60. The New York Dolls

A common thread on this list is musicians who are ahead of their time. We can’t help but think there may be no other band on this list that defines that opening sentence better than the New York Dolls, who not only helped define a sound but a look as well.

The New York Dolls became the blueprint for a lot of Punk bands that would follow; they had the dirty androgynous glam look with the crash-and-burn sound of rebellious Rock and Roll. Although they did not stay on the scene past two albums, a couple of years later would see bands emerge in both the New York and London scene who borrowed a lot from the brief but tumultuous band. As original Punk disciples, they will fall into the category of The Stooges and MC5 as bands with limited lives but long-lasting influence. Still, their chances are fairly decent, and as long as a Proto Punk or Punk outfit keeps getting nominated every year, the Dolls have a good shot to be that representative.

The New York Dolls

www.nydolls.org

Should The New York Dolls be in the Hall of Fame?

Definitely put them in! - 74.5%

Maybe, but others deserve it first. - 11.7%

Probably not, but it wouldn't be the end of the world. - 9.6%

No opinion. - 0%

No way! - 3.2%

The Bullet Points

Previous Rank: 2010: #62
2011: #64
2012: #66
2013: #64
2014: #60
2015: #67
2016: #72
Eligible Since: Friday, 01 January 1999
Country of Origin: U.S.A. (New York City)
Why they will get in: Influential American punk bands always have a shot.
Why they won't get in: They have been up for nomination three times, and still no dice. Despite the recent nominations, they have no momentum.
Nominated in: 2001, 2021 & 2022
Essential Albums: New York Dolls (1973)
Too Much, Too Soon (1974)
Our Five Favorite Songs as Chosen by Each Member of the NIHOF Committee: Personality Crisis (From New York Dolls, 1973)
Vietnamese Baby (From New York Dolls, 1973)
Jet Boy (From New York Dolls, 1973)
Babylon (From Too Much, Too Soon, 1974)
Puss ‘N’ Boots (From Too Much, Too Soon, 1974)