Rumours are circling on the internet that Jimmy Cliff could be accepted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, with leading figures in the reggae industry posting it on facebook. There is as yet no conformation of this, but with the final list of inductees, chosen by 500 music biz people to be announced in January and the Induction Ceremony at the Waldorf Astoria in New York City set for March 15 these rumours are bound to gain pace over the coming weeks in the run up to the results.

If Jimmy is successful then this must surely be the pinnacle for a man whose career has stretched over 40yrs. There is no doubting in our opinion here at United Reggae that he fully deserves this accolade. He has released top selling singles 'You Can Get It If You Really Want' and the classic 'Many Rivers to Cross' plus his album 'The Harder They Come' and the movie that goes withy it helped introduce reggae to a wider audience and changed the image of reggae from that of a somewhat fun, novelty music to that of rebellion and inspiration, while also helping to open the door for Bob Marley's rise. This album has also been widely touted by many across all genres of music as having has a major influence on them.

Also if Jimmy is inducted it will be a major achievement for a genre that is sorely under represented. He is up against some big names with ABBA, Genesis and Kiss surely amongst the front runners. He is not without his supporters though, just check out www.jimmycliffforthehall.blogspot.com for an example. Let's just hope that this rumour is true and that one of reggaes real greats will get some recognition he deserves.

The full list of nominees is:

     ABBA
     The Chantels
     Jimmy Cliff
     Genesis
     The Hollies
     KISS
     LL Cool J
     Darlene Love
     Laura Nyro
     Red Hot Chili Peppers
     The Stooges
     Donna Summer