10 Great Rock Bands Snubbed From The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame
2. The Smiths - 12 Years
When it comes to alternative rock, many of the bands that come to mind when crafting the genre come strictly from America. While bands like the Clash had inklings of alternative here and there, much of the attention was paid to R.E.M. or the Pixies. Once the Smiths exploded onto the scene, Britain finally had their alt-rock native sons.
The Smiths were the perfect antithesis to the typical rock band, with Johnny Marr's inventive guitar work complimented by Morrissey's emotional draw. While you can say what you want to about him as a person, Morrissey had a knack in the Smith's heyday for writing lyrics that could reach to the deepest corners of your heart. Even the B-sides of Smiths' singles could be templates for other band's entire careers.
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame has nominated the band on a couple occasions, but quickly forgot about them as the years have gone on. The Smiths are definitely not on the same level as rock and rollers of the 60's, but without this band's influence, modern rock's emphasis on emotional lyricism would be rendered obsolete. One of the greatest 80's bands and an essential part of rock's cultural history.