Gene Simmons rips Rock & Roll Hall of Fame for embracing hip-hop: Its not my music

Published: Thursday, February 12, 2026 at 7:09 am

Gene Simmons Reignites Feud with Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Over Hip-Hop Inclusion

Gene Simmons, the iconic bassist and co-founder of the rock band KISS, has once again voiced his disapproval of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame's inclusion of hip-hop artists. Speaking on the LegendsNLeaders podcast, Simmons reiterated his long-held belief that hip-hop does not belong in the Hall, comparing its inclusion to that of opera or symphony orchestras.

Simmons, whose band KISS was inducted into the Hall in 2014, expressed his frustration that hip-hop pioneers like Grandmaster Flash have been inducted while influential metal bands like Iron Maiden remain excluded. He emphasized that hip-hop, which he views as primarily a spoken-word art form, does not align with his understanding of rock and roll. He also referenced his past disagreements with rapper Ice Cube, highlighting the ongoing debate surrounding the genre's place in the Hall.

Simmons' comments echo sentiments previously expressed by other prominent rock figures. He cited comments from Keith Richards of the Rolling Stones and Jerry Garcia of the Grateful Dead, who have also questioned hip-hop's musicality. Simmons' stance has sparked a long-standing feud, particularly after his 2015 comments about rap, which prompted a response from MC Ren during N.W.A.'s induction in 2016.

BNN's Perspective:

While the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame's mission is to celebrate the history of rock and roll, its definition of the genre has evolved over time. While some may disagree with the inclusion of hip-hop, the Hall's broader approach reflects the changing landscape of popular music. The debate highlights the ongoing tension between tradition and innovation within the music industry.

Keywords: Gene Simmons, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, hip-hop, KISS, Iron Maiden, Grandmaster Flash, Ice Cube, Keith Richards, Jerry Garcia, music, rap, spoken word, LegendsNLeaders podcast, N.W.A.

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