Monday, April 11, 2016

Steve Miller Rips Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

After he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Steve Miller went off on his hosts in the press room. From this morning's New York Times...

Asked to expand on his criticisms of the organization, which was founded by industry heavyweights like Jann S. Wenner of Rolling Stone and has its museum in Cleveland, Mr. Miller said, “The whole process is unpleasant,” suggesting that it be “changed from the top to the bottom.”

“They need to respect the artists they say they’re honoring, which they don’t,” the singer continued, making references to issues like licensing agreements between the show and its honorees. (Friday’s ceremony will be broadcast by HBO on April 30.)

Mr. Miller, 72, then turned to the ceremony itself. “When they told me I was inducted they said, ‘You have two tickets — one for your wife and one for yourself. Want another one? It’s $10,000. Sorry, that’s the way it goes,’ ” he said, adding, “What about my band? What about their wives?”

When a publicist for the Rock Hall tried to interrupt him, Mr. Miller persisted. “No, we’re not going to wrap this up — I’m going to wrap you up,” he said. “You go sit down over there and learn something.”

Sheesh. Ten grand for tickets for your band members? Although, I must say that the Radio Hall of Fame does it in a similar fashion. When my old bosses Steve & Garry were inducted, I wanted to go to the ceremony to see them recieve their honor. I was told "That will be $3500 for a table, please."

I was happy for them. Just not $3500 happy for them.