Pop Quiz: Grandmaster Flash

Pop Quiz: Grandmaster Flash

Aidin Vaziri | We knew Van Halen, R.E.M. and Patti Smith were sure things. But it was a bit of a shock to see that Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five made the list of this year's inductees into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The hip-hop pioneers had been turned away twice before, despite the enduring popularity of their hits "The Message" and "White Lines." But thanks to an unexpected moment of clarity, Flash (born Joseph Saddler) and his former crew will hold court as the first rap act in the hall. We spoke to the New York DJ, 49, who hosts the weekly "Flash Mash" show on Sirius Satellite Radio, about the forthcoming ceremony, which will take place March 12 at the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel.

Grandmaster Flash
Q: Can you believe they put you in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame ahead of Journey?
A: The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, like, if I were to paint a mental picture, was this incredible castle way far, far away. And I picture this castle having three moats with alligators and sharks. You can see it, but you can't go in.
Q: Knowing how much the board loves Tom Petty, what other hip-hop acts do you think they're realistically going to let in?
A: Kurtis Blow is a possibility. Sugarhill Gang is a possibility. I want to see people like KRS-One, Big Daddy Kane, LL Cool J.
Q: It's not going to happen. We'll be lucky to get MC Hammer.
A: I hear what you're saying. I'm just giving you my wish list.
Q: I'm just surprised they let you in.
A: Me, too! I thought no way that is going to happen. Everybody who went in was either a vocalist or a musician. I'm the only DJ. I'm one of a kind. Whatever else happens after this, I was the first oddball in there.