Teena Marie was an anomaly in many ways. As a female Caucasian, she came from a demographic that was not supposed to produce Funk albums, but she did so in a very capable way. As a protégé of Rick James, Marie was not just a singer, but she wrote produced and arranged all of her material. As a female breaking down a barrier and with her exceptional talent, she could be a surprise wildcard entrant to the Hall.

Whether it was with the Fairport Convention, his wife Linda or on his own, Richard Thompson has been credited with the creation of some of the most beautiful Folk music to come out of Britain. His career once he left Fairport, while not as significant, may have been more critically revered. Thompson is rightfully a legend in Britain, but without an impact in the American marketplace he will fall in the same chasm as many other Brits on this list.

Named after a psychotic prostitute, Molly Hatchet was one of the more successful Southern Rock bands of recent memory. The Floridians found their niche with a few radio friendly hits in the late 70’s and early 80’s, and though they were successful they shared Skynyrd and the Allman’s “shadow” with bands like 38 Special, Marshall Tucker and the Atlanta Rhythm Section. Like the other Southern Rock bands, Molly Hatchet could have a shot should the Hall feels another Southern Rock band deserves entry though there appears to be little evidence of that happening.

Though she may be best known for her major radio friendly hit (Chuck E.’s in Love), the career of Rickie Lee Jones was far greater than that. Jones was a consummate musician whose albums span across Pop, R&B, Country Influences and Jazz and her songwriting capabilities were vastly underrated especially to those who knew for that huge aforementioned hit. Her overall career, though not known by the mass audience is well rounded and may gather a look from the Hall.