The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame + Museum


These Women Rock

Monday, May 23: 4:56 p.m.
Posted by Meredith Rutledge
Inductees Darlene Love and Wanda Jackson plus Cyndi Lauper attend the Women Who Rock opening.

This past week the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame opened its new exhibit devoted to telling the story of some of rock and roll’s most iconic artists to rave reviews. The Wall Street Journal called Women Who Rock: Vision, Passion, Power “thoroughly entertaining” and the Huffington Post said “It’s a must-see.” Here’s a look back at opening night from Meredith Rutledge, who lead the exhibit’s curation.

The opening of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s new Women Who Rock was a grand series of “wow” moments that are difficult to put into words. The first happened when Darlene Love looked at her section in the new inductee exhibit and then her display in the Women Who Rock exhibit.  If that wasn’t a big enough thrill, I was lucky enough to witness Darlene, Cyndi Lauper and Wanda Jackson all meeting for the first time. The three legends hugged and traded compliments with laughter and tears. Just when I thought it couldn’t get any better, inductee Ronnie Spector made a surprise appearance on the main stage, grabbing the microphone. I thought my head was going to explode when I saw Darlene step over to the Museum’s fourth floor balcony and sing backup with Ronnie belting out “Be My Baby.”  As far as I’m concerned, it just doesn’t get any better than this. It was a fantastic opening night.



- -

Comments (7)

I really hope Brenda Lee get a great spot in this programe. In Europe she was the first female singer Idol in the early sixties. I remember her enter the scene after the beatles warmed up for her.

John (germany)

John Lewis | Thursday, June 2: 10:19 a.m.

Went to the HOF for the first time, and what a great place! Loved the "Women Who Rock" exhibit. One question to those who vote: how can Pat Benatar not be in the HOF? Sure, Blonde, Patty Smith, and the Pretenders are in, and should be. But tell me how Pat Benatar, who sold more records than all of these three put together, not be in? baffles my mind! Great time and a must see museum.

Paul | Thursday, June 23: 2:52 p.m.

I think the R&RHOF needs to change it's criteria from the opinions of a clique of a few hundred unknown voters to actual guidelines and time limits.

Rusty | Wednesday, June 29: 7:47 p.m.

When oh when will you induct PAT BENATAR?? This is so overdue!! She was and is the role model for the TRUE female rocker!

Brian Spiller | Monday, July 18: 6:10 p.m.

I agree with Brian... PAT BENATAR!

Melissa | Friday, July 22: 3:57 p.m.

Just watched the PBS special on "Women Who Rock". I must say that I was truely shocked and disappointed that Pat Benatar was not mentioned.

Sophia | Saturday, November 19: 10:32 p.m.

Pat Benatar was the most powerful female rocker in the late 1970s and 1980s in the U.S.A. as well as other parts of the world, including here in Canada. We have been waiting far too long for her exceptional abilities and contributions to be honored . NOW is the time for her induction, while she can still accept, acknowledge and treasure this most deserved award. Priority of induction should be given first to those worthy that live (and Pat is definitely worthy), for the dead certainly cannot appreciate this ultimate tribute for an artist's precious offerings and sacrifices made for ROCK AND ROLL.

Dan | Saturday, January 21: 2:38 a.m.