The Monkees should be on the next train to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
(No. 47 in a series on artists who should be in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, but are not)
By Phill Marder
Just about one year ago, this column/blog made its Goldmine debut.
Most of the articles have been dedicated to profiling artists who should be in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, but are not. And in each column I have tried to give the reasons why I support those profiled.
As promised, you haven’t read “Big Star should be in the Hall of Fame because I like them” or “The Small Faces should be in the Hall of Fame before The Monkees because I think so.” Not unless you read the comments, that is.
The list of those profiled is extensive:
Jack Scott; Burt Bacharach & Hal David; Chubby Checker; Donovan; Bon Jovi; Donna Summer; America; The Guess Who; Jeff Lynne; Neil Sedaka; Chicago; Cher; Kiss; Hall & Oates; Mary Wells; The Miracles; The Marvelettes; Todd Rundgren, Heart; Jan & Dean; Linda Ronstadt; The Moody Blues; Rush; Jay & The Americans; Jimmy Buffett; The Cars; Bob Crewe; Paul Revere & The Raiders; Deep Purple; The Smiths; Connie Francis; Johnny Rivers; Jethro Tull; Def Leppard; Cliff Richard; Tommy James & The Shondells; The E-Street Band; The Crickets; The Comets; The Pet Shop Boys; Freddy Cannon; Gary US Bonds; Yes; Glen Campbell; Duran Duran; The Cure; The Monkees; Paul Anka; Bobby Vee; Foreigner; Lionel Richie & The Commodores; Brook Benton; Bobby Day; Gerry & The Pacemakers; Herman’s Hermits; Manfred Mann; The Searchers; The Troggs; The Zombies.
Quite a list and, believe it or not, there’s still a few I haven’t gotten to yet. In my mind, they all should have been in the Hall of Fame already. But which ones do Goldmine readers agree with – at least so far? It’s time to sum up as the HOF nominating committee should be busy making its choices for the next class, if it hasn’t already.
So just who has garnered the most support over the year and who do Goldmine readers think should be on this year’s list of nominees? Clicking the “thumbs up” symbol at the close of each article, I assume means you agree with the piece. Either that or you confused it with another finger.
So we’ll take the 10 profiled who received the most “thumbs up” and presume these would be Goldmine readers’ choices.
But first, under my favorite rule – “it’s my blog & I’ll do what I want to” – we can induct Bob Crewe and the team of Hal David & Burt Bacharach as non-performers, since they were primarily writers and we can add Bon Jovi, Donovan and Donna Summer because they were nominated last year and didn’t get in, though their credentials were much more substantial than almost all those who did. And don’t start crying “Bon Jovi sucks” and “Donna Summer isn’t Rock & Roll.” A zillion fans have a different opinion of Bon Jovi and Donna Summer rocks a lot harder than many already in the Hall of Fame, disco beat or not.
The E-Street Band, with 544 recommendations, ranks second on the list of “thumbs up” from Goldmine readers, but should receive automatic induction to rectify the previous, unjustified slight which saw them passed over when Bruce went in. Likewise, The Miracles (with Smokey Robinson), The Comets (with Bill Haley) and The Crickets (with Buddy Holly).
Linda Ronstadt and The Moody Blues got their fair share of “thumbs up,” but really connected with comments, most of which were positive. So they qualify for “Goldmine recommendations.”
So there’s seven new inductees (Bacharach & David counting as one) and four corrections. Then, toss in one shoo-in from the newly eligibles, Guns N’ Roses, and that makes 12.
Now for our top 10. Yes, this would make a big induction class, but who cares? Twenty-two went in the second year, 16 the first. And what’s fair is fair. The object is to get those who truly deserve to be inducted inducted.
For Goldmine readers, these 10 truly deserve, according to the number of “thumbs up” received:
(1) The Monkees (1149) – The pre-fab four easily outdistanced all competition, getting more than twice as many “thumbs up” as the runner-up E-Street Band…so far. If you don’t like them, try to keep an open mind. They represent everything a Hall of Fame should be about…massive popularity, massive success, instant recognition.
(2) The E-Street Band (544) – Goldmine readers pretty much proved Bruce Springsteen’s backup band was recording more than the required 25 years ago.
Loyal followers made Todd Rundgren No. 3 in this list of Rock Hall hopefuls
(3) Todd Rundgren (404) – Though Todd was one of the earliest selections and I certainly believe he belongs in the HOF, I must admit I was surprised at the strong support he received. No question, he’s an obvious choice.
(4) Deep Purple (234) – The English veterans have piled up impressive stats over the years and their immense and faithful fan base pushed them near the top of the list.
(5) The Smiths (232) – Right behind Deep Purple – and this order could change at any minute – is Morrissey’s cult favorites and critics’ delight. But unlike most favorites of the critics, The Smiths demonstrated legitimate talent and, consequently, sold records.
(6) Duran Duran (201) – Speaking of selling records, few bands have sold more worldwide than the Fab Five. Proved long ago they’re not just a bunch of pretty faces.
(7) The Cure (201) – Tied with Duran Duran because they’re in the same article, The Cure’s following no doubt contributed mightily to their strong showing on this list.
(8) Jethro Tull (176) – One doesn’t think of Ian Anderson’s various combinations as mainstream, but years after their peak they still command a lot of love, respect and admiration. And their accomplishments merit Hall of Fame recognition.
(9) Yes (157) – The story of Yes finished ninth in the “thumbs up” category but drew a large number of passionate comments – most positive. In fact, the Yes story was in the Top 5 most popular stories until just recently.
(10) Jimmy Buffett (152) – When I included Jimmy Buffett in the series, I wasn’t sure what to expect. The response was heartening. Longevity and quality does count.
Just missing the top 10 – or “Bubbling Under” in musical jargon – was Heart which garnered 135 “thumbs up.” I had the pleasure of seeing them this summer, and they remain an incredible band and should be inducted soon. Cliff Richard (94) and Jeff Lynne (79) also posted respectable numbers and should receive careful consideration.
Canadian supergroups The Guess Who & Rush have gained surprisingly little support
A friend who recently stopped by looked at the list of those profiled and his first response was, “The Guess Who’s not in?” The Guess Who received support, but not what I expected, and Rush was a big disappointment, considering the fanaticism of their fan base. Maybe Goldmine doesn’t reach Canada. But Kiss also limped in with a very low number, only about half of that received by The Cars.
Early selections, those whose careers peaked in the ’50s or early ’60s, are at a distinct disadvantage because there are fewer followers left alive and most are at the age where internet use isn’t a priority. Of those, Connie Francis easily drew the strongest support and Jay & the Americans had their share of backing. Glen Campbell, Jan & Dean, Johnny Rivers and Jack Scott each hit double figures but were nowhere near the leaders.
Does your opinion mean anything? Maybe, maybe not. But I do know at least some members of the nominating committee have been reading “Great Blogs of Fire” the past year, which means they’re also privy to your comments. While we’ve been critical of the Hall of Fame, I hope we’ve also been fair.
Some of you have given up on the Hall of Fame, but Rock & Roll is my music, thus the Hall of Fame is my Hall of Fame. So, in the words of the immortal Curtis Mayfield, I’m gonna keep on pushing.
Tadwashere left this comment on Facebook – “Just curious… What are you going to write about when you are done working through the list of people who aren’t in the hall of fame?”
Well, there’s still a few more HOF entries to go, and then a couple other topics I think Goldmine readers will enjoy. Stuff such as the “Goldmine’s 20 Greatest Doo Wop Groups.” It’s not listed under “Great Blogs of Fire,” but can still be found under “Articles” if you scroll down a few hundred times (not that many, really). That ranked in the Top 5 most popular list for quite some time.
I have had some requests…but I’m gonna keep writing, anyway (badaboom). If you’d like to add your requests or thoughts, feel free to submit your comments.
I used to donate $$ to the Rock Hall. But then I realized that their selections were completely political, not at all transparent and that they were including acts that weren’t rock and roll by any definition. So I haven’t given them a penny for years. As for this guy’s blog, the E Street Band doesn’t deserve to get it unless they get in WITH Springsteen. If you want to amend Springsteen’s induction to include them, fine. But not a separate induction for a backup band. Monkees, in. Paul Revere and the Raiders, in. Guess Who, in. Jethro Tull, in. Moody Blues, in. Jimmy Buffett, in. But it is all political nonsense, no one knows how the voting works and why people are chosen and not chosen. All BS.
Bruce is already in. Monkees & Jethro Tull (see “Great Blogs Of Fire.”) Jimmy Buffett’s there, also, but he’s not included here because he’s not a band!
It’s not exactly true that no one knows how they vote. I do.
And I can tell you that there is fierce argument inside the closed doors every fall about who will be in or not. And there are three members of the E Street band and several other key players who are on the nominating committee. And even THEY can’t get themselves in.
This is a private party thrown by Jann W, FOR Jann W. and ultimately he just chooses who he wants to see there. Period.
If he likes you and he feels like it, you are in. He has had a hard on for lots of bands like the Monkees etc for decades. If they ever do get in, it will be because Jann decides to let them in. Period.
And as for donating to the HOF, you are insane. They have more $$$ at their disposal to throw these parties and keep the building in Cleveland for as long as they like.
LINK WRAY…influence of fuzz and grundge
DICK DALE…influence of SURF GUITARISTS…Heavy Metal with his SHOWMAN AMPS and Fender Guitar
JOHNNY RIVERS should have been in there a long time ago…just his HITS alone and his producing, etc. Especially over basically a one hit wonder like PERCY SLEDGE
The RRHoF became useless the minute Guns n Roses were admitted. I refuse to spend another minute contemplating a visit or even entering a discussion about its merits. A great idea completely meaningless; a rudderless ship piloted by fools.
I hate the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. It’s politics, that’s all it is
So you’re telling me that Donna Summer is in and the MOODIES aren’t?
What a bunch of bull##@@ that place is.
Still can’t believe the Beatie Boys are in, either. And, if the Monkees get in ahead of the Moodies, then it is REALLY a sham.
I’m ashamed this HOF is in our country. But, then, it IS in Cleveland (just kidding)
Donna Summer is NOT in
I cannot BELIEVE how Paul Revere and the Raiders are so overlooked and unsupported. This band formed professionally circa 1961 and is still a performing entity! They have existed for 50 consecutive years! How many bands can make that claim? They made more television appearances than any rock band of the 1960′s. In the mid 60′s they were one of America’s top groups. Mark Lindsay wrote, co wrote and/or produced their records (many along side Terry Melcher,another music genius) Many,many of their tracks were written by band members,starting in 1966. They were always 100% rock and roll and never diverted into jazz,disco or any other non-rock format.Their records were so well produced and performed I am amazed to this day. But even more amazing than their talent and performance is their consistent lack of acknowledgement within the rock community. Along with The Monkees, I think this is one of the most obnoxious snubs!
I’ve been saying for years there is a need for a MUSIC HALL OF FAME.
RNR Hall of Lame. It’s been that way since day #1. No historical perspective with weak/vague guidelines for induction. Here’s a clue-Wanda Jackson’s husband had to lobby,schmooz,handshake for 3 yrs to get her in. Influence, longevity, lasting influence, innovation/originality should play a much larger roll.(Sales and charting record a much smaller role). So Guns N Roses gets in with limited output? That means Boston get in next year. In my opinion, both relevant parts of rock history, but not induction worthy. Here’s a quick list in no particular order–Dick Dale, The Monkees, Heart, Chicago, Tower of Power, the Moody Blues, and Mike Nesmith . Congrats to all inducted, deserving or not. A friend of mine new it was flawed when Joni Mitchell got inducted before Gene Vincent. Until the induction process is viewed from an educational/historical perspective, the RNR HOF will be a minor player to the music FANatics.Ray – I cannot think of more vague criteria than “Influence, longevity, lasting influence, innovation/originality.” – Phill
The Monkees,
They should go into the Hall of Fame “ALONE” For that year in inducted
They have giving more pleasure to more people around the world than any other. Long overdue. 4 number one Lp’s in 13 months These guys got alot more talent & not to say of each of their personalities. Personally if i were any one of the four and were offered the Hall of Fame. I think i would tell them that they had there chance & KISS MY ASS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Cause they should have been in 15 years ago. I’m not going to downplay any inductees whom have already made it but to have double the votes to get in this year and they did’nt. Watch when next year comes around and The Monkees triple it or more. Seriously , this is not right. Who’s next to get in before them now “The Wiggles”
I am a fan of many bands in my lifetime, but i as do millions of other have a great affection for this one. Enough is enough~!
Now that poor Davy, the king of all teen idols has died I suspect the Monkees will finally get the nod. The attention his death brought back to the Monkees’ music has been pretty incredible. Pre-fab or not, that half century old music has woven it’s way into the very fabric of our society. Plus Jann and MTV will probably see some ratings opportunity in bringing the surviving three together for induction.
Ironically, thanks to all of the subsequent re-airings throughout the decades, that silly TV show has given them a perpetual exposure to young people the extent to which no other 60′s band – even the Beatles – has enjoyed. Everyone knows the Monkees. Need proof? Just start singing “Oh,I could hide ‘neath the wings of the bluebird as she sings…” in a group of people aged 10 to 70 and see how many start to sing along.
And I’d just like to add that I’ve heard for years that Jann Wenner hated Steve Marriott for some reason and that the Small Faces would never be inducted into the Hall for that reason. Well, they’re going in. Granted, he made sure Rod Stewart and Ron Wood were inappropriately tossed in for the ride, but still, the amazing Steve Marriott is finally getting some respect. I’m thinking the advent of Youtube is what eventually did the trick.
So take heart, Monkees fans. They’ll make it in soon enough.
I can’t believe Todd Rundgren isn’t in the Hall of Fame. He has done more for the world of music than anyone. Something is very wrong about him not being in there.
If the Monkees get in, then why not the Partridge Family???? In no way should they ever be in the R&R HOF. Maybe the TV HOF, but never the R&R HOF
The Monkees promoted Jimi Hendrix when few others would, they were the first to use a moog on a pop song (Daily Nightly), they popularized the concept of music videos, invented alt-country and let’s not even mention liguid paper! Now, let’s talk about 10cc, XTC, Badfinger, Thomas Dolby, Ohio Express, Joe Walsh . . .
Andy – The Classic Bubblegum Home Page
It’s about time Weird Al Yankovic was in the Rock Hall. Check out his accolades http://www.allthingsyank.com/rockhall/honors.htm and then watch this video..
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bxlpeilHGM8&feature=relmfu
first off, WHERE ARE THE NEW YORK DOLLS, DAMMIT! they should’ve been in when Iggy finally made it. The Monkees should definitely be in, Paul Revere & The Raiders too. but wth, why haven’t The B-52′s even been nominated? they’ve been around 30 years and their last cd, “Funplex” was a million times better than the lame last output of Guns & Roses, who had what, two great albums?
the RRHOF is a miserable joke…
Mountain should be in the HOF!
Mississippi Queen is a rock anthem
Leslie West is a legend who was there when loud guitar rock was born.
Who is the IDIOT comparing The Monkees to The Partridge Family?? The Monkees outsold The Beatles AND Rolling Stones COMBINED in 1967 and although they were put together just for a T.V show they actually went on to do everything themselves. 20 years after the show first aired they had the biggest selling concert tour of 1986!! Not too shabby!!
The Monkees, The Guess Who, The Moody Blues, Three Dog Night, Todd Rundgren, Dave Edmunds, Nick Lowe, Deep Purple, The Doobie Brothers, Chicago, Cheap Trick, Bachman-Turner Overdrive, Kiss, UFO, Scorpions…
I could probably think of at least a dozen more that all deserve induction into the Hall of Fame but for no other reasons but politica, are not in there!
Please please We need the Monkees in the hall of Fame!!
I am all for the Monkees getting in, just like I was all for the NASH-ERA Hollies getting in. Two awkward moments: 1. Terry Sylvester, post-Nash cypher, being thrown a sop, crashing the stage uninvited and thenbashing poor Graham Nash for not having invited him there
Second awkward moment: Don Kirshner getting in there before Davy, Micky, Peter and Mike.
Please put the monkees in before mike nesmith Peter tork and Micky dolenz they pass and will be too late
dear goldmine, as a true loyal fan of the monkees since 13 years old.they should have been inducted a loong time ago. it’s not about politics or agendas or any of that stuf. its about a band who starte the boy band craze waay before 98 degrees,nkotb, the back street boys i could go on and on all im saying is that its about freaking time people give them the freaking credit that they so deserve ty jp
The Monkees should by in Rock “n” Roll Hall of Fame!! Great band and singers. They had #1 songs.
The Monkees should have been in the RRHoF long ago and it is a puking shame that it didn’t happen in Davy Jones’ lifetime! If you look at the diversity of their music, it crossed over seamlessly: rockabilly (What Am I Doing Hangin’ ‘Round?), scat (Randy Scouse Git), ballads (Daydream Believer, I Wanna Be Free). It brought me as a 12 year old from Wisconsin to develop an abiding love for protest songs and psychedelic rock by easing me in from the comfort of my living room. I was too young to appreciate the stars of Woodstock at that time but I followed along with my beloved Monkees…and now I am aging as they are. If for no other songs than the haunting “Shades of Grey” or for songs as silly as “Auntie Grizzelda”, for taking bubble gum songs and infusing them with energy and even a little hint of sex, get them in the Hall ASAP. That is all.
@Joe Russo: Paul Revere & The Raiders are a joke band that only became really popular due to overexposure by classic rock radio and appearances on later seasons of Solid Gold. I could name tons of people and groups more worthy than them.
GRAND FUNK RAILROAD – A true rock band. THE AMERICAN BAND. Nine multi platinum selling albums. A #1 hit single in 1973. Grand Funk Railroad shatters each and every criteria for enshrinement into Cleveland’s RR Hall of Fame! For this American success story not to be there, is a shame, and a scam and not acceptable. GRAND FUNK RAILROAD, do the right thing.
Ed – Grand Funk was profiled in this series at
http://www.goldminemag.com/blogs/why-grand-funk-railroad-is-not-in-the-rock-roll-hall-of-fame