This past week, Cleveland has been a buzz with Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony activities. People flock to this city by Lake Erie for such occassions. For that reason, the Hall of Fame has worked hard to get the ceremony back where it belongs.
Over the past several years–as in more than 20, the power house people who organize the inductions have opted for New York City instead of Cleveland, the city accredited to the birth of Rock and Roll when 1950s DJ Alan Freed coined the term during his Cleveland broadcasts.
I guess those who are New York prone have decided that Cleveland’s not a “Mistake on the Lake” after all. The induction festivities will be in Cleveland once every three years starting this year. That was the buzz a couple years ago, and I heard yesterday on the news that this is a done deal. This is great news for Cleveland because the ceremony brings in millions of dollars and will hopefully create a renewed interest in the museum. For the public, it’s great. Today, for example, admission to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum is free. Several Cleveland restaurants have been offering special drinks and dishes and there have been special concerts. Plus, Cleveland is sure cheaper than Manhattan.
According to the events page on the Hall of Fame website, if you want to watch the simulcast of the three hour ceremony, you can buy a $5 ticket at Ticketmaster outlets or online. You can also call 1-800-745-3000. Or, if you’re in Cleveland, head to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. There will be broadcasts throughout the museum and on the huge screen on the Main Stage.
Starting at 6 pm tonight you can also watch the induction ceremony hoopla including the red carpet arrivals and backstage interview buzz at Public Hall via live streaming video at www.cleveland.com.
Who is getting inducted this year?
Performers
- Jeff Beck
- Metallica
- Little Anthony and the Imperials
- Run-D.M.C
- Bobby Womack
Early Influence
- Wanda Jackson
Sideman Category
- Bill Black
- DJ Fontana
- Spooner Oldman