Friday, December 29, 2023

2024 Nominee Predictions

 


Sorry no newly-eligible picks this time. Hoping for a Heinz 57 ballot.

-Never before nominated-

BRYAN ADAMS - I guess you can say tis is my "left field pick", as for whatever reason, every time a veteran artist puts on a huge tour (usually with Joan Jett as the opener), their chances of getting in the Rock Hall are pretty big. Adams hasn't been on anyone's radar - still, he should be remembered for his long career that seemingly stopped at the turn of the millennium. Or that he became the next Kenny Loggins (the soundtrack king). I'm aware he made some offensive comments during 2020 but fans still showed up to his arena shows in 2023.

JIMMY BUFFETT - In 2023 the death fairy unfortunately struck many times, with musicians from the 50s, 60s and 70s passing away, seemingly more frequent than ever. Jimmy Buffett will arguably be the notable one that both the R&R and Country HOFs may consider inducting soon. Part of me also sees that Buffett may get pushed to a side category like Musical Excellence, but I hope that does not happen.

TRACY CHAPMAN - I'll "give you one (obvious) reason" I'm putting Ms. Chapman on my list - and that of course is the huge success of Luke Comb's version of "Fast Car" in 2023. However, I feel Tracy didn't really receive a lot of attention despite of that. Either way she still remains musically active. Some may argue she doesn't have a HOF-worthy career, but the NomCom and voters can be the judge of that.

COLDPLAY - Technically they were eligible for the first time in 2023, despite them being international superstars. Coldplay has several hits and million-selling, award-winning albums under their belt, plus high-grossing worldwide tours that I'm very surprised they haven't really been on anyone's radar, or so it seems. They even have their Hall of Fame indicators scorecard nearly filled out on their FRL page! Although I will be frank, even if they do get nominated - I don't see them getting in on their first try. Hope I'm wrong

KOOL AND THE GANG

HUEY LEWIS AND THE NEWS - 80s icons seem to be coming back, here and there, and Lewis has made appearances all over, thanks mostly due to his Back to the Future fame. He may not be able to play again, but I'm sure he'll make a great presence at the induction ceremony if/when his moment happens.

ALANIS MORISSETTE - I recently watched her HBO doc which came out in 2021, and then I find out the album it's based on is now a musical. Despite of her remarks about the Rock Hall in 2022, she may have a change of heart

OUTKAST - Putting a rap/hip-hop artist on here is always a challenge. I could have put Salt 'n Pepa or Queen Latifah (who recently was a Kennedy Center honoree), or an act that has made ballot appearances (Tribe, Eric B/Rakim, De La Soul). Instead, I'm going to keep adding the Atlanta duo until they finally get on the board. I'm well aware that they haven't been active in almost a decade since their "festivals-only" tour, but hey, I'm sure they'll put on quite a performance once they get their Rock Hall due.

-Previously nominated-

BECK - Yes, Beck, is still not in the Rock Hall. Then again neither is Weezer, the DMB...

DEVO - Q: Will the NomCom, just by coincidence, put them on the ballot, so they can be inducted in Cleveland in '24? A: I think so!

CYNDI LAUPER - She fell short but at this point it's not if but when and her support is strong. I'm sure either way, she is ready to perform at the ceremony when her time comes. 

NEW YORK DOLLS

SOUNDGARDEN - It's still a mystery why these guys aren't in. With Rage's recent induction, the path should somewhat be clear for Cornell & company to finally get their due.

DIONNE WARWICK - I'm at the point where I'm putting her name down until she gets inducted. She hasn't really posted any real tweets lately, but her presence still shows in music. If you keep up with today's music, you'll know that Doja Cat's #1 hit, "Paint the Town Red" heavily samples her classic "Walk on By". Fun fact: did you know Cyndi Lauper did her own version of "Walk on By" that made the Dance chart top 10 in 2004?

THE WHITE STRIPES - Like everyone else, we were all shocked to see them on the ballot last year (and they didn't get in) so there's really no excuse for them not to in 2024. Jack White is, arguably, one of the last rock legends already and even with Meg not in the picture, he could still lead a rockin' good induction night.

WARREN ZEVON - Here's another I'll probably end up putting on my list until they're inducted. Last year as we know, Zevon had so much ballot competition that he didn't get in. But I'm sure voters, fans and those who appreciate his mark on music will celebrate his enshrinement soon.

-Who almost made the cut-

The B-52's - Destiny's Child - Emmylou Harris - Jethro Tull - Joy Divison/New Order - Lenny Kravitz - Queen Latifah - Salt 'n Pepa - Conway Twitty - Barry White


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