They were dark and moody and one of the early stars of New York City’s No Wave scene. Swans took Noise Rock and slowed it down creating a murky texture of music that was beautiful as it could be depressing. With future albums, Swans proved their ability as musicians as they utilized various other styles but still created albums that could be best described as dark and pretty. A strange feat by a strange band indeed.

A Hard Rocker who was on the fringes of Metal and Album Rock, Billy Squier exhibited a series of success during the first half of the 80’s. With some MTV success and a few singles to his credit, Squier was not able to keep momentum going and his career essentially fizzled out. Having said that, Squier was a solid guitarist and with a few Hard Rock hits to his credit, he was able to leave a mark on the music world.

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.