highly anticipated 14th studio album, "Paper Gods." I have been looking forward to this album for more than three years. By the way, I am also looking forward to the release of 'Reportage,' as well.

In the meantime, I have ordered the "String Quartet Tribute to Duran Duran." When "Exit.. Stage Right: The String Quartet Tribute to Rush" was released, I had purchased several copies of it.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 08/15/2015 @ 11:10am

It's a no, pumpkin.

Posted by marissa on Saturday, 08/15/2015 @ 11:51am

And a long-winded response from Enigmaticus and KIng on Marissa's comment against Duran Duran will come in 5-4-3-2-1...

Posted by Nick on Saturday, 08/15/2015 @ 13:59pm

Duran Duran deserves immediate induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 08/15/2015 @ 16:56pm

Duran Duran should have been inducted 5 years ago. Think of the big 80's bands. U2, Prince, Bruce, MJ, Van Halen etc. They have all been inducted. Duran Duran should be next. Innovative & Influential and continue to drop new albums and making music. Duran Duran is no nostalgia band. They play packed shows. For the record, I have stated Janet Jackson should be inducted as well as Bryan Adams, Scorpions, Peter Paul & Mary, Judas Priest,The Guess Who, Moody Blues and several other bands. Enig is right in his support of Duran Duran RRHOF and I think they should be inducted as well. KING

Posted by KING on Saturday, 08/15/2015 @ 19:21pm

KING,

I will not disagree with you about Duran Duran being overdue for induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame. I am also actively supporting the inductions of The Moody Blues, Yes, Sade and Carly Simon.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 08/15/2015 @ 21:42pm

Once again, the "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode featuring Duran Duran is scheduled to air on VH-1 Classic on Friday August 20, 2015 at 11 p.m. E.D.T.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 08/15/2015 @ 22:38pm

My interest in the music of Duran Duran goes almost as far back as my appreciation of Rush's music and the rest of "progressive rock," as well.

I was 16 years old when the original version of Duran Duran had formed. I was 18 years old when Simon Le Bon had joined Duran Duran. I was 20 years old when I had first discovered the music of Duran Duran. I was 20 years1 old when Duran Duran had released "Rio." I was 22 years old when I had purchased my first Duran Duran album, "Arena."

I was 31 years old when Duran Duran had released "Duran Duran (aka 'The Wedding Album.')" I was 35 years old when I had started building my now long-archived "Art Rock" website. I was 42 years old when I had rediscovered Duran Duran via "Astronaut." I was 48 years old when Duran Duran had released "All You Need Is Now." I was 51 years old when I had purchased "A Diamond In The Mind: 2011 Live" on BluRay.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 08/16/2015 @ 05:11am

I think Duran Duran deserves a nomination 2015 RRHOF for their musical excellence and totality of work. As Enig as stated on numerous posts, DD is more than deserving. Still shaking my head how Duran Duran is not in HOF! Hungry Like The Wolf, Save A Prayer, View To A Kill, Union Of The Snake, Planet Earth. Several game changing 80's songs.

Just about every new wave or pop band has ripped off Duran Duran in music style, look, or dress and has been a pale imitation to the Masters. Simon LeBon still can hit high notes and powerful range. One of the most underrated singers with Paul Stanley Kiss.
The funny thing is Duran Duran keeps getting better in their mid 50's while many musicians have quit,retired or are permanently living in a cemetery from addictions and whatnot. Duran Duran is one of the best 10 groups in history and that makes them RRHOF to me. KING

Posted by KING on Sunday, 08/16/2015 @ 23:50pm

KING,

Thank you. I could not possibly agree more. In my honest opinion, Duran Duran is definitely one of the greatest bands of all time.

For those of you, who are interested- the "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode featuring Duran Duran is once again scheduled to air on Thursday August 20, 2015 at 11 p.m. E.D.T.

With their highly anticipated new recording, "Paper Gods" being released next month, their previous live masterwork, "A Diamond In The Mind: Live 2011" and their consistent level of excellence and influence for over 35 years, Duran Duran has shown that they have remained a relevant band. At this point, receiving a nomination and an induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame in 2016 should not only
be well deserved, but it should be assured.

I have no doubt whatsoever that "Paper Gods" will be another masterpiece. Here is my list of essential Duran Duran recordings, thus far:

01. Duran Duran (1981)
02. Rio (1982)
03. Duran Duran aka 'The Wedding Album' (1993)
04. Astronaut (2004)
05. All You Need Is Now (2010)
06. A Diamond In The Mind (2011)
07. Paper Gods (2015)

Posted by Enigmaticus on Monday, 08/17/2015 @ 13:38pm

Enigmaticus

Great Duran Duran post Enig. Say I was a young Duran Duran fan 12 or 13. I'd probably start with The Wedding Album. So many great songs Come Undone, Too Much Information, Ordinary World. Rio would be a nice place to start too. Rio was a classic song plus it is DD most heralded album by most critics.

I'm a big fan of Pop Trash. It has a harder sound than most DD but some killer songs. Playing With Uranium, Starting To Remember, the epic Pop Trash song.

Thanks for the other Duran Duran supporters on the site. I'm looking forward to a DD nomination in October. Not a 1 trick pony. Also support The Cure, Scorpions, Judas Priest, Moody Blues, Janet Jackson, The Guess Who, The Association, The Spinners, Bryan Adams,Peter Paul & Mary and several other bands in their RRHOF inductions someday.

Posted by KING on Monday, 08/17/2015 @ 16:28pm

KING,

Thank you for your continuing support of Duran Duran. I was 20 years old when I had first seen their videos on TBS's Night Tracks. I would agree that 'The Wedding Album' would probably be a good place to start for introducing Duran Duran to a younger person. I think that "A Diamond In The Mind" would be a great place to start when introducing someone in their 30's or older, to Duran Duran's music. I have still been slightly hesitant to listen to "Seven And The Ragged Tiger," "Notorious," "Liberty," "Big Thing," "Medazzaland," "Pop Trash" and "Red Carpet Massacre." I may end up doing so after I purchase "Paper Gods" next month.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Monday, 08/17/2015 @ 19:58pm

KING,

Thank you for mentioning "Pop Trash," I had decided to listen to it on my cd player yesterday. There are quite a few tracks that I have enjoyed, especially 'Xanax' and 'Pop Trash Movie.'

Posted by Enigmaticus on Friday, 08/21/2015 @ 05:51am

Song 'One of Those Days' is a fine track. have it on my iPod.

Posted by Paul in KY on Friday, 08/21/2015 @ 07:21am

KING,

Actually "Pop Trash" is a pretty good Duran Duran album. After listening to it 3 or 4 times, I would be inclined to give it a three and a half star rating. It is not quite as extraordinary as "Rio," "Duran Duran" (1993) aka 'The Wedding Album, "Astronaut," "All You Need Is Now," or "A Diamond In The Mind: Live 2011," but it does have a few great songs, most notably 'Someone Else Not Me,' 'Pop Trash Movie,' 'Lady Xanax,' 'The Sun Doesn't Shine Forever' and 'Lava Lamp.'

Posted by Enigmaticus on Friday, 08/21/2015 @ 13:03pm

Enigmaticus

Glad that you enjoyed The Pop Trash CD. It is very good from start to finish. Has a louder sound than most DD albums. Pop Trash is a beautiful masterpiece. Playing With Uranium one of my FAV's. Saw this DD Pop Trash Show at a small venue. Must have been 97 or 98. They played Lava Lamp, Playing With Uranium, Starting To Remember... Most of the songs off Pop Trash and a few older songs. My sister got DD tickets somehow. It was a very good show. Remember their was a fireworks show nearby and Simon pointed up to the sky.
I'm hoping it's Duran Duran's year but your Prog groups should have an induction whether Yes or Moody Blues. Great discussion on The Spinners, Janet Jackson, DD, and other possible nominees on FRL. KING

Posted by KING on Friday, 08/21/2015 @ 14:54pm

My most recent Duran Duran type purchases have been the extended version of "Rio" and the String Quartet Tribute to Duran Duran. I still have quite a few older Duran Duran albums to listen to. My next choice will probably be "Medazzaland."

Posted by Enigaticus on Saturday, 08/22/2015 @ 00:28am

I'm praying it's Duran Duran's year for induction. 2015-2016 looks better. I would think the aliens play Duran Duran in their UFO's or their assorted crafts. They would know good music.

Listening to The Wedding Album & Pop Trash over the weekend has made it even more apparent that Duran Duran deserves RRHOF. Taking Duran Duran in its totality, Top 40 hits,albums or units sold, sold out concerts, their good looks, exotic sound, longevity, and 3 important criteria:Influence, Innovation, and Musical Excellence I can't name 5 bands more deserving RRHOF than Duran Duran. They put The Pretenders & Elvis Costello in Hall 1st ballot. Duran Duran had more hits and records sold than those groups combined. KING

Posted by KING on Monday, 08/24/2015 @ 05:20am

KING,

I have been watching portions of "A Diamond In The Mind" on BluRay and "Classic Albums: Rio" on DVD during the past two days. I had wanted to reiterate that drummer Roger Taylor had referred to Duran Duran as a rock band and even Bob Geldof had spoken about how Duran Duran were marginalized in their early days, "... because they were such pop dollies.." As I had said over 3 years ago when I had first posting on this blog that Rush would be next, I am now predicting that the time is now right for Duran Duran. Their recent work has made them vibrant and contemporary, the situation has now started to reach critical mass; it is now time for Duran Duran to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame. Now, the question is who will induct them? Oh by the way Ben, Thank you for your support of Duran Duran, also.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Monday, 08/24/2015 @ 09:19am

KING,

I have been watching portions of "A Diamond In The Mind" on BluRay and "Classic Albums: Rio" on DVD during the past two days. I had wanted to reiterate that drummer Roger Taylor had referred to Duran Duran as a rock band and even Bob Geldof had spoken about how Duran Duran were marginalized in their early days, "... because they were such pop dollies.." As I had said over 3 years ago when I had first started posting on this blog that Rush would be next, I am now predicting that the time is now right for Duran Duran. Their recent work has made them vibrant and contemporary, the situation has now started to reach critical mass; it is now time for Duran Duran to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame. Now, the question is who will induct them? Oh by the way Ben, Thank you for your support of Duran Duran, also.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Monday, 08/24/2015 @ 09:58am

If you had asked me back in 1984, what two bands from the art rock and progressive rock genres would still be in existence in 2014, I would have said Duran Duran and Rush.

Duran Duran is 37 years old, 10 years younger than Rush. Nonetheless, they both have "progressive rock" in their blood. A recent quote from John Taylor states that, "In the original blueprint for the band, there was this dark, slightly progressive side to us."

Posted by Enigmaticus on Thursday, 08/27/2015 @ 10:03am

Was surfing the music videos and found Notorious. Outstanding song! My sister loved that song. Duran Duran has delivered hits in the 80's, 90's, 2000's. I think music critics and writers underestimated Duran's creativity and love of music. It's probably what's keeping Duran Duran from induction now. There's still some in the music industry that wrote disparaging columns and reviews on Duran. That they were a fad band,would not last 5 years, a teeny bobbers band etc. Duran Duran 37 years and still going strong. Making exciting music in 2015 and beyond.
With the new CD Paper Gods, Duran Duran has placed a punctuation mark on an already RRHOF career. It's an injustice Duran Duran has yet to be considered when they were one of the 80's biggest bands and are more deserving than bands already inducted. Time for all those music critics and writers to admit they were wrong about Duran Duran. DD for Induction 2015-2016!!! KINg

Posted by KING on Thursday, 08/27/2015 @ 21:48pm

KING,

Thank you for supporting Duran Duran. I think that the media's criticism of the band has changed in recent years. I do not think that their earlier works have been dismissed as much as they had been previously. I also think that John Taylor's most recent statement about Duran Duran always having had a dark, progressive side helps to explain their longevity. Generally speaking, many "progressive rock" bands have had very long careers, Pink Floyd had been in existence for nearly 50 years. The Moody Blues are approaching their 49th year as a "progressive rock" band. Yes and Rush are both 47 years old. Styx is 43 years old. E.L.O. is 43 years old. Kansas has been in existence for 42 years. Duran Duran is 37 years old. Longevity appears to be part of the DNA of "art rock/progressive rock" bands.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Friday, 08/28/2015 @ 06:51am

Enig
You make a good point how Duran Duran and how they use strings and orchestration in their music. I can hear it in Ordinary World, Pop Trash etc. I think DD was very creative in making a cacaphony of sounds to entrance the listener. The music is sometimes exotic in Hungry Like The Wolf or captures beauty in Ordinary World. DD continues to evolve while other groups have been buried in the music junkyard. Forgotten as years roll on...Can't wait to see DD name for nomination. KING

Posted by KING on Friday, 08/28/2015 @ 15:38pm

KING,

I still think that Duran Duran's new album, "Paper Gods" has given them a huge advantage over other potential nominees. The fact that Duran Duran has still been going strong, releasing their 14th studio album has been nothing short of astounding. Another art rock group had released another masterpiece for their 14th studio album. That album was "Roll The Bones" and that artist was Rush. Afterwards, everyone had finally seemed to take notice and Rush had started to win a plethora of prestigious awards. Induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame had still eluded them for more than another decade. Of course, that was nearly 24 years ago.

However, I do not think that Duran Duran will suffer the same fate. This album, along with their most recent live presentation, "A Diamond In The Mind" should finally garner them them that nomination. Then, it will be up to the voting body to decide whether they will be inducted in 2016.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Friday, 08/28/2015 @ 15:49pm

Thank you to John Taylor, for acknowledging what most of the us have already suspected about Duran Duran. Duran Duran is unabashedly prog. Now many of us understand why we have been able to enjoy your music for more than 3 decades. You have also confirmed what I had stated on my Duran Duran webpage 18 years ago, that Duran Duran is a hybrid of "art rock" and pop. Now, it all makes sense somehow! PROG Magazine needs to feature Duran Duran on the cover.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 08/29/2015 @ 06:30am

Duran Duran is one of a kind. They refuse to be placed in a neat rectangular box. Like Stone Temple Pilots and U2, Duran Duran continues to musically evolve and put out excellent CD's. You can't fake it for 37 years. Duran Duran would have been unmasked 25 years ago if they weren't any good. They should have been placed in the RRHOF for Rio & The Wedding Album alone but have several other outstanding albums. The number of hit Duran Duran songs dwarfs most groups output. Simon & the team just goes about their business making excellent music and touring. DD continues to knock on the door of Musical Excellence RRHOF. Have to let them in sometime. KING

Posted by KING on Wednesday, 09/2/2015 @ 02:07am

KING,

I could not possibly agree more. I feel that it is now Duran Duran's time to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame. Duran Duran has far too many superlatives to mention in one sitting. There was always something different about them. They have not rested on their laurels and they have been eager to experiment with new styles.

1. They are influential.
2. The are innovative.
3. Their work stands the test of time.
4. They have remained consistent for decades.
5. They have always been interested in putting out their best possible work.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Wednesday, 09/2/2015 @ 09:38am

ENIGMATICUS
Great DD post as usual. Did something different today. Put on my 6 CD changer and listened to 10 random 10 Duran Duran songs. Girls On Film led off a Classic DD song. Next was Serious. This was a little gem most people don't know. Good singing and beat. To Pop Trash A KING FAV with orchestral backing and excellent singing by Simon. By the time the CD Changer played Song #10 Too Much Information an upbeat number on Wedding Album, I'm thinking that's 10 hit songs.
Making & writing hit songs not easy as it looks. Some of the RRHOF groups only had 1 or 2 big hits. Duran Duran easily goes 20-30 deep and beyond. Can't see any reason DD should be excluded this year. It would be an injustice.
Another strong 5 years and I can see Duran Duran on Level 4 of the RRHOF pyramid. These guys having a Rolling Stones type longevity and keep getting better musically with age. Simple exercise. Is Duran Duran more deserving RRHOF than:1.Survivor 2.ELO 3.Alphaville 4.The Cars 5.Quiet Riot 6.YES 7.Culture Club 8.Journey 9.King's X 10.Anthrax KING

Posted by KING on Wednesday, 09/2/2015 @ 20:21pm

KING,

Thank you once again for your support of Duran Duran. As far as listening to Duran Duran cd's is concerned, I had been listening to "Pop Trash" more recently. I am really looking forward to the release of "Paper Gods" next Friday. I will agree that Duran Duran deserves to be on level 4 of the Pyramid also.

As far as other deserving bands are concerned, with the possible exceptions of Yes and E.L.O., Duran Duran deserves induction over most of those other artists. I would say that Duran Duran is on a level playing field with E.L.O., and Yes is slightly above them. Culture Club was a brilliant band also, but Culture Club would be slightly below Duran Duran.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Thursday, 09/3/2015 @ 22:28pm

In my opinion, the artist who most deserves to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame in 2016 as the headliner is Duran Duran. I am not saying that Yes, The Moody Blues, the Electric Light Orchestra, Sade and Carly Simon are not deserving as well, but I think that Duran Duran would be a great headliner. So, the ultimate question might be, "Who should induct them? Moby? Billy Corgan? Rush?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 09/5/2015 @ 10:54am

Once again, the "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode featuring Duran Duran is scheduled to air on Sunday September 13, 2015 on VH-1 Classic @ 1:00 p.m. E.D.T.

If you look at my previous posts, you will realize that I have posted many comments about Duran Duran over the past three years. I have been an advocate of their induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame since they were first eligible. Prior to the release of "Rio" by Duran Duran, Rush had reached what many would be considered to be the apex of their studio albums, "Moving Pictures." Although, I still appreciate most of the songs on "Moving Pictures," I still think that Rush had not reached their apex, until the release of their second live offering, "Exit... Stage Left," on October 29, 1981. So, why am I discussing Rush on the Duran Duran page? Because I have always held the idea that Duran Duran was more than just a "pop" group. For those of us who are aficionados of "progressive rock," John Taylor's recent statement about Duran Duran being unabashedly prog helps to explain their longevity and the reasons why Duran Duran still has massive appeal. Not unlike their older brother Rush, Duran Duran has also been critically marginalized for far too long. Rush and Duran Duran have something else in common, they both have a desire to continue to explore new directions and both have an unwavering commitment to excellence.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 09/6/2015 @ 16:00pm

Once again, the "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode featuring Duran Duran is scheduled to air on Sunday September 13, 2015 on VH-1 Classic @ 1:00 p.m. E.D.T.

If you look at my previous posts, you will realize that I have posted many comments about Duran Duran over the past three years. I have been an advocate of their induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame since they were first eligible. Prior to the release of "Rio" by Duran Duran, Rush had reached what many would be considered to be the apex of their studio albums, "Moving Pictures." Although, I still appreciate most of the songs on "Moving Pictures," I still think that Rush had not reached their apex, until the release of their second live offering, "Exit... Stage Left," on October 29, 1981. So, why am I discussing Rush on the Duran Duran page? Because I have always held the idea that Duran Duran was more than just a "pop" group. For those of us who are aficionados of "progressive rock," John Taylor's recent statement about Duran Duran being unabashedly prog helps to explain their longevity and the reasons why Duran Duran still has massive appeal. Not unlike their older brother Rush, Duran Duran has also been critically marginalized for far too long. Rush and Duran Duran have something else in common, they both have a desire to continue to explore new directions and both have an unwavering commitment to excellence. For these many reasons, in addition to their influence and innovation, Duran Duran deserves immediate induction into the Rock & Roll
Hall Of Fame.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 09/6/2015 @ 16:09pm

For those of you who are interested, once again the "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode featuring Duran Duran is scheduled to air on Sunday September 13, 2015 at 1:00 p.m. E.D.T. on VH-1 Classic.

Also, Duran Duran's 14th studio album, "Paper Gods" is scheduled to be released on Friday September 11, 2015.

I still hope to see "Reportage" released in the not too distant future.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Thursday, 09/10/2015 @ 06:45am

Getting close to RRHOF nomination time. I would think Duran Duran will be 1 of 30-40 groups that will be given consideration. I've been thinking if I was a presenter how would I convey to the Committee Duran Duran's importance in music.
Duran Duran contributed to the Band Aid project and Live Aid concert which has been an important moment in music. The 1985 Live Aid concerts were held in US and England. Some of the performers were legendary and already inducted in Hall Of Fame.
I would point to Duran Duran and their 37 year longevity. They are not a nostalgia act but a vibrant band releasing a new masterpiece with Paper Gods in Sept.
In the music area, A Diamond In The Mind,Rio and the Wedding Album were excellent musically. I'm partial to Pop Trash. Duran Duran continues to evolve musically and perpetuate rock music.
Influence and Innovation. Important criteria that Duran Duran is strong in when you consider groups who have tried to imitate their sound and dress. DD were also pioneers in the making of artistic videos on MTV. Hungry Like The Wolf, Save A Prayer, Rio etc. More groups realized the importance of this medium with Michael Jackson's Thriller and David Bowie and his videos.
Simply, you take Duran Duran in their totality and their successful spin off side projects Arcadia & Power Station...There aren't many groups with their number of hits, album sales, longevity,influence and innovation, pioneering videos, or popularity.
Those few groups who match Duran Duran in these areas are already inducted in RRHOF or have been nominated. Duran Duran deserves nomination in 2015 and 2016 induction. KING

Posted by KING on Tuesday, 09/15/2015 @ 19:21pm

KING,

I agree completely with what you have said previously.

That was a very excellent posting. Thank you for your continuing support of Duran Duran.

Now, here are the reasons why I feel that Duran Duran have always been "progressive rock," or "art rock" artists:

01. The use of keyboards, bass guitar, guitar, drums, percussion and vocals. Instrumentation wise, Duran Duran is very similar to Yes.

02. The incorporation of odd time signatures into their music.

03. The inherent complexity of their music.

04. The virtuosic talent of many of their members (for example, John Taylor is considered to be one of the finest bass guitarists, and Nick Rhodes is a highly regarded keyboardist.)

05. The frequent use of string ensembles, or orchestras, in order to flesh out their sound.

06. The intelligence of Simon Le Bon's lyrics.

07. The desire to utilize non traditional rock instrumentation into their songs, for example the use of a saxophone on 'Rio.'

08. The desire to incorporate different styles into their music, this is the "progressive" urge.

09. The desire to constantly strive for perfection, Duran Duran refuses to rest on their laurels.

10. The attitudes involved in song construction, the desire to do whatever is necessary in order to make that song as great as possible.

11. Although Duran Duran may be popular, their music is coming from a more organic place, rather than catering to popular music trends. Their music isn't popular because of a pre-conceived formula. It's popular because of the fact that it is quite appealing.

12. Longevity: pop artists burn up rather quickly, Duran Duran has been creating interesting music for over 35 years.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Wednesday, 09/16/2015 @ 06:20am

Duran Duran's 14th studio offering is a relatively good album. In my honest opinion, the best songs are: 'What Are The Chances?,' 'The Universe Alone,' 'Paper Gods' and 'Pressure Off.' At this point, I would give it a rating of (***1/2). In my honest opinion, 'All You Need Is Now' and 'A Diamond In The Mind' are two of Duran Duran's best works, however the orchestrations behind 'What Are The Chances?' and 'The Universe Alone' certainly make this recording worthwhile.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Friday, 09/18/2015 @ 10:01am

I think that the fact that Duran Duran had been profiled on CBS Sunday Morning recently bodes well for them.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 09/19/2015 @ 03:13am

Duran Duran's fourteenth studio album, "Paper Gods" is a very good album. In my honest opinion, the best songs on this recording are the extraordinary, 'What Are The Chances,' 'The Universe Alone,' 'Northern Lights,' 'Face For Today, 'Pressure Off' and 'Paper Gods.' Of the remaining tracks, I think that 'You Kill Me With Silence,' 'Change The Silence,' 'Only In Dreams' and 'Change The Silence' are good. I would like to revise my rating to (****). Do I think that this is the album that will finally get Duran Duran recognized by the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame?
Do you?

In my honest opinion, "Paper Gods" is just icing on the cake. "All You Need Is Now" and the extended version of "A Diamond In The Mind" should have cemented their nomination and induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame.

"Paper Gods" simply proves that they deserve to be the headliners.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 09/19/2015 @ 15:20pm

Duran Duran's fourteenth studio album, "Paper Gods" is a very good album. In my honest opinion, the best songs on this recording are the extraordinary, 'What Are The Chances,' 'The Universe Alone,' 'Northern Lights,' 'Face For Today, 'Pressure Off' and 'Paper Gods.' Of the remaining tracks, I think that 'You Kill Me With Silence,' 'Only In Dreams' and 'Change The Skyline' are good. I would like to revise my rating to (****). Do I think that this is the album that will finally get Duran Duran recognized by the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame?
Do you?

In my honest opinion, "Paper Gods" is just icing on the cake. "All You Need Is Now" and the extended version of "A Diamond In The Mind" should have cemented their nomination and induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame in 2016.

"Paper Gods" simply proves that they deserve to be the headliners.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 09/19/2015 @ 15:25pm

With Duran Duran's most recent studio offering, "Paper Gods," Duran Duran once again adds a few iconic songs to their repertoire. 'What Are The Chances?' and 'The Universe Alone' rival 'Ordinary World' as being amongst Duran Duran's greatest songs.

Does Duran Duran deserve immediate induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame? Yes, absolutely! Do they deserve to be the headliners? Yes, absolutely! Do they deserve to be inducted by the members of Rush? Yes, absolutely!

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 09/26/2015 @ 11:00am

Duran Duran lip synched on Ellen. Hell NO!

Posted by Marissa on Saturday, 09/26/2015 @ 14:38pm

The members of Duran Duran:

1. Have written their own lyrics
2. Have written their own music
3. Have been a major influence upon numerous major rock and popular music artists.
4. Have Embraced change and innovation.
5. Have refused to rest on their laurels
6. Have experimented with new musical directions
7. Are not afraid to be identified as unabashedly prog.
8. As far as I know, have always been fully clothed in public during their performances.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 09/27/2015 @ 12:11pm

The members of Duran Duran:

01.Have written their own lyrics.
02. Have written their own music.
03. Have been a major influence upon numerous major rock
and popular music artists.
04. Have embraced change and innovation.
05. Have refused to rest on their laurels.
06. Have experimented with new musical directions.
07. Are not afraid to be identified as unabashedly prog.
08. As far as I know, have always appeared fully clothed in public during their performances.
09. When working with various collaborators have ensured
that those collaborators have been acknowledged.
10. Deserve immediate induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 09/27/2015 @ 14:00pm

The members of Duran Duran:

01. Have written their own music.
02. Have been acknowledged as an influence upon modern artists.
03. Have been acknowledged as creators of interesting music.
04. Have written their own lyrics.
05. Have embraced change and innovation.
06. Have refused to rest on their laurels.
07. Have experimented with new musical directions.
08. When working with various collaborators, have
ensured that those collaborators have been properly acknowledged.
09. Have remained an active musical entity for 37 years.
10. Deserve immediate induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 09/27/2015 @ 14:42pm

Once again, the "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode featuring Duran Duran is scheduled to air on Sunday October 5, 2015 at 12:00 a.m. on VH-1 Classic.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Wednesday, 09/30/2015 @ 20:05pm

They will be waiting a very long time. At least another 10 years.

Posted by Krafter on Monday, 10/5/2015 @ 10:57am

Ouch their new album is a big stinker.

Posted by Ryan on Wednesday, 10/7/2015 @ 00:15am

Ryan,


No, it is not. It is just not as superb as either "A Diamond In The Mind," or "All You Need Is Now."

Krafter,

Duran Duran will not be waiting another ten years for induction. They may be inducted next year, instead.

I was surprised by the fact that the induction city was switched from Los Angeles to New York. I was counting on it being Los Angeles instead. When I had created my list, I was considering those bands which would fit in with Los Angeles. Duran Duran would have been a perfect fit for L.A. The Rock Hall Nominating Committee certainly likes to keep everyone on their toes, guessing. Do they not?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Friday, 10/9/2015 @ 08:59am

What the heck happened? Why didn't Duran Duran get on the 2016 Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame Nominating Committee's ballot? Why did the induction location get changed to New York, from Los Angeles?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 10/10/2015 @ 09:48am

Well, it's another nomination cycle and no Duran Duran. Very surprised no Duran Duran but this is an excellent slate of artists. Finally Chicago & Steve Miller. I really hope Steve Miller gets inducted. He's been around since the 60's. Must have been great birthday present for Steve. Deep Purple should make it this year. I'm curious what the FRL regulars think about Duran Duran and their chances going forward on being nominated. Where are they lacking or need to improve if anything? KING

Posted by KING on Monday, 10/12/2015 @ 03:48am

KING: I honestly think Duran Duran has done enough to merit the induction, but the Hall has been really asleep with inducting post-British Invasion Brit artists. The Smiths being nominated as opposed to already in is a sign of it.

Posted by SotN on Monday, 10/12/2015 @ 05:31am

KING,


I could not possibly agree more. I think that Simon Le Bon's and John Taylor's recent statements about the importance of the Rock Hall, almost guarantees that Duran Duran will receive a nomination next year. Those are great comments, gentlemen. Rush had employed the same type of strategy before they had been inducted, also.

KING and SotN,


Thank you for supporting Duran Duran.


Now, how will Duran Duran fare for acknowledging that they have always been a "progressive rock" band? Well, quite obviously it has worked for Chicago; maybe it will yield similar results for Duran Duran!

Posted by Enigmaticus on Thursday, 10/15/2015 @ 09:15am

Duran Duran is scheduled to appear tonight, October 15, 2015 on Jimmy Kimmel Live on ABC.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Friday, 10/16/2015 @ 01:19am

Once again, the "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode featuring Duran Duran is scheduled to air on Monday October 18, 2015 at 11:00 p.m. E.D.T. on VH-1 Classic.

Duran Duran has now been eligible for induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame for almost a decade. Their new studio album, "Paper Gods" has been receiving good reviews. Their previous live recording, "A Diamond In The Mind," which is another masterpiece, has really shown just how far Duran Duran has improved since their earliest days. Their previous studio offering, "All You Need Is Now" was another masterpiece.

John Taylor's recent statement about Duran Duran having always been a progressive rock band is another statement which helps to explain their longevity. In my honest opinion, when Duran Duran is finally inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame, their only suitable inductors would happen to be the members of Rush. Of course, if The Moody Blues, another huge influence upon Rush, is inducted during the same year, this might be quite problematic for Rush. I am now most looking forward to the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame nominees list for 2017. Hopefully, the ceremony will be in Los Angeles at that time.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 10/18/2015 @ 12:22pm

True on the induction dilemmas for Rush. Perhaps Rush should induct every band from now on. Except Chicago. Because Barack Obama and Bill Clinton will be doing that one.

Posted by Dezmond on Sunday, 10/18/2015 @ 14:06pm

Dezmond,

R.O.F.L.M.A.O.W.A.D.R. at that one. ;-)

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 10/18/2015 @ 14:37pm

Perhaps Duran Duran should release a DD35 box set which includes a collection of all of their videos on BluRay, including the uncensored version of 'Girl Panic.' Duran Duran should also include a compendium of their live concerts and include excerpts from their documentaries. Also, it might be a very good idea to release "Reportage."

Posted by Enigmaticus on Monday, 10/19/2015 @ 00:49am

Once again, the "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode featuring Duran Duran is scheduled to air on Monday October 19, 2015 at 11:00 p.m. E.D.T. on VH-1 Classic.

Duran Duran has now been eligible for induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame for almost a decade. Their new studio album, "Paper Gods" has been receiving good reviews. Their previous live recording, "A Diamond In The Mind," which is another masterpiece, has really shown just how far Duran Duran has improved since their earliest days. Their previous studio offering, "All You Need Is Now" was another masterpiece.

John Taylor's recent statement about Duran Duran having always been a progressive rock band is another statement which helps to explain their longevity. In my honest opinion, when Duran Duran is finally inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame, their only suitable inductors would happen to be the members of Rush. Of course, if The Moody Blues, another huge influence upon Rush, is inducted during the same year, this might be quite problematic for Rush. I am now most looking forward to the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame nominees list for 2017. Hopefully, the ceremony will be in Los Angeles at that time.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Monday, 10/19/2015 @ 01:41am

Once again, noone cares.

Posted by Ryan on Monday, 10/19/2015 @ 04:58am

ENIG

I think you are right when you mentioned some months back that Duran Duran needs some groups to speak up and pick up the torch for them. Maybe,guys like your RUSH or The Police or U2. It might help Duran Duran if Chicago, Deep Purple, & YES all get inducted in 2016. All have Prog or Prog Adjacent in their DNA. Duran Duran definitely moving into Top 10 of RRHOF bands deserving if not there already. Thanks for your excellent Duran Duran posts. Hoping Duran Duran & Moody Blues get nominated in 2016-2017. KING

Posted by KING on Wednesday, 10/21/2015 @ 21:55pm

KING,

Thank you for your continuing support of Duran Duran. Perhaps, Duran Duran needs to release their highly anticipated studio album, "Reportage," in order to receive a nomination from the Rock Hall?

Once again, the "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode featuring Duran Duran is scheduled to air on Sunday October 25, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. E.D.T. on VH-C1assic.

Otherwise, Simon Le Bon and Roger Taylor are scheduled to be on Sirius X-M radio on The Big 80's several times during the remainder of the week. Check out Duran Duran's website for times and dates. Next week, Nick Rhodes and John Taylor will be on FirstWave.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Thursday, 10/22/2015 @ 10:31am

Once again, the "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode featuring Duran Duran is scheduled to air on Sunday October 25, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. E.D.T. on VH-1 Classic.

Simon Le Bon and Roger Taylor are scheduled to be on The Big 80's on 8 on Sirius X-M radio as djs on Friday October 23, 2015 at 12:00 a.m. and on Saturday October 24, 2015 at 9:00 a.m. E.D.T. and at 9:00 p.m. E.D.T. Also, on Sunday October 25, 2015 at 2:00 p.m. E.D.T.

Nick Rhodes and John Taylor are going to discuss their influences on "1st Wave" next week. Please check http://duranduran.com for more information.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Friday, 10/23/2015 @ 00:54am

I've been approached by a half-dozen or so fan campaign groups to brainstorm with them and share some best practices of my #InductJanet campaign. The Duran Duran folks have been one of the quieter supporters.

What's ironic is that one of their biggest supporters here has been the biggest Janet Jackson detractor - practically a broken record with ludicrous and unsound reasoning.

I've considered partnering to assist with some ideas in getting Duran Duran some overdue consideration? Quite the
conundrum, though.

Posted by Mike on Saturday, 10/24/2015 @ 03:49am

1. I do not think that it is unsound, to not support artists who advocate misogyny, hatred, racism and homophobia.

2. Nor do I think that it is unreasonable to expect artists to write their own lyrics, songs and perhaps even play a musical instrument.

3. As far as I am concerned, if you are a singer, then constantly lip synching in concert is the rough equivalent of cheating on an exam. Just because everyone else does it, does not make it right.

4. Openly promising individuals that you will do something for them and reneging, especially if you are a celebrity, is not appropriate behavior.



On the other hand, as far as Duran Duran is concerned:

1. With the possible exceptions of their "Thank You" album, and possibly a few cover songs, Duran Duran has written their own music.

2. For the most part, the members of Duran Duran have written their own lyrics and have played their own instruments.

3. The members of Duran Duran have constantly pursued excellence; they do not fill their albums with mediocre songs.

4. The members of Duran Duran are not afraid to experiment with new musical styles.

5. The members of Duran Duran are huge supporters of many different charities.

6. Although, I have never had the privilege of meeting them in person, I can infer that the members of Duran Duran are very decent people who have made our planet a much better place to live in. They appear to be honest, trustworthy and have a great deal of integrity.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 10/24/2015 @ 07:07am

Numbers 1 thru 4 are completely and utterly false, as has been pointed out by others countless times here at FRL. You simply refuse to listen or even open your mind a little.

Have a great weekend! And good luck to Duran Duran in the future.

Posted by Mike on Saturday, 10/24/2015 @ 07:43am

Speaking of misogyny, I guess Enigmaticus never watched the music video of Girls on Film. That clip was not well-received among feminists.

Posted by The_Claw on Saturday, 10/24/2015 @ 18:49pm

Misogyny means hatred of women, i.e. it implies beating up women. Do you see that kind of activity in any Duran Duran videos? Kevin Godley & Lol Creme, former members of 10cc, had directed that particular video.

On the other hand, Dr. Dre has a history of assaulting women and after his assault of Dee Barnes, the remainder of n.w.a. were duplicitous in their support of his activity.

I am against any group, or organization which abuses women. Most of the women in Duran Duran's videos are depicted in a positive light.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 10/24/2015 @ 20:19pm

Enig,

Misogyny doesn't just mean physical violence; it also refers to anything that portrays women as being lesser to men, such as portraying them as merely sexual objects.

Posted by Philip on Saturday, 10/24/2015 @ 23:10pm

Duran Duran's video for their song, 'Girl Panic' is an empowering video for women. The premise that famous supermodels are taking the place of each of the members of Duran Duran was really quite inspirational. I think that this video has done a great deal to reverse the image of the women portrayed in the 'Girls On Film' video, which might be considered a little bit risque.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 10/25/2015 @ 09:47am

Duran Duran's presence has been quite ubiquitous this year. They are finally starting to get some major critical recognition. I would definitely be most interested in purchasing a BluRay of their video catalogue, especially their vide for 'Girl Panic,' which is their best video, in my honest opinion. I would also be interested in purchasing the extended version of "A Diamond In The Mind" on cd, as well. I would be most excited to hear about in their announcement of the release of their yet unreleased masterpiece: "Reportage."

Once again, the "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode featuring Duran Duran is scheduled to air on Sunday October 25, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. E.D.T. on VH-1 Classic.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 10/25/2015 @ 10:13am

Duran Duran's presence has been quite ubiquitous this year. They are finally starting to get some major critical recognition. I would definitely be most interested in purchasing a BluRay of their video catalogue, especially their video for 'Girl Panic,' which is their best video, in my honest opinion. I would also be very interested in purchasing the extended version of "A Diamond In The Mind" on cd, as well. Finally, I would be most excited to hear about their announcement of the release of their yet unreleased masterpiece: "Reportage."

Once again, the "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode featuring Duran Duran is scheduled to air on Sunday October
25, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. E.D.T. on VH-1 Classic.



Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 10.25.15 @ 10:13am

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 10/25/2015 @ 10:23am

Lindsay Lohan, though? Really?

Posted by Ryan on Sunday, 10/25/2015 @ 11:20am

Enig, I would also be very interested to hear 'Reportage,' based on what I have read about it. Curious, though, how can you already claim it is a "masterpiece" if you have not actually heard it?

Posted by Dezmond on Sunday, 10/25/2015 @ 11:39am

"Duran Duran's video for their song, 'Girl Panic' is an empowering video for women. The premise that famous supermodels are taking the place of each of the members of Duran Duran was really quite inspirational. I think that this video has done a great deal to reverse the image of the women portrayed in the 'Girls On Film' video, which might be considered a little bit risque." - Enigmaticus

Or, another interpretation is that a calling card of Duran Duran videos has always been to feature hot chicks.

Posted by Dezmond on Sunday, 10/25/2015 @ 11:43am

Dezmond,

I will easily admit that I think that many people would much rather look at attractive ladies, as opposed to unattractive ones.


"Reportage" is considered by the members of Duran Duran to be even better than "Astronaut." In my honest opinion, I would rank "Astronaut" as one of Duran Duran's best albums, if "Reportage" is even better than it's so-called predecessor, then I have little doubt that it will be another masterpiece.

After more than 3 1/2 decades of excellence. I feel that Duran Duran has earned every single one of their many accolades and as a result, absolutely deserve immediate induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame!

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 10/25/2015 @ 12:19pm

I have seen that too, that DD think highly of 'Reportage'. But I have often found that the artists themselves are not the best judges of their own work.

Posted by Dezmond on Sunday, 10/25/2015 @ 16:32pm

Today is the 57th anniversary of the birth of Simon Le Bon. Happy Birthday, Simon and thank you for all of the great songs that you have co-written for more than 35 years. Thank you for choosing to remain innovative and experimental.

The members of Duran Duran definitely deserve immediate induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame.

Once again, the "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode featuring Duran Duran is scheduled to air on Saturday October 31, 2015 at 1:00 p.m. E.D.T. on VH-1 Classic.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Tuesday, 10/27/2015 @ 06:19am

ENIG

Yes, it is Simon's birthday. Congrats to Simon. You made a good post about the staying power of Prog bands. Groups like Moody Blues, Yes, Rush still going strong and Prog Adjacent bands Chicago & Deep Purple still bringing it. Never thought Duran Duran as Prog but your sources very strong, I'm thinking Duran and or Moody Blues will be nominated 2016-2017 cycle. It would help both groups if Chicago, Deep Purple, & YES all make it this year. I'm seeing good buzz already with Duran Duran and Moody Blues here on FRL and other media. Keep up the informative & intelligent posts. KING

Posted by KING on Tuesday, 10/27/2015 @ 19:41pm

Question: If Duran Duran's spinoff band, Arcadia was considered to be an "art rock" band and Duran Duran is composed of 60% of Arcadia (Simon Le Bon, Nick Rhodes and Roger Taylor), then how can Duran Duran not be considered to be an "art rock" band?


Once again, the "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode featuring Duran Duran is scheduled to air on Wednesday November 4, 2015 at 5:00 p.m. E.S.T. on VH-1 Classic.

Also, this week's episode of "Later... with Jools Holland" is scheduled to feature Duran Duran. This episode is scheduled to air on Thursday November 5, 2015 at 10:00 p.m. E.S.T. on Palladia."

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 11/1/2015 @ 05:11am

Enigmaticus: I looked up Arcadia. They were active for, basically, a cup of coffee in 1985. If memory serves, weren't members of Duran Duran also involved in the pop/hard rock supergroup Power Station at the same time?

I know you love Duran Duran (same here), so would you view the idea that Duran Duran's members could split into two very distinct groups, and yet pull off decent quality in both forms a testament to how great they were musically?

Posted by SotN on Sunday, 11/1/2015 @ 05:56am

Yes SotN,

The Power Station was another spinoff of Duran Duran featuring John Taylor, Andy Taylor, he late Robert Palmer and the late Tony Thompson from Chic.

I think that the members of Duran Duran are extremely humble when it comes to their expertise as musicians.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 11/1/2015 @ 06:47am

Yes SotN,

The Power Station was another spinoff of Duran Duran featuring John Taylor, Andy Taylor, the late Robert Palmer and the late Tony Thompson from Chic.

I think that the members of Duran Duran are extremely humble when it comes to their expertise as musicians.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 11/1/2015 @ 06:49am

Once again, the "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode featuring Duran Duran is scheduled to air on Thursday November 19, 2015 at 7:00 p.m. E.S.T. on VH-1 Classic.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Wednesday, 11/11/2015 @ 09:28am

Finally watched the Duran Duran Behind The Music. Most of the pictures & stories I remember from my sister's Star Hits and Teen Beats she used to collect. I think I was struck by the ambition of Duran Duran from a young age. They had a vision of their music & sound and succeeded. RIO was an excellent album. Always liked the songs Is There Something I Should Know? and Save A Prayer. The key to Duran Duran is their music experimentation. You can hear the strings in Ordinary World & Pop Trash and the side projects Power Station & Arcadia were successful. Duran Duran almost 40 yrs old and show know signs of stopping. John, Nick, & Simon are Duran Duran's heartbeat. As long as 2/3 still in the band, DD will continue to forge ahead. The Behind The Music has instilled in me that Duran Duran belongs in the RRHOF and they should be inducted within 5 years. Just outstanding band who can play instruments & write their own songs. KING

Posted by KING on Wednesday, 11/11/2015 @ 21:58pm

KING,

I am glad that you were finally able to see the "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode featuring Duran Duran. Although, there is quite a bit of information available about Duran Duran on the B.T.M. program, it is by no means all encompassing. There is also a "Classic Albums: Rio," episode as well, plus numerous documentaries about Duran Duran. I had been able to glean quite a bit more about Duran Duran from those documentaries as well. If you do a search on YouTube, you will find a plethora of great information.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Thursday, 11/12/2015 @ 09:28am

With the flurry of activity surrounding Duran Duran this year, I would be extremely disappointed to not see them on the 2016 Nominating Committee's ballot. I will continue to reiterate the importance of Duran Duran until and perhaps after, they have been inducted.

Now, let's say that they are inducted in 2017. Who should induct them? Rush, perhaps?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 11/14/2015 @ 13:51pm

If Duran Duran had any nomination momentum it would have likely happened this year. Their album received mixed reviews, unfortunately and barely registered a blip on the charts. But I think they're still out on the road.

Posted by Nick on Friday, 11/20/2015 @ 06:36am

Enigmaticus and others, the person who posted the comment is not me (Nick) who contributes to the various projects and discussions here at FRL. If there's another Nick, should I modify my username so others don't get confused? I wrote Nick14 in this post just to separate myself for the sake of posting this comment. If some of my fellow posters have an opinion on this, let me know. I just don't want to get confused for someone's opinions.

Posted by Nick14 on Friday, 11/20/2015 @ 09:12am

KING,

"Duran Duran: Unstaged" has recently been released on DVD.

By the way, here is a list of my favorite Duran Duran songs, thus far:

01. Ordinary World (A Diamond In The Mind Live: 2011, 2011)
02. The Chauffeur (Rio, 1982)
03. What Happens Tomorrow (Astronaut, 2004)
04. The Man Who Stole A Leopard (A Diamond In The Mind Live: 2011, 2011)
05. What Are The Chances? (Paper Gods, 2015)
06. Save A Prayer (Rio, 1982)
07. Come Undone (A Diamond In The Mind Live: 2011, 2011)
08. Girl Panic (All You Need Is Now, 2010)
09. Pop Trash Movie (Pop Trash, 2000)
10. Pressure Off (Paper Gods, 2015)
11. Rio (Rio, 1982)
12. The Universe Alone (Paper Gods, 2015)
13. Too Much Information (Duran Duran, 1993)
14. Mediterranea (All You Need Is Now, 2010)
15. Planet Earth (Duran Duran, 1981)
16. New Moon On Monday (Seven And The Ragged Tiger, 1983)
17. All You Need Is Now (All You Need Is Now, 2010)
18. Hungry Like The Wolf (Rio, 1982)
19. Before The Rain (A Diamond In The Mind Live:2011, 2011)
20. Is There Something I Should Know (Arena, 1984)

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 11/21/2015 @ 17:49pm

ENIG

Great Duran Duran post Enigmaticus. Your best Duran Duran songs has me thinking. I'll give it a whirl.

1.Hungry Like The Wolf-Big hit and really brought Duran Duran to the masses. The Duran Duran sound at its finest.

2.Ordinary World-Outstanding lyrics and composition. Duran Duran shows some prog with the lush string arrangements. Beautiful song Wedding Album!

3.Is There Something I Should Know?-I've heard this song 3x last few days. Brilliant in its simplicity with strong LeBon voice and JT's trademark bass.

4.Pop Trash-A KING FAV this song and album. Reminds me of Ordinary World with the lush string section. Love the build up and the release.

5.Rio-Just a fantastic song! Off the cool Rio album. Rio sure was hot...Remember that saxophone number. Great!

6.Save A Prayer-A lovely,gentle song. Interesting song. Sounds like it's about men-women relationships where the man has a one night stand. The good and bad that comes from it.

7.Notorious-Doesn't get much better than this. Duran Duran shows they can be funky and write an infectious song. Great video with the attractive women.

8.Serious-A stripped down song with Warren with one of the best lyrics all time. The whole world is getting used...That's just the way it is.

9.Come Undone-This slow burner off the Wedding album rocks. Simon in fine voice and excellent video.

10.The Chauffeur-This is one of Duran Duran's 1st songs. Showed talent of band early. Haunting song. Makes me think and contemplate its meaning. One of my sister favorites as well.

I'll stop at 10 Duran Duran songs. So many great songs. Duran Duran deserves immediate induction into the Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame. One of the biggest snubs with Deep Purple and Iron Maiden. KING

Posted by KING on Saturday, 11/21/2015 @ 19:31pm

KING,

Thank you. I do believe that enough has happened to warrant Duran Duran's immediate induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame. "Paper Gods" has certainly been garnering quite a bit of attention lately. I think that this will translate into an induction for Duran Duran in 2017.

When I was watching an excerpt from "Rush: Beyond The Lighted Stage" recently, I had realized that when Neil Peart was referring to loving the music of that time, that in addition to The Police, U2, Peter Gabriel, Roxy Music and Ultravox, Rush had also liked the New Romantic bands, specifically Duran Duran. I really would not be surprised at all, if Rush does induct Duran Duran into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame in 2017.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 11/21/2015 @ 20:50pm

So why was Duran Duran marginalized by the Rock Press? Many opinions abound, but I think that it was due to the obnoxious screamfest that they had encountered during their earlier years. Roger Taylor had left because of this, but he had unfortunately missed out on some of Duran Duran's greatest successes. Now that Roger, John, Nick and Simon have been back together for nearly a decade and a half, they have decided to tour next summer.

"Paper Gods" has received very good reviews, "A Diamond In The Mind: Live 2011" was another masterpiece. Duran Duran has recently released "Duran Duran: Unstaged" on DVD. Next year, Duran Duran will celebrate their 38th year as a band. Duran Duran came out as "prog" earlier this year. "All You Need Is Now," "Astronaut," "Duran Duran (1993)," "Rio" and "Duran Duran (1981)" are acknowledged masterpieces. "Rio" is considered to be a "classic" album. Duran Duran has been recording and playing music for over 35 years. Duran Duran has received numerous awards from very prestigious institutions. Duran Duran has a world class bassist, keyboardist and singer/songwriter. Isn't it about time for Duran Duran to receive a long overdue induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Tuesday, 12/15/2015 @ 09:41am

No. They're pretty overrated. A fun cheese-pop band, sure. Not Hall of Fame worthy, however. Which would explain why they've yet to even be considered.

"Paper Gods" received mixed reviews at best. It pretty much flopped across the board.

Posted by Nick on Tuesday, 12/15/2015 @ 10:03am

Nick,

Excuse me, a "fun cheese-pop band," really?

Pop bands have very short lifespans.

No, there must have been something very different about Duran Duran. So, what was it? Why has Duran Duran remained intact for nearly 38 years?

When the "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode featuring Duran Duran says that Duran Duran had mixed elements of glam, punk and disco," they should have said this, "Duran Duran had mixed elements of prog, punk and disco," instead.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 12/19/2015 @ 04:09am

Nick,

Excuse me, a "fun cheese-pop band," really?

Pop bands have very short lifespans.

No, there must have been something very different about Duran Duran. So, what was it? Why has Duran Duran remained intact for nearly 38 years?

When the "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode featuring Duran Duran says that "Duran Duran had mixed elements of glam, punk and disco," they should have said this instead, "Duran Duran had mixed elements of prog, punk and disco."

That's right, most of Duran Duran's contemporaries are now relegated to just being nostalgia bands, while Duran Duran has been going strong, creating new and innovative music, for
nearly 38 consecutive years.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 12/19/2015 @ 04:27am

Enigmaticus,
That guy who posted under the name 'Nick' earlier in the week is not the same Nick who regularly contributes to the various projects on FRL and comments on the Rock Hall. Someone else is using my name in this forum, probably because it's a common name or I don't know why. As you know, I have always supported Duran Duran getting in the Rock Hall (I've made several comments over the years in this forum); I think they're actually an underrated group for the most part. I don't necessarily agree with the genre classification of that group but support them nevertheless.

Posted by Nick on Saturday, 12/19/2015 @ 09:54am

Thank you Nick for the clarification. We will call the anti-Duran Duran Nick, Nick X from now on, in order to avoid confusion. That's why I have the moniker, Enigmaticus.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 12/19/2015 @ 12:39pm

So, which other progressive rock band, besides Rush is able to write complicated music in odd time signatures and make it seem effortless? The answer is Duran Duran.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 12/19/2015 @ 13:09pm

Enigmaticus,
I've meaning to ask you if you listened to the recent SiriusXM Town Hall Talks with Rush and Jeff Lynne. Each Talk aired about 2-3 weeks ago. Rush's was hosted by Classic Rewind and Lynne's was hosted by Classic Vinyl. You could definitely listen to them and they are currently on demand via the Internet Radio on Sirius XM. Would like to hear your thoughts on these interviews.

Also, it's a shame Yes didn't make the cut this year. Maybe next year, I think they'll definitely make it into the Rock Hall by the end of this decade.

Posted by Nick on Saturday, 12/19/2015 @ 13:13pm

Also to answer your previous question: The Moody Blues and Yes should be the next two progressive rock acts inducted into the Rock Hall. It's almost madness neither have been inducted yet.

Posted by Nick on Saturday, 12/19/2015 @ 13:23pm

Nick,

I have heard most of the Sirius X-M interview of Rush, but unfortunately I have not heard the interview with Jeff Lynne yet.

As far as who should be inducted as a member of Duran Duran is concerned. I will offer the following list:

Simon Le Bon
Nick Rhodes
John Taylor
Warren Cuccurullo
Andy Taylor
Dom Brown
Anna Ross
Nile Rodgers

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 12/19/2015 @ 14:47pm

Enig, no way should or would that be the list of inductees for a Duran Duran induction. It will be the original five only, although Warren Cuccurullo would also deserve induction. Dom Brown has never been an official member and Nole Rodgers produced some stuff and played on some tracks, but was never a member of the band. That would be like inducting Daniel Lanois and Brian Eno as members of U2.

Posted by Dezmond on Saturday, 12/19/2015 @ 15:36pm

I'm sure it was an oversight, but you left Roger Taylor off your list.

Posted by Dezmond on Saturday, 12/19/2015 @ 15:37pm

"When the "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode featuring Duran Duran says that "Duran Duran had mixed elements of glam, punk and disco," they should have said this instead, "Duran Duran had mixed elements of prog, punk and disco." "

Glam, punk and disco are their roots. That's a fact. They're a great pop band with their primary roots in glam, punk and disco. I've never seen it disputed by anybody but you, including members of the band. They don't need to be anything other than that. Pretending that they're prog doesn't make their music sound any different.

Actually having a first hand perspective of being a fan of theirs, a "Durannie", at their early-80s peak popularity, makes your revisionism even more irritating. It was the kids into prog, metal and hard rock who would give you the most shit for it. You don't get to claim them now.

Posted by DarinRG on Saturday, 12/19/2015 @ 17:27pm

Dezmond,


Thank you for pointing that out. You are absolutely correct, I had left Roger Taylor off the list accidentally.

I had meant to say:

01. Simon Le Bon
02. Nick Rhodes
03. John Taylor
04. Warren Cuccurullo
05. Roger Taylor
06. Andy Taylor

07. Dom Brown?
08. Anna Ross?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 12/19/2015 @ 17:30pm

DarinRG,

It is not revisionism, it is stated on the Duran Duran website: http://www.duranduran.com, under the current biography page. If you do not believe me, I strongly suggest that you see for yourself.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 12/19/2015 @ 19:36pm

DarinRG,

I had needed to amend my last comment.

It is stated on the Duran Duran website. Click on Timeline tab, then click on the Current Biography page. Please, Read the third paragraph thoroughly.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 12/19/2015 @ 21:24pm

Okay, done. If you're referring to John Taylor's single use of the word "progressive" with a small "p" as a general descriptor and not a reference to any specific genre or set of influences, we're interpreting it in very different ways. There's nothing there to change my comment that associating Duran Duran with Prog is revisionism with more than a small dose of irony.

Posted by DarinRG on Sunday, 12/20/2015 @ 01:01am

I'm starting to wonder if Duran Duran will ever receive induction. Those typewriter warrior critics from the 80s have to eat their reviews. Duran Duran is easily one of the 10 greatest groups of all time. Fashion, Influence, Innovation, Stage Shows, Exotic Videos, Entertaining Music. The total package almost 40 years strong. You can see the progressive element of Duran Duran in the lush string arrangements & orchestration in Ordinary World & Pop Trash. You don't see many groups usurping Duran Duran's CD talent & output and musical shows at their age. Everybody knows a Duran Duran song. I seriously can't think of many groups who had as many hits as Duran Duran. Easily 1 of the biggest snubs now. KING

Posted by KING on Sunday, 12/20/2015 @ 01:33am

KING,

Thank you for your continuing support of Duran Duran. Pop bands are ephemeral, the fact that Duran Duran has been around for almost 38 years, means that they have a great deal of substance to them. I will continue to support Duran Duran's induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame long after they have been inducted. Progressive rock bands frequently write complicated music in odd time signatures. Rush, Yes, Genesis, King Crimson, Gentle Giant and Duran Duran do this. Did you know that 'Ordinary World' was extremely difficult to play? This is not the mark of a "Pop band." nor is the use of string sections or orchestras to support songs. I think that John Taylor's recent admission that "In the original blueprint for the band, there was this dark, slightly progressive side to us, and it tended to get trampled on by the poptastic aspect," says it all: Duran Duran has always been a progressive rock band! It explains why the members of Rush have always liked Duran Duran and why I have also.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 12/20/2015 @ 10:20am

As many of you are well aware, I have written quite extensively about Duran Duran for nearly the past 3 years on this page. I will also continue to do so long after Duran Duran is finally inducted.

So, what was it about Duran Duran that had immediately appealed to me? Was it the videos? Perhaps, but no, it was actually the level of musicianship. I think that the fact that other musical luminaries have wanted to work with them speaks volumes about their integrity as musicians. Contrary to popular belief, Duran Duran was never a so-called "boy band."

Posted by Enigmaticus on Thursday, 12/24/2015 @ 10:56am

KING,

Even with the recent successes of "Paper Gods," "A Diamond In The Mind: Live 2011," "All You Need Is Now" and their arty film, "Duran Duran: Unstaged" directed by David Lynch, I think that Duran Duran still has an ace up their sleeves, or so to speak with "Reportage." I, for have been extremely excited about the prospects of "Reportage" being released in the near future. I would also like to see a BluRay compilation of their recent videos, including 'Girl Panic.' Wouldn't you?

Posted by Duran Duran on Sunday, 12/27/2015 @ 12:10pm

Kirk,

I certainly appreciate your perspective about immortalizing Duran Duran. I also appreciate the fact that these fine gentlemen are so humble about their unmistakable influence. Unfortunately, at this point in history, there are very few options for the immortalization of significant artists. Since, the Duran Duran fanbase was also supportive of Rush's induction, it only makes sense that Duran Duran should also receive this honor. Convincing the "progressive rock" crowd that Duran Duran should be acknowledged may be even more difficult. However, if you wish to place them in Prog Archives, I would be more than willing to support it.

Posted by Enigmaticux on Friday, 01/1/2016 @ 21:30pm

What the heck, how did that happen? I am not Enigmaticux; I am Enigmaticus. LOL

Posted by Enigmaticus on Friday, 01/1/2016 @ 21:41pm

Even though, I had seen "Duran Duran: Unstaged" at an "art film" theater slightly more than a year ago, I had still felt compelled to purchase a copy on DVD and watch it during the previous week. Have I gleaned any new information about Duran Duran as a result?

Yes, especially due to the special features section.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Wednesday, 01/6/2016 @ 08:49am

ENIG

With your extensive Duran Duran knowledge, I'm curious any links with Duran Duran & David Bowie. I know Roxy Music and David Bowie were influences. It's Duran Duran's time for nomination. I think Duran Duran surprises people with their youthful looks. Almost 40 years of music. KING

Posted by KING on Tuesday, 01/12/2016 @ 02:36am

KING,

The members of Duran Duran were definitely influenced by David Bowie. David Bowie had not only influenced punk rock, but also "art rock" and "progressive rock." Even, the members of Rush have been saddened by the news.

At this time, my heartfelt sympathies definitely go out to Iman and to Duncan. David Bowie was quite a unique artist; he is irreplaceable. His influence over the past five decades on music, art and theater was immense.

Which begs the question, will Iman be able to vote for the Rock Hall nominees, now that David is gone? :-(

Posted by Enigmaticus on Tuesday, 01/12/2016 @ 08:52am

Wow, I am utterly surprised that I have not written anything about Duran Duran for nearly a month. That is about to change.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Thursday, 02/4/2016 @ 09:33am

ENIGMATICUS
Can't think of 1 reason to prevent a Duran Duran Nomination in 2016. There has been many deaths of legendary musicians in January & February. Some have already been inducted. I have 3 Prog in my 18 2016 Nomination List. 1.Pearl Jam 2.Duran Duran 3.Black Crowes 4.The Cure 5.Bad Company 6.Kool & The Gang 7.Moody Blues 8.Bon Jovi 9.Janet Jackson 10.Smashing Pumpkins 11.Procol Harum 12.Rufus/Chaka Khan 13.The Cars 14.Gram/Emmylou 15.Emerson, Lake & Palmer 16.The Spinners 17.Judas Priest 18.Los Lobos. I'm not picking a Rap Act this year. Hoping this is the year for DD especially Moody Blues! KING

Posted by KING on Thursday, 02/4/2016 @ 18:48pm

2Pac and/or LL Cool J might surprise you then KING for the 2017 ballot. Or even better, the return of Eric B. & Rakim!!

Posted by Nick on Thursday, 02/4/2016 @ 18:52pm

"Wow, I am utterly surprised that I have not written anything about Duran Duran for nearly a month. That is about to change."

Well, all good things must come to an end.

Posted by Philip on Thursday, 02/4/2016 @ 20:49pm

ENIG

I always considered Duran Duran new wave or pop but reading about their progressive tendencies. Can you write your progressive list FAVS again where Duran Duran would fit in with Yes & Rush for example?! Heard some Rio this morning and brought back great memories of my youth. DD have outlasted their critics and as you have declared:Duran Duran deserves immediate induction RRHOF!!!Happy Birthday and a salute to you the Prog King! KING

Posted by KING on Tuesday, 02/9/2016 @ 23:55pm

KING,

Thank you. Here is my list of 10 favorite progressive rock artists:

01. Rush

02. Yes

03. The Moody Blues

04. Pink Floyd

05. Jethro Tell

06. Gentle Giant

07. King Crimson

08. Duran Duran

09. Talking Heads

10. Kansas

By the way, thank you for the belated birthday wishes; my birthday was a week ago.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Wednesday, 02/10/2016 @ 02:20am

KING,

Thank you. Here is my list of 10 favorite progressive rock artists:

01. Rush

02. Yes

03. The Moody Blues

04. Pink Floyd

05. Jethro Tull

06. Gentle Giant

07. King Crimson

08. Duran Duran

09. Talking Heads

10. Kansas

By the way, thank you for the belated birthday wishes; my birthday was a week ago.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Wednesday, 02/10/2016 @ 02:27am

ENIG

Loved the Prog List. The Talking Heads at #9 was very impressive. I think they were one of the most intelligent and innovative groups out there. David Byrne was a musical genius and one of my FAV singers. Burning Down The House, And She Was, Psycho Killer etc. just classics. I never realized how influential Bryan Ferry was on David Byrne. They sound very similar in style and voice when you close your eyes. I'm still amazed Roxy Music has not been inducted. Don't know Prog groups as much as you...Like the big guitars and things. Here's my Top 5 if you include Duran Duran as Prog.
1.Duran Duran 2.Talking Heads 3.Procol Harum 4.Moody Blues 5.Emerson, Lake & Palmer. KING

Posted by KING on Wednesday, 02/10/2016 @ 22:07pm

You wonder what groups like Duran Duran & The Cure have to do to garner a nomination and induction. Duran Duran has done everything that is required for nomination. Paper Gods should have put DD over the top but it did not. It seems Duran Duran should receive a nomination 2016 but groups like The Cars, The Spinners, and Janet Jackson should return to the ballot. Pearl Jam will be the First Time Eligible Nominee. The Cure should have been inducted 5 years ago. It's not looking good for a Duran Duran 2017 induction. KING

Posted by KING on Saturday, 03/26/2016 @ 20:37pm

KING,

Thank you for your response. I have been going out of town for the past several weekends to pick up copies of PROG magazine. I highly recommend purchasing and reading the January, 2016 and February, 2016 issues of PROG magazine.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 03/27/2016 @ 12:35pm

Great to see you back Prog King! There will be plenty of Prog bands with chances of nomination. Yes, Procol Harum, ELP, ELO, etc. Duran Duran has some good competition with Yes, The Cars, Janet Jackson, Los Lobos possibly returning. You were right last year Enig that Duran Duran could use some good testimony from bands who are in HOF or cite them as influences. My sister a big DD fan and has done her share of discussing why DD should be in RRHOF. Can't wait for the great Duran Duran posts. KING

Posted by KING on Monday, 03/28/2016 @ 02:49am

KING,

Thank you. I think that the fact that the "Behind The Music: Remastered" episode featuring Duran Duran, has not been featured in quite a while is a good indication that Duran Duran will finally receive a nomination for induction later this year. Apparently the tactic of airing that particular episode so frequently has finally received the Rock Hall's Nominating Committe's attention. As far as having an excellent track record, I would venture to say that Duran Duran meets many of the qualifications for immediate induction.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 04/30/2016 @ 13:10pm

The big 80's groups who saturated the charts in Top 40 songs like Bruce,MJ,Madonna,U2,Van Halen and the late Prince have been inducted in Rock N Roll HOF some years now. Duran Duran is a notable omission. Even REM has been inducted 1st ballot. Duran Duran took Roxy Music, Bowie, and some other influences and made an innovative and exotic style of music. Most RRHOF inductees have had great musicians and singers in the group. Jimmy Page, Bono, Freddie Mercury, Eddie Van Halen etc. Duran Duran has John Taylor on Bass and Nick on keyboard who have been on lists of top musicians on their instruments. May 2016 Duran Duran remains one of the big mysteries and snubs out there. Duran Duran have set the music trends for years refusing to be placed in a neat rectangular box. This should be the year DD receives a nomination October 2016 or questions must be asked because the group deserves it. KING

Posted by KING on Monday, 05/9/2016 @ 04:00am

KING,

Thank you for your astute observations; I could not possibly agree more. Duran Duran has frequently topped my list of most deserving RRHOF inductions, since Rush had been inducted over 3 years ago. I have written extensively for over 3 years about Duran Duran.

I would certainly like to see Duran Duran in concert in August, but I will forego that concert, in exchange for seeing them finally inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame in Los Angeles next year.

By the way, as of last month, Simon Le Bon and Nick Rhodes have now been writing music and playing together for over 36 years. Is it time to induct Duran Duran into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame? The answer is a resounding, Yes!

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 06/4/2016 @ 08:01am

ENIG
June always a good month for Duran Duran with Nick's birthday June 8 and John's June 20. I'm thinking a Duran Duran chance at nomination 50/50 this year. I feel DD has reached the HOF level like a hitter with 2800 hits or 500 HR. The group going 40 years strong and no signs of slowing down. The Chic & Duran Duran concerts have received strong reviews and DD top of their game. Can't wait for the FRL 2016 guesses at nominations. Usually a fun exercise. My Peter Gabriel & Los Lobos guesses have hit in recent years. KING

Posted by KING on Saturday, 06/4/2016 @ 21:45pm

KING,

Thank you for your continued support of Duran Duran. As next year will mark the 50th anniversary of the progressive rock genre, I think that it is essential for the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame nomination list to be prog heavy.

When I had first started supporting Rush's induction nearly 19 years ago, I was not only supporting Rush, but indirectly every single prog and prog adjacent artist, including The aforementioned Duran Duran. Let's hope that a Los Angeles induction ceremony in 2017, features the following long overdue artists: Duran Duran, The Moody Blues, Yes, Electric Light Orchestra, Sade and Carly Simon.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Friday, 06/24/2016 @ 10:16am

ENIG

Should be one of the most interesting RRHOF nominations 2016. The Chicago and Deep Purple inductions should clear a path for several groups. I'm really hoping Duran Duran and Moody Blues can get nominated and inducted together. The Duran Duran catalog is an amazing listen. You can easily name 50 great songs. Planet Earth, Rio, Ordinary World, Notorious, Union Of The Snake, Pop Trash, Hungry Like The Wolf, Serious,Is There Something I Should Know? The Chauffeur... That's a quick 10. These Duran Duran and Chic concerts have received excellent reviews. Maybe, the FRL regulars can get behind Moody Blues and Duran Duran. DD in their mid 50's now. No spring chickens. Let's have Duran Duran in the RRHOF while they are still in good health and can enjoy the ceremony. KING

Posted by KING on Monday, 06/27/2016 @ 00:43am

KING,

Thank you for your ongoing support of Duran Duran.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 07/2/2016 @ 06:58am

I will be back shortly.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Tuesday, 08/16/2016 @ 23:06pm

Okay, I have been gone longer than I had expected to be. Sometimes one becomes extremely busy with work and unable to post, as a result.

First of all, let me say that I have been a huge supporter of Duran Duran' s induction for more than 4 consecutive years and perhaps, a more passive supporter of their work for nearly 34 consecutive years.

If Duran Duran had only released "Rio," their legacy would have still been important. Fortunately however, Duran Duran has continued to release great recordings for nearly 4 decades. Earlier this year, Duran Duran had celebrated 36 years as a touring entity.

Simon Le Bon and Nick Rhodes have continued to create fascinating, impactful music since that time. Co- founder John Taylor has been there most of the time also. John Taylor is an award winning bassist. Roger Taylor had left Duran Duran for more than a decade, but had returned in the early 21st century. Andy Taylor had left in the mid 1980's, returned in the early 21st century and then had left again. Since that time, Dom Brown has been a hired guitarist for Duran Duran. Prior to that time, Warren Cuccurullo had been their guitarist.

Duran Duran have always had this experimental side to their music and as a result, have been quite a paradox. Unlike many of their contemporaries, Duran Duran are still going strong and creating new musical avenues of expression, nearly 4 decades later.

In my honest opinion, Duran Duran have at least five essential studio recordings in their discography:

Duran Duran (1981)
Rio (1982)
Duran Duran (1993)
Astronaut (2003)
All You Need Is Now (2010)

in addition to a magnificent live album, "A Diamond In The Mind" (2011).

Their most recent recordings have been critically praised. "Paper Gods" shows that Duran Duran has continued to remain relevant.

Duran Duran are influential, innovative and not afraid to create quality music. They indeed have the "progressive" urge.

More than ever, Duran Duran have proven their worthiness for immediate induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame. Let's get them inducted in 2017!

Thank you to KING, Dezmond, DarinRG, Kirk, Nick and numerous others for supporting their induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 08/27/2016 @ 13:06pm

As many of you are well aware, I believe that Duran Duran has long deserved induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame. I have written rather extensively about this for nearly 4 consecutive years. Nearly 20 years ago, on my long archived website, I had written that Duran Duran had been a hybrid of "art rock" and "pop/rock." I have used the terms "art rock" and "progressive rock," interchangeably for several decades.

With their most recent albums having received some level of critical praise, I think that finally much of the so-called music press have finally joined team "Duran Duran." Let's get Duran Duran inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame in 2017.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Friday, 10/14/2016 @ 10:32am

Well, where do I begin?

It did not happen this year. I have been actively supported the nomination and induction of Duran Duran, since the time when Rush had been nominated for induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame in October, 2012. I have also been supporting the nomination of Electric Light Orchestra, as well.

There is still quite obviously, a huge bias against "prog" by the Nominating Committee, unfortunately which has not even garnered a vote for either The Moody Blues, nor Duran Duran.

This is starting to become absurd, Yes should have been, at the very least, inducted the first time that they had been nominated back in 2014. In my honest opinion, the following artists: Duran Duran, The Moody Blues, Procol Harum, Yes, Rush, King Crimson, Jethro Tull, Kansas, ELP, Roxy Music, Supertramp, Gentle Giant and Electric Light Orchestra should have been inducted at least a decade ago. Sade should have been inducted at least 5 years ago. Next year, will mark the 35th anniversary of the release of "Rio," Duran Duran's most important and influential studio album. Next year will also mark the 50th anniversay of the release of "Days Of Future Passed," quite arguably, the first "prog" album.

In 2018, Duran Duran will turn 40. They have outlived most of their so- called contemporaries. It is time for Duran Duran and The Moody Blues to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame. Let's get them inducted in 2018!

Posted by Enigmaticus on Wednesday, 10/19/2016 @ 10:39am

Well, where do I begin?

It did not happen this year. I have been actively supported the nomination and induction of Duran Duran, since the time when Rush had been nominated for induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame in October, 2012. I have also been supporting the nominations and inductions of The Moody Blues, Yes and the Electric Light Orchestra, as well.

There is still quite obviously, a huge bias against "prog" by the Nominating Committee, unfortunately which has not even garnered a vote for either The Moody Blues, nor Duran Duran.

This is starting to become absurd, Yes should have been, at the very least, inducted the first time that they had been nominated back in 2014. In my honest opinion, the following artists: Duran Duran, The Moody Blues, Procol Harum, Yes, Rush, King Crimson, Jethro Tull, Kansas, ELP, Roxy Music, Supertramp, Gentle Giant and Electric Light Orchestra should have been inducted at least a decade ago. Sade should have been inducted at least 5 years ago. Next year, will mark the 35th anniversary of the release of "Rio," Duran Duran's most important and influential studio album. Next year will also mark the 50th anniversary of the release of "Days Of Future Passed," quite arguably, the first "prog" album.

In 2018, Duran Duran will turn 40. They have outlived most of their so- called contemporaries. It is time for Duran Duran and The Moody Blues to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame. Let's get them inducted in 2018!

Posted by Enigmaticus on Wednesday, 10/19/2016 @ 10:46am

Well, where do I begin?

It did not happen this year. I have been actively supporting the nomination and induction of Duran Duran, since the time when Rush had been nominated for induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame in October, 2012. I have also been supporting the nominations and inductions of The Moody Blues, Yes and the Electric Light Orchestra, as well.

There is still quite obviously, a huge bias against "prog" by the Nominating Committee, unfortunately which has not even garnered a vote for either The Moody Blues, nor Duran Duran.

This is starting to become absurd, Yes should have been, at the very least, inducted the first time that they had been nominated back in 2014. In my honest opinion, the following artists: Duran Duran, The Moody Blues, Procol Harum, Yes, Rush, King Crimson, Jethro Tull, Kansas, ELP, Roxy Music, Supertramp, Gentle Giant and Electric Light Orchestra should have been inducted at least a decade ago. Sade should have been inducted at least 5 years ago. Next year, will mark the 35th anniversary of the release of "Rio," Duran Duran's most important and influential studio album. Next year will also mark the 50th anniversary of the release of "Days Of Future Passed," quite arguably, the first "prog" album.

In 2018, Duran Duran will turn 40. They have outlived most of their so-called contemporaries. It is time for Duran Duran and The Moody Blues to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame. Let's get them inducted in 2018!

Posted by Enigmaticus on Thursday, 10/20/2016 @ 00:18am

KING,

Perhaps the Nominating Committee is waiting for the release of "Reportage?"

Posted by Enigmaticus on Friday, 10/21/2016 @ 11:41am

Two out of my essential 5 artists have been nominated for induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame : Yes and Electric Light Orchestra. Unfortunately, my other essential 3: The Moody Blues, Duran Duran and Sade are still waiting outside. In a perfect world, all of these artists should have been inducted when they were first eligible. But the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame does not operate in that manner. On the positive side, in addition to the two previously mentioned "prog" artists, we are receiving another nomination for The Zombies and a nomination for Journey, a "prog" adjacent artist. So out of all nominees for induction 3 are "prog": Yes, Electric Light Orchestra and The Zombies. However, Duran Duran is still waiting outside with most of the remaining prog artists.

I have been an avid actively vocal supporter of Duran Duran's Rock Hall induction for almost 4 years and a more passive supporter of their music for almost 34 years. The fact that Depeche Mode is now receiving a nomination, but contrary to popular opinion, Duran Duran is not and has never been a "synth pop" band. I think that Roger Taylor said it best when he stated that Duran Duran have always been a rock band with synthesizers. Nearly 20 years ago on my now long archived website, I had described them as a hybrid of "prog" and "pop."

So, should I be upset that Depeche Mode has received a nomination before Duran Duran? Maybe, maybe not. I have every confidence that when first nominated, Duran Duran will be nominated and inducted as a "prog" band, much like Rush
had been a few years prior. Please keep in mind that Rush had been described erroneously as a "heavy metal" band for several decades, but they were inducted as a "prog" band.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Monday, 10/24/2016 @ 18:07pm

Two out of my essential 5 artists have been nominated for induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame: Yes and Electric Light Orchestra. Unfortunately, my other essential 3: The Moody Blues, Duran Duran and Sade are still waiting outside. In a perfect world, all of these artists should have been inducted when they were first eligible. But the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame does not operate in that manner. On the positive side, in addition to the two previously mentioned "prog" artists, we are receiving another nomination for The Zombies and a nomination for Journey, a "prog" adjacent artist. So out of all nominees for induction 3 are "prog": Yes, Electric Light Orchestra and The Zombies. However, Duran Duran is still waiting outside with most of the remaining prog artists.

I have been an avid actively vocal supporter of Duran Duran's Rock Hall induction for almost 4 years and a more passive supporter of their music for almost 34 years. The fact that Depeche Mode is now receiving a nomination is somewhat encouraging, but contrary to popular opinion, Duran Duran is not and has never been a "synth pop" band. I think that Roger Taylor said it best when he stated that Duran Duran have always been a rock band with synthesizers. Nearly 20 years ago on my now long archived website, I had described them as a hybrid of "prog," or "art rock" and "pop."

So, should I be upset that Depeche Mode has received a nomination before Duran Duran? Maybe, maybe not. I have every confidence that when first nominated, Duran Duran will be nominated and inducted as a "prog" band, much like Rush
had been a few years prior. Please keep in mind that Rush had been labeled rather erroneously as a "heavy metal" band for several decades, but when they were inducted, they were inducted as a "prog" band.

So why does this make a difference? Why was it important for Rush to be inducted as a progressive rock band? Because this genre has been largely ignored by the Rock Hall for decades. Mike Tiano, a man I greatly admire for supporting Yes for several decades, feels that we should forgive the Rock Hall for ignoring our genre. I am in complete agreement with this, but I still feel that the Rock Hall has a long way to go before the prog cognoscenti will forgive them for snubbing this genre. Hopefully, Duran Duran, The Moody Blues, Procol Harum and Sade will be nominated next year. That will definitely help to patch those major holes and help to improve the Rock Hall's reputation among fellow progressive music aficionados.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Monday, 10/24/2016 @ 18:48pm

So, why does it make a difference? Why was it important for Rush to be inducted as a progressive rock band? Because this particular genre has mostly been ignored for several decades. Mike Tiano, a man whom I greatly admire and respect, says that we should forgive Rolling Stone Magazine for ignoring our genre. I am in complete agreement with this, but I still feel that Rolling Stone Magazine and by extension the Rock Hall, has a long way to go before the prog cognoscenti will forgive them for snubbing this genre. Hopefully, such artists as: The Moody Blues, Procol Harum, Duran Duran and Sade will be nominated for induction next year. This will definitely help to patch those major holes and help to improve the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame's reputation among fellow progressive music aficionados.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Tuesday, 10/25/2016 @ 01:00am

KING,

Why do they keep ignoring Duran Duran? At least, Wikipedia and The Quietus have started reclassifying Duran Duran, as an "art pop" band. That is a major step forward. Now, if only PROG Magazine and Progarchives would get onboard. Now, replace the word art with "progressive," or "prog" and you get, "progressive pop," or "crossover prog"- Duran Duran's genre. By the way, that puts Duran Duran, in the same musical category as Electric Light Orchestra and The Moody Blues.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Wednesday, 10/26/2016 @ 10:38am

Today is the 58th anniversary of the birth of Simon Le Bon.

Happy Birthday, Simon and thank you for all of those great songs which you have written for more than 3 1/2 decades. Thank you also for your generous spirit and for continuing to help those who are less fortunate. Hopefully Nick, John, Roger, Warren, Andy and you will receive a long overdue nomination for induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame next year. Congratulations to all of you for your upcoming A.S.C.A. P. Award. Your songs are timeless.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Thursday, 10/27/2016 @ 04:37am

Today is the 58th anniversary of the birth of Simon Le Bon.

Happy Birthday, Simon and thank you for all of those great songs which you have written for more than 3 1/2 decades. Thank you also for your generous spirit and for continuing to help those who are less fortunate. Hopefully Nick, John, Roger, Warren, Andy and you will receive a long overdue nomination for induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame next year. Congratulations to all of you on your upcoming A.S.C.A.P. Golden Note Award. Overall, your songs are timeless and you are a constant source of inspiration to many people all over the world.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Thursday, 10/27/2016 @ 04:52am

As many of you know, one of my favorite magazines is PROG Magazine, the U.K. publication which covers everything "progressive." I was reading an older article yesterday about how Talking Heads were a "progressive funk" band. I have also been considering the fact that in recent years, such artists as XTC, Tears For Fears, Talk Talk, etc. are considered to be "prog" bands. As great as this happens to be, even PROG magazine ignores Duran Duran. I think that this is really quite unfortunate. The same thing is true of Progarchives, unfortunately. Even if the band members themselves have acknowledged their "prog" side, the major publications have ignored them almost completely. Hopefully, this will change in the not too distant future.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 10/29/2016 @ 08:42am

KING,

Thank you for supporting Duran Duran. I think that the media's criticism of the band has changed in recent years. I do not think that their earlier works have been dismissed as much as they had been previously. I also think that John Taylor's most recent statement about Duran Duran always having had a dark, progressive side helps to explain their longevity. Generally speaking, many "progressive rock" bands have had very long careers, Pink Floyd had been in existence for nearly 50 years. The Moody Blues are approaching their 50th year as a "progressive rock" band. Yes and Rush are both 48 years old. Styx is 44 years old. E.L.O. is 44 years old. Kansas has been in existence for 43 years. Duran Duran is 38 years old. Longevity appears to be part of the DNA of "art rock/progressive rock" bands.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Friday, 11/4/2016 @ 10:31am

Unfortunately, even among the enlightened staff at PROG Magazine, Duran Duran is still a tough sell.

On page 30 of Issue 70 of PROG Magazine, Mark McCaughrean asks, "But why the hell did I start listening to Duran Duran? Well I did...."

My response to Mark would be.

Well, Mark you started listening to Duran Duran because you were attracted to progressive rock. You have already mentioned that you had liked the music of Yes, Genesis and Japan. Underneath the fashion and pop sensibilities, beats the heart of a prog band. Whether you would wish to call them "progressive pop," "synthpop," or perhaps even "art pop," Duran Duran represents that perfect hybrid between "prog"
and "pop."

Posted by Enigmati on Saturday, 11/5/2016 @ 11:22am

KING,

Thank you for supporting Duran Duran. I think that the media's criticism of the band has changed in recent years. I do not think that their earlier works have been dismissed as much as they had been previously. I also think that John Taylor's most recent statement about Duran Duran always having had a dark, progressive side helps to explain their longevity. Generally speaking, many "progressive rock" bands have had very long careers, Pink Floyd had been in existence for nearly 50 years. The Moody Blues are approaching their 50th year as a "progressive rock" band. Yes and Rush are both 48 years old. Styx is 44 years old. E.L.O. is 46 years old. Kansas has been in existence for 44 years. Duran Duran is now 38 years old. Longevity appears to be part of the DNA of "art rock/progressive rock" bands.

Posted by Duran Duran on Saturday, 11/5/2016 @ 11:35am

Cheese-tastic band, at best.

Posted by Ryan on Saturday, 11/5/2016 @ 13:47pm

I find it hilarious that Enigmaticus just posted under the name "Duran Duran" 2 posts ago.

Posted by Classic Rock on Saturday, 11/5/2016 @ 16:16pm

Enigmaticus has at least 4 personalities.....

Posted by Ryan on Saturday, 11/5/2016 @ 16:47pm

Unfortunately, even among the enlightened staff at PROG Magazine, Duran Duran is still a tough sell.

On page 30 of Issue 70 of PROG Magazine, Mark McCaughrean asks, "But why the hell did I start listening to Duran Duran? Well I did...."

My response to Mark would be.

Well, Mark you started listening to Duran Duran because you had been attracted to progressive rock. You have already mentioned that you had liked the music of Yes, Genesis and Japan. Underneath the thin veneer of their fashion and pop sensibilities, beats the heart of a prog band. Whether you would wish to call them "progressive pop," "synthpop," or perhaps even "art pop," Duran Duran represents that perfect hybrid between "prog" and "pop." Perhaps, we should just re-identify Duran Duran as "crossover prog," for once and for all?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 11/5/2016 @ 17:08pm

Duran Duran has been described as a mall version of Roxy Music. Duran Duran has been critically derided as a "boy band." Duran Duran has even been incorrectly called a throwaway pop band. If the members of Duran Duran had not been so photogenic, it's highly unlikely that they would have become so successful on MTV and their stratospheric career would probably not have taken off. But outside of the thin veneer of their image, lays a band who has the remarkable ability to write popular, catchy and memorable songs. From any artist's standpoint this is very difficult thing to do.

Next year, Duran Duran will celebrate the 39th anniversary since their formation as a band. Simon Le Bon and Nick Rhodes have been writing songs together for nearly 37 years. During these past few decades, they have continued to release new and innovative music.

Even though Simon Le Bon has only been a member of Duran Duran since 1980, his ability to sing and play the guitar goes back as far perhaps as before 1970.

Whatever you may wish to say about them, Duran Duran has been worthy of Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame induction since 2006. Next year will mark the 11th year of their eligibility. Let's get Duran Duran inducted into the Rock Hall in 2018.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 11/5/2016 @ 17:42pm

ClassicRock,

I absolutely find it particularly hilarious that I had done that also.

Ryan, I don't have 4 personalities; instead, I have 256. Just kidding. ;-p

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 11/5/2016 @ 17:53pm

duran duran a pop band or exotic pop or something not progressive seems like a grasp of straws to say they are prog 40 yrs later solid pop band but are dd prince, queen, zeppelin, who, david bowie...no they are not not to that level deserve consideration give duran duran b+ discography

Posted by vick on Sunday, 11/6/2016 @ 03:56am

Duran Duran has been described as a mall version of Roxy Music. Duran Duran has been critically derided as a "boy band." Duran Duran has even been incorrectly called a throwaway pop band. If the members of Duran Duran had not been so photogenic, it's highly unlikely that they would have become so successful on MTV and their stratospheric career would probably not have taken off. But outside of the thin veneer of their image, lays a band who has the remarkable ability to write popular, catchy and memorable songs. From any artist's standpoint this is a very difficult thing to do.

Next year, Duran Duran will celebrate the 39th anniversary since their formation as a band. Simon Le Bon and Nick Rhodes have been writing songs together for nearly 37 years. During these past few decades, they have continued to release new and innovative music.

Even though Simon Le Bon has only been a member of Duran Duran since 1980, his ability to sing and play the guitar goes back as far perhaps as before 1970.

Whatever you may wish to say about them, Duran Duran has been worthy of Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame induction since 2006. Next year will mark the 11th year of their eligibility. Let's get Duran Duran inducted into the Rock Hall in 2018.

Unfortunately, even among the enlightened staff at PROG Magazine, Duran Duran is still a tough sell.

On page 30 of Issue 70 of PROG Magazine, Mark McCaughrean asks, "But why the hell did I start listening to Duran Duran? Well I did...."

My response to Mark would be.

Well, Mark you started listening to Duran Duran because you had been attracted to progressive rock. You have already mentioned that you had liked the music of Yes, Genesis and Japan. Underneath the thin veneer of their fashion and pop sensibilities, beats the heart of a prog band. Whether you would wish to call them "progressive pop," "synthpop," or perhaps even "art pop," Duran Duran represents that perfect hybrid between "prog" and "pop." Perhaps, we should just re-identify Duran Duran as "crossover prog," for once and for all?

Thank you for supporting Duran Duran. I think that the media's criticism of the band has changed in recent years. I do not think that their earlier works have been dismissed as much as they had been previously. I also think that John Taylor's most recent statement about Duran Duran always having had a dark, progressive side helps to explain their longevity. Generally speaking, many "progressive rock" bands have had very long careers, Pink Floyd had been in existence for nearly 50 years. The Moody Blues are approaching their 50th year as a "progressive rock" band. Yes and Rush are both 48 years old. Styx is 44 years old. E.L.O. is 46 years old. Kansas has been in existence for 44 years. Duran Duran is now 38 years old. King Crimson has been in and out of existence for 47 years. Longevity appears to be part of the DNA of "art rock/progressive rock" bands.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 11/6/2016 @ 18:33pm

I have been listening to "Greatest" lately. I think that it is a phenomenal collection of Duran Duran's best pre-2000 songs. I am hoping that Duran Duran will release a cd of the greatest songs from 2000 forward, in addition to "Reportage" and a BluRay collection of their videos, as well.

Since, Duran Duran had still not been selected for nomination into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame, they have now waited for more than a decade for their nomination and induction. Even so, Duran Duran has continued to create exciting and innovative songs. They have decided not to rest on their
laurels. Let's induct Duran Duran into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame in 2018.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Thursday, 11/10/2016 @ 09:31am

In the new Rush documentary, "Rush: Time Stand Still," the question had been raised about what artists have had a 40 year long career and had managed to still remain relevant?

Other than Rush, I can think of only a few other artists, including Duran Duran. Next year, Duran Duran will turn 40 and Rush, formerly known as "The Projection" will turn 50. Yes, that's correct, Rush and Duran Duran are both very old bands. Unlike many of their contemporaries however, Rush and Duran have continued to make relevant music and have not rested on their laurels, nor have they become "nostalgia acts."

I am hoping that Yes, Electric Light Orchestra and The Zombies will be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame in 2017. I think that these inductions will help quite a few "PROG" bands in the future, including Duran Duran. I also think that it is absolutely imperative for the Rush fan base to support these artists.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 11/26/2016 @ 13:33pm

In the new Rush documentary, "Rush: Time Stand Still," the question had been raised about what artists have had nearly a 40 year long career and had managed to still remain relevant?

Other than Rush, I can think of only a few other artists, including Duran Duran. In 2018, Duran Duran will turn 40 and Rush, formerly known as "The Projection" will turn 50. Yes, that's correct, Rush and Duran Duran are both very old bands. Unlike many of their contemporaries however, Rush and Duran have continued to make relevant music and have not rested on their laurels, nor have they become "nostalgia acts."

I am hoping that Yes, Electric Light Orchestra and The Zombies will be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame in 2017. I think that these inductions will help quite a few "PROG" bands in the future, including Duran Duran. I also think that it is absolutely imperative for the Rush fan base to support these artists.

If we were to arbitrarily suggest that Duran Duran could have been inducted into the Rock Hall, between 25 years to 30 years after the release of their pivotal album, "Rio" then Duran Duran should have been inducted between 2007 and 2012. However, 2017 will mark the 35th anniversary of the release of "Rio," instead and Duran Duran has still not received a nomination. Perhaps next year, that situation will finally change.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 11/27/2016 @ 12:28pm

Is Duran Duran any good? I'm only 18 and my parents used to play them once in a while in the car.

Posted by Lebron23 on Friday, 12/2/2016 @ 21:47pm

LeBron23,

Duran Duran are an outstanding band.

Unfortunately, I think that in their early days they were pigeonholed into being a "boy band," or perhaps even "throwaway assembly line pop" due perhaps to the scream fest encountered during their early shows. But since then, even their harshest critics have become much more acceptable of their output and our new regarding many of their older songs, such as: 'Hungry Like The Wolf' and 'Save A Prayer' for example, as classics.

Since those early days, Duran Duran has released numerous timeless songs, including: 'Ordinary World,' 'Come Undone,' ''Pop Trash Movie,' What Happens Tomorrow,' 'What Are The Chances,' et cetera.

Of course, in my honest opinion, "Rio" is a Classic Rock album, but then so are: "Duran Duran" (1981), "Duran Duran (1993)" aka, "The Wedding Album," "Pop Trash," (2000) "Astronaut," (2004) "All You Need Is Now" (2010) and "Paper Gods"(2015). In addition to those albums, I highly recommend their live presentations, "A Diamond In The Mind Live 2011" (2012) and "Duran Duran: Unstaged."

I have written rather extensively about Duran Duran for nearly 4 consecutive years on this website.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 12/3/2016 @ 14:10pm

LeBron 23,

Thank you for asking about Duran Duran.

LeBron23,

Duran Duran are an outstanding band.

Unfortunately, I think that in their early days they were pigeonholed into being a "boy band," or perhaps even "throwaway assembly line pop" due perhaps to the scream fest encountered during their early shows. But since then, even their harshest critics have become much more acceptable of their output and our new regarding many of their older songs, such as: 'Hungry Like The Wolf' and 'Save A Prayer' for example, as classics.

Since those early days, Duran Duran has released numerous timeless songs, including: 'Ordinary World,' 'Come Undone,' 'Pop Trash Movie,' What Happens Tomorrow,' 'What Are The Chances,' et cetera.

Of course, in my honest opinion, "Rio" is a Classic Rock album, but then so are: "Duran Duran" (1981), "Duran Duran (1993)" aka, "The Wedding Album," "Pop Trash," (2000) "Astronaut," (2004) "All You Need Is Now" (2010) and "Paper Gods"(2015). In addition to those albums, I highly recommend their live presentations, "A Diamond In The Mind Live 2011" (2012) and "Duran Duran: Unstaged."

I have written rather extensively about Duran Duran for nearly 4 consecutive years on this website. I am also a huge supporter of Duran Duran's induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 12/3/2016 @ 14:14pm

Thanks Enigmaticus for the info. Sounds like a band I should listen to.

Posted by Lebron23 on Saturday, 12/3/2016 @ 16:27pm

LeBron23,

You are very welcome.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 12/3/2016 @ 16:52pm

Contrary to popular opinion, Duran Duran is not a "throwaway pop band," nor a "boy band," nor a "synth pop," nor a "new wave" band and they never have been. For years and years, Rush had been similarly described as a "heavy metal," or a "hard rock" band, they were neither. No, ladies and gentlemen, both Rush and Duran Duran are major "progressive rock" bands and they have been, since their respective beginnings. So why have both of these bands been marginalized for such a long time?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Wednesday, 12/7/2016 @ 09:18am

As we approach the 20th anniversary of my long-archived website, AKD's Art Rock Site, I think that it is necessary to reevaluate Duran Duran as a major "progressive rock" artist. I have already placed Duran Duran in eighth position on my list of favorite PROG artists.

By the way, In a relatively recent article in the Minneapolis Star Tribune, bassist John Taylor has described Duran Duran as a progressive band with hit singles.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 12/10/2016 @ 13:05pm

With the recent passings of both Keith Emerson and Greg Lake, I thought that it was prudent to revise my list of 20 favorite "PROG" artists:

01. Rush
02. Yes
03. The Moody Blues
04. Pink Floyd
05. Jethro Tull
06. Emerson, Lake & Palmer
07. King Crimson
08. Duran Duran
09. Gentle Giant
10. Genesis
11. Talking Heads
12. Electric Light Orchestra
13. Renaissance
14. Peter Gabriel
15. Kansas
16. Supertramp
17. Procol Harum
18. Alan Parsons Project
19. Styx
20. Asia
Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 12.10.16 @ 12:14pm

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 12/10/2016 @ 13:25pm

After the 2017 Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame induction ceremony, it will be necessary to consider three hugely influential artists for next year's nomination: The Moody Blues, Duran Duran and Sade.

The Moody Blues have been described as the first PROG band. They were hugely influential on the music of: Rush, Yes, Genesis, ELP, King Crimson, Gentle Giant. etc.
The Moody Blues will receive the votes of many classic rockers, plus the PROG aficionados. The Moody Blues are considered an egregious snub.

Duran Duran are also hugely influential, they have taken the styles of David Bowie and Roxy Music and have risen to the occasion. Duran Duran has taken "progressive pop" to new levels of complexity and mass appeal. The members of Rush also really like Duran Duran.
Duran Duran also has crossover appeal, they will receive support from the "PROG" community, in addition to those who like good dance and pop songs. The members of Duran Duran have even described themselves as a "modern progressive band. "

Sade has even more crossover appeal.They will receive votes from the classic rock, PROG and jazz aficionados, as well as many rhythm and blues fans. Sade does not hesitate to employ the instrumentation needed, in order to carry out their vision.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 12/17/2016 @ 15:05pm

Nearly twenty years ago, I said that Duran Duran was a hybrid of symphonic/progressive/art rock and pop. It appears that I was correct.

Rush was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame as a progressive rock band in 2013. Yes should be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame as a progressive rock band in 2017. Duran Duran and The Moody Blues should be inducted into Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame as PROG bands in 2018.

So why was Duran Duran marginalized for so many decades?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 12/18/2016 @ 12:23pm

Duran Duran began New Wave just as Pearl Jam began the grunge movement. Yet, Duran's influence has lasted to this day and you'd be hard pressed to find anyone who remembers Pearl Jam today. Pearl Jam made it in this year. They had one good album and the rest crap. Duran produced great albums until the breakup. If PJ is in, DD should be in without question.

Posted by BondDurany on Wednesday, 12/21/2016 @ 03:23am

BondDurany,

I do not disagree with your assertion that Duran Duran should receive immediate induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame. In my honest opinion, any artist, or band which continues to make interesting, innovative and influential music for nearly four decades deserves to be immediately inducted into the Rock Hall. Unfortunately, Duran Duran has been seen as primarily a "throw away, or assembly line" pop band throughout much of their existence. In recent years, opinions have slowly started to change about Duran Duran. They have a legacy of great music which still continues to this day. However, unfortunately, only "Rio" has been viewed as a "Classic Album." I think that a critical re-evaluation of Duran Duran's music needs to be accomplished which recognizes the merit of their individual albums. After this has been done, hopefully a Rock Hall nomination will be forthcoming. I think that it might also behoove Duran Duran to release their unreleased masterpiece, "Reportage."

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 12/24/2016 @ 04:35am

After much consideration, I have decided to move Duran Duran up to the fifth position on my list of favorite progressive rock artists from eighth. Here is the revised list:


01. Rush
02. Yes
03. The Moody Blues
04. King Crimson
05. Duran Duran
06. Pink Floyd
07. Jethro Tull
08. Emerson, Lake & Palmer
09. Gentle Giant
10. Genesis
11. Talking Heads
12. Electric Light Orchestra
13. Renaissance
14. Kansas
15. Peter Gabriel
16. Procol Harum
17. Supertramp
18. Alan Parsons Project
19. Styx
20. Asia

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 12/24/2016 @ 14:06pm

Wow, adding this posting, There will now be 525 postings about Duran Duran on this webpage. Since February 3, 2013, I have written many of them, actually approximately 283 of them.

So why have I put forth this effort? Why do I want to see Duran Duran inducted and why do I continue to support Duran Duran?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Monday, 01/2/2017 @ 12:22pm

That story and more at 11.

Posted by Philip on Monday, 01/2/2017 @ 12:34pm

And 271 of those 283 posts incorrectly refer to Duran Duran as a prog band. ;)

Posted by DarinRG on Tuesday, 01/3/2017 @ 15:36pm

DarinRG,

Actually, Duran Duran has always been a prog band. Try this link for size:

www.telegraph.co.uk/music/artists/duran-duran-interview


"The resolidified foursome have remained intact now for four albums and 15 years. They see themselves as back for good, and as a modern progressive band. And they are prepared to put in the legwork to underpin their relevance and vitality."

Posted by Enigmaticus on Wednesday, 01/4/2017 @ 00:08am

In my honest opinion, two of the recent songs from "Paper Gods," should join my list of favorite Duran Duran songs: 'What Are The Chances' and 'The Universe Alone.' The list is still a work in progress, but it is now starting to look somewhat like this:

01. Ordinary World
02. What Are The Chances?
03. What Happens Tomorrow
04. The Man Who Stole A Leopard
05. The Chauffeur
06. The Universe Alone
07. Rio
08. Pop Trash Movie
09. New Moon On Monday
10. Before The Rain
11. Come Undone
12. View To A Kill
13. Girl Panic
14. Is There Something I Should Know?
15. Mediterranea
16. Pressure Off
17. All You Need Is Now
18. Hungry Like The Wolf
19. A Diamond In The Mind
20. New Religion

Posted by Enigmaticus on Thursday, 01/5/2017 @ 09:38am

ENIG.

Enjoyed your Duran Duran list of great and FAV songs. Wrote mine here around a year ago. I probably put Ordinary World #1 Notorious #2 Rio #3 Is There Something I Should Know? #4 Pop Trash Movie #5. Agree on The Chauffeur. That's One of Their First. I always thought of Duran Duran's music as exotic. Can hear the Roxy Music & Bowie influences in their songs. It's about time they receive a nomination. The Cars have now received 2 nominations. It's time for Duran Duran. KING

Posted by KING on Monday, 01/9/2017 @ 01:49am

KING,

I am glad that we both agree that 'Ordinary World' is Duran Duran's best song. Lately, I have become rather impressed with 'What Are The Chances?' from Paper Gods. Overall, I think this particular song is the best song on "Paper Gods" and their second best song overall. Yes, I do agree that Duran Duran definitely deserves to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame, also.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Monday, 01/9/2017 @ 02:37am

KING,

Thank you for your response. I can definitely see the influence of Roxy Music on Duran Duran, but I can also see the influence of artists such as: The Moody Blues on Duran Duran, as well.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Tuesday, 01/10/2017 @ 01:09am

I don't see a nomination coming any time soon. And even if they did make the ballot, they likely wouldn't get voted in.

Posted by Hopper on Tuesday, 01/10/2017 @ 06:02am

Hopper,

Are you aware of any of Duran Duran's output, since "Seven And The Ragged Tiger?"

Posted by Enigmaticus on Tuesday, 01/10/2017 @ 09:25am

As we approach the 20th anniversary of the beginning of the creation of my long-archived website and the 50th anniversary of the birth of "progressive rock," I am slightly amazed by the changes in the world of Rock & Roll.

I do not believe that Rock, nor "prog" is dead, either as evinced by the relatively recent releases of "Clockwork Angels" by Rush and "Paper Gods" and "All You Need Is Now" by Duran Duran.

Although Rush's recording time may be diminishing somewhat, Duran Duran is still a viable entity. The members of Duran Duran are looking forward to moving "prog" forward. I think that is the ultimate endeavor for such a previously critically reviled band to accomplish. However, some of their harshest critics are now started to review their works more favorably. I think that this will lead to a nomination for Duran Duran later this year and an induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame in 2018.

What do you, think?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Tuesday, 01/10/2017 @ 09:42am

As we approach the 20th anniversary of the beginning of the creation of my long-archived website and the 50th anniversary of the birth of "progressive rock," I am slightly amazed by the changes in the world of Rock & Roll.

I do not believe that Rock, nor "prog" is dead, either as evinced by the relatively recent releases of "Clockwork Angels" by Rush and "Paper Gods" and "All You Need Is Now" by Duran Duran.

Although Rush's recording time may be diminishing somewhat, Duran Duran is still a viable entity. The members of Duran Duran are looking forward to moving "prog" forward. I think that is the ultimate endeavor for such a previously critically reviled band to accomplish. However, some of their harshest critics have now started to review their works more favorably. I think that this will lead to a nomination for Duran Duran later this year and an induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame in 2018.

What do you, think?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Tuesday, 01/10/2017 @ 09:45am

I have also listened to "Paper Gods" more recently. Other than 'Danceaphobia,' which is an interesting little track, most of the songs on "Paper Gods" are very good and a few of them are masterpieces: 'What Are The Chances?' Is definitely a masterpiece, but then so are: 'The Universe Alone,' 'Pressure Off,' 'Paper Gods,' 'Last Night In The City' and 'You Kill Me With Silence.' Overall, I think that "Paper Gods" deserves a rating of (****1/2).

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 01/29/2017 @ 12:06pm

I have also listened to "Paper Gods" more recently. Other than 'Danceaphobia,' which is an interesting little track, most of the songs on "Paper Gods" are very good and quite a few of them are masterpieces: 'What Are The Chances?' is definitely a masterpiece, it is also, in my honest opinion, the greatest song on this album and the second greatest song in Duran Duran's discography, only bettered slightly by 'Ordinary World.'

Other masterpieces on this album, include: 'The Universe Alone,' 'Pressure Off,' 'Paper Gods,' 'Last Night In The City' and 'You Kill Me With Silence.' Overall, I think that "Paper Gods" deserves a rating of (****1/2).

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 01/29/2017 @ 12:13pm

Overall, I think that Duran Duran has certainly done enough during the course of their long illustrious career, to warrant an immediate long overdue induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame. What do you, think?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 02/25/2017 @ 14:23pm

Nope.

Posted by Hopper on Saturday, 02/25/2017 @ 14:52pm

It's a no for Duran2.

If they were going to be nominated, it would've been in 2016.
Sorry about that Enig or Ben of whatever alias you use today.

Posted by Mike on Sunday, 02/26/2017 @ 12:48pm

Yes, they'll be inducted. It might be a few years, though.

Posted by dmg on Sunday, 02/26/2017 @ 13:53pm

I would definitely like to thank Pearl Jam bassist Jeff Ament for listing Duran Duran and King Crimson on his t-shirt of Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame nubs.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Monday, 05/22/2017 @ 10:03am

May 10, 2017 was the 35th anniversary of the original release of "Rio," quite arguably Duran Duran's finest recording.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Tuesday, 05/30/2017 @ 09:19am

There has always been much more to Duran Duran than what immediately meets the eye. Certainly there are those appealing videos with the scantily clad supermodels, but there is also their musical legacy. If bassist John Taylor wants to describe Duran Duran as a "progressive band with hit singles," then who am I to argue with that point?

Nearly twenty years ago, I had described Duran Duran's music as a hybrid of "prog" and "pop," on my now long- archived website:

"Why a page devoted to Duran Duran? An eighties teen idol group for girls? This wasn't really serious music that they had created; was it? It was danceable, but the very intelligent lyrics written by Simon Le Bon gave them a different type of danceable music! This group obviously liked to experiment with different styles. On some songs, the pop rhythms owe a great deal to ethnic music; others deal with acoustic interplay, some with soul, others with a more arty approach! Certainly this group consisted of musicians who had possessed the good looks of models, but their music was infectiously entertaining! Some of their best songs, e.g. 'Save A Prayer' from "Rio" and 'Ordinary World' have represented outstanding musicianship. Sure, they had relied upon synthesizers and yes, they had dominated "Music Television" in the early days, with their well-produced videos. However, their music owed more to the melodicism of Roxy Music & David Bowie (in fact, the vocals on 'New Moon On Monday' sound a great deal like David Bowie) and symphonic rock, "art rock/pop rock," etc. than just to the sound of the 1980's time period when New Wave artists predominated after the demise of punk."

With a few wording changes, that was what I had written about Duran Duran nearly 20 years ago.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 06/10/2017 @ 07:52am

ENIG

I think if you asked the average music fan about Duran Duran's music they would say they were New Wave or British Pop or in the new Romantics genre. Don't see early Duran Duran as Prog although they did use strings in Ordinary World and Pop Trash Movie. My only complaint with Duran Duran is I wish they had a harder edge guitar sound. Like Priest/Maiden. I have to admit Duran Duran needs a good advocate RRHOF. Look how long Roxy Music has been waiting. Definitely 50/50 if Duran Duran will be in my final 20 or 22 nomination list. Early Birthday wishes to John Taylor June 20. KING

Posted by KING on Friday, 06/16/2017 @ 02:03am

I would like to extend my most sincere condiolences to Simon Le Bon, his family and friends, due to the recent passing of his mother, Anne Marie. I know how difficult It is difficult enough to lose one parent. :-(

Hopefully, the members of Duran Duran will be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame next year.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 07/16/2017 @ 03:19am

I would like to extend my most sincere condiolences to Simon Le Bon, his family and friends, due to the recent passing of his mother, Anne Marie. I know how exceedingly difficult It is to lose one parent. :-(

Hopefully, the members of Duran Duran will be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame next year.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Monday, 07/17/2017 @ 06:51am

I would like to extend my most sincere condolences to Simon Le Bon, his family and friends, due to the recent passing of his mother, Anne Marie. I know how exceedingly difficult It is to lose one parent. :-(

Hopefully, the members of Duran Duran will be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame next year.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 07/23/2017 @ 00:21am

I have also written rather extensively about Duran Duran for several years:

Rush's upcoming induction will also increase the probability of Duran Duran being nominated, if not inducted next year.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 02.3.13 @ 16:11pm

I would definitely like to thank Pearl Jam bassist Jeff Ament for listing Duran Duran and King Crimson on his t-shirt of Rock &
Roll Hall Of Fame snubs.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Monday, 05.22.17 @ 10:03am

So, yes I am very interested in watching the induction of Duran Duran into the Rock & Roll of Fame in 2018.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Tuesday, 09/26/2017 @ 11:55am

Ben and KING,

I am very disappointed that Duran Duran has still not yet received a nomination. Hopefully, the possible induction of Eurythmics, will change this situation accordingly.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 10/8/2017 @ 21:46pm

Today is the 59th anniversary of the birth of Simon Le Bon. Happy Birthday, Simon and thank you for all of the great songs that you have co-written for more than 35 years. Thank you you lyrics, your humanitarian pursuits and for choosing to remain innovative and experimental.

The members of Duran Duran definitely deserve immediate induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Friday, 10/27/2017 @ 10:53am

Today is the 59th anniversary of the birth of Simon Le Bon. Happy Birthday, Simon and thank you for all of the great songs that you have co-written for more than 35 years. Thank you for your lyrics, your humanitarian pursuits and for choosing to remain innovative and experimental.

The members of Duran Duran definitely deserve immediate induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame. Hopefully, you will be nominated next year and inducted into the Rock Hall in 2019.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 10/28/2017 @ 00:02am

I had just wanted to mention this.

As many of you are well aware, I am a huge supporter of Duran Duran’s induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame. Duran Duran is a significant group and they highly deserve this honor. However, an article in The Mercury News, titled “Duran Duran make case for Rock Hall in Oakland by pop music critic Jim Harrington had raised my ire, when he said this:

“The British act, which was also scheduled to perform July 8 at The Masonic in San Francisco, certainly deserves the honor more than a number of acts that have managed to make it into the Rock Hall over that same time span.

Want me to name names? OK, fine. I’d vote for Duran Duran above Cheap Trick, Journey, Hall & Oates and Deep Purple, for starters. And, let’s face it, “Save a Prayer” is worth more than Rush’s entire catalog.

Here was my response:


Jim,

Although, I agree that Duran Duran has definitely deserved induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame for several years and that I have been a major supporter of that endeavor, I would never ever say that 'Save A Prayer' is worth more than Rush's entire catalog. That statement may be true of most of Rush's songs from their earliest days from albums preceding "A Farewell To Kings," such as the highly overrated "2112," "Caress Of Steel," "Fly By Night" and their debut album, however since then, Rush has created a plethora of great songs. Since, both Rush and Duran Duran have the distinction of being "prog" bands, one should never pit the former against the other. In case you are unaware, 'Save A Prayer' may be a great song, but it is not even Duran Duran's best song. That distinction, in my honest opinion, goes to 'Ordinary World.' The same is true of 'Tom Sawyer,' by Rush. Although, 'Tom Sawyer' is a great song, Rush has fifty better songs in their catalog. I suggest very strongly that you listen to Rush's more recent studio albums, such as : "Roll The Bones," "Presto," "Power Windows," "Clockwork Angels" and "Snakes & Arrows" in their entirety and Rush's two greatest live albums, "Exit... Stage Left" and "Clockwork Angels Tour" before making such a bold and perhaps ridiculously absurd statement. In my honest opinion, these are Rush's 20 greatest songs: 'Xanadu,' 'Dreamline,' 'Ghost of a Chance,' 'Available Light,' 'The Garden,' 'Mystic Rhythms,' 'Jacob's Ladder,' 'The Camera Eye,' 'Losing It,' 'Faithless,' 'La Villa Strangiato,' 'Time & Motion,' 'Prime Mover,' 'Nobody's Hero,' 'Red Lenses,' 'Bravado,' 'Red Tide,' 'The Wreckers,' 'Middletown Dreams' and 'Roll The Bones. '

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 11/5/2017 @ 16:18pm

Yesterday was the 50th anniversary of the release of “Days Of Future Passed,” The Moody Blues’ pioneering prog album.

Five decades afterwards, only a few of the prog bands still exist. It is encouraging that there are still two major prog bands left who are still making great and innovative music: Rush and Duran Duran.

Regarding Duran Duran:

The resolidified foursome have remained intact now for four albums and 15 years. They see themselves as back for good, and as a modern, progressive band. And they are prepared to put in the legwork to underpin their relevance and vitality.

It’s always encouraging to see this, especially since both Duran Duran and Rush are “children” of The Moody Blues.

Let the torch initially lit by The Moody Blues over 50 years ago, continue to light the progressive flame for several generations to come. Allow Rush the honor of inducting their fathers into the Rock Hall next year and do not forget to honor Duran Duran with a long overdue induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame in 2019.

Thank you Philip, for your recent comments on The Moody Blues in your Rock Hall monitor’s blog.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 11/12/2017 @ 12:15pm

So, for several years I have not only been actively supporting Duran Duran’s induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame, but also my assertion that Duran Duran is also a major “progressive rock” band.

Twenty years ago, I had written that Duran Duran was a hybrid of prog and pop. You may ask, what had led me to make such a seemingly outrageous statement?

Well, I am an aficionado of progressive rock, for one. If I hear something by a band which I deem to be progressive, then I am going to further explore that band. ‘Ordinary World,’ which I consider to be Duran Duran’s greatest song had really impressed me. Then I lost track of Duran Duran, until the release of “Astronaut.” ‘What Happens Tomorrow’ is another brilliant song by Duran Duran; it is third on my list of favorite Duran Duran songs. Once again, I had lost track of Duran Duran until I had heard their brilliant album, “All You Need Is Now.” This release had inspired me to purchase and revisit Duran Duran’s earlier work. As far as more recent Duran Duran albums are concerned, I felt that “Pop Trash” was also an excellent album. In my honest opinion, ‘Pop Trash Movie’ is another brilliant track. Their most recent live recording, “A Diamond On The Mind: Live 2011” had showed me just how extraordinary Duran Duran happens to be in concert. I had been absolutely blown away, metaphorically speaking, when I had seen and heard this concert on dvd and BluRay. Then, Duran Duran had released “Paper Gods,” their most recent recording. Initially, I was enthralled and thoroughly amazed by ‘What Are The Chances,’ which I now consider to be Duran Duran’s second greatest song.

Earlier this week, I had searched YouTube for ‘Classical Gas’ by Mason Williams, an absolutely masterful symphonic pop instrumental. In my honest opinion, The extraordinarily brilliant, ‘The Garden’ by Rush from “Clockwork Angels” and ‘What Are The Chances’ by Duran Duran share the same musical DNA with this song. Duran Duran and Rush also share much of their musical DNA with The Moody Blues. What, do you think?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Thursday, 11/23/2017 @ 14:41pm

I had needed to amend a portion of my previous posting.

“.....

Their most recent live recording, “A Diamond In The Mind: Live 2011” had showed me just how extraordinary Duran Duran happens to be in concert. I had been absolutely blown away by this, metaphorically speaking, when I had heard this live recording on DVD and BluRay. Unfortunately, the full version of this magnificent concert is still not yet available on compact disc. A few years later, Duran Duran had released “Paper Gods,” their most recent studio recording. My favorite song from “Paper Gods” happens to be ‘What Are The Chances?’
Initially, I was enthralled and thoroughly amazed by ‘What Are The Chances?,’ which I have considered to be Duran Duran’s second greatest song. One still hopes that Duran Duran will release a live version of the “Paper Gods” tour and perhaps “Reportage,” sometime next year.”

Earlier this week, I had searched youtube for a visual recording of ‘Classical Gas,’ by Mason Williams, an absolutely masterful symphonic pop instrumental. In my honest opinion, the extraordinarily brilliant ‘The Garden’ by Rush and the phenomenally magnificent, ‘What Are The Chances?’ by Duran Duran share the same musical DNA with this song. Duran Duran and Rush also share much of their musical DNA with The Moody Blues. What, do you think?

Posted by Enigmatic on Friday, 11/24/2017 @ 10:34am

Seeing a plethora of 1980’s era acts, including Depeche Mode, Eurythmics, Dire Straits and The Cars on this year’s Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame Nomination Ballot, I think that this bodes well for a nomination for Duran Duran in the not too distant future. .

Of course, one could argue that Duran Duran has been very different from many of their contemporaries, that is the primary reason why they have endured for nearly 40 years. So, what exactly is that difference? Why has Duran Duran endured why many of their so-called contemporaries have faded away?

Their is one particular reason why Duran Duran is still around nearly 40 years later.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 12/3/2017 @ 14:42pm

I am somewhat excited to see a plethora of 1980’s era acts, including Depeche Mode, Eurythmics, Dire Straits and The Cars on this year’s Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame Nomination Ballot. I think that this bodes well for a nomination for Duran Duran in the not too distant future.

Of course, one could argue that Duran Duran has been very different from many of their contemporaries, that is the primary reason why they have endured for nearly 40 years. So, what exactly is that difference? Why has Duran Duran endured whereas many of their so-called contemporaries have faded away?

I think that there is one particular reason why Duran Duran is still around nearly 40 years later. Duran Duran is a prog band
and they have been since their very beginning. Unlike many of
their so-called contemporaries, the members of Duran Duran have had the insight to keep experimenting with their music, over the past several decades; they have the desire to continue to create great and timeless songs and not rest on their laurels.

Well, what do you think?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 12/3/2017 @ 14:50pm

I think you should do more research on Depeche Mode.

Posted by The_Claw on Monday, 12/4/2017 @ 12:38pm

The 2018 Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame induction class features the long overdue “prog” fathers, the innovative arty classic rock/new wave band, The Cars and the innovative guitar expertise of Dire Straits. It also features the great late Sister Rosetta Tharpe as an early influence and the late great Nina Simone as a posthumous inductee. Of course, Bon Jovi had also been inducted. Isn’t that great? ;-P

Yet, it is a shame that neither Eurythmics, The Zombies, nor Kate Bush have yet been inducted. I had voted for each of these artists on the fan poll.

However, the previous inductions of: Pink Floyd, Talking Heads, Genesis, Rush, Peter Gabriel (as a solo artist), Chicago, Yes, E.L.O. and the newly inducted, The Moody Blues and The Cars should finally open the door for Duran Duran, the last of the first generation of progressive rock bands.

Now I understand that Duran Duran is finally on the Rock Hall’s radar. I would definitely not be surprised if Duran Duran is nominated and inducted immediately thereafter.

What do you, think?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Monday, 12/25/2017 @ 16:21pm

The 2018 Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame induction class features the long overdue “prog” fathers, The Moody Blues, the innovative arty classic rock/new wave band, The Cars and the innovative guitar expertise of Dire Straits. It also features the great late Sister Rosetta Tharpe as an early influence and the late great Nina Simone as a posthumous inductee. Of course, Bon Jovi had also been inducted. Isn’t that great? ;-P

Yet, it is a shame that neither Eurythmics, The Zombies, nor Kate Bush have yet been inducted. I had voted for each of these artists on the fan poll.

However, the previous inductions of: Pink Floyd, Jefferson Airplane, Queen, Talking Heads, Genesis, Rush, Peter Gabriel (as a solo artist), Chicago, Yes, E.L.O. and the newly inducted, The Moody Blues and The Cars should finally open the door for Duran Duran, the last of the first generation of progressive rock bands.

Now I understand that Duran Duran is finally on the Rock Hall’s radar. I would definitely not be surprised if Duran Duran is nominated and inducted immediately thereafter in 2019.

Well, what do you, think?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Monday, 12/25/2017 @ 16:24pm

Enig
I don't see Duran Duran nominated in 4-5 years. Don't have the Committee respect like Depeche Mode or The Smiths have. Steve Winwood will most likely induct the Moody Blues. He shared success around the same time and well-respected. Procol Harum should be next Prog group nominated and inducted. Best group not yet inducted. KING

Posted by KING on Monday, 12/25/2017 @ 18:30pm

KING,

Thank you for your continued support of Duran Duran. Is the new project that Simon has referred to, working on in the new year, possibly “Reportage?”

I certainly hope that it does not take an additional 4 or 5 years, in order to induct Duran Duran into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame. I believe that a nomination is forthcoming, plus Simon had hinted that Duran Duran may be working on a new album. Next year, will mark Duran Duran’s 40th anniversary as a band, plus Simon will turn 60. Let’s give Simon, Nick, John, Roger, Warren and Andy a long overdue induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fam In 2019.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Friday, 12/29/2017 @ 13:21pm

I have been an aficionado of Duran Duran’s music for over 35 years. Later this year and during the following year, Duran Duran will began to celebrate their 40th anniversary as a band. My introduction to the music of Duran Duran came via a show called “Night Tracks” on WTBS. My city did not have MTV until several years later, so therefore it was through cable television that I had first heard of Duran Duran. My first purchase of a Duran Duran album was their live recording, “Arena.” My favorite song from “Arena” is ‘The Chauffeur.’

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 01/21/2018 @ 12:14pm

I had previously identified that, in my honest opinion, the “holy trinity” of prog, consists of 2018 Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame inductees- The Moody Blues, 2017 Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame inductees- Yes and of course, 2013 Rock Hall inductees- Rush. So, where does Duran Duran fit in? Well, let me offer two simple equations. In it’s simplest form:

The Moody Blues + Yes = Rush

The Moody Blues + Yes + Rush = Duran Duran

Are there any questions? What, do you think?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Tuesday, 03/13/2018 @ 10:26am

I have now been an aficionado of Duran Duran’s music for over 35 years. Later this year and during the following year, Duran Duran will began to celebrate their 40th anniversary as a band. My introduction to the music of Duran Duran came via a show called “Night Tracks” on WTBS. My city did not have MTV until several years later, so therefore it was through cable television that I had first heard of Duran Duran. My first purchase of a Duran Duran album was their live recording, “Arena.” My favorite song from “Arena” is ‘The Chauffeur.’

Oh and by the way, I have decided to change my rating of “Paper Gods” to (*****). I am not going to fault Duran Duran for placing ‘Danceaphobia’ on this recording, although I believe that it is their weakest song on this album. However, with a plethora of great songs, including: ‘What Are The Chances’ (which now rivals ‘Ordinary World’ as Duran Duran’s best song, in my honest opinion), ‘The Universe Alone,’ ‘Paper Gods,’ ‘Pressure Off,’ ‘Last Chance In The City,’ etc. I would be remiss if I did not update that rating to five stars. Well, what do you, think?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 04/8/2018 @ 18:00pm

I had previously identified that, in my honest opinion, the “holy trinity” of prog, consists of 2018 Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame inductees- The Moody Blues, 2017 Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame inductees- Yes and of course, 2013 Rock Hall inductees- Rush. So, where does Duran Duran fit in? Well, let me offer two simple equations. In it’s simplest form:

The Moody Blues + Yes = Rush.

The Moody Blues + Yes + Rush = Duran Duran.

Are there any questions? What, do you think?

Let’s get Duran Duran and Jethro Tull inducted in 2019!

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 04/8/2018 @ 18:06pm

Back in 1997, when I had first created my website, I had placed Duran Duran under my list of popular artists, this was a slight error. I should have placed Duran Duran on the first tier in between Rush and The Moody Blues instead. However, I was not that familiar with very many of their recordings at that time. I still have quite a few Duran Duran recordings left to listen to. Of those studio recordings which I have heard and enjoyed the most, my top 5 are: “Duran Duran (1993),” “Paper Gods (2015),” “Rio (1982),” “All You Need Is Now (2010)” and “Astronaut (2004).”

Well, what do you, think?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Friday, 04/13/2018 @ 10:25am

Back in 1997, when I had first created my website, I had placed Duran Duran under my list of popular artists. This was a slight error. I should have placed Duran Duran on the first tier in between Rush and The Moody Blues instead. However, I was not that familiar with very many of their recordings at that time. I still have quite a few Duran Duran recordings left to listen to. Of those studio recordings which I have heard and enjoyed the most, my top 5 are: “Duran Duran (1993),” “Paper Gods (2015),” “Rio (1982),” “All You Need Is Now (2010)” and “Astronaut (2004).”

I am still looking forward to the release of “Reportage.”

Well, what do you, think?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Friday, 04/13/2018 @ 10:29am

Duran Duran had been critically maligned for decades. But so, also have been Rush, Yes and The Moody Blues, all of whom had waited quite a long time for their respective Rock Hall inductions. Now that the “holy trinity” of prog have been inducted, I think that it is time to take Duran Duran’s legacy into consideration. Simply put, Simon Le Bon and Nick Rhodes have written great songs together for almost 38 years. In May of 1980, Simon Le Bon had joined Duran Duran. For the 2 years prior, Duran Duran had changed lineups much more frequently. However, the new solidified lineup of Simon Le Bon, Nick Rhodes, John Taylor and Roger Taylor have been creating interesting and significant music for almost 15 consecutive years at this time. Guitarists have come and go, although Warren Cuccurullo had remained for 15 years and Dom Brown, although not an official member of Duran Duran, has been there since Andy Taylor’s departure in 2006. The point is that regardless of who has been in Duran Duran, Duran Duran has left us with a legacy of great music and has been long overdue for an induction into the Rock Hall. Let’s get Duran Duran inducted in 2019.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Wednesday, 04/18/2018 @ 10:46am

With the Cars now in, I’m hoping the HOF will be more new wave and snyth-pop than they ever were. Here’s how I can see it happen in the next few years.

2019: Duran Duran
2020: The Crue
2021: Depeche Mode
2022: INXS
2023: Devo
2024: B-52’s

Posted by The Dude on Monday, 04/23/2018 @ 11:57am

I can’t believe I forgot to add Tears for Fears on the list; they would probably be on the 2023-2026 timeline.

Posted by The Dude on Monday, 04/23/2018 @ 12:08pm

*The Cure

Posted by The Dude on Monday, 04/23/2018 @ 12:17pm

*The Cure

Posted by The Dude on Monday, 04/23/2018 @ 12:17pm

The Cure indeed. Joy Division. New Order. Deepechhe Mode.
Siouxsie & the Banshees, George Michael. Blur. The Smiths.

All culturally more important. And more relevant. All have much more critical acclaim. And incredible amounts of influence.

Duranies have that Girls on Film. Mysogyny much?

Posted by Ben on Tuesday, 04/24/2018 @ 02:57am

Ben,

Neither The Cure, nor Joy Division, nor New Order, nor Depeche Mode, nor Siouxsie & The Banshees, nor George Michael, nor Blur, nor The Smiths belong to the same genre as Duran Duran and they never have.

Contrary to popular opinion, Duran Duran is not a "throwaway pop band," nor a "boy band," nor a "synth pop," nor a "new wave" band and they never have been. For years and years, Rush had been similarly described as a "heavy metal," or a "hard rock" band, they were neither. No, ladies and gentlemen, both Rush and Duran Duran are major "progressive rock" bands and they have been, since their respective beginnings. So why have both of these bands been marginalized for such a long time?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 04/28/2018 @ 12:43pm

Ah, still peddling that delusional, revisionist, uninformed bullshit, Enig?

Posted by DarinRG on Saturday, 04/28/2018 @ 16:34pm

It’s really hard to choose ten records that had changed my life, so I will choose 12 artists instead.

01) Rush: “Exit... Stage Left,” although “Hemispheres” was the studio album which had introduced me to Rush; “A Farewell To Kings” was my first purchase.“Roll The Bones” and “Presto” are my two favorite studio albums and “Clockwork Angels Tour” is my second favorite live album.
02) Yes: “Tales From Topographic Oceans,” or “Yessongs.” Although, I could add quite a few more albums to this list, as well.
03) The Moody Blues: either, “This Is The Moody Blues,” “Days Of Future Passed”,”To Our Children’s Children’s Children”, or “Long Distance Voyager” (it’s really hard to choose between those 4).
04) Duran Duran: “Arena,” also “Rio,” “Duran Duran (1993),” “Astronaut,” “All You Need Is Now,” “Pop Trash,” “A Diamond In The Mind: Live 2011,” “Greatest” and “Paper Gods.”
05) Jethro Tull: “Songs From The Wood,” although “Thick As A Brick,” “A Passion Play,” “The Broadsword & The Beast,” “Crest Of A Knave,” “Roots To Branches” and “M.U. The Best Of Jethro Tull” could be added as well.
06) Sade: “Diamond Life,” although I more frequently listen to “The Best Of Sade.”
07) King Crimson: either, “The Compact King Crimson,” or “The Young Person’s Guide To King Crimson,” although there are numerous studio albums which I also enjoy.
08) The Carpenters: “Close To You,” although I had also listened to “The Singles (1969-1973)” quite a bit, also.
09) Mason Williams: ‘Classical Gas’
10) Chicago: I had not actually purchased a studio album by Chicago until 2016, except for the compilation- “Only The Beginning: The Very Best Of Chicago.”
11) Carly Simon: ‘You’re So Vain’ and numerous other songs and albums also.
12) Electric Light Orchestra: “Xanadu: The Original Motion Picture Soundtrack,” ‘ELO’s Greatest Hits,” “Eldorado,”etc.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 04/28/2018 @ 22:16pm

DarinRG,

Hello, It’s always so much fun to get a response from you, However, as you are very well aware, I am a huge “prog” aficionado. I do not under any circumstances endorse artists who are not somehow connected to this magnificent genre. Case in point, If you asked me to name any pop artists from this current timeline, I would not be able to give you an adequate response. I had basically stopped listening to the mainstream radio, with the exceptions of Sirius X-M, or Pandora over a quarter of a century ago. Therefore, most of my musical tastes were developed between 1977 and 1992. With very few exceptions, I do not listen to punk rock, nor heavy metal, nor grunge. So, if for some reason I hear an artist whose work falls within my defined parameters, I will start listening to that artist. One of my last “new” musical discoveries was Echolyn’s “As The World,” which is definitively a progressive rock magnum opus. Or, with very few exceptions, if it isn’t prog, I will not likely ever like it, period!
Therefore, my referencing Duran Duran as a progressive rock band is “... not revisionist bullshit!”

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 04/28/2018 @ 22:37pm

What is interesting to me is, not whether or not Duran Duran is a prog rock band (which 99.9% of people agree that they are NOT), why this label is so important to Enig, and why do labels matter anyway, it doesn't change the music?

Enig, listen to "Wild Boys" by Duran Duran, then listen to Yes "Close to the Edge" and get back to me on what it means to be prog and what the difference is.

Posted by Classic Rock on Sunday, 04/29/2018 @ 20:33pm

Enig,

I know this is hard for you to admit, but it's not necessarily closely related to prog just because you like it. I know this is a torturous cross for you to bear, but you're going to have to come to terms with the facts that you are a much more complex human being with a capability of embracing greater musical diversity that your believe yourself capable of. Who knows? One day you may even be able to embrace raunchy blues rock. Not saying you do, but you could be capable of it. But admitting it is the first step... Happy journeys.

Posted by Philip on Monday, 04/30/2018 @ 02:32am

Classic Rock,

Although “Close To The Edge” has been considered by many leading progressive rock “experts” to be considered to be quite possibly “progressive rock’s defining masterwork,” it is not the only prog masterpiece. I think that you could certainly argue that “Exit... Stage Left,” “Clockwork Angels Tour,” “Presto” and “Roll The Bones” by Rush are also definitive prog masterworks, also. Now, with that idea in mind, any band which starts moving in Rush’s direction is going to inevitably be considered to be “prog,” are they not?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Monday, 04/30/2018 @ 10:48am

Not sure I follow that logic. I define a prog rock artists as an artist who makes prog rock music. And on that definition, Duran Duran fails the test.

This may blow your mind but Roll the Bones isn't prog either. It's a power pop/rock album, but again, these labels are meaningless, the music doesn't change.

Posted by Classic Rock on Monday, 04/30/2018 @ 13:41pm

The fact that the members of Duran Duran have themselves acknowledged that they are a progressive band should have a great deal of validity and credibility. Unless of course, you think that my opinion is so unbelievably important and powerful that literally various bands will change their genre just because of my opinion? Don’t you believe that critics make mistakes, or do you somehow believe that every critic is correct? The critics refer to Duran Duran as a “synth pop” band, whatever that means. Duran Duran clearly states that they are a “prog” band and most people think they are mistaken because some long retired, or perhaps deceased critic from decades ago said that it was true. Well, I am cynical and have been for most of my life, so I do not accept opinions without doing a great deal of research beforehand. I did not arbitrarily say that Duran Duran had represented a hybrid of pop and prog nearly 21 years ago; it is fact, not fiction, nor is it “fake news!” Duran Duran has always been and will always continue to be a major “progressive rock” band, period. The fact that they would want to be described as the least respected and most critically maligned of rock genres says a lot. Certainly, I think that we need to really look at what progressive actually means, not what some long forgotten critic had once said. Rush have always been a major “progressive rock” band, but some critic decades ago had saddled them with the loathsome label of heavy metal. I had created my now long-archived website nearly 21 years ago, primarily to change that prevailing opinion. So, if this is true of Rush, why wouldn’t it be true of Duran Duran?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Saturday, 05/5/2018 @ 03:22am

They will get in just not sure when. They were definately very influential for bands in the polar opposite from Stone Temple Pilots, Korn to Artic Monkeys. And they have the chart success to prove it from the early 80s up to the early 90s. They don't have critic's backing but neither have current HOFers Bon Jovi, Hall & Oates, and Kiss

Posted by JayKay on Friday, 05/11/2018 @ 14:12pm

Members from Rush, the Cars, Blondie, Talking Heads, The Pretenders, U2, Red Hot Chili Peppers, REM, The Beastie Boys, the Beatles, the Stones, Pink Floyd, Nirvana, Pearl Jam, Green Day, Velvet Underground, Yes, Journey, and some more inductees will vote fo them once they get a nomination not only because Duran Duran is a new wave band, but also how technical and alternative rooted they are musically.

Posted by The Dude on Friday, 05/11/2018 @ 14:26pm

The Dude,

Yes absolutely, since the “holy trinity” of prog (Rush, Yes and The Moody Blues) have finally been inducted, I think that those previously mentioned artists will support the induction of Duran Duran into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame.

Classic Rock,

Thank you for agreeing with me, Duran Duran is most likely to be the next “prog” inductee.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Friday, 05/11/2018 @ 23:33pm

Earlier this year, “Duran Duran (1993),” aka “The Wedding Album” had celebrated it’s 25th anniversary. Of course, “The Wedding Album” features Duran Duran’s greatest song, ‘Ordinary World’ and another magnificent song, ‘Come Undone.’

In 2015, Duran Duran had released “Paper Gods,” which in my honest opinion had featured Duran Duran’s second greatest song, ‘What Are The Chances?’

However, unlike ‘Ordinary World,’ which had featured many keyboards and a quasi-string arangement, ‘What Are The Chances?’ had featured actual strings (violins and cellos), something which has been featured on many Duran Duran albums extensively with the possible exception of “Red Carpet Massacre,” since “Thank You.”

Rush had also featured either “string arrangements,” or actual violins, or cellos on several albums, including: “Signals,” “Power Windows,” “Hold Your Fire,” “Counterparts,” “Clockwork Angels,” “Clockwork Angels Tour” and “R40 Live.”

Kansas and Gentle Giant had utilized violins and cellos extensively throughout their discographies, since both bands have actually had violinists as full-time members of their bands. King Crimson had utilized cellos and violins on their earlier albums, including: “Islands,” “Lark’s Tongues In Aspic,” “Starless And Bible Black” and “Red,” in addition to numerous live recordings. Yes has utilized a symphony orchestra on “Time And A Word,” “Magnification” and “Symphonic Live.” The Moody Blues have featured string instruments on most of their “Core 7” albums, with the possible exception of “A Question Of Balance,” “Long Distance Voyager, “ “A Night At Red
Rocks With the Colorado Symphony Orchestra,” “Hall Of Fame” and “Days Of Future Passed (Live).” Jethro Tull has also featured string arrangements, or orchestral arrangements on most of their albums.

In my honest opinion, the use of violins and cellos extensively on numerous albums, in addition to the use of keyboards (in order to simulate a string orchestra) places Duran Duran solidly within the realm of “progressive rock.”

Well, what do you think?

Posted by Enigmaticus on Sunday, 05/13/2018 @ 15:46pm

Enigmaticus,
Cellos are used on “The Balance” on Moody Blues lp
“Question of Balance”

Posted by Mark on Sunday, 05/13/2018 @ 16:06pm

Mark,

Thank you for that information, although that little tidbit of information had not been mentioned on Wikipedia.

Posted by Enigmaticus on Monday, 05/21/2018 @ 10:09am

Bands which have not yet been inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame which fall into that nebulous mass formed by the “holy trinity” of prog (Rush, Yes and The Moody Blues)

Duran Duran
Supertramp
Boston


Well, what do you think?