Pearl Jam, Tupac Shakur, Nile Rodgers (But Not Chic) Set For Rock Hall Of Fame Induction

Following a shortlist announced earlier in the fall, the six 2017 inductees for the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame have been sorted out. The lucky acts include: Joan Baez, Electric Light Orchestra, Journey, Pearl Jam, Tupac Shakur and Yes. And despite legendary disco outfit Chic winding up on the list of nominees for an 11th time this go-around, only band member Nile Rodgers was singled out. He’ll receive the Award for Musical Excellence at the 2017 ceremony.

Rodgers gave the following statement to Billboard regarding his recognition by the Rock Hall:

“I’m more shocked than anybody right now. I’m blown over because I didn’t expect to be singled out of Chic. So that’s weird right away. It’s just weird for me to be picked out of Chic and say, ‘Nile, you belong in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, but those other guys…’ Of course I am flattered and honored like crazy, but it’s sort of bittersweet for me because of all the things I’ve done that I’m exceptionally proud of, I’m really proud of Chic.”

Since the 1980s, Rodgers has written and produced material for a vast array of artists that includes Diana Ross, Deborah Harry, David Bowie, Madonna, Duran Duran, INXS, The B-52s and Daft Punk. Most recently, he lent his deft touch to Christina Aguilera‘s The Get Down soundtrack contribution, “Telepathy.” Billboard notes that Rodgers is currently mixing Blondie‘s upcoming album, while Chic’s long-awaited LP It’s About Time is finally due out at some point in the new year.

The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame ceremony will take place on April 7 at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center.

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