Overview
- On the LegendsNLeaders podcast, the KISS bassist said hip-hop "does not belong" in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, adding "I don't come from the ghetto" and describing rap as primarily spoken word.
- He contrasted Iron Maiden’s absence from the Hall with Grandmaster Flash’s induction and asked when Led Zeppelin would be in a Hip-Hop Hall of Fame.
- Major outlets reported the remarks, with several characterizing them as racially or culturally insensitive, and Billboard and The Hollywood Reporter noted the Rock Hall had no immediate comment.
- The Rock Hall has long inducted hip-hop artists including N.W.A., Jay-Z, Eminem and Missy Elliott, and defenders such as Ice Cube and CEO Greg Harris argue hip-hop embodies the spirit of rock.
- Simmons’ stance echoes past statements, including a 2016 interview where he said he was "looking forward to the death of rap."