The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame has announced its newest inductees, a list that includes Neil Diamond, Tom Waits, and the Alice Cooper Band.
Still no Rush, Iron Maiden, Deep Purple, Judas Priest, Heart, Kiss, Cheap Trick, Def Leppard, etc. What's the eligibility criteria?
To be eligible for induction as an artist (as a performer, composer, or musician) into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the artist must have released a record, in the generally accepted sense of that phrase, at least 25 years prior to the year of induction; and have demonstrated unquestionable musical excellence.
We shall consider factors such as an artist's musical influence on other artists, length and depth of career and the body of work, innovation and superiority in style and technique, but musical excellence shall be the essential qualification of induction.
Ah, now I see why Rush, Iron Maiden, the Priest, etc. aren't in yet. Wait. What?