The first of our list from the continent of Africa may not have had as big an impact on the world of Rock and Roll, but to those who view music as a global community, Fela Kuti’s contributions to the world of music was a huge one. His pioneering of the Afro Beat musical style was large; though not as large as the persona he seemed to create. As important to African music as Bob Marley was to Jamaica, Fela Kuti is the biggest wild card of a list of wild cards to make the Hall.

Although it is often debated whether Bad Brains was the first Hardcore Punk of note, few can argue that they were among the elite. Bad Brains didn’t just play fast, they played well. They fused Punk with Reggae but really they were capable of playing any style at all. Content with their status as a cult band, Bad Brains never seemed to attempt to reach the big time, though bands they influenced (Living Colour & Fishbone for example) were able to do so on some level. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame likely won’t look their way, but chances are that someone they inspired will.

As one of the few American bands who stood up to the emerging Heavy Metal scene from England, The California based group Montrose was another on this list whose influence certainly outweighed their success. Unfortunately, as soon as Montrose tasted any kind of real stardom, they imploded before they could reach a bigger audience. Despite their short run, Montrose proved to be a vital cog in the American Heavy Metal explosion that was about to arrive.

It’s funny that the best chance Gary “U.S.” Bonds has to get into the Hall may be based on his relationship and de facto endorsement from Bruce Springsteen. Should Bonds do get in; he does have sufficient merit based on his early 60’s work that was the precursor to Frat Rock. His brief run though may not have been spectacular enough to get him in the Hall despite how strong is endorsements are.

The Bullet Points:

Eligible Since:

1986

Country of Origin:

U.S.A. (Jacksonville, FL)

Nominated In:

Never

NIHOF’s Favorite Album:

On the Line (1982)

NIHOF’s Favorite Song:

Quarter to Three (Single, 1961)