Eric Clapton has some biting words for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

by

As a gamer with a deep-rooted passion for music, particularly rock and roll, I can’t help but feel a mix of disappointment and frustration when it comes to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. With its glaring omissions and questionable choices, the institution sometimes feels more like a business than a celebration of the genre that was born out of rebellion and defiance.

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame certainly has its issues. Not having any would be nearly impossible for the kind of institution it is. Music fans will rightfully always find fault in those musical artists not inducted into the Hall. One of those people happens to be a pretty great musician too: Eric Clapton.

Nevertheless, Eric Clapton stands out in the Rock Hall for an exceptional reason. He is the sole artist to be inducted on three separate occasions – once for his successful solo career, another for his tenure with Yardbirds, and yet again for his work with Cream. This unique status might provide him with a platform to express his opinions more freely about how the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame manages its affairs.

On a recent episode of “The Real Music Observer” podcast, Eric Clapton expressed his initial hesitation about joining the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame due to his concern that the institution might prioritize its operation as a business rather than a celebration of music. He questioned whether those in charge of the museum would be true music enthusiasts or if the Hall would only welcome artists who could attract visitors to the Cleveland, Ohio location.

Eric Clapton has some real issues with how the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame does its business

After chatting with individuals like the late Robbie Robertson and having the participation of Ahmet Ertegun, former head of Atlantic Records, Clapton found comfort regarding his induction into the Hall. He appreciated that Atlantic had given opportunities to artists who other record labels might have overlooked.

To clarify, however, Clapton expresses indifference towards the Rock Hall. He perceives it as an exclusive “fraternity” that overlooks deserving artists like J.J. Cale. Moreover, Clapton believes that Paul Rodgers, a former singer for Free and Bad Company, may never be inducted due to his rebellious nature.

The issue the Hall has is that it represents a genre of music based on being rebellious. Rock is supposed to feel dangerous. Leaving out people like Rodgers is ironic and shallow.

In the podcast, Clapton expressed that the fact J.J. has never been considered suggests either what that ‘thing’ is or what it isn’t. It seems unlikely J.J. will ever be involved, as it doesn’t align with their interests. I can’t quite define their interests, but J.J. is too obscure for them…(Rodgers) embodies rebellion. That environment isn’t for rebels; it’s more about tradition and establishment.

Read More

2024-09-15 19:00