Alice Cooper Backs Iron Maiden for Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction: ‘They Have Their Own Army Out There

Iron Maiden’s Rock Hall Snub: Alice Cooper Weighs In on Controversial Omission

Despite decades of influence and a dedicated global fanbase, Iron Maiden remains excluded from the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Alice Cooper, himself a 2011 inductee, has voiced his strong disapproval of the band’s continued omission, highlighting a broader debate about the Hall’s evolving criteria.

Alice Cooper Champions Iron Maiden

Alice Cooper minced no words when asked about artists deserving of Rock Hall recognition. “IRON MAIDEN. I mean, come on — IRON MAIDEN. How can you dis IRON MAIDEN? They have their own army out there,” Cooper stated. He underscored the band’s massive following and undeniable impact on the heavy metal genre. Cooper also advocated for Burt Bacharach, stating “burt Bacharach wrote as many hits as THE BEATLES and he’s not in the Hall of Fame, and yet there’s other guys that are in the Hall Of Fame that were writers. that weren’t anywhere near Burt Bacharach. So, Burt Bacharach is certainly something that I would say. “

Genre Boundaries and the Hall’s Evolution

Cooper also addressed the Rock Hall’s increasing inclusion of artists from genres beyond rock, a move that has sparked debate among fans and musicians. He acknowledged the difficulty in comparing artists from different genres, saying, “Yeah, it’s really hard for me to put somebody, let’s say, like Missy Elliott in with THE WHO,” Cooper admitted. “I mean, those are two different worlds.” However, he also noted that the Hall seems to value impact and influence, stating, “If somebody came in and had an impact that wasn’t there before, and that’s why you’ll see some engaging people in the Hall Of Fame.”

He further elaborated on his evolving perspective, mentioning Dolly Parton’s initial reluctance and subsequent rock album. Despite this broadened scope, Cooper maintained, “I would still I would prefer to see an IRON MAIDEN in there before I would see some of these other ones. Joe Cocker [would be good too]. [He] got my vote too [this year].”

Iron Maiden’s Eligibility and Snubs

Iron Maiden has been eligible for Rock Hall induction since 2004, 25 years after the release of their frist album. Yet, they have only been nominated twice, in 2021 and 2023, facing repeated snubs despite their important contributions to music. In 2023, Iron Maiden finished fourth in the fan vote, demonstrating their strong support among fans, yet they weren’t inducted. Other hard rock and metal bands inducted include BLACK SABBATH,LED ZEPPELIN,METALLICA,AC/DC,JUDAS PRIEST,KISS,VAN HALEN,RUSH,GUNS N’ ROSES,and DEEP PURPLE.

According to the Hall of Fame,the Iron Maiden members eligible for induction include the current lineup: Bruce Dickinson (singer),Steve Harris (bassist),Nicko McBrain (drummer),Adrian smith (guitarist),Dave Murray (guitarist),and Janick gers (guitarist),along with former members Dennis stratton (guitarist),Paul Di’Anno (singer),and Clive Burr (drummer).

The broader Implications

Iron Maiden’s exclusion raises questions about the Rock Hall’s criteria and its perception of heavy metal. While some argue for a broader definition of “rock and roll,” others believe that the Hall should prioritize artists who have shaped the genre’s core identity. The debate underscores the subjective nature of artistic merit and the challenges of defining a constantly evolving musical landscape.

what Can Fans do?

• Continue to voice your support: Engage in online discussions and social media campaigns to advocate for Iron Maiden’s induction.
• Support the band’s music: Continue listening to their albums, attending concerts, and purchasing merchandise to demonstrate their enduring popularity.
• contact the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame: Express your opinion directly to the institution through their website or social media channels.

The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame’s mission is to honor artists who have made a significant impact on music history. Whether Iron Maiden will eventually take their place among these legends remains to be seen. Though, the conversation sparked by their continued omission serves as a reminder of the genre’s rich history and its passionate, dedicated fanbase.What do you think? Should Iron Maiden be inducted? Share your thoughts and advocate for your favorite artists!

What factors, besides fan popularity, do you think contribute to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame’s decision-making process?

archyde Exclusive: rock Hall’s Iron Maiden Snub – A Conversation with Music Historian, Dr. Eleanor Vance

The ongoing debate surrounding Iron Maiden’s exclusion from the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame continues to spark controversy. Joining us today is Dr. Eleanor Vance, a renowned music historian specializing in the evolution of rock and metal, to shed some light on this complex issue.

Iron Maiden and the Rock Hall: A Historian’s Viewpoint

Archyde: Dr.Vance, thanks for joining us. Alice Cooper recently voiced his strong disapproval of Iron Maiden’s Rock Hall omission. As a music historian,what’s your take on this?

Dr. vance: It’s a valid point from Cooper. Iron Maiden’s influence on heavy metal is undeniable. They haven’t just sold records; they’ve built a global community. The “Iron Maiden Army,” as it’s known,is a testament to their impact.

Genre Boundaries and Evolving Hall Criteria

Archyde: The Rock Hall has broadened its scope to include genres beyond customary rock. How does this affect bands like Iron Maiden, and what does it say about the Hall’s evolving criteria?

Dr. Vance: That’s the million-dollar question. While inclusivity is vital, the Hall risks losing sight of its core mission: celebrating artists who shaped rock and roll. Blurring the lines can make it harder for genre-defining acts within rock, like Iron Maiden, to get recognized. It becomes an apples-to-oranges comparison, as Cooper mentioned with Missy Elliott and The Who.

Eligibility, Snubs, and Fan Influence

Archyde: Iron Maiden has been eligible since 2004, yet repeated snubs continue. The band actually finished fourth in the fan vote in 2023, which indicates their fans are strongly supportive. What message does the oversight send to both fans and the music industry?

Dr. Vance: The message is muddled, frankly. The fan vote, while important, is clearly not the deciding factor. the Hall emphasizes impact and influence, but Iron Maiden has consistently demonstrated both. The continual snubs can feel like a dismissal of metal’s legitimacy within the broader rock landscape.

The Broader Implications and a Thought-Provoking Question

Archyde: Iron Maiden’s exclusion raises questions about the Rock Hall’s perception of heavy metal. What do you believe are the long-term implications of overlooking such influential artists? It does make one consider an artist, such as Joe Cocker, who got Cooper’s vote this year.

dr. Vance: ultimately, it risks alienating a significant fanbase and presenting a skewed past narrative of rock’s evolution. Ignoring influential metal bands like Iron Maiden creates a void,suggesting their contributions were somehow less significant,which is simply untrue. The Hall needs to address this perception to maintain its credibility with all rock genres.

Archyde: Food for thought, indeed. Dr. Vance, thank you for your insights.

Dr. Vance: My pleasure.

Archyde: Now, we want to hear from you! Should Iron Maiden be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame? What other artists do you feel deserve recognition? Share your thoughts in the comments below!