The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame honors the most influential and significant artists, producers, and other music industry figures who have contributed to the development and growth of rock and roll. Inductees are selected by a committee of musicians, industry professionals, and all of us who consider the artist’s impact, innovation, and longevity.
When it comes to artists who have done it all; you’re sure to see them in the Hall Of Fame. This year’s ballot is a tight one, and surprisingly enough, some may be a bit put off by the current state of the votes.
To refresh, to be eligible for induction, an artist or band must have released their first commercial recording at least 25 years prior to the induction year. The Hall of Fame has inducted over 350 artists and groups, including Elvis Presley, The Beatles, Bob Dylan, Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, Nirvana, and many more. With this year, we may be seeing friends of the aforementioned being inducted.
Taking the first spot on the list, and currently in the lead via voting is none other than the incomparable George Michael. Michael rose to fame as a member of the pop duo Wham! in the 1980s, before embarking on a successful solo career. Michael’s music style ranged from pop to soul, and his distinctive voice and songwriting skills made him a beloved icon of the music industry. George Michael would sadly pass away in 2016, but his touch on music has been evergreen.
In second place for voting is Cyndi Lauper. Cyndi transcended just music in her day by being one of the first huge music icons to also be featured in the WWF (WWE), bridging the gap between the two entertainment facets and making the WWF (WWE) household for everyone. Lauper’s distinctive voice, eclectic style, and playful, colorful image helped her stand out in the pop music landscape of the time. “She’s So Unusual” was a commercial success, featuring hit singles such as “Girls Just Want to Have Fun,” “Time After Time,” and “All Through the Night.”
In third place we have Warren Zevon. Characterized by dark humor, witty lyrics, and a fusion of rock, folk, and country music, Zevon began his music career as a session musician and songwriter, working with artists such as the Everly Brothers and Jackson Browne. He released his debut album, “Wanted Dead or Alive,” in 1969, but it was his self-titled album in 1976 that gained him critical acclaim and a dedicated following.
Metal fans rejoice as we close in on the hard hitting fourth spot with Iron Maiden getting their shine. There’s no way to put it other than Iron Maiden really helped to form metal for what it is today from the lengthy ballads to twisted story telling. They are a for sure into the Hall.
Rounding out the top five – we have Soundgarden. Soundgarden have been eligible for some time now, but never got in before. It looks like this will be their year. Chris Cornell can go in multiple times under himself, Soundgarden, and Audioslave. However, he probably won’t be going in with Timberland. If the Hall of Fame sticks to the fan vote, these are the artists that will go in.
I’m still waiting for Alice In Chains to ever be mentioned. Who are your forgotten picks?
One more time around…https://t.co/ED7sg6c0dW pic.twitter.com/zy0mocf1MO
— Jeffgarden.com (@ijeffgarden) April 26, 2023