Potentially the greatest musical icon since Elvis Presley, there was nobody on the planet who has not heard of Michael Jackson. Despite how bizarre his actions were, even those who would say that could not stand him would respect his musical ability. If even those who hate you think you are a pure talent, you can imagine how those who loved him felt.

To some this is a controversial induction, but Madonna’s long and fruitful career is a blueprint on how to stay relevant and productive over multiple decades. She may be primarily a Rock and Dance star, but the long running chameleon has delved into so many genres she should not be pigeonholed. Despite what we think many of our readers think, we feel she deserved to be a first year inductee.

The Mamas and the Papas created beautiful Folk Pop harmonies that made them accessible to both the mainstream and counter culture of their day. California Dreamin’ itself is good enough for them to be inducted.

Inducted in 1998. From New York City, New York, U.S.A. 

Martha and the Vandellas rose to fame under the Motown label with a more R&B driven sound then the other girl groups on their label. As such, their music was some of the finest Rock and Roll to come out of Detroit.