The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

I have been to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame three times, and each time it's a thrill! What I like most about it is that it covers the entire history of rock and roll.

As you walk in through the front you are in a wide open glass pyramid designed by renowned architect I.M. Pei. The large area has had cars from U2's Zoo TV concert tour suspended from the ceiling and inflatable props from The Wall. And, as one would expect, there is rock music from all eras constantly playing in the background.

There are interactive displays, movies, and special exhibits. The Jon Lennon exhibit was incredible, and heart-wrenching. Seeing the cracked, blood-stained glasses he wore when he was murdered caused me to break down right in the middle of it all.

Downstairs, in the museum, is where you will see most of the items related to different artists. Instruments, automobiles, personal effects, stage props and outfits from the legends of rock and roll are all there to be seen. On a personal note, I found it humbling to see just how skinny some of these rock stars were in their prime.

The actual Hall of Fame has small video screens embedded in the wall in a quiet room. Each rotates a few different inductees. It is done tastefully and lends some weight to the importance of being inducted.

Now, for my least favorite part. The nominating committee is now out of touch with what rock and roll is all about. They have made it more about bringing in revenue, instead of keeping the flame of rock and roll alive. I like all kinds of music, but why hasn't Alice Cooper (just one example) been inducted. He's been recording since the mid-1960s and is still going strong today. He was also a trendsetter and an influence on many artists that followed.

In the words of Ian Hunter, "Cleveland Rocks!", but if they keep going down their current path they will continue to lose out to those who understand the true spirit of rock and roll.