Paul Rodgers Declines Rock Hall Invitation: Here’s Why
via Band X Atlanta / YouTube
In the world of rock and roll, few honors are as prestigious as an invitation to join the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. However, not every legendary musician is eager to accept this accolade. Paul Rodgers, renowned for his powerful voice and contributions to bands like Free, Bad Company, and Queen, recently made headlines by turning down this coveted offer.
Rodgers, whose bands have collectively sold a staggering 40 million albums worldwide, has long been considered one of rock’s greatest voices.
His stint with Queen alone is legendary, yet he chose to decline the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction. In an interview with radio host Eddie Trunk, Rodgers shared the story behind his decision.
“Years and years ago, Ahmet Ertegun, who was the head of Atlantic Records and a co-founder of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, said to me, ‘Paul, we’re making this museum of rock ‘n’ roll. Do you guys want to be part of it?’ And I said, ‘What, a museum of rock ‘n’ roll? What’s it called?’ He said, ‘The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame,'” Rodgers recounted.
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His response was surprising:
“I don’t think rock ‘n’ roll belongs in a museum,” he declared, politely declining the offer.
Despite being asked a couple of times afterward, Rodgers maintained his stance. Rodgers commented about his absence from the Hall, indicating that he stands by his decision:
“It doesn’t affect my daily life. It doesn’t affect what I do in any way at all.”
Rodgers, despite his health challenges, recently released his first solo album in nearly 25 years, titled “Midnight Rose.”
Even though he’s feeling good these days, he mentioned to Trunk that he has “no plans to tour.” Instead, he and his wife Cynthia Kereluk, who co-produced “Midnight Rose,” are considering creating acoustic recordings for the fans, offering a unique musical experience without the need for extensive touring.
In an industry where accolades are often cherished, Paul Rodgers’ decision stands as a testament to his unique perspective on the role of rock and roll, emphasizing the essence of music over the glory of awards and museums.
