KISS frontman Gene Simmons has reignited a long-running debate about the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame — and this time, his comments are once again putting the spotlight on rap and hip-hop’s place within the institution.
Speaking on the LegendsNLeaders podcast, Simmons questioned why certain legendary rock bands remain outside the Hall while several hip-hop pioneers have already been inducted. Citing Iron Maiden as an example, he pointed out that the band continues to sell out stadiums worldwide yet has not received the honor.
“The fact that Iron Maiden is not in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, when they can sell out stadiums, and Grandmaster Flash is?” Simmons remarked during the interview.
He also referenced a past exchange with rapper Ice Cube, acknowledging the artist’s intelligence and influence while maintaining that hip-hop is not a genre he personally relates to. Simmons emphasized that his stance isn’t rooted in disrespect, but in his belief that the Hall should primarily reflect traditional rock music.
“It’s not my music,” he said, adding that it doesn’t reflect his own background or musical upbringing.
The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame has long expanded beyond its original genre boundaries, inducting artists from R&B, pop, hip-hop, and other styles — arguing that “rock and roll” represents a spirit of cultural impact rather than a strict sound.
Simmons’ remarks have sparked renewed debate among fans and musicians alike. Supporters argue that rock bands with decades of influence deserve recognition, while others contend that hip-hop’s cultural and musical impact more than justifies its inclusion.
As the Hall continues to evolve, the conversation surrounding genre boundaries — and what truly defines “rock and roll” — shows no signs of fading anytime soon.
