Rock legends Dave Grohl and Josh Homme have joined forces in a campaign, not for their own accolades but to support the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction of Foreigner, a band long overdue for recognition, according to them and many others in the industry.
Oscar-nominated producer and songwriter Mark Ronson has launched a campaign to advocate for Foreigner’s induction into the Hall of Fame. Ronson’s stepfather, Mick Jones, is a founding member of Foreigner, contributing to Ronson’s personal connection to the band. He assembled a star-studded lineup for a video featuring testimonials from rockers like Grohl, Jack Black, Slash, Chad Smith, and Homme.
In the caption of the video, Ronson wrote:
“Everything that made me want to be a record producer came from being in the studio watching Foreigner make records. I’m still completely in awe of the sound of those first five albums. Guitars with swagger and bite. Heavy drums that groove like a mutha with the bass. Wide layers of synths. And then there’s that voice. And those songs. It’s really crazy. It’s also kind of crazy that this is the first time they’ve ever been on the ballot for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame – after 20 years of eligibility.”
Celebrating Foreigner’s Influence
His message continued, reflecting on the ‘influence’ aspect as a basis for induction:
“So we had to celebrate by getting some very special friends (aka Jack Black, Josh Homme, Slash, Dave Grohl & Chad Smith) to show love. Fun Facts: Foreigner are the most-played band on classic rock radio to not be in the Hall of Fame. They’ve been sung by our fave characters from ‘The Simpsons,’ ‘The Office,’ ‘I, Tonya,’ ‘Stranger Things’ and ‘Wet Hot American Summer.’ They’ve been covered by Diana Ross and Mariah Carey (what the rock band can boast that?).”
Mark lastly said:
“They were sampled and turned into ‘Hot Fire’ by M.O.P. (remember that ‘Cold As Ice’ joint?) and Tone-Loc, who used them to concoct some ‘Funky Cold Medina.’ Yes, Mick is my stepdad, and I love him more than anything. But I’m also a MEGA fan, just like Dave, Jack, Slash, Chad, and Josh (shown here). Enjoy this video and vote, baby vote! Love Mark.”
Homme And Grohl’s Tributes To Foreigner
Homme remarked in the video:
“You want to know what love is? Love is putting Foreigner in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Foreigner should absolutely be in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.”
Grohl shared his personal connection to the band, revealing:
“I’ve loved Foreigner since I got their debut record. There’s one drum riff that I have used in more than a few songs.”
With Foreigner on their farewell tour, questions arise about the possibility of a Rock Hall induction reuniting the original lineup for a special performance. Fans are hopeful to see founding members, including Lou Gramm, Dennis Elliott, and Al Greenwood, join Mick Jones for such an occasion, despite the passing of other original members, Ian McDonald and Ed Gagliardi.
You can see the post here.
