Dee Snider Demands Rock Hall Of Fame To Induct Old Legends Before They Die

Dee Snider didn’t hold back on Saturday, urging the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame to induct artists while they’re still alive to enjoy the recognition.

The Twisted Sister frontman took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to voice his frustration. Snider wrote:

“Dear RNR Hall of Fame: There are bands who YOU KNOW are going to eventually be inducted because of their huge influence.
“How about NOT waiting until the entire band is DEAD?”

He referenced the MC5, a band set to be inducted in 2024 after six previous nominations. “The MC5 are being inducted next month,” he noted. “The last living member died yesterday. RIP MC5. #thatsucks.” Snider was referring to drummer Dennis Thompson, the last classic-era member of the legendary proto-punk band, who passed away on Thursday at the age of 75.

Snider has a history of criticizing the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. In 2021, he openly slammed the organization for its treatment of hard rock and metal bands, which remain significantly underrepresented in the Hall’s ranks. Snider tweeted:

“The RnR Hall committee members are arrogant elitist assholes who look down on metal & other bands that sell millions because we’re not their definition of cool.
“The fan vote is their ‘throwing a bone’ to the peasants. I want to say FU, but I want them to have to deal with us!”

Snider’s sentiments echo those of other metal icons. Iron Maiden frontman Bruce Dickinson has been equally vocal about his disdain for the institution. He famously called the Hall an “utter and complete load of bollocks” and criticized it as “run by a bunch of sanctimonious bloody Americans who wouldn’t know rock ‘n’ roll if it hit them in the face. They need to stop taking Prozac and start drinking fucking beer.”

The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame has long faced criticism for its inductee choices and the perceived snobbery of its selection committee. Many fans and artists argue that the Hall prioritizes certain genres and overlooks influential acts in hard rock and metal. The frustration is palpable among fans who feel their favorite bands are consistently snubbed or inducted posthumously, denying artists the opportunity to experience the honor themselves.

Snider’s latest comments highlight a broader call for change within the institution. His plea to induct influential bands while members are still alive is a sentiment shared by many in the rock and metal community. The death of Dennis Thompson serves as a stark reminder of the Hall’s often delayed recognition of legendary artists.

A Call for Reform

As the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame continues to induct new members, Snider’s impassioned plea underscores the need for reform. The Hall’s credibility and relevance depend on its ability to honor influential artists timely and inclusively. Snider’s criticism, along with that of his peers, serves as a powerful call to action for the institution to reassess its priorities and processes.