As a key member of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame’s nominating committee, Rage Against the Machine’s Tom Morello has made it his mission to get legendary metal band Iron Maiden inducted. Despite years of eligibility, Iron Maiden remains absent from the Hall’s list of inductees, a snub Morello views as a significant oversight.
“I will chew my leg off like a coyote in a trap if I can’t get Iron Maiden in,” Morello passionately stated, describing the band as “the gold standard of metal.” For Morello, Maiden’s legacy and influence make them one of the most glaring omissions in the Hall’s history. The guitarist, who joined the nominating committee to give the Hall more credibility among younger rock and metal fans, hopes his advocacy will lead to Iron Maiden’s long-overdue recognition.
Iron Maiden’s Complicated Relationship with the Rock Hall
Iron Maiden’s frontman Bruce Dickinson, however, has been openly critical of the Hall. In 2018, Dickinson expressed disdain for the institution, insisting he would refuse induction if the honor were ever offered. “If we’re ever inducted, I will refuse — they won’t bloody be having my corpse in there,” Dickinson said, underscoring his belief that the Hall doesn’t reflect the spirit of rock and metal.
Morello acknowledges the possibility that Maiden might skip their own induction ceremony if ever enshrined, but he remains undeterred. As a fan, he’s determined to see their accomplishments honored, regardless of the band’s feelings. “I care very, very much about it. So I’m gonna do all I can to get… Iron Maiden in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame,” he said.
Revamping the Hall’s Legacy
Morello joined the committee with a mission: to make the Hall a place where rock and metal’s most influential figures feel represented. Speaking on the Hall’s current lack of appeal among young rock fans, Morello said, “A lot of young rock ‘n’ roll guitar players have no respect for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. None of their favorite bands are in it.” Morello believes the Hall should celebrate the acts that inspire generations of musicians, adding that it currently lacks the respect it should command among rock’s biggest followers.
Iron Maiden: Legends with or Without the Hall
Despite the Hall’s oversight, Iron Maiden’s career remains a testament to their influence. Known for pioneering the heavy metal genre, the UK legends continue to tour worldwide, drawing thousands of die-hard fans to every show. Their legacy as metal icons is cemented through their music, even without a place in the Rock Hall’s halls. Iron Maiden is currently wrapping up their North American tour, with a show in Baltimore on November 12th and three more dates to follow.
Morello’s dedication to Iron Maiden’s recognition reflects a broader push to honor the artists who shaped rock and metal music. For fans and metal purists, Maiden’s inclusion in the Rock Hall would be a long-awaited celebration of their undeniable impact.
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