As one of the most successful Southern Rock bands, .38 Special’s brand of Southern Fried Pop was a successful recipe for success in the 80’s. Basically a cross between Lynyrd Syknyrd and Arena Rock, .38 Special’s playful hits found a wide variety of fans as they could appeal to Hard Rock, Country and Pop crowds. Their drawback was that they were not considered a “deep” enough band, and with Skynyrd and the Allmans already in, the debt to Southern Rock may be filled with bands that the Hall considers more textured.

Perhaps way ahead of their time, Camper Van Beethoven was merging whatever styles they felt like and was one of the darlings of the underground scene of the 1980’s. The styles they merged ranged anywhere from various World Music influences, Punk, Ska, Folk and virtually anything else they wished to. The California band was absurdly creative and was a very fun band to watch. Had they been a little more serious lyrically it is possible that they may have been perceived less campy and their musicianship would have been featured more prominently, but without that irreverence it just wouldn’t have been the same band.

Although they were though of us primarily as a British New Wave band, ABC actually drew from a lot of American R&B to create their music. This sleek amalgamation was created some of the catchier Synth Pop of the era which also charted well. Many of the New Wave associated bands had a short shelf life, though ABC had a fairly decent run. They didn’t make it to the 90’s, but reflection of their era has generated new respect for them.

Generally the Singer/Songwriter draws much critical acclaim and praise, but in the case of Harry Chapin his popularity far outweighed the critical top ten lists. Chapin was the late season “Hawkeye from M*A*S*H” as his oversensitive and maudlin lyrics struck a chord with many fans and turned away others with his sappiness. However, the fans that Chapin did have were among the most devoted of the Singer/Songwriter genre and if that counts for something than the Hall could come calling.