Rock and Roll Hall of Fame: 100 Crucial Omissions

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In Fall 2016, we put together a list of artists that we feel deserve consideration for induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. We update the list each year, deleting those that have finally been selected decades after they were first eligible to be inducted and replacing them with other deserving names.

In that time, many core rock acts that had been overlooked for decades were finally chosen. Notably, that list includes Pat Benatar (2022), Todd Rundgren (2021), the Doobie Brothers (2020), Def Leppard, the Zombies, and Stevie Nicks as a solo artist (2019), the Moody Blues, the Cars, Bon Jovi and Dire Straits (2018), and Yes, the Electric Light Orchestra and Journey (2017).

On May 1, 2023, the Rock Hall announced the inductees for its Class of 2023. With the selection of Kate Bush, Willie Nelson, the Spinners and Link Wray—each of whom had been on this list—into the Class of 2023, Best Classic Bands again updated our feature with four new names.

[There are so many that we’ve written Part 2 of our list of HoF omissions, which includes another 100 artists that have thus far been snubbed. Click the link for Part 2 at the end of this story.]

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Museum in Cleveland

With the Sept. 16, 2023, news that Jann Wenner had been removed from the Rock Hall’s Board, music fans are once again clamoring for their long-overlooked favorites to finally be inducted. Since the Hall’s inception, music fans have argued over who should be in, who shouldn’t be, why and why not? Lists abound online and there is almost never any consensus.

Below we present a list of our own: 100 artists we think deserve nomination. Our reasons for selecting them vary. One factor we considered in particular is whether they were important in their own time, not only how they are regarded today. Some will eventually make the Hall’s cut, others never will, and that’s just how it is. You will undoubtedly agree with some of our picks and we can already hear you shouting,“I can’t believe they left out (fill in the blank)!” Feel free to offer your comments.

In order to be eligible, an artist must have made their first recording 25 years prior to the current year (for the 2021 class, that means 1996).

One other note: This list considers only artists who recorded primarily under their own names. This is the only category that is submitted to the voting body each year. Thus it does not include musicians who have served primarily as “sidemen” or “sidewomen.” Some of the greatest musicians in rock history have never received the recognition they deserve because they contribute mostly to others’ recordings. The Hall of Fame has a separate sideman category, to which it occasionally appoints names its executives deem worthy. As those artists are not submitted for consideration to voters, we are not concerning ourselves with them here.

Names are listed alphabetically

The Association—Their ballads “Cherish” and “Never My Love” are among the most played songs in history. And “Along Comes Mary” is another classic.

B-52’s—One of the most danceable of the American post-punk bands, their tunes like “Love Shack” and “Rock Lobster” were a whole lot of fun.

Bad Company—Singer Paul Rodgers should also be in for the band Free, but we’ll settle for these crunching blues-rockers.

Badfinger—They have a tragic story but such great songs—and Beatle-approved, too.

Blood, Sweat and Tears—Along with Chicago, they kick-started the horn-rock genre of the late ’60s and early ’70s.

Blue Öyster Cult—Hard-rock meets prog with lots of pre-punk attitude.

Blues Project—The New York quintet was tremendously influential. Keyboardist/vocalist Al Kooper and guitarist Danny Kalb were superb instrumentalists. [Note: Kooper is being inducted on his own in 2023.]

Boston—This perfectionist classic rock band, which scored with one of the best-selling debut albums of all-time, wasn’t very prolific afterwards but still retains a huge fan base.

Glen Campbell—Yes, he was usually tagged as country-pop, but for his session work alone (Spector, Beach Boys, Monkees) he should go in. Plus, he played a killer guitar.

Related: 13 times when Glen Campbell rocked

Canned Heat—One of the great blues-rock bands of the ’60s. The real deal. Here they are at the 1967 Monterey Pop Festival.

Captain Beefheart—Never sold any records but had a tremendous influence on other experimental rockers.

The Carpenters—Some may say they’re too lightweight to be considered rock but Karen Carpenter’s voice is a thing of beauty, and they made wonderful pop records.

Harry Chapin—A supremely talented singer/songwriter whose life was tragically cut short, he had hits like “Cat’s in the Cradle” and “Taxi.” Also one of music’s most generous spirits, who worked ceaselessly for humanitarian causes.

Chubby Checker—He took “The Twist” to #1 twice, in two different years. Give the man his due already!

Cher—Is she rock? Probably more so than Madonna, who’s been inducted. And let’s not forget those good times with Sonny.

Joe Cocker—That voice! That thing he did with his hands! A master interpreter of songs. Did we mention that voice?

Judy Collins—More than just another talented folk singer, she was one of the artists who defined her generation.

Phil Collins—Already in as a member of Genesis, but he arguably had a bigger impact on his own.

Ry Cooder—For his guitar work alone he should be enshrined. Add his work as solo artist and producer, and it’s a no-brainer.

Country Joe and the Fish—San Francisco psychedelia met Berkeley social commentary in the ’60s. They were ubiquitous at festivals and on radio.

Jim Croce—His life was cut short before he had a chance to truly develop but the trove of hits he left behind was substantial.

The Crystals—Even more than the Ronettes, the Crystals were Phil Spector’s go-to girl group. Darlene Love and La La Brooks were (and still are) dynamic singers.

Dick Dale—The man invented surf guitar. That’s enough.

Related: A Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Cynic Visits the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

Delaney and Bonnie—The husband-and-wife duo’s soul-rock revue at various times included Duane Allman, Gregg Allman, George Harrison, Leon Russell, Bobby Whitlock, Dave Mason, Rita Coolidge, King Curtis, and, oh yeah, Eric Clapton.

John Denver—The Hall has been somewhat selective about the singer-songwriters it’s chosen, but the late “Rocky Mountain High” man was inarguably one of the most popular.

Emerson, Lake and Palmer—Prog-rock virtuosity and over-the-top showmanship all condensed into a powerful little package.

Marianne Faithfull—From Stones-associated chanteuse she reinvented herself as world-weary interpreter of the first order.

Flying Burrito Brothers—One of the seminal country-rock bands. Criminally overlooked.

Dan Fogelberg—The beloved singer-songwriter is best remembered for songs like “Part of the Plan,” “Same Old Lang Syne” and “Leader of the Band.”

Foreigner—Few mainstream arena-rock bands were bigger in the late ’70s/’80s, and anthems like “Hot Blooded” and “Cold as Ice” are emblematic of that era’s radio-friendly mindset.

Peter Frampton—Beside creating one of the best-selling albums ever (Frampton Comes Alive), he’s a monster guitarist and engaging showman.

Free—We listed Bad Company, the other band featuring the soulful frontman Paul Rodgers, above. Free was just as great. You can’t not sing along with their “All Right Now.”

J. Geils Band—Killer live band fronted by the dynamic Peter Wolf. In their heyday they were always the best show in town. Hits included “Centerfold” and “Love Stinks.”

Lesley Gore—“It’s My Party,” “You Don’t Own Me” and so many more hits. She was every teenage girl’s BFF in the ’60s.

Grand Funk Railroad—One of the first truly divisive rock bands, but love ’em or hate ’em you can’t deny they helped popularize hard rock.

The Grass Roots—Easy to forget them until you look at their long string of smashes: “Midnight Confessions,” “Let’s Live for Today,” “Temptation Eyes” and many more.

Related: Our feature story on the Grass Roots

The Guess Who—The Canadian band led by Burton Cummings and Randy Bachman was another hit machine: “American Woman,” “These Eyes,” “No Sugar Tonight,” etc.

Emmylou Harris—Few singer-songwriters so successfully straddled the worlds of traditional Nashville country and the modern singer-songwriter genre of the ’70s and ’80s. And she still sounds amazing today.

Richie Havens—One of the most distinctive voices ever, he made every song he covered his own. And he opened the Woodstock fest.

Herman’s Hermits—They weren’t popular only because singer Peter Noone was “cute.” They also made many durable pop hits.

Related: Our interview with Noone

John Hiatt—A consistently excellent singer-songwriter, he’s got a rich catalog of songs that have been covered by everyone from Dylan to Ronstadt to Clapton.

Humble Pie—Steve Marriott is already in with Small Faces but his second great band is equally deserving. These guys seriously rocked.

Billy Idol—From his start with Brit punks Generation X and onward into his high-profile, MTV-era solo years, he delivered a string of high-energy rock tunes and a few memorable ballads.

Iron Maiden—One of the most successful and accessible metal bands of all-time, with tens of millions of album sales—and thousands of live shows—to their name, they’re still going strong after four decades.

Tommy James and the Shondells—“Crimson and Clover,” “Crystal Blue Persuasion” and, of course, “Hanky Panky.” So many hits, all very diverse.

Related: Our interview with Tommy James on all those hits

Jethro Tull—Their detractors will never understand why, but Ian Anderson and the band sold tons of records and were a major concert act for years.

Tom Jones—This masterful interpreter of songs belongs in. As a live performer, he’s better than ever now, and his past few albums have been spectacular.

Watch Tom Jones sing “Show Me,” a song made famous by another artist on our list, Joe Tex

Ben E. King—Inducted as a member of the Drifters, but his solo output includes “Stand By Me” and “Spanish Harlem.” He needs his own slot in the Hall.

King Crimson—Prog at its most inventive. Whatever you think of the genre on the whole, you must acknowledge that Robert Fripp is a genius.

Cyndi Lauper—One of the biggest stars of the ’80s and beyond, her hits like “Girls Just Want to Have Fun,” “True Colors” and “Time After Time” are still radio staples today.

Gordon Lightfoot—If fellow Canadians like Neil Young and Joni Mitchell can make the cut, why not this terrific, recently departed singer-songwriter?

Little Feat—This L.A. outfit was just so funky, and with the late Lowell George as their lead guitarist they left audiences numb night after night.

Los Lobos—For five decades this East L.A. band has continued to innovate. Their output has been consistently strong since day one, and in concert they kill.

Love—Fronted by the gifted singer-songwriter Arthur Lee, this ’60s L.A. band was, for a while, as important to that scene as the Byrds and Buffalo Springfield.

Marshall Tucker Band—One of the most creative and durable of the Southern Rock bands, their best known tunes include “Can’t You See” and “Heard It in a Love Song.”

Dave Matthews Band—From the early ’90s into the ’20s, the Virginia-based band was one of the biggest concert draws in the States, with five chart-topping albums to boot.

John Mayall—He’s the father of British blues—Clapton, Peter Green and Mick Taylor all came out of his bands.

Related: Our Album Rewind of Mayall’s Blues Breakers With Eric Clapton

MC5—These wild Detroit rockers bucked convention in the late ’60s, mixing hard rock and revolutionary rhetoric—inspiring countless punk bands.

Meat Loaf—Larger than life in several ways, his Bat Out of Hell collaborations with Jim Steinman, both of them now gone, have persevered as classic rock staples.

The Meters—They are nothing less than the quintessential New Orleans funk/R&B band. That makes them pretty important, no?

The Monkees—Enough with the “didn’t play their own instruments” excuse. Their records were some of the finest pop-rock of the era, and their influence on the rock video medium was incalculable.

Motörhead—Fronted by the beloved singer-bassist Lemmy Kilmister, they were the quintessential British metal band, spawning subgenres like speed metal and thrash.

Mott the Hoople—Just for the fact that they gave us the brilliant Ian Hunter, they belong in. Mott was more than glam; they rocked big-time.

Mountain—Leslie West and company took hard rock to the next level. “Mississippi Queen,” of course, but there was a lot more going on there.

The Neville Brothers—New Orleans funk royalty, the quartet included singer Aaron Neville, who scored a solo hit with “Tell it Like it Is” and a smash duet, “Don’t Know Much,” with Linda Ronstadt.

New York Dolls—Seriously, the Dolls are not in? Yes, their whole glam style thing was over the top, but they rocked like crazy and were a major influence on the punk scene.

Watch the Dolls sing “Personality Crisis”

Harry Nilsson—There are still many important singer-songwriters still on the outs, but it’s simply criminal that Nilsson has been ignored. He was loved by the Beatles and just about everyone else.

Ozzy Osbourne—He’s already inducted as the leader of Black Sabbath, but his solo career should be acknowledged for its longevity alone—almost no one expected him to live this long!

Phish—Formed in 1983 in Vermont, the jam-band’s unpredictable concerts, based on improvisational segments and complex arrangements, are legendary. They still fill stadiums regularly.

Poco—Another of the essential country-rock pioneers unjustly ignored.

Iggy PopInducted for the Stooges, but he’s arguably had even more influence as a solo artist.

John Prine—This 2018 nominee finally received recognition for his decades of solid songcraft and heartfelt performances.

Procol Harum—Just for “A Whiter Shade of Pale” alone they should get the nod, but they went on to record about a half dozen killer albums after that. And live—wow, especially in the early days with guitarist Robin Trower! RIP Gary Brooker and Keith Reid!

Quicksilver Messenger Service—Along with the Dead and the Airplane, QMS defined the San Francisco scene. Give them their due too. Guitarist John Cipollina played like no one else!

REO Speedwagon—Although they were never a critics’ favorite, the Illinois-based rockers have sold tens of millions of records and retain a large fan base.

Paul Revere and the Raiders—With charismatic frontman Mark Lindsay, they released hit after hit: “Kicks,” “Hungry,” “Just Like Me” and more.

Related: We talked to Lindsay about the Raiders’ “Good Thing”

Cliff Richard and the Shadows—Richard was Britain’s reigning pre-Beatles solo artist. His backup band the Shadows influenced the Beatles and everyone else in the U.K. They should each have their own place but we’d be happy to see them honored jointly.

Johnny Rivers—No one reimagined others’ songs as deliciously: “Memphis,” “Secret Agent Man,” “Baby I Need Your Lovin’,” “Summer Rain.” He was a constant presence on the charts for years and still performs today.

Related: Our feature on Johnny Rivers

Diana Ross—As if she hadn’t already broken enough ground with the Supremes, Ross then went on to have a huge solo career, with #1 hits like “Upside Down” and “Touch Me in the Morning.”

Related: Many of these artists are still on the road – Links for 100s of tours

Mitch Ryder and the Detroit Wheels—Rockin’ blue-eyed soul at its finest. “Devil With a Blue Dress On” alone makes him worthy.

Boz Scaggs—The guitarist and singer brought classy stylishness, and a jazzy elegance, to the Bay Area music scene in the ’70s, then expanded beyond that with first-rate albums like Silk Degrees.

Neil Sedaka—After racking up a series of hits in the early ’60s, like “Calendar Girl,” he returned a decade later with more, this time with major support from Elton John.

Squeeze—Fronted by Chris Difford and Glenn Tilbrook, they turned out one classic pop-rock gem after another, including such great tunes as “Cool for Cats” and “Tempted.”

Steppenwolf—Yes, the band behind “Born to Be Wild” and “Magic Carpet Ride” is still on the outs. What’s up with that?

Styx—When we inadvertently left these Chicago-based prog-rockers off of our initial list, their multitude of fans came after us with torches. But the truth is that the Hall routinely ignores bands of this ilk, and it’s time they got over it.

Television—Most of the other big NYC punk-era bands are in but Television predated all of them. Highly influential but someone forgot to tell the Hall. RIP Tom Verlaine!

Ten Years After—Did you ever see the Woodstock movie? Remember watching Alvin Lee shred? That was just a taste.

Thin Lizzy—The Irish rockers led by the late Phil Lynott were a whole lot of fun to watch and kicked ass live. “The Boys Are Back in Town” indeed.

Rufus Thomas—From the Stax Records stable that gave us Otis Redding and Booker T. and the MG’s, but he actually began his career in Memphis long before. An R&B giant.

Three Dog Night—If we judge Hall of Fame nominees by the impact they had in their own time, then Three Dog Night deserves a look. Hit after hit after hit.

Toto—This group of virtuoso musicians made a significant impact together but the band’s members have also been first-call sidemen for decades.

The Turtles—The L.A. band was one of the few that didn’t use studio musicians, and they came up with “Happy Together,” “She’d Rather be With Me,” “Elenore” and more. That’s impressive.

Jr. Walker and the All Stars—Walker was the only Motown star who was primarily an instrumentalist. His sax powered hits like “Shotgun” and “Road Runner,” great stuff all.

War—They’ve been nominated but have yet to make the final cut. They fused R&B with funk, rock, jazz and more to create their own sound.

Dionne Warwick—Even just as the premier interpreter of the songs of Burt Bacharach and Hal David, she was a special artist. But there was so much more beyond those.

Barry White—Did you ever hear Barry White’s voice? And if so, can you ever forget Barry White’s voice? Didn’t think so.

Edgar Winter—Like his late brother Johnny, Edgar Winter has been a favorite of dedicated rockers for 50 years, and his huge hit “Frankenstein” still receives airplay.

Johnny Winter—There was never an artist like him before, and never again will be. A spellbinding guitarist and master performer. Watch him perform “Jumpin’ Jack Flash.”

Steve Winwood—Inducted with Traffic, but he needs to be similarly honored for his solo career.

Warren Zevon—He’s one of the most beloved singer-songwriters of the past four decades, yet he’s been inexplicably shunned by the Hall. What are you waiting for?!

For Part Two, we’ve included several worthy artists from the 1980s. Click here.

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Best Classic Bands Staff

272 Comments so far

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  1. Nilssonian
    #1 Nilssonian 16 October, 2016, 14:45

    Harry Nilsson’s songs have been covered by dozens of artists making him a very influential force in the history of rock.

    Reply this comment
    • Speedy Lee
      Speedy Lee 14 December, 2018, 18:26

      I agree, Harry Nilsson’s songs are generally fantastic !! And, I want to give a shout out to the GREAT Alvin Lee and his band Ten Years After…a great, diverse band with monster chops, great songs and albums. “A Space in Time” is a killer album from start to finish, and with a lot of great acoustic guitar songs and playing by Alvin. THEY ARE HALL OF FAMERS, NO DOUBT !!!

      Reply this comment
    • Terry M
      Terry M 10 February, 2021, 17:43

      John Hiatt.. wish I knew how to start a campaign to get him in..
      Sure as I’m sitting here.. Three Dog Night
      Thing Called Love..
      Bonnie Raitt
      Riding with the King..
      B.B. King and E.C.
      Angel Eyes…
      Jeff Healey
      Feels Like Rain..
      Buddy Guy
      Aaron Neville
      Detroit Made..
      Bob Seger
      .

      Reply this comment
      • anthony
        anthony 25 January, 2022, 06:31

        I couldn’t agree more. Buddy Guy, Jeff Healey, Bonnie Rait and all the others deserve to be in the hall of fame. Absolutely.

        Reply this comment
      • Mikefromthehammer
        Mikefromthehammer 4 May, 2022, 21:29

        I think the “theory” why 3 Dog Night is not in is that they did not write their own material. They were HUGELY popular though, which I think should be the main criteria.

        Reply this comment
    • Fos--L.Fossil Brown
      Fos--L.Fossil Brown 10 October, 2021, 01:08

      When
      Most artists are long forgotten
      Nilson–will still be played around the globe…
      This is obviously unimportant to the musical mavens who vote for the members.
      It’s the people who tell us who is the greatest!
      They should decide……

      Reply this comment
  2. Mary
    #2 Mary 16 October, 2016, 14:50

    I sincerely thank you for the nod.

    Lead singer The Shangri-Las.

    Mary Weiss

    Reply this comment
    • Jeff Tamarkin
      Jeff Tamarkin 16 October, 2016, 16:49

      Thanks for your thanks, Mary! I saw the Shangs in 1965 at one of the beach clubs on Long Island! I’ve always loved those records. And your recent solo album is terrific!

      Reply this comment
    • too
      too 14 December, 2017, 15:05

      The Shangri-Las top my list, followed closely by Link Wray and Love.

      Reply this comment
    • Lorelei
      Lorelei 9 May, 2022, 03:33

      Look out! Look out! Look out!!! I hope this is really you so I can tell you how much I loved listening to you guys on the radio when I was a kid! I hope you are well 🙂

      Reply this comment
  3. MK
    #3 MK 16 October, 2016, 16:07

    Although they were not my favorite bands, Three Dog Night, The Guess Who and Grand Funk Railroad dominated 70x radio with hit after hit.
    One of my all time faves is Huey Smith. He’ll never get in and as far as piano players go, he is second only to Little Richard.

    Reply this comment
    • juniebjones
      juniebjones 16 October, 2016, 17:24

      I cannot believe some of these omissions. i stopped paying attention a long time ago, when bands I didn’t really deem worthy started getting in, but no King Crimson, Jethro Tull, Harry Nilsson? I could go on and on after looking at this list. What a diservice.

      Reply this comment
      • the mookster
        the mookster 13 May, 2021, 14:22

        I agree. I would also argue that the following should have been inducted long ago: Supertramp, Alan Parsons Project, Tears For Fears.

        Reply this comment
    • Mark
      Mark 17 October, 2016, 00:35

      How about America? They also dominated in the 70’s

      Reply this comment
    • Desch
      Desch 15 June, 2019, 13:37

      I looked at the list of the 100 artist that they say should have been inducted into the hall of fame. I agree with lots of them but highly disagree with more of them. Let us all remember it’s called the ROCK N ROLL HALL OF FAME FOR A REASON. There are a lot of listed artists that do not even come close to playing rock n roll.l music. Let’s all remember what Rock n roll actually is and which artists actually record rock n roll music. Just my opinion and everyone has one. I mean really one quick one…the j giels band is not in grand funk railroad Peter Frampton foreigner ….just to name a few. Ok so I got carried away lol

      Reply this comment
      • Swewdog
        Swewdog 8 May, 2023, 20:57

        There are plenty of non-Rock inductees in the “Hall”. Dolly Parton? Willie Nelson (nominated this year) Is Madonna truly rock? Too bad there’s not a true Rock n’ Roll Hall of Fame.

        Reply this comment
    • Noah
      Noah 16 October, 2019, 06:47

      Deep Purple, Led Zeppelin, Yes, Uriah Heep, Styx, Chicago, more… ALL profoundly influenced by VANILLA FUDGE

      Reply this comment
    • Sam
      Sam 16 January, 2020, 08:24

      Ike Turner should be inducted as an early pioneer or as a sideman. He was an influential session musician and talent scout for Sun Records and Modern Records. He discovered Howlin Wolf, Little Junior Parker and other legendary blues musicians. Plus his song “Rocket 88” is a contender for first rock and roll song. This was all before he discovered Tina!

      Reply this comment
  4. dmg
    #4 dmg 16 October, 2016, 17:17

    Great list!!

    Here are a few that I’d probably include in my own list:

    J.J. Cale: Father of the Tulsa Sound. Two of Eric Clapton’s biggest hits belong to him, as does one of Lynyrd Skynyrd’s. He’s been covered countless times, by not just the aforementioned Clapton and Skynyrd, but by artists like Santana, Kansas, Poco, Johnny Cash, and John Mayer. Artists ranging from Eric Clapton to Dire Straits to Beck and John Mayer cite him as an influence.

    Big Maybelle: She was doin’ a whole lotta shakin’ before Jerry Lee Lewis. Could be an Early Influence candidate.

    Nina Simone: The High Priestess of Soul. Not just highly influential musically, but a key musical figure in the Civil Rights movement by telling it how it is. She didn’t give a *&%^, and it doesn’t get more rock & roll than that. Many artists cite her as an influence, including John Legend, Aretha Franklin, Janis Joplin, Sade, Alicia Keys, Elton John, Mary J. Blige… the list goes on and on. Even John Lennon has cited her as an influence on at least one occasion.

    Big Mama Thornton: Incalculable influence on rock, blues, and soul. Just ask Elvis. And Janis.

    Sister Rosetta Tharpe: As Early Influence, but it’s still mind-boggling that they haven’t included her. Rock & roll likely flat-out wouldn’t exist with out her – at least not the way that we know it. From Chuck Berry to Little Richard to Aretha Franklin to Tina Turner to Meat Loaf – her influence spreads far and wide.

    Also, props for including John Mayall. He’s an extremely influential figure that many overlook. Past Bluesbreakers also include Mick Fleetwood, Paul Butterfield, and Harvey Mandel.

    Reply this comment
    • Jeff Tamarkin
      Jeff Tamarkin 16 October, 2016, 20:14

      Some great names there! I’d love to see Nina Simone, especially, get that recognition but I’m not sure she means a lot to the rock crowd. Sister Rosetta, whew! She seriously needs to be in. As far as Mayall, Butterfield was never a part of the Bluesbreakers but you’re right about Fleetwood (AND John McVie) and Mandel.

      Reply this comment
    • Mike L
      Mike L 10 March, 2017, 22:50

      Seriously agree with Sister Rosetta Tharpe..there was no one like her and she held her own alongside Muddy Waters and many other blues greats. Hope ya caught the tribute they did to her last summer at Arts at Brookfield. It was awesome. Luther Dickinson, John Medeski, AJ Ghent, Alvin Youngblood Hart, Valerie June and a host of others had the place rockin for free in downtown Manhattan.

      Reply this comment
    • horned norseman
      horned norseman 3 April, 2017, 22:12

      great list!! for j.j. cale alone!!but i sit in total disbelief that rory gallagher is not mentioned anywhere in this article or by any of the commenters??? c’MONNN… 🙂

      Reply this comment
    • Gilda Girl
      Gilda Girl 17 January, 2020, 15:14

      I agree with your list, especially JJ Cale and John Mayall. What a crime they aren’t in and yet Madonna and many more are. But Sister Rosetta Tharpe is in now. I believe it was last year, she went in.

      Reply this comment
    • Rollbert
      Rollbert 3 February, 2023, 08:25

      This list would make a great new Hall of Rock forget about the other one. Great video of the Dolls on Personality

      Reply this comment
  5. the oracle
    #5 the oracle 16 October, 2016, 18:12

    Suzi Quatro – the FIRST female rocker to break through internationally. Sold 45 million records worldwide – arguably the most influential female musician of the 70’s…. and nary a mention. The ‘expert’ writer must have had a brain fart when compiling this one.

    Reply this comment
  6. geoff
    #6 geoff 16 October, 2016, 18:34

    Little Feat has continued to evolve as a band, continuing to this day, long after the passing of the amazing Lowell George. They are the best!

    Reply this comment
  7. Cj
    #7 Cj 16 October, 2016, 19:24

    REO Speedwagon. Their earlier song were alot more hard and edgier. Then they went main stream and invented the Power Ballad and Arena Rock. With the death of Gary Richrath last year who wrote many of their hits. They, after almost 50 years, still bring it.

    Reply this comment
    • Chris
      Chris 11 July, 2020, 22:06

      I agree this band definitely had an influence on rock music. They always say that is a prerequisite so they should qualify. Plus they had multi platinum and gold records not to mention one certified “Diamond” – Hi Infidelity was the number one album of 1980

      Reply this comment
  8. anon
    #8 anon 16 October, 2016, 20:37

    the monkees need to be in as an early boy band

    Reply this comment
    • Guy Smiley
      Guy Smiley 17 October, 2016, 22:05

      That’s not a reason they need to be in. The Monkees need to be in the Hall because the music was (mostly) great, and were a lot more than just their hit singles (check out the Headquarters album, as well as Pisces, Aquarius, Capricorn & Jones Ltd, and – best of all – the Head soundtrack). Not to mention being music video pioneers, of course.

      Also, the “didn’t play their instruments” thing is a lie. It’s true they weren’t allowed to at first, but they later did, and always did on tour. Hell, Micky Dolenz played the first Moog synthesizer to appear on a pop/rock album!

      Most of all, their music has endured. 50 years later, we’re still talking about The Monkees, people are still coming out to see them (in whatever combinations) on tour, and they delivered one of 2016’s best albums with the wonderful “Good Times!”

      Reply this comment
      • Jeff Tamarkin
        Jeff Tamarkin 17 October, 2016, 22:11

        Good Times is one of the best albums of this year. Unlike some of the other artists who’ve been inducted, the Monkees continue to make exciting new music.

        Reply this comment
        • Guy Smiley
          Guy Smiley 18 October, 2016, 20:11

          Indeed! And it should be noted that, along with Nesmith’s excellent compositions (and a handful of strong Dolenz and Tork originals) all the other great writers who wrote songs for The Monkees. Carole King and Neil Diamond are in… But how about Harry Nilsson? He should be in too.

          And, given the acclaim Good Times! got, I really thought this would be the year. Apparently their influencing the likes of Andy Partridge, Ben Gibbard, Noel Gallagher, etc., didn’t matter? How about Tom Petty, Elvis Costello, and Michael Stipe then? They’re all on record as being fans (Peter Buck too, apparently!).

          Reply this comment
          • Timflyte
            Timflyte 4 September, 2020, 06:05

            David Marks & Bruce Johnston along w Ricky Fatarr & Blondie Chaplin need to be added to The Beach Boys. If the Eagles can have guys in that were not the original 4 , then so should the Beach Boys.
            David Marks played on the first 4 albums …Bruce not only has written songs for them since joining in April ’65 but also produced them in 1980. He also produced other acts as a Columbia Record producer .
            Ricky & Blondie were on 3 albums with them in the early 70s .
            One other name , as a Producer Terry Melcher should be in there for producing The Byrds albums & Paul Revere & the Raiders. Great article.

  9. Tony
    #9 Tony 16 October, 2016, 22:55

    Patti LaBelle & The Bluebelles/Labelle

    These women have made music since 1962. Collectively and individually, Patti LaBelle, Nona Hendryx and Sarah Dash have made amazing music for over 50 years mixing R&B/rock/gospel/dance/avant garde. They made a big impact in the 70’s, and are more than “Lady Marmalade”. They have been very overlooked, and have as yet never even been nominated.

    Reply this comment
  10. Patrick
    #10 Patrick 16 October, 2016, 23:23

    Good read! I agree with about 90% of the names. Where was Styx, Scorpions, Foghat, Boston, Def Leppard, Motorhead, Dire Straits, REO Speedwagon, Toto, Wishbone Ash, Iron Maiden, Kansas?! They also need some love!

    Reply this comment
  11. Patrick
    #11 Patrick 16 October, 2016, 23:31

    Good read! I agree with about 90% of the names. Where was Styx, Scorpions, Foghat, Boston, Def Leppard, Motorhead, Dire Straits, REO Speedwagon, Toto, Iron Maiden, Supertramp, Kansas?!

    Reply this comment
    • tom
      tom 17 October, 2016, 10:34

      Amen..all staples of a.m. radio growing up in 70’s with hit after hit.

      Reply this comment
  12. TODD TAMANEND CLARK
    #12 TODD TAMANEND CLARK 16 October, 2016, 23:33

    More psychedelia and proto-electronica please — IRON BUTTERFLY, LOTHAR AND THE HAND PEOPLE, SILVER APPLES, THE AMBOY DUKES, THE BLUES MAGOOS, THE ELECTRIC PRUNES, THE FUGS, THE MUSIC MACHINE, THE RED KRAYOLA, THE SEEDS, THE STRAWBERRY ALARM CLOCK, THE THIRTEENTH FLOOR ELEVATORS, THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, VANILLA FUDGE…

    Reply this comment
  13. Rev
    #13 Rev 17 October, 2016, 02:58

    And what about Connie Francis??? It’s just an atrocity that she has not been inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame! She was the first & innovator who paved the way for all subsequent female pop/rock singers, also accomplished recording her songs in numerous languages.

    Reply this comment
  14. Simon
    #14 Simon 17 October, 2016, 05:17

    Rory Gallagher and Steve Morse are a couple more guitarists who should be in this list.

    Reply this comment
  15. Blues Specialist
    #15 Blues Specialist 17 October, 2016, 06:38

    What about Marshall Tucker Band? They created unbelievable music with classics such as Cant You See, Heard it in a Love Song, Fire on the Mountain, Searching for a Rainbow and many others. And the only other band besides Jethro Full to rock the flute! Awesome blend of rock, country, jazz and jam band.

    Reply this comment
  16. Alan Roach
    #16 Alan Roach 17 October, 2016, 08:44

    Excellent list. One group that hasn’t been given the recognition and respect that they absolutely deserve is The Osmonds. Over 100 Million records sold, Multiple Peoples Choice Awards, sold out arenas and still touring after 55 years in the biz, The Osmonds have earned a legit spot in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

    Reply this comment
    • Jim
      Jim 20 January, 2020, 07:36

      …..yeah, wouldn’t have necessarily AGREED with your assessment – until I heard “Crazy Horses” – just a shockingly SICK piece of guitar playing…..

      Reply this comment
    • Georgia Girl
      Georgia Girl 18 May, 2023, 00:03

      Amen on the Osmonds. All very talented musicians. They wrote many (most) of their songs and were popular around the world, even singing in different languages. Great ambassadors and they overcame many tragedies in their lives.What are they waiting for, them to start dying off?

      Reply this comment
  17. dan
    #17 dan 17 October, 2016, 09:40

    I believe a compelling case for “Fugazi” can be made. They are incredibly influential and were the conscience of many bands (see eddie vedder for instance). It would also be funny to give such a crass and commercial award to them.

    Reply this comment
  18. tom
    #18 tom 17 October, 2016, 10:40

    Very very pleased to see this common sense list of deserving rockers and others from 60’s to 70’s. So much talent, style plus substance. Forget about who is trendy now, Hall inductions should be based on merit and achievement and influence, not just popularity. Nothing wrong with mainstream top 40 rockers going in over fringe groups who brought something new to the table. Great list..very happy you posted this!

    Reply this comment
    • Jack
      Jack 1 August, 2017, 01:07

      Tom, I agree 100%. Unfortunately, The Hall has made a very dangerous turn onto the road of “Hype”, instead of staying on the “Quality, Talent Ave.”. I think sometimes the go with names that will bring in customers to the Hall. There are definitely some glaring omissions.

      Reply this comment
    • wenceslas51
      wenceslas51 23 December, 2020, 07:05

      Is Joe Cocker’s inclusion being held back because of Belushi’s impressions of him?

      Reply this comment
  19. scott
    #19 scott 17 October, 2016, 12:18

    Joe Jackson is a significant omission.

    Reply this comment
  20. Music major
    #20 Music major 17 October, 2016, 12:46

    It’s the ROCK AND ROLL HALL OF FAME!!!!!! Get it?????

    Reply this comment
  21. Joeybombstyle
    #21 Joeybombstyle 17 October, 2016, 13:19

    I’ve given up on the whole Rock and Roll Hall of fame thing it is the Rolling Stone Hall of Fame that being said that actually widens the scope with out having to listen to people balk everytime a “they’re not rock” artist goes in. It’s still fun and should still be seen as a cool accompliment. I agree with everyone you have up there but the ones that I see as a total crime are Thin Lizzy The Damned Billy Preston Crystals Dick Dale Judas Priest Ben E King The Shangri Las and the band that I feel should sit with the big 2 of their time period The Zomies if it was not for bad luck etc they would have been one of the biggest bands in the world.

    Reply this comment
  22. Dan
    #22 Dan 17 October, 2016, 14:13

    Randy Bachman, the guess who and bto were#1… this guy being left out is poor.

    Reply this comment
  23. MikeMac
    #23 MikeMac 17 October, 2016, 15:00

    HOW COULD YOU NOT LIST NRBQ????

    Reply this comment
    • Jeff Tamarkin
      Jeff Tamarkin 17 October, 2016, 20:02

      Hey MikeMac, NRBQ is my favorite live band of all time! I probably saw them 25 or more times. But I had to be realistic and acknowledge that there is no way they are going to get nominated by the Hall of Fame. I wish things were different because they certainly deserve it, but it’s just not going to happen. And if it ever does, I’ll be happy to be proven wrong!

      Reply this comment
  24. garjen
    #24 garjen 17 October, 2016, 16:12

    I would also recommend for this list Pete Townshend (solo) here are his Top 100 solo songs http://supergroup.netfirms.com/index7.htm

    Reply this comment
  25. Rich P
    #25 Rich P 17 October, 2016, 16:39

    Hard to believe you left Neil Sedaka and Connie Francis off your list. They dominated the male and female charts from 58 through the entry of the Beatle in ’64. Plus Sedaka’s comeback in ’75 featured three No. 1s.

    Reply this comment
  26. TJ
    #26 TJ 17 October, 2016, 17:56

    I have always subscribed to the notion that the RRHOF consists of two parts – “Rock & Roll” and “hall of FAME”. You MUST rock and you MUST be famous! This is not supposed to be the “Hall of Pretty Good”.Using that criteria, go through the list and only make note of those artists listed who “ROCK” and are “FAMOUS”. Of course, if you use that criteria retroactively, Wenner would have to remove 3/4 of the folk, jazz, pop, doo wop, country and other “NON ROCK” people currently members. It’s really a joke trying to button-hole one genre anyway in this field. As long as Paul Revere & the Raiders and the Guess Who are outside looking in, the whole debate is a joke.

    Reply this comment
  27. Patti
    #27 Patti 17 October, 2016, 19:43

    Three Dog Night For absolutely sure!

    Reply this comment
  28. Hapster
    #28 Hapster 17 October, 2016, 22:47

    What about Bryan Adams? Summer of 69, Cuts Like a Knife, Run to You are rock classics. So he wrote a few cheesy love songs…so did Rod Stewart and Elton John and they’re in!

    Reply this comment
    • Greg Brodsky
      Greg Brodsky 18 October, 2016, 00:48

      Thanks for your comment. As the article states: “All of our picks made their debut recording earlier than 1980.”

      Reply this comment
  29. Billy.
    #29 Billy. 18 October, 2016, 03:03

    ELO, Moody Blues, Thin Lizzy, Bad Company “I caught their show Fri night” unbelievable!!!!, Bad Finger….all truly deserving a place at this table years ago, never mind now. The Carpenters?!!!!!!! Karen, probably the most beautiful voice of all time…..But Rock N Roll?!!! WTF?

    Reply this comment
  30. Cyberdale
    #30 Cyberdale 18 October, 2016, 09:23

    ELO would not have existed without The Move. Roy Wood’s guitar and songwriting chops made the band, Carl Wayne is one of rock’s great forgotten vocalists and when Jeff Lynne joined they had a real two-headed monster.

    Reply this comment
    • Jim
      Jim 20 January, 2020, 07:39

      …..indeed; just a TERRIBLY-underrated, HIGHLY influential combo……

      Reply this comment
  31. Rob
    #31 Rob 18 October, 2016, 10:16

    Darlene Love is and was great but she was never in The Crystals

    Reply this comment
    • Jeff Tamarkin
      Jeff Tamarkin 18 October, 2016, 13:52

      Technically you are correct but Spector used her as lead vocalist on Crystals hits such as “He’s a Rebel” and “He’s Sure the Boy I Love.”

      Reply this comment
  32. Terry
    #32 Terry 18 October, 2016, 14:46

    BIG STAR!

    Reply this comment
  33. Ridi James
    #33 Ridi James 18 October, 2016, 18:06

    Even here, on the list of omitted rock band, you’ve omitted America, who wrote, sang and even produced some of the most enduring hits in American music. Man, Rodney Dangerfield was never treated like this.

    Reply this comment
  34. PeterM
    #34 PeterM 18 October, 2016, 19:51

    America and Toto…how many Hall of Famers’ records gave the Toto guys played with? Give me a break!

    Reply this comment
  35. Guy Smiley
    #35 Guy Smiley 18 October, 2016, 20:04

    Hard to believe Heart got in before Benatar. Then again, as this article points out, the Shangri-las haven’t made it in either. Total shame.

    Reply this comment
  36. Thefen
    #36 Thefen 19 October, 2016, 08:28

    If Cat Stevens can be inducted as he was 2 years ago, so should Gordon Lightfoot and Harry Chapin! Both for their bodies of music, plus Harry Chapins’ philanthropic predates Live-Aid!

    Reply this comment
    • Tom From Pgh
      Tom From Pgh 20 March, 2017, 22:57

      Here’s the problem with the whole process, I respect Gordon Lightfoot’s work & am a huge Harry Chapin fan, but Im not sure they are R&RHOF worthy. However, when you induct James Taylor & Cat Stevens how do you then ignore the other two ? Chapin was a prolific performer, writing a Broadway play, composing all the music for his brother’s TV show, composed scores for multiple TV movies, while recording 9 albums in 10 years around over 2,000 live concerts & countless TV appearances. “Cat’s In The Cradle” is a cultural touchstone even 40 years later, “Taxi” was one of the most requested songs of the decade in the 70s, he had 7 albums that were just under or over the Gold Record Sales Threshold, yet not Im not convinced he’s “rock” – although if you are inducting Cat Stevens, then how do you explain not even considering Lightfoot & Chapin ?

      Reply this comment
      • Jeff Tamarkin
        Jeff Tamarkin 21 March, 2017, 09:29

        I totally agree. The process makes no sense at all.

        Reply this comment
      • Bob
        Bob 12 July, 2022, 22:27

        I saw Gordon Lightfoot twice at Gammage Auditorium at Arizona State University back in the 1980s. In both performances he and his band perfomed every song as good as his original recorded versions. That is pretty rare. The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald put the audience right there. Incredible! The man is a song writing genius and has a great voice as well. He deserves to be in the R&R Hall of Fame for sure.

        Reply this comment
  37. BillH
    #37 BillH 21 October, 2016, 09:46

    How about King Crimson, Renaissance, Foreigner, Free, B-52’s, Clannad, The Crusaders, Gentle Giant, Jean-Luc Ponty, Lou Gramm, Stuff and Supertramp.

    Reply this comment
    • Anmarpugs
      Anmarpugs 14 December, 2017, 23:01

      Yes I a huge Foreigner fan they were huge in the 70’s and 80’s, made such an impact. With Lou Gramm as a frontman they were totally hot, what about Foreigner?

      Reply this comment
  38. Carole
    #38 Carole 29 November, 2016, 20:57

    I can’t believe that Neil Sedaka and Connie Francis were even overlooked on this list of overlooked RRHOF candidates!

    Sedaka’s songwriting credits alone qualify him before the addition of his early pop idol/vocalist status. Connie Francis churned out a ton of hits and was arguably pop-rock’s first big female star.

    Shame on the RRHOF for missing these two key artists.

    Reply this comment
  39. stephen cabral
    #39 stephen cabral 23 December, 2016, 10:46

    Really? No J. Geils Band?

    Reply this comment
    • Greg Brodsky
      Greg Brodsky 23 December, 2016, 11:57

      They’re on there in between Peter Frampton and Lesley Gore.

      Reply this comment
    • Bluzrider
      Bluzrider 23 September, 2020, 07:25

      I can relate to the fact that no j. Geils Band in the hall is almost a criminal act. These people who have control over who gets in and who doesn’t need to be replaced, they don’t have a clue of what Rock and Roll is, The j. Geils Band rocked like no ones business, They were all great musicians, and Peter Wolf was one of the greatest front men in the business. Their live shows were legendary.

      Reply this comment
  40. frankj
    #40 frankj 28 December, 2016, 11:42

    Great list, agree with all your selections but should add Nick Drake.

    Reply this comment
  41. Jackieblue22 in CT
    #41 Jackieblue22 in CT 14 January, 2017, 21:26

    Great list! …and bless you for including the Moody Blues!

    Reply this comment
  42. Gary
    #42 Gary 15 January, 2017, 09:54

    Wow. No Marshall Tucker Band mention. Sad.

    Reply this comment
  43. itln4fox
    #43 itln4fox 6 February, 2017, 12:33

    Burt Bacharach should be in. Two artists owe their induction solely to him–Gene Pitney and Dusty Springfield. How much more influential could you be?

    Reply this comment
  44. Dave
    #44 Dave 5 March, 2017, 07:05

    Comment text.. The Hollies another great band and many singles.

    Reply this comment
  45. Mike Lenowsky
    #45 Mike Lenowsky 10 March, 2017, 23:13

    Great lists..1 and 2..
    Plus a bunch of other mentions by the commenters. Hard to believe so many greats aren’t in though Pearl Jam is. I don’t think any 90s bands should be let in until so many of these wrongs are righted! And thank you for mentioning Phish..truly the best big live band out there doing like The Dead did it..changing nightly..no two shows the same..but very different from The Dead who I’m an even bigger fan of. It personally sickens me that The Meters were up for induction the last handful of years but didn’t get in. They’re pretty much the only band I’d wanna see more than The Dead..in any formation..and they’re still kicking ass..mostly as The Funky Meters..but still..they were the backing band on Lady Marmalade and were loved by Paul McCartney, The Stones and influenced a generation of funk, rock and jambands. As well as George Porter jr. Is hands down the best bass player alive..in my humble opinion!

    Reply this comment
  46. Billy K.
    #46 Billy K. 3 April, 2017, 17:46

    Lots of good choices for sure, and most that I agree with…….

    But some overlooked people…..
    Tower of Power…..R&B artists in their own right….but played on many rock sessions.

    Alexis Korner—not a household name in America, but his nightclub spawned a bunch of well-known bands.

    Petula Clark—some people have their reasons about Connie Francis, Lesley Gore, Dusty Springfield….but I believe that Petula has just a strong a case.

    New Order—innovators in techno.

    And various non-performers who have contributed much(behind the scenes) to Rock and Roll: Jack Douglas, Joe Meek, Bob Ezrin, Ted Templeman, Irving Azoff.

    Can journalists get inducted? Strong case for the late Cub Coda.

    Reply this comment
    • Jeff Tamarkin
      Jeff Tamarkin 3 April, 2017, 18:04

      Great choices. Petula Clark is noted in the second part of our list (there’s a link near the bottom of part one). Tower of Power and Alexis Korner are deserving for sure. And, as mentioned earlier, it’s absurd that Al Kooper is not in.

      New Order? Maybe at some point–hard to say. Maybe Joy Division before them though?

      The Hall is very random on the non-performers. All of the people you mentioned are important and there are dozens more. Mostly, the Hall’s leaders have inducted themselves, not too many other industry people.

      Journalists can and should get inducted. Cub Koda was a good friend and colleague but I doubt he’ll ever get in. They’re kore likely to put in someone like Lester Bangs or, again, some of the people who are on the nominating committee.

      Reply this comment
      • RoundHouse
        RoundHouse 6 May, 2023, 17:24

        If Joy Division should be nominated at one point, than Bauhaus ( Peter Murphy, Daniel Ash, & David J ) should be nominated as the frontline innovators of that important genre of musical movement and style !

        Reply this comment
  47. DJTom
    #47 DJTom 4 April, 2017, 21:00

    I’ll tell you one nobody has mentioned, been together since 1961, still rocking to This Day! 26 studio albums, 12 live albums, several compilations. Sold millions of albums. They have evolved through the years, yet remained true to their roots as a kick ass live act. I nominate Golden Earring and why they aren’t in shows what little “critics” know about music.

    Reply this comment
  48. Sabu
    #48 Sabu 29 April, 2017, 01:35

    Johnny Maestro /Crests/Brooklyn Bridge. The Belmonts

    Reply this comment
  49. BIWJ
    #49 BIWJ 30 April, 2017, 18:10

    Great list, Jeff. Especially glad to see you mention Badfinger, Peter Frampton, Tommy James & The Shondells, Poco. All beyond worthy.

    Reply this comment
  50. Stbarts
    #50 Stbarts 25 June, 2017, 22:07

    Quite an impressive list . But you forgot David Cassidy . He had a bigger following and concerts than Elvis and The Beatles in the early 70’s . Biggest fan club ever . Yes he was handsome but a great artist and actor as well . He needs to be on the list

    Reply this comment
  51. Willem
    #51 Willem 27 June, 2017, 16:48

    Thanks for the great list! That Little Feat and Los Lobos are not in is criminal. Not to mention that we need more “L” bands in the Hall!

    Reply this comment
  52. micky
    #52 micky 27 June, 2017, 18:03

    reading your list , i think i like more bands not in the hall of fame than are included ! obviously , i have different criteria , so i’ll leave it at that . one thing though , i’d go for the nice before elp .

    Reply this comment
  53. GnLguy
    #53 GnLguy 17 August, 2017, 16:25

    You gotta be kidding me!!!! After all of the great music that Kim Simmonds and Savoy has churned out over the years and Kim being one of the greatest blues rock guitarist alive – they aren’t mentioned in this list????
    And I look further – and Robin Trower isn’t on this list either????

    How is one to take this article serious when you omit such musician’s as these??

    Reply this comment
  54. Jack
    #54 Jack 21 August, 2017, 05:32

    The line-up of those not inducted into the Hall, for the most part, is better than the list of acts that have been inducted.

    Reply this comment
  55. Fredbob
    #55 Fredbob 2 October, 2017, 18:01

    How about spirit. The guys could play all styles of music easily and were all top notch musicians. Their first four albums wete all classics.

    Reply this comment
  56. Dan
    #56 Dan 3 October, 2017, 04:42

    Chubby Checker, I would have thought, would have been in the first group of inductees. His list of hits dominated the charts in the 60s. He created the whole dance music genre! Every wedding DJ has the Twist on their playlist. And the Limbo, Pony, and Hucklebuck- what does the Hall have against him?

    Reply this comment
  57. Guidopm7
    #57 Guidopm7 9 October, 2017, 16:53

    America, Karla Bonoff, Boston, Foreigner, Frampton, Toto, Zevon…these were the 70’s!

    Reply this comment
    • Jeff Tamarkin
      Jeff Tamarkin 9 October, 2017, 17:50

      Make sure you look at part two–some of those names are included!

      Reply this comment
    • Creative Politics
      Creative Politics 30 March, 2019, 02:51

      Good for you on America. What kind of elitist snobbery includes a band like Traffic, which, sorry, is not famous at all (I know them, but I’m not a typical fan) while ignoring a popular favorite like America that will still be being played decades after the last person who remembers Traffic is dead (just like we still read that vulgar novelist Dickens) And if America is somehow too lightweight, that can’t be said of Supertramp, which no one seems to have mentioned yet.

      Reply this comment
  58. Dan
    #58 Dan 14 December, 2017, 01:33

    I can make an argument that Chubby Checker belonged in with the first class! He basically invented the whole dance music genre. The Twist, Limbo ,Pony, and so many other hits, most of which you’ll still hear being played today! My nephew, who is in the music business, says the industry has some sort of grudge against Chubby for reasons unknown.

    Reply this comment
  59. John Rose
    #59 John Rose 14 December, 2017, 07:33

    Styx may never make the RRHOF — or even some people’s snub list — but they’re in my Hall of Fame and in the end that’s all that matters to me. Glad to see the Moodies finally got the nod, and The Cars as a bonus!

    Reply this comment
  60. fogman
    #60 fogman 14 December, 2017, 12:18

    Foghat and Eddie Money also deserve to be inducted

    Reply this comment
  61. Tom
    #61 Tom 14 December, 2017, 12:30

    So many glaring omissions by the RRHOF. Has anyone mentioned Delaney & Bonnie in this thread yet? Certainly they are worthy of induction.

    Reply this comment
  62. John
    #62 John 14 December, 2017, 14:34

    Great list but how can you forget Nick Drake????

    Reply this comment
  63. Peter
    #63 Peter 14 December, 2017, 15:19

    Ten Years After/ Alvin Lee, a monster of a band! No Savoy Brown?

    Reply this comment
  64. Jack
    #64 Jack 14 December, 2017, 16:23

    One of the biggest omissions is Dan Fogelberg. He deserves it on so many levels. He, along with Eagles, Jackson Brown, Linda Ronstadt, and others, were the founding musicians in the “California, West Coast” sound. If you want to look at sales, he’s around the 45 million mark, with multiple platinum and gold albums. However, IMO it’s when you look at his sheer talent alone, he should be in. Fogelberg was a multi-instrumentalist. He was a way better than average guitar player, keyboardist, bass player, in fact, on several of his albums he played all the instruments, something very few people can say. He, like most of the solo artists wrote a few cheesy songs, but when you look at his albums like Nether Lands, Twin Sons of Different Mothers, The Innocent Age, Captured Angel, Souvenirs, it’s hard to say he wasn’t a major source for the soundtrack of the 70s.

    Reply this comment
    • Jim
      Jim 20 January, 2020, 07:45

      …..in my estimation, better than Browne on EVERY level – and YET, Jackson was inducted YEARS ago now…..

      Reply this comment
    • lucysdad
      lucysdad 22 September, 2020, 00:34

      I agree with every word you said. Love Fogelberg. Also put on great live shows. Maybe he was so good at so many things that he has been overlooked?

      Reply this comment
  65. Marte Welch
    #65 Marte Welch 16 December, 2017, 18:20

    The two name that been omitted on the list are Dan Fogelberg and Neil Sedaka. I wonder what is the protocol is to be nominated to the RRHF anywhay.

    Reply this comment
  66. curtisross461
    #66 curtisross461 6 January, 2018, 06:05

    Can’t argue with any of these and probably could think of 100 more but boggles my mind that Slim Harpo and Arthur Alexander – performers and writers whose songs were covered by the Beatles, Stones, the Who (“I’m the Face” is a barely rewritten “Got Love If You Want It”), Dusty Springfield and more aren’t in. Tony Joe White and Joe South are two more deserving figures. How about Slade and the Sweet? The Standells?

    Reply this comment
  67. RedRoc
    #67 RedRoc 6 January, 2018, 13:08

    Please explain how it is that non-rockers are in the RRHOF and great Classic Rockers like Guess Who, Bachman-Turner Overdrive, Blue Oyster Cult, Grand Funk Railroad aren’t in!!??

    Reply this comment
  68. JMS
    #68 JMS 25 March, 2018, 18:29

    Steve Winwood – absolutely!
    But one band deserves it more than all the others from your “omissions” list is SQUEEZE!

    Reply this comment
  69. Kool H.
    #69 Kool H. 17 April, 2018, 09:09

    John Bon f’ing Jovi? Are you kidding me? Should be re-named Hall Of Shame until they get serious and induct most of the bands and individuals you mentioned in the article. H.

    Reply this comment
  70. Rj
    #70 Rj 1 August, 2018, 20:37

    Nina Simone? Why not Odetta or Cisco Huston. Those characters are influential for sure but are not rock musicians.

    Reply this comment
  71. Luigi
    #71 Luigi 3 September, 2018, 02:03

    Should’ve added Toto, Meat Loaf/Jim Steinman, Joy Division, The Commodores, Motörhead, Toots & the Maytals, Styx, John Prine, XTC, The Crazy World of Arthur Brown, Black Flag, and the Misfits should also be on this list!!!

    Reply this comment
  72. The DOCTOR
    #72 The DOCTOR 3 September, 2018, 09:45

    The so-called Rock Hall is a JOKE!!! Donna Summer and other disco acts were not Rock n Rollers??? It’s Jann Wenner’s playlist … if not one of his favorites … forget it!!

    Reply this comment
  73. Roy
    #73 Roy 3 September, 2018, 13:13

    You left out The Spencer Davis Group, Styx, The Commodores, Kool & The Gang, and The Kingston Trio.

    Reply this comment
  74. Chowder
    #74 Chowder 21 September, 2018, 11:01

    It is beyond my comprehension why nobody ever includes David Cassidy in these lists. David was the number one solo artist of the early 70s. His fan club was larger than Elvis and the Beattles combined! He would sell out stadiums of 60K which was unheard of back in the day. David wasn’t just the fluff TV star of the Partridge Family. He was a very accomplished Musician, Songwriter and Composer. Several of the songs he personally wrote were more on the rock side than the fluff pop songs he was forced to record in the early days. The three RCA albums in the mid 70s were some of his best work. His self titled album in 1989 as well as the follow up, Didn’t You Used To Be are very good as well. It is time David is recognized as more than Keith Partridge!

    Reply this comment
  75. smflarry
    #75 smflarry 10 October, 2018, 14:39

    It’s outrageous and INSANE that this list of omissions contains so many artists and groups who’ve been overlooked or shunned. Too bad the R&R HofF isn’t governed by the record industry itself, or by Billboard. I’ve always heard it was basically a private, snotty organization that votes strictly on their own whims. SAD!

    Reply this comment
  76. Tony
    #76 Tony 20 October, 2018, 21:28

    Joe Cocker may very well be the best classic rock voice of them all. He deserves induction. His resume speaks for itself. 45 years as a recording artist, hit records in every decade since Woodstock. It’s a shame he wasn’t inducted while he was alive.

    Reply this comment
  77. Alan in Portlandia
    #77 Alan in Portlandia 13 December, 2018, 23:18

    All you have to see any of the videos on youtube of Mott The Hoople playing Keep a Knocking to realize why the Clash, Queen, and David Bowie thought they were the greatest live band ever.

    Reply this comment
  78. DM
    #78 DM 14 December, 2018, 01:02

    A lot of great, influential soul groups are missing… The Chi-Lites, Dramatics, Delfonics & Emotions all come to mind… Especially the Chi-Lites who had numerous hit singles that are still sampled & played today

    Reply this comment
  79. Bluzrider
    #79 Bluzrider 14 December, 2018, 07:42

    Great List,

    “One factor we considered in particular is whether they were important in their own time”

    Ask any guy who went to Nam if Grand funk Railroad was important to them.

    Reply this comment
  80. gerardylan
    #80 gerardylan 14 December, 2018, 12:31

    Nick Cave, Joy Division, The Smiths, Echo & The Bunnymen.

    Did anyone even listen in the eighties?

    Reply this comment
  81. THE DOCTOR
    #81 THE DOCTOR 14 December, 2018, 13:06

    JANET JACKSON????? NOT ROCK n ROLL!!!!

    Reply this comment
  82. Hal
    #82 Hal 14 December, 2018, 14:36

    The very existence of a rock and roll hall of fame is the travesty. Rock and roll was never something anyone would want to quantify like a sport or the movie industry.

    Reply this comment
  83. Scott W. O'Brien
    #83 Scott W. O'Brien 14 December, 2018, 17:08

    No Todd Rundgren ? !!!!!! WTF ? !!! He is rock and roll !!!!!

    Reply this comment
  84. Lucypetunia
    #84 Lucypetunia 14 December, 2018, 22:42

    Many of these would be no-brainer inductees to a Pop Music HOF. As for past omissions from the RRHOF, hard to believe Harry Nilsson & Todd Rundgren haven’t gotten “the nod,” although I don’t think either gives a damn (or in Nilsson’s case gave a damn). And that’s a good thing …

    Reply this comment
  85. MikeAB
    #85 MikeAB 15 December, 2018, 00:20

    There are A LOT of acts i agree with. Especially Los Lob and J Geils.
    One omission, and i don’t know how you would get them, either individual or as a band. Talking about Rockpile. We know that because of their contracts, Nick Lowe and Dave Edmunds has to release solo albums, but essentially THEY were Rockpile. Even Elvis Costello said during his acceptance speech, the would be no Elvis w/o Nick Lowe.

    Reply this comment
  86. guitarman
    #86 guitarman 16 December, 2018, 06:39

    More guitar bands! Sonic Youth should have already been inducted ten years ago. Pixies, Dinosaur Jr., Husker Du and Buffalo Tom deserve it too.

    Reply this comment
  87. roaddan
    #87 roaddan 16 December, 2018, 12:11

    JJ Cale, Otis Spann, Al Kooper, Mike Bloomfield, Taj Mahal, Arlo Guthrie, Buffy St. Marie, Jesse Ed Davis, Max Yasgur, William “Bill” Ferris

    Reply this comment
  88. Luigi_2121
    #88 Luigi_2121 16 December, 2018, 12:57

    You forgot to add The Commodores. Tons of classic R&B hits like “Easy”, “Sail On”, “Brick House”, and “Three Times A Lady”.

    I’d also consider nodding Peter Tosh, Willie Nelson, Dolly Parton, John Prine, Meat Loaf, Joy Division, and Toto.

    Reply this comment
  89. guitarbob63
    #89 guitarbob63 17 December, 2018, 18:10

    The only omissions from my list were STYX…..Kansas, Joe Walsh and Ozzy (solo careers) other then that this writer is spot on

    Reply this comment
  90. DC
    #90 DC 19 December, 2018, 16:50

    Any list that lists artists overlooked by the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame that doesn’t include Jimmy Buffett is flawed. He basically CREATED a new genre of music that has been copied by (among others) Zac Brown, Kenny Chesney, Alan Jackson and Toby Keith.

    Epic fail.

    Reply this comment
  91. Ready Roscoe
    #91 Ready Roscoe 29 December, 2018, 11:02

    This is the best snub list I’ve read. How longer can Thornton, Winter, Dale, Nelson, Fairport/ Thompson, Cooder, Guess Who, Turner, Coltrane, Bobby Keys be omitted?

    Reply this comment
  92. Jobi
    #92 Jobi 29 March, 2019, 03:33

    Wow, What a SAD List !…..Most of these Bands/Solo Artist SHOULD Already Be there !. But When You let Politics (Rolling Stone !) Pick who is inducted…Jus’ goes to show You, NOT is alright in this World !

    Reply this comment
  93. CORPORATE EXPLOITATION OF ROCK MUSIC
    #93 CORPORATE EXPLOITATION OF ROCK MUSIC 30 March, 2019, 01:12

    The Rock n Roll Hall of Fame is the corporate machine exploiting rock music. It’s everything RNR is against so the omission of all these great musicians is no surprise. They are run by political & socially pressured corporate suits dressed in ripped jeans & sandals. Don’t let them fool you, kiddies. The don’t know sheet about music or a one hit wonder from a very talented musician. Don’t be surprised when Miley Cyrus gets in before Todd Rundgren or the list of great musicians written above. The HOF is a phuckin’ joke so pay it no mind. I believe Jann Werner (Rolling Stone editor) is on the board and has a say in who gets in & he phucked up the magazine so why not the HOF. RS used to be a music magazine until they hired Hunter Thompson & the paper went down the drain & became a political rag. CORP. HOF EXPLOITING ROCK MUSIC

    Reply this comment
    • mickey
      mickey 12 February, 2021, 08:59

      I agree 100% HOF is a bout money and politics. I was born in 1951 and got to enjoy most of what we discuss and read about here. I remember when they Founded the HOF. After reading a bit about it it became obvious that it was mostly about money and welding power over others. I realized early on that I have no interest in what the HOF thinks or does. They might think that the heart of rock & roll is in Cleveland but it’s not. It’s in all of us. They are just a bunch of self-impressed, over paid, lackeys.

      Reply this comment
  94. There’s NO RULES in RnR
    #94 There’s NO RULES in RnR 30 March, 2019, 01:18

    The HOF has all these rules & regulations to get inducted in like the bands have to be together or around 25 years. LMFAO, the suits don’t know there’s no rules in Rock n Roll, man!

    Reply this comment
  95. HALL OF SHAME......
    #95 HALL OF SHAME...... 30 March, 2019, 01:47

    Hey, how about Living Colour, Kings X, Alive In Chains, Lenny Kravitz, Soundgarfen, Chris Cornell (the best voice ever), The Tubes, Todd Rundgren, Utopia, Squeeze, Dion & The Belmont’s, Thomas Dolby, Rockpile, The Fugs, The Move, Spooky Tooth, Nazareth, Stone Temple Pilots, Amboy Dukes, Killer Joe Piro, I could keep going for hours…..phuck the HOF!

    Reply this comment
  96. Bear
    #96 Bear 30 March, 2019, 14:51

    Even you have snubbed him, what about Roy Buchanan, arguably one of the top five great rock/blues guitar players.

    Reply this comment
  97. Jamey
    #97 Jamey 7 April, 2019, 11:29

    John Hiatt. The most underrated artist out there. Never even mentioned on the most-snubbbed list, yet he is one of the most talented songwriters and performers out there. The list of artists who have covered his songs and the genres they represent is simply mind blowing.

    Reply this comment
  98. FAIRNESS
    #98 FAIRNESS 9 May, 2019, 20:58

    Please, ANYONE who thinks Roxy Music should be in and Priest, Maiden, Nugent, Scorpions, Bad Co. Foreigner, MC5 & Thin Lizzy, just for starters, is insane.
    Among many others. But these 8 bands are bands that changed music, they are trend setters. These bands changed music and sold 10X the albums Roxy Music sold and most of them are still out selling Roxy Music today.
    The R&R HOF is a crock of crap and an embarrassment to true awesome music. I’m not a fan of several other bands not in but they should definitely be in ahead of Roxy. Not to mention the other embarrassments that are already in the HOF.
    Seriously, Maiden & Thin Lizzy not in the HOF, get serious!!!
    SHAME!!!! HO Shame could not be more political and shameful.
    What a crock!!

    Reply this comment
    • Jim
      Jim 20 January, 2020, 08:06

      …..while I do mostly agree with you about those artists listed, couldn’t DISagree MORE where Roxy is concerned – among THE most influential bands EVER (especially where the 80’s are concerned) and as for quality, I submit for your consideration a) “The Thrill Of It All” (from Country Life) Def Leppard’s MASSIVE rip at “Street Life” on their YEAH! covers album – here’s the link, “Same Old Scene” (featured in the movie ‘Times Square’, among others) and of course, “Love Is The Drug”…..https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2OLmXAGaAf4

      Reply this comment
  99. Rock&Roll
    #99 Rock&Roll 5 August, 2019, 21:40

    Slade – the greatest rock band that never made it big in America. Slade’s catalog of music would put most of the HOF inductees to shame. Not to mention being one of the best live bands ever to take the stage..

    There is a huge bias in the Hall of Fame against hard rock and heavy metal bands, and especially against British artists in general. It’s frustrating to look at the list of inductees and seeing so many mediocre acts, while many great bands are completely off the radar (Slade, The Sweet, Mott The Hoople, and “newer” artists like Oasis). Definitely a British bias, although I’m still trying to figure out why (American) Todd Rundgren has not been voted in. I can only assume Mr. Rundgren ran over a committee member’s dog or something like that, and has shown no remorse for his actions..

    Reply this comment
    • phil
      phil 22 September, 2020, 00:48

      See Jimmy Stewart’s ‘Flight of the Phoenix’. She sings the song “Senza Fine” on the radio ..

      Reply this comment
  100. Mark
    #100 Mark 5 September, 2019, 23:40

    Wishbone Ash pioneered dual lead guitars. They rarely got any airtime on the radio and got no mention hear. What a great band and still touring and making albums. Live Dates was an early signature album.

    Reply this comment
  101. Bonzo
    #101 Bonzo 13 September, 2019, 15:34

    Jethro Tull, Rory Gallagher, Roy Buchanan

    Reply this comment
  102. Milo
    #102 Milo 30 September, 2019, 17:47

    This is a .pretty good list and I agree with quite a bit of it. Three acts I usually look for that I rarely see on such lists are Nick Lowe, The Jam and The Boomtown Rats, I think all three had a good enough body of work to at least make a snub list.

    Reply this comment
  103. L.T,
    #103 L.T, 1 October, 2019, 15:24

    DOOBIE BROTHERS, PAT BENATAR are a MUST. Todd Rundgren shouldv’e been inducted last year as he was #3 in fan vote. They need to have FAN VOTE to weigh more heavily. I would like to see SAMMY HAGAR nominated with all his contributions to rock music. Yes, he is in with VH but come on Montrose, solo career, Waboritas, HSAS, The Circle. Still touring to sold out shows. Rock & Roll Road Trip AXS TV show, radio show of his fav. tunes, Birthday bash, and so much more. He wants Montrose inducted but all of us REDheads want him in some form.

    Reply this comment
  104. Big D
    #104 Big D 1 October, 2019, 16:26

    AMERICA!!! Really, really can’t believe they are not in the conversation???so sad!!!

    Reply this comment
  105. LaustCawz
    #105 LaustCawz 8 October, 2019, 12:51

    The more years that pass, the more the rrhof seems to (mostly) distance themselves from the true rock/rock ‘n’ roll innovators/talents/geniuses, while more & more embracing such mediocrity. For a long time, there’s been an ever-expanding definition of what constitutes “rock ‘n’ roll”. Hell, even when it was starting, the originators didn’t sound that much alike; but they did all (or most) embrace the same sort of style. Even artists as disparate as Chuck Berry & Jerry Lee Lewis were sharing the same kind of spirit. The music & overall style has always been important, but just as important has been the attitude, the rebel ideology, the willingness to take risks in what you stand for & what you say & do. Let’s not forget that rock ‘n’ roll initially was condemned by the establishment, by older people, by religious zealots who deemed it “the devil’s music”; then, a few years later, there were Christian rock bands!! Rock ‘n’ roll as we used to know it has splintered & fragmented into a million different tangents & directions, to the point where we can be uncertain what to even call some of it. About the closest thing anyone has come up with to describe where rock & pop have gone is the word “alternative”, which doesn’t really mean anything anymore. With the style off the music having become almost unrecognizable in current incarnations, perhaps the best thing to do is follow that rebellious spirit, the daring to do all that you’re inclined towards, even at the risk of being unpopular. Yes, rock & pop & whatever other modern music that counts towards this sort of legacy has been widely celebrated/had its day in the sun, with arena rock, for just one example. Many indelible songs have resulted & many of those who’ve created them remain unacknowledged by those who may have shrunken into their tastes, becoming oblivious to what they were unaware of. If I don’t already seem like I’ve been rambling on way too long, I have just a few additional things to point out for anyone who’s not already aware of them–

    https://www.cleveland.com/entertainment/2018/04/rock_and_roll_hall_of_fame_int.html

    If I remember correctly, the 2019 songs/singles inductees are: “Maybe”–The Chantels; “Money (That’s What I Want)”–Barrett Strong; “Twist & Shout”–The Isley Brothers; “Tequila”–The Champs; “Leader Of the Pack”–The Shangri-Las; “Gloria”–The Shadows Of Knight….

    If I were going to guess/predict what the singles might be for 2020?…Hmm…

    “Get A Job”–The Silhouettes
    “Harlem Nocturne”–The Viscounts
    “At the Hop”–Danny & the Juniors
    “Sh-Boom (Life Could Be A Dream)”–
    The Chords
    “My Boyfriend’s Back”–The Angels
    “TelStar”–The Tornados

    Regarding some of the names already mentioned by others–

    Many don’t realize that Karen Carpenter (in addition to her unforgettable voice) was also a hell of a drummer–https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sdHyzGXAJPg (1:55)

    The Final hint by the Association
    (from 1981!)–https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LAQBx9AkMDI

    I wonder if anyone posting on this site recognizes what I feel are some terribly egregious snubs (you can decide for yourselves whether or not they count as
    “rock ‘n’ roll”):

    Carla Bley (as Songwriter
    or Influence–early or otherwise)
    Tom Lehrer (as Early Influence)
    Suzanne Vega (1985 self-titled debut pre-dates anything by Tracy Chapman, Indigo Girls, etc.)
    Ween
    They Might Be Giants
    The Flaming Lips
    Garbage (newly eligible)
    Air (also newly eligible)
    The Pet Shop Boys (they didn’t just vanish after the ’80s)
    Bernie Taupin–lyricist for dozens of classic Elton John hits

    FTR, before The Go-Gos, before Benatar, before The Runaways, even before Quatro, there was…Fanny–https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fanny_(band)

    Also, for anyone who’s interested, most “feminist anthems” (including “Respect” & “Girls Just Want To Have Fun”) were written &, in some cases, originally performed by men.

    &…finally, I couldn’t agree more about such bands/artists as Harry Nilsson, Three Dog Night, Badfinger & The B-52’s; & The Monkees have long needed to go in, too.

    The rrhof people may be oblivious or too establishment or whatever, but they need to realize that music (especially where such styles as rock ‘n’ roll & its most important genetic offshoots are concerned) must be more than just popularity for its own sake, which can too easily lead to mediocrity. They must listen between the tunes, note the affecting lyrics & screams & chants. If they don’t, they will become less & less relevant to what is supposedly their stated agenda.

    Reply this comment
    • Jeff Tamarkin
      Jeff Tamarkin 11 October, 2019, 11:06

      Great comment! Thanks for your input.

      Reply this comment
    • Richard
      Richard 21 October, 2019, 21:59

      Most of the bands and people I don’t know, but some are very marginal. Joe Tex before Lee Dorsey? The Go-Gos were soso. The Shangri-lalas? You’e in lala land. Definitely They Might Be Giants.

      Reply this comment
    • Jim
      Jim 18 January, 2020, 11:46

      …..must disagree with you on Suzi; while her solo career began not LONG after that of the Millington sisters, Quatro was already playing rock with Detroit-area relations in their band the Pleasure Seekers, as early as 1964

      Reply this comment
  106. Emotional Note
    #106 Emotional Note 15 October, 2019, 06:15

    If Neither King Crimson nor Jethro Tull don’t make it in 2020, I will never bother to watch it or visit the hall…EVER! I know you have to put a**es in seats but some shred of integrity. They already have enough bad reality t.v. Music shows on television. The lifetime achievement of musicians who influenced and inspired other musicians. If this ideal is lost. We need to rename this hall, celebrity branding achievement awards. Real musicians should vote for those who brought some real innovation.

    Reply this comment
  107. Dookie
    #107 Dookie 18 October, 2019, 00:40

    I think Iron Butterfly should get in just for the long version of the classic “In a Gadda Da Vida”. Great song. Another I would consider is Rare Earth.

    Reply this comment
  108. Frank
    #108 Frank 18 October, 2019, 02:05

    A lot should there, but not a lot of ”one hit wonders” you listed.

    Reply this comment
  109. Grizzers
    #109 Grizzers 18 October, 2019, 03:17

    Where are Slade on the list ??

    A superb gritty rock band with some tremendous hits. Also a huge influence on those who came late, including the likes of Oasis.

    Reply this comment
  110. Big Jay
    #110 Big Jay 18 October, 2019, 14:43

    Who are these “Judges”??? They need to induct more than they do and more deserving than they do. Jagoffs!!!!!!

    Reply this comment
  111. Just The Facts
    #111 Just The Facts 18 October, 2019, 19:07

    90% of the people in this list should not be in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame along with about 40% of the acts that are already in.

    Reply this comment
  112. BRAPP70
    #112 BRAPP70 19 October, 2019, 11:25

    how about…NRBQ…????!!!!????….

    Reply this comment
  113. kevvan
    #113 kevvan 16 January, 2020, 12:57

    What of Huey Lewis and the News? Tight band, backed by tower of power alum, long run of hits, and very good musicians. Huey also has a diverse number of contributions with other artists.

    Reply this comment
  114. PutKansasIn
    #114 PutKansasIn 17 January, 2020, 14:28

    There are some amazing bands in your list but you forgot Kansas. While most know them for Dust In the Wind or Carry On Wayward Son, there are far better cuts that were never released. When you mention prog rock and do not mention Kansas, you are doing yourself and the readers an injustice. Kansas should be in the RnR HOF. Gavel down.

    Reply this comment
  115. MikeAB
    #115 MikeAB 18 January, 2020, 09:36

    I guess the fan voting really doesn’t mean much since only 1 of the top 5 in voting got in. Why bother voting them. They are going to pick who they want. So many on this list should be in plus others!

    Reply this comment
  116. Jim
    #116 Jim 18 January, 2020, 11:41

    Hi – couldn’t agree MORE with at least HALF of those noted; have just published a Change.org petition to remove John Sykes from all related HOF decisions – please DO sign & Share it if you would? Thanks!

    https://www.change.org/p/rock-roll-hall-of-fame-board-members-remove-former-mtv-president-john-sykes-from-all-rock-roll-hof-related-decisions

    Reply this comment
  117. as4beatles
    #117 as4beatles 31 January, 2020, 02:45

    If Poco, Carly Simon, The Carpenters,Harry Chapin, Nilson and Warren Zevon are on your “why aren’t they in” list then how can you forget Loggins and Messina (or Loggins solo), Dan Fogleberg, and Seals and Crofts on this list? All had long careers. Millions of albums sold. Some had Grammy’s, and lots of hits.

    Reply this comment
  118. Pierrot
    #118 Pierrot 30 March, 2020, 12:01

    A convicted killer Phil Spector should be removed form the R&R Hall of Fame

    Reply this comment
  119. Robob
    #119 Robob 18 April, 2020, 11:41

    Here is what think you should be in :
    The Monkees, The Guess Who, E.L.P., Jehtro Tull, Foreigner, Bad Company,
    Three Dog Night, Harry Chapin, Carole King, America, Tommy James & Shondells
    Styx, Sweet, Boston, Pat Benatar, King Crimson, Ozzy, Scorpions, Ronnie James Dio,
    Judas Priest, Iron Maiden, Sound Garden, Stone Temple Pilots, Rage Against The Machine,Yngwie Malmsteen, and Allan Holdsworth

    Reply this comment
  120. Sal
    #120 Sal 1 September, 2020, 15:55

    Connie Francis should have been among the very first to get inducted. She was a pioneer, had great success and was the biggest female of the era. She paved the way for other females.

    Reply this comment
  121. Zoomah
    #121 Zoomah 21 September, 2020, 16:05

    Who was more responsible for people picking up guitars in the late fifties and early Sixties than the Kingston Trio. They also hold Chart records that only the Beatles come close to.

    Reply this comment
  122. phil
    #122 phil 22 September, 2020, 00:53

    Jack Bruce, Brian Auger and the Savage Rose belong on some roll of honor, but neither here nor in that fufu Hall. They are on mine ..

    Reply this comment
  123. Miss Demeanor
    #123 Miss Demeanor 22 September, 2020, 04:40

    What about Sweet????
    Guns N’ Roses, Def Leppard, Kiss… The whole 80’s glam/hard rock generation were influenced by them! Not to mention that Queen copied everything they could from them.

    Reply this comment
  124. bcdeuce55
    #124 bcdeuce55 22 September, 2020, 08:47

    Face it, the so-called Rock and Roll Hall of Fame lost all credibility when ABBA was inducted. ABBA has never done any music that could remotely be construed as “Rock and Roll.” What a joke.

    Reply this comment
  125. Detroit lady
    #125 Detroit lady 22 September, 2020, 17:18

    So much talent not in the RRHOF and yet
    madonna gets in? Go figure!

    Reply this comment
  126. Lightbulb
    #126 Lightbulb 19 November, 2020, 19:21

    Frankie Valli as solo Artist

    Reply this comment
  127. Hollybeat69
    #127 Hollybeat69 27 January, 2021, 09:28

    Nick Drake, John Coltrane, Felice amd Boudleaux Bryant( songwriters for the Everly Brothers and Buddy Holly to name a few)

    Reply this comment
  128. BRO77TX
    #128 BRO77TX 30 January, 2021, 17:57

    Ummmmm….
    BACHMAN TURNER OVERDRIVE!!

    Reply this comment
  129. Dennis
    #129 Dennis 8 February, 2021, 17:16

    You forgot X!

    Reply this comment
  130. bobbyb5
    #130 bobbyb5 9 February, 2021, 00:18

    90% of the people on your list I overwhelmingly would agree with. And probably 100% when you compare it to all the garbage that was inducted beginning with the 1980s. There’s really no excuse for any of these 70s people not being inducted.

    Reply this comment
  131. Woody
    #131 Woody 9 February, 2021, 05:25

    Isn’t it true that the HOF is attempting to diversify to all other different types of music? I know that I heard that to be true—I totally disagree—why say ROCK N ROLL —say MUSIC HOF which makes me laugh and cry at the same time. Rock n Roll is what it should be and stop this pandering. Having said this Benatar is a crime she should be in yesterday not to mention Foreigner and Styx. I have been there 3-4 times and it is really a cool place to visit. Take more than a day though—rushing through the levels is not the way to see it all!

    Reply this comment
  132. Wolfdad
    #132 Wolfdad 9 February, 2021, 08:27

    why does everyone forget Kansas?

    Reply this comment
    • RaleighTom
      RaleighTom 10 February, 2021, 08:53

      Amen on Kansas!! It blows my mind that they are not in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame already!

      Reply this comment
  133. v2787
    #133 v2787 9 February, 2021, 13:18

    It is criminal that Paul Revere & the Raiders are not in the Hall. They had hit after hit after hit, and their live show was always fantastic. Plus, they were prototypical garage rockers who really did rock. They need to be in the Hall of Fame!!!

    Reply this comment
  134. Da Mick
    #134 Da Mick 9 February, 2021, 15:41

    The sooner you give up your expectations of what the “Rock Hall” should be, but isn’t, and never has been, the sooner you will cease to be disappointed by its yearly omissions, and often worse, its choices.

    Reply this comment
  135. Rockrelic
    #135 Rockrelic 10 February, 2021, 09:05

    What about Pat Boone and Paul Anka?

    Reply this comment
  136. Jamey
    #136 Jamey 10 February, 2021, 19:24

    In my opinion, John Hiatt is the most underrated and under appreciated singer, songwriter, and musician out there. His influence on other artists and the respect they have for him is much more impactful and enduring than so many already enshrined. He is phenomenal in his own right as an artist, but when considering the vast diversity of the songs he has written and the artists who have covered them, his absence is far more that just a mere oversight. If you are not familiar with his work, check out a list of the artists who have covered his songs.

    Reply this comment
  137. Dtine
    #137 Dtine 10 February, 2021, 23:04

    Major omissions from your list include:
    Gary “U.S.” Bonds
    Jackie De Shannon
    Garnet Mimms
    Irma Thomas
    Al Kooper
    Doug Sahm
    The Pogues
    Dave Edmunds
    Nick Lowe
    Patti LaBelle

    All thoroughly deserving.

    Reply this comment
    • Jeff Tamarkin
      Jeff Tamarkin 11 February, 2021, 06:56

      Thanks for the additions but we listed most of them (some are in part 2). We listed Kooper as a member of the Blues Project and Sahm with the Sir Douglas Quintet. We also listed Rockpile, with both Lowe and Edmunds. In part 2 we listed Labelle and Irma Thomas.

      Reply this comment
  138. Melinda
    #138 Melinda 12 February, 2021, 08:27

    Prog bands and British Invasion bands have been greatly overlooked. We fans voted for the Moodies and Zombies and finally they were inducted. My suggestions not on the list would be Styx, Strawbs, Renaissance, Marillion, Kansas, Wishbone Ash, Chad and Jeremy, Gerry and the Pacemakers, Searchers, Peter Asher, Abba.

    Reply this comment
  139. ReallyBigShow
    #139 ReallyBigShow 18 March, 2021, 09:04

    Not a bad list especially if you consider that the current RRHOF is really not so but should be named Music Hall of Fame,

    Given the current parameters on whom is eligible for consideration and have yet to be named include::

    Asia
    Blackfoot
    Damn Yankees
    Dio
    Europe
    Hot Tuna
    Johnny Winter (perhaps already mentioned)
    Mountain (ditto)
    Night Ranger
    The Bangles
    The Chambers Brothers
    The Frost
    SRC
    .38 Special
    Vixen

    Reply this comment
  140. ReallyBigShow
    #140 ReallyBigShow 18 March, 2021, 21:57

    Almost forgot! What about:

    Big Brother and the Holding Company
    Dokken\
    Triumph??

    Reply this comment
  141. ReallyBigShow
    #141 ReallyBigShow 18 March, 2021, 22:18

    Last call!!

    THE FUNK BROTHERS!!!!

    Reply this comment
  142. RSchortinghuis
    #142 RSchortinghuis 31 March, 2021, 09:51

    Hmm…Still ‘an only USA orientated list’. Still that inbreed attitude that the RRHOF has. Where’s Status Quo. This British band sold more than 100 million records in the 70’s and 80’s. Not very popular in the US, but very popular elsewhere. Kings of Heads down boogie rock. Almost 50 hits in the UK and lots in Europe.

    Reply this comment
  143. Mark
    #143 Mark 13 May, 2021, 17:09

    The Beau Brummels…how many bands can lay claim to being instrumental in both the development of the San Francisco sound and the birth of country/rock? And Sal Valentino is one of the most underrated singers in rock history.

    The Left Banke…one of the earliest bands to successfully meld classical and rock. Mike Brown was an unsung genius.

    Reply this comment
  144. Me
    #144 Me 18 May, 2021, 09:56

    Don’t have to popular in U.S. to be great, played by great musicians. Many acts are not from U S., & despite popularity. Mainstream or radio play is sometimes a band at their most mediocre…to make money.

    Musical excellence is the critetia…90 plus percent of the HOF have less talented musicians…see above. Listen to ALL of Moontan, Radar Love is ave on it. Then the album Switch, then To The Hilt. Just those, 1973 to 1976.

    Naysayers are oblivious, or don’t appreciate musicians. It is mainstream putz stuff.

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  145. Italian4fox
    #145 Italian4fox 18 May, 2021, 13:59

    Tommy James and Joe Cocker are the most glaring to me on the artist side. Not on your list though is Dan Fogelberg, a great musician, singer and songwriter. So many timeless songs.

    Reply this comment
  146. John
    #146 John 18 May, 2021, 16:25

    Kansas is long overdue …

    Reply this comment
    • Woody
      Woody 19 May, 2021, 05:01

      Kansas, Bad Company, Pat Benatar, Foreigner, Boston, BOC,Frampton, Carpenters, Three Dog Night, Jethro Tull are all No Brainers!! The first two albums I purchased in my life were Bad Co. Desolation Angels and Foreigner-1st album. First concerts EVER seen were Boston, Jethro Tull, BOC and Zeppelin!! First 4 in my list are 2x No brainers!!!

      Reply this comment
  147. Woody
    #147 Woody 19 May, 2021, 05:20

    Iron Maiden and Judas Priest—not personally a Big Metal fan but c’mon!! Gordon Lightfoot, The Guess Who, America, and my favorite band of all time!! Collective Soul. They should get in with ease! Shine, December, Gel, The World I know, Where the River Flows, Needs, Precious Declaration, Why Part 2, Heavy, Hollywood—I could go on and on! Ed Roland and gang are awesome!!!. Good guys too! Met them more than once and have seen them live 20 times. They just enjoy playing and hanging with each other and the fans!!

    Reply this comment
    • Slider
      Slider 15 February, 2024, 23:00

      Unbelievable the Guess Who haven’t been nominated for the Hall. Topping the Rolling Stones and Beatles with American Women shame on the Hall of Fame

      Reply this comment
  148. LarryFrame
    #148 LarryFrame 19 May, 2021, 10:59

    I pretty much agree with your list. I don’t think any of the RAP or HIP HOP artist should be given any consideration. The ones that are already in should be removed as they are not close to being ROCK.

    Reply this comment
  149. David
    #149 David 19 May, 2021, 21:51

    So many great and deserving artists on your list, but for me, the two that top them all are Cliff Richard and The Shadows. Separately. Cliff just had a Top 5 album in the British charts for the EIGHTH DECADE IN A ROW. If only for how he influenced the British Invasion in the late ’50s and early ’60s, he should be in there, but despite ups and downs over the decades, he has released so much incredible music over the decades that almost every country around the world (except the U.S.) recognizes as brilliant. And as for Hank Marvin, Bruce Welch, and the rest of the Shads, seriously, if The Ventures are in there, the Shads should have been in there before them. Marvin influenced so many of rock’s later, name guitarists. What has the Hall (not) been thinking regarding the absence of these legends?

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  150. Bo
    #150 Bo 20 May, 2021, 01:28

    The Commodores and Lionel Richie. 2 separate inductions.

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  151. John
    #151 John 14 July, 2021, 19:13

    Los Lobos only being nominated once and not getting in is criminal IMO. Name me one other band that was (mostly) all friends in high school, have had virtually no personnel changes, still tour like crazy and continue to put out compelling new music after 45+ years, still live in the neighborhood they grew up in…and play rock, blues, any number of authentic hispanic styles, and have had their ‘outside’ moments too (Latin Playboys). It’s not like they haven’t sold a few million records along the way…or collected a few Grammys here and there. Yet still not invited to the dance. I’ll wait.

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  152. Kilowatt
    #152 Kilowatt 22 January, 2022, 10:08

    The ‘Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’? Really? More like The Mistake on the Lake. So many artists who should be included, but aren’t. So many people who are in that shouldn’t be. Rappers are not rockers. SMH

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  153. Msnny52
    #153 Msnny52 22 January, 2022, 14:09

    DAN FOGELBERG!!

    Reply this comment
  154. Greg
    #154 Greg 23 January, 2022, 17:00

    What are the benefits to being inducted to the Rock N Roll Hall of Fame? Especially now after the Covid event, I don’t think any of these bands care.

    Reply this comment
  155. Sam Lucero
    #155 Sam Lucero 9 February, 2022, 11:39

    This is the rock n roll hall of fame isn’t it. Let us not forget the music that influenced and generation with their music The Jonny Winters, Jethro Tull, Peter Frampton, Humble Pie, Stepmnwolf, Ten Years After etc, etc.
    if not voted they should be part of hall of fame if nothing else say legacy nomination not to be ever forgotten. That’s what’s it’s all about isn’t it. Rock Toll Hall Fame create some legacy platform and get these bands in and let there music be part of the legacy you e created Thank You

    Reply this comment
  156. Zoomah
    #156 Zoomah 4 May, 2022, 20:39

    How about The Kingston Trio? They caused more people to pick up guitars and play than anyone else in the Fifties.

    Reply this comment
  157. owsbeast
    #157 owsbeast 5 May, 2022, 11:29

    Thanks for the great article and list.
    I think a band that should be in there and is the Canadian R&R Hall of Fame is “Triumph “. In a time when there was so much negativity and evil ans is still relevant today they brought positivity into the world with songs like “Fight the Good Fight” and “Never Surrender ” just to name a couple. Let’s just say from own personal experience, they brought me out of the dark when things were darkest.

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  158. JennyB
    #158 JennyB 5 May, 2022, 16:11

    We could argue all day and night long about who should be in the HOF or who shouldn’t be. The important part of this whole story is that people seem to have forgotten one critical thing: The Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame is a JOKE! And being inducted is a joke as opposed to being an honor. Were I any one of these artists, I would be insulted to be included in a corporate structure that, in and of itself, proved to be the actual downfall of RnR. It should be about the music but it’s not. And anyone with half a brain knows that Jann Wenner is the king in charge of the entire mess. No one gets acknowledged unless the king says so. I’m usually not as nasty as this but I feel this strongly about it. I love RnR music, grew up the best of the best of it, still love it, and always will. I just can’t abide the idiots who have proclaimed themselves “Experts” and who think they know better. To those about to Rock, we salute you! Rock on, everyone, and just enjoy! Stay cool and stay rockin’!
    Peace and love to all!

    Reply this comment
    • Jeff Tamarkin
      Jeff Tamarkin 5 May, 2022, 18:10

      Wenner has not been involved with the HoF for several years but for the first few decades he was very much in charge.

      Reply this comment
  159. Maybe a larger number of musicians should be inducted each year
    #159 Maybe a larger number of musicians should be inducted each year 5 May, 2022, 17:10

    There is a good number of Pop, Country, Rap, Hip-Hop, Disco and other non-strictly Rock performers already inducted. So I would add the following forgotten women: Helen Reddy – her songs of female empowerment as well as female survival, and her kick-ass voice should be a shoe in; Bette Midler, another lady with a kick-ass voice sho could sing Pop Rock, Standards, R’nB and did a bang up job performing in a movie as Rock Queen Janis Joplin, belongs; Olivia Newton-John – Pop Queen of the 70s & 80s, who has done Country, Folk, Soft Rock, Pop, Pop Rock, Dance, and even New Wave and starred in the biggest Rock movie of all time, “Grease” belongs also. Thanks

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  160. Big Kahuna
    #160 Big Kahuna 5 May, 2022, 17:50

    Glad to see your love for Glen Campbell.
    I would add the Swampers, the session musicians first at Fame Studios in Muscle Shoals. Ala., then at the Muscle Shoals Sound Studio. Lynyrd Skynyrd immortalized them in “Sweet Home Alabama. “

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  161. José
    #161 José 6 May, 2022, 10:45

    Jethro Tull or anybody!

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  162. Roadie
    #162 Roadie 11 July, 2022, 06:20

    Rock n Roll Hall of Shame overlooked:. Neil Sedaka, Connie Francis, Freddy Boom Boom Cannon, Chubby Checker, Bobby Vee. Bobby Vinton, Mary Wells, Ben E King, Tommy Roe, Leslie Gore, The Monkees, Jimmy Clinton, Jack Scott, Duane Eddy, Franky Avalon, and many, many more!

    Reply this comment
  163. Mal
    #163 Mal 3 February, 2023, 09:47

    J.J. Cale deserves inclusion, “hands-down.”

    Reply this comment
  164. Wolfdad
    #164 Wolfdad 3 February, 2023, 16:13

    Tom Jones? Really? Am I the only person that ever heard about Kansas???

    Reply this comment
  165. Richard Michael
    #165 Richard Michael 24 February, 2023, 00:43

    Unquestionably Jethro Tull is the worst snub. Connie Francis had countless hits for early rock, it took way too long for Moody Blues and Chicago, what is that all about.

    Reply this comment
  166. Shannon
    #166 Shannon 20 March, 2023, 08:21

    I think you should include The Osmonds on this list as well

    Reply this comment
    • Udemami
      Udemami 4 May, 2023, 09:00

      This is what I think should happen. Just like the Baseball Hall of Fame they have senior bands/ individuals from different eras. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame should have the same. Choosing two bands or individuals from the ’50s’60s and ’70s. I I don’t care what they call it there are plenty of bands/individuals worthy of recognition.
      For example
      50’s The Crests/Cadillacs
      60’s Grass Roots/ Lesley Gore
      70’s Three Dog Night/Steppenwolf
      A group or performer has to have a record that is 50 years old.
      Comments?

      Reply this comment
    • Swewdog
      Swewdog 8 May, 2023, 21:14

      You mean the white J5? Donny’s Puppy Love is one of the best cringe-worthy songs ever recorded. Remember, One Bad Apple Don’t Spoil The Whole Bunch!

      Reply this comment
      • Batchman
        Batchman 18 September, 2023, 19:37

        And the worst thing about “One Bad Apple” is they didn’t even get the saying right! One bad apple DOES spoil the whole bunch – that’s the point of it!

        Reply this comment
  167. Indy47
    #167 Indy47 5 May, 2023, 20:51

    The Tubes. How can they be excluded? And Procol Harum? Al Stewart?
    Give me a break…

    Reply this comment
  168. Sam
    #168 Sam 6 May, 2023, 00:53

    Redbone …Native American band.

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  169. Swewdog
    #169 Swewdog 8 May, 2023, 21:11

    So happy to see Al Kooper getting inducted. He should have been a long, long time ago. His addition to Like A Rolling Stone alone is part of Rock Music history. But, let’s not forget Blues Project, B,S,&T., Super Session, Live Adventures, etc. Pretty amazing guy, to say the least.

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  170. Cisco Pike
    #170 Cisco Pike 11 May, 2023, 00:37

    Shel Talmy. He only produced the early Who and the early Kinks. My Generation? You Really Got Me? What does a guy have to do?

    Reply this comment
  171. Dude
    #171 Dude 17 September, 2023, 23:25

    OMG ! Without Guitar God Robin Trower this list is bogus, for sure!

    Reply this comment
  172. Tony
    #172 Tony 18 September, 2023, 00:59

    Ronnie Montrose and Frank Marino and Mahogany Rush

    Reply this comment
  173. Flavio
    #173 Flavio 18 September, 2023, 08:29

    UFO, man!
    don’t let UFO out of this list

    Reply this comment
  174. Howling Diabetic
    #174 Howling Diabetic 19 September, 2023, 04:52

    I’ve never cared a fig for “The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame” or who gets the nod for inclusion. For one thing, if every person or band who ever put out a record, even a great one (Question Mark and The Mysterians) were to wind up inscribed on the plaque, it no longer would mean anything. By its very nature, lists like this one has to have more losers than winners.

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  175. Jmack
    #175 Jmack 19 September, 2023, 23:35

    Some absolutely shocking omissions I can’t believe that acts like three dog night and Grand funk aren’t in there. They were HUGE and TDN were on the radio consistently for many years much like credence ..Canned heat played Woodstock and were a great blues rock band with a large following …of course Jethro Tull is being screwed I think ELP should be in there for sure as well as Bad Company.

    Reply this comment
  176. Kim
    #176 Kim 4 November, 2023, 17:59

    Is Gram Parsons in yet? I see Flying Burrito Brothers on the list of overlooked. Also Dr. Hook- for so many reasons, from their early 70’s songs, to the footage of them on Shel Silverstein’s houseboat, their legendary drunken concerts in Denmark, then their clean up and reinvention as late 70s AM radio stars

    Reply this comment
  177. Big Boy
    #177 Big Boy 15 November, 2023, 09:41

    No Johnny Rivers, but someone named Missy Elliot is in? If you want to put Black artists in there are oodles more appropriate than Ms. Elliot. Johnny Rivers is not in the RRHoF. That is sad.

    Reply this comment
  178. Ron
    #178 Ron 11 February, 2024, 17:26

    I respect your lists of the 200 overlooked performers for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. I especially like the inclusion of the artists – Connie Francis, Freddy Cannon, Bobby Rydell, Neil Sedaka, Petula Clark, Lesley Gore and Johnny Rivers, Diana Ross – from the early decade of rock and roll that has been basically ignored now for years. The only artist I believe also needs to be included is Paul Anka, who like Neil Sedaka, has had a long career as a solo artist, but whose songs he wrote have been sung and become hits for so many other performers through the years. How could his impact on rock and roll get ignored after all this time?

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