MusicWhy the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame will not change its name, second presidentJohn Sykes defended that rock and roll encompasses all musical genres and guaranteed that choices are democraticBy Editorial Staff

Since its foundation, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame generates a series of diverse opinions, ranging from celebration of music and artists to harsh criticism. But the president John Sykesin charge of the institution since 2020, argues that the annual ceremony has become one of the most prestigious honors in the contemporary music scene.

“Artists care a lot about getting in because there aren’t many of their peers there,” he explained.

Under the command of Sykesthe Rock and Roll Hall of Fame has undergone significant changes, much of it in response to widespread criticism. It was in this context, for example, that more women began to be honored. Names like Mary J. Blige, Cher and Dionne Warwick are part of the class of 2024, in addition to an expansion in the definition of what is considered rock and roll (via Vulture).

However, a mystery remains: what are the actual procedures that take place during nominating committee meetings? In the name of transparency, Sykes detailed the selection process and the disputes that arise when different members defend their preferred choices. He compares this dynamic to a democratic system, even though it can often seem chaotic.

My job is to respect everyone’s opinion, allow disagreements and accept the decision made by peers. Everyone has a voice, but music is subjective and there will always be questions about who was or wasn’t chosen.”

With the new approach to what defines “rock and roll,” many argue that the name of the institution should be changed to the Music Hall of Fame, a more comprehensive description. The president welcomes this point of view, but disagrees:

Some people don’t understand the deep meaning of rock and roll. In the 1950s, this was all-encompassing – it was real ‘gumbo’, as they say. Missy Elliot. So when I hear someone suggest changing the name, I see that rock and roll already covers all that territory; Instead of abandoning the nomenclature, we must better communicate its origins and its real meaning.”

Sykes share an anecdote Jay-Zwho upon being inducted commented: “Rock is dead; it should be called the Hip-Hop Hall of Fame”. Arguing that iconic artists like Little Richard and Chuck Berry influenced several musical genres, the president gave a categorical answer: “Hip-hop is rock and roll”.

Regarding committee meetings, Sykes describes the environment as a mix between intellectual conversation and fierce competition. The discussions are intense and prolonged, involving around 30 members made up of artists, journalists and critics. “There is no possibility of manipulating the result; decisions are taken democratically”, he guaranteed.

He also explained that there are no fixed rules regarding the term length of committee members. However, it emphasizes the importance of maintaining a diverse group that adequately represents contemporary artists and their contributions to the musical genre.

Finally, Sykes reinforced that it is normal for some artists to express discontent at not being recognized. According to him, the limited space for inductions annually results in some frustrations, but there is always the possibility of recognition in later editions.

The future of Rock and Roll Hall of Fame may include new categories to recognize not just artists, but also those around them who have impacted the music genre over the years. Sykes ends by saying: “The important thing is to ensure that all those who deserve it are remembered.”