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)

When you fly the flag of the Blues, many Rock and Roll pundits tend to take notice. For various reasons, Robert Cray was noticed by the critics and Blues followers, but he never seemed to gain the respect like those who came before him.

Solo careers of the artists of massively successful bands seem to go either way. As successful as John Lennon was, it could be argued that solo efforts of Roger Daltrey is looking to escape a garage sale near you. The first glance may put Robert Plant somewhere in between.