In a recent interview with Cleveland.com, Tommy Shaw reflected on why Styx has not yet been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
When asked about Styx’s absence from the Hall of Fame, Shaw replied:
“That’s the ‘living in the future’ we talked about. I hope we all live long enough to find the answer to that question. But that’s not for me to decide.”
Shaw mentioned other artists he believes should be honored as well:
“If it really was up to me, Bad Company would be in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. I don’t know the process and it’s really none of my business. It’s a nice thing to have people rally around artists they like, but we have zero influence.”
Shaw emphasized the honor of being inducted:
“I’m glad when artists are recognized. It’s a great thing for everyone. Like when Rush was inducted? Appreciated. Deserved. It’s an honor for anybody who is inducted, but it doesn’t help write that next song. We all know the reality: it looks good on television.”
Shaw’s Previous Thoughts on Hall of Fame Induction
Styx has been eligible for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame since 1998 but has never been nominated. In a 2021 interview with Rock Candy Magazine, Shaw expressed a rather unconventional wish for their induction:
“Well, we’d love to be in it, but I certainly don’t lose any sleep over it. To be honest, I hope we get inducted after I’ve died. Then at least I won’t have to pay $5,000 for the ‘honor’ of attending the ceremony. Or $10,000, if I want to take my wife.”
James ‘JY’ Young, Styx’s other guitarist, also shared his thoughts two months ago, suggesting the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is East Coast-centric and doubting Styx’s induction. He highlighted that only a few people decide who gets in, not the fans who buy their records. Nonetheless, Young believes their music’s impact on fans’ lives is more significant than any Hall of Fame recognition.
