n
n
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, Ohio was created to inspire and teach through the power of rock and roll and honor those who have made contributions to the art form we call rock and roll. Many of rock and roll's legends are enshrined in the halls there.
n
n
What is surprising, however, is some of the names missing from those honored by the rock and roll hall of fame, performers who have made great contributions to rock and roll and in many cases been very influential on other artists as well. Certainly, the sheer number of artists makes it hard to get everyone who has contributed to the genre inducted, but there are some who have apparently been ignored and passed over while others of equal and/or lesser stature were honored. Here's a few of those still not a part of the hall of fame…
n
n
Kansas
n
The band has produced nine gold albums, three multi-platinum albums, one other
n
n
platinum studio album , one platinum live double album , and a million-selling single, "Dust in the Wind". Kansas appeared on the US charts for over 200 weeks throughout the 1970s and 1980s. They played to sold-out arenas and stadiums throughout North America, Europe and Japan. "Carry On Wayward Son" was the second-most-played track on US classic rock radio in 1995 and No. 1 in 1997. You can hear their music on classic rock stations and countless playlists on spotify, itunes and many other music streaming services. One place you will NOT find them however, is in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, although they have been eligible since the year 2000. Although they have been a solid force in the Progressive Rock genre for 40 years, they are still waiting recognition from the Hall of Fame.
n
n
Pat Benatar **
n
Pat Benatar rose to fame in the late 1970s and early 1980s with a string of hits that established her as one of the leading women in rock and roll. Her music was characterized by its catchy hooks, powerful vocals, and hard-edged guitar riffs, and she
n
n
became an icon of the emerging music video era. Benatar's hits include "Heartbreaker," "Hit Me with Your Best Shot," "Love Is a Battlefield," and "We Belong," among many others. Her distinctive voice and rebellious attitude helped to pave the way for other women in rock and roll, and her music remains beloved by fans all over the world. Pat Benatar's musical legacy is one of groundbreaking success and enduring influence, and she continues to inspire new generations of rock and roll performers.
n
n
** At the time this was written, Pat did not appear in the list of Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Inductees that was consulted – however, she was indeed finally inducted in 2022, after having been eligible since 2004, so this wrong was at last made right!
n
n
Boston
n
Boston is an American rock band that emerged in the 1970s and quickly became one of the most popular and influential groups of their time. Led by guitarist and songwriter Tom Scholz, the band's sound was characterized by its intricate guitar work, layered harmonies, and innovative use of technology. Their self-titled debut album, released in
n
n
1976, went on to become one of the best-selling debut albums in rock history, and included hits like "More Than a Feeling" and "Peace of Mind." Boston's subsequent albums also achieved massive success, cementing their place in the pantheon of classic rock. Tom Scholz's pioneering use of digital recording technology helped to set new standards for sound quality in rock music, and his unique approach to guitar playing has influenced generations of musicians who followed in his footsteps. Boston's musical legacy is one of innovation, talent, and enduring popularity, and they remain one of the most beloved and respected bands in the history of rock and roll.
n
n
Boston has been eligible for induction since 1995.
n
n
Jim Croce
n
Jim Croce's music was marked by his distinctive voice, intricate guitar work, and an uncanny ability to tell stories through song. Croce's most enduring hits include "Operator," "You Don't Mess Around with Jim," "Time in a Bottle," and "I'll Have to Say I Love You in a
n
n
Song," all of which are considered classics. Unfortunately, Croce's life was cut tragically short when he died in a plane crash in 1973 at the age of just 30, but his music has continued to be beloved by generations of fans. His songs have been covered by countless artists over the years.
n
n
While he is considered to be one of the most talented and influential singer-songwriters of the 1970s, he has not yet been recognized with an induction into the Hall of Fame. However, his music continues to be loved and celebrated by fans all over the world, and his legacy as a storyteller and troubadour remains an important part of the history of American popular music.
n
n
John Prine
n
John Prine left a lasting legacy in the world of music. Born in 1946 in Maywood, Illinois,
n
n
Prine began writing songs and performing in local clubs while still working as a mailman. His music was known for its humor, honesty, and wit, as well as its commentary on the human experience.
n
n
Prine's debut album, "John Prine," was released in 1971 and featured songs like "Sam Stone," "Hello in There," and "Angel from Montgomery." The album was critically acclaimed and helped to establish Prine as a major force in the folk and country music scene. Prine went on to release numerous other albums throughout his career, including "Sweet Revenge," "Diamonds in the Rough," and "Bruised Orange," among others.
n
Prine's music was beloved for its simple and direct approach, as well as its ability to touch on the full range of human emotions. He was able to tackle serious topics like war, addiction, and poverty with a sense of humor and empathy that made his music accessible to a wide range of audiences. Prine's influence can be seen in the work of numerous other artists who have been inspired by his unique style and approach to songwriting.
n
n
In addition to his musical contributions, Prine was also an important advocate for various causes, including environmental issues, AIDS research, and support for veterans. He was a respected member of the music community and was honored with multiple Grammy Awards and other accolades throughout his career. Prine passed away in 2020 at the age of 73, but his music continues to inspire and touch the hearts of fans around the world.
n
n
John was nominated for the class of 2019 of the Rock and Roll hall of fame, but didn't make the final cut.
n
n
——————–
n
It's important to continue to shine a light on those who have been overlooked, and to advocate for their inclusion in the Hall of Fame. After all, the purpose of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is to inspire and teach through the power of rock and roll, and what better way to do that than by recognizing all those who have contributed to the art form we call rock and roll?
n
n
–M–