Carol Kaye, an esteemed bassist known for her work on numerous iconic tracks in the 1960s, has emphatically rejected her induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame (RRHOF). At 90 years old, Kaye informed The Associated Press that she has “declined the RRHOF. Permanently.” Her decision comes shortly after a now-deleted Facebook post in which she stated her refusal to attend the awards show in November, where she was to be honored alongside legends like Joe Cocker and Cyndi Lauper.
Kaye articulated her discontent with the RRHOF, arguing that it fails to adequately recognize the contributions of studio musicians during the 1960s. Her impressive resume includes bass lines for influential songs such as Simon & Garfunkel’s “Homeward Bound” and the Beach Boys’ “Good Vibrations.” Alongside notable studio musicians like drummer Hal Blaine and guitarist Tommy Tedesco, she was part of the collective referred to as “The Wrecking Crew,” a label she has expressed distaste for, calling it “a terrible insulting name.”
Kaye’s sentiments reflect a broader issue regarding the recognition of studio musicians in the industry. Despite her rejection, her contribution to music remains undeniable; her work laid the foundation for a multitude of hits that shaped the era. While many artists have accepted induction either posthumously or upon declining, Kaye’s firmly stated position is notable. She joins a small group of artists, like the Sex Pistols and Dolly Parton, who have also publicly rejected the Hall, highlighting ongoing debates about the honor’s worth and representation of musical talent.
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