It’s not a surprise, but Pat Benatar has knocked down a peg in the fan vote for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Dave Matthews Band has pulled out in front with over 503,000 votes. Benatar is runner up with 451,000 fans.
Each of them will wind up being inducted and deservedly so. Benatar was over looked for far too long. Matthews’ influence and his whole life in the music world make him a perfect candidate.
The Doobie Brothers, who should also get in without trouble, are at number three.
But numbers four and five, I think, should be chosen by the Rock Hall voters. The fans have Judas Priest and Soundgarden in those positions. But it’s high time the MC5 got in. This is getting ridiculous. And Rufus featuring Chaka Khan, or rather Chaka Khan featuring Rufus, have waited way too long.
Additionally, the RRHOF would be smart to finally name Billy Preston in the Side Man category. The Fifth Beatle, the only artist ever to join the Beatles as a credited artist on a record (“Get Back”), Preston has to be included this year. After all, this year’s ceremony in Cleveland will coincide with the 50th anniversary of “Let it Be.”
In that regard, it would be swell to see a special award this year to a producer. I’m thinking Richard Perry, who was the most successful producer of the 70s and 80s, even into the aughts. His recording artists include Carly Simon, Rod Stewart, Ringo Starr, Leo Sayer, The Pointer Sisters, and so on. What a resume!
John Sykes, our nation turns its lonely eyes to you.
