Rock and Roll Hall of Fame 2011 Inductees Announced

On Tuesday, the incoming class for the 2011 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame was announced from a pool of 15 eligible artists. While the official announcement wasn't expected to come until Wednesday, the Associated Press reports that the following artists made the final Class of 2011: Neil Diamond, Alice Cooper, Tom Waits, Dr. John and Darlene Love. Additionally, Leon Russell will receive an award for musical excellence.

Both Diamond and Love have had multiple bids for entrance into the Hall before finally making the cut this year, while Cooper, although never formally nominated, was also previously discussed in conjunction with the Hall. All three, separately, told the Associated Press that they knew it would happen eventually -- but that they're thrilled it's finally happening.

"I am still recovering from the news," Tom Waits said in a statement. "I never really cared about the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, but now I am surprised to discover how much I DO care. Frankly, I'm wondering if I did something wrong?"

Artists are only eligible to be nominated for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame 25 years after they first officially released any recorded music, meaning this year's nominees all broke into the business no later than 1985. As with Diamond and Love, it often takes multiple attempts before finally being granted entry. So, in other words, the Beastie Boys, Bon Jovi, Donovan, Kiss and all the others who didn't make the cut this year are still in the running down the line.

The induction ceremony for the Class of 2011 will take place on March 14 in New York and will be televised on Fuse.