On Tuesday, Oct. 15, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame unveiled its class of nominees for 2020. The diverse list features 16 acts ranging from the last 50 years. To go along with the critic’s ballots, a voting system for fans will be available online until Jan. 10, because only 5 artists get in at a time, here are the ones who deserve the recognition the most.
It feels disrespectful that it took this long for T. Rex to get nominated for the first time. Initially formed in 1967, this innovative band did not make it big until they fully embraced a more electric sound. As the 70s progressed, they eventually became pioneers of the movement known as Glam Rock. Flamboyant stage shows filled with energy and a unique leader in Marc Bolan allowed the public to notice their creativity. They have been referenced in other pieces of music like Mott the Hoople’s “All the Young Dudes” and The Who’s “You Better You Bet.” Bolan’s tragic passing in 1977 ended their tenure and hopefully the hall recognizes their legacy.
When describing Whitney Houston’s voice, legendary record head Clive Davis stated, “She finds meaning and depth and soulfulness in a song that often the writer and composer never really knew was there.” Houston has been cited as the most awarded female artist of all time by Guinness World Records and for good reason. Her angelic talent left the world too soon, but her catalogue remains an inspiration for singers everywhere. She may not be the standard definition for “Rock and Roll,” but with a hall of fame already featuring Madonna, Janet Jackson and Donna Summer, there is no way you leave out “The Prom Queen of Soul.”
Pat Benatar, a Long Island native, has been a constant force since 1979. After arriving on the scene early with a fantastic version of “I Need a Lover,” she would later record hits like “Love is a Battlefield,” “We Belong” and “Heartbreaker.” Combining a signature edge and distinctive voice, she certainly has hit audiences with her best shot for 40 years.
The Doobie Brothers established a name for themselves immediately within the rock scene. “Black Water,” “Long Train Runnin” and “China Grove” highlighted the musical prowess they had with Tom Johnston as their sole vocalist. In 1976, blue-eyed soul singer Michael McDonald joined, and the alteration led to smash hits. He penned the song, alongside Kenny Loggins, “What A Fool Believes,” which won the Grammy for Song of the Year in 1980. All the voters must do is “Listen to The Music” and know that they are worthy of the prestigious enshrinement.
Arguably the most eclectic musician nominated, Todd Rundgren has been steadily recording new material since 1966. Starting off in “Utopia,” Rundgren evolved towards a solo career releasing tunes still heard today on classic rock radio like “Hello It’s Me” and “I Saw the Light.” If you are a Green Bay Packers fan, you might be familiar with “Bang the Drum All Day.” Along with releasing his own material, he has produced famous albums from artists including Meat Loaf, The New York Dolls and Grand Funk Railroad.
Other artists nominated are Dave Matthews Band, Depeche Mode, Judas Priest, Motörhead and The Notorious B.I.G. However, some that should have been included amongst the nominees are groups like The Monkees, Bad Company, Carole King and Harry Nillson. Hopefully one day these artists are given their time in the spotlight as well.
Image via Rock and Roll Hall of Fame via YouTube
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Thanks for the article! Please note that the Doobies first #1 hit – Black Water – was written by Pat Simmons, founding member of the band, and lead vocal on that tune. So when you say Tom Johnston was the sole vocalist, that not quite true. Pat is the lead vocal on MANY tunes prior to 1976. Listen to Toulouse Street, The Captain and Me, One Were Once Vices are Now Habits and Stampede. He’s ALL OVER lead vocals.
Best wishes.