Billy Joel passionately called for the induction of Joe Cocker into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in a newly uncovered video that has recently captured the attention of music fans. In this compelling footage, Joel is seen reading a heartfelt letter he penned to the Rock Hall back in 2014, a time when Cocker’s health was declining. Tragically, Cocker passed away on December 22 of that same year. Joel shared this poignant reading with filmmaker John Edginton in 2016, just moments before he took the stage at Madison Square Garden for Edginton’s acclaimed 2017 documentary titled Joe Cocker: Mad Dog With Soul. This powerful moment did not make it into the final version of the film, but it has now resurfaced, allowing fans to watch and read Joel’s heartfelt plea in its entirety, especially as it coincides with Cocker’s first Rock Hall nomination this year.

READ MORE: 5 Compelling Reasons Why Joe Cocker Deserves Recognition in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

Explore the Full Text of Billy Joel’s Letter Advocating for Joe Cocker’s Induction into the Rock Hall

The complete text of Joel’s heartfelt letter urging the Rock Hall to recognize Cocker is as follows:

As a proud member of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame since 1999, I have long cherished the hope of seeing Joe Cocker honored with an induction. The first time I experienced his music in 1969, I was profoundly moved by his incredibly raw and soulful vocal style. That year marked a pivotal moment in my life. It was the year I attended the historic Woodstock festival, purchased the groundbreaking first Led Zeppelin album, and heard Joe Cocker perform ‘With a Little Help From My Friends.’ To me, Joe was the most powerful interpretative male vocalist in rock ‘n’ roll since I first encountered the iconic early recordings of Ray Charles. In my view, no artist has come close to matching his primal vocal power in the rock genre. I feel incredibly strongly that Joe Cocker deserves serious consideration for induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. I sincerely hope you will consider placing his name on this year’s voting ballot.

Notable Rock Legends Supporting Joe Cocker’s Induction into the Rock Hall

Despite Joel’s passionate and heartfelt appeal, he revealed that the Rock Hall never acknowledged his letter. In a humorous tone, he remarked, “Shows you how much impact I have.” However, Joel is not alone in his advocacy for Cocker’s recognition. The legendary vocalist, who has been eligible for induction since 1994, has also garnered support from fellow rock icon Paul McCartney. In an open letter addressed to all fans of rock music, McCartney expressed his admiration for Cocker.

“Joe was a remarkable man and an exceptional singer whose unique style led to some unforgettable performances,” McCartney wrote. He specifically mentioned Cocker’s rendition of their song, ‘With a Little Help From My Friends,’ which was produced by Denny Cordell and noted for its imaginative qualities.

“The members of the induction panel will undoubtedly recognize the immense contribution Joe made to the legacy of Rock and Roll,” McCartney added. “While he may not have actively sought a place in the Hall of Fame, I am confident he would be immensely grateful and overjoyed to find himself among such esteemed company.”

Fans eager to see Joe Cocker honored can voice their support by participating in the Rock Hall's daily fan voting, which remains open until April 21.