With this selection, we approach an artist who we just couldn’t figure out where to place; or even if we should place him at all. Was John Coltrane right for the Roots and Early Influence category? We didn’t think so as his greatest success and period of influence was simultaneous with the British Invasion. Does Jazz have a viable place in the Hall? We think so, as Miles Davis is in and many a Rock genre is Jazz infused. Besides, if any Jazz great had a “Rock Star” quality, it was John Coltrane.

When the world first discovered Peter Gabriel it was as the eccentric and flamboyant lead singer of Genesis. After splitting with Genesis and starting a solo career, Gabriel moved away from the Progressive Rock sound and was able to create radio friendly songs that still kept true to his eccentric nature. Gabriel was also able to incorporate his work into the video medium, creating groundbreaking videos (Shock the Monkey, Sledgehammer, Digging in the Dirt for example) that pushed the visual medium. His main focus of late has been the production and expansion of World Music showing that music truly is the great common denominator.

On the surface The Moody Blues appear to have a Hall worthy resume so when we initially put this list together it surprised us to find that they were not already inducted. As we learn more about the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction practice it would now surprise us if they never got in.

There has been a lot of debate as to whether Hip Hop belongs in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. To us at NIHOF, we believe it does belong and with the past inductions of Grandmaster Flash and Run D.M.C., it is clear that the Rap question has been answered. Had we launched this site two years ago, Run D.M.C. would have made our top ten, but with that being said, the man who predates Run D.M.C. and The Beastie Boys (a top ten selection) will likely have a secure spot in our top twenty until his induction.