Like Foreigner last year, Joe Cocker has earned the most coveted accolade for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s shortlist of nominees: the Beatle endorsement. Paul McCartney wrote an open letter in support of Cocker’s induction for the Rock Hall’s 2025 class. The singer, who died in 2014, is one of 14 artists currently vying for the honor. Addressing the letter to “rock and rollers,” McCartney laid out the case for his old pal, none of which includes the Belushi impression. “Joe was a great man and a fine singer whose unique style made for some fantastic performances. He sang one of our songs ‘With a Little Help From My Friends,’ a version produced by Denny Cordell which was very imaginative,” he wrote. “All the people on the panel will be aware of the great contribution Joe made to the history of rock and roll. And whilst he may not have ever lobbied to be in the Hall of Fame, I know he would be extremely happy and grateful to find himself where he deserves to be amongst such illustrious company.” In a conversation with Vulture last year, Rock Hall chairman John Sykes said Cocker was high on his personal list of future inductees, saying, “He’s a deserving name.” But will the rest of the voting body be feelin’ alright with it? (Oh, oh.) Time will tell.
