The 2026 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame ceremony is right around the corner on November 14th, and, like every other year, people flock to the internet to complain about different acts getting snubbed from the honor. So, we pulled together 100 different bands, singers, producers, managers, radio DJs, journalists and promoters that seemed to have been overlooked (or have failed in the fan vote) since the inception of the Hall.
We have 3 rules for this list:
1. We are going to loosely follow the R&RHOF’s one rule on eligibility for performers, which is: The Artist must have made their first recording a minimum of 25 years prior to that year’s ceremony. Now, there might be some groups and artists on this list that just barely sit outside of this requirement. It’s our list, so we can break the rules.
2. We are focusing on the various rock genres for this list (ex. Metal, Punk, Alt). Yes, the R&RHOF has evolved into something more than just one genre, but since we are a rock radio station, we’re sticking to our guns. Mostly.
3. We will note which category our snubs will most likely be placed in: Performers, Musical Influence, Non-performers/Ahmet Ertegun Award, and Musical Excellence. Plus, we’ll add some songs and albums to listen to that show who these artists really are
Now with all the rule B.S. out of the way, let’s start things off with Number 100!
100. Bad Brains
Year Eligible: 2008 Category: Musical Influence Times Nominated: 1
Members: Dr. Know, Darryl Jenifer, Earl Hudson, H.R.
What to listen to: I Against I, Banned in D.C., Sailin’ On
One of the originators of the hardcore punk movement, the Brains are a band that any punk fan should at least be aware of! Influencing groups like Green Day, Nirvana, and Soundgarden, the fact that the Bad Brains haven’t been inducted yet is a travesty. The group was almost inducted in 2016 but didn’t make the cut. If they can’t make it in as a member of the Performers section, Musical Influence would be a natural fit.
99. Hole
Year Eligible: 2016 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 0
Members: Courtney Love, Eric Erlandson, Kristen Pfaff, Melissa Auf der Maur, Patty Schemel
What to listen to: Celebrity Skin, Malibu, Violet
One of rock’s most commercially successful female-fronted alt bands, Hole’s omission from the Rock Hall if an interesting one. Yes, Courtney Love’s reputation could be a MAJOR factor as to why the band hasn’t received even a mention in the Rock Hall’s walls, but the music that the group created should not go ignored! Hole has disappeared from the limelight for a whole decade, so will a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction finally bring the band back from the dead?
98. Faith No More
Year Eligible: 2011 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 0
Members: Chuck Mosley, Mike Patton, Jim Martin, Jon Hudson, Billy Gould, Roddy Bottum, Mike Bordin
What to Listen to: Epic, Easy, Midlife Crisis
To many, Faith No More was a one-hit wonder band in the States with their song Epic but to those hardcore fans from around the world, Faith No More is so much more. Credited with inventing Alt Metal, the group also helped influence the creation of nu metal. Maybe getting the members of the Chili Peppers to join them for their eventual induction performance would be a nice way to forever bury the hatchet between the two bands.
97. Steppenwolf
Year Eligible: 1994 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 1
Members: John Kay, Jerry Edmonton, Goldy McJohn, Michael Monarch, Rushton Moreve
What to Listen to: Born to Be Wild, Magic Carpet Ride, Rock Me
A group that was only around for a short 5 years, Steppenwolf brought psychedelic rock to the masses in the late 60’s-early 70’s. The group was on the Fan Vote nominee list back in 2017, but they missed out on the cut. They are technically already in as a part of the Hall’s short-lived Singles category, but a full induction of the group would be preferred.
96. Captain Beefheart and The Magic Band
Year Eligible: 1992 Category: Musical Influence Times Nominated: 0
Members: Captain Beefheart, Alex St. Clair, Jeff Cotton, Bill Harkleroad, Jeff Moris Tepper, Jerry Handley, Mark Boston, Roy Estrada, Bruce Fowler, Eric Drew Feldman, John French, Art Tripp, Robert Williams
What to Listen to: Muffin Man, I’m Gonna Booglarize You Baby, Trout Mask Replica (album)
Your local record store pothead’s favorite singer, Captain Beefheart is on the same level as Frank Zappa in terms of musical insanity! Fusing elements of blues, rock, and jazz, Captain Beefheart has developed such a cult following that, if he were alive today, would rival the likes of Phish. Add the Magic Band alongside their Captain and everything should be good!
95. Melvins
Year Eligible: 2012 Category: Musical Influence Times Nominated: 0
Members: Buzz Osborne, Dale Crover, Lori “Lorax” Black, Mark Deutrom
What to Listen to: Honey Bucket, Revolve, A History of Bad Men
The definitive pre-grunge band, the Melvins essentially helped create the genre as well as sludge metal. If your work is so important that it can create TWO genres, you deserve a spot in the Hall. The only question is which band members would be a part of the induction? Obviously Buzz and Dale would be there, but they’ve replaced their bassist so many times that it would be difficult to include just one.
94. Poison
Year Eligible: 2012 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 0
Members: Bret Michaels, Rikki Rockett, C.C. DeVille, Bobby Dall
What to Listen to: Every Rose Has Its Thorn, Talk Dirty to Me, Nothin’ But a Good Time
One of the biggest hair bands of the 1980s, Poison has become a bit of a joke nowadays (like another glam metal giant who we’ll talk about later), but they had a LOT of great songs that propelled them to the top. Not sure what happened from then to now, but Poison is a grossly under looked group that will one day be added to the Hall of Fame.
93. The Black Crowes
Year Eligible: 2016 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 2
Members: Chris Robinson, Rich Robinson, Johnny Colt, Steve Gorman, Eddie Harsch, Marc Ford
What to Listen to: Hard to Handle, She Talks to Angels, Remedy
The Robinson boys just can’t seem to catch a break, huh? Nominated two years in a row, The Black Crowes have just missed the cut, and their fans aren’t having it. But the question is: Do they deserve to get in? In this writer’s opinion: Not really, but I understand the appeal. The band was a huge success in the early 90’s that it helps warrant their imminent induction. Maybe 2027 will be their year?
92. Twisted Sister
Year Eligible: 2005 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 0
Members: Dee Snider, Jay Jay French, Eddie “Fingers” Ojeda, Mark “The Animal” Mendoza, A. J. Pero
What to Listen to: We’re Not Gonna Take It, I Wanna Rock, The Price
A classic 80’s metal band known not only for their raw sound and outlandish attire, but the music of Twisted Sister also infused multiple subgenres into their style like Heavy Metal, Hard Rock, and Shock Rock. Despite what lead singer Dee Snider says, the band helped push the glam metal movement into the limelight. Sister was everywhere in the 80s and has become a beloved fixture in the Hard Rock/Metal scene, with various bands covering their music. Plus with the possibility of Dee coming out of retirement one more time would be awesome!
91. Blue Öyster Cult
Year Eligible: 1998 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 0
Members: Donald “Buck Dharma” Roeser, Eric Bloom, Allen Lanier, Joe Buchard, Albert Bouchard
What to Listen to: (Don’t Fear) The Reaper, Godzilla, Burnin’ for You
A band you could hear on almost any classic rock radio station in America, Blue Oyster Cult’s hard rock psychedelia helped create the genre of stoner metal. So, all you potheads out there have BOC to thank. And, of course, we have to mention it: I’VE GOT A FEVER! AND THE ONLY PRESCRIPTION, IS MORE COWBELL! The fact that we could get either Will Ferrell or Christopher Walken to do the induction is just too good to pass up.
90. Kansas
Year Eligible: 2000 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 0
Members: Robby Steinhardt, Steve Walsh Phil Ehart, Rich Williams, Kerry Livgren, Dave Hope
What to Listen to: Carry on Wayward Son, Dust in the Wind, Point of Know Return
A staple of classic rock radio stations across the country, Kansas’ fusion of hard rock, southern rock and prog makes them a unique entrant on this list. Obviously, many know the band for Carry on Wayward Son, but the band’s catalog is vast compared to many others on this list. With how many members the band has had over the years, clearly the lineup from the band’s formation in 1973 to when both Robby Steinhardt and Steve Walsh left the group in 1985 would be the ones entered into the Hall.
89. Humble Pie
Year Eligible: 1995 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 0
Members: Steve Marriott, Peter Frampton, Greg Ridley, Jerry Shirley
What to Listen to: Black Coffee, I Don’t Need No Doctor, 30 Days in the Hole
If the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame were based in the UK, Humble Pie would have been inducted YEARS ago. One of the first supergroups of the late-60s, Humble Pie took the UK by storm in the early to mid-70’s. Even though they didn’t quite breakthrough Stateside until after Peter Frampton left the group, Humble Pie’s sound is undeniably their own fusing together blues, boogie rock and hard rock.
88. REO Speedwagon
Year Eligible: 1997 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 0
Members: Kevin Cronin, Gary Richrath, Bruce Hall, Neal Doughty, Alan Gratzer, Mike Murphy
What to Listen to: Ridin’ the Storm Out, Roll with the Changes, Can’t Fight This Feeling
A group that gets a lot of love from the older fans of the Rock Hall, REO Speedwagon is just one of those bands that has a classic repertoire that shouldn’t go unnoticed by rock fans. Yes, they are more pop than rock, but their music has been a mainstay on classic rock stations for years! The group is a black sheep choice when it comes to deciding who will be in the Hall every year, but the fans show up for them.
87. Traveling Wilburys
Year Eligible: 2014 Category: Musical Excellence Times Nominated: 0
Members: George Harrison, Tom Petty, Bob Dylan, Jeff Lynne, Roy Orbison
What to Listen to: Handle with Care, End of the Line, Nobody’s Child
Our next supergroup, the Traveling Wilburys created such a unique multi-guitar sound and harmonies with its members: Bob Dylan, George Harrison, Tom Petty, Jeff Lynne, and Roy Orbison. That caliber of musicianship coming together didn’t last long as Orbison would die of a heart attack during the band’s infancy, only allowing them to make just one album with all of the original members. Will it happen? Probably not. Would it be cool to give this group some extra love and bring them back into the spotlight? Absolutely!
86. Whitesnake
Year Eligible: 2004 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 0
Members: David Coverdale, Mickey Moody, Bernie Marsden, Neil Murray, Jon Lord, Ian Paice, John Sykes, Aynsley Dunbar, Mel Galley, Colin Hodgkinson
What to Listen to: Here I Go Again, Still of the Night, Is This Love
When you think of 80’s glam rock bands, Whitesnake comes to mind. With their sexually charged innuendos and wailing guitars, the band evolved from Deep Purple into a bluesy pub band before they went full on glam. The group didn’t quite explode onto the US scene until their glam movement in the 80’s, so many Americans would only really care about that era of the band. This puts the band in a weird space for a possible induction.
85. The Silver Bullet Band
Year Eligible: 2002 Category: Musical Excellence Times Nominated: 0
Members: Drew Abbott, Charlie Martin, Rick Mannassa, Chris Campbell, Alto Reed, Mark Charfield, Shaun Murphy, Laura Creamer, Rick Vito, Fred Tackett, David Teegarden, Dawayne Bailey, Don Brewer, Craig Frost
What to Listen to: Turn the Page, Katmandu, Get Out of Denver
The first in a long line of backing bands that was not inducted into the Hall when their frontman was. When Bob Seger was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2004, many thought the Silver Bullet Band would have been inducted alongside him. But that didn’t happen. You don’t get the Bob Seger sound we all know and love without the Silver Bullet Band. Do what was done with the E Street Band in 2014 and all will be right with the world.
84. The Mothers of Invention
Year Eligible: 1992 Category: Musical Excellence Times Nominated: 0
Members: Don Preston, Jimmy Carl Black, Bunk Gardner, Mark “Flo” Volman, Howard “Eddie” Kaylan, Ray Collins, Ian Underwood, George Duke, Billy Mundi,
What to Listen to: My Guitar Wants To Kill Your Mama, Montana, Muffin Man
Another backing band for this list, The Mothers of Invention was the main backing band and sometimes side project for Hall of Famer Frank Zappa. Much like The Silver Bullet Band beforehand, Zappa’s insanity got such a boost with the help of The Mothers. The one main issue is choosing who gets inducted as the group had 50 different members including Zappa. But that’s not for us to think about.
83. The Revolution
Year Eligible: 2010 Category: Musical Excellence Times Nominated: 0
Members: Dez Dickerson, Andre Cymone, Gayle Chapman, Bobby Z, Matt Fink, Brown Mark, Lisa Coleman, Wendy Melvoin, Eric Leeds, Jill Jones
What to Listen to: Purple Rain, When Doves Cry, Let’s Go Crazy
Nine years. That’s how long Prince’s backing group lasted. But their impact is so undeniable that it’s criminal that the group wasn’t involved in Prince’s induction in 2004. Adding the Pre-Revolution members would be a nice touch as well.
82. The Wailers
Year Eligible: 1991 Category: Musical Excellence Times Nominated: 0
Members: Peter Tosh, Bunny Wailer, Aston Barrett, Carlton Barrett, Earl Lindo, Cherry Smith, Beverley Kelso, Junior Braithwaite, Constantine Walker, Hugh Malcolm, Alvin Patterson, Rita Marley, Judy Mowatt, Marcia Griffiths, Al Anderson , Tyrone Downie, Junior Marvin
What to Listen to: I Shot The Sheriff, Could You Be Loved, Three Little Birds
Noticing a theme here? Yet ANOTHER backing band, The Wailers played backup for Hall of Famer Bob Marley. Do I need to say anything else after what’s been said with the previous three entries for this list? No? Ok.
81. Wings
Year Eligible: 1997 Category: Performer/Musical Excellence Times Nominated: 0
Members: Paul McCartney, Linda McCartney, Denny Laine, Denny Seiwell, Henry McCullough, Jimmy McColloch, Geoff Britton, Joe English, Laurence Juber, Steve Holley
What to Listen to: Live And Let Die, Band on the Run, Listen to What the Man Said
Our last backing band for the list, Wings, was the unofficial spin-off of The Beatles with two-time Hall of Famer Paul McCartney taking the helm. Again, another great backing band that was not given the love they deserved when McCartney was inducted for his solo work. Plus, if they decided to include McCartney, he would become the second three timer.
80. Sharon Osbourne
Category: Non-Performer
With the passing of Ozzy last year, Sharon will probably be in the forefront of the nominating committee’s minds for this next go round in 2027. Yes, Sharon has had a slew of controversies in the past. Look at what she did to Iron Maiden at Ozzfest, her comments about the group Kneecap, or sending her assistant into a burning house. But her work in the industry managing and reviving Ozzy’s career, and managing acts like Motorhead, The Smashing Pumpkins, and Lita Ford deserves spotlight. I guess her father’s business mind and tactics rubbed off on her.
79. Audioslave
Year Eligible: 2027 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 0
Members: Chris Cornell, Tim Commerford, Tom Morello, Brad Wilk
What to Listen to: Like a Stone, Cochise, Be Yourself
Our first rule breaker of the list as they won’t be eligible till next year at the time of writing. Audioslave was a supergroup consisting of Hall of Famers Tom Morello, Tim Commerford and Brad Wilk of Rage Against the Machine, as well as Chris Cornell of Soundgarden. Releasing only three albums, Audioslave is one of many supergroups that will one day have their chance to make it in the Hall, but, like many supergroups, it’s going to be awhile before anything is done.
78. Temple of the Dog
Year Eligible: 2017 Category: Musical Excellence Times Nominated: 0
Members: Chris Cornell, Jeff Ament, Matt Cameron, Stone Gossard, Mike McCready, Eddie Vedder
What to Listen to: Temple of the Dog (album), Hunger Strike, Say Hello 2 Heaven
Kind of a dual entry here as Temple of the Dog is in the same boat as Audioslave but will have an even BIGGER hill to climb. Only releasing one album in the band’s lifetime, this supergroup, featuring members of Pearl Jam and Chris Cornell of Soundgarden, has such a dynamic sound that it can be argued that the band’s importance can’t go unnoticed. But, as said before, with just one album to their name, Temple would most likely end up in the Musical Excellence section of the Hall.
77. Tenacious D
Year Eligible: 2026 Category: Musical Excellence Times Nominated: 0
Members: Jack Black, Kyle Gass
What to Listen to: Tribute, Wonderboy, Master Exploder
Now I know what you’re going to say: “Really? You’re gonna say a comedy act deserves to be in the R&R HOF over INSERT NAME HERE!?” My answer to that is an emphatic YES! Tenacious D have garnered so much respect in the rock & metal communities that it’s just a matter of time before it happens, making them one of the only comedy rock acts to make it into the Hall of Fame. But they wouldn’t be the ONLY comedy act that could get into the Hall of Fame. More on that later.
76. Casey Kasem
Category: Non-Performer
A radio legend whose work gave us the American Top 40, a program that helped introduce many listeners to some of the industry’s future stars. Kasem’s iconic voice brought the Top 40 radio format back to life. Kasem also helped create one of the first awards shows celebrating music videos, the American Video Awards. It only lasted a few years but could be viewed as the precursor to the much more successful MTV Music Video Awards.
75. Misfits
Year Eligible: 2004 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 0
Members: Glenn Danzig, Jerry Only, Doyle Wolfgang von Frankenstein
What to Listen to: Where Eagles Dare, Last Caress, Walk Among Us (album)
Horror Punk icons, you’ve probably seen their logo at various punk and metal shows, but they are more than just a logo and a haircut. The Misfits’ sound mixes horror elements with punk, psychobilly, metal, and 50’s rock and roll to make something entirely their own. The band has had multiple incarnations, but has recently been revived into the monster that it once was.
74. Marilyn Manson
Year Eligible: 2020 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 0
Members: Marilyn Manson, Daisy Berkowitz, Madonna Wayne Gacy, Twiggy Ramirez, John 5, Ginger Fish, Tim Skold
What to Listen to: The Beautiful People, Sweet Dreams (Are Made Of This), This Is the New $hit
A controversial figure in the music space, Marilyn Manson has aspects that the Rock Hall look for when deciding inductees (distinct sound, name recognition, huge popularity in his heyday), but Manson also has aspects that they look to avoid. Do I really need to list them? Of the MANY issues regarding Manson getting in, one that pops into my head is the Hall’s seeming hatred of Metal music, which is going to be a common theme throughout this list.
73. The B-52’s
Year Eligible: 2004 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 0
Members: Ricky Wilson, Kate Pierson, Cindy Wilson, Fred Schneider, Keith Strickland
What to Listen to: Love Shack, Rock Lobster, Private Idaho
More than just the songs Love Shack and Rock Lobster, The B-52’s are your weird friend’s favorite band with their 50s and 60s inspired sound, “Thrift Shop Aesthetic” and campiness. The group could technically be considered a nerd rock group in the same vein as a group like Weezer. They have their sound and stick to it.
72. Ted Nugent
Year Eligible: 2001 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 0
What to Listen to: Stranglehold, Cat Scratch Fever, Hey Baby
If the politics got out of the way on both sides, Uncle Ted would’ve been in a long time ago. The Motor City Madman’s iconic guitar sound brought the Detroit hard rock scene to life (albeit just for a moment) by giving us hits like Stranglehold and Cat Scratch Fever. But like I said, politics are probably the main reason why Nuge isn’t getting in anytime soon.
71. The Guess Who
Year Eligible: 1991 Category: Performer/Musical Excellence Times Nominated: 0
Members: Randy Bachman, Kurt Winter, Donnie McDougall, Burton Cummings, Jim Kale, Garry Peterson, Bob Ashley, Chad Allan
What to Listen to: American Woman, No Sugar Tonight/New Mother Nature, No Time
The first Canadian group on our list, The Guess Who were one of many great groups to come out of the early 70’s that just took over the Great White North but only had middling success stateside. But man, once you hear that open riff to American Woman you understand why The Guess Who are well beloved in various rock circles. There is a bit of infighting and drama going on between band members Jim Kale and both Burton Cummings and Randy Bachman, so the already slim chance of the group performing together at the event, is even more slim now.
70. Bob Geldof
Category: Non-Performer
Bob Geldof may not be a very familiar name to you, but he has left a very big mark on music history as not only a member of the British group The Boomtown Rats, but also as the organizer of the Band-Aid efforts in the UK as well as creating two of the biggest benefit concerts in history: 1985’s Live Aid and 2005’s Live 8. Need I say anymore?
69. Jeff Buckley
Year Eligible: 2019 Category: Musical Excellence Times Nominated: 1
What to Listen to: Grace (album)
Nominated for the first time this year (2026), Jeff Buckley is probably one of your favorite artist’s favorite artist. And Buckley is more than just a Hallelujah cover artist as his only studio album Grace has reached multi-platinum status in a variety of countries around the world. And if Jeff Buckley would get into the HOF, I believe he would be the only solo artist with just one studio album to be inducted. That’s a feat in its own right!
68. Peter Grant
Category: Non-Performer
Known as “one of the shrewdest and most ruthless managers in rock history,” Peter Grant has earned those monikers. Most known as Led Zeppelin’s manager, Grant was able to improve pay and conditions for not only his clients, but all musicians by using his size, confrontational mannerisms, knowledge and experience. And calling out concert promoters publicly. Grant was a scary dude that cared deeply for his clients and his work, while at times controversial, helped push the rock industry forward for artists.
67. The Runaways
Year Eligible: 2002 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 0
Members: Cherie Currie, Joan Jett, Lita Ford, Jackie Fox, Sandy West, Micki Steele, Vicki Blue
What to Listen to: Cherry Bomb, Dead End Justice, Saturday Nite Special
The first all-female hard rock band, The Runaways may have had a short run, only lasting about 5 years, but their impact can be felt throughout rock music to this day. Guitarist Joan Jett is already in for her solo work, so getting the rest of the group inducted just needs to happen.
66. The J. Geils Band
Year Eligible: 1996 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 5
Members: J. Geils, Magic Dick, Danny Klein, Seth Justman, Peter Wolf, Stephen Jo Bladd
What to Listen to: Centerfold, Freeze Frame, Love Stinks
What popped into your head as soon as you read The J. Geils Band? Love Stinks? Centerfold? Freeze-Frame? Of course you did! Those are new wave staples, but they aren’t the only things that The J. Geils Band had accomplished. Hitting it big with their blues rock sound in the 70’s, the group would only be around just a few more years when the enormity of Love Stinks and Freeze-Frame hit the airwaves! Imagine calling it quits right when you hit your stride as a band but still having such an influence all these years later. That’s The J. Geils Band!
65. Sum 41
Year Eligible: 2025 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 0
Members: Deryck Whibley, Dave Baksh, Tom Thacker, Jason McCaslin, Steve Jocz, Frank Zummo
What to Listen to: In Too Deep, Fat Lip, Still Waiting
Calling it quits right when you became eligible to be inducted into the R&RHOF was a brave choice, but the possibility of one more set from Sum 41 is what all pop punk fans would clamor for. And with the dedicated fanbase that Sum 41 has garnered over the years, it’s always possible that that uproar could infiltrate the annals of the Hall and put the band onto the fan vote ballot one of these years.
64. Rammstein
Year Eligible: 2021 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 0
Members: Till Lindemann, Richard Kruspe, Paul Landers, Oliver Riedel, Christoph Schneider, Christian “Flake” Lorenz
What to Listen to: Du Hast, Ich Will, Sonne
The only non-English speaking group on this list, Rammstein is still tearing it up on stages across Europe with elaborate stage shows and heavy industrial metal! Rammstein getting in is a long shot as the Hall has a disdain for metal acts it seems, plus all the controversies surrounding the band and lead singer Till Lindemann. So who knows if or when the German Neue Deutsche Härte group will ever get inducted
63. Blur
Year Eligible: 2016 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 0
Members: Damon Albarn, Graham Coxon, Alex James, Dave Rowntree
What to Listen to: Song 2, Girls and Boys, Bang
Beginning their days in the early 90’s, Blur would explode into the atmosphere with Britpop classics like Parklife and The Great Escape. Blur would reinvent themselves shortly after and release their biggest song Song 2 in 1997. The group has been on and off since, and we probably won’t see the band get as much as a nomination anytime soon. But since their rivals Oasis finally got in, it’s very possible it could happen within the next few years.
62. Hipgnosis
Category: Non-Performer
An art design group out of the UK that helped create some of rock’s greatest album covers between 1968-1983. Members Storm Thorgerson, Aubrey Powell and Peter Christopherson used their skills to the best of their ability working with the likes of Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, Black Sabbath, and even Paul McCartney! The catalog of their work is insurmountable that no other arthouse could even touch them! Even the members’ work after they dissolved in 1983 is worth noting!
61. Zakk Wylde
Year Eligible: 2013 Category: Musical Excellence Times Nominated: 0
What to listen to: Rust, Lost Prayer, Stillborn
One of the greatest Sidemen in the history of rock, whether he be a part of Ozzy Osbourne’s band or the touring version of Pantera, Zakk Wylde is one of rock’s premier guitarists. Working in so many different projects of his own like Zakk Sabbath, Pride & Glory, or Black Label Society, the man has done it all; except get into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. But how would it happen? As a part of Black Label Society? Doubtful. On his own? Most likely as part of the Musical Excellence category. Or would it be as a member of Pantera? More on that later.
60. DEVO
Year Eligible: 2003 Category: Performer/Musical Excellence Times Nominated: 3
Members: Bob Mothersbaugh, Mark Mothersbaugh, Bob Casale, Gerald Casale, Alan Myers, David Kendrick
What to listen to: Whip It, Uncontrollable Urge, Girl You Want
Coming from just down the road to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Museum in Cleveland, Akron, Ohio’s own DEVO are probably one of the biggest outsiders on this list! Known for their surrealist humor and satirical themes, DEVO helped influence the creation of a variety of genres like geek rock and synth pop. Yes, the band is mainly known for just a few songs, but the influence on other greats is there proving they belong at least in the Musical Excellence wing of the Hall
59. The Tragically Hip
Year Eligible: 2013 Category: Musical Excellence Times Nominated: 0
Members: Gord Downie, Rob Baker, Gord Sinclair, Johnny Fay, Davis Manning, Paul Langlois
What to listen to: Ahead by a Century, Bobcaygeon, New Orleans Is Sinking
Some of Canada’s favorite sons, The Hip didn’t get as much love State side, but that shouldn’t stop them from getting in. Receiving multiple Juno awards, the band hasn’t performed as The Hip since their final show in 2016 and lead singer Gord Downie’s death from terminal brain cancer in 2017. Speaking of the final show and another reason why the band should at least get a nomination, 30 song set was broadcasted live simultaneously by the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation’s television and radio brands as well as YouTube and pulled in 11.7 million people. That’s roughly a third of Canada’s population. It’s time to give The Hip their due.
58. Rob Zombie/White Zombie
Years Eligible: 2023/2011 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 0
Members: Rob Zombie, Sean Yseult, Ivan de Prume, Mike Riggs, Rob “Blasko” Nicholson, John Tempesta
What to listen to: ThunderKiss’65, Dragula, Living Dead Girl
Our first official dual entry, Rob Zombie and his namesake band White Zombie’s groove metal sound still blast through rock radios across the world. Blending horror rock, industrial metal, and old school heavy metal, Rob exploded in popularity after White broke up in 1998 with the album Hellbilly Deluxe and still tours this day as a solo act. Both acts’ chances are good to one day make it in but with so many more heavy hitters of the metal sphere not even in the HOF yet, it might take Zombie, both Rob and White, awhile to even be considered.
57. Meat Loaf
Year Eligible: 1997 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 0
Members: Meat Loaf, Jim Steinman
What to listen to: Bat Out of Hell (album AND song), Paradise By the Dashboard Lights, I’d Do Anything for Love
Creator of one of the best-selling albums of all time, Meat Loaf is a theater nerd’s rockstar, even if the theater nerd wouldn’t really agree with his choices later in life. Hitting it big in the Los Angeles production of The Rocky Horror Show and the film The Rocky Horror Picture Show, Marvin Aday used his theater background to create Bat Out of Hell with Jim Steinman. Even if you have one of the best sellers, it still took someone like Peter Frampton, who has one of the best-selling live albums EVER, 26 years to get inducted! Maybe add co-writer Jim Steinman alongside Loaf.
56. Rise Against
Year Eligible: 2025 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 0
Members: Tim McIlrath, Joe Principe, Brandon Barnes, Zach Blair, Dan Wleklinksi, Todd Mohney, Chris Chasse
What to listen to: Prayer of the Refugee, Savior, Satellite
A heavy hitter from the Chicago rock scene, Rise Against is known for aggressive sound, rapid tempos, and excellent melodies mixed with their lyrics oozing with social commentary. The groups drive to become more radio friendly in recent years as definitely helped their popularity grow, but the message remained the same!
55. Michael Lang
Category: Non-Performer
A now controversial figure in the concert promoter world, Lang was a co-creator of Woodstock alongside Artie Kornfeld, John P Roberts and Joel Rosenman. Lang also had a hand in creating both Woodstock ‘94 & ‘99 as well as having a hand in the Altamont Free Concert. As said before, Lang is very controversial as it seemed he only cared about the money when it came to his later concerts, but he and his co-creators of Woodstock should get honored.
54. The Cranberries
Year Eligible: 2017 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 0
Members: Dolores O’Riordan, Mike Hogan, Noel Hogan, Fergal Lawler, Niall Quinn
What to listen to: Linger, Zombie, Dreams
When you think of The Cranberries, what’s the first thing that comes to mind? Their various genre shifts throughout the years (sometimes within the same album)? The influence of classic Irish folk? Or is it the haunting lead vocals of the band’s late singer Dolores O’Riordan? Clearly, it’s all three, right? One of Ireland’s definitive rock bands, The Cranberries won’t be the first Irish band in the Hall, but one that deserves the honor.
53. Seether
Year Eligible: 2027 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 0
Members: Shaun Morgan, Pat Callahan, Corey Lowery, Dale Stewart, Dave Cohoe, John Humphrey
What to listen to: Broken, Fake It, Fine Again
One of the few entries on our list that isn’t technically eligible yet as the South African group doesn’t hit the 25-year mark until next year, but we wanted to show some love. Plus, we all know SOMEBODY would say, “Where’s Seether?” Breaking onto the scene in 2002 with their album Disclaimer, the band was a major player in the early 2000’s post-grunge/alt metal/nu metal scene. But there are a few other groups from that era that would probably get in before Seether ever does.
52. Beck
Year Eligible: 2019 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 1
What to Listen to: Loser, Where It’s At, Gamma Ray
Where to begin with Beck? Known for playing almost every genre under the sun, Beck has created some amazing postmodern music ranging from alt rock to electronica. Albums like Mellow Gold, Odelay and Modern Guilt show the insane creative juices flowing out of Beck’s mind with his ironic lyrics and multi-instrumentations. Beck has been nominated before, so who’s to say? Is the second time the charm?
51. The Offspring
Year Eligible: 2014 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 0
Members: Dexter Holland, Noodles, Greg K., Ron Welty
What to Listen to: The Kids Aren’t Alright, Pretty Fly (For a White Guy), Self Esteem
Whether you hear their skate rock anthems or the opening to Pretty Fly, you know it’s gonna be a good time. Once you hear Dexter Holland start singing with that strong, nasally voice, you immediately know it’s an Offspring song. That iconic sound that they produce is enough of a reason to induct the group! Oh, and have Axl Rose induct them. Just for the chaos of it all. That’s a good word to explain the sound of The Offspring. Chaos!
50. Phish
Year Eligible: 2014 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 1
Members: Trey Anastasio, Mike Gordon, Jon Fishman, Page McConnell
What to Listen to: Farmhouse, Sample in a Jar, Bouncing Around the Room
Poor Phish. The Dave Matthews Band of this list as, like DMB in 2020, won the fan vote in 2025 but still missed out on getting inducted. It’s a damn shame too as Phish have such a distinct sound as a jam band that they rival the likes of DMB and the Dead. And this is coming from a non-Phish fan. Don’t even get me started on the turnout for their live shows. Just beyond impressive.
49. Muse
Year Eligible: 2023 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 0
Members: Matt Bellamy, Dominic Howard, Chris Wolstenholme
What to Listen to: Knights of Cydonia, Supermassive Black Hole, Uprising
One of many giants of the UK rock scene, Muse evolved from a Radiohead sound-alike to their own entity with frontman Matt Belamy’s great vocal range and crazy guitar sound, Chris Wolstenholme’s bass combined with synthesizers, and guttural drums of Dominic Howard. Never staying within just one genre, the band changed things up every album with new themes and sounds.
48. Lenny Kravitz
Year Eligible: 2015 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 1
What to Listen to: Are You Gonna Go My Way, American Woman, Fly Away
One of the Top 100 greatest hard rock artists of all time according to VH1, Lenny Kravitz is an icon in the world of music. Fusing genres like rock, funk and R&B, Kravitz has won multiple Grammys, including four consecutive Best Male Rock Vocal Performance Grammys, a record he still holds to this day. It’s just a matter of time when Lenny will make his mark on the Hall of Fame.
47. Thin Lizzy
Year Eligible: 1996 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 1
Members: Phil Lynott, Scott Gorham, Brian Robertson, Brian Downey, Gary Moore
What to Listen to: The Boys Are Back in Town, Whiskey in the Jar, Jailbreak
A mainstay in the Irish rock landscape, Thin Lizzy has left a such a mark on rock music that it’s shocking the band hasn’t been inducted yet. Lead singer and bassist Phil Lynott has become a bit of a folk hero in the rock space, and their music, which mixed Irish Folk, Blues and Hard Rock, has influenced many greats like Metallica, Alice in Chains, and Guns N Roses. Thin Lizzy is not a question of “If they’ll get in,” it’s “when will they get in?”
46. My Chemical Romance
Year Eligible: 2027 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 0
Members: Gerard Way, Ray Toro, Mikey Way, Franke Iero, Bob Bryar, James Dewees, Matt Pelissier
What to Listen to: The Black Parade (album), Helena, Teenagers
Another rule breaker for this list, My Chemical Romance is every young millennial/old Gen-Z-er’s favorite emo band, even though they don’t like that title. They won’t be eligible until 2027, but the group is a major influence on today’s wide spectrum of rock bands. Go to any rock festival today and you can hear the band’s influence within younger bands’ music. Mark my words, one day My Chem will be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. I’m not sure when, but it’ll happen.
45. Evanescence
Year Eligible: 2023 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 0
Members: Amy Lee, Ben Moody, Will Boyd, Rocky Gray, John LeCompt, Terry Balsamo, Tim McCord, Troy McLawhorn, Will Hunt
What to Listen to: Bring Me To Life, My Immortal, Call Me When You’re Sober
Symphonic metal giants, Evanescence has garnered so much acclaim for their decade defining work from the 2000’s, that it just seems undeniable that the group will become Hall of Famers. Anytime you hear Amy Lee’s amazing vocals, you know you’re in for an awesome ride! The band has earned the respect of their peers after years of great music and their pure rock essence!
44. Styx
Year Eligible: 1998 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 0
Members: Dennis DeYoung, James Young, Tommy Shaw, Chuck Panozzo, John Panozzo, John Curulewski
What to Listen to: Come Sail Away, Mr. Roboto, Lady
Another classic rock favorite for older fans, Styx created such a legacy that it’s kind of hard to deny their entry into the Hall of Fame. The only real issue is the Hall’s seeming hatred of “corporate” rock bands. But I mean, come on. Styx has created some of the most iconic music in American rock history and were able to release FOUR consecutive multi-platinum albums from 1979-1981. Enough with the idea of corporate rock. It’s time to give Styx their flowers. Plus, I want to see Dennis DeYoung argue with his former bandmates that tried to take away his writing credits on Styx’s music. The drama is too enticing!
43. Boston
Year Eligible: 2002 Category: Performer/Musical Excellence Times Nominated: 0
Members: Brad Delp, Tom Scholz, Barry Goudreau, Fran Sheehan, Sib Hashian
What to Listen to: Boston (album), More Than a Feeling, Foreplay/Long Time
Another casualty of the idea of “corporate” rock bands, Boston was created in a basement by just one man, Tom Scholz, who played every single instrument on every single song for the group’s self-titled debut album (one of the best-selling debut albums ever), and vocalist Brad Delp, who’s voice brought the spirit of Boston to life! But it wasn’t just their first album that kept them going as their other albums continued to push the band to higher places! This band deserves a place in the hallowed halls of the RNR HOF.
42. System of a Down
Year Eligible: 2023 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 0
Members: Serj Tankian, Daron Malakian, Shavo Odadjian, John Dolmayan, Andy Khachaturian
What to Listen to: Chop Suey!, B.Y.O.B, Toxicity
Armenian metal giants System of a Down only released five albums and left such a legacy that shows they are more than a fitting entry into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Plus, with their rabid fanbase clamoring for more since SOAD is only doing a small number of shows, why not get them in for one more performance. Grammy wins, political protests, and F-bombs on SNL prove the group fits the bill!
41. Limp Bizkit
Year Eligible: 2023 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 0
Members: Fred Durst, Wes Borland, Sam Rivers, John Otto, DJ Lethal
What to Listen to: Break Stuff, Rollin’ (Air Raid Vehicle), Nookie
A controversial pick for this list, Limp Bizkit was, at one time, the biggest band in the world, but a string of controversies marred their legacy (see Woodstock ‘99 as an example) to the point where they have become a punchline in rock circles. But those controversies shouldn’t overshadow the fact that the Bizkit is a major influence on groups today and helped popularize an entire genre of rock music with nu metal.
40. Howard Stern
Category: Non-Performer
Here me out on this one. Howard Stern is not really known for being a standard Disc Jockey; he’s more of an interviewer nowadays. But the way that he has become so respected in the industry with those interviewing skills alone. The “King of All Media” has spoken to generations of listeners as he broke the rules of radio. And that’s Rock and Roll to a tee.
Should Howard Stern get the lifetime achievement award at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame? @NancyWilson and @robertAbooey make the case for the King of All Media to be inducted. pic.twitter.com/IEwEFTIGR1
— Stern Show (@sternshow) March 7, 2026
39. The Killers
Year Eligible: 2029 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 0
Members: Brandon Flowers, Dave Keuning, Mark Stoermer, Ronnie Vannucci Jr
What to Listen to: Mr. Brightside, When You Were Young, Somebody Told Me
I guess the youngest band on this list (in terms of their debut album’s release date), The Killers are already buddy-buddy with the HOF as they have performed many times for the ceremony over the years. Will they get in in 2029? Probably not, but the induction won’t be that far away once they become eligible.
38. Creed
Year Eligible: 2023 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 0
Members: Scott Stapp, Mark Tremonti, Scott Phillips, Brian Marshall
What to Listen to: With Arms Wide Open, Higher, One Last Breath
A band that has experienced a renaissance over these past few years, if Creed’s induction would happen, now would be the time! The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame love when artists are fresh in the public’s mind. Look at Kate Bush when she was inducted; it was at the height of Stranger Things’ hype. Now, CUE THE SILLY SCOTT STAPP IMPRESSIONS!
37. Joe Walsh/James Gang
Year Eligible: 1998 Category: Performer/Musical Excellence Times Nominated: 0
Members: Joe Walsh, Dale Peters, Jimmy Fox
What to Listen to: Rocky Mountain Way, Life’s Been Good, Funk#49
Now this one may be a bit of a stretch as Joe is already in the Hall as a member of the Eagles, but his work as a solo artist is strong. The Clown Prince of Rock is also well beloved by his peers and well respected in the rock community. But it’ll be a very difficult road to just get Walsh in as a solo act. Maybe if he got in as a member of the James Gang? But that also seems unlikely. We might have to wait awhile before Joe or the Gang are inducted.
36. Korn
Year Eligible: 2020 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 0
Members: Jonathan Davis, James “Munky” Shaffer, Brian “Head” Welch, Reginald “Fieldy” Arvizu, David Silveria, Ray Luzier
What to Listen to: Freak on a Leash, Blind, Coming Undone
The Midwest’s Favorite Band: Korn! All jokes aside, Korn are godfathers of the nu metal craze and continue to tear it up at venues across the country! The band’s music is instantly recognizable for their groove heavy rhythms, dark lyrics, and of course the hip-hop elements they bring to the table. We’ve all sung the breakdown to Freak on a Leash. Don’t say you haven’t. Plus, if the Hall ceremony gets back to playing the end of the night jam they used to do, seeing the group along with other musicians playing Blind would be sick!
35. “Weird Al” Yankovic
Year Eligible: 2005 Category: Musical Excellence Times Nominated: 0
Members: “Weird Al” Yankovic, Rick Derringer, Jim “Kimo” West, Steve Jay, Ruben Valtierra, Jon “Bermuda” Schwartz
What to Listen to: Amish Paradise, Smells Like Nirvana, White & Nerdy or just all of it
An icon in his own right, Weird Al may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but he has garnered so much respect from the music industry with his work. Still going today with touring and new parodies, Al may become the first comedy performer in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Well, he wouldn’t be in the Performer section. I think he would fit better in the Musical Excellence wing as he doesn’t quite fit into the spectrum of the Performer wing. But he still deserves recognition. Oh and also add his backing band in as they are just as important to the parodies as Al is.
34. Anthrax
Year Eligible: 2009 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 0
Members: Scott Ian, Joey Belladonna, Charlie Benante, Frank Bello, Dan Lilker, Neil Turbin, Dan Spitz
What to Listen to: Madhouse, Indians, Caught In A Mosh
The first member of the Big 4 of thrash metal we will talk about on this list, Anthrax came up at the same time as their peers in Metallica, Slayer and Megadeth. But the band differs much from their Big 4 constituents as they not only play faster thanks to their punk influence but also add a bit of levity to their serious sound. Anthrax definitely deserves a spot in the Hall but with many Metal greats still not in, it’ll be a long time.
33. Smashing Pumpkins
Year Eligible: 2016 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 0
Members: Billy Corgan, Jimmy Chamberlin, James Iha, D’arcy Wretzky
What to Listen to: Bullet With Butterfly Wings, Today, Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness (album)
It’s hard to describe the sound of the Smashing Pumpkins as it varies from album to album. And that’s what makes them so special. Formed in Chicago in 1988, the band has used its various influences to inspire its sound. Ranging from alt rock and prog to jazz and synth, the Pumpkins dominated the charts in the mid-90s and continue to thrive to this day!
32. Tool
Year Eligible: 2018 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 0
Members: Maynard James Keenan, Adam Jones, Danny Carey, Justin Chancellor, Paul D’Amour
What to Listen to: Schism, The Pot, Stinkfist
Visual art and prog titans, Tool has been a major player in the metal world since the 90s and continues to sell out shows when they tour. Another reason for those shows selling out are the visual aspects of the performances. Just imagine the induction performance, filled with the visual prowess that the band is known for!
31. Sublime
Year Eligible: 2018 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 0
Members: Bradley Nowell, Eric Wilson, Bud Gaugh
What to Listen to: Sublime (album), What I Got, Badfish
I believe the only band on this list representing ska, but also one of few bands that became super popular AFTER the death of one of its members and AFTER they broke up! With the release of their self-titled album in 1996, EVERYBODY wanted to create that sound, but none could do it like Sublime. Experiencing a resurgence as original lead singer Brad Nowell’s son Jakob took over the frontman duties just a few years ago, it seems like the time for them to enter the Hall may be farther off than we expected. But stranger things have happened.
30. Dead Kennedys
Year Eligible: 2005 Category: Performer/Musical Excellence Times Nominated: 0
Members: Jello Biafra, East Bay Ray, Klaus Flouride, D.H. Peligro
What to Listen to: Holiday in Cambodia, Police Truck, California Über Alles
The kings of the anti-authority themes of punk rock, the Dead Kennedys bring political satire to the forefront of their music. I mean, look at the name of the band. But politics isn’t their only game as they target anything from small town America and yuppies to pop culture and other parts of the punk movement. Their sound can be heard in almost any song written by System of A Down, Green Day and Rage Against the Machine. The fact that they haven’t even been considered once is a crime, but hell they’d probably wouldn’t even show up to the ceremony.
29. Stone Temple Pilots
Year Eligible: 2018 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 0
Members: Scott Weiland, Dean DeLeo, Robert DeLeo, Eric Kretz
What to Listen to: Purple (album), Interstate Love Song, Trippin’ on a Hole in a Paper Heart
A band that just sits outside being considered one of the Big 4 of grunge as they would move on to explore various rock genres. Staying with the original 4 members of their lineup until the firing of frontman Scott Weiland in 2013, STP have created a legacy that cannot be ignored. It’s not a matter of “if” but “when” when it comes to Stone Temple Pilots getting into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
28. Staind
Year Eligible: 2022 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 0
Members: Aaron Lewis, Mike Mushok, Johnny April, Jon Wysocki
What to Listen to: It’s Been Awhile, Outside, So Far Away
Post-grunge icons, Staind broke through the nu metal barrier in the mid to early 2000s with songs like Fade, So Far Away, and of course, It’s Been Awhile. Come on. You sang it to yourself when you read the title. They are a beloved fixture in the rock sphere, but one main factor that may cause them to not be inducted for a long time is lead singer Aaron Lewis’ extremely open political affiliations. So, you Staind fans don’t get your hopes up, cause it’ll be awhile….. wait.
27. Supertramp
Year Eligible: 1996 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 0
Members: Rick Davies, Roger Hodgson, Dougie Thomson, Bob Siebenberg, John Helliwell
What to Listen to: Breakfast in America (album), Give a Little Bit, The Logical Song
Prog Pop geniuses from the UK, Supertramp has been criminally ignored by the Hall for years. Taking over the world in 1979 with their Breakfast in America album, it spawned four Top 10 singles that shaped the band’s more commercial sound after their first few albums didn’t do the greatest. The classic line-up soon dissolved, and the group toured with bits and pieces of that lineup for years until the death of singer Rick Davies in 2025. One day the group will get their due, but it seems every year, bigger and bigger bands just keep getting in the way.
26. Nickelback
Year Eligible: 2022 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 0
Members: Chad Kroeger, Mike Kroeger, Ryan Peake, Daniel Adair, Ryan Vikedal
What to Listen to: How You Remind Me, All the Right Reasons (album), Photograph
Another set of Canada’s favorite sons, Nickelback gave us some of the 2000’s greatest rock radio hits. You couldn’t go anywhere without hearing How You Remind Me or anything off their biggest album All the Right Reasons. Yes, the band has garnered so much hate and vitriol since they exploded in popularity, but you can’t deny the fact that the band has done more than a lot of the other bands on this list. Plus, if we could get the Photograph meme in their video package, I would die happy.
25. Sonic Youth
Year Eligible: 2008 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 0
Members: Thurston Moore, Lee Ranaldo, Kim Gordon, Steve Shelley
What to Listen to: Bull In The Heather, Kool Thing, 100%
Now here’s a choice many of you probably weren’t expecting from us. A band that can be considered widely unknown to many music listeners, but the impact that this band has had on the wider spectrum of music cannot go unnoticed. Inspiring groups like Nirvana and Hole, as well as a variety of 90’s alt rock greats like Dinosaur Jr and Pavement, Sonic Youth began life as an underground music craze that wouldn’t go away, mixing in punk and art rock sounds with the lyrical stylings of Joni Mitchell. The band may be forever dissolved, but you can’t deny the impact they have had.
24. Weezer
Year Eligible: 2020 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 0
Members: Rivers Cuomo, Brian Bell, Matt Sharp, Mikey Welsh, Scott Shriner, Patrick Wilson
What to Listen to: Weezer (Blue Album), Buddy Holly, Island in the Sun
Modern geek rock icons as they have dipped their toes into so many different genres that’s it’s just too hard to nail down what kind of rock band they are! Ask their fans though, and they will give a variety of answers to who Weezer is! Serious but humorous lyrics, tons of hooks, and loud guitars gave this band all the tools to become superstars. And they did! It may not be soon, but one day I believe Weezer will have their Rush moment at the Rock Hall.
23. Disturbed
Year Eligible: 2025 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 0
Members: David Draiman, Dan Donegan, Mike Wengren, Steve Kmak, John Moyer
What to Listen to: Down with The Sickness, Ten Thousand Fists, Sound of Silence
A very interesting entry on this list as the band’s work makes them a worthy enough addition to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. But with the current state of the world and with certain actions lead singer David Draiman has done in the past year or so, it may delay their inevitable entrance into the Hall of Fame.
22. Deftones
Year Eligible: 2021 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 0
Members: Chino Moreno, Stephen Carpenter, Chi Cheng, Abe Cunningham, Frank Delgado
What to Listen to: Around the Fur (album), Be Quiet And Drive (Far Away), Change (In The House Of Flies)
The artsy metal heads of the 90’s, the Deftones brought such a unique blend of shoegaze, alt rock and nu metal to the masses that it’s kind of hard to not include them on this list. Experiencing a bit of a renaissance at the moment, it just seems like a perfect time for the Deftones to get inducted into the Hall of Fame. The only issue is that there are SO MANY more metal bands that still need to make it in before them
21. Slipknot
Year Eligible: 2022 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 0
Members: Corey Taylor, Craig Jones, Mick Thomson, Jim Root, Paul Gray, Alessandro Venturella, Sid Wilson, Joey Jordison, Jay Weinberg, Shawn Crahan, Chris Fehn
What to Listen to: Psychosocial, Duality, Iowa (album)
Giants in today’s metal sphere, Slipknot has created a sound that is uniquely their own. You know a Slipknot song when it comes on the radio with the groove repetition from the guitars and their HEAVY vocal structures. The band has created an iconic image for themselves with not only their music, but also their stage personas. What? You thought we wouldn’t talk about the masks? That identity has become synonymous with the band and doesn’t seem to be going away anytime soon.
20. Pantera
Year Eligible: 2009 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 0
Members: Rex Brown, Phil Anselmo, Dimebag Darrell, Vinnie Paul, Terry Glaze
What to Listen to: Cowboys From Hell, Walk, Cemetery Gates
Pioneers and icons of 90’s heavy metal, Pantera evolved from their glam metal influence of the late 80s before becoming the band we know today. Bringing in heavy guitar riffs, growling vocals and music that just wants to make you mosh, it’s only a matter of time before the group gets in. But there are just a few more groups ahead of them that should make it before hand.
19. Slayer
Year Eligible: 2009 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 0
Members: Tom Araya, Jeff Hanneman, Kerry King, Dave Lombardo
What to Listen to: Raining Blood, Seasons in the Abyss, Angel of Death
Say it with me now! *ahem* SLAAAAAAYYYYYYERRRRRRRRRRR!!!! Good? Awesome! But seriously, Slayer is on a long list of metal giants that haven’t received any love from the Rock Hall even though they are considered one of the Big 4 of Thrash Metal. But they aren’t the last of the Big 4 that we talk about on this list.
18. Ralph J. Gleason
Category: Non-Performer
The co-founder of Rolling Stone magazine, his Rolling Stone other half, Jann Wenner, is already in. So why not Ralph? His work as both a jazz and rock critic helped bring some of the Hall’s greatest inductees to the masses. Jazz is a major factor in the creation of Rock and Roll, so it only seems fair that one of Jazz’s greatest critics gets shown the respect he deserved.
17. Black Flag
Year Eligible: 2004 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 0
Members: Uhhhhhh…..
What to Listen to: Rise Above, My War, Six Pack
One of the first hardcore punk bands and a pioneer of the post-hardcore scene…. The only major detractor for Black Flag is they have a HUGE list of former members that helped define the band’s sound. So, it would be hard to find the definitive Black Flag lineup to induct. Ahh screw it! Put ‘em all in!
16. Megadeth
Year Eligible: 2011 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 0
Members: Dave Mustaine, too many to choose
What to Listen to: Peace Sells, Holy Wars… The Punishment Due, Sweating Bullets
Our third member of the Big 4 of Thrash Metal that has not made it into the R&R HOF, spawned from the front runner of the 4, Metallica, after guitarist Dave Mustaine left the band in the early 80’s. Helping push the genre of Thrash forward with their intricate arrangements and dual lead guitars, Megadeth also helped influence speed and death metal. I mean hell, their bassline intro to Peace Sells was heard on almost every TV in America, as it was used as the intro to MTV News back in the 90s.
15. King Crimson
Year Eligible: 1995 Category: Musical Excellence/Musical Influence Times Nominated: 0
Members: Greg Lake, Robert Fripp, Ian McDonald, Peter Sinfield, Michael Giles
What to Listen to: 21st Century Schizoid Man, The Court of the Crimson King
The ultimate prog band, King Crimson’s use of instrumentation and execution of various genre elements to create their sound helped inspire generations of bands that the impact is still felt to this day. The group may have not been as commercially successful as their successors, but that won’t mean a thing as they would fit neatly into the Musical Excellence wing or the Musical Influence wing.
14. New York Dolls
Year Eligible: 1999 Category: Performer/Musical Influence Times Nominated: 3
Members: David Johansen, Johnny Thunders, Arthur Kane, Sylvain Sylvain, Jerry Nolan
What to Listen to: Personality Crisis, Trash
Early Punk pioneers, the New York Dolls have influenced not only groups from the New York punk scene of the 70’s with their sound and look, but they also helped influence glam rock bands and artists like David Bowie, the Smiths, and Def Leppard. Oh, I also forgot to mention other groups like KISS, Aerosmith, The Clash, The Sex Pistols and so many more to name that we would be here all day. They’ve been nominated 3 times already, and it’s just time to pull the trigger on the Dolls.
13. Ronnie James Dio
Year Eligible: 2009 Category: Performer/Musical Influence Times Nominated: 0
What to Listen to: Holy Diver, The Last in Line, The Mob Rules
One of metal’s most recognizable voices, Ronnie James Dio has fronted many great bands during his time on the mortal plain: Elf, Rainbow, his self-titled band DIO, and of course, Black Sabbath. Dio has not only given us great music, but he also helped popularize one of rock’s greatest symbols and something you see at almost any rock show, the devil horns. The fact that the man who gave us THE HORNS is not in the Hall of Fame is a travesty.
12. Wolfman Jack
Category: Non-Performer
One of if not THE most iconic Radio DJs and voices of his time. The Wolfman has not only hosted multiple radio shows but also pirate radio and music programs like The Midnight Special, helping to bring so many greats to the masses. Wolfman’s contribution to the rock world is still felt as oldies stations will continue to broadcast his classic shows.
11. Motörhead
Year Eligible: 2003 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 1
Members: Lemmy Kilmister, Phil “Philthy Animal” Taylor, “Fast” Eddie Clarke
What to Listen to: Ace of Spades, Born to Raise Hell, No Sleep ’til Hammersmith (album)
Why does Motörhead deserve to be in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame? Well frontman Lemmy said it best: “No Bulls***, no posing. Just music.” Beloved in the metal community, Motörhead brought metal back to the minds of many in the mid-70s and early 80s. I know that all the core members of the band that would’ve been inducted are gone, but just imagine the induction speech we could’ve gotten if Lemmy was still alive? Oh, it would’ve been fantastic
10. Gorillaz
Year Eligible: 2025 Category: Performer/Musical Excellence Times Nominated: 0
Members: Damon Albarn, Jamie Hewlett, 2-D, Murdoc Niccals, Russel Hobbs, Noodle, Ace
What to Listen to: Feel Good Inc, Clint Eastwood, Demon Days (Album)
A very interesting entry on this list. Not in terms of music and their influence, that goes without being said. But it’s for how and who would be inducted as members of the band. Would it be the creators Damon Albarn and Jamie Hewlett? Or the virtual members? Or both? If they got in, this would make them the first animated group to be inducted into the Rock Hall.
9. Pixies
Year Eligible: 2013 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 0
Members: Black Francis, Joey Santiago, Kim Deal, David Lovering
What to Listen to: Where Is My Mind?, Here Comes Your Man, Monkey Gone to Heaven
A group WAY ahead of their time as the Pixies gave us the alt rock sound of the 90’s, in the 80’s! Yes, it was the late 80’s but still! The original band lasted just a few years, but their impact helped inspire groups like Nirvana, Radiohead, and Weezer. Called “an unorthodox marriage of surf music and punk rock,” the Pixies’ sound is uniquely their own, using all the members’ influences to create it.
8. Alice in Chains
Year Eligible: 2016 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 0
Members: Layne Staley, Jerry Cantrell, Mike Inez, Sean Kinney, Mike Starr, William DuVall
What to Listen to: Man in the Box, Rooster, Dirt (album)
Now that Soundgarden finally got in in 2025, Alice in Chains is the only one left of the Big 4 Grunge bands left to be honored. Known for their expert blend of metal, prog, funk and more, AiC took Seattle by storm in the early 90’s with their albums Facelift and Dirt. I don’t really need to explain anything else as to why Alice in Chains deserves the nod, but with how long it took for Soundgarden to officially make it in, we could be waiting quite some time before AiC gets their due.
7. The Wrecking Crew
Year Eligible: 1986 Category: Musical Excellence Times Nominated: 0
Members: SO. MANY.
The session musicians that were behind almost any pop and rock song that came out of California between the 60’s & 70’s, the fact that The Wrecking Crew hasn’t been honored in its entirety is beyond crazy. As of this blog, only six members have been inducted: Drummers Hal Blaine and Earl Palmer in 2000, guitarist James Burton in 2001, saxophonist Steve Douglas in 2003, keyboardist Leon Russell in 2011, and bassist Carol Kaye in 2025. I understand why the Crew haven’t been added because of the enormity of the group with 40+ core members, but they all deserve a spot together. Hey, if the Musicians Hall of Fame can induct the entire Crew, why can’t the Rock Hall?
6. Hilly Kristal
Category: Non-Performer
Possibly one of the most important figures in the punk and new wave boom of the 70s & 80s as well as the original owner of the two movements most hallowed hall: CBGB. Hilly Kristal and his nightclub were a key factor in bringing us so many greats like the Ramones, Blondie, Patti Smith and Talking Heads. All members of the R&RHOF. It’s utterly shameful that Hilly wasn’t inducted when he was alive. Hell, the second awning of CBGB is in the lobby of the R&R HOF’s museum in Cleveland!
5. Lester Bangs
Category: Non-Performer
Called “America‘s greatest rock critic”, Lester Bangs helped not only introduce the world to some amazing groups that would change history but also help influence new generations of music critics with his at time philosophical musings about the state of rock and roll at the time! Now he probably would be VERY outspoken against the Hall of Fame if he were alive today, but the influence he brought rock should NOT go unnoticed.
4. Jethro Tull
Year Eligible: 1994 Category: Musical Excellence Times Nominated: 0
Members: Ian Anderson, uhhhhh
What to Listen to: Aqualung (album), Locomotive Breath, Teacher
The struggle with Jethro Tull getting in the HOF is the constant lineup changes throughout the group’s lifetime. Finding the definitive lineup for induction is probably the hardest part. The group was just a driving force for lead singer Ian Anderson, and at this point, it may just be Anderson who’s inducted into the Hall. But Anderson without his band just doesn’t fit the Performer category, so slipping him into the Musical Excellence category at this point would make much more sense. Still, the fact that it hasn’t been done yet is a shame.
3. Blink-182
Year Eligible: 2019 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 0
Members: Mark Hoppus, Tom DeLonge, Travis Barker
What to Listen to: Enema of the State (album), All the Small Things, First Date
The Kings of Pop Punk, Blink-182’s sound is what many think of when it comes to that late-90’s/early 2000’s pop punk sound: Guitar riffs, lyrics about being a teenager, sexually charged innuendo, and songs that sound at home at a skate park. That sound and their playful use of music videos helped the band skyrocket into success and brought pop-punk back! Now the question is, would it just be Tom, Mark, and Travis that got the induction, or would they also include former members like Scott Raynor and Matt Skiba? Time will tell.
2. Linkin Park
Year Eligible: 2025 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 0
Members: Chester Bennington, Mike Shinoda, Brad Delson, Dave Farrell, Joe Hahn, Rob Bourdon
What to Listen to: Hybrid Theory (album), In the End, Numb
How the hell did this band not even get nominated the first year they could get in? How?! Since the death of singer Chester Bennington, it only seems a matter of time before Linkin Park would be honored in the Hall. But with the addition of Emily Armstrong, LP has received a new lease on life as a band and possibly an even longer time before the band is inducted. Time will tell.
1. Motley Crue
Year Eligible: 2007 Category: Performer Times Nominated: 0
Members: Vince Neil, Mick Mars, Nikki Six, Tommy Lee
What to Listen to: Kickstart My Heart, Shout at the Devil, Dr. Feelgood
The biggest, glaring omission out of anyone on this list. A band that capitalized on the hair metal craze of the 80’s. The one and only: Motley Crue. Rock’s bad boys, Crue themselves have no idea why they haven’t even been nominated for the HOF yet. With peers like GNR, Bon Jovi, and Def Leppard already in, it just seems like it’s only a matter of time before Crue gets in. Hopefully Vince can get some vocal training for the performance part of the ceremony.
And that’s our HUGE list! Anyone we missed? Let us know in the comments!
