The list of nominees for induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame class of ’22 include many who’ve been overlooked in the past.
That list starts with Carly Simon, who should’ve been in a long time ago. Simon is one of the holy trinity of female superstar singer songwriters that also includes Joni Mitchell and Carole King. Carly’s hits include “You’re So Vain,” “Nobody Does it Better,” and “Coming Around Again.” She won an Oscar for “Let the River Run” from “Working Girl.” It’s absolutely ridiculous that such an influential and successful performer isn’t in the Rock Hall. Let’s hope this year changes that.
New to the nominees list is Eminem. He’ll likely get in on the first ballot.
The Eurythmics are on the list. Annie Lennox and Dave Stewart should be a no brainer. Also up from this era, Duran Duran. It’s going to one or the other. I say Eurythmics.
Pop superstar Lionel Richie, who has nothing to do with rock and roll, may also enjoy an easy time of it. He’s very popular and has lots of hits. But rock? Doesn’t matter.
Pat Benatar, Dionne Warwick, Dolly Parton, the MC5, and the New York Dolls have all been on the list in the past but didn’t make it. Benatar is actually a rock act. Dionne is pop R&B and has influenced so many singers and performers. Dolly is beloved but she is country.
UK performer Kate Bush, devoid of US hits, is a dark horse candidate. Others on the list include Fela Kuti, Rage Against the Machine, Devo, Beck, A Tribe Called Quest, Judas Priest.
The final list of nominees comes in May. Here’s one of my Carly faves. She set the standard for cool, ironic lyrics.
The #RockHall2022 Nominees are up and the Fan Vote is now open. Vote daily at https://t.co/keewGnGnnD pic.twitter.com/zrI7GejV8v
— Rock Hall (@rockhall) February 2, 2022
