Three bands that deserve to be in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame but won’t make it

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As a music enthusiast who has spent countless hours immersed in the tunes of various bands spanning different eras and genres, I can’t help but feel a sense of dismay at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s choices. While I’m thrilled to see the 2024 class being inducted, I can’t help but question the exclusion of some bands that have significantly shaped my life and the musical landscape.

The 2024 inductees for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame are scheduled for October 19. This year’s group includes acts like Dave Matthews Band, Foreigner, and Ozzy Osbourne, among others. While not every inductee may be universally recognized as deserving, it’s worth noting that the Rock Hall has had its share of controversy regarding worthy candidates in the past.

Interestingly, it often happens that a significant number of highly talented rock bands, like Bad Company, are excluded from the Hall, which seems counterintuitive given its focus on music. However, the Hall of Fame tends to favor artists outside of rock genres, such as Dolly Parton, who may not necessarily align with the museum’s expected theme.

It’s important to note that I have nothing but respect for Dolly, and she herself was surprised by her induction. However, music enthusiasts might find it hard to believe that these next three groups haven’t been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame yet:

Three bands the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame continues to snub

REO Speedwagon

It’s puzzling as to why REO Speedwagon seems to be overlooked by the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, given that bands like Foreigner have been inducted. Despite their careers having similar trajectories, and both bands being equally popular during their time, it appears REO Speedwagon has not received this recognition. In the early 80s, they dominated the airwaves with some strong rock songs. However, their music seemed to lose its appeal later in the decade.

Surely, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is meant to represent more than just popular bands, but it seems there’s a pattern where groups like REO Speedwagon are overlooked, such as Styx. It could be that the band wasn’t considered edgy or risk-taking enough to make the list of potential inductees. Nonetheless, if Foreigner has been inducted, then it’s only fair for the band from Champaign, Illinois, to also receive recognition.

Soundgarden

It’s downright unfair that Soundgarden hasn’t made it into the Rock Hall. Their impact on rock music is undeniable, with Chris Cornell being a legendary vocalist whose voice continues to echo through rock history. Despite his untimely passing, it seems that shouldn’t affect their induction. Interestingly, there are times when the voters seem to overlook the ‘rock’ in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Originally, there were four major grunge bands: Nirvana, Pearl Jam, Soundgarden, and Alice In Chains. Currently, two of these bands, Nirvana and Pearl Jam, have already been inducted into the Hall of Fame. However, it’s worth noting that the other two bands, particularly Soundgarden, also deserve recognition. Artistically, Soundgarden significantly expanded the limitations of grunge music and managed to sell over 30 million records globally.

The Commodores

2022 saw Lionel Richie’s induction, but it’s important to remember that the Commodores were more than just a solo act for him. While his voice was undeniably central, songs like “Brick House” are not solely attributed to him due to their funk roots. The rhythm section is what truly makes these tracks stand out, compelling listeners to get up and dance.

Apart from their initial success, the group continued to churn out hits. In fact, The Commodores managed to have ten songs reach the top ten on the US Pop charts and four top-ten albums. However, the band faces a challenge due to Richie being inducted as a solo artist before them. The Rock Hall tends to avoid inducting bands and their individual members too closely, which could mean another decade before the Commodores are rightfully recognized.

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2024-10-16 13:00