Although the Surfaris are predominantly only remembered for one song (Wipe Out), that song featured one of the most basic yet powerful guitar riffs of all time and more importantly one of the first (and still to this day one of the best) drum solos ever. Guitarists and drummers to this day still cut their teeth to that song and though they did not have an extensive album catalogue it was a solid one and they were one of the better Surf bands ever. The question is can they get in on the strength of their biggest hit.

With beautiful harmonies and as one of the first political Folk groups of memory, there can be little doubt that the threesome established their place in musical history. The question is does the most successful Folk group of the 60’s have enough Rock and Roll credibility to get into the Hall? Unlike Dylan or even Joan Baez, Peter, Paul & Mary may have had some songs about anti-establishment ideas, but they look like your aunt and uncles. They have yet to receive a nomination, and the Hall may remain reluctant a group that seems so mellow.

With their spoken word Raps and politically charged anthems, The Last Poets were one of the first steps in what would become Hip Hop. Their main focus was raising the awareness of African Americans and challenging the status quo. As one of the first proto Rap artists of note they have a better shot than you would think. We have to wonder though if the Last Poets are completely happy with the state of Rap Music today.

The Bullet Points:

Eligible Since:

1995

Country of Origin:

U.S.A. (New York City)

Nominated In:

Never

NIHOF’s Favorite Album:

This is Madness (1971)

NIHOF’s Favorite Song:

The world of Progressive Rock brought forth many successful bands. Gentle Giant did have a devoted group of fans, a wide array of technical skills but for whatever reason never reached the commercial success of bands like Genesis, Yes or ELP. For years they always seemed on the cusp of a breakout and although that didn’t happen, many in Progressive Rock circles have always applauded Gentle Giant for their experimentation and skills. Of course, commercially successful Progressive Rock bands are struggling to crack the Hall, so the chances of Gentle Giant are far from gigantic at all.