Carol Kaye, the esteemed bassist known for her contributions to numerous iconic 1960s hits, has publicly declined her induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame (RRHOF). The 90-year-old musician, who played bass on songs like “Good Vibrations” by the Beach Boys and “Homeward Bound” by Simon & Garfunkel, expressed her decision in an email to the Associated Press. She stated that she permanently rejects the honor, emphasizing that it doesn’t appropriately represent the work of studio musicians from the golden era she was part of.
Kaye’s announcement came shortly after a now-deleted Facebook post where she specifically mentioned her refusal to attend the upcoming RRHOF awards show, scheduled for November. She was slated to be inducted alongside recognized artists like Joe Cocker and Cyndi Lauper.
Kaye’s dissatisfaction stems partly from her association with the ensemble known as “The Wrecking Crew,” a term she finds derogatory, asserting, “I was never a ‘wrecker’ at all, that’s a terrible insulting name.” Her official RRHOF profile does not use this nickname, highlighting a disconnection between her image and the Hall of Fame’s portrayal of her work.
While induction into the RRHOF is a significant honor, Kaye’s decision to decline it underscores her desire for recognition that accurately reflects the contributions and experiences of session musicians. Historically, many artists have accepted or rejected their inductions—instances of refusal include the Sex Pistols and Dolly Parton, who later embraced the honor after initial reluctance. Hall representatives have yet to comment on Kaye’s decision.
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