In a bold and unfiltered statement, Dennis DeYoung, the iconic former frontman of Styx, has sharply criticized the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, calling its induction practices “shameful” and accusing the institution of waiting until musicians are “incapacitated or dead” before honoring them.
DeYoung’s Frustration Reaches Boiling Point
Dennis DeYoung’s remarks come in response to the recent 2025 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony. In a lengthy message shared on his social media, he took aim at the Hall’s timing, highlighting how some inductees—both posthumous and living—are only honored long after their prime. He cited fellow rocker Paul Rodgers of Bad Company, who, due to health reasons, could not perform at this year’s induction—something DeYoung said could have been avoided if the honor had come earlier.
DeYoung didn’t restrain his criticism: he blamed the Hall’s 25-year eligibility rule for delaying recognition, argued that the Hall’s name no longer reflects its mission, and called on the organization to rebrand itself altogether. According to him, the institution should be renamed to reflect a broader “Contemporary Music Hall of Fame” if it aims to stay relevant.
A Rock Legend Seeks Respect
As a founder and key creative force behind Styx, Dennis DeYoung helped shape some of the band’s most enduring classics—songs like “Come Sail Away,” “The Best of Times,” and “Babe” all carry his songwriting signature. Despite his deep impact on the band’s legacy, DeYoung has long expressed frustration that Styx has never been formally inducted into the Hall of Fame.
His recent comments reflect a broader frustration among veteran artists: DeYoung argues that the Hall’s selection process is unfairly slow, and that many musicians never see real-time acknowledgment. He described the organization’s mission statement as “a ruse” that shields personal biases in induction decisions.
What Sparked the Backlash
The catalyst for DeYoung’s outburst was the induction of the 2025 class—a lineup that included celebrated musicians who either never performed at the ceremony or were inducted posthumously. For DeYoung, this underscores his belief that the Rock Hall has lost sight of its purpose.
He questioned why artists like Joe Cocker and Warren Zevon were only recognized long after their peak, and expressed regret that Paul Rodgers couldn’t appear due to his health struggles. DeYoung framed the issue as not just a personal grievance, but as a systemic failure that disrespects musical legend and erodes the Hall’s credibility.
Legacy, Outspoken Truths, and the Road Forward
Dennis DeYoung has never been shy about speaking his mind. Over the years, he has reflected on his departure from Styx, his solo career, and the bittersweet legacy of his contributions. While he no longer tours with Styx, his voice continues to resonate—both musically and politically.
By calling out the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, DeYoung is not just defending his own legacy; he’s making a stand for the recognition of many artists whose work might otherwise be overlooked until it’s too late.
His challenge to the institution is simple yet profound: if the Hall is truly about celebrating rock’s greatest voices, then it needs to do so on its terms—not after it’s convenient.
Credit: PopScopeNow.com — November 16, 2025
