There was a time when the difference between pop music and rock’n’roll music was as clear-cut as the difference between Frank Sinatra and Buddy Holly.
But times have changed, apparently.
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame has just inducted its 2008 group of “rock” stars, chief among them, Madonna. To be nominated for induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame this year, performers needed to have released their debut singles in 1982 or earlier.
While there is no arguing that Madonna is probably the biggest pop star in the world (particularly now that Michael Jackson is completely bonkers), is she really a rock star?
At a record store, you certainly wouldn’t look for the Material Girl in the rock section.
At the induction ceremony, two of Madonna’s hit songs were performed by punk icon Iggy Pop–who is not a member of the Hall of Fame. Something is very wrong with this picture: a pop star is in, but a legitimate rock legend is out?!
This year’s other inductees seem more obviously suited to the honor, including John Mellencamp, the Ventures, Leonard Cohen and the Dave Clark Five.
Other artists nominated this year, but not inducted, include disco star Donna Summer and rap/hip-hop artists the Beastie Boys and Afrika Bombaataa.
Of course, it could be argued that none of these groups are “rock and roll” groups either—with the possible exception of the Beastie Boys, who began as a punk outfit.
But Donna Summer? Get real! Is there anything LESS rock’n’roll than disco? Probably not.
Do these artists deserve to be in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame?
What is rock and roll? Is Madonna a “rock star?”
Leave a comment and tell us what you think.
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