Carol Kaye Declines 2025 Rock Hall Induction

Carol Kaye, the legendary 90-year-old bassist and session musician, has declined her 2025 induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, arguing that the recognition fails to honor the collaborative work of studio musicians in the 1960s. Kaye, who performed on an estimated 10,000 recordings with major artists such as The Beach Boys and Simon & Garfunkel, objects to the 'Wrecking Crew' label, calling it inaccurate and criticizing its use in the 2008 documentary and by drummer Hal Blaine. She insists that musicians like her were known simply as 'Studio Musicians' and that the honor should reflect their collective contributions. Despite her refusal to participate, the Rock Hall plans to honor her in absentia. Kaye's stance has sparked renewed debate over how the music industry credits behind-the-scenes talent. Her actions highlight ongoing frustration about the marginalization of team efforts in music recognition.