This week, I had a chance to catch the James Brown biopic “Get On Up.” Although I’ve been a fan of Brown’s music and funky style for decades, I never realized what he endured to earn the title of “The Godfather of Soul.” But the same could probably be said for anyone who chooses music as a career. There are very few “overnight” sensations, and even those people could tell you that their success was anything but overnight.

For almost 30 years now, the industry has recognized those who made the brutal climb to the top and remained relevant for 25 years or more, by inducting them into The Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame. The first induction took place on January 23, 1986, and included 10 mega-stars: Chuck Berry, James Brown, Ray Charles, Sam Cooke, Fats Domino, the Everly Brothers, Buddy Holly, Jerry Lee Lewis, Little Richard, and Elvis Presley—the very ROOTS of rock & roll! Every year since, the music industry shows its appreciation and respect for another roster of talented people who’ve made their musical mark on the world. On April 18, this year’s inductees will be Ringo Starr, Stevie Ray Vaughn & Double Trouble, Green Day, Lou Reed, Joan Jett & The Blackhearts and 3 others, bringing the 29-year total of inductees to 304! Read all the names and reminisce about your favorites at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame website.