Rush? Really? They don’t deserve to be in there.

THE CARS!!!!!

Weird Al, Jethro Tull, and Alice Cooper totally don’t deserve it. Gimmicks are no substitute for talent.

The rest deserve a nomination in varying degrees. The Smiths and Tom Waits are hands down the most deserving, NYD and Television are kinda meh.

Cyndi Lauper!

BON JOVI!!!!

I’m very glad that Television gets enough recognition to make the list. New York Dolls, too, but Marquee Moon and Adventure are both mind-blowing albums for me. Venus should be considered among the greatest songs of all time. Television was remarkable because both the guitars of Verlaine and Lloyd and the bass of Smith were all firing into beautiful individual parts and an even more beautiful whole. Marvelous band, and I really hope they get the recognition they deserve someday.

ELO

Devo!

Defiantly LOU REED!!

Rush deserves the nod most of all. They have been rocking for over 30 years. They have been an influence to others and great preformers.

PHISH

wait, the MC5 aren’t in the Hall? but they’re the MC5. They were punk before there was punk.

And Sonic Youth and the Beasties are eligible but not in?

that’s a damn travesty.

cheap trick, lou reed

Pearl Jam, even if they’re not eligible.

Pat Benatar! How can you overlook the rockin’ist Rocker Chick of all Time!

Both Phish and Pearl Jam are not eligible, so both are impossible. Pearl Jam is most likly a first ballot inductee while Phish is very questionable.

To the guy that thinks that Jethro Tull and Alice Cooper are all gimicks,

Get your ears checked. Once you do that, then you can come back here and discussion your opinion on music.

WARREN ZEVON!!!!

‘My chances of getting into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame are as good as Milli Vanillis’-Weird Al Yankovic

I know its confusing to explain how to get into the Hall of Fame but Rush, The Moody Blues and some prog groups do need to get in

Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes!

The world’s best club band needs to be recognized. Going strong since 1976. One of the best live shows you will see.

Paul Revere & The Raiders

No Jethro Tull ? No Paul Revere & The Raiders ? No Steppenwolf ? No Tommy Bolin ?

Who chooses for the RNRHOF ?

The Rock n Roll Hall of Fame is pretty silly. Does winning one help improve sales? Doubt it.

The Replacements?

They Might Be Giants.

Def Leppard. Always overlooked. Band has stuck together through extremely challenging times. Great songs, great concerts, and great to their fans. Have influenced many bands that followed.

What about The Replacements?

Yeah, I was pretty disappointed that the greatest band of the eighties, The Replacements, didn’t make the list, especially considering that Let It Be turn twenty five years old in less than a week.

There are so many artists in the Hall that don’t belong, yet so many wrongly overlooked. The Hall is a sham run by a bunch of record industry fools trying to hype artists that can still make them a few bucks while they strive to be oh so elite and ubercool

Dear Anonymous Poster:

“Gimmicks are no substitute for talent.”

Weird Al is hardly a gimmick or a one hit wonder. He qualifies under the Rock Hall guidelines. He’s had a career that has outlasted many of those he’s parodied. He writes ALL of his own songs, both parodies and originals.

He’s not only funny, but musically talented as well.

And you, Anonymous Poster, are an idiot.

JJ Fad

Chicago
Bernie Taupin
“Weird Al” Yankovic

Bon Jovi. They got their 25 years last year and no one gives any thought about them. They are better and more “rock n roll” than many that were inducted and are going to be.

Oh and I forgot about Bernie Taupin. No Bernie, no Elton John, end of statement!

@Anonymous

If you didn’t realize, Weird Al doesn’t only do parodies.

Carry on.

Where is Pat Benatar? What do you have to do to get nominated? How many #1 hits do you have to have? Unbelievable that she’s been overlooked.

Is The Jam in there yet? Not sure if they’d be eligible yet.

Why are there no women on this list? Sexist much?

THE GUESS WHO definitely needs induction!

No Zevon?

Weird Al FTW!

Neil Diamond as well!

I haven’t even heard of some of these. I, too, vote for @alyankovic

I think that Weird Al deserves to be in the hall. GO AL!!! You have your loyal followers!!!

Someone should give Mr. Anonymous some information before he gives his $.02. Seriously, Al’s been at it for nearly 30 years. How many other acts have been going on that long? Not only that, but he’s been very successful (more so than most artists he’s parodied!). Ask most people, young or old, and they’ve at least heard of “Weird Al”. Seriously, you have to give credit where it is due and giving an opinion without proper information is weak. That’s just my $.02.

Mr. Weird Al.

Yes to Weird Al, by all means…but also I have to say Cheap Trick.

Seriously, how is Cheap Trick not recognized yet? That’s a crime.

Weird Al totally deserves it. Very talented, comes up with his own material, and vastly successful.

Rush also deserves to be there.

Weird Al!! Although technically Rush should probably get the nod first. Haven’t they been around longer? But seriously, Weird Al kicks accordian!

The Jam is eligible. Surprised they aren’t in there considering their popularity in the UK.

Oasis, first and last two albums brilliant. Shockingly overlooked.

When they are eligible.

I think Mr. Lady Gaga needs to be put in the hall of fame. Or a bottomless pit. Either/or

Where’s MEAT LOAF?!?
at the very least, Jim Steinman!

Motorhead, no one is more rock and roll than Lemmy

Hell yeah, Weird Al totally deserves it!

Thank GAWD the Moody Blues are on that list! I have NO clue why they haven’t been induced before now. They were the first to do a concept album (documented and acknowledged as such) and they are still going strong after 40 years. Alice Cooper = yes, Jethro Tull = Yes, Rush = Yes, Weird Al = Yes, Deep Purple = Yes, Lou Reed = Yes. And since it’s the ROCK n ROLL Hall of Fame – there should be NO Rap artists in there, they have taken away from those who helped mold Rock in the early years (see above).

Not only is Weird Al infinitely creative and talented, but his band deserves a nod, too. To be able to perform songs from multiple genres and have it sound good is no easy feat.

You are nobody until you’ve been parodied by Weird Al.

Moody Blues
Zombies
Procol Harum
Yes
Deep Purple
King Crimson
Genesis
Jethro Tull
Heart
Alice Cooper
Rush
Pat Benatar
Iron Maiden

What about Chicago?

Weird Al TOTALLY deserved it! His band is great too! They`ve been pretty successful, and I listen to their music all the time! GO AL!

Weird Al rocks & totally deserves this honor !!

Depeche Mode.

Weirld Al was one of the best concerts I’ve ever been to. His band can play anything and he is incredibly talented. I’d totally vote for him!

Weird Al is about as legit as it gets.

We need Weird Al and Bermuda Schwartz in the Hall!

There should be a “hall of fame” for actually important people and community groups. Im talking about the soup kitchens, the kids who donate their time to help villages in Africa get water, people who give to the poor and all that. Most rock stars are utterly self absorbed jerks who think they are gods gift to mankind and this hall of fame idea only underscores their delusion.

Just because Weird Al does satire doesn’t make him a joke. He’s a damn good musician, and most of his originals are brilliantly written.

Not to mention that he’s the only virtuoso-level accordionist in rock’n'roll. I mean, c’mon, what more do you need?

Oh, and a hell yeah for Sonic Youth and the Beastie Boys, too.

b.

E.L.O. isn’t already in R&RHOF?
Where do I find out who’s already in the Hall? Then I could tell you (better) who deserves to be picked now.

Another vote for Weird Al — for craftsmanship alone, never mind that he both brought parody songs back into the mainstream in a way not seen since before rock n roll, AND that he was the first polka-punk. He works hard, plays fair, rocks out and even out-DEVO’d DEVO for feck’s sake!

Next year, though, it’s DEVO’s turn. Seriously.

PS is Blondie, Queen and the Pretenders already in there?

to anyone who said Rush doesn’t deserve it? what drugs are you on??? and Wierd Al DEFINETLY should make it in. parody or not he is a musician and has millions of fans worldwide for 20+ years. thats hall of fame material

A Weird Al show is a lot of fun. He even comes into the audience during a song. During costume changes, he shows some of his mock interviews which are infinitley funny. He’s in a class all by himself. Maybe he’s just too good for the hall of fame.

I gotta toss in another Weird Al vote. Yes, the music is 100% silly, but it takes amazing brilliance to find the right theme to act as a foil to the parodied music. And don’t forget that half his songs have original tunes as well as original lyrics; it isn’t all “same music, new words.” As AI_Joe said, you’re nobody until Weird Al has parodied you; he’s been a icon for 3 decades.

Weird Al is incredible, and deserves a spot there, but realistically, he probably won’t ever get it.
I really think that They Might Be Giants deserve to be in too.

How does Weird Al not deserve it?
Writing parodies of songs, still takes creativity and talent. I mean you are going up against the original in a way right? Musicians whom he parodies,are often very pleased with his work also.

It is too bad people can’t get past the “gimmicks” and comedy to see the true musicality Al has. He’s a gift! Damn good musician, as Brian said, and a genius with lyrics.

Al Yankovic is not a gimmick. He’s a showman with considerable skill in composition.

Oh, Anonymous. One of those, I presume, who thinks Al’s catalog begins with Eat It and ends with Fat. Did you even know he does originals as well as parodies?

Talking Heads. Creative, fun, and original.

haha, the Nintendo Wii was considered a gimmick, yet became very fast selling and very much demanded during the Christmas season.

Gimmick or not, “Weird Al” Yankovic is far more talented than this “Anonymous” person could even imagine.

No Billy Joel, Elton John, Genesis, or Phil Collins?.. Though I must say Weird Al deserves to be in there…

(Only 3 more years for TMBG to be able to get in)

WTG Weird Al Yankovic! It was Al that turned me onto music when I was a kid, I still find most other bands boring.

I’m surprised no one’s mentioned Chicago. Chicago needs to be in the Rock HOF. It’s ridiculous that they aren’t.

Why do people keep suggesting artists that?
1) are already in the Rock Hall (Billy Joel, Elton John, etc)
2) are up for nomination this year (Genesis, KISS)

Amen!
Weird Al has been bringing it forever and he’ll continue to bring it until there are no more songs left to parody. Great original songs and great parodies and keep up the excellent work!
I’ve seen Al in concert TWICE and they were the best decisions I’ve ever made. Come back to Dallas again Al! And I’ll see you next year!

~Alison

Elton John is already in the Rock Hall but Bernie Taupin should also be inducted as a Non-Performer!

The MC5, Hands Down.

Kick Out the Jams is still one of the most influential albums of all time. How many musicians have attempted the frantic up pace punk that these guys nailed in 1969. This was almost five years before never mind the bollocks.

Kick Out the Jams has been covered by Presidents of USA, Rage against the MAchine, Henry Rollins, Blue Oyster Cult and Jeff Buckley.

This is a no brainer

The Top 5 Charting Rock And Roll Bands Of All-Time On The Billboard 200 Albums Chart:

01. The Beatles
02. The Rolling Stones
03. The Beach Boys
04. Chicago
05. The Grateful Dead

The Top 5 Charting Rock And Roll Bands Of All-Time On The Billboard 100 Singles Chart:

01. The Beatles
02. The Rolling Stones
03. The Bee-Gees
04. Chicago
05. The Beach Boys

Chicago is the only band on those lists who are not in the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame.

anonymous i hate your comment weird al deserves to be in there doesnt mean you dont believe in those types of music doesnt mean we dont

and selerine it does take alot i am a parody writer myself and it is hard to come up with the right ideas

Weird Al Yankovic definatley and Chicago!

Weird Al!! he is better than all the other bands! he deserves to get in the hall of fame!!!

Chicago was the number one charting band of the 1970s.
Elton John was the number one charting artist of the 1970s overall.

The Top 2 Charting Artists On The Billboard Top 40 Albums Chart Of The 1970s:

01. Elton John
02. Chicago

The Top 5 Charting Artists On The Billboard 200 Albums Chart Of The 1970s:

01. Elton John
02. Elvis Presley
03. Neil Diamond
04. Barbra Streisand
05. Chicago

The Top 5 Charting Rock And Roll Bands Of All-Time On The Billboard 200 Albums Chart And The Billboard Top 40 Albums Chart:

01. The Beatles
02. The Rolling Stones
03. The Beach Boys
04. Chicago
05. The Grateful Dead

The Top 5 Charting Rock And Roll Bands Of All-Time On The Billboard 100 Singles Chart And The Billboard Top 40 Singles Chart:

01. The Beatles
02. The Rolling Stones
03. The Bee-Gees
04. Chicago
05. The Beach Boys

Chicago is the only band on those lists who is not in the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame.

Weird Al sure is a long lasting gimmick with multiple platinum and gold albums, grammy awards, top ten albums and singles etc etc.
Al and his band have had a much longer career then many acts he has parodied. His originals are often better than his parodies too.

Singer-Songwriter and Pianist Elton John and his songwriting partner, Lyricist Bernie Taupin, were both inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1992, but only Elton John was inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall of Fame in 1994. This does not make any sense whatsoever. If there had not been a Bernie Taupin, there would not have been an Elton John and vice versa. Their music was a collaborative effort. Bernie Taupin should have been inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall of Fame back in 1994 as a Lyricist in the Non-Performers category, the same year that Elton John was inducted in the performers category.

Bernie Taupin didn’t just write lyrics exclusively for Elton John. Bernie Taupin also wrote the lyrics for songs recorded by Ringo Starr, Rod Stewart, Kiki Dee, Cher, Alice Cooper, Robert Palmer, Melissa Manchester, Rick Derringer, The Hudson Brothers, Olivia Newton John, The Motels, Starship, Heart, Animotion, Stray Cats, John Waite, Martin Page, Peter Cetera, Bryan Ferry, Tammy Wynette, Little Richard, Marianne Faithful, Courtney Love, John Anderson, Willie Nelson, Teddy Thompson, Emmylou Harris, Lee Ann Womack, Toby Keith, and Brian Wilson, as well as for his own singing career, both as a solo artist and as a member of his own late-1990s Country-Western band, The Farm Dogs.

Elton John and Bernie Taupin comprise one of the longest running and most successful songwriting teams of all time. Bernie Taupin’s 40 years of collaborative work with Elton John alone should qualify him for the Rock And Roll Hall of Fame. Please induct Lyricist Bernie Taupin into the Rock And Roll Hall of Fame in the Non-Performers category. His induction is long overdue.

Al Yankovic is the man. That is all.

Randy Newman
The Replacements
Derek and the Dominoes
NY Dolls
Sonic Youth
Tom Waits
Television
X
Warren Zevon
The Blasters
Beastie Booooooooys
The Faces
Husker Du
Joy Division
Nick Lowe
The Mekons
Pixies
Pogues
Lou Reed
Albert King
Freddie King
Hound Dog Taylor
Captain Beefheart
Ian Dury
Gang of Four
Los Lobos
Minutemen
Lucinda Williams
Taj Mahal
Screamin’ Jay Hawkins
Slim Harpo
Toots and the Maytals
Clifton Chenier

Gotta throw in another vote for Weird Al! He’s awesome!!

Journey should be in there too though! They’ve been at it for 36 years (through several incarnations, sure) and they are the Kings of the Power Ballads!

Kanye West should be at the top of that list.

Newch91, how can you possibly say Rush doesn’t deserve to be there? Your statement makes absolutely no sense. They’re one of the most influential rock groups of all time!

Also, the Pixies very much should get inducted.

And I propose a special adjunct section of The HOF for bands like RUSH, Yes, Bon Jovi, Judas Priest, Jethro Tull, ELO, KISS, Cheap Trick,Def Leppard, etc. They of course don’t deserve to be in the main hall but to calm the angry mob of Hey, We Got Really Bad Taste in Music hoardes, they could attach a 1974 double wide to the back of the HOF….near the bathrooms and the dumpsters. Free hot dogs could be grilled on an oil can turned BBQ. An experienced barber could be on hand to trim up mullets and wispy moustaches (Men and women). Parking will be 1976 Tran-Ams Only.
A seperate section of the hall could also house the “They’re So Bad and Cheesy, They’re Almost Good !” section. Bands would include KISS, The Archies, ABBA, The Monkees, Monty Rock III, Gary Glitter, The I’m Too Sexy For Guys, Lorne Greene, William Shatner, and David Soul. A really gilttery shirt with a very wide collar would be required for entrance.

Although I am a fan of many on the list. I am still won’t go to the Hall until I can visit the Grand Funk Railroad exhibit.

Weird Al should definitely get nominated, but if he is, then Spinal Tap should be nominated as well.

jethro tull should be higher up, he does a great job. If metallica is not already in they should be. alice in chains not so much, replace them with twisted sister

Weird Al definitely qualifies, and more power to him. He and his band have proven time and time again that they can keep up with the best of them! Bermuuuuuda and Jim West, FTW!!!!

I know I sound like a broken record, but when Bob Dylan even recognizes WARREN ZEVON as a songwriting equal, what other proof do the RRHOF folks need???

Cars,Rush,Parliment/Funkadelic ,SuicidalTendecies,BadBrains,B lackFlag,Germs,ButtholeSurfers ,PeterTosh,Misfts(w/Danzig),Sl ayer,TheCure,FaithNoMore,DeadK ennedys,PublicImageLTD,Bahaus/ LoveandRockets,Stormtroopers.O f.Death,Megadeth,OingoBoingo.N EXT YEAR?:PublicEnemy,Ice-T,Beasti eBoys,JanesAddiction,FishBone, MelvinsandPixies.WHAT?ICAN DREAM…..RIGHT?!?

Sorry but Alice has been more than just a ‘gimmick’ Even Dylan gave him credit for that. Tom Waits can also be seen as a ‘gimmick’ if you dont care to look any deeper

Wooowwwwwwwwwwwww……….I was thinking Lucinda William’s first album came out in 1985, I forgot her first album that came out on a tiny indie label in 1980 :O She should be at the top of the list next year, you can argue she’s the top female act in the history of R $ R….Janis sadly was lost young, Chrissie is great but not quite in Lucinda’s league. Lucinda is one of the best writers we’ve ever had, and THAT voice, powerful, aching, real. Paul Westerburg once said that the first thing he looked for when listening to a record was the voice, that he could tell if they really meant it or not. If what they were singing was from their heart or an act. Lucinda means it

*Trans – Am’s * And I forgot Public Enemy, who were like the Sex Pistols or Clash of rap, should have been in on their first year of eligibility.

You can’t beat weird al…

STRYPER!!!! They were the greatest Christian hard rock/heavy metal band of all time!!! and they hit it off great in the mainstream!!! THEY DESERVE IT!!!

I think Weird Al should definitely be on the list! He has actually made some not-so-popular bands popular just by parodying them.

How is the Stooges not on there. They practically made punk music as a genre.

Totally Weird Al!

Glad to see The Smiths and Weird Al getting respect.
Surprised to see The Cure not on the list.

ANYONE who says Weird Al doesn’t deserve to be in the Hall of Fame has never listened to his music.

I emplore all of you who doubt his musical genius to buy his forthcomming “Essentials” collection and listen to it FULLY, all 38 TRACKS. If, after all fo that, you can still HONESTLY say you don’t think he deserves to be in the hall, I will respect your opinion.

ANYONE who says that Weird Al is a gimmick, or a one hit wonder is totally missinformed and ignorant of Al’s musical career. Ask Paul McCartney, Jimmy Page, Kurt Cobain (If you could), Michael Jackson (If you could) or just about ANYONE he has parodied and they’d tell you he is a musical genius and he deserves to be in.

95% of all stars he has parodied LOVE his parody’s. Al is a really, really nice guy, has a clean image, treats the people he parody’s with respect, and has had a career longer than most musical acts!

He has had Several top 20 hits, he has had one top ten hit, and is a multi-platinum recording artist.

He has beena round for 30 years, abd has fans from Canada to New Zealand to all over europe and Asia.

Yes Al, this is your chance to shine and be enshrined!

Joan Jett, Marianne Faithfull, The Go-Gos, etc, etc…

I love Weird Al and he does deserve it. However, the Hall of Fame is seriously skewed and many amazing women are still not in there.

AC/DC

Weird Al is one of the best performers that I
have ever seen. Being from Nashville, and
raised on some of the best Rock & Roll a
person could ever experience, brings me to
ask why you haven’t inducted Weird Al in the
Rock & Roll hall of fame a long time ago.

Weird Al most definitely deserves it. As Kurt Cobain put it, they knew they made it when Weird Al asked to do a parody of their songs. Michael Jackson also recognized that Weird Al was a musical genius, let him use the Moonwalker set.

Rush definitely deserves too. I mean, come on, it’s Rush!

And for those who are against rap groups, I agree that they should stop going into rap and hip hop. However, I feel that they would be remiss to not include Beastie Boys. They are the last rap act that I think deserves to enter the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame because they’re not just a rap act. Most of their early work is punk, they’re dynamic and far different from any other group out there, and The Mix-Up shows they can still be relevant in rock.

Weird al (contrary to what most of you would like to believe) has MORE musical talent than most of the other groups up there.

Also to add the fact that he’s been around for 30+ years (i think his first real hit was 1979)

that is a lot longer than most bands/artists can say AND!!! he is still coming out with new music.

The RRHOF will be a joke to me until Wierd Al and Chicago are inducted.

Duran Duran!!! Killer dance music and awesome videos. Hell,they practically invented the modern music video!!

Weird Al has made many songs better with his parodies. I wrote & recorded a parody to one of his parodies. He entertains AND inspires.

I am so glad to see “Weird Al” on this list. Have seen him 3 times and it gets better and better each time. Oh and Anonymous, do some research before you jump to the assumption that Al is a “gimmick”. I bet he can write a SERIOUS song and it still would be 10x better than any of the new songs out there now.

I defy anyone to attend a Weird Al concert and then tell me to my face that he and his band are not worthy. They are INCREDIBLE musicians who master styles across all of music. Very few groups out there could boast the same pedigree.

As for Rush… duh. That’s a no-brainer. Rush should have been inducted years ago.

Rush should have been in there at least 5 years ago, i definitely think Weird Al deserves a fair shot for the hall of fame just cuz i think he’s a genius of satire and you must be fucking nuts if you think Alice Cooper should have been in there 10 years ago…end of story

Weird Al deserves this nomination just as much as any “serious” artist, for the simple fact that he is serious about his work. He is one of the few musicians in history to elevate novelty music to the public eye. He also produces albums for other musicians as well when he isn’t doing his own stuff.

If you need further proof, just think to the classic interview with Kurt Cobain, when he was asked how did he know that Nirvana had hit it big. His response? “When Weird Al did a parody of a Nirvana song.”

Glad The Smiths are on the list, greatly deserved.

The Pixies is also a must, they changed the landscape of music more than any other band in the last 20 years.

I throw my votes to the top two…Weird Al and Rush.

Weird Al because it is the first music I ever heard at the ripe age of three and not only has he become one of, if not, my favorite artists of all time…his music can be enjoyed by any age and there are few artists that can really apply to. Plus, as everyone else has said, he and his band can really do it all…especially live, as all ten times I have seen Al, he has played a 2 hour+ set and never even missed a beat. He’s amazing and deserves to be in there.

And when I think rock music, I think Rush. Rush is some of the best rock music to ever be produced and they still can rock it just as hard today. It’s time to put Rush in!

Weird al absolutely deserve to be in it as he is one of the most talented musician i know as hes mastered most of the music styles!

“Dr. Teeth and the Electric Mayhem”

backnote to that i meant he should have been at least 10 years ago just for clarification i’m just type deficient sometimes lol

Another Weird Al lover here. He’s the first artist i remember following as a young child, and his material has never gotten old. Even his new half album “internet leaks” is selling like hotcakes on downloading websites like itunes. He continues to outdo himself, even when people like “anonymous” say he’s old news. He is also a musical genius. Take a look at his behind the scenes video from his last album. He’s amazing.

SUPERTRAMP! Great albums, hit singles. Extremely talented but overlooked band.
Tull – in
Television – in
Moody Blues – in
Chicago – in (and I’m not that big of a fan)
Talking Heads – already in

-Rush was Three dudes! That kicks ass!
-Who doesn’t own a rando Weird Al album. I believe i own “Running with Scissors”.
-Phil Collins sucks, but that is my opinion
What about Heart? The already up in that piece? Pat Benetar also rocks the lobster.

Who are the New York Dolls?!? MC5 at least sounds familiar. All the others I’ve heard of and enjoy. The Primo choice for me is the Master! WEIRD AL! I’ve been a fan since Another One Rides The Bus! I even have the Album (that’s pre CD technology for you youngsters), his first 5 RECORDS!!

Weird Al definitely deserves to be there!! He is a genius!

weird al is brilliant at parody and at original songs. my vote goes for him.

“Weird Al” Yankovic is THE most overlooked and underappreciated MUSICIAN out there.
His, and his band’s, ability to capture the precise sound and technicality of so many bands, artist and music styles are uncomparable, as is his ability to write such clever lyrics. Who else can do what he does as brilliantly and consistently as he does?
Those who aren’t very familiar with his work see him as a gimmicky “parody” artist, which is a hugely inaccurate assessment.
His original songs far outnumber his parodies (even though it’s the parodies that made him famous).
How can someone pull off doing what he has been doing for almost 30 years, and consistently keeping his finger on the pulse of what is going on in the music world and keep entertaining the fans for so long.
Let’s face it: there are so many artists who sometimes take theirselves TOO seriously, just as the world does. “Weird Al” holds up the mirror to pop culture and says “This is you!”, while all the while willing and welcoming the label as ‘weird’. To be the clown, so they don’t have to. So Al is, in a way, the “Clown Messiah” of the music world.
His talents are appreciated by so many in the rock world, and the music world across the board.

Yes, someone actually said Jethro Tull deserves to be in, HE does a good job. You’ve got musical taste, but no credit for musical history. Jethro Tull’s the band, Ian Anderson’s the lead singer. And no, it’s not a gimmick, he can actually play the flute as well as several other instruments. It’s talent, not gimmick.

The fact that RUSH have never even been nominated proves the the “hall of fame” is a joke! Say what you want about the band but each member has been a huge influence on many artists and that alone should have given them a spot the first year of eligibility.

Jann wenner is a douche taco

@Anonymous

Gimmicks are no substitute for talent? Are you kidding me? Weird Al is THE most talented musician on the planet today. He’s done rap, rock, R&B, metal, alternative, polka, EVERYTHING. That’s talent. For the last THIRTY YEARS Weird Al Yankovic has kept up with whatever brand of music was popular, be it new wave in the 80’s, alternative in the 90’s or rap/R&B in the 00’s. If that’s not talent, I don’t know what is.

Umm…how about The Monkees? They completely revolutionized the merchandising/marketing facets of popular music back in the ’60s (nevermind that they outsold the Beatles and Rolling Stones combined at one point). And individual members have gone on to make incredible contributions to music; Michael Nesmith was one of the founders of MTV (when it still played music, of course), and his solo music is phenomenal. Stop overlooking the Monkees, dangit.

Rush, Yes, Pat Benatar, Heart, Joan Jett, Lou Reed, Chicago, Heart and ELO are all worthy, as is Bernie Taupin as a songwriter. If the Hall wants to include all genres, they should include ALL genres. They’ve already got pop, rock, metal, folk and rap in there. Rush and Yes represent the very best of the progressive acts. Pat Benatar, Joan Jett and Heart represent the best female rockers of the 70’s and 80’s. Chicago and ELO represent the more stylized and orchestrated groups. And Lou Reed… is a rock and roll poet. If Jethro Tull and the Cars were inducted, I wouldn’t mind. And you have to have some punk besides the Clash; maybe X or the Misfits.

Wait a second. Did I read that Jethro Tull were only popular because of a gimmick? Umm. What?

Other than that, I’d be fine with any of them. They’ve all added to music in their own special way. Weird Al included.

Don’t hate because he makes some silly jokes in his song. Frank Zappa did the same, but he’s one of the greatest musicians of all time.

How is Cheap Trick still not on that list?!?!?!

Blows my mind considering some of the other stuff already in the hof.

I would vote Alice Cooper and Rush for sure this year

I have to agree with the other Weird Al fans. He has had a longer, more successful career than, ironically, any of the acts he has parodied. Madonna was smart to actually request a parody of “Like a Virgin.” She knew you’re nobody in music until Weird Al “does” you. And his concerts really rock! Besides the aforementioned costume changes, mock interviews, and genre shifts, the man puts one foot behind his head and hops up and down on the other one, WHILE playing the accordion! How much more does he have to do? What will it take to impress the HOF? Please give the man the credit he deserves.

I agree with the entire list in the article and many additional acts listed in the comments but everyone’s overlooking someone:

Todd freakin’ Rundgren!

The man has had MANY Top 40 hits, has numerous classic albums, a long fruitful career, has produced many albums for other artists, is skilled enough as a writer and performer to create many albums completely solo (like Zappa, Stevie Wonder, Prince, and Trent Reznor, though the latter is not yet elligable). To the person who mentioned Meat Loaf: Rundgren not only produced that album, but played almost every guitar part on it. That album wouldn’t exist if not for him. I may be mistaken, but I think he produced both of the New York Dolls’ albums as well.

It’s a crime that he hasn’t been an inductee for years now.

One more vote for Weird Al! What the hell, make that two.

Anyone BUT the Beastie Boys! I mean, COME ON! They were subsidized by their rich parents who had connections just to see how far their connections could get them. They got air play on the radio because their connections had bug clout. All their songs sound the same, varying about 3 notes. Even for “rap” that’s lame. Whiny, screechy vocals are a bust. Only thing good about them is DJ Mike.

Weird Al’s music catapults me into rock out mode. He has wisdom, talent, longevity and is great in concert as many have attested. Do not write off this man.

Also, Warren Zevon is seriously overlooked. He was a brilliant songwriter and, frankly, a total badass. No one was more rock and roll than Zevon.

I’m surprised Red Hot Chili Peppers isn’t on that list. This was the first year they were eligible (self-titled album was released in 1984), but the big one was Metallica.

And Kanye should never be inducted, and I will cry if he is AND it is before Dr. Dre.

i saw where someone said al and cooper deserve nothing because gimmicks are not talent
those have more talent than you. Al doesnt just do parodies he does originals too….
and cooper is a fantastic composer, he has some strange songs, but he has great talent

A FRIKEN FLOCK OF SEAGULLS

Yes should be there.They are great musicians,and are always overlooked.First rate musicianship.

The clown that said, “Gimmicks are no substitute for talent” needs to have his ears cleaned.Jethro Tull,and Weird Al,and Alice Cooper are very talented.That person probably thinks Britney Spears is a great singer.

While I agree with the anonymous poster who said that “Gimmicks are no substitute for talent,” I submit that he fails to recognize the enormous talent that “Weird Al” has. The man has genuine ability as a singer, musician, and songwriter. The fact that he chooses to employ these talents in the genre of satire is irrelevant; there’s no question that he could have made a name for himself as, say, a ska artist had he aimed himself in that direction.

Madonna is on the list.

Madonna is in the ROCK AND ROLL hall of fame.

Therefore it has zero credibility in my eyes. Zero.

Stevie Ray Vaughan!!

Yep, Mr Yankovic does deserve to be in the HoF. He has, single-handedly, kept the fine art of parody in the public eye. Vocally, he can sound like many of the artists he emulates (of course with some nasal shrill to it). Musically, his band is as good as any great cover band can be with Jon “Bermuda” Schwartz as his long-time cronie.
His videos and parodies have made many of the bands he honored successful, and even Kurt Cobain said he felt like Nirvana had “made it” when “Smells Like Nirvana” came out.
To all haters: keep hatin’. It only makes the case for “Weird” Al Yankovic that much stronger…

…oh, and Beyonce’ made the greatest video ever.

Yes (Jon Anderson, Chris Squire, Steve Howe, Alan White, Rick Wakeman)

Let’s face it. We are beginning to scrape the bottom of the barrel. There’s a few good ones left, but in a few years we will be discussing if Winger or White Snake should be inducted.

Wierd Al? You’ve got to be flipping kidding me! RS readers, you are the lamest people on the planet.

weird ‘al’ is WAY more talent than gimmick.

Anyone who doubts that Rush should be in the R&RHOF should have their head examined. It’s one thing to not like their music, but you cannot deny that Rush is one of the all-time greats through their sales and their influence on other musicians.

The Osmond Brothers!

Weird AL should be on the list because he is a good musician no matter what all the dee dee dee here have to say, I mean have you tried to play an accordion?

Also, other artist have been quoted as saying things like “I know I made it when I was parodied by Weird Al”

And another thing, Rush kicks ass and should be in the hall of fame all ready.

The Guess Who, Chicago and NRBQ. I guess I’d also vote for Weird Al, Captain Beefheart and Tom Waits.

I, too, vote for Weird Al. Good parody is frustratingly hard to produce and fine. No one nails it like him. The only sad thing is that there are not enough iconic songs to parody anymore.

Al not only writes his own songs (including originals), but he’s a darn good entertainer and singer, too! I can’t think of anyone who can pretty much sing any genre or his band PLAY any kind of song like that.

I also vote for Pat Benatar. How can she be overlooked?

Not surprised … Al TOTALLY deserves it.

Weird Al DEFINITELY deserves it. Not everyone can do what he does, and many people don’t realize that he does MUCH more than just make fun of other people’s songs. Yes, he’s crazy, yes, his songs are WEIRD, but that’s what makes him unique. If he sounded just like everyone else like most typical rock artists, I’d say no. But he has done so much to deserve it.

Kraftwerk!

For the Rock hall to omit the progressive bands is a crime!The Moodys should have been there years ago along with Yes.How about Emerson,Lake and Palmer?

Zappa made it (I hope), therefore Weird Al qualifies. And why Rush isn’t in there yet is beyond me.

Umm…souljaboytellem. duh.

Weird Al

Another vote for Al.

Spinal Tap in no way qualifies though.

Been a Weird Al fan since before he had a record contract. Seen him in concert numerous times, in two different countries. Have all the albums, videos, etc., in multiple formats.

It’s time, people. It’s time.

I vote for Al. He is definitely talented enough to make the HOF.

No Chicago? Hello??? Their influence on getting horns off of AM radio and onto FM cannot be missed.

Plus, their success speaks for itself.

traffic needs to be there i think steve winwood is in w blind faith not sure but traffice as a group needs to be in there

Weird Al all the way, baby!

A rock hall of fame without Warren Zevon is a joke. BTW, ever try to find out who votes perfomers in? There’s no actual criteria, such as are set for other awards, halls of fame, etc. It’s all hidden. The Broadway show “Jersey Boys” has one of the Four Seasons saying that unlike the Oscars or Emmys, being elected to the HoF can’t be bought — it’s “from the people.” An out-and-out lie. It’s NOT from the people, and if it’s so honest, why do they refuse to identify the voters?

Weird Al, definitely belongs.
MC5, sure.
New York Dolls as well.
Beastie Boys deserve it too.
And Public Enemy should definitely go in as soon as eligible. They took what was considered a fad, rap, and like punk and reggae before, made it a portal to frustration and understanding of anger. For a brief run in the late ’80s and early ’90s, they were the only band that mattered. To not have them in is a disgrace. But I’m probably one of the few who feels rap should be included in the Hall. Rock keeps evolving. It evolved from R&B to what it is now, and a lot of rappers took elements from rock to be where they are now.

weird al!!!!!!!!

weird al, alice cooper, and sonic youth should get it, no-one else

Definetly Rush and Weird Al. Both have been doing their rock n’ roll thing for years (longer than some of this year’s nominees) and have incredible record sales and loyal fan bases. Also, and this is only an opinion, we’re talking the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, not the Hip-Hop or Rap Hall of Fame. Stick to the title, folks. No disrespect to anyone, just saying that maybe there should be an off-shoot to the RNRHOF for the other acts that don’t categorically fit in to Rock n’ Roll.

I love Weird Al, and definitely think he belongs there! His shows are great, his band is great, and his songs are fantastic. As others have said, many are better than the original songs!
I also think The Moody Blues should have went in a long, long time ago!
As to those who say that rap artists and others don’t belong, there are a lot of inductees who don’t qualify as “pure” rock artists, but who were acknowledged influences to many others.

Stevie Ray Vaughn… and yes Weird Al should be in too!

Weird Al definitely… but I also think Devo, The Dickies, and the Beastie Boys all deserve to be in R&RHoF

Funny………no mention of RICK DERRINGER! Who!!? The man who has nearly touch every single person on this earth with some of the most influential music of mondern day rock and roll. Rick is the one who founded Weird Al and made him famous, among others. Rick Derringer IS in my opinion the most overlooked rock star of all time and really warrants a spot in the HOF before anyone. Danny Johnson of Steppen Wolf is another fine example of Rick’s discoveries. Rick found him when Danny was 18. Cyndi Lauper is another. He is the father of shredding and has a discography to back it. go to rickderringer.com and get the facts.

Todd Rundgren.

Slayer.

End of.

STEVIE RAY VAUGHAN and Double Trouble.

Alice Cooper
The Cars
Steve Miller Band
Rush

yes I’m all for “Weird Al” but why isn’t Iron Maiden on this list? and I know there “progressive metal” but metal stemmed from rock. and they’ve been at it for years. they should be on this list right under “Weird Al”

weird al is flippin awesome come on people!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! ! he is a legend!!! like if you ask people if they know what a random jethro tull song is (take your pick) they might know about it, but if you ask somebody if they’ve heard, say, white and nerdy, EVERYBODY knows what that is!!!!

Sparks!

I give up. If there are soo many bands/artists from the era before I was born (60s & much of the 70s till 1978) that are still not in the Hall, forget it. Its not a true Hall of Fame in my terms.

& my Favorite Bands that are eligible: Depeche Mode, The Cure, New Order/Joy Division, The Smiths, MC5 if they are nominated, it’ll probably will take years for them to even get on this rare list & for all the other bands that everyone thinks should be in the Hall already.

& this list will keep growing & growing as time goes on.

Wierd Al sucks and so does anyone who thinks he ought to be in. Nothing original? You pay admission to get into the RnR Hall.

Weird Al, and his band, deserve recognition for their contribution to the musical scene that has lasted well into 30 years. He not only writes original lyrics to existing music, but does write his own original music and includes it in his albums and live performances.

Kudos to this nod from the public at large, and i hope it goes through. A star on the hollywood walk of fame should also be considered.

Absolutely, without a doubt: Weird Al and his band

It’s about time Dick Dale got some recognition.

Where exactly was this poll that was conducted? Could someone please direct me to it? I’m always reading results of Rolling Stone polls, without even reading anything about them anywhere in the magazine or online being conducted!!

WEIRD AL! <3

A definite yes for Weird Al – his musical talents are overlooked because of the humor.

Remember The Electric Light Orchestra,There from the real rock era!!!!!!!

That the Moody Blues aren’t in the hall is a travesty and an example of little the RnRHofF has to do with worthy artists.

It’s all a popularity contest. If the chairman doesn’t like an artist, they’ll never get in no matter what. It’s a shame.

I’m all for Weird Al getting in, but it will never happen.

The Guess Who….These Eyes, Undun, American Woman, No time, Clap for the Wolfman, Laughing, No sugar tonight/New Mother Nature, Shakin’ all over, Bus rider, Share the land, Hand me down world…do I need to go on? Is this ENOUGH evidence??

Alice Cooper is WAY overdue. And Weird Al deserves the honor more than many who have already been inducted. What really makes them both stand out is the intelligence and wit in their compositions. Anyone who thinks they are just gimmicks either hasn’t ever actually listened or doesn’t have the mental acuity to understand what they heard.

Yes Al! You’ve been trying for this for ages! You have serious talent, dear! How exciting! Good luck Al!

Whoever said Jethro Tull was a “gimmick” band ought to go back and listen to the first 5-6 Tull releases. And while Alice Cooper may be theatrical, there is no gimmick in the music.

While we’re at it, how is it possible that Los Lobos, Deep Purple and the Moody Blues aren’t already in there? The Hall of Fame has become a joke.

And while I firmly believe that Tom Waits is one of the single finest songwriters ever, he has no more business in the HOF than Madonna.

To the one who said “I’m all for Weird Al getting in, but it will never happen”, consider this:

People said he would never get a record deal.
People said he’d never sell many albums.
People said he wouldn’t last.
People said his fans would outgrow him, that he’d fade out with the 80’s because he wouldn’t be able to keep in touch with the ever changing music and pop culture.

Here we are, 30 years into his career.

“Weird Al” Yankovic has proven so many people wrong over the years.
Tell me that’s not the bottom line of Rock and Roll.
Hall of Fame is Al’s.

Oh, Iron Maiden, Rush and Alice Cooper also deserve it.

Weird Al definitely! I’ve been listening to his talent ever since I can remember.

WEIRD AL FTW!!!!!

Definitely Al. He’s been going strong for thirty years. His band is made up of– seriously– some of the best musicians out there. Al and his band have played and satired every style of music imaginable. He is a pop culture icon, -and- talented. I know that it is very easy to pass him off as a novelty act if one isn’t very familiar with all of his music.

But my vote goes for Mr. Al Yankovic.

Little Antony and the Imperials

Definitely “Weird Al”, my second or thirds out of that list would probably be Moody Blues and Alice Cooper

Phil Ochs
Link Wray
Neil Diamond
Tommy James & the Shondells
John Fogerty
The Flying Burrito Brothers

A few I forgot:

Mitch Ryder
Charlie Feathers
Question Mark and the Mysterians
Deep Purple
John Mayall’s Bluesbreakers
The Jeff Beck Group
Moby Grape
Steve Miller Band

i’m a professional musician and i’ve seen literally thousands of live performances. weird al yankovic ranks among the very top rock n roll shows i’ve ever seen. i gotta admit, the man brings it. he deserves enshrinement absolutely.

anyone who would write him off as a lame novelty act … go see him perform. you will have a blast. and you’ll beforced to admit he and his band really do rock.

I think the real proof that Weird Al belongs is when other artists often comment: “I didn’t know I finally made it, until Weird Al made a parody of me.”

i cant believe someone said rush doesn’t deserve it. are you serious?
probably the most talented drummer ever in neil peart, an amazingly talent bassist/drummer in geddy lee, and alex lifeson is pretty damn good himself, even though he never gets any credit cause of the other two.

BON JOVI
PAT BENATAR
RUSH

All worthy and deserving. Their time has come.

Weird Al deserves to be in as much as anyone else. His body of work provides the evidence.

Com’on Guys Weird Al Has Been Around For A Long Time He Has Made Mind-Blowing Albums And An Amazing Film. Com’on This Guy Has Wanted This For A Long Long Time Give It To Him For His 50th Birthday Present

There is no logical reason that Cheap Trick is not in nor has been nominated for the HOF. This is a band who influenced new wave bands, power pop bands, hard rock band and grunge bands.

Kurt Cobain once named Cheap Trick and The Knack as two of his greatest influences.

Robin Zander may very well be the greatest rock and roll singer of all time; all original members are still together and tour non-stop, and they are still incredibly vital.

Robin and Rick performed on John Lennon’s records, the band has toured with groups spanning a million genres and they are still producing new material.

Until Cheap Trick is recognized, the R&R HOF will be nothing but a sham.

Yay for Weird Al! He TOTALLY should be in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame! The Moody Blues, Alice Cooper, and Deep Purple should be as well.

Operation Ivy. Underground legends that started a new genre (ska-punk)

To those who say Weird Al is gimmicky and untalented – name me one other artist who has songs in every musical genre known to mankind.

Anyone that doesn’t think that Weird Al is a musical genius needs to go to youtube and watch “Weird Al” Yankovic – Al in the Studio — 9 minutes of home movie about the making of his last album. THAT demonstrates his real musical talent!

I worked at a club that Weird Al played at on his first few tours.
Five years ago, I wrote to Al’s drummer as to whether he realized at the time that Weird Al was eligible for the RNRHOF.
He emailed back that he didn’t think that those voting for the HOF are looking to include musicians like Weird Al.

Many artists trying to get into the RNRHOF were very influential but their style may be unpopular with those voting.
Progressive rock is not represented.
Badfinger helped define Power Pop which many bands like The Knack, The Cars and Cheap Trick play.
It looks like a conflict of interest for RNRHOF founder Jann Wenner to be in the hall as a non-performer.

Madonna recognized that the nomination process is flawed and had Iggy Pop and the Stooges perform covers of her songs at her induction ceremony.

It’s about damn time Weird Al’s in. The man’s amazing, and a musical genius.

RRHOF seems to snub Canadians.

Rush (Progressive rock is not represented in general )
Triumph
Bryan Adams
Loverboy
The Guess Who
Trooper
April Wine
Gordon Lightfoot
Tom Cochrane (Red Rider)
BTO
Saga
Anne Murray (Better than Rap)
Celine Dion (love or hate 200+ million $ale$!)

Anybody who says Rush doesn’t deserve to be in the hall is unaware of how great they are. Geddy Lee, Alex Lifeson, and Neil Peart are the three greatest musicians ever, and whats a “Rock and Roll Hall of Fame” without rock’s most talented band?

If you didn’t realize, Weird Al doesn’t only do parodies.

I agree with Murph2112. Rush rocks!

BTW – Is Dio in there yet?

A hall of fame with Madonna, but without Rush, is no hall of fame. As a fan, I hope they don’t get in. It would be a step down.

Styx, Jethro Tull, The Cars, The Guess Who, ELO, these should all be no brainers. Not that it really matters.

-”Gimmicks are no substitute for talent.” – said by “Anonymous”. Very Naive and Ignorant statement considering Weird Al’s band is one of the best because they have to duplicate everyone else’s music and do it well. Also Al himself is proficient on Keyboards and his accordion as well as song writer and producer. No talent my A$$! Think before you post. And stop being so cynical on something you know nothing about. Peace!

Here’s yet another bouquet for my all time favorite, Weird Al. I agree with many of the comments here.. He’s a showman, rock accordion virtuoso, and utterly unique. His craftsmanship is outstanding and and his brilliance amazing! Don’t miss the chance to see him in concert, or at least check out the “Weird Al Live” DVD. Enormously multi talented, and a really nice guy too. Al and his band deserve this!

It`s not a shock weird al yankovic should be in the hall of fame!I mean he`s been around ever since my mom was little and my Uncle!I`m just happy and proud of Alfred M. Yankovic as not gave up on me!Look at him my role model like him never give up and keep trying and trying!

Weird Al Rocks!!!! He NEEDS to be in the HALL OF FAME! He is the Prince of Parodies!!!

It`s not a shock weird al yankovic should be in the hall of fame!I mean he`s been around ever since my mom was little and my Uncle!I`m just happy and proud of Alfred M. Yankovic!Look at him my role model like him never give up and keep trying and trying!

Ministry all the way! And The Residents.

But the again, being inducted doesn’t mean crap, and bands are better off not being in there.

I too definitely agree that “Weird Al” Yankovic belongs in the Hall of Fame. His musical talents are as good as you can find in anyone (singing, songwriting, accordion-playing, and producing), and they show in all the songs he performs.

I have all of this albums, and I can tell that there is not one song that he just slapped onto an album as “filler” (like so many artists have done); he put his heart and dedication into composing and recording absolutely everything. Furthermore, as others have mentioned, he has remained both active and popular for 30 years now, an achievement that very few have matched.

Many of the artists he parodied over the years disappeared from the music scene after only one or two albums (usually because they failed to capture the listeners’ imaginations and became too predictable), but Al has ensured his longevity by serving a bundle of well-crafted musical compositions and priceless humor with each new album. And if he’s willing to continue his work, I bet he can remain popular for another 30 years.

“Weird Al” absolutely deserves to be there! He’s had a successful career, sings with a wider range of songs and styles than any other artist, and is a talented musician, songwriter and video director to boot. Al rocks!

Let’s remember, it’s a Rock and Roll ‘Hall of Fame,’ and not a Rock and Roll ‘Elite Artists Only Club.’ To say artists like ‘Weird Al’ or Bon Jovi don’t deserve a spot is to deny that these artists have made Rock and Roll history. Artists like these have introduced legions of young people to rock, who maybe then move on to Rush, MC5, and whatnot. I’m not saying that those latter bands don’t deserve the honor, just that the popular artists who some may not view as deep or talented deserve to be in the hall of fame as well.

Jethro Tull is not a “gimmick.” One listen to Aqualung or Thick as a Brick should prove that to anyone with ears.

Thank You Scottidog for your post. It is obvious that some people are not familiar with Weird Al’s variety of talents.

scottidog | 9/28/2009, 4:32 pm EST

Dear Anonymous Poster:

“Gimmicks are no substitute for talent.”

Weird Al is hardly a gimmick or a one hit wonder. He qualifies under the Rock Hall guidelines. He’s had a career that has outlasted many of those he’s parodied. He writes ALL of his own songs, both parodies and originals.

He’s not only funny, but musically talented as well.

And you, Anonymous Poster, are an idiot.

I must admit I started listening to Weird Al becase of my sons, but I soon learned of his talent by listen to ALL of his music. A few years ago I went with my one Son to a concert of his and I was amazed again at his talent even more then what you see on video or hear on his CDs. I am one who has seen some of the greatest in concert, including Michael Jackson, Prince, Madonna, David Bowie, Queen, & was at Live Aid to name just a few. W Al is totally talented and needs to be in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

Anybody who Bod Dylan considers to be “an under-rated songwriter” obviously has talent.

When having a future HOF member say that the moment when they knew they had made it was when an artist had covered their song clearly has an impact on the music industry.

Also, both Alice Cooper and Weird Al helped push their genres into the main stream and put on some of the best damn concerts of any artist touring today.

be nice for weird al. Rush certainly. not enough canadian bands are in the hall of fame.

but YES is long overdue, been active over 40 years and are a giant of their genre

Most deserved by all means!A very gifted man of talents for sure!! and a great person and family man***

WHOOOOO HOOOOOO!!!!!!! GO AL!!!! though i wonder who will attempt to fill your shoes after you retire… you’re a hard act to follow ^_^

Southside Johnny……Can still deliver a 2 1/2 hour live show filled with classics (his own and some phenomenal covers) as well as songs that he has written himself! Whether it’s a ballad, rock, or the blues….there’s passion and energy that can’t be beat!

This is a bit off topic (just a little), but Al also does not have a star on the Hollywood walk of Fame. Odd.

But anyhow, Weird Al, The Cars, Rush, Neil Diamond, The Cure, Alice Cooper, etc. Get them in there!

Sure Weird Al’s got talent, but more than that, he’s the only guy that has been able to bring humor/parody to the rock n roll/pop circle and actually be successful with it. Hugely successful. How many comedy-focused musicians are able to break into the top 10 on the Billboard charts? Only Al. Plus, other artists love him.

Prog Rock should totally get recognized. The Hall might actually gain some musical legitimacy then. Go Rush & Dream Theater! (Dream Theater might not be eligible yet) Also, it’s pretty unthinkable that Cheap Trick isn’t in it.

Why can’t people get over that stupid and totally false misconception that just because Alice Cooper has an entertaining stage presentation he can’t have good songs? Guess who said “I think he’s one of the most underrated lyricists of today’s music” about him? Anyone? Bob Dylan! Alice is nowhere short of talent, both musicwise and as a showman. One of rock’s true innovators. If there’s any justice, he should get in there before Kiss.

AL. (and Rush)

Bon Jovi!!!!!

I know I’m late to the party but here’s my two cents as to a few who should get in.

Weird Al for being both a a music and comic genius.

Slayer for being more metal than Metallica.

The Toasters for bringing ska to the US.

Minor Threat for creating a whole subgenre of punk and a whole subculture at the same time.

Tom Waits for being Tom Waits.

Fishbone for mixing everything up into a great combo of music.

Violent Femmes for their great music too.

I’d say Rush even though I hate them.

I’d also add Scott Joplin to the list of early influences.

I hate Rush, they’re Canadians, and Weird Al’s song, Canadian Idiot, shows how bad Canadians (like Rush) are. Plus, I hadn’t even know that any Rush existed until I read this article. Everyones heard of Al. GO AL!!!

P.S.
ILikeAmericanMusic is a moron, Metallica kicks Slayers ASS

Weird al Is the best he totally deserves it as much and Ndamukong Suh should get the Heisman SO does rush they kick ass