2021 Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame Winners

The 2021 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame ceremony… oh boy! It was a night of iconic headliners. And some… well, let's just say my grandma was asking, "Who are they, dear?"

The Big Names

First, let's talk about the obvious legends. Tina Turner finally got her solo due! About time, right?

And Carole King! Seriously, if you haven't belted out "I Feel the Earth Move" in your car, are you even alive? Of course, she deserves this award.

Then there's The Go-Go's! Finally in. These ladies delivered catchy hits. "We Got The Beat" still rocks hard. They should've been in ages ago.

My Unpopular Opinion Section

Okay, deep breath. Here we go. Now, I love Foo Fighters. I do. Dave Grohl is a rock god. But... was it really their time this year?

Feels a tad early, doesn't it? Like, let's let the dust settle a bit more. Give them another decade of awesome. Then, BAM! Instant legend.

Jay-Z… Okay, this is where I might lose some people. He's undeniably talented. A lyrical genius. But is it rock and roll? That's the question.

I'm not saying he's not worthy of some hall of fame. But perhaps… the Hip-Hop Hall of Fame? Just a thought!

Musical Influence Award - Making Waves

This category honors those who shaped rock and roll. But maybe aren't performers in the traditional sense.

Kraftwerk are undeniably influential. Pioneers of electronic music, for sure. But, sometimes, influential doesn’t always translate to enjoyable for my ears.

LL Cool J is a great choice. He helped bridge the gap between rock and rap. Plus, who doesn't love a little "Mama Said Knock You Out?"

And Billy Preston. This man played with everyone. From The Beatles to The Rolling Stones. Deservedly recognized.

The "Early Influence" Category

For those who paved the way back in the early days of rock.

This year's honoree was Charley Patton. A true blues legend. Sadly, I wasn’t overly familiar with his music but, I learned he was considered the "Father of the Delta Blues".

Ahmet Ertegun Award

This is for non-performers who have had a huge impact on the music industry.

Clarence Avant got the nod this year. "The Black Godfather". Seems like a pretty cool guy. But outside of knowing his music industry accomplishments, I honestly had no clue who he was prior to this ceremony.

Look, everyone has their own taste. It's what makes music so great. Maybe you think I'm totally wrong. That's fine! But honestly, this year’s class of honorees wasn't my favorite.

Maybe next year will bring more agreeable inductees. Or maybe I'll just keep yelling at my TV about how Def Leppard isn’t in already. A man can dream!