I’ve criticized the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (Hall) on more than one occasion, especially regarding the Moody Blues. In order to satisfy my disapproval and curiosity, I decided to examine the qualifications established by the Hall for honorees.
According to the Hall’s website,
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame honors the legendary performers, producers, songwriters, disc jockeys and others who have made rock and roll the force that it is in our culture
… to recognize the contributions of those who have had a significant impact on the evolution, development and perpetuation of rock and roll by inducting them into the Hall of Fame.
Eligibility
the artist must have released a record, in the generally accepted sense of that phrase, at least 25 years prior to the year of induction; and have demonstrated unquestionable musical excellence.We shall consider factors such as an artist’s musical influence on other artists, length and depth of career and the body of work, innovation and superiority in style and technique, but musical excellence shall be the essential qualification of induction.
Admissions and Omissions
In the list below, I selected performers in relationship to the status to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. They are randomly paired, and this doesn’t not imply that none of the honored shouldn’t be – but I feel the Hall is missing more than a few worthy artists. At the end is a song by an omission with a fitting title.
In – The Stooges
Out – Yes
In – Green Day
Out – Doobie Brothers
In – Joan Jett & the Blackhearts
Out – Jethro Tull
In – Sex Pistols
Out – Three Dog Night
In – The Staple Singers
Out – The Cars
In – The Clash
Out – Electric Light Orchestra
In – Lovin’ Spoonful
Out – Guess Who
In – Heart
Out – Journey
In – Hall & Oates
Out – Moody Blues
So … what do you think?
A Frank Angle 