The 30th induction ceremony at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame of Ringo Starr, Joan Jett, and Green Day was an important moment in music this year for me. From a mini-Beatles reunion to a career-spanning club set (marking a return to the stage after a year hiatus) by Green Day, this past weekend saw some jealousy-inducing headlines come out of Cleveland.
Having visited the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum just this past summer, I have fond memories of some of the induction ceremonies highlighted in the facility. So what makes this year seem more important than the past 29 ceremonies?
I think it is a feeling of satisfaction. This year we see the completion of a double-dose of Beatle Power recognized. Ringo Starr finally joined his brethren as solo artists inducted, and is listed now as a multiple time inductee. In a press interview, Yoko Ono admitted he was the most influential Beatle. Talk about Starr power!
Also personally satisfying is seeing one of my favorite bands, Green Day, inducted. During their first year of eligibility, it seems the boys from Oakland would have had to wait a year or two (or at least until September ended), but they made it in. I couldn’t help but let out a cheer when I saw they were nominated. I blasted Welcome to Paradise when I read they would be inducted. I cursed at my phone when I read they were playing a small venue show in Cleveland days before the ceremony and I wouldn’t be there.
Satisfying about Joan Jett’s induction was watching Dave Grohl continue to act like a fanboy around here. Here at ToneCritic, we are excited to be heading to the 4th of July Foo’s show, where Jett is one of the may openers. She is currently also opening for The Who on their North American tour. Every time I hear Bad Reputation I have to rock out. She embodies the spirit of rock, and was a natural selection for induction.
So are you sensing a theme yet? These artists were inspirational to me personally. Unlike the Grammys or the Oscars, I really like that the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame allows the fans to vote. I felt an obligation to vote in my favorite artists for my own personal reasons. Music is something that holds such a personal connection for people. Past years, I didn’t really feel that connection with the inductees as I did this year. Most of my favorite bands had been inducted in years ago, in the early 90’s or late 80’s. Seeing a favorite band get nominated or inducted has been a really satisfying experience.
Who says you can’t get to satisfaction? Class of ’89 Inductees the Rolling Stones.
