Electro pioneers Depeche Mode, rapper Tupac Shakur and krautrock originators Kraftwerk are among a group of 19 artists nominated for induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame.
The nominations are drawn up by fans and an international group of music business executives, artists and historians. To be eligible, acts music have released their first recording at least 25 years ago. The list will be voted on by industry experts and fans, with the 2017 inductees to be revealed in December.
Inclusion in the list represents good news for Depeche Mode, in the wake of the trio announcing a new album and tour for next year, including their first stadium show in 20 years.
Also among the initial selection are prog rockers Yes, protest singer Joan Baez, funk star Chaka Khan and pop veteran Janet Jackson. Tupac Shakur's nomination follows last year's induction of influential Californian rap group NWA, who were the fifth hip-hop act ever to be voted in.
NWA’s induction last year proved controversial in some quarters, with commentators debating their ‘rock ‘n’ roll credentials’ and, prior to the ceremony, the group having differences of opinion with organisers about how it would unfold. Onstage at New York’s Barclay Center, Ice Cube said, ““The question is are we rock’n’roll?” Ice Cube asked. “I say, you goddamn right we are. It’s not an instrument or a style of music, it’s a spirit. It’s been going since the blues, jazz, bebop, heavy metal, punk rock and yes, hip-hop. What connects us all is that spirit. Rock ’n’ roll is not conforming to the people who came before but creating your own path in life. That is rock ’n’ roll and that is us. Rock ’n’ roll is NWA.”
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