Halt Hall Inductions

So, the 25th Annual Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony was the other day. Here are the newest members:

ABBA
Genesis
The Hollies
Jimmy Cliff
The Stooges

We are told by the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Foundation that one of its "many functions is to recognize the contributions of those who have had a significant impact on the evolution, development and perpetuation of rock and roll." Here is the process: "The Foundation's nominating committee, composed of rock and roll historians, selects nominees each year in the Performer category. Ballots are then sent to an international voting body of more than 500 rock experts. Those performers who receive the highest number of votes - and more than 50 percent of the vote - are inducted."

Now, the Hollies had a handful of good tunes, and I understand the significance of the Stooges, but this year's group, in general, only solidifies a stance I have had for the past few years that we could use a moratorium on inductees. I love rock and roll, but most of the recent inductees don't speak to my tastes. I mean, c'mon rock historians... Genesis? Really? Great artists will continue to come out of nowhere and make their marks but, after 25 years of inductions, it's time to take a little rest and let the industry catch up with the next generation of geniuses. If not a break, then at least dig a little deeper into sub-genres like jangle pop, new wave, cowpunk or a host of others. Am I alone here? Listen to "I Can't Dance" or this one below and tell me with a straight face these guys are at the top of their field. Sorry to pick on Genesis. They are just the latest travesty.



Elvis Costello and Jimmy Cliff - Seven Day Weekend (mp3)
-- This song is a bonus track from the Ryko version of Elvis Costello & the Attractions' album 'Blood and Chocolate.' It was initially recorded for the soundtrack to the film 'Club Paradise.' It also appeared on the Costello compilation 'Out Of Our Idiot.'