Tom Morello Explains Common Misconceptions About the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

Tom Morello on The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

Tom Morello has shared his perspective on what he considers the most relatable aspect of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

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The guitarist from Rage Against The Machine has been present at numerous induction ceremonies over the years, including the 2014 ceremony where he inducted KISS, and last year, he accepted the induction for Rage.

Interview Insights

In a recent interview with Guitar World, he was asked about the annual event and its significance in relation to the guitar music industry.

“What I will say is that people make the mistake that the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame should only be for rock and roll bands,” he stated. “That's not what it's for. Public Enemy is more rock 'n' roll than 95 percent of all the hair metal bands that have ever picked up an instrument, you know?”

He elaborated on what he believes should be the authentic criteria for artists’ inclusion in the Hall. “This music has a spirit, a spirit of youth,” he remarked. “I think rock and roll should encompass a very broad meaning. There’s space for various genres here.”

Morello also mentioned his aspiration for the Rock Hall, specifically to have Iron Maiden inducted, stating that it is long overdue. “I have a hit list,” he noted. “Last on my extended Mount Rushmore list is Iron Maiden. It’s strategic. This year, I’m going full-on Maiden. I know they don’t care – I don’t care that they don’t care because I believe this is where they belong.”

The Hall of Fame has made efforts in recent years to clarify its criteria for induction. They stated, “Born from the collision of rhythm and blues, country and gospel, rock and roll is a spirit that is inclusive and ever-changing,” emphasizing that their mission is to “celebrate the sounds of youth culture and honor the artists whose music unites us all.”

Recently inducted artists who fall outside the typical definition of guitar rock include A Tribe Called Quest, Mary J. Blige, and Missy Elliott.

While accepting Rage’s induction last year, Morello remarked, “The lesson I learned from Rage fans is that music can change the world.” He elaborated, saying, “Every day I hear from fans who have been influenced by our music and, in turn, have made a significant impact on the world. Organizers, activists, community advocates, teachers, and even the presidents of Chile and Finland have all spent time in our mosh pit.”

“When protest music is done right, you can hear a new world emerge in the songs, piercing the oppressors of the time and suggesting that there may be more to life than what we have been given. Can music change the world? The whole goal is to change the world or at least cause a lot of trouble.”

“But throughout history, those who changed the world in progressive, radical, or revolutionary ways had no more money, power, courage, intelligence, or creativity than those watching tonight. The world was changed by ordinary, everyday people who have had enough and are willing to stand up for a more humane, peaceful, and just country and planet, and that’s what I’m here to celebrate tonight.”