Last night the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame held its 23rd star-studded induction ceremony at the Waldorf-Astoria in New York City. To be considered, an artist must have released his first recording more than twenty-five years ago. This year's esteemed performers were Leonard Cohen, The Dave Clark Five (Dave Clark, Lenny Davidson, Rick Huxley, Denny Payton and Mike Smith), Madonna, John Mellencamp and The Ventures (Bob Bogle, Nokie Edwards, Gerry McGee, Mel Taylor, Don Wilson). The recognition of one's accomplishments and contributions by the voters of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Foundation is a monumental achievement and touchstone for the honorees as it signifies their importance to music and the popular culture.
The Hall of Fame recognizes these artists with exhibits, video and interactive presentations and programs. Personal items, a multi-media show that captures defining moments of their careers as well as their signatures engraved on the glass walls of the museum will become part of the permanent collection.
Leonard Cohen's poems and music are represented in the library's collection in Book of Longing, Essential Leonard Cohen, Famous Blue Raincoat and Songs from a Room. The History of the Dave Clark Five is a two CD set of this group's music. Madonna's eclectic interests are quite evident and include The English Roses, Mr. Peabody's Apples, Desperately Seeking Susan, Evita, I'm Breathless and Ray of Light. John Mellencamp's ballads and rock numbers may be sampled in the CD's Big Daddy, John Mellencamp, and Trouble No More. The Ventures guitar rock inspired many in the 1960's especially with the ubiquitous hit “Hawaii Five-O.”
Chuck Berry reflected on the fun and good times in his 1957 song, "Rock 'n' Roll Music"
"Just let me hear some of that
Rock and roll music
Any old way you choose it
It's got a back beat, you can't lose it
Any old time you use it
It's gotta be rock and roll music
If you want to dance with me
If you want to dance with me"