Rock Hall Nominees

If it involves music, I have an opinion. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame released its list of nominees for the 2008 class.

They are:

  • Madonna
  • John Mellencamp
  • Beastie Boys
  • Donna Summer
  • Chic
  • Afrika Bambaataa
  • Leonard Cohen
  • The Dave Clark Five
  • The Ventures

The top five vote getters get induction. There’s little chance Madonna will get passed up. Mellencamp has the same chances. I’d like to see The Dave Clark Five and The Ventures get the nod. The Ventures defined surf music and made a name for themselves without any vocals. I defy anyone to listen to “Because” by the Dave Clark Five and not love it. Their music ranges from the slow harmonic love ballad to the rowdy “Can’t You See That She’s Mine”.

British groups like the DC5 have a place in the Rock Hall but many of them still haven’t gotten the nomination, let alone the induction. How about the Moody Blues. I’m not a huge fan but they certainly have left their mark on rock and roll.

Some 500 musicians, industry professionals and journalists vote on the inductions. The ceremony will be held in New York City again. Not in Cleveland which is something that needs to change. If Cleveland’s good enough to have the Rock Hall, it’s good enough for the induction ceremony. ’nuff said!