The show must go on. It was announced this week that the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony will now be held on Saturday, November 7 at Public Auditorium in Cleveland (fingers crossed). Prior to that, as with the vast majority of "non-essential" public places, the Hall's museum temporarily closed its doors starting March 14 due to concerns over the current COVID-19 pandemic. (The current reopening date per the Rock Hall site is March 27, but that seems likely to change.)
In times of crisis and uncertainty, it can be helpful to hear from the people in charge. On that note, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame museum CEO Greg Harris was a call-in guest on SiriusXM's "Debatable" show today, chatting about all the recent Rock Hall upheaval with hosts Mark Goodman and Alan Light. Here are some of the highlights of what Harris had to say, transcribed for those who missed it:
On the induction ceremony postponement: "It was the right thing to do as Coachella was postponed, as [SXSW] was being cancelled, as the NBA was looking to pause their season... it's one of those decisions that as soon as it was made, you knew it was the right decision."
On the Rock Hall museum's closure: "It was a Friday, and we were thinking, do we keep the museum open for the weekend, because there are already tickets out, people may have traveled, and all those things. And our Governor came out with this message. We knew we were closing, the question was, were we going to close on Friday or were we going to close on Monday, and after getting a lot of information, quite frankly from the CDC and others, we made the move to close at the end of [Friday]."
On the museum's mission going forward in our current era: "Our museum's mission is to engage, teach and inspire through the power of rock and roll... does that hold up in a changed world? And the mission actually holds up because it isn't dependent on physical space. Looking at how do we make the items in our vast collection available, how we do a lot of live concerts at the museum...[we] use the induction as an example - there's going to be 5000, 6000 people in the room for the ceremony, but there's going to be millions, and tens of millions that watch it online and through HBO's broadcast and through Sirius' broadcast. That's still very relevant and very important, and that's an opportunity to continue to expand and reach and connect."
On the challenges of rescheduling the induction ceremony: "Balancing the time when HBO could handle the broadcast, when [SiriusXM] could handle the broadcast, when the artists could travel, when our city had the spaces available. We take up a ton of hotel rooms, and getting all that together was a real Tetris puzzle... locally, we needed to get the hotel rooms, we needed to get the venues. There was a group called Union Home Mortgage that was holding an event for 1,200 friends and clients on the exact day we needed. They generously took on the task of moving that to another weekend, having to rebook all their hotel rooms... it got as granular as that."
On the scope of putting on the induction ceremonies: "It's an event that's on par with hosting the Final Four, or on par with major conventions. It's a citywide thing, it'll be the biggest event in Cleveland of that quarter. And quite frankly, if this [COVID-19] crisis continues, this could be the big party when we're all in the clear and ready to come back out again and celebrate rock and roll and how important it is to us."
March 25, 2020
November 27, 2019
Predictions: The Rock Hall Class of 2020
An eventful year and decade comes to a close, and still, this question lingers: What names will be read this January by museum CEO Greg Harris as he announces the Rock Hall Class of 2020? Judging by the Fan Vote stats, and to quote "Everything Counts" by Depeche Mode, "It's a competitive world." (And if you read Evelyn McDonnell's brilliant, mic-drop of a piece in Billboard this past November 15, another lyric from that song holds true, as well: "The graph on the wall/Tells the story of it all").
But back to the lecture at hand. It's time to be bold. It's time to be pragmatic. So, bombs away: This will be the first year where the Rock Hall Fan Vote Winner (presumably Dave Matthews Band) does not get into the Hall. Let's be clear — this prediction has nothing to do with Dave Matthews Band's arguable merits or Hall-worthiness, so DMB fans need not take offense; if any other act from the ballot was at the top of the Fan Vote, this (admittedly wild) prediction would still have been made.
Yes, it's true that Rush, KISS, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Chicago, Journey, Bon Jovi, and Def Leppard each triumphed in the Fan Vote, and were subsequently inducted. The prognostication here is that this will be the first year that will not happen. Look, at some point, this streak has to end. Otherwise, the pattern of the Fan Vote winner automatically being swept into the Hall every year starts looking, well, a bit suspect. And does the Hall really want to throw even more fuel on the fire of what many observers view as a broken, exclusionary induction process in need of radical change?
While the Hall's fan engagement initiatives are here to stay, there's no denying that the world, and its institutions, are places where electoral processes don't always favor the candidate with the most votes (but enough about the Dave Clark Five). Please view Exhibit A when it comes to artists at the top of fan-voted Rock Hall mechanisms: The museum kiosk vote found Mötley Crüe and Blink-182 in the top two slots right before last month's ballot announcement. Both of those bands failed to make the nominee pool (unlike Def Leppard and Stevie Nicks a year prior, both inducted). If the Hall is willing to disregard/leapfrog acts the public votes for at the museum, it's reasonable to speculate that this year's Fan Vote winner might just have to enter the race anew another year.
Here are E-Rockracy's predictions for the Rock Hall Class of 2020:
Pat Benatar
Depeche Mode
The Doobie Brothers
Whitney Houston
Judas Priest
The Notorious B.I.G.
Early Influences: Kraftwerk
So let's unpack this. This year's ballot, for all its faults and redundancies, is nonetheless genre-diverse. This predicted class keeps that eclecticism in mind. There's the untouchably cool rock icon Pat Benatar; representation of synth-pop/alternative with Depeche Mode; the FM radio-beloved, boomer-friendly American rock of the Doobie Brothers; a pop superstar in Whitney; an overdue nod to heavy metal with Judas Priest; and hip-hop achievement with Biggie.
By any standard, six performers, plus the Early Influences category, is a class that could certainly happen, and function tidily for a live HBO telecast. This may appear to be a hefty ballot with seven artists, but the Class of 2019 had that many, and it bears noting that two of these artists, Whitney and Biggie, are no longer with us. Right or wrong, deceased solo artists’ ceremony time is often shorter than time allotted to living nominees.
Regarding Early Influences and the prediction that Kraftwerk earns this honor, reference needs to be made to SiriusXM’s “Volume” show when the ballot dropped last month (thanks to Future Rock Legends for compiling and transcribing this on the FRL site). For context, this is regarding a possible redefinition of the Early Influences category, which, per the Rock Hall site is “Awarded to influential artists whose music predates rock and roll."
On SiriusXM October 15, nomination committee member Alan Light and Rock Hall Foundation CEO Joel Pereman said the following:
Alan Light: "We've said this before, there's also some of these who at a certain point should you look at them as Early Influences? Should Kraftwerk be not in the general ballot, but moved to go in a different way because of everything in that whole universe tracing back to this one band. That's another thing that we would look at.”
Joel Peresman: "Absolutely. As we get older and move on, when you think about Early Influences it's not the 50s and 60s anymore. The Early Influence can be 70s and 80s depending on the certain genre of music.”
So there it is. The prediction here is that the Hall does exactly that, and gives Early Influences to the overdue electronic music pioneers of Kraftwerk. And why not? In the end, and for all the widely reported dysfunction in this institution — the sound, the fury, the easily avoidable, Jesus-wept outrages — the Hall, its executives, and its committees can do whatever they want. And so, in the spirit of optimism on the cusp of a new decade and a new era with chairman John Sykes, hopefully that intrinsic latitude can lead to to more just, inclusive, and contemplated Hall going forward. It's time for changes. Rock Hall, there are more eyes on you than ever. Watching. Waiting.
But back to the lecture at hand. It's time to be bold. It's time to be pragmatic. So, bombs away: This will be the first year where the Rock Hall Fan Vote Winner (presumably Dave Matthews Band) does not get into the Hall. Let's be clear — this prediction has nothing to do with Dave Matthews Band's arguable merits or Hall-worthiness, so DMB fans need not take offense; if any other act from the ballot was at the top of the Fan Vote, this (admittedly wild) prediction would still have been made.
Yes, it's true that Rush, KISS, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Chicago, Journey, Bon Jovi, and Def Leppard each triumphed in the Fan Vote, and were subsequently inducted. The prognostication here is that this will be the first year that will not happen. Look, at some point, this streak has to end. Otherwise, the pattern of the Fan Vote winner automatically being swept into the Hall every year starts looking, well, a bit suspect. And does the Hall really want to throw even more fuel on the fire of what many observers view as a broken, exclusionary induction process in need of radical change?
While the Hall's fan engagement initiatives are here to stay, there's no denying that the world, and its institutions, are places where electoral processes don't always favor the candidate with the most votes (but enough about the Dave Clark Five). Please view Exhibit A when it comes to artists at the top of fan-voted Rock Hall mechanisms: The museum kiosk vote found Mötley Crüe and Blink-182 in the top two slots right before last month's ballot announcement. Both of those bands failed to make the nominee pool (unlike Def Leppard and Stevie Nicks a year prior, both inducted). If the Hall is willing to disregard/leapfrog acts the public votes for at the museum, it's reasonable to speculate that this year's Fan Vote winner might just have to enter the race anew another year.
Here are E-Rockracy's predictions for the Rock Hall Class of 2020:
Pat Benatar
Depeche Mode
The Doobie Brothers
Whitney Houston
Judas Priest
The Notorious B.I.G.
Early Influences: Kraftwerk
So let's unpack this. This year's ballot, for all its faults and redundancies, is nonetheless genre-diverse. This predicted class keeps that eclecticism in mind. There's the untouchably cool rock icon Pat Benatar; representation of synth-pop/alternative with Depeche Mode; the FM radio-beloved, boomer-friendly American rock of the Doobie Brothers; a pop superstar in Whitney; an overdue nod to heavy metal with Judas Priest; and hip-hop achievement with Biggie.
By any standard, six performers, plus the Early Influences category, is a class that could certainly happen, and function tidily for a live HBO telecast. This may appear to be a hefty ballot with seven artists, but the Class of 2019 had that many, and it bears noting that two of these artists, Whitney and Biggie, are no longer with us. Right or wrong, deceased solo artists’ ceremony time is often shorter than time allotted to living nominees.
Regarding Early Influences and the prediction that Kraftwerk earns this honor, reference needs to be made to SiriusXM’s “Volume” show when the ballot dropped last month (thanks to Future Rock Legends for compiling and transcribing this on the FRL site). For context, this is regarding a possible redefinition of the Early Influences category, which, per the Rock Hall site is “Awarded to influential artists whose music predates rock and roll."
On SiriusXM October 15, nomination committee member Alan Light and Rock Hall Foundation CEO Joel Pereman said the following:
Alan Light: "We've said this before, there's also some of these who at a certain point should you look at them as Early Influences? Should Kraftwerk be not in the general ballot, but moved to go in a different way because of everything in that whole universe tracing back to this one band. That's another thing that we would look at.”
Joel Peresman: "Absolutely. As we get older and move on, when you think about Early Influences it's not the 50s and 60s anymore. The Early Influence can be 70s and 80s depending on the certain genre of music.”
So there it is. The prediction here is that the Hall does exactly that, and gives Early Influences to the overdue electronic music pioneers of Kraftwerk. And why not? In the end, and for all the widely reported dysfunction in this institution — the sound, the fury, the easily avoidable, Jesus-wept outrages — the Hall, its executives, and its committees can do whatever they want. And so, in the spirit of optimism on the cusp of a new decade and a new era with chairman John Sykes, hopefully that intrinsic latitude can lead to to more just, inclusive, and contemplated Hall going forward. It's time for changes. Rock Hall, there are more eyes on you than ever. Watching. Waiting.
September 27, 2019
Hall Watchers Episode 15 Companion Guide: Rock Hall-Worthy Women Behind the Music
On a recent Hall Watchers podcast, Mary put a spotlight on 19 Rock Hall-worthy women behind the scenes in the music industry. What follows below is a companion guide to that podcast, showcasing the amazing women that were discussed.
For additional context on the Rock Hall and its need to induct more women, here's a bit of info about the Non-Performer category from the Rock Hall website (in 2008, the category's name changed to the Ahmet Ertegun Award):
"This award honors songwriters, producers, disc jockeys, record executives, journalists and other industry professionals who have had a major influence on rock & roll."
Fact: There are only 3 women inducted into the Rock Hall as non-performer/Ahmet Ertegun out of 47 people, and they are inducted with their partners:
1990 - Gerry Goffin and Carole King 2010 - Jeff Barry and Ellie Greenwich 2010 - Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil
There is not a single female non-performer in on her own. Let's change that. Here are the candidates discussed on Hall Watchers, Episode 15:
For additional context on the Rock Hall and its need to induct more women, here's a bit of info about the Non-Performer category from the Rock Hall website (in 2008, the category's name changed to the Ahmet Ertegun Award):
"This award honors songwriters, producers, disc jockeys, record executives, journalists and other industry professionals who have had a major influence on rock & roll."
Fact: There are only 3 women inducted into the Rock Hall as non-performer/Ahmet Ertegun out of 47 people, and they are inducted with their partners:
1990 - Gerry Goffin and Carole King 2010 - Jeff Barry and Ellie Greenwich 2010 - Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil
There is not a single female non-performer in on her own. Let's change that. Here are the candidates discussed on Hall Watchers, Episode 15:
Ruth Polsky, Booker and Concert Promoter
What she is notable for: She was crucial in breaking UK bands such as Simple Minds, Echo and the Bunnymen, the Smiths, the Psychedelic Furs, the Birthday Party, Jesus & Mary Chain and many more. She also booked the Joy Division USA tour in May 1980, which was canceled after Ian Curtis' death.
Susan Rogers, Record Producer, Engineer, Mixer, and Audio Electronics Technician
What she is notable for: Worked alongside Prince from 1983 to 1988 as the sound engineer for his albums Purple Rain, Around the World in a Day, Parade, Sign o' the Times, and The Black Album. Also worked with artists such as David Byrne, Barenaked Ladies, Tricky, the Violent Femmes, the Jacksons and Toad the Wet Sprocket. just to name a few.
What she is notable for: Worked alongside Prince from 1983 to 1988 as the sound engineer for his albums Purple Rain, Around the World in a Day, Parade, Sign o' the Times, and The Black Album. Also worked with artists such as David Byrne, Barenaked Ladies, Tricky, the Violent Femmes, the Jacksons and Toad the Wet Sprocket. just to name a few.
Sylvia Robinson, Record Label Executive and Producer
What she is notable for: Mother of hip-hop, best known for her work as founder and CEO of the Sugar Hill Records hip-hop label. She is credited for being the force behind the two hip-hop singles, “Rapper’s Delight” by the Sugar Hill Gang released in 1980 and “The Message” by Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five in 1982.
Lillian McMurry, Record Producer, Owner of Trumpet Records
What she is notable for: Influential in the development of blues music particularly through her recordings of Sonny Boy Williamson II and discovery of guitarist Elmore James.
What she is notable for: Influential in the development of blues music particularly through her recordings of Sonny Boy Williamson II and discovery of guitarist Elmore James.
Sylvia Massy, Record Producer, Mixer and Engineer
What she is notable for: Her big break came in producing comedy-rockers Green Jello’s debut album featuring the radio hit “Three Little Pigs.” She is perhaps best known for her work on 1993's Undertow, the double platinum-selling debut for Los Angeles metal band Tool.
What she is notable for: Her big break came in producing comedy-rockers Green Jello’s debut album featuring the radio hit “Three Little Pigs.” She is perhaps best known for her work on 1993's Undertow, the double platinum-selling debut for Los Angeles metal band Tool.
Helen Oakley Dance, Jazz Critic
What she is notable for: Pioneering female jazz critic in the 1930's as well as a record producer, music publisher and personal assistant to musicians like Duke Ellington, Red Norvo, Chick Webb, Johnny Hodges, Bob Crosby and Earl Hines. She helped organize one of the first sit down jazz concerts that featured an interracial band. Wrote "Stormy Monday: The T-Bone Walker Story" which is considered the definitive book on T-Bone Walker.
What she is notable for: Pioneering female jazz critic in the 1930's as well as a record producer, music publisher and personal assistant to musicians like Duke Ellington, Red Norvo, Chick Webb, Johnny Hodges, Bob Crosby and Earl Hines. She helped organize one of the first sit down jazz concerts that featured an interracial band. Wrote "Stormy Monday: The T-Bone Walker Story" which is considered the definitive book on T-Bone Walker.
Marion Keisker, Assistant at Sun Records
What she is notable for: Was the first person to record Elvis, and encouraged Sam Phillips to take a chance on him. Her detailed logs of the activities at Sun Records provided music historians with ample and interesting information about the label's history.
What she is notable for: Was the first person to record Elvis, and encouraged Sam Phillips to take a chance on him. Her detailed logs of the activities at Sun Records provided music historians with ample and interesting information about the label's history.
Gwendolyn Quinn, Public Relations
What she is notable for: Organized media campaigns for artists such as Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston, P. Diddy, Notorious B.I.G. and Faith Evans.
What she is notable for: Organized media campaigns for artists such as Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston, P. Diddy, Notorious B.I.G. and Faith Evans.
Sharon Osbourne, Manager
What she is notable for: Managed her husband Ozzy Osbourne to a successful solo career, which then resulted in her beginning her own management agency that managed the careers of artists such as Lita Ford and Smashing Pumpkins. In 1996, she created Ozzfest, which featured both new and established metal bands.
What she is notable for: Managed her husband Ozzy Osbourne to a successful solo career, which then resulted in her beginning her own management agency that managed the careers of artists such as Lita Ford and Smashing Pumpkins. In 1996, she created Ozzfest, which featured both new and established metal bands.
Lenise Bent, Audio Engineer
What she is notable for: One of the earliest women working on sound in the 70’s, she was assistant engineer on Aja by Steely Dan; Breakfast in America by Supertramp and Tusk by Fleetwood Mac. But one of her biggest accomplishments is that she engineered AutoAmerican by Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees Blondie; her work on that album resulted in her being the first woman to receive an RIAA Platinum album.
What she is notable for: One of the earliest women working on sound in the 70’s, she was assistant engineer on Aja by Steely Dan; Breakfast in America by Supertramp and Tusk by Fleetwood Mac. But one of her biggest accomplishments is that she engineered AutoAmerican by Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees Blondie; her work on that album resulted in her being the first woman to receive an RIAA Platinum album.
Donna Halper, Deejay and Music Director
What she is notable for: Donna is credited with discovering the rock band Rush when she was working as the Music Director at radio station WMMS in Cleveland in 1974. After a Canadian record producer gave her the then-unknown band's album, she played a track called “Working Man” on the air. Listeners started requesting more Rush tracks, which resulted in other radio stations beginning to give Rush more airplay. By late summer of 1974, the band got a U.S. recording contract.
What she is notable for: Donna is credited with discovering the rock band Rush when she was working as the Music Director at radio station WMMS in Cleveland in 1974. After a Canadian record producer gave her the then-unknown band's album, she played a track called “Working Man” on the air. Listeners started requesting more Rush tracks, which resulted in other radio stations beginning to give Rush more airplay. By late summer of 1974, the band got a U.S. recording contract.
Polly Anthony, Record Label President
What she is notable for: She was one of the first women to head a major record label, she was the president of Epic Records from 1997 until 2003, then she became president of DreamWorks and after a corporate reorganization she was named co-president of Geffen Records. She worked with artists like Korn, Macy Gray, Celine Dion, Michael Jackson, Pearl Jam, and Rage Against the Machine. She allocated hundreds of thousands of dollars to the “Korn Kampaign,” which led to the band going multi-platinum.
What she is notable for: She was one of the first women to head a major record label, she was the president of Epic Records from 1997 until 2003, then she became president of DreamWorks and after a corporate reorganization she was named co-president of Geffen Records. She worked with artists like Korn, Macy Gray, Celine Dion, Michael Jackson, Pearl Jam, and Rage Against the Machine. She allocated hundreds of thousands of dollars to the “Korn Kampaign,” which led to the band going multi-platinum.
Ann Powers, Writer and Music Critic
What she is notable for: She was the senior curator at the Experience Music Project (EMP) in Seattle, which later became Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP). Powers and her husband Eric Weisbard have helped organize the annual EMP Pop Conference (now MoPOP Conference) since its inception. She currently is a music critic for NPR and a contributor at the Los Angeles Times, where she was previously chief pop critic.
What she is notable for: She was the senior curator at the Experience Music Project (EMP) in Seattle, which later became Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP). Powers and her husband Eric Weisbard have helped organize the annual EMP Pop Conference (now MoPOP Conference) since its inception. She currently is a music critic for NPR and a contributor at the Los Angeles Times, where she was previously chief pop critic.
Angelica Cob-Baehler, Music Executive
What she is notable for: Angelica moved to Virgin Records as an SVP in 2005 where she launched an ultimately successful campaign to bring Katy Perry to the label after she had been rejected by Columbia Records. She played a large role in the creative direction of the singer's 2008 breakthrough album One of the Boys as well as the follow-up, Teenage Dream.
What she is notable for: Angelica moved to Virgin Records as an SVP in 2005 where she launched an ultimately successful campaign to bring Katy Perry to the label after she had been rejected by Columbia Records. She played a large role in the creative direction of the singer's 2008 breakthrough album One of the Boys as well as the follow-up, Teenage Dream.
What she is notable for: Founder of Sacks and Co., a PR company with offices in Seattle, New York and Nashville.
Ellen Willis, Rock Critic
What she is notable for: She was the first pop-music critic for the New Yorker, and was a regular contributor at Rolling Stone, The Village Voice and many other publications. She wrote 56 pieces for The New Yorker's “Rock, Etc.” column over seven years, including famous pieces on Bob Dylan, Janis Joplin and The Sex Pistols.
Vicki Wickham, Manager, Entertainment Producer, and Songwriter
What she is notable for: She is most known for producing the 1960s British television show "Ready Steady Go!" and managing the pop/soul acts Labelle and Dusty Springfield. She cowrote the English lyrics to Dusty Springfield's only British #1 hit "You Don't Have to Say You Love Me" and also co-wrote Dusty's biography Dancing with Demons.
What she is notable for: She is most known for producing the 1960s British television show "Ready Steady Go!" and managing the pop/soul acts Labelle and Dusty Springfield. She cowrote the English lyrics to Dusty Springfield's only British #1 hit "You Don't Have to Say You Love Me" and also co-wrote Dusty's biography Dancing with Demons.
Vicky Hamilton, Record Executive, Personal Manager and Promoter
What she is notable for: Famous for managing the early careers of Guns N' Roses, Poison and Faster Pussycat, as well as working as a management consultant for Mötley Crüe and Stryper. Began her own record label, Small Hairy Dog, after being outraged no one wanted to work with June Carter Cash. This ultimately resulted in June recording the album Press On, which won a Grammy Award for Best Traditional Folk Album in 2000.
What she is notable for: Famous for managing the early careers of Guns N' Roses, Poison and Faster Pussycat, as well as working as a management consultant for Mötley Crüe and Stryper. Began her own record label, Small Hairy Dog, after being outraged no one wanted to work with June Carter Cash. This ultimately resulted in June recording the album Press On, which won a Grammy Award for Best Traditional Folk Album in 2000.
Jane Scott, Rock Critic for the Cleveland Plain Dealer
What she is notable for: She was world-famous for being the oldest rock critic, retiring in 2002 at the age of 82. Over her career, she covered over 10,000 shows with stars ranging from Bruce Springsteen, Beastie Boys, the Who, the Rolling Stones, the Doors, Led Zepplin, the Beach Boys, and more. Many, including former Rock Hall CEO Terry Stewart, consider her the reason the Rock Hall museum is in Cleveland.
What she is notable for: She was world-famous for being the oldest rock critic, retiring in 2002 at the age of 82. Over her career, she covered over 10,000 shows with stars ranging from Bruce Springsteen, Beastie Boys, the Who, the Rolling Stones, the Doors, Led Zepplin, the Beach Boys, and more. Many, including former Rock Hall CEO Terry Stewart, consider her the reason the Rock Hall museum is in Cleveland.
September 1, 2019
The Idealist's Ballot: Mary Picks 15 Nominees
E-Rockracy readers, please welcome guest columnist and Hall Watchers co-host Mary, offering her 2020 Rock Hall ballot picks.
It’s the most wonderful time of the year! NFL preseason has begun (go Saints and Bills) and so has our Rock Hall preseason — ballot predictions! Eric has posted his picks, and is now kindly allowing me to guest post with what we’ve dubbed the “Idealist Ballot.”
It’s the most wonderful time of the year! NFL preseason has begun (go Saints and Bills) and so has our Rock Hall preseason — ballot predictions! Eric has posted his picks, and is now kindly allowing me to guest post with what we’ve dubbed the “Idealist Ballot.”
Eric
will tell you that I refuse to ascribe to the “Rock Hall won’t ever nominate so
and so” philosophy. It’s a negative, self-fulfilling prophecy, and I would much
rather work toward fighting for the people who should be in the
Rock Hall rather than predicting what the nominating committee will do this
year. I don’t like trying to predict what the Rock Hall will do, because it
means thinking like the nominating committee and also giving credence to
whoever is at the top of the kiosk. Thinking like that usually means omitting
legacy artists, women, and people of color. It means bowing to pressure to sell
ceremony tickets instead of honoring music history and educating people. I
won’t do it, even if it means I’m “wrong” when it comes to predicting what
artists will end up on a ballot.
I
am an idealist to my core and firmly believe that we have the power to change
the Rock Hall, even if it's small and incremental changes. More women and
people of color are being discussed, and I know that’s due to us. Janet Jackson
was inducted, and I know that was due to us. The Texas Playboys will rightfully
be restored to the Bob Wills plaque, and that’s due to us too. I think more
people are watching and listening than we think they are, so why not use our
voices for change? I believe that if we continue to respectfully put out names
of people who we know deserve to be in, and we continue to make a case for
those people, then eventually someone will hear us. And you know, maybe it's
all for nothing and we’re just screaming into the void, but at least we’re
screaming the right things.
This
was a really difficult ballot to put together. I had to make some really hard
cuts, but I think this would be a ballot most anyone could find 5 boxes they
would be happy to check. Also
note that out of 15 slots, there are 8 amazing women on this ballot, including
Kim Gordon of Sonic Youth. Shockingly the world is still managing to spin on
its axis, and I hope the Rock Hall takes note of that.
Without
further delay, here are the 15 artists I would put on a ballot:
Black
Flag - Punk has been woefully ignored for the last few years, so gimmie
gimmie gimmie a Rock Hall nomination for this legendary punk band! They're the very essence of rock n' roll. They truly suffered for their art and the story of their perseverance and grit would make one hell of a ceremony video package. With their name recognition, Black Flag may be able to succeed on a ballot where MC5 and Bad Brains couldn’t, which could help grease the wheels for the rest of the punk bands from the late 70's to 80's who have been snubbed for far too long. And let's be honest, wouldn't it be awesome to hear "Rise Above" being snarled at some of those in the audience who have likely snubbed our favorite artists? I'm already getting in the van for that. (Discussed
on Hall Watchers Episode 5)
Carole
King - She’s
been rightfully honored as a non-performer for helping countless artists
achieve hits, now it’s Carole’s turn to be honored as a performer for her own
singing career. Tapestry is obviously enough to get her in, but let’s not
forget she made a total of 17 studio albums including Music and Wrap Around
Joy, both of which went to number one. For heaven’s sake, when it comes to
albums this woman has more gold, platinum and diamonds than Elizabeth Taylor,
can we just get her inducted? (Discussed in Episodes 2 and 6)
Dolly
Parton - Whether
it’s teasing a possible collaboration with Lil Nas X or surprising fans at the
Newport Folk Festival by joining an all-female collaboration with Amanda
Shires, Maren Morris, Brandi Carlile and Natalie Hemby, Dolly Parton is having
a moment this year, and it’s one of many over her incredible career. In a
world that often feels dark and divisive, a Dolly induction would not
only be a well-deserved honor for this inspirational woman, but perhaps a light
in the darkness. I can already feel the breath of fresh air she would bring to
a ceremony. (Discussed on Episode 8)
Glen
Campbell - With
both a staggering session musician portfolio and a successful solo career, Glen
Campbell has more than enough credits to warrant a place on a Rock Hall ballot.
Don’t think he’s rock and roll enough? Glen was such an incredible guitarist
that Eddie Van Halen once asked Alice Cooper, one of Glen’s closest friends, if
he’d be able to get Glen to give him a lesson. He gave the finger to
Alzheimer's disease by touring and making one last album for his fans. He was
just that much of a bad-ass. (Discussed on Episode 8)
Link
Wray - "(Greg)
Harris also confirmed that just because an artist’s song is honored, it doesn’t
mean they can’t be nominated for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame moving
forward. Meaning, previous nominees like Link Wray and Procol Harum are still
eligible for induction." - Troy Smith of Cleveland.com
I
feel like this is the year where the Rock Hall watcher community will either
have their faith restored or their worst fears about the Singles category
confirmed. I think I speak for most of us when I say we’d be thrilled to be
proven wrong. It’s your move Rock Hall. Do you stand by your words, or will we
have to continue to rumble to get this legendary man in the hall where he
rightfully belongs? He was so rock n' roll that the instrumental "Rumble" was banned in 1958 over fears that it would cause teenage gang violence, and influenced everyone from Iggy Pop to Neil Young. If you listen to Link, you hear the birth of punk and metal. Rock Hall, this is a ridiculous snub and a long overdue induction. (Discussed in Episodes 4, 5 and 6)
Mary
Wells - At
this point, the exclusion of Mary Wells feels like a mistake the Rock Hall is
hoping no one will notice, and it’s really a damn shame given her legacy. Her
story would provide inspiration to many young women and let them know that with
tenacity and hard work, they can accomplish anything at any age. The Rock Hall
needs to rip off the Band-Aid and admit her not being inducted is outrageous
and finally honor this Motown legend the way she deserves. (Discussed in
Episode 2)
The
Monkees - Despite
increasing public clamor for their inclusion, the Rock Hall has missed
opportunity after opportunity to induct The Monkees, including in 2016 after
the release of their fantastic album Good Times! and the 50th anniversary tour
that followed. Now with both Davy and Peter gone, time is of the essence. Mickey
and Mike were just out touring together, and would likely show up to the
ceremony. Artists like Rivers Cuomo would probably be thrilled to participate
in their induction since The Monkees were the stepping stone for bands like
Weezer. (Discussed in Episode 6)
MC
Lyte - There
isn’t a single female hip-hop artist in the Rock Hall, and it’s an injustice we
need to remedy immediately. I can’t think of any better woman for the job of
“first” than MC Lyte given the many firsts she accomplished and the barriers
she broke for women in hip-hop. If you’re in the Smithsonian for being a
hip-hop pioneer, then you belong in the Rock Hall, period. (Discussed in Episode
2)
Motörhead - “With
the passing of Lemmy, it’s really, really important for me to see Motörhead
acknowledged in (the Rock Hall), cause there’s no more rock and roll person on
this planet than Lemmy and Motörhead.” - James Hetfield
It
will be bittersweet without Lemmy here to deliver what surely would have been a
delightfully snarky acceptance speech, but it’s time once and for all to put
Motörhead on the ballot. They are the pioneers of thrash metal, and clearly mean
so much to so many metal and hard rock fans. I can only imagine that James
Hetfield and/or Dave Grohl would be all too delighted to induct them. (Discussed
in Episode 3)
New
York Dolls - The
Rock Hall is an institution that is supposed to honor pioneers and
trailblazers, but somehow they haven't inducted the New York Dolls. Talk
about a personality crisis! While the Doll's career was limited, their
influence and impact on music is lasting. They are critical to glam, and drew up
a blueprint for punk that makes them well overdue for the Rock Hall.
Pat
Benatar - With
four consecutive Grammy awards three American Music Awards, two multi-platinum
albums, five platinum albums, three gold albums and 15 Billboard Top 40
singles, Pat Benatar is well overdue for Rock Hall nomination. No one can tell
us we’re wrong. We’ve been searching Rock Hall ballot for so long, just waiting
for this incredible woman to be nominated. (Discussed on Episode 2)
Patsy
Cline - The
Rock Hall can't ignore country forever, and they definitely shouldn't ignore the
great Patsy Cline, who I am convinced would be the ballot dark horse that would
run away with a 2020 class spot. Her ability to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with
her male peers is an inspiration, and the way she mentored her female peers is
a reminder to us ladies to uplift your fellow woman instead of tearing her
down. She's influenced everyone from Loretta Lynn to LeAnn Rimes, and her
timeless music makes her more than worthy for the Hall.
Sonic
Youth - Hey,
Kool Thing, come here, sit down/There's something I go to ask you/I just want
to know, what are you gonna do for me?/I mean, are you gonna liberate us
girls/From male white corporate oppression? - "Kool Thing" from the 1990 Sonic Youth album Goo
With
16 studio albums, three compilation albums, seven video releases, 21 singles
and 46 music videos, how in the world has Sonic Youth never been nominated? Their
experimental sound defines "alternative" and influenced a generation
to play outside of the box. They've influenced Beck, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, My Bloody
Valentine, Dinosaur Jr. and oh yeah... NIRVANA. Bassist Krist Novoselic even
said Nirvana's initial goal was simply “to do as good as Sonic Youth.” Kim
Gordon is such an incredible frontwoman on her own, she even had Carrie Underwood
headbanging during her brilliant performance of Nirvana's "Aneurysm"
at the 2014 ceremony.
Suzi
Quatro -"I
just don't like being ignored because that's not correct. It's a big fault. I
hear from a lot of people -- they say, 'What? You're not in it?!' No -- and my
biggest fan is, and that's not right. You can't rewrite history just to suit
your organization." - Suzi Quatro
Full
disclosure, I originally had The Runaways in this spot but then realized I was
wrong and I'm woman enough to admit that! Suzi majorly influenced my beloved
Runaways and she should rightfully be in first, and her significance of being a
pioneering woman in the glam rock scene is undeniable. She is critical to
paving the way for not only The Runaways, but also Heart, The Pretenders,
Siouxsie and the Banshees and countless others. She's one of the many women the
Rock Hall should be ashamed for excluding, and I think she’d do well on a
ballot.
Warren
Zevon - "One
day I hope to come back here for the induction for my friend Warren
Zevon." - David Letterman during the 2017 Pearl Jam induction.
Warren
enjoyed every sandwich, but critics and fans have never been able to enjoy his
inclusion into the Rock Hall because of the mind-boggling fact this revered
singer songwriter has never even been nominated. While perhaps he didn't enjoy
the populist chart success of some of the bands inducted in recent years, there
is no denying that his body of work is extensive, exemplary and beloved. Bruce
Springsteen called him the greatest songwriter, and Warren's fans also include
Jackson Browne, Linda Ronstadt, R.E.M. and Fleetwood Mac. With fans like that,
I can't imagine he'd languish long on a ballot.
So
those are my 15 ballot picks, but wait...there’s more.
Trying
to limit my picks to a certain number of artists is agonizing for me and I will
always find a way to bend the rules. In that spirit, I have also chosen picks
for Early Influences, the Ahmet Ertegun Award and the Award for Musical Excellence. I
know many people don’t like these categories because they feel they are a
lesser induction, especially the Award for Musical Excellence. I understand
that viewpoint but I personally don’t see it that way, though I’m moderately
more forgiving towards the Rock Hall than most.
The
long and short of it is, the Rock Hall has a backlog of artists who need to be
inducted, and while having more inductees per year would be a simple solution
to the problem, it seems for whatever reason that the Rock Hall is not going to
deploy it anytime soon. I don’t understand it either; if Eric and I had our
druthers, we would support the Rock Hall doing two nights of inductions and
inducting 10-15 artists per class. As much as an idealist as I am, I never,
ever see that happening. It’s not ideal, but our best chance at chipping away
at the backlog is utilizing Musical Excellence. At the end of the day if it’s a
choice between a worthy artist never getting in, or them being inducted via a
backdoor manner, I will pick the “lesser” option every time unless it’s the
Singles category. We cannot complain about people being left out, but then also
complain when an effort is made to induct them.
Lastly,
let’s face it, we’re the only group of people who care this much about the
minute details with the Rock Hall. The public at large isn’t going to care or
understand the difference of an artist being inducted as a performer or as a
Musical Excellence pick, they will just see them as a Rock hall inductee. And
you know what, I think there is credence sometimes to simply letting go of the
labels and being happy that the artists we love are being celebrated. With that
said, let’s talk categories!
Early
Influences: The Carter Family
This
was a no-brainer pick for me and frankly, it's shocking that the Carters are
not already in as Early Influence. When you’ve influenced every country artist
alive, including Johnny Cash, and acts such as The Grateful Dead then you
belong in the Rock Hall. (Discussed on Episode 8)
Ahmet
Ertegun Award: Rick Rubin
He
created Def Jam Records, has worked with a staggering amount of musical acts
(many of them Rock Hall inductees), and even helped Aerosmith revitalize their
career with their collaboration with Run D.M.C. on “Walk This Way”. He is
critical to hip-hop and metal, and I can only imagine the talent who would
raise their hands to be the one to induct Rick or perform a set in his honor. Maybe
we’d even get a Slayer performance at a Rock Hall ceremony after all!
Award
for Musical Excellence: Tina Turner
This
might but controversial, but if I had to pick a “backdoor” person for
induction, then I think I would have to go with Tina Turner. She is already in
as a performer, so it doesn’t seem as egregious to use this category to honor
her solo career and shine a spotlight on the fact that she is pretty damn excellent. One might even
say, she’s simply the best. (Discussed on Episode 2)
So
that’s my idealist ballot. I guess now we wait and see if this year maybe there
is an idealist or two on the nominating committee! Thank you guys so much for
indulging me, thanks Eric for letting me invade E-Rockracy, and finally, thanks to
everyone who has supported the Hall Watchers podcast! Happy Rock Hall season!
Make sure you don't miss our podcast episode on Monday, September 2nd, where we will recap all 33 artists we picked for the 2020 Rock Hall season!
Make sure you don't miss our podcast episode on Monday, September 2nd, where we will recap all 33 artists we picked for the 2020 Rock Hall season!
August 29, 2019
Predictions: The 2020 Rock Hall Nominees
Who will be on this October's Rock & Roll Hall of Fame ballot? If the current conversations around the Hall portend anything, more women will be nominated, along with a genre-spanning mix of the overdue and newly eligible.
Here are E-Rockracy's 15 predictions for the Class of 2020 ballot, in no particular order:
Oasis - Dear god, here we go. Major reunions of fractured, grudge-holding rock acts are a bit scarce at induction ceremonies (KISS refused to play with Ace and Peter, Axl didn't show up in 2012, etc.), so if the Hall can put Gallagher brothers Liam and Noel together, it deserves some type of peace prize. If it did happen, though, it would be monumental (one wonders if Liam and Noel are just waiting for this honor to kick off Oasis 2.0). The band was always a more significant concern in the U.K., but did make waves in the States with "Champagne Supernova" and the ubiquitous "Wonderwall," currently being howled at a karaoke bar near you. Further, "Don't Look Back in Anger" has become an anthem of resilience in Manchester, and for deeply tragic reasons: The song was performed by Noel at a benefit concert for the 22 victims of the terror attack at Ariana Grande's show in the city in 2017. To hear a stadium full of young people singing a song that existed before they did speaks to the triumph of both the human spirit and, yes, rock and roll. This would be a first-ballot induction, and not even Radiohead achieved that, but it's easy to imagine Oasis on the nominee list, at least. Do they get in? Another story, morning glory.
The Go-Go's - Belinda Carlisle, Jane Wiedlin, Charlotte Caffey, Gina Schock, and Kathy Valentine make up the only all-female group that wrote and played its own music to top the Billboard 200 chart. The band started out as punks, then went pop, taking over radio and MTV in the '80s with such hits as "Vacation," "Our Lips Are Sealed" and "We Got the Beat." Their legacy is secure, and their influence is far more wide-reaching than most people realize. They reportedly came up in the nominating committee meeting last year, and it's a safe bet they will again. One benefit of a Go-Go's induction that bears mentioning: It would result in five (living) women filling out ballots next year, and going forward.
Duran Duran - The Rock Hall loves a fan vote winner, and is there any doubt that these punchy-sounding, magnetic MTV heroes would just crush that metric? (This fanbase's passion might exceed even Bon Jovi's.) It may seem a bit too neat and tidy that Roxy Music's induction speakers would find their band enshrined immediately the next year, but hysteria-generating headliners for the ceremony are always welcome. Duran Duran is still active and in demand; a recent high-profile gig was at Kennedy Space Center, where they performed their recent song "The Universe Alone" to help celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing. This October, look for the"Fab Five" (Simon Le Bon, Nick Rhodes, John Taylor, Andy Taylor, Roger Taylor) to land on the ballot.
Notorious B.I.G. - "Birthdays was the worst days/Now we drink champagne when we thirsty..." A more epitomizing couplet of the American success story (i.e., from drug dealer to rap king) of the late Notorious B.I.G. might not be found. While many hip-hop stars would gladly show up to perform for Biggie (Christopher Wallace), an additional idea might also reside in the all-star jam: Potential fellow inductees Duran Duran could lead a rendition of their galvanizing song "Notorious" (once actually sampled by Wallace) as a bonus nod to this rap icon. Considered possibly the best rapper of all time, Biggie's influence can be heard in disciples ranging from Eminem to Foxy Brown to Kendrick Lamar.
Judas Priest - In October last year, nominating committee member Alan Light disclosed on SiriusXM's "Feedback" show that these metal gods did "horrendously" in the final voting tallies in 2017 (for the Class of 2018), so that explains why they were missing entirely from this past ballot. If a metalhead can be wildly optimistic, though, it would be amazing to see Priest follow the Janet Jackson pattern, i.e., she was left off the nominee list for a year, and then nominated/inducted the next. There's no question this band needs to be in, it's just a matter of when (seriously, given guitarist Glenn Tipton's Parkinson's diagnosis, the sooner the better). A Priest induction opens the door for other worthy metal acts, including Iron Maiden, Ronnie James Dio, and Slayer.
Cher - Is there a more fascinating American life than Cherilyn Sarkisian's? A woman that has seen and done it all, with a singing/TV/film career spanning decades, from Sonny & Cher to her solo work. So many hits from "The Goddess of Pop," so little time. Plus, she's a Tony Award away from an EGOT. Suffice to say, this is a justifiable honor for a tough, no-nonsense woman who asserted independence and control in an unforgiving industry. She could justifiably be carved on popular music's Mt. Rushmore. Imagine this induction performance.
Todd Rundgren - The ballot often features artists two years in a row; Todd Rundgren will be back again this year. He came in third in the Rock Hall Fan Vote in 2018, and that's a fact the Hall simply cannot ignore. Whether one is talking about his work in Nazz, Utopia or as a solo artist, here's a multifaceted musical virtuoso that's been in the conversation for years. His colossal recording and performing career encompasses singer-songwriter fare ("Hello It's Me," "I Saw the Light"), producing credits (Meat Loaf's Bat Out of Hell, Badfinger's Straight Up, XTC's Skylarking), and even playing in Ringo Starr's All-Starr Band. Futuristic, bravely experimental, and forever on the fringe, Rundgren would lend some artistic depth to the ceremony next April (and the fans love him).
Sleater-Kinney - The Pacific Northwest has yielded a ridiculous number of superlative, meaningful bands. Olympia, Washington's Sleater-Kinney, purveyors of a dynamic, fierce brand of indie rock, can officially be counted among them. Critical and cult favorites, Corin Tucker, Carrie Brownstein and Janet Weiss shook listeners up with such persuasive landmark albums as Dig Me Out and All Hands on the Bad One. This feminist trio, currently in their first year of eligibility, is viewed by many as one of the best bands of the late 20th and early-21st century. Punk rock? Yep. Riot Grrrl? Sure. Hall worthy? All the credentials are here. There was some recent S-K controversy, as Weiss just left the group, but they are pressing forward in 2019 with The Center Won't Hold, an album produced by St. Vincent's Annie Clark.
The Doobie Brothers - Among the many surprises of last year's nominee list (John Prine! The Cure!) was the omission of the Doobie Brothers. The consensus among Rock Hall followers was that Doobies manager/music mogul Irving Azoff would grease the wheels for a nomination. (He also manages No Doubt, so stay tuned.) It feels unlikely the easy-grooving, harmony-loving Bay Area group misses this year's ballot. While Gen X is noticeably being accommodated more at the Hall of late (Nirvana! The Cure!), baby boomers are still very much at the table. The Doobies serve a demographic that the Hall is still invested in. And this ceremony performance would be so well-received by everyone, there's really no downside to inviting them to the party.
Kraftwerk - With five nominations (tying them with Joe Tex and the J. Geils Band), one has to think the Hall will fix this absurd Kraftwerk oversight once and for all. This act is a missing corner brick in the Rock Hall pyramid; for all intents and purposes, they pioneered electronic music. Honestly, putting otherwise deserving, synth-based acts like New Order and Nine Inch Nails in before them would be unseemly, and those acts would likely agree. It would be like putting Green Day in before the Buzzcocks or something.
J. Geils Band - Always the bridesmaid... well, you know. Nominated a whopping five times to date, this high-spirited outfit is a favorite of Steven Van Zandt. If this prediction holds and he gets the J. Geils Band on the ballot for a sixth time this year, it would be a safe bet they get inducted, too. Helping their Rock Hall case is singer/former Boston radio DJ Peter Wolf, esteemed by the institution enough to be invited twice as an induction speaker (for Paul Butterfield Blues Band in 2015 and Jackie Wilson in 1987). The J. Geils Band is just one of those acts that checks all the boxes for the Hall. Looking back on their history, they were an exciting live unit, and distilled the finer points of blues, R&B, boogie and even new wave on hits like "Musta Got Lost," "Give It to Me," "Freeze Frame" and "Love Stinks." Unfortunately, and too frequently the case for unnecessarily delayed Rock Hall inductees, namesake guitarist J. Geils passed in 2017, but the rest of the band would certainly take the stage and perform in his honor.
TLC - Few girl groups have sold more albums than TLC, who reigned supreme in the 1990s with an catchy fusion of pop, New Jack swing and take-no-mess R&B. CrazySexyCool was the key album, and the gargantuan hit singles were "Creep" and the inescapable "Waterfalls." This fearless trio set the table for so many that followed, from Destiny's Child to Britney Spears to Christina Aguilera. Tionne "T-Boz" Watkins, rapper Lisa "Left Eye" Lopes and Rozonda "Chilli" Thomas were three women with style and talents that coalesced into something extraordinary; their music really made the world stand up and take notice. Sadly, Lopes died in a car accident in 2002, but TLC's legend lives on, with Watkins and Thomas still releasing albums and touring in recent years.
Willie Nelson - A certified American treasure and a genuine Rock Hall snub, Nelson is associated with country and Americana, but he truly transcends genre. His songwriting, resilience and hard-touring ways set a blueprint for generations of musicians after him across the American musical spectrum. It may finally be Nelson's time, as country-affiliated inductees have been scarce of late; the last few examples include the country-adjacent Linda Ronstadt (2014) , rockabilly queen Wanda Jackson (2009), Bob Wills and his Texas Playboys (1999), and Nelson's friend and Highwaymen collaborator Johnny Cash (1992).
Depeche Mode - Brilliantly creative titans of synth-pop and reigning commercial and critical champions of the electronic music genre, Depeche Mode somehow feels way overdue for the Hall. The Cure's induction seems to clear the path for David Gahan, Martin Gore and Andy Fletcher (and ideally earlier members Vince Clarke and Alan Wilder) to go right in. (Next up, hopefully: Joy Division and/or New Order). And frankly, if there is a more relevant song in today's sociopolitical climate than "People Are People," someone point it out. Depeche Mode has all the qualifications — a widescreen, bracing sound, and sharp lyrics that boldly traverse the human experience, from lust to greed to transcendence. Nominating committee member/previous Seymour Stein colleague Sandy Alouete, who formerly worked with Depeche Mode at both Sire and Reprise records, is clearly their advocate in the room.
The Spinners - This beloved R&B act, eligible now for 33 years, has had three previous nominations for the classes of 2012, 2015, and 2016, but no Rock Hall induction luck so far. It's well past time for that to change. The Spinners first emerged as a doo-wop group in the '50s, then blossomed into one of greatest soul outfits ever. They were initially signed to Motown, but it was their Atlantic Records tenure that made them stars in the '70s, with hit singles like "Could it Be I'm Falling in Love," "I'll Be Around" and "The Rubberband Man." Sadly, most of the Spinners have passed on, including Bobby Smith, C.P. Spencer, Billy Henderson, Pervis Jackson, George Dixon, Edgar "Chico" Edwards, and Philippé Wynne. Lone surviving member Henry Fambrough keeps the Spinners and their legendary music on the road to this day, and could very well do so in Cleveland next April.
Here are E-Rockracy's 15 predictions for the Class of 2020 ballot, in no particular order:
Oasis - Dear god, here we go. Major reunions of fractured, grudge-holding rock acts are a bit scarce at induction ceremonies (KISS refused to play with Ace and Peter, Axl didn't show up in 2012, etc.), so if the Hall can put Gallagher brothers Liam and Noel together, it deserves some type of peace prize. If it did happen, though, it would be monumental (one wonders if Liam and Noel are just waiting for this honor to kick off Oasis 2.0). The band was always a more significant concern in the U.K., but did make waves in the States with "Champagne Supernova" and the ubiquitous "Wonderwall," currently being howled at a karaoke bar near you. Further, "Don't Look Back in Anger" has become an anthem of resilience in Manchester, and for deeply tragic reasons: The song was performed by Noel at a benefit concert for the 22 victims of the terror attack at Ariana Grande's show in the city in 2017. To hear a stadium full of young people singing a song that existed before they did speaks to the triumph of both the human spirit and, yes, rock and roll. This would be a first-ballot induction, and not even Radiohead achieved that, but it's easy to imagine Oasis on the nominee list, at least. Do they get in? Another story, morning glory.
The Go-Go's - Belinda Carlisle, Jane Wiedlin, Charlotte Caffey, Gina Schock, and Kathy Valentine make up the only all-female group that wrote and played its own music to top the Billboard 200 chart. The band started out as punks, then went pop, taking over radio and MTV in the '80s with such hits as "Vacation," "Our Lips Are Sealed" and "We Got the Beat." Their legacy is secure, and their influence is far more wide-reaching than most people realize. They reportedly came up in the nominating committee meeting last year, and it's a safe bet they will again. One benefit of a Go-Go's induction that bears mentioning: It would result in five (living) women filling out ballots next year, and going forward.
Duran Duran - The Rock Hall loves a fan vote winner, and is there any doubt that these punchy-sounding, magnetic MTV heroes would just crush that metric? (This fanbase's passion might exceed even Bon Jovi's.) It may seem a bit too neat and tidy that Roxy Music's induction speakers would find their band enshrined immediately the next year, but hysteria-generating headliners for the ceremony are always welcome. Duran Duran is still active and in demand; a recent high-profile gig was at Kennedy Space Center, where they performed their recent song "The Universe Alone" to help celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing. This October, look for the"Fab Five" (Simon Le Bon, Nick Rhodes, John Taylor, Andy Taylor, Roger Taylor) to land on the ballot.
Notorious B.I.G. - "Birthdays was the worst days/Now we drink champagne when we thirsty..." A more epitomizing couplet of the American success story (i.e., from drug dealer to rap king) of the late Notorious B.I.G. might not be found. While many hip-hop stars would gladly show up to perform for Biggie (Christopher Wallace), an additional idea might also reside in the all-star jam: Potential fellow inductees Duran Duran could lead a rendition of their galvanizing song "Notorious" (once actually sampled by Wallace) as a bonus nod to this rap icon. Considered possibly the best rapper of all time, Biggie's influence can be heard in disciples ranging from Eminem to Foxy Brown to Kendrick Lamar.
Judas Priest - In October last year, nominating committee member Alan Light disclosed on SiriusXM's "Feedback" show that these metal gods did "horrendously" in the final voting tallies in 2017 (for the Class of 2018), so that explains why they were missing entirely from this past ballot. If a metalhead can be wildly optimistic, though, it would be amazing to see Priest follow the Janet Jackson pattern, i.e., she was left off the nominee list for a year, and then nominated/inducted the next. There's no question this band needs to be in, it's just a matter of when (seriously, given guitarist Glenn Tipton's Parkinson's diagnosis, the sooner the better). A Priest induction opens the door for other worthy metal acts, including Iron Maiden, Ronnie James Dio, and Slayer.
Cher - Is there a more fascinating American life than Cherilyn Sarkisian's? A woman that has seen and done it all, with a singing/TV/film career spanning decades, from Sonny & Cher to her solo work. So many hits from "The Goddess of Pop," so little time. Plus, she's a Tony Award away from an EGOT. Suffice to say, this is a justifiable honor for a tough, no-nonsense woman who asserted independence and control in an unforgiving industry. She could justifiably be carved on popular music's Mt. Rushmore. Imagine this induction performance.
Todd Rundgren - The ballot often features artists two years in a row; Todd Rundgren will be back again this year. He came in third in the Rock Hall Fan Vote in 2018, and that's a fact the Hall simply cannot ignore. Whether one is talking about his work in Nazz, Utopia or as a solo artist, here's a multifaceted musical virtuoso that's been in the conversation for years. His colossal recording and performing career encompasses singer-songwriter fare ("Hello It's Me," "I Saw the Light"), producing credits (Meat Loaf's Bat Out of Hell, Badfinger's Straight Up, XTC's Skylarking), and even playing in Ringo Starr's All-Starr Band. Futuristic, bravely experimental, and forever on the fringe, Rundgren would lend some artistic depth to the ceremony next April (and the fans love him).
Sleater-Kinney - The Pacific Northwest has yielded a ridiculous number of superlative, meaningful bands. Olympia, Washington's Sleater-Kinney, purveyors of a dynamic, fierce brand of indie rock, can officially be counted among them. Critical and cult favorites, Corin Tucker, Carrie Brownstein and Janet Weiss shook listeners up with such persuasive landmark albums as Dig Me Out and All Hands on the Bad One. This feminist trio, currently in their first year of eligibility, is viewed by many as one of the best bands of the late 20th and early-21st century. Punk rock? Yep. Riot Grrrl? Sure. Hall worthy? All the credentials are here. There was some recent S-K controversy, as Weiss just left the group, but they are pressing forward in 2019 with The Center Won't Hold, an album produced by St. Vincent's Annie Clark.
The Doobie Brothers - Among the many surprises of last year's nominee list (John Prine! The Cure!) was the omission of the Doobie Brothers. The consensus among Rock Hall followers was that Doobies manager/music mogul Irving Azoff would grease the wheels for a nomination. (He also manages No Doubt, so stay tuned.) It feels unlikely the easy-grooving, harmony-loving Bay Area group misses this year's ballot. While Gen X is noticeably being accommodated more at the Hall of late (Nirvana! The Cure!), baby boomers are still very much at the table. The Doobies serve a demographic that the Hall is still invested in. And this ceremony performance would be so well-received by everyone, there's really no downside to inviting them to the party.
Kraftwerk - With five nominations (tying them with Joe Tex and the J. Geils Band), one has to think the Hall will fix this absurd Kraftwerk oversight once and for all. This act is a missing corner brick in the Rock Hall pyramid; for all intents and purposes, they pioneered electronic music. Honestly, putting otherwise deserving, synth-based acts like New Order and Nine Inch Nails in before them would be unseemly, and those acts would likely agree. It would be like putting Green Day in before the Buzzcocks or something.
J. Geils Band - Always the bridesmaid... well, you know. Nominated a whopping five times to date, this high-spirited outfit is a favorite of Steven Van Zandt. If this prediction holds and he gets the J. Geils Band on the ballot for a sixth time this year, it would be a safe bet they get inducted, too. Helping their Rock Hall case is singer/former Boston radio DJ Peter Wolf, esteemed by the institution enough to be invited twice as an induction speaker (for Paul Butterfield Blues Band in 2015 and Jackie Wilson in 1987). The J. Geils Band is just one of those acts that checks all the boxes for the Hall. Looking back on their history, they were an exciting live unit, and distilled the finer points of blues, R&B, boogie and even new wave on hits like "Musta Got Lost," "Give It to Me," "Freeze Frame" and "Love Stinks." Unfortunately, and too frequently the case for unnecessarily delayed Rock Hall inductees, namesake guitarist J. Geils passed in 2017, but the rest of the band would certainly take the stage and perform in his honor.
TLC - Few girl groups have sold more albums than TLC, who reigned supreme in the 1990s with an catchy fusion of pop, New Jack swing and take-no-mess R&B. CrazySexyCool was the key album, and the gargantuan hit singles were "Creep" and the inescapable "Waterfalls." This fearless trio set the table for so many that followed, from Destiny's Child to Britney Spears to Christina Aguilera. Tionne "T-Boz" Watkins, rapper Lisa "Left Eye" Lopes and Rozonda "Chilli" Thomas were three women with style and talents that coalesced into something extraordinary; their music really made the world stand up and take notice. Sadly, Lopes died in a car accident in 2002, but TLC's legend lives on, with Watkins and Thomas still releasing albums and touring in recent years.
Willie Nelson - A certified American treasure and a genuine Rock Hall snub, Nelson is associated with country and Americana, but he truly transcends genre. His songwriting, resilience and hard-touring ways set a blueprint for generations of musicians after him across the American musical spectrum. It may finally be Nelson's time, as country-affiliated inductees have been scarce of late; the last few examples include the country-adjacent Linda Ronstadt (2014) , rockabilly queen Wanda Jackson (2009), Bob Wills and his Texas Playboys (1999), and Nelson's friend and Highwaymen collaborator Johnny Cash (1992).
Depeche Mode - Brilliantly creative titans of synth-pop and reigning commercial and critical champions of the electronic music genre, Depeche Mode somehow feels way overdue for the Hall. The Cure's induction seems to clear the path for David Gahan, Martin Gore and Andy Fletcher (and ideally earlier members Vince Clarke and Alan Wilder) to go right in. (Next up, hopefully: Joy Division and/or New Order). And frankly, if there is a more relevant song in today's sociopolitical climate than "People Are People," someone point it out. Depeche Mode has all the qualifications — a widescreen, bracing sound, and sharp lyrics that boldly traverse the human experience, from lust to greed to transcendence. Nominating committee member/previous Seymour Stein colleague Sandy Alouete, who formerly worked with Depeche Mode at both Sire and Reprise records, is clearly their advocate in the room.
The Spinners - This beloved R&B act, eligible now for 33 years, has had three previous nominations for the classes of 2012, 2015, and 2016, but no Rock Hall induction luck so far. It's well past time for that to change. The Spinners first emerged as a doo-wop group in the '50s, then blossomed into one of greatest soul outfits ever. They were initially signed to Motown, but it was their Atlantic Records tenure that made them stars in the '70s, with hit singles like "Could it Be I'm Falling in Love," "I'll Be Around" and "The Rubberband Man." Sadly, most of the Spinners have passed on, including Bobby Smith, C.P. Spencer, Billy Henderson, Pervis Jackson, George Dixon, Edgar "Chico" Edwards, and Philippé Wynne. Lone surviving member Henry Fambrough keeps the Spinners and their legendary music on the road to this day, and could very well do so in Cleveland next April.
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