Marc Spitz

WITH Brian Eno. At least nominate them. And Bolan, Visconti, Mick Ronson, and oh… let’s say, Joy Fucking Division, the Cure, The Smiths and Depeche Mode while you are at it. I am one of those people who care who gets into the Hall of Fame. Care enough to handicap it with some rock writer friends every year. And ever year I am wrong because I assume that the nominating committee will pay respect to some of the songs that saved my life and not… the lives of hardcore Jackson Browne and James Taylor fans. I am not a denim snob. I love James Taylor and was practically reared on Carole King. But really, man. In the immortal words of Ben Stiller, “What is your glitch?” Is it an aversion to anything remotely camp and English? Did inducting Bowie in ’96 cover that sensibility for all time? Bowie did not show up to that event, as I recall. Perhaps he didn’t want to represent for the entire school. Same way he played down becoming a gay icon when some tried to make him one. That’s a segue- well covered in my book. I have spoken with those who have been snubbed. Some of them, like Black Sabbath, have eventually gotten in. Others, like the Stooges, who were nominated again yesterday, are still waiting. Ron Asheton died before he could get in. I sensed he cared about it a little more than Iggy does. I have encountered board members at parties and drunkenly lobbied on behalf of my beloved outsiders like I was Buggin’ Out from Do The Right Thing. No avail. There are conspiracy theorists who say a band has to politic. Be in the pocket of some of the more powerful trustees. I cannot imagine Morrissey politicking like, ever, but if the Stooges get in this year, some will claim it is because they PLAYED (a shite version of “Ray of Light” but they played). The Hall has made some good calls, inducting the Ramones, R.E.M., U2 and Madonna in their first year of eligibility. And the Clash exhibit down in Soho was killer (I have not been to the Lennon one yet). Their nominations have largely been worthy. Even this year, who can possibly impeach Abba, Donna Summer and Kiss? I mean really. I even agree with RHCP. As polarizing as they are, we forget their importance sometimes. Nirvana AND Pearl Jam opened for those guys in ’91. A few of their songs, “Californication” chief among them, can really get me. But EVERY Roxy song gets me. EVERY Bolan song. EVERY Smiths song. And I am one of many, and many, and many (man). Laura Nyro getting the nod shows some class, but where are OUR bands. Do I need to organize a petition? I will wait one more year, and then it’s on. Oh, and furthermore, why are there no rock writers inducted in the non-musician category along with executives. I think Jan Wenner is the only one. Where’s Lester Bangs or Robert Palmer? How the hell am I ever gonna get in without getting in the rental and driving to Cleveland?