The nominees for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame class of 2017 were released this morning. Always interesting to go through the nominees and think of who I would vote for if I had a vote.
I am a big fan of all types of music (excluding most RAP – Not that its bad, I just don’t get it), and most country music – (Probably due to living in the North East where both Country Music and NASCAR are just not popular).
I also have now problem with artists such as Neil Diamond and Madonna making the Hall of Fame (I would have voted for both). I do have an issue on them not giving enough consideration to Heavy Metal acts such as Iron Maiden, Scorpions, and Judas Priest, and Arena Rock acts such as Boston, Foreigner and Styx. Was happy to see Journey making the list and hopefully this will open the doors a bit for other similar acts to follow.
And while I agree that things such as actual record sales, and ticket sales should not be the determining factor, it should count for something. By ignoring these, you start to alienate the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame from the people who keep the music industry alive. It also makes the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame committee seem a bit elitist. Like they know what is really good music, and most of the fans just don’t understand. Kind of like movie reviewers who think all big budget action movies are junk and only like small are house films. There is room for both and each should be celebrated.
As for who Average Andy would vote for for 2017
Joan Baez – Just because
Journey – They were one of the early pioneers of Arena Rock.
Pearl Jam – Not the biggest fan, but they deserve the credit for creating the grunge movement of 1990’s
The Cars – Their debut album “The Cars” does not have a bad song on it
Yes – Pioneers of progressive Rock
Most of the other nominees are well deserving, and its really tough to leave bands such as Depeche Mode, ELO and J. Giles off.
I’m sure there will be much discussion over the next few weeks until the final list is reviled. Best of luck to all
Andy
AverageAndy 