Likely possessing the worst band name on this list, the Butthole Surfers were a band designed to shock every sense you have. From their bizarre concerts, strange lyrics and experimental fusion of multiple styles the Surfers were never destined to be a mainstream act. Perhaps the most shocking thing about them is that they did achieve a level of commercial success in the mid 90’s; though whether they tried to or not is still up for debate. Regardless, behind their antics was a talented group of musicians whose experimental work inspired more people than one would realize.

Of the Progressive Rock stars that came out of England, few embraced the artistic side of the genre as well as Van Der Graaf Generator. At its core, VDDG was the vehicle for Peter Hammill, whose weird introspection translated well into the musical medium with elaborated textures drawn from diverse genres. Certainly distinct, Hammill may have created a distinct brand of Experimental Progressive Rock, but with his successful peers on the outside looking in, there seems to be no real chance for Van Der Graaf Generator.

Plucked from musical obscurity by Clint Eastwood when he used one of her songs on his film, Play Misty for Me, Roberta Flack’s smooth and soulful voice quickly found audiences on both the Pop and R&B stations. Flack could appeal to any audience and her sophisticated voice and classy exterior made her style of music some of the most romantic and sensual ever done.

Seeming poised for eternal greatness, Fine Young Cannibals had a monster album in the late 80’s that appealed to both mainstream and independent audiences. They never did follow up with anything big; not because they failed but because they never tried. Fine Young Cannibals quietly disappeared and had they stayed together, we can’t help but think they had the potential to be way higher on this list.

The Bullet Points:

Eligible Since:

2010

Country of Origin:

United Kingdom (Birmingham, England)

Nominated In:

Never

NIHOF’s Favorite Album:

The Raw and the Cooked (1989)

NIHOF’s Favorite Song: