The Rock Hall has announced it’s list of 2010 nominees with no mention of Link Wray. I have come to grips with the fact that his best chance of induction is likely as an early influence which is usually kept under wraps until announcement time. Link’s music continues to influence many who play today. When I hear live performers play his songs in their shows I realize just how ahead of his time he was. Although I’ve listened to much of his music countless times as being among my favorite musicians, the songs remain fresh and visionary to me. Songs some of which are over 50 yrs old at this time still are more innovative than today’s commercially orchestrated, manufactured for radio hits. True talent and vision is what Link possessed. To me the ultimate justice for Link’s being overlooked for so long would be that he be inducted as a performer, songwriter, and an early influence. His spirit and influence can even be heard in some of this year’s nominees The Stooges material. They along with Link played with Raw Power. If you’ve ever seen Link live you’d understand the essence of that statement. He just loved to play and loud!
Help make the case for Link Wray’s induction and sign our Induct Link Wray petition.
