The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame released its list of nominees to the usual criticisms, mainly that half of the acts have little if any connection to the genre of music in the institution’s name. As Paste magazine reported, the list comprises
Sade, Phil Collins, Oasis, The Black Crowes, Joy Division and New Order, Mariah Carey, Iron Maiden, and Billy Idol, all of whom have appeared on previous ballots. This year’s crop of first-time nominees includes INXS, Jeff Buckley, Lauryn Hill, Luther Vandross, Wu-Tang Clan, Melissa Etheridge, New Edition, Shakira, and, of course, P!NK.
By my count, that’s eight of the 17 that could be considered rock acts, while dozens of actual rock acts that made a mark on the genre are ignored. Billboard posted a morning line of each act’s odds of enshrinement, ranging from 8-1 for Pink and New Edition to even money for Oasis and Phil Collins.
Collins seems to have the best chance. He’s already in as a member of Genesis, and the days when he was considered the antithesis of cool have faded. His health-related retirement gives the industry a chance to honor the 75-year-old before it’s too late.
“I Don’t Care Anymore” was released on his second solo album, 1982’s “Hello I Must Be Going.” It only made it to No. 39 on the Hot 100 despite its use in “Miami Vice,” which made frequent use of Collins’ music. The title is exactly what acts snubbed by the Hall always say about the institution.
