Re-Todd Rundgren/Rock Hall

His quote:

I'm heartbroken….for LL Cool J. 5 times a bridesmaid...

Eric Gardner

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You certainly don't have to convince me. Growing up in Philly I first saw Todd with Woody's Truck Stop. He had the first '50s gold top Les Paul I ever saw (which is the guitar by which I still live and die), and showed me how to play Mike Bloomfield's "Born In Chicago" solo. Then the Nazz, who I never got to see live, but I absolutely agree with your take on "Hello, It's Me". Leaving Philadelphia when he did was probably the smartest thing he could have done, but a great loss to what might have been a burgeoning rock music scene there. So be it, he set the bar so high for so many. "Hermit Of Mink Hollow" is the one for me, if there are still Desert Island records that's definitely in my top five… so personal, so universal. As close to a "perfect" record as (your "perfect record" here). Some of his works have been left-field, some have left me scratching my head, but his home runs were many and out of the park.

Todd is already in the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame as far as I and the rest of the sentient world is concerned.

Eric Bazilian

P.S. By the way, check this out… https://open.spotify.com/track/2WKoLmf7x0yhJOn2meL7pY?si=btkl6wWERAm4xMGGKt8VkQ

From 1984 or thereabouts. Such an obvious homage to "Open My Eyes". We played the last concert at The Spectrum in Philly with him in 2000-something, which is the first time I'd seen him in decades. He'd never heard it! I sent it to him, never heard back, I do hope he listened. You'll get a kick out of it, and I'm sure you'll see the similarity.

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I especially love his a cappella work. Nothing beats it.

Queenie Taylor

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Thank you, Bob.
I was a little pissed off when I saw the inductees today. Radiohead before DEVO? Huh?
I'm glad that The Zombies & Roxy Music got in, but Stevie Nicks? Why?
Todd has recorded and produced some of the greatest music of the 20th Century and he's passed up over Def Leppard?
Fuck the Rock Hall. It's all BS politics, I'm afraid.

Happy Holidays!

Rodney Rowland

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Hear hear!

Peter Denholtz

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Ever year the HOF list come out and it continues to lose credibility due to no TR. ridiculous

Francis Lauderdale

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Enjoyed reading the piece on TR.

During the first year of "30 Rock",
Tina Fey wrote a great scene paying homage to Todd.

Liz Lemon (played by Tina Fey): "We need to fire Lutz."
Pete Hornberger (played by Scott Adsit): "What? Why? What happened?"
Liz: "He called me the worst name ever."
Frank Rossitano (played by Judah Friedlander): "What did he call you?"
Liz: "I'm not gonna repeat it. That's how much I hate it."
Pete: "Fat can?"
Liz: "No."
Frank: "Mouth hooker?"
Liz: "No."
Frank: "Monster bitch."
Pete: "Hatchet face."
Liz: "No! The one that rhymes with the name of your favorite Todd Rundgren album."
Frank (utterly confused): "It rhymes with Hermit of Mink Hollow?" –30 Rock, Season 1, "The C Word," written by Tina Fey

Rogers Motley
Chatham Virginia

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Because he's Todd Rundgren. That's why he needs to be in the Hall. It's that simple.

And if I have to elaborate, "Something/Anything" is as important as any album from that era.

As always, thanks for your vigilance.

fritzdoddy

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I never had a girlfriend named Marlene, but if I did, Todd wrote her song. It's perfectly beautiful earworm from "Something/Anything." It's been in my head since 1972.

You know, I was at Temple U. in Philly ('67) when Todd and his band, Woody's Truck Stop, played college mixers in Mitten Hall. He was the first person I ever saw with multi-colored hair.
Why isn't he in the Rock Hall?
Rich Arfin

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Fantastic! A true Todd fan.

Randy Gish

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SKYLARKING

Daniel Grgas

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Todd has always been God. Bless the Bearsville sound!
Thanks for this piece.
Cathy Goodman

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New York dolls was not overhyped that album is a stone cold classic of overwhelming importance especially to punk music that it had a large role in influencing. And he produced Laura nyro!

Bones Howell

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You are wrong on so many things. But when you are right, you are all in to-the-moon-and-back, 110% right. Todd's place in that stupid RRHoF is way long overdue.

Barry Pike

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Your so right….

Harris Goldberg

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Rundgren may not be everyone's fave, but you cannot deny his abilities. From XTC to Meatloaf, he is all over my fave albums. But the highlight for me is this track from "Lost in the Stars"- Weill never sounded so sinister, and that is saying something.
"Call from the Grave"
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IYq1lALlOBo

Dave Richards
14 Hits

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Bob really nice piece. I've been a believer for many years. It's criminal that Todd isn't seen as a national treasure. You're probably preaching to the choir with your readership but thanks for spreading the word. His tour next year promises to be a must see. Oh yea ...Todd's too good for the RRHF

Steve Gietka

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EARN ENOUGH FOR US. Genius. Thank you Todd and XTC.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QeDDQqO9kWo
Greg Renoff

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......yup.

Tommy Allen

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Todd Rundgren is THE most talented singer, songwriter, producer, engineer, guitarist and multi-instrumentalist still alive and working. Others may get more press but music history would be quite different without the last 50 years of Todd's contributions. He should have been in the R&RHOF years ago but he is really in a class by himself.

Paul Kalenak

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Todd really is God. You're 1000% right - Todd belongs in the RRHoF based solely on Something/Anything. And he composed and played almost everything himself, except for appearances by Michael and Randy Brecker, Rick Derringer, Ben Keith, and a couple of other luminaries of the day. As you accurately stated, add in the also-brilliant (and over-the-top) double-in-one-sleeve "Todd", "Ballad", "Wizard" (also over-the-top), "Hermit", and all of the vast production genius with others (Patti Smith!!) should make him a no-brainer several times over.

Finally, he's one of the greatest singers in rock, pop, and soul - plus an incredibly inventive and exhilarating vocal arranger.

These young voters will never get it until some older lover slips them a mickey, turns out the lights, and blasts "The Night The Carousel Burned Down", "Couldn't I Just Tell You", and then Side One of "Todd". I swear I will never recover...

Thanks,
Danny Kapilian

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You are so right on this one. At least The Zombies finally got in (deservingly so) before they aged out. Eron Epstein

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Bob

This is brilliant!

Mike Busch

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and "Wailing Wall"

Todd received the Les Paul Award in '14

sofu_gan

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Todd Rundgren is a true genius, a word I rarely use.

Ever hear the album A Cappella? Everything done with his voice
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A_Cappella_(Todd_Rundgren_album)

Todd embraced the use of computers and video VERY early on.
AND, he's a really good guy!

If ever ANYONE deserved to be in the RRHOF, it's him.
ABBA who????

Kevin Kiley

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He needs to do his greatest hits, not only his deeps cuts which he did on his last tour. But also
do some covers of songs he produced for those bands like you mentioned, Tubes N Cheap Trick.
And for the encore? one of the songs he did with Hall on the series Daryl's House.
Just to wake up those sleep heads at the RR of Fame.

Frank Ball

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Sorry Bob, but I gotta disagree about Todd. He was great and did great things, sure. To paraphrase what David Cone once said about baseball players: "if they are not a lock in the first second you think of a name, they don't belong in the Hall of Fame. It needs to be automatic". The same applies to music and the RRHOF. If you have to defend someone so hardcore, they just don't belong. Rage Against The Machine is the real crime of omission here. Innovative and truly groundbreaking. Smarter lyrics and harder music together than everyone in that era, including Nirvana who are in. Pathetic to leave them out.

Call me when Thin Lizzy, Judas Priest, and Iron Maiden get in.

Keith Chachkes
Chief Editor, Metalhead lifer
Ghost Cult Magazine
www.ghostcultmag.com

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I saw Todd twice in the last 2-3 years at the Coach House. He sounds terrible. He lost his voice. If you have a line to him I would think if he can somehow monetize his studio work or some kind of media presence it would be game-changing. He has the brain and the talent to do it. But touring is bumming me out. That said, I will never forget a show at the Boulder Theater where he did it solo, heckled the drunks a bit, and played a legendary solo performance of "Beloved Infidel" which is super obscure I bet but just a gem of a tune. I hate his Libtardian politics but he and his art are def favorites. Easily an "American Treasure." Thanks, Todd.

CJ in LA

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Well done. Todd FOR SURE belongs. You've named many of his successes (some of which may surprise many people). I'd like to add that what these specific examples are, are examples of the strong, multi-decade influence Todd had on so many of us. He's also super smart, kind, and infinitely creative.
Todd not only belongs in the RRHF for his works as an artist, producer, singer and songwriter not only for his obvious recorded successes, but also for his influence and development of the music we love far beyond the records and bands he created, helped, repaired... Todd has a musical courage, an integrity and influence that drove the whole of music forward with honesty and immense talent.
Thank you for the effort you put into detailing all of this Bob, you faithfully opened a window into this extraordinary man and artist. The deeper part can be found in the music itself.
(Anyone heard the album FAITHFUL? Those who know, know that this album was an honor to those who influenced him, FAITHFULLY re-recorded by Todd almost exactly like the originals. Little chance it would produce a hit or any real income to Todd. Pure, artistic, GENEROUS tribute to the music from which Todd sprung. In my experience, THIS is who Todd is.)
Great post Bob, thank you,
Bill Green

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Totally agree with you on Todd!

I also don't understand how DMB is left out?? They seem to check all the boxes and continue to fill stadiums and sell records 25 years later!! Any thoughts on why weren't they even nominated?

Thanks,
John Hever

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You forgot The Pursuit of Happiness and their debut album Love Junk. I'm sure Jake Gold is emailing or texting you right now to add them to that list! Definitely a another Todd masterpiece of production, all killer no filler album.

Yes they're a Canadian band but the big single on there "I'm An Adult Now" made a bit of a break through in the states especially in LA but here in Canada it's a rock classic and the band just reissued it as a 30th anniversary special edition. Still sounds timeless thanks to Todd's production and his help with the arrangements which band leader/songwriter credits to him.

Record company asked him after he signed who he wanted to produce. He aimed high for his musical hero, in no way expecting him to actually do it, especially a debut, or the record company to even float it by him, but as tactic for them to counter with a producer they would like instead of some go to of the day. Talk about surprise and elation when Todd contacted him to say he was interested in doing it! Pick up the reissue as the liner notes detail the whole sorta Cinderella story.

Michael Moniz

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My son is in a low-mid level touring band. I tell him every day...you play your best song first and blow them away, then you have them. You want to play between the most drawing and second most drawing band on the bill until they are coming just to hear your #1 song, then you play it last.

Simon Aleman

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I have defended the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame from its detractors for many years. But as of today, that shameful institution is dead to me. There's clearly some agenda at work to deny entry to one of the musical giants of our time. For all the reasons you mentioned and many more, Todd should have been in years ago. Instead it appears that they're going to wait until he's gone, until it's too late, to recognize his genius. And when they finally do, I hope the person who accepts in his name gets up there and tells them to go f*** themselves.

Ken Shane

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Todd played two nights down here in San Juan Capistrano a few weeks ago. We get some really interesting acts at the Coach House. Come down some time.

Dan Rosen

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You overlooked my favorite band from high school in Philly, Todd's group Woody's Truck Stop https://www.allmusic.com/artist/woodys-truck-stop-mn0001295648 Listen to People Been Talkin' https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Um64HppvOgg. And then the Todd production of "I'll Be Around" by my former client "What Is This", a remake of the classic hit by the Spinners https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oR9-0tx2kcg (What Is This members included Hillel Slovak and Jack Irons from the Chili Peppers with Alain Johannes and Todd Strassman). Yes, Todd belongs in the Hall!

Henry Root

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Well put Bob.
Absolutely criminal that the sheer genius of TR has not as yet been recognized by voters and the the Hall.
Such a disappointment today to realize he had been overlooked ...again.
If there is any justice next year for Todd-long as he remains denied the Rock'n Roll Hall of Fame is not cutting it!

Chris Brooke
Winnipeg

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BANG ON THE DRUM a Packer fan can't believe u left this off your list!
JAM

But I thought you agreed with me the HOF is a joke!

Joe Mock

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And don't forget Bob, his rabid following, easily on par with or beyond the likes of Deadheads, any jam band or even the Parrotheads, although I don't think the Parrotheads are of the multiple shows in multiple cities squad.

His fans have been there from the start and haven't loosened their grip and the will be "faithful" forever.

On that aspect alone, if there was ever a consideration for loyalty, Todd
would have a mantle full of participation trophies a mile wide.

Yes, as the fans say; Todd Is God.

And if you ever had a newsletter that needed a part two, this is one of
them.

Perry/Chicago

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All true...but not only did you leave out a ton of recordings that deserve attention, but also Todd's accomplishments in video (he focused on innovative techniques, in the very early days of MTV) and fan subscription services (PatroNet gave fans access to partial and unfinished recording LONG before Prince and others had similar services)!

There is virtually no artist/producer/innovator that deserves the recognition as much as Todd...even if that is only the sham that is the pitiful Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Bob Reeves
Nashville TN

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"When I want to teach my kids about the history of Rock and Roll the first thing I play them is a Janet Jackson record," said no-one ever.

Paul Cashmere

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Amen, Brother Bob.
The church of Todd.

David Wilk

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Amen Bob! I voted as many times as I could. Todd probably does not care though. Glad we do

Van Fletcher

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Wankers is (are?) right!

Goes to show you how uniformed the RRHOF is. I would have thought he was in there years ago.

Todd created some of the world's most memorable music for the last 50 years or longer, and he's just getting recognized now?

Hooey.

But then again Zevon's not in there either, so F them.

Russ Novack.

PS: Wasn't one of those Nazz albums on green vinyl?

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I love Rundgren and his music so much! The scale and quality of his immense catalog is mind boggling. He's scored so much of my life, and even when he was infuriatingly self indulgent on his live set choices, he was still head and shoulders above everyone. The man at 70 has not lost a step or a note. The Utopia show at the Wiltern last May was one of the best lives shows I've seen in my 40+ years of concert going! (and he DID do a whole show of his hits 2 years ago at the Saban, and it was as incredible as you'd imagine)

Even when Todd insulted me and my band (Green Jellö) to my face backstage about 20 years ago…I STILL worshipped the guy! And he wasn't wrong. It WAS a sophomore slump…just like Runt: Ballad!

Do you think Jann keeps him out on purpose cause he's talked shit about the Hall?

Gary Helsinger

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I voted for him.

Damn Poseurs.

I actually think the detail of your email below may help Todd next time....

Peter Shapiro

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Nicely done Bob.

Pass the one hitter my way and add "A Wizard A True Star" — cause he's in THAT Hall of Fame too!

Steve Lindstrom

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Amen Bob.

the R&RHOF has become such a travesty i just don't pay attention to it anymore.

Tim Hallam

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One of my favorite Jesse Winchester clips:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5uKGWpqnS8E

I love how Elvis Costello and the others on stage are so amazed and captivated by this awesome, pure performance.

People who aren't familiar with Jesse Winchester are truly missing a gem.

And yes, Todd Rundgren should have been inducted into the R&RHoF a long time ago. But would he sell enough tickets and bring the TV ratings they want these days?

Russ Paris

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I would also add-

Caravan....(from Adventures in Utopia)

"Moses went into the desert
Moses came out with The Law
Jesus went into the desert
G-d only knows what He saw"....

Yes, a great tribute and acknowledg"ment, Mr. L.... TR not underrated but somehow under-recognized.... A Genius in every aspect of the musical arts

-Anthony Napoli
Beacon, NY

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Yes. Todd is God.
Mellencamp clip when John was on Letterman. Todd is sitting in on the band with Paul Schaffer.
Musicians know when the public doesn't.
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=CSQs2boo4Sk

Todd Devonshire

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I agree with nearly everything...except about the NY Dolls. Both albums great, both with great songs, the other one produced by the legendary Shadow Morton, and they were always a lot of fun, albeit sloppy, live, especially in the early days.

Toby Mamis

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Sometimes, maybe often, you drive me crazy. Not this time. It's a joke Todd is not in the Hall. I'm 58. I've seen him in every decade starting in the 1970s. Always great. Always different. Always relevant. Still relevant. And damn, what a songwriter.

Steven Birenberg

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https://www.cleveland.com//entertainment/2018/12/rock-roll-hall-of-fame-voters-goofed-by-leaving-todd-rundgren-out-of-the-class-of-2019-chuck-yarborough.html

Wallace Sanders

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Well said, Bob.
He'll get in if there's any justice.
And Trump will have the big one if there's any justice.
Maybe justice maybe not.
We'll see.
Kevin Ritchie

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Amen.

Tom Wszalek

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God bless you Bob Lefsetz. I literally had a tear in my eye when I learned that Todd was bypassed for the hall this year (although I was not surprised given the hall's history). Todd is God indeed and your beautiful words were very much needed.

Harlan Lansky

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I personally don't think you need to go through a long involved email with all the songs listed (even though I'm glad you did) to convince anybody who reads your letter That Todd belongs in the rock 'n' roll Hall of Fame..A lifetime of Innovacion and excellence on the musical end and the technical end should have been enough to make this a unanimous choice. Obviously there are people out there with their heads up you know where that just can't get a grip on the situation And how major of a creative figure he has been for about 50 years now...I mean he even produced the Paul Butterfield blues band live album. Talk about diversity. People who didn't vote for him should be ashamed of themselves
By the way I used to really enjoy going to see Utopia At the Chance in Poughkeepsie New York....My friend Chris Anderson used to be their tech guy and I saw many shows..All awesome
Peace,Jason Miles

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i grew up on Nazz and Todd…… this is long overdue….if Hall and Oates are in then Todd needs his due acknowledgment….

my guess of why he is overlooked may be due to his pushing the edge on all forms of music …whether it was pop, soul, jazz fusion or whatever……he did not stick to one genre…… which is why he should be inducted….Todd is the true Renaissance musician…. oh and did anyone mention what an incredible producer he is….

thanks for bringing his candidacy to the forefront….

bill powell
feld entertainment

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Saw Todd do a 1-man show at the (Hollywood) Palace on Vine back in the late 80's. He played piano, Fairlight CMI synth (he would sometimes throw the control panel on the video screens) and a video controller dropping filters on his live video. It was 2 hours of compelling theater, storytelling and music. I also saw him at a New Music Seminar in NYC that same year where he told the story of the XTC album. A true disruptor. HOF be damned, WE know who he is! #RealMan

David Benson

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Heartbreaking that you even need to explain this to people. That said, it does warm the heart to read about Todd's work. Brilliant.

Myles Silton

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I don't have much to add to your treatise on Todd other than to say, like most fans, I have my own favorites that may not necessarily match your own. But, you covered hit the high notes in a comprehensive way. Todd is a hall of famer.

When I think of Todd, I think mostly of the early solo albums, which were my college years. They spoke to me clearly about my life at the time. A few years later, I was in Woodstock at a supermarket and there was this guy behind me with rainbow colored hair and rock star clothes (with his lady friend/wife?) who seemed really tired. Instant fanboy time for me. At that time, I was a kid working with a young band in town that night and I invited him to the show. He couldn't have been nicer in his answer. He explained that he had just gotten back from the road, couldn't make it, but thanked me for the invite. It felt sincere.

No attitude. No bullshit. Just positive human interaction with a nobody in an age of sometimes celebrated atrocious rock star behavior.

Todd rocks.

Phil Brennan

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Couldn't agree more

Thanks!

Egreenteam

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Totally agree ala Todd!
Check out the Joe Cocker doc. on Netflix....also NOT in the R & R Hall of Fame.
And then, how about Harry Nilsson?!!!
Steve Winwood? Kate Bush?
~Skinny

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I'm admittedly two-faced when it comes to the Rock Hall. I've never been and I want to see it. Also, I'm a freelance music writer that will sometimes say to myself, "So cool, I interviewed so-and-so and that person is in the RRHOF." Interviewed Graham Nash earlier this year and he's been inducted twice, for example. With that said, I see who's in and who's snubbed and wonder why I even care about it at all. We can spend days on the "Who should be in?" debate, but in my opinion leaving Todd out is inexcusable and mind-blowing. Thanks for the great post about him. Maybe one day...

Brent Thompson
Birmingham, AL

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YES !!!!!!!

Peter Roaman

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Nice. Something/Anything. You could always wow your friends with it.

mab
Mike Becker
St. Louis (and the world)

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"I'm An Adult Now"
The Pursuit Of Happiness

Chart # 22 US

bpthree bpthree

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Thank you.

Michael Kurtz

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Next position please is the most underrated cheap trick album.
Every song on it is a gem.

Dont forget side 2 of Remote Control by the Tubes

Aw hell. Just start the Lefsetz rnr hall of fame.

Robert Genter

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"Personality Crisis"
New York Dolls

Overhyped, they'd be completely forgotten if it were not for Todd's production on their debut LP.

Bob, you're wrong. David launched a thousand front men; Johnny Thunders is a god damned icon and one of the greats; Jerry Nolan was one of the greatest rock and roll drummers; Syl's "Trash" Alone should grant them access.. let alone Arthur Kane.

The New York Dolls were too dangerous for you then and too dangerous for you now.

NYD are as rock and roll as it gets.

BGreen

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Yep, Bob, you nailed it.
Todd is amazing.
I loved listening to The Night the Carousel Burned Down from Something Anything with headphones.
He's taken us all on musical trips, and I have to admit, I didn't like them all. It doesn't matter, though, he did what a musician/producer is supposed to do. He showed us another way to look at Pop and Rock every time he came out of the studio.
He even took the time to pay his respects to people he admired with the Faithful album.
I only have one correction to your remarks about Something Anything. Wolfman wasn't on the album version of Wolfman Jack, but he was on the single version.
He deffinitly should be in the Hall of Fame, probably before anyone else on this years list.
Bill Scherer from MN.

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Bob, great list here! Thanks for writing this and shedding some light on a master craftsman's catalogue. He is my idol and I wholeheartedly agree he should be in the Rock Hall, but part of me thinks he doesn't even care. He seems like someone who was always about the creative expression rather than accolades. Just my two cents...

Matt DiMarino

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Yeah it is crazy to have Stevie Nicks and Janet Jackson in their and NOT Todd. Back to the Bars was my first Todd album and I still love it. It's my desert island album pick forever. I bought more of his albums and saw him at the Akron Agora in the 80s and in the Flats in Cleveland maybe 20 yrs ago. He was amazing both times. He is such a huge talent. Thank you for writing about him. I hope he gets in next year. I'm not going to the RRHOF until he's in!
Love your writing.

Sandy Jones

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Todd Rundgren...
Just hangin in his studio for a week...
Will create more things relevant to "rock and roll" than Janet Jackson---has ever done.
However...
The lofty legion that is the Hall of Fame committee will often cite "influence" as a reason the musically disconnected get in.
So...just based on influence...JJ makes the RRHOF.
How so?
Well...that "exposure" pretty much changed everything.
Now follow me here:
---She was the focus of a Super Bowl halftime "show."
---After that, the FCC clamped down hard on radio.
---Radio companies created zero-tolerance environments.
---The top rock station personalities were soon fired or left.
---The biggest of all...Howard Stern...saves satellite radio.
---Bob Lefsetz gets a radio show.

Marty Bender

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Hi Bob. I normally don't need to respond to your blog posts but you hit the
nail on the head with this one. Runt/The Ballad is definitely one of the
true masterpieces of American song writing of the last couple decades! Glad
somebody else recognizes this as well!!

Best,
Peter Weitzner

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So glad you said this Bob – he's truly underrated. Awesome that you mentioned XTC – that was a fine production.

Mark Frieser

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And don't forget the recently released "Tin Foil Hat."

James Ferguson

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The song on "Something, Anything" that has possibly the most Rock and Roll line is "Is It My Name" where he says "I play my guitar in such a man-cock way"!! That line surely takes influence from Mannish Boy, I'm a Man, Hootchie Cootchie Man, Seventh Son, among other songs. Every young rock star is thinking about the sex but they start out as just boys who want to be men. They wanna be with the second mother like another Bob said.

Darkmatterdon

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Nice one!
Ricky Schultz

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Mr. Lefsetz-

This was your first post that made me want to stand up and cheer.

As one of those who has "known" since the mid-seventies, I find it somewhat of a disgrace that Todd is not in the hall when so many acts who are not even rock are enshrined.

As much as I am a fan of his work, I think he deserves it more for his influence.

He has been doing the one man studio band thing since the Runt album, but other artists got credit for it a decade later.

He is a master-class producer (although sometimes the end result does sound too much like his own work).

He is an obvious influence on other acts-heck, when Hall &Oates released "Kiss On My List" I went to the record store looking for a new Todd album.

He finished third in the fan balloting, but still lost to a few bands that came in far below him.

I went to the Hall in 2002 and remember there was an exhibit of Madonna and Britney Spears outfits and wondered why that was there. Even though I have been to Cleveland several times since, that trip told me all I needed to know.

Or maybe I am still grousing because the hall didn't end up in Philly.

If you have never heard it, I would encourage you to listen to 1989's Nearly Human. I think it is his best album if you skip the EC cover song.

And as always, thanks for you posts!

Laurence Cavanaugh

One of the Todd faithful

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I agree with you about Todd Rundgren.

You can add Warren Zevon and John Prine to that folder of greatness that are not properly acknowledged in this particular field. Two of the greatest songwriter/lyricists to ever live.

On a positive note Roxy Music got their just due.

One step at a time I suppose or to quote John Prine;

"It don't make much sense that common sense don't make no sense no more."

Ted Lindsay
Burlington, Ontario

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Couldn't agree more and it's about time someone (with clout) stood up for him. And the Nazz version of Hello It's Me is definitive. What was he, like 15 or 16? That entire album still works.

David Murphy

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Nice to have another person vouching for Todd's inclusion. I definitely disagree with you about the Dolls, but otherwise solid track selections. Only thing you missed was mentioning his production on Hall and Oates' 'War Babies', which is almost a lost sibling to his 'Todd' album from the same year.

Thanks,
Morris Hanson

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He is deserving, but less so than the Iron Maiden or the priest

One only needs to listen

Hello it's me. (Not a bad lightweight pop song)
Vs. second to none (priest) or run to the hills (maiden)

There is a reason why teenagers still wear vintage looking old metal band t shirts

Cheers
Ted

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Bob, you're spot on. And the same goes for the Guess Who. Huge hits and Cummings had (and still to a large degree, still has) one of the greatest voices in Rock (btw, loved your Bachman interview).

Some of the jokers who are in and these guys aren't?

You should write your top five or ten artists most deserving but not in the R&R HOF.

Never give up!

Ken Bravo

____________________________________________

Hello Bob,
I love Todd and I'm glad you're espousing his HOF admittance but any list of Todd's achievements that doesn't mention "Couldn't I Just Tell You" is a travesty. It might be the greatest power pop song ever written.

Respectfully,
Jonathan

____________________________________________

Bravo on Todd! An artist in a sea of entertainers. Thanks for acknowledging "It's a Long Time…" spectacular song!

Jimmy Steal

____________________________________________

Thank you

rclark

____________________________________________

Being from Jersey just across the bridge from Philadelphia and growing up in the 60's and 70's, to my friends and I Todd was God!!

My Dad bought a juke box for the family (5 kids) when I was in grade school and filled it every other month with 45's and one of those was The Nazz single "Open My Eyes" b/w "Hello It's Me " and you're right the Nazz version is soooooo much better.

My friends and I began buying his LP's in High School, had every one up to Hermit of Mink Hollow and when I began working in a music store after HS, met a guy who used to go see The Nazz, had all 3 LP'S and gave them to me!

Whether he gets in the RRHOF or not he is a true artist, and he will always be "A Wizard and a True Star"!

Cheers
Tom Gillam

____________________________________________

Great playlist.

The contrarian's curse. We say we want rebels and mold-breakers, but they are so damn challenging that often we lose steam and let them go.

Rock on,
Ralph Covert

P.S. RE: RnRHOF: Something/Anything alone qualifies him. Add the rest of the CV... wow.

And yet. Yeah, he can be grating. I opened for him years ago. I was so excited to be there, but he was so LOUD and self-indulgent that I left two songs into his set and never met him. I guess I was the vodka and tonic and he was the Angostura bitters. Still, he deserves the credit for his talent.

Just sayin'.

____________________________________________

O yes - with more talent than most earthlings have the capacity to understand - indeed Todd is God!

- Milkweed (Malcolm Clark)

____________________________________________

For those of us who have always loved Todd intensely, it's impossible to understand how the HOF didn't induct him decades ago. His body of work blows away most. His writing, playing and singing are among the best, how many other artists can do it all!? Wizard remains one of my most treasured records, a freakin masterpiece, as is Side one of Initiation. Todd is God indeed!

Adam Bernstein

____________________________________________

From the first Nazz record I bought in high school in 1969, I've been a huge Todd fan. When you line up all the brilliant albums he's either created, played on or produced, it's staggering. Side story, earlier this year I went to a Sparks show here in Manhattan with a good friend, who's Japanese. Todd produced the iteration of Sparks called Half Nelson. The next day he sent me a YouTube video by a Japanese group I'd never heard of Fishmans. The track was a live, 45 minute opus called "Long Season", that is staggeringly brilliant and poignant as the singer died a few months later, in 1995. It's the finest long song I've ever heard. Since then, I've bought every Fishmans CD and then starting listening and buying every CD from Polaris, the group of surviving members of Fishmans. Todd produced one Fishmans/Polaris in Woodstock but I can't find it right now. What remains true over all these years is Todd is a wizard, a true star.

Jeff Capshew

____________________________________________

Bob:
Coming from a long time hard core Rundgren fan, I could quibble with some of your choices, but wholeheartedly agree that
Nazz version of "Hello Its Me" is preferred
"Ballad" is an underappreciated gem
Also:
Just about all of us have a record that changed their lives. Something/Anything was mine

It is a travesty that he was passed over by the RRHOF, but your recognition provides some welcome balm to the fans….who are the ones most affected by this. I doubt that Todd cares a bit.
But…for the record…the RRHOF conducted fan balloting for several months. Todd placed third. Everyone in the top five was admitted except him. Artists (ahem) with much fewer votes were admitted. Bob….is there any reason to believe anything other that that this sham was jerking us off. They had no intention of putting him in.

And, although this may sound like sour grapes….Stevie Nicks was elected on her SOLO CAREER. She is already in on as a member of the Mac. I would venture that most anyone listening to her solo work, if asked, would say it was the Mac. Her solo stuff sounds like Mac outtakes. Actually like less memorable cuts on a Mac album. She didn't move the needle one bit. Yet she was admitted. Makes no sense to me. Maybe we need to get the Nazz inducted and then shoot for Todd to get in!

No one on the list had a stronger resume than Todd. Not even close.

Ed Wolfman
Manhattan Beach, CA

____________________________________________

WOW. Wasn't sure I'd ever hear Nazz or Paul Fishkin ever mentioned again in my post WLIR (Ken Kohl/seagull years ) life ! Kudos

Bob Shavelson

____________________________________________

Dear Bob,

Yes. This is exactly right.

Bravo!

Christopher Meindl

____________________________________________

Amen!

Mike Bone

____________________________________________

Todd rules! My name's on the poster. (I think you'll know what that means).

Robert Miranda

____________________________________________

Re: "Hello It's Me"--Yes, you are the only person who prefers the non-Todd vocal original. Congratulations.

George Regis

____________________________________________

Todd Rundgren is a true rock pioneer and a prolific musical genius. His absence from the RRHF leaves you questioning the institution itself. It's similar to Lou Gehrig not being in the Baseball Hall of Fame. - Andrew Bleke / Atlanta

____________________________________________

Completely agree!!

Steve Whitfield

____________________________________________

Well put Bob,
I saw Todd twice in Toronto in the seventies...he had a huge impact on my music in his approach to live performance and especially his undeniable prowess in the studio...A true Giant in the world of recording arts!...All the Best! - R

Randy Dawson

____________________________________________

I agree that Todd needs to be in the RRHOF and wanted to add a shout-out to a couple of personal favorites to your list... "Under the Ice" from Nazz Nazz (I believe I had the original pressing on red vinyl) and "Breathless" (with the "sounds of the studio" intro, of course) from Something/Anything.

Dave

____________________________________________

Amen Bob. Todd is God. The most versatile inventive singular artist of all time. Bless you for this spotlight. Your influence is huge and at least there is some satisfaction in you letting your vast industry audience take note. However, who knows if he'd even show up to except an award. Lol. I have always been blessed and thankfully been able to make a buck doing what I love although flying under the radar but it was Todd Rundgren who inspired me not to become an imitation of myself and take chances. He reinvented the wheel at every turn and is unmatched. Happy Holidays. Peppy Castro

____________________________________________

So Bob?
Are you presenting the evidence of Rundgren's greatness to prove that the HOF is a sham org full of bloated egos? Or that Todd Rundgren really couldn't give a shit about it?

It's all about the work, not the awards, isn't it?......but I get your point.

Steve Chrismar

____________________________________________

Hall of Fame.

That's for people/bands that are all time greats. Todd Rundgren is not even close to that. Sure you may get a warm fuzzy feeling thinking about some of the things hes done. But Hall of Fame?? The Rock & Roll hall of Fame is diluted enough. Please don't advocate for this guy to get in.

Lee Tachman

____________________________________________

"With A Twist" where he re-invented his classic hits with a Bossa Nova beat. Terrific record and way out of his expected territory.

Good piece Bob

Lavon Pagan

____________________________________________

Saw Todd at The Coach House a couple of weeks ago. Hall Of Fame? Does it matter? No. Should he be inducted? Hell yeah!
Joseph Barbarotta

____________________________________________

Preach on brother, preach on.
Thanks
Dave Moskal

____________________________________________

Here here!

Joe Selinsky

____________________________________________

I was driving to LaGuardia today and heard this year?s inductees.

I was gobsmacked.

Todd had been running a solid third place throughout the voting. Janet
Jackson wasn't even on the realistic radar.

His bonafides are impeccable.

I could easily come up with a list as comprehensive and yet totally
different from yours.

Is his exclusion due to his long-stated stance that if elected he would
not run?

William Nollman

____________________________________________

Thank you for this. So well put as always.
...I feel a little better...

Douglas Haight

____________________________________________

God Bless You! I have been praying for this for him. Brian Wilson Todd Rundgren both on my American Rock Rushmore

Jan Uvena

____________________________________________

I completely agree with you, but....Andy Partridge "came around" a long time ago (the early 90s) on _Skylarking_, at the least. I think Todd's a world-historical genius (that isn't a original opinion), but as he said on that 1972 2-lp landmark, "It Takes Two to Tango": he does bear responsibility here, and lately he's been the one digging up the hatchet again. AP wasn't the first or last person to be at loggerheads with TR.

Marshall Armintor

____________________________________________

Amen!!

Shalaman1

____________________________________________

Here...Here...Bloody well Righteous.
About time and thank you.

DR G

____________________________________________

so true, bob. back in the day, todd sounded like nobody else; a real innovator, which should count for a lot. recently saw him on tour in a club that was packed with plenty of young people who were blown away, just as i was.
i don't know if he's god, but he certainly belongs in the r&rhof. thanks for a great read.

happy holidays,
mary e.

____________________________________________

Amen! I am truly befuddled how Todd Rundgren can be on the outside looking in on the RRHOF. He defines what a rock n roll artist should be. Very few artists share a list of credentials like his. I saw him perform this year and it was one of the best show I have seen in years.

Thanks for reminding us of his accomplishments! Let's make sure that he won't have to wait much longer to be inducted.

Neil Barry

____________________________________________

i'm sure you will have plenty of people mentioning "Bang on my Drum All Day" and maybe a few bringing up "hammer in my heart" but I think the first 2 Utopia records when he was totally progressive still sound great...or maybe it's just college nostalgia....thanks for reminding me just how great he was/is.

Louis Heidelmeier

____________________________________________

"Todd is God."

Amen.

NR Davis

____________________________________________

You missed maybe his best song, Love in Action, a cut you want to listen to over and over and over again. You can't stop it.

Les Jacobson

____________________________________________

You've made your case here for Todd. Should have been inducted in Round 1. He should be in because he embodies the Rock 'n' Roll spirit of not being afraid to EVER take a chance. He produced "War Babies" for Hall & Oates, another masterpiece. The album was the last album H+O would record on Atlantic before recording the "Silver" album for RCA where everyone thought Daryl was not a guy, and that maybe he and John were lovers. But with "War Babies" you have Todd, Daryl and Jon (3 guys from Philly) singing some of the greatest harmonies ever, on top of tracks produced by Todd. To this day it remains one of the most revolutionary LP's ever.

Is he God? Maybe not. But as a well known philosopher once said: "if he didn't exist, we'd have to create him anyway."

Tommy Val

____________________________________________

Amen Bob !!
Gotta mention my personel favorite " Boat On The Charles "

Joeph Carvello

____________________________________________

Nazz red vinyl classic...

Michael Fremer

____________________________________________

Let's not forget he produced "Love Junk" by The Pursuit of Happiness, one of the greatest pop punk records ever made. With the smash "I'm An Adult Now". https://open.spotify.com/track/7vXlSizoki8ozTuM8Eh46K?si=Q3guIpe-SrGFTWbHJ_5spA

Jake Gold

____________________________________________

Hey Bob - I became a Todd fan from that opening snare crack on Open My Eyes. Agree – Todd belongs!

Tony D'Amelio

____________________________________________

Todd has established his talent, versatility and genius over the years. The HofF needs him more than he needs them. He doesn't give a shit. I'll go see him anytime anyplace.

John Brodey

____________________________________________

Love Todd, love you playlist but you left off 70's Scenario from Hall & Oates, War Babies album produced by Todd !

I spent a night in Cannes with Daryl, he was taking requests at 3am in a bar at Midem. I asked him to play 70's Scenario but he couldn't remember the chords !

Todd's a genius and I never use that word too often.

Thanks for keeping great music alive and kicking,
Martin Hanlin

____________________________________________

'Todd is God'

Yes.

Steve Roberts

____________________________________________

Have you heard him on WTF with Marc Maron, Bob? Not a huge fan of Maron but it's an amazing podcast, well worth the listen.

Jon Chapple

____________________________________________

Thank you!

Sam Schauer

____________________________________________

My favorite works by Todd Rundgren is has work with Utopia. It was way ahead of its time, and I considered it game-changing. Favorites include 'Freak Parade' and 'The Icon'.
- Philbo King

____________________________________________

Todd is indeed God. I loved A Wizard A True Star and filled in the postcard and got my name on the Todd insert. My old band The Records wanted Todd to produce us and asked his manager Eric Gardner when we bumped into him in NY, but no could do. I love what Todd did with XTC, too bad Andy didn't like it. Long Flowing Robe, Can We Still Be Friends, in fact all of Hermit, and those hit productions. And Todd's not in the hall? Shame on those who didn't vote for him. Maybe next year.

Will Birch

____________________________________________

I know, and I'm a believer: Todd is God!

henpman

____________________________________________

Amen Bob.

Something Anything is a masterpiece and alongside Spilt Milk by Jellyfish the greatest record of all time in my house.

Johnny Wilks
Kscope
London

____________________________________________

Thank you for this!

Todd is a lot more than "Hello It's Me" and "Bang on the Drum All Day."

In 1979 I saw him for the first time at Dr. Pepper Music Festival in NYC with Utopia. Utopia performed not only the favorite "Caravan" that Todd wrote, but also "Something's Coming" from West Side Story and "Bolero" by Ravel.

Todd has always been one of music's most unique and creative minds and he is a hall of famer to all his devoted fans and friends.

Donna Balancia

P.S. That was the nicest - thank you! And yes, Todd is God. So sweet.

____________________________________________

Holy jeez, Bob...this is why I love you and The Letter. I spent a pretty good part of today commenting on HOF griping posts, pointing out how happy I was that TR finally got nominated, but that I fully expected him to get passed over...not only because he'd probably not even show up, but also if he did, he'd never pony up the $10k seats (not that he - or anyone - should) for his guests. And he'd probably verbally burn down the damn building in his speech.

But back to the original point, you not only reminded me of reasons why Todd is God...but also taught me some I didn't know. "Love My Way" is a song I've loved forever...I had no idea TR had anything to do with it.

You're tops,
jeff.g

____________________________________________

Dear Bob,
I'm not sure if Todd Is God,
if so, XTC would have titled
their brilliant song Dear Todd.

Yes, TR belongs in the rock and roll hall of fame.

He deserves it.

And speaking of the New York Dolls,
add them to the list as well. No Dolls,
No Pistols. To know them is to love them.

Let's not forget "A Woofer in Tweeter's Clothing"
by Sparks featuring "Girl From Germany" (which
should have been a hit single) produced by Todd.

And I'm of those who had "no taste in music" (thank you!)
who loved Grand Funk Railroad from their first album. Todd's
production of "American Band" is one of the great
singles of all time.

What is the R+RHOF waiting for? What will it take for them to
"Open Their Eyes?"

Marvin Etzioni

____________________________________________

Todd !! Absolutely. Well documented.

Also, equally, John Prine, Gram Parsons, Doug Sahm ... those 4 ommissions are just WRONG, and, IMHO, damage R&RHoF's credibility! No brainers that deserve to be in ahead of quite a few that already are.

Al Moss

____________________________________________

What a spectacular fail on the part of the R&RHoF!

The achievements on your list would / should have been enough for any nominee to be inducted with flying colors. And those only scratch the surface of Todd's vast body of work.

Best wishes,

Lee Elliott

____________________________________________

Nice and comprehensive article. I hope Todd gets in. It would be very sad if he doesn't.

Take care.
Mark Blumenthal

____________________________________________

The Last Ride. I got more mileage out of that as the go to soundtrack when I needed it most if you catch my drift. Aside from that I practically learned songwriting from Something/Anything.
Geoffrey Cushing-Murray

____________________________________________

It sickens me that Janet Jackson is in, and Todd is not. He was #3 in the fan vote...but not inducted. What a farce. I wonder what Jann Wenner has against him.

I'm looking forward to seeing his "Individualist" book/music hybrid tour at the Wiltern.

Thank you, Bob for your letter...it's the highlight of my inbox.

Nora Kelly

____________________________________________

"Marlene." One of my favorite songs ever...

Thanks,

Ben Kittner

____________________________________________

He also produced Jill Sobule's first and arguably most compelling album
"Things Here Are Different"

Susan L. Dodes

____________________________________________

And the God once wrote these poignant words:

You know, wishing won't make it so
Hoping won't do it, praying won't do it
Religion won't do it, philosophy won't do it
The supreme court won't do it,
The president and the congress won't do it
The sun won't do it, the h-bomb won't do it,
The sun and the moon won't do it
And God won't do it,
And I certainly won't do it
That leaves you, you'll have to do it

(Fair Warning)

Graham Perkins (Gray London)

____________________________________________

And he could put on a show. The Pyramid tour in the late 70's was spectacular for the times. Lights, fire, waterfalls and a summer salt off of a 20 foot tall pyramid while shredding one of his patented guitar solos. I don't even know how we found out about shows before the internet and e-mail but we never missed a Todd show.

Chris Gottlieb

____________________________________________

I saw Todd Rundgren last summer with Ringo. Great show, great band. But Todd stood out. He performed with such sincerity. And he sang his ass off. I was super impressed. He should and will be in the Hall of Fame.

Steve Cole

____________________________________________

Did you listen to the WTF podcast with Todd? Fantastic. Not a pleasant interview necessarily because Todd literally doesn't put up with any nonsense and that clearly plays out in his creative output as well. It's a laundry list of not just hits but benchmark songs that spans decades. He strikes me as an artist who serves the art before the business . . . he just happens to be savvy enough to have often married the two.
Cheers!

Keith R. Higgons

____________________________________________

Thanks for the Todd missive.
I couldn't agree more.
Next to "unsung musical hero" in the dictionary, is a picture of our Todd.
The people that know, KNOW, the ones that don't, fuck 'em.

Merry, Happy
Ellyn Solis

____________________________________________

Well said. Many more great songs, genre shifts and production gigs too numerous to mention. One of the best. Todd and so many more (Richard Thompson, Warren Zevon) belong in the Hall but the Hall, after all, is bullshit. It's turning into the Grammys which have always been and remain meaningless.

As Todd once said, "Play it loud."

Harold Love

____________________________________________

From the first Nazz record I bought in high school in 1969, I've been a huge Todd fan. When you line up all the brilliant albums he's either created, played on or produced, it's staggering. Side story, earlier this year I went to a Sparks show here in Manhattan. The next day I pulled out their first album and noticed Todd produced it. He's a wizard, a true star. I'm happy The Cure, Roxy Music and especially The Zombies getting in the HOF but really, Todd should be in there.
Jeff Capshew

____________________________________________

I whole heartedly agree. In fact many, many, many years ago as a student at Upper Darby High, where I shared lockers with his brother Robin (whose Facebook page I just found so I'll share your post with him), I and another student tried to get him inducted onto the Upper Darby High School Wall of Fame along with Jim Croce, and a few other notables (which would later include Tina Fey whose Mean Girls was inspired by UDHS). The authorities would not grant this honor to Todd because technically he did not actually graduate, and that was simply because apparently he had refused to cut his hair thus he was not issued a diploma. There is an issue of Rolling Stone Magazine from probably 1976 or 1977 where, in one of the columns toward the front of the magazine where they actually mention this pursuit of "two high school students from Upper Darby High" -- every so often I think about going to the main library--of "the library that puts on fishnets and hits the disco" fame (I live in Seattle now) to review back issues of Rolling Stone and find this little mention just for the fun of it. If I do I will copy and send to you.

warm regards,

Debra "I'd Vote For Todd" Bouchegnies (formerly Kaminsky)

____________________________________________

Thanks for your take on Todd. He has been overlooked for the Rock n Roll Hall of Fame for sure. You covered so many great points as to why he should be in. Two things to share with you connected to Todd.

One...Love Is The Answer (the video) has been posted on my Facebook page a couple of times recently with the same lyrics that you quoted for the very reason that you stated. I strongly agree with you that the song is more relevant (and needed) today than it was 40+ years ago. Your recognition of this brought tears to my eyes. "Ask the man in your heart for the answer"

Two...I'm a 36 year radio vet who finds himself blessed with the opportunity to drive rideshare to supplement my income. A couple of weeks back I was called to The Belly Up Tavern in Solana Beach (North San Diego County) and as I rolled up to the front doors (well before the show for that evening was to conclude) I noticed a much older gentleman being escorted to my vehicle by a young man in his 20's. I was interested in who was playing the venue that night so my attention was focused on the marquee instead of focusing on the man entering my car in the seat directly behind me. Todd Rundgren is what the marquee stated. "Holy shit Todd Rundgren is playing tonight!?" I said. "If I had known that I would have parked the car for the evening and caught the show." I tried to hear what he was playing at that moment and I asked the younger man what song it was. His answer was "he's playing mostly cover tunes on this tour." At this point the older man behind me chimed in with "I wanted to hear Hello It's Me and he's not going to play it tonight." "Damn" I thought to myself, "what a shame." The young man asked me to get his dad home safely and headed back inside. As we began the drive and I looked for "Hello It's Me" on my iPod (yes I have it) I commented to the older man "In my opinion Todd Rundgren is one of the great composers of pop music that we have ever seen. A pure talent in so many ways, a genius." "Hello It's Me" started to play and I increased the volume for his enjoyment. He was going to hear that song tonight one way or another. About two verses in he commented "What an amazing song. So well crafted." We exchanged our love for Todd and his talents and I shared with him that I loved music and that I had worked in radio for years. As I approached his destination I realized that I was about to drop him off in an area of expensive homes. Fully aware that my passenger may be "somebody" I asked "excuse me, do you mind if I ask what you do or what you did for a living?" He came back with "I'm a musician and composer." I inquired "would know any of your work?" and he replied "probably, I'm Burt Bacharach!" Here was the master of pop compositions praising Todd. 'Nuff said.

Bryan Schock

____________________________________________

Bob
re: Todd
You missed this one-
"Healing" Little known
album. It is profoundly
brilliant in every way-
top to bottom.
Joe Walsh

____________________________________________

hey bob,

todd rundgren deserves to be president of the united states.

or better yet, czar of planet earth.

the rock and roll hall of fame is a low ball for him.

i think todd is one of the greatest singer/songwriters in history.

in the league of lennon, mccartney, dylan, gamble and huff and richard rogers.

he is deeply loved and appreciated by his fans.

thanks for the great article.

rick nowels

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