I know a small number of Rock Critics who cast ballots each year. They agonize over their choices, especially since there are so many worthy candidates.
Perhaps the biggest problem is that Rock is still relatively young (about 50) and has a lineage that's pretty traceable to a serious student of such things.
An artist becomes eligible 25yrs after their first release. Often that first release is the only one folks know (as in the question of Percy Sledge,) or not widely known (ala Buddy Guy.)
What the critics I know rassle w/ is not who had more hit records or more popular, but who had more influence on the growth of the music. Percy Sledge and Buddy Guy fit. So do the others. And so do a lot of folks who probably won't ever get in.
In the beginning of the Hall it was easier -honoring the pioneers. It's gettin' harder now.
I'd like to think the "Board" doesn't worry about TV ratings, but that would be naive'.
I figure those who ballot take it seriously.
After all, it's not a Dick Clark Production.
Bobby Vinton had a bunch of hits, Bobby Goldsboro had a bunch of hits, Bobby Vee had a bunch of hits, Bobby Sherman had a bunch of hits, but Bobby Darin - he moved the music forward.
It is my supreme hope the Hall doesn't turn into a popularity contest. However . . .
The Rez
PS: Have any of you ever heard Gord say, "This is as close as it gets to pushin' my Rock & Roll button." And then he'd nail Sundown right to the back bleechers.
Do love that man!
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It was a Beautiful Rainbow
A Beautiful Time in my Life
A Thing to Share
A Time to Care
To Be Alive
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