Stanley told the black tie clad crowd, "Here we are, basically inducted for the same things that we were kept out for. The people are speaking to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and what they're saying is that they want more. They don't want to be spoon-fed with a handful of choices.

"The people buy tickets, the people buy albums, the people who nominate do not. Let's not forget that these are the people who make it all possible. We just benefit from it.

"I am here tonight because of the people who inspired me, but I am also here because of the people I inspired. So God bless you all. It's a wonderful night."