In Canada, it could be argued that the most successful home grown Alternative Rock act would be Our Lady Peace.  They always charted well in Canada and with a melodic structure that echoed Classic Rock and a uniquely voiced lead singer (Raine Maida), it does not take Canadians long to identify an OLP song when it appears on the radio.  This is a resume that will get them in the Canadian Hall, but what of Cleveland?  They have penetrated the U.S. market, and with some recognition south of border they have built up a remote possibility for a future induction.  Just a remote one though.

With music that was pure Texas, ZZ Top’s blend of Blues, Hard Rock, and unique Tex Mex influences made them stars in the 70’s.  The 1983 album, Eliminator brought them international stardom when they altered their sound to crack mainstream radio and MTV; a feat they accomplished without alienating their core audience.

A powerful Blues based Rock band, the Yardbirds may be best known for launching the careers of Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck and Jimmy Page.  They did have a string of hits in the mid 60’s that was the beginning of taking guitar rock to new levels with their use of feedback and distortion.  Their place in the Hall can not be argued.

The Ventures were one of the most successful instrumental bands of all time.  It took a long time for them for to be inducted to the Hall, but their qualifications are more than solid.