National Post (National Edition)
`Diversity and depth'
Mary J. Blige, Tina Turner, Jay-Z, LL Cool J, Foo Fighters, Dionne Warwick and the late Nigerian musical icon Fela Kuti are among the those selected for the 2021 list of nominees to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
Blige, who has been previously nominated, was among the list of 16 nominees revealed by the organization on Wednesday, some of whom may be inducted into the hall. That announcement is expected in May.
Jay-Z and the Foo Fighters both released debut albums in 1996, landing them in the eligibility zone that requires nominees have a catalogue dating back at least 25 years. Nominees making their first appearance on the ballot despite being previously eligible include Kuti and Warwick, in addition to Iron Maiden and The Go-Go's.
Others on the list include Carole King, Kate Bush, Devo, Chaka Khan, Todd Rundgren, The New York Dolls and Rage Against the Machine.
“This remarkable ballot reflects the diversity and depth of the artists and music the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame celebrates,” said John Sykes, the chairman of the hall's foundation.
“These nominees have left an indelible impact on the sonic landscape of the world and influenced countless artists that have followed them.”
Music fans can cast their votes for their favourite stars until April 30 on the Rock Hall's website.
The hall is still hoping the COVID situation will improve to allow for a live induction ceremony in the fall, after last year's class had to settle for a recorded HBO special.