The 2009 class of inductees to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame were announced Wednesday, and other than offering the chance to put together that snazzy graphic it doesn't do much for me.

Maybe it's a symptom of living in the era in which these artists made their mark, but the whole thing has gotten rather ho hum. Do baseball fans feel anything when a great player is recognized after a career of exploits? Maybe the five-year gap between retirement and induction is a good idea. It's hard to appreciate the breakthrough that Metallica made 25 years ago when the band continues to churn out marginal music today.

Regardless, it's nice to see RUN-D.M.C. get its due. This truly groundbreaking act is deserving of the award, and I can already envision some sort of unholy matchup between Metallica and the hip hop act at the induction ceremony. Can one rap to "One"?

As for he rest, I'll admit I'm no judge of their merits. I've never understood Jeff Beck's appeal, though his lack of commercial success when compared to Eric Clapton et al might be more of a badge of honor than a slight. He's clearly talented, so bring him on. Bobby Womack? Can't honestly say I've ever knowingly heard one of his songs? Little Anthony? Again, in my ignorance I can't say they are better or worse than contemporaries, though I admire the fact that they're going strong, with original members intact, 50 years later.

Regardless of their merit, these acts obviously seemed like a lock back in September when they were announced. I was four for five in predictions, missing only on Womack, whose spot I predicted for the long-snubbed Stooges. With Ron Asheton now gone, I assume that will be rectified next year.

Other inductees include Wanda Jackson in the Early Influence category and Bill Black, DJ Fontana and Spooner Oldham in the Sidemen category, very worthy picks all.

Labels: music, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame