Not in Hall of Fame

It seems that every musical genre has a representative that is dubbed the “thinking man’s” band. Some have bestowed that label for the Post Punk/New Wave set to XTC. In retrospect, that may be an accurate description for this English group.

XTC earned that label with possibly the most critically praised New Wave music that merged politicized lyrics with a tinge of New Wave, Art Rock and melodic Pop hooks.They developed a strong cult following and a few minor hits though mainstream success eluded them which was not helped by lead singer Andy Partridge’s stage fright which prevented them excessive touring.Considering the love they have from the critics, they have to be considered a dark horse contender for Cleveland.

FilmStrip Rock.XTC

www.xtcidearecords.co.uk

Should XTC be in the Hall of Fame?

Definitely put them in! - 90.5%

Maybe, but others deserve it first. - 5%

Probably not, but it wouldn't be the end of the world. - 3%

No opinion. - 0%

No way! - 1.5%

The Bullet Points

Previous Rank: 2011: #153
2012: #138
2013: #123
2014: #115
2015: #107
2016: #95
Eligible Since: Friday, 03 January 2003
Country of Origin: United Kingdom (Swindon, England)
Why they will get in: Critical acclaim and influence are there.
Why they won't get in: They have little star power and although they have support they are not the most vocal.
Nominated in: Never
Essential Albums: White Music (1978)
Drums and Wires (1979)
English Settlement (1982)
Skylarking (1986)
Our Five Favorite Songs as Chosen by Each Member of the NIHOF Committee: This is Pop? (From White Music, 1978)
Making Plans for Nigel (From Drums and Wires, 1979)
Generals and Majors (From Black Sea, 1980)
The Man Who Sailed Around the World (From Skylarking, 1986)
Dear God (From Skylarking, 1986)