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ABBA, Genesis, Hollies, Stooges
and more make history

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction
The Waldorf-Astoria
New York, NY
March 15, 2010

Faith Hill

Iggy Pop

Story by Andy Argyrakis
Photos by Kathryn Randall

Anyone hoping for a complete reunion of ABBA or Genesis at the 2010 installment of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction surely came up short, but there was still plenty to devour as both acts were honored by the industry's elite. Though the group's been offered exorbitant sums to reconvene, ABBA insists on leaving its legacy in the 1970s and letting newer pop stars follow in its footsteps, which was amply displayed throughout a stirring tribute from Faith Hill, accompanied by the group's Benny Andersson on piano.

Even more influential (but in art rock circles rather than pop) was Genesis, who may have been missing Peter Gabriel, but were still honored for its work with him from Phish front man/part time solo star Trey Anastasio. From there, the entire Phish outfit turned in the early career classic "Watcher of the Skies" and the '80s staple "No Reply At All," though it was strange to see the present members of Genesis merely sitting on the sidelines and simply appearing for their acceptance speech.

The Hollies were another blast from the past that had its main members show up to collect the honors (alongside a homage-paying Steven Van Zandt from Bruce Springsteen's E Street Band). And as its sophisticated, harmony-heavy catalogue was unveiled (with a little help from Maroon 5 and Train members), it was clear the group's relevance expands well beyond the 1960s and into today's porch pop and singer/songwriter circuit.

From the following decade, the perpetually youthful Iggy Pop returned to the ceremony after previously performing a tribute to Madonna, but this time unfurled his own tunes as leader of The Stooges. The punk rock road pavers plowed through fist pumpers like "No Fun," accompanied by a backstage visit that found the fellas glowing with appreciation for the industry's recognition of Detroit finest's garage rockers.

Others on the docket included reggae leader Jimmy Cliff, who was introduced to younger generations via Wyclef Jean, along with executive David Geffen, inducted by a humble Jackson Browne. Several songwriters also earned the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame honors from Carole King, including Barry Mann & Cynthia Weil and Ellie Greenwich & Jeff Barry, who's collective credits span The Animals (represented by Eric Burdon) to The Ronnettes (via Ronnie Spector) and even Elvis Presley (channeled through Chris Isaak).

All throughout the televised broadcast, recipients, performers and presenters popped in the press room to echo their appreciation and adorations. Regardless of who appeared, the mood remained celebratory and everyone appeared on a united front with the overarching goal of preserving music history. For an up close and personal look at an extension of the event, visit the actual Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland (www.rockhall.com).