The legendary Ted Nugent, known for his outspoken views and guitar prowess, did not hold back in his recent critique of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, boldly stating that the organization is “pissing in the face” of rock history. This statement underscores his passionate belief that the Hall is failing to honor the true pioneers of rock music.

During a recent interview with Sirius XM host Eddie Trunk, Nugent expressed his dismay over the Hall’s treatment of rock icons, specifically mentioning that it feels like they have disrespected legends such as Chuck Berry. “It says ROCK and Roll Hall of Fame. And they basically pissed on Chuck Berry’s grave, the way I look at it,” he asserted, highlighting his frustration with the current state of rock music recognition.

Nugent’s criticism intensified when the topic of Chubby Checker arose, a notable figure in early rock and roll who was notably absent from this year’s ballot. Nugent pointed out, “Chubby Checker, if he’s not in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, but Grandmaster Flash…,” emphasizing his view that the inclusion of certain artists is a disservice to the genre. He continued, “It’s just sacrilege. It’s just rude. It’s dishonest,” referring to the Hall’s decisions as a slap in the face to rock legends like Bo Diddley and Little Richard.

READ MORE: Explore the 25 Rock Stars Who Have Voiced Their Criticism of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

Nugent went further to criticize the Hall’s inclusion of artists from genres outside traditional rock, particularly pointing out hip hop, country, and pop music. He stated, “I’m referencing the difference between REAL rock and rollers and people who are in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame that have nothing to do with rock and roll, whether it’s Madonna or Grandmaster Flash,” calling some inductions “inexcusable” and indicative of a broader misunderstanding of what constitutes rock music.

Artists Ted Nugent Believes Deserve Recognition in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

As the conversation with Trunk progressed, Nugent went on to mention several artists he feels are deserving of a place in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. He highlighted Mitch Ryder and the Detroit Wheels, a significant band from the 1960s known for influential tracks like “Jenny Take a Ride” and “Devil With a Blue Dress On,” as well as some of his contemporaries who have made substantial contributions to rock music.

“If you list the credentials of why any real rock and roller is in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, I think we can come to the conclusion honestly that REO Speedwagon and Triumph and Styx should be in it,” Nugent asserted passionately. He also advocated for the Grand Funk Railroad‘s induction, asserting that they represent “the definitive soundtrack of real American rock and roll,” and should be recognized for their impact on the genre.

READ MORE: Discover Why Ted Nugent Wanted to Induct MC5 Into the Rock Hall

Despite his extensive career and influence in the music industry, Nugent himself has never been nominated for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. While he dedicated much of his interview time to promoting other artists, he candidly shared with Trunk that he believes his own contributions have been overlooked. “If you just have a list of credentials, a list of accomplishments, I certainly should have been in before Madonna or Grandmaster Flash,” he insisted, though he noted, “but I never make the case for me.”