Although it is often debated whether Bad Brains was the first Hardcore Punk of note, few can argue that they were among the elite. Bad Brains didn’t just play fast, they played well. They fused Punk with Reggae but really they were capable of playing any style at all. Content with their status as a cult band, Bad Brains never seemed to attempt to reach the big time, though bands they influenced (Living Colour & Fishbone for example) were able to do so on some level. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame likely won’t look their way, but chances are that someone they inspired will.

As one of the few American bands who stood up to the emerging Heavy Metal scene from England, The California based group Montrose was another on this list whose influence certainly outweighed their success. Unfortunately, as soon as Montrose tasted any kind of real stardom, they imploded before they could reach a bigger audience. Despite their short run, Montrose proved to be a vital cog in the American Heavy Metal explosion that was about to arrive.

It’s funny that the best chance Gary “U.S.” Bonds has to get into the Hall may be based on his relationship and de facto endorsement from Bruce Springsteen. Should Bonds do get in; he does have sufficient merit based on his early 60’s work that was the precursor to Frat Rock. His brief run though may not have been spectacular enough to get him in the Hall despite how strong is endorsements are.

The Bullet Points:

Eligible Since:

1986

Country of Origin:

U.S.A. (Jacksonville, FL)

Nominated In:

Never

NIHOF’s Favorite Album:

On the Line (1982)

NIHOF’s Favorite Song:

Quarter to Three (Single, 1961)

When you fly the flag of the Blues, many Rock and Roll pundits tend to take notice. For various reasons, Robert Cray was noticed by the critics and Blues followers, but he never seemed to gain the respect like those who came before him.