Dubbed the Mexican Madonna, it can only be imagined what heights the career of Selena would have reached had she not have been killed two weeks before her 24^th birthday. Though she was not widely known in the Anglo world prior to her death, she was a massive star in Texas and the undisputed queen of Tejano Music. She was on the cusp of an English language breakthrough before her death and could have potentially conquered that world the same as she did the Latin one. Still considered an icon, it is not impossible that the Hall may recognize her accomplishments (and potential ones).

Queen Latifah may not have been the first female rapper, nor historically speaking even the best one, but she was the first of her genre to become a certifiable feminist icon. With her powerful lyrics and unarguable charisma, Queen Latifah transcended easily into roles on television or film. This may have prevented her from focusing on music; however she did pave the way for other female Rappers to follow. Realistically, she probably did not do enough for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, but her high celebrity status could propel her into a nomination.

As the leaders of the Lo-Fi movement in the 1990’s, Pavement developed a sizable cult following and were consistently among the top of critic’s “best of” lists during that decade. They have been called the definition of Independent Rock in the 90’s and it is easy to understand why when listening to their music. Their cryptic lyrics, penchant for feedback made them superstars in the critical music world; though not in the commercial world. Their high level of respect might be enough to counter their lack of sales (see the Velvet Underground) and a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction is possible.

Trent Reznor (Basically, the only official member of Nine Inch Nails) never laid claim to creating the Industrial genre. We will say however, that this is the man that popularized it and gave it just enough if a pop sensibility to make it popular in the early to mid 90’s. As this was the decade where everything “Alternative” was given a chance, the brooding star took advantage of the opportunity and generated some of the best live performances of the past two decades.