With the music world looking for Alternative superstars, the table was set for the Offspring’s brand of Punk, Pop, and Metal to be a hit. They came across like overnight sensations (they weren’t) and their 1994 album, Smash, remains the best-selling independent album in history. They would become known for their sarcastic and fun lyrics and always rooted their themes that were easily identifiable. This made them very accessible for a band that was still labeled as Alternative. The question that the Hall of Fame voters will pose is was this band “serious” enough for them to be included.

Like many successful Jam bands, Phish enjoys a devoted fan base, and like any top improvisational group, the genres they draw from are quite diverse. Each Phish concert can count on Rock, Jazz, Progressive Rock, Bluegrass, Reggae, Country and Blues infusions throughout the sets, and they always seem to draw a crowd as unique as their music. As such, comparisons to the Grateful Dead are commonplace and if any band could come close to drawing any kind of accurate comparison (in terms of culture, though not necessarily in terms of musical style) it would be Phish). Although they do have a massive following, a Phish catalogue does not have any traditional “hits” and there might be an incorrect assumption that the “Jam Band” category is filled in Cleveland.

From the Heartland of America, Melissa Etheridge’s initial efforts drew comparisons to other American icons like Bruce Springsteen, John Mellencamp, and the equally raspy voiced, Janis Joplin. Although, those albums were successful, it was after she disclosed her sexual orientation that she became an icon herself, as her earnestness in her lyrics took on a new level. Musically, she may not have done enough to get into the Hall, but her gender does work in her favor as Cleveland lacks female talent. As the artists she is often compared to, are already inducted, Etheridge’s place in the Hall is very possible.       

From the ashes of the Proto Grunge band, Green River, Mudhoney was formed and in a few ways was Grunge’s first success story. The Seattle band picked up the local sound and was the first to have any real taste of success for the burgeoning Sub Pop label. With an influx of ears turning to College and Underground music, Mudhoney was a band that helped crack open doors that their Seattle brethren crashed open. Time has shone a solid light on this band, and though they are not likely Cleveland bound, their place in music history is entrenched.