Well, after about two years away, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame has recently released its 2023 ballot, and while I’m two weeks behind, better late than never.
Kate Bush
Genres: Art Rock, Baroque Pop, Progressive Pop
Key Recordings: The Kick Inside [1978], “Breathing” [1980], The Dreaming [1982], Hounds of Love [1985], “Don’t Give Up” [1986; with Peter Gabriel (2010 w Genesis/2014)], The Sensual World [1989]
Eligible Since: 2003
Previously Nominated: 2018, 2021, 2022
Kate Bush returns to the ballot for her fourth nomination, now armed with her resurgence courtesy of the use of her hit “Running Up That Hill” on Stranger Things. As far as Bush’s career, what can I say? From her debut single “Wuthering Heights” in 1978 at the tender age of 19-becoming the first female artist to hit #1 on the UK charts with a self-penned song-to being one of the earliest artists to utilize the Fairlight CMI on a commercial record, from being the first known artist to use a headset with a wireless microphone onstage to collaborating with mega elites like Peter Gabriel (2010 w Genesis;2014), Prince (2004), Elton John (1994), and David Gilmour (1996 w Pink Floyd), influencing and/or being covered/sampled by the likes of Radiohead (2019), PJ Harvey, OutKast (seriously, Big Boi is a MAJOR Kate Bush fanboy), Adele, Tupac (2017), Pat Benatar and Neil Geraldo (2022), Herbie Hancock, St. Vincent, Björk, Coldplay, Florence And The Machine, Boy George, Brazilian thrash band Angra, Tank, free jazz guitarist Sonny Sharrock, John Lydon (2006 w The Sex Pistols), The Prodigy, Fiona Apple, Tori Amos, Kim Petras, Lady Gaga, you name it.
Kate Bush is a brilliant artist, simply put. And while this is obviously not her first time on the ballot, the aforementioned resurgence means this is the best shot she’s ever had. I am definitely routing for Kate, she is a true diamond in the rough who’s shine has never dimmed but rather brightened as time goes on.
A Tribe Called Quest
Members: Kamaal “Q-Tip” Fareed, Ali Shaheed Muhammad, Malik “Phife Dawg” Taylor†, Jarobi White
Genres: Alternative Hip Hop, Jazz Rap, East Coast Hip Hop, Progressive Hip Hop
Key Recordings: People’s Instinctive Travels And The Paths Of Rhythm (1990), The Low End Theory (1991), Midnight Marauders (1993), We Got It From Here…Thank You 4 Your Service (2016)
Eligible Since: 2015
Previously Nominated: 2022
A Tribe Called Quest, one of Alternative Hip Hop’s pillars in the early 1990s, make their second consecutive appearance on the ballot. The biggest act to come out of the Native Tongues collective, A Tribe Called Quest played a crucial development in the development of alternative hip hop, being among the first acts to based their sampling around jazz rather than the likes of James Brown and Parliament-Funkadelic as well as bringing forward more abstract lyricism and consciousness into hip hop. In addition, their album The Low End Theory has recently been inducted into the Library of Congress’ National Recording Registry, which is for sound recordings considered “historically, culturally, and/or aesthetically significant, and/or reflects life in the United States”.
A Tribe Called Quest, a phenomenal group, a group that really opened the doors for so many others such as The Roots, D’Angelo, Kanye West, J Dilla, Consequence, Scarface from the Geto Boys, OutKast, really, almost all alternative hip hop. It’s unfortunate that Phife Dawg isn’t with us anymore, but nonetheless, Tribe’s work and legacy speak for themselves, and the group would be a very welcome addition to the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame. Can definitely see ?uestlove doing the honors of inducting them. Excellent pick, glad to see them back on the ballot.
Iron Maiden
Members: Clive Burr†, Paul Di’Anno, Bruce Dickinson, Janick Gers, Steve Harris, Nicko McBrain, Dave Murray, Adrian Smith, Dennis Stratton
Genres: Heavy Metal, NWOBHM, Progressive Metal
Key Recordings: Iron Maiden (1980), Killers (1981), Number Of The Beast (1982), Peace Of Mind (1983), Powerslave (1984), Live After Death (1985), Somewhere In Time (1986), Seventh Son Of A Seventh Son (1988), Brave New World (1999)
Eligible Since: 2005
Previously Nominated: 2021
Ah, yes, Iron Maiden. One of the most iconic metal bands of all time, over 130 million albums sold worldwide-all with little radioplay or mainstream support, might I add, the metal mascot of metal mascots in Eddie, one of the most influential rock or metal bassists Steve Harris, an array of British stamps in the band’s honor (joining the likes of The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Pink Floyd, and Queen), revered as one of the greatest live bands of all time, leading figures in the New Wave of British Heavy Metal, one of the most rabid fanbases you’ll find in rock and metal, or all of popular music for that matter, you name it.
Giving Judas Priest getting in last year (through a back door induction, but I digress), it was only time before Maiden returned to the ballot, and while I wish Motörhead was occupying this spot, Maiden is certainly worthy of induction. And while I always figured on the Piece of Mind lineup plus Di’Anno and Burr being inducted, it is a pleasant surprise to see Dennis Stratton included, and I can’t complain about longtime guitarist Janick Gers being included as well. I can heartily agree with this one, no issue at all.
The Spinners
Bottom Row (L-R): Phillipe Wynne and Bobbie Smith
Members: Henry Fambrough, Billy Henderson†, Pervis Jackson†, Bobbie Smith†, Phillipe Wynne†
Snubbed Members: G.C. Cameron, John Edwards
Genres: R&B, Soul, Philly Soul, Funk, Disco
Key Recordings: “It’s A Shame” (1970), Spinners (1973), New And Improved (1974), Pick Of The Litter (1975), “The Rubberband Man” (1976), “Workin My Way Back To You/Forgive Me, Girl” (1979), “Cupid” (1980)
Eligible Since: 1987
Previously Nominated: 2012, 2015, 2016
After seven years, The Spinners make their return to the ballot. From their early days in Detroit to their breakthrough with 1970’s “It’s A Shame” (co-written and produced by 1989 inductee Stevie Wonder), their move to Atlantic Records and collaborating with writer/producer Thom Bell to produce a string of hit songs and records that helped define 1970s Philly Soul. Though they haven’t always gained the same recognition of their peers at Motown or even some of their Philly Soul peers like The O’Jays, The Spinners have certainly made their impact. They remain a popular touring act, even with most of the classic members having passed on; they’ve influenced or been covered/sampled by the likes of David Bowie (1996), Elvis Costello (2003), Elton John (1994), Todd Rundgren (2021), The Doobie Brothers (2020), Boyz II Men, the Bee Gees (1997), Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five (2007), Wu Tang Clan member Raekwon, legendary session guitarist Paul Jackson Jr., What Is This? (featuring members of Queens Of The Stone Age, 2012 inductees Red Hot Chili Peppers, and 2017 inductees Pearl Jam), DMX, Darryl Hall And John Oates (2014), Seal, Regina Belle, Jay Z (2021), 2Pac (2017), LL Cool J (2021), James Taylor (2000), Gladys Knight (1996 with The Pips), and MF DOOM among others; their music has been used in media such as Stripes (1981), Spaceballs (1987), Avengers: Infinity Wars (2018), Twins (1988), Black Joy (1977), That 70’s Show (1998-06), Malcolm In The Middle (2000-06), Donnie Brisco (1997), Cold Case (2003-10), Beauty Shop (2005), and True Blood (2008-14).
Very nice to see The Spinners back on the ballot, they’re way overdue for induction. I will say that I question the absence of two people-G.C. Cameron, Phillipe Wynne’s predecessor and cousin who sang lead on “It’s A Shame”, the group’s breakthrough hit that paved the way for the run on Atlantic, plus bringing Phillipe onboard, and then Wynne’s successor John Edwards, who was in the group for over twenty years and appeared on hits like “Workin’ My Way Back To You/Forgive Me, Girl” and “Cupid”. Hopefully, this is rectified by the Hall before too late, especially since they’re the only two 70’s members besides founding member Henry Fambrough still with us.
Soundgarden
L-R: Ben Shepherd, Matt Cmaeron, Chris Cornell, and Kim Thayil
Members: Matt Cameron*, Chris Cornell†, Matt Shepherd, Kim Thayil, Hiro Yamamoto
Genres: Grunge, Alternative Metal, Heavy Metal, Hard Rock, Neo-Psychedelia
Key Recordings: Louder Than Love (1989), BadMotorFinger (1991), Superunknown (1994)
Eligible Since: 2013
Previously Nominated: 2020
Making their second appearance on the ballot is 2020 nominee Soundgarden. Grunge pioneers, their rise helping establish Sub Pop as a premier indie label (and influencing Kurt Cobain’s decision to sign Nirvana with the label), also helping bridge alternative and heavy metal alongside peers like Jane’s Addiction and Faith No More. Albums like BadMotorFinger and Superunknown are staples of 90’s Rock, Matt Cameron is among the greatest rock drummers of his generation, Kim Thayil a gifted guitarist in his own right, Hiro Yamamoto and Ben Shepherd are great bassists, and of course, you have a top flight singer, songwriter, and frontman in the late great Chris Cornell.
Honestly, I figured it was only time before Soundgarden returned to the ballot, but I’m nonetheless very pleased to see them here. I love Soundgarden, they really were the full package-the band, the singer, the songwriting, a signature sound all while continuing to expand their horizons. And giving that the ballot isn’t as jam packed with hard rock and heavy metal this year, Soundgarden has a much better shot this year than they did last time. And with their induction, this would be a second induction for Matt Cameron after being inducted with Pearl Jam in 2017. In addition, Cameron and Cornell going in this year would make Temple Of The Dog the second group after The Traveling Wilburys to have each member inducted without the group itself being inducted.
The White Stripes
Members: Jack White, Meg White
Key Recordings: De Stijl (2000), White Blood Cells (2001), Elephant (2003), Get Behind Me Satan (2005), Icky Thump (2007)
Eligible Since: 2023
First Nomination
The first newly eligible nominee on the ballot is power duo The White Stripes. One of the central bands in the 2000s garage rock revival, pillars of indie rock, one of the most critically acclaimed acts of their era, while also gaining commercial success thanks to their minimalist style, their unique aesthetic based around simple reds, whites, and blacks, the no-nonsense playing of leader Jack and drummer Meg, and the blending of punk, blues, and garage rock. And since disbanding in 2011, the group’s stature has arguably only grown.
What more can I say about The White Stripes? Easily one of the best rock groups of the 2000s at a time when we stuck in the middle of post-grunge and nu metal circling the drain, we had two supposed-siblings-who-were-actually-amicable-exes-but-acted-as-siblings-to-keep-the-focus-from-their-music coming in with no frills, no nonsense rock and roll filtered trough raw punk and blues. Album-wise, you really can’t go wrong with The White Stripes and breaking up when they did may very well have been the way to go, because they went out on a high note. With The White Stripes being inducted, that would make the fourth year in a row with a FYI, and I am naturally curious if the famously private Meg White performs with Jack or even attends.
Joy Division/New Order
Members: Ian Curtis†, Gillian Gilbert, Peter Hook, Stephen Morris, Bernard Sumner
Genres: Post-Punk, Gothic Rock, New Wave, Alternative Dance, Electronic Rock
Key Recordings: Unknown Pleasures (1979; Joy Division), “Transmission” (1979; Joy Division), Closer (1980; Joy Division), “Love Will Tear Us Apart” (1980; Joy Division), “Ceremony” (1981; New Order/Joy Division), “Temptation” (1982; New Order), Power, Corruption, & Lies (1983; New Order), Low-Life (1985; New Order), “Bizarre Love Triangle” (1986; New Order), “True Faith” (1987; New Order), Technique (1989; New Order), Republic (1993)
Eligible Since: 2004
First Nomination
Joy Division and New Order. What would modern indie or popular music be without these two intertwined groups? In Joy Division, you have THE post-punk band, a pioneer in gothic rock, one of the most influential vocalists of alternative music in the late Ian Curtis, a truly creative and unorthodox bassist in Peter Hook, an equally innovative and original guitarist in Bernard Sumner, a solid drummer in Stephen Morris, and a maverick producer in Martin Hannett. They put Factory Records on the map and showed that punk could be more than righteous fury but just as easily in mood and atmosphere. Hooky, along with Public Image Ltd’s Jah Wobble and Talking Heads’ Tina Weymouth, really established the bass as a crucial cornerstone of punk and widened its sonic palette in the process. And in New Order, you have a band overcoming the tragic death of their singer and beginning a new chapter. In the process, they would create a legacy that proved rich and vibrant in its own right, pioneering Alternative Dance in the process and achieving commercial success in the process. But most importantly, they are a musical phoenix, a symbol that things can always improve and get better.
What can I say? I love Joy Division and New Order, two amazing bands whose work has stood the test of time, both long overdue for induction. I don’t have a problem with them being inducted together, since not only do you have three of the same people in both groups, but even overlap in musical DNA. Let’s face it, Movement is probably not too far off from what a third Joy Division record would have sounded like, considering that the band had already begun experimenting with synthesizers before Ian’s death. Likewise, “Ceremony” began life as a Joy Division song before evolving into what became New Order.
Regardless, very pleased to see JD/NO on the ballot. And who knows? Maybe a reunion with Hook? Well, we can dream, at least.
George Michael†
Genres: Pop, Blue-Eyed Soul, Dance-Pop, Post-Disco, R&B
Key Recordings: “Careless Whisper” (1984; Wham! Featuring George Michael), Faith (1987), Listen Without Prejudice Vol. 1 (1990), “Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me” (1991; with Elton John)
Eligible Since: 2010
First Nomination
From one eighties alternative mainstay to one eighties pop mainstay, the late George Michael makes his first appearance on the ballot. From his time with Wham! where he and partner Andrew Rigley scored hits such as “Wake Me Up Before You Go”, “Last Christmas”, and especially “Careless Whisper”, to his mega success as a solo artist, over 125 million records sold, with Faith alone selling 25 million to date, two time Grammy winner, collaborator with the likes of Elton John (1994), Queen (2001), Ray Charles (1986), Aretha Franklin (1987), Whitney Houston (2020), Paul McCartney (1988 w The Beatles/1999), and Mary J Blige, in addition to being an LGBT rights and HIV/AIDS research activist. And since his death on Christmas Day 2016 (giving “Last Christmas” a bit of cruel irony in hindsight), his legacy and popularity has continued to endure.
I can’t claim to be the biggest George Michael fan, but I do like some George Michael. Very talented guy, great singer, and really, you just can’t resist that saxophone kicking off “Careless Whisper”. An induction would obviously be bittersweet giving his death, but I’m sure plenty of artists would be happy to perform in honor of him. Also, if he is inducted, I’d love to see Ryan Reynolds induct him. Deadpool does love him some George Michael and Wham!
Duly noted. Make It Big did earn them that exclamation.
Rage Against The Machine
Genres: Rap Metal, Funk Metal, Alternative Metal, Hard Rock
Members: Tim Cummerford, Zack de la Rocha, Tom Morello, Brad Wilk
Key Recordings: Rage Against The Machine (1992), Evil Empire (1996), The Battle of Los Angeles (1999)
Eligible Since: 2017
Previously Nominated: 2018, 2019, 2021, 2022
Rage Against The Machine appears on the ballot. Again. A significant act in 90s Alternative and Funk Metal, pioneers in Rap Metal, politically and socially conscious lyrics and activism that resonates as much today as it ever did, very innovative and unconventional guitar work from Tom Morello, some classic tracks and records in the process (particularly the debut).
I’m going to be blunt, how many times are we going to see them on the ballot? It’s getting tiring at this point, not least because of Morello’s place on the Nominating Committee, which totally doesn’t look at least a little shady, plus all of their contemporaries who’ve struggled to get on the ballot. And for the third year in a row? They (really, Tom) do realize that the more you push an act on the ballot, the more apathetic voters get, right?
Putting that aside, I won’t complain about seeing them inducted, and it is fairly interesting that Soundgarden AND Rage could both be inducted, which would make Audioslave the third group to have each member inducted without the group itself being inducted. Beyond that, I’m not super blown away by this one.
Sheryl Crow
Genres: Rock, Roots Rock, Country Rock, Pop, Adult Alternative
Key Recordings: Tuesday Night Music Club (1993), Sheryl Crow (1996), The Globe Sessions (1998), C’Mon, C’Mon (2002), “Picture” (2002, with Kid Rock)
Eligible Since: 2019
First Nomination
Our third first time nominee appears in the form of singer-songwriter Sheryl Crow, who had previously inducted Fleetwood Mac in 1998 as well as taking part in the 2014 tribute to that year’s inductee Linda Ronstadt. Over 50 million records sold worldwide, nine Grammy wins (out of 32 nominations to date), being the rare winner of “Best New Artist” to not suffer the “curse” of the award, has collaborated with the likes of the aforementioned Fleetwood Mac, Johnny Cash (1992), The Rolling Stones (1989), Sting (2003 w The Police), Loretta Lynn, Vince Gill, Willie Nelson, Eric Clapton (1992 w The Yarbirds;1993 w Cream;2000), Michael Jackson (1997 w The Jackson 5;2001), Leon Russell (2011; Award For Musical Excellence), Prince (2004), Jerry Lee Lewis (1986), Smokey Robinson (1987), Barry Gibb (1997 w The Bee Gees), Miley Cyrus, Chris Stapleton, Stevie Wonder (1989), Scott Weiland, and so many more, in addition to contributing a James Bond theme with “Tomorrow Never Dies” as being accomplished on guitar, piano, harmonica, bass, accordion, ukele, cello, and autoharp.
While I might not be the biggest Sheryl Crow fan, I don’t have an issue with her, very talented and accomplished woman. For somebody that a lot of people initially dismissed as a flash in the pan, Sheryl has truly proven herself as an enduring presence in popular music across multiple genres, and has generally stayed true to herself in the process. All of that in addition to being a breast cancer survivor and subsequently doing a lot for breast cancer awareness and research, I definitely have nothing but respect for her, so no problem at all with her being on the ballot OR being inducted.
Cyndi Lauper
Genres: New Wave, Pop Rock, Synthpop
Key Recordings: She’s So Unusual (1983), “Goonies R Good Enough” (1985), “True Colors” (1986)
Eligible Since: 2009
First Nomination
Cyndi Lauper, the one and only. Icon of the 80s, fashion, and feminism, humanitarian, LGBT rights activist, inspiration to the likes of Katy Perry, Lagy Gaga, Kim Petras, and Tegan and Sara, Songwriter Hall of Fame inductee, Hollywood Walk of Fame Star recipient, key figure in the Rock and Wrestling crossover of the 1980’s,composer of popular Broadway musical Kinky Boots, just one Oscar short of being in the EGOT Club, singer of the Goonies’ theme song. Cyndi Lauper has seen it all, done it all, with her debut album She’s So Unusual remaining a cornerstone of the 80’s, to the point of being inducted by the Library of Congress into its National Recording Registry, which recognizes recordings that historically, culturally, and aesthetically significant.
Cyndi Lauper is a name I wasn’t necessarily expecting to see on the ballot, but I certainly welcome it. Not only because I’m happy for the people at InductCyndiLauper, but also because she really would be a welcome presence at the Hall. And they’ve already got her in the Women Who Rock exhibit, so a solid pick all around.
Willie Nelson
Genres: Country, Outlaw Country, Blues, Jazz, Gospel
Key Recordings: Shotgun Willie (1973), Phases and Stages (1974), The Red Headed Stranger (1975), Wanted! The Outlaws (1976; with Waylon Jennings, Jessi Colter, and Tompall Glaser), “Mammas Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up To Be Cowboys” (1978; w Waylon Jennings), Stardust (1978), Always On My Mind (1982)
Eligible Since: 1986
First Nomination
After Dolly Parton’s induction last year, we have another country music icon on this year’s ballot in the Red Headed Stranger himself, Mr. Willie Nelson. One of the founding fathers of the Outlaw movement, American icon, one of the great songwriters even before hitting stardom in the 70’s, countless awards, produced and starred in the pilot of long running and much beloved series Austin City Limits, 60 million records sold worldwide, multiple stabs at acting, a beloved figure among young and old, liberal or conservative, and many people across different walks of life.
Super cool to see Willie on the ballot, a true legend and icon. Giving that Paul Shaffer has pushed for Willie, and he’s likely not the only one, it makes total sense to see Willie’s name on the ballot, and he’s a welcome addition to the ballot. Country music is one of the key genres that gave birth to the bastard we know and love as rock’n’roll, and Willie is more rock’n’roll than most the rock bands currently inducted. And definitely get him in while he’s still here, especially as the man is turning 90 this year.
Missy Elliott
Genres: Hip Hop, R&B, Progressive Hip Hop
Key Recordings: Supa Dupa Fly (1997), Miss E…So Addictive (2001), Under Constrution (2002)
Eligible Since: 2023
First Nomination
The Queen of Rap herself, Missy Elliott, is the second newly eligible nominee on this year’s ballot. Singer, songwriter, rapper, actress, producer, you name it, Missy “Misdemeanor” Elliott has done it. Since the release of her debut Supa Dupa Fly in 1997, which had the highest chart debut for a female rapper at the time at #3, she has sold 40 million records worldwide, won four Grammys, received the MTV Video Awards’ Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award, and became the first female rapper inducted into the Songwriters Hall Of Fame.
Very pleasant surprise to see Missy on the ballot, she’s extremely deserving of recognition, and I’m naturally happy for Mary at the Rock Hall Watchers podcast since she’s been passionate about seeing more women inducted and particularly seeing female rappers be nominated and inducted. And honestly, I’d say she has a very strong chance of being inducted this year, which could give 2023 two FYI artists in Missy and The White Stripes.
Warren Zevon
Genres: Rock, Folk Rock, Hard Rock, Blues Rock, Singer-Songwriter
Key Recordings: Warren Zevon (1976), Excitable Boy (1978), Sentimental Hygiene (1987), Life’ll Kill Ya (2000), The Wind (2003)
Eligible Since: 1995
First Nomination
Last but not least, maybe the one nominee that truly surprised me, the late Warren Zevon is receiving his first nomination, perhaps thanks to a letter by 1999 inductee Billy Joel. While most know him for “Werewolves of London” and “Lawyers, Guns,& Money”, the man was a songwriter’s songwriter. Known for his wit and sardonic lyrics, what Warren lacked in regular commercial success he more than made up for with the admiration and respect of his peers. Among those who’ve covered him, expressed admiration for him, or even collaborated with him are the likes of Linda Ronstadt (2014), Jackson Browne (2004), Bonnie Raitt (2000), Hank Williams Jr., Bruce Springsteen (1999), Pixies, The Everly Brothers (1986), The War On Drugs, members of both Fleetwood Mac (1998) and Eagles (1998), George Clinton (1997 with Parliament-Funkadelic), Carl Wilson (1988 w The Beach Boys), R.E.M. (2007), Tom Petty (2002 w Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers), Bob Dylan (1988), and GG Allin.
I’ll admit that Warren Zevon is an artist I didn’t immediately “get” when I was younger, though I could always recognize and respect the man’s talent. But who knows? Maybe it was the pandemic aging me to a certain extent, but I’m really glad I’ve revisited Warren Zevon, because I *get it* now. And of course, I’m naturally very happy that he’s shown up on the ballot after all these years. And giving just how revered he is in the biz, Warren’s arguably one of the safest bets this year.
OVERALL THOUGHTS:
That is the 2023 Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame ballot. There’s maybe a nitpick or two, but overall, a pretty good if rather small ballot. I am a little bit disappointed not to see at least three or four more names on here, and as Mary rightfully pointed out, you could easily have put women like Grace Jones on the ballot, or bring Mary Wells or The Marvelletes back, maybe even finally nominate Diana Ross solo. And of course, I can think of other names that could be on the ballot, but that’s for another post.
No matter, it’s smaller than it could or really should be, but it’s a respectable ballot, and I can’t gripe too much. I’m not going to predict the Class just yet, I’ll save that for when we get closer to the Class being officially announced, but welcome back to The Musical Zamboni, happy to be back after all this time.
The Music Zamboni 