JAY-Z Wants To Change The Name Of The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame To This Rap Name

According to the institution's chairman, John Sykes, JAY-Z once suggested rebranding the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame to better reflect Hip Hop's cultural and commercial influence. The revelation came during an interview with Vulture, where Sykes discussed the evolving definition of rock and roll as a genre. Sykes recalled a conversation with JAY-Z in 2021. “JAY-Z told me, ‘Rock is dead. Should be the Hip Hop Hall of Fame,'” said Sykes.

He responded by pointing out that rock and roll has always encompassed diverse genres. “Little Richard, Otis Redding, Chuck Berry — these legends were the foundation of rock and roll. Their influence directly shaped Hip Hop.” Although JAY-Z initially resisted the idea, Sykes noted that the rapper’s attendance at the ceremony demonstrated the Hall's commitment to inclusivity. During his induction speech, JAY-Z reflected on Hip Hop's journey and its parallels to rock and roll.

Jay-Z Tried To Change The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame To Hip Hop

“Never imagined being in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame,” he said. “We were told Hip Hop was a fad. Much like punk rock, it was an anti-culture movement, a subgenre that produced heroes.” He paid homage to icons who inspired him, including Rakim, Big Daddy Kane, KRS-One, Chuck D, and LL Cool J. “I’d watch these legends with their rope chains, leather jackets, and medallions. Whatever they wore, the world copied it the next day. I wanted to be just like them.”

JAY-Z’s induction marked a milestone for Hip Hop’s recognition within the Hall, joining an elite group of 13 Hip Hop acts. This roster includes legendary names such as 2Pac, The Notorious B.I.G., Eminem, Run-DMC, Public Enemy, N.W.A., Missy Elliott, and A Tribe Called Quest. Together, they solidify Hip Hop's rightful place in the Hall of Fame, highlighting its profound impact on music and culture. The ongoing dialogue about the Hall of Fame’s scope underscores the interconnected roots of musical genres and the necessity of honoring contributions from every corner of the industry.

[Via]