Peter Frampton Reflects on His Unanticipated Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction
via THE OLD CLASSICS / YouTube
When Peter Frampton was told he’d been chosen for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, he couldn’t find the words to describe his feelings. “I think I’m a little bit in shock, and speechless,” he told Billboard.
Frampton’s Rock Hall Induction
The singer and guitarist’s surprise was evident. Having a career that’s stretched over six decades, Frampton’s name has become synonymous with rock music. Despite this, he didn’t see the honor coming. “I never expected this. People always said, ‘You should be in.’ I said, ‘Eh, what is to be,’ y’know? So mixed emotions, because it’s something that I just never expected, whereas other people did for me. (laughs) It’s wonderful,” he shared.
From his early beginnings with Humble Pie to the soaring success of his 1976 live album, Frampton Comes Alive!, the iconic musician has crafted a unique path in the rock landscape. His devoted audience’s admiration was clearly seen in the Hall of Fame’s fan vote, where Frampton secured over half a million votes, placing him behind only the Dave Matthews Band.
Reflecting on his influence and fans’ support, Frampton expressed humility. “You never quite know how you are regarded,” Frampton admitted. “I don’t think about that; I just do my thing. But ending up in the number two position blew me away, actually. It’s an honor people regard me in this way. I’m just honored and blown away.”
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Facing the Rock Hall Spotlight
Despite this year being the first time he was considered for induction, Frampton humorously responded to the initial announcement with a jest, saying, “Wait, you mean I’m not already in the Rock Hall?” Later, he disclosed a more genuine reaction, asserting, “I’m thrilled to be considered, adding, ‘For a long time you, my friends, have been telling me I should be in it.”
Looking ahead to the induction ceremony, Frampton is already considering who might join him on stage for a performance. Topping his list of potential collaborators is none other than Sheryl Crow, with whom he shared the stage during her own Hall of Fame ceremony the previous year. “I’m thinking about people to invite to play with me and all that kind of stuff,” he says,” noting, “Crow will be at the top of his list.”
Frampton’s Hall of Fame selection represents a special acknowledgment from both his peers and the public, an honor that reflects both his longevity and the indelible mark he has made on rock music. With his humble perspective and genuine surprise at the honor, he captures the spirit of an artist whose focus has always been on creating music, rather than the accolades that might follow.
