By GERRY GALIPAULT

(January 2000)

To outsiders, the U.S. election process must seem like a colossal waste of time, money and effort.

They're right.

Republican and Democratic candidates duke it out in debates almost daily now. Hey, you can never hear enough about tax cuts, Social Security, Medicare and campaign financing from a bunch of multimillionaire politicians and a billionaire publisher. Nothing like a little perspective on lower- and middle-class America.

Some may feel the same about the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, that it's not about rock 'n' roll, it's about who you know and who carries a big stick, while the little guy - the under-appreciated artist - goes unnoticed.

This is for them, the Should-Be's, artists who should be in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame but aren't ... Volume 2.

Keep these forgotten souls in mind when the Class of 2000 is inducted into the Rock Hall during its 15th annual ceremony March 6 at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York.

(In keeping with Rock Hall rules for Class of 2000 induction, this alphabetical list is limited to artists who have recorded prior to 1975.)

IRON BUTTERFLY - The group: Doug Ingle, Erik Braunn, Lee Dorman, Ron Bushy and many lineup changes since. Formed: 1967. What P&P says: Every time we hear that rock anthem, we can't help but laugh about Bart Simpson distributing lyrics to the 17-minute classic disguised as a hymn at church. Despite one of the worst drum solos ever committed to vinyl, this song helped introduce hard rock to the free world. It hasn't been the same since. What Rock Hall voters probably are thinking: Granted, it's a classic, but name any of their other songs ... we didn't think so. On a scale of 1 to 10, the probability of getting in? 4 ... let the wind pay the way. Best song: "In-a-Gadda-Da-Vida" (Atco, 1968); best album: "In-a-Gadda-Da-Vida" (1968).

MICHAEL JACKSON - What P&P says: History lesson for the voters ... before "Off the Wall" and "Thriller," the world's all-time best-selling album, the artist formerly known as the Gloved One was doing solo work outside the Jackson 5 as early as 1972. That would make him eligible, like now. So why isn't the most prominent performer of the music-video era not in yet? What Rock Hall voters probably are thinking: He's such a sure bet, there's no hurry. On a scale of 1 to 10, the probability of getting in? 10 ... like him or not, he will soon be making his acceptance speech, with Bubbles at his side. Best song: "Thriller" (Epic, 1983); best album: "Billie Jean" (1983).

TOMMY JAMES AND THE SHONDELLS - The group: James, Eddie Gray, Ronnie Rosman, Mike Vale, Pete Lucia. Formed: 1963. What P&P says: Let's see ... 32 chart hits, two No. 1s ("Hanky Panky," "Crimson and Clover"), eight Top 10 hits - most of it before James turned age 24. It wasn't groundbreaking stuff, but they inspired countless remakes. What Rock Hall voters probably are thinking: They were nothing more than an AM radio phenomenon. On a scale of 1 to 10, the probability of getting in? 4 ... they're dragglin' the line. Best song: "Crystal Blue Persuasion" (Roulette, 1969); best album: "The Best of Tommy James & The Shondells" (1969).

JAN & DEAN - The duo: Jan Berry and Dean Torrence. Formed: 1958. What P&P says: Dick Dale made the first surf-rock splash; these guys and the Beach Boys capitalized on it. In the process, they kept rock alive amid the milquetoast early '60s, until the British Invasion came along. What Rock Hall voters probably are thinking: They were a poor man's Beach Boys, but there's no denying they had an impact. On a scale of 1 to 10, the probability of getting in? 6 ... they will have to wait for early-influence status. Best song: "Dead Man's Curve" (Liberty, 1964); best album: "Drag City" (1964).

GEORGE JONES - What P&P says: No one has had more country chart hits (at last count, it was more than 150) than the "Rolls Royce of Country Singers." Try as they might, artists today can't come close to duplicating his distinctive voice. What Rock Hall voters probably are thinking: A certain early-influence inductee ... eventually. On a scale of 1 to 10, the probability of getting in? 8 ... white lightning will strike again. Best song: "He Stopped Loving Her Today" (Epic, 1980); best album: "I Am What I Am" (1981).

LYNYRD SKYNYRD - The group: Ronnie Van Zant, Gary Rossington, Allen Collins and an ever-changing lineup (Van Zant and Steve Gaines were among six passengers killed in a 1977 plane crash). Formed: 1970. What P&P says: Junior high gym teacher Leonard Skinner would be proud. The quintessential Southern-rock band is responsible for one of rock's most enduring hits ("Free Bird") and a slew of classic-rock staples. What Rock Hall voters probably are thinking: The South's gonna do it again. On a scale of 1 to 10, the probability of getting in? 8 ... you got that right. Best song: "Sweet Home Alabama" (MCA, 1974); best album: "Gold & Platinum" (1979).

THE MONKEES - The group: Micky Dolenz, Davy Jones, Michael Nesmith, Peter Tork. Hired, er, formed: 1965. What P&P says: Forget about the TV show; listen to the music. Quality pop songs all around. What Rock Hall voters probably are thinking: Inducting them would open a veritable Pandora's box; we'd have to consider the Partridge Family, the Archies, Brady Bunch, Josie & the Pussycats, the Banana Splits, the New Monkees. Yes, maybe even the Spice Girls. No matter what Michael Stipe says, we're not letting them in. Ever. On a scale of 1 to 10, the probability of getting in? 3 ... c'mon, listen to the band. Best song: "Last Train to Clarksville" (Colgems, 1966); best album: "Then & Now - The Best of the Monkees" (Arista, 1986).

THE MOODY BLUES - The group: Denny Laine, Ray Thomas, Mike Pinder, Clint Warwick, Graeme Edge (Justin Heyward and John Lodge joined in 1966). Formed: 1964. What P&P says: Critics call it pomp rock, something that has long outlived its usefulness. Much of it is breath-taking symphonic rock that stretched pop's boundaries. Give 'em credit. What Rock Hall voters probably are thinking: They can keep on looking for days of future passed, because they're not getting in. Go now! On a scale of 1 to 10, the probability of getting in? 3 ... only in their wildest dreams. Best song: "Nights in White Satin" (Deram, 1968); best album: "This Is The Moody Blues" (Threshold, 1974).

WILLIE NELSON - What P&P says: His songwriting credits alone warrant consideration; he wrote "Crazy" (Patsy Cline), "Hello Walls" (Faron Young) and "Pretty Paper" (Roy Orbison), among others. His solo career was going nowhere until 1975, when at age 42, he pioneered the outlaw-country movement with his hit crossover album "Red Headed Stranger." Twelve platinum albums, 10 gold albums and several more later, he's still bucking Nashville trends. Thank God. Oh, and another thing, he spearheaded Farm Aid. What Rock Hall voters probably are thinking: He is, indeed, in a class by himself; we'll reserve a spot for him. On a scale of 1 to 10, the probability of getting in? 9 ... get those bandanas ready for display in Cleveland. Best song: "Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain" (Columbia, 1975); best album: "Red Headed Stranger" (1975).

THE O'JAYS - The group: Eddie Levert, Walter Williams, William Powell (originally a quintet; became a trio in 1971; Powell retired in 1975, replaced by Sammy Strain; Nathaniel Best took Strain's place in 1993). Formed: 1961. What P&P says: The trio really took off in 1972 after hooking up with producers Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff. Together, they conceived Philly soul, the definitive R&B sound of the '70s. What Rock Hall voters probably are thinking: I really have no explanation for why they're not in. Maybe in a few years. On a scale of 1 to 10, the probability of getting in? 5 ... give the people what they want. Best song: "Back Stabbers" (Philadelphia International, 1972); best album: "Back Stabbers" (1972).

GENE PITNEY - What P&P says: He wrote "Hello Mary Lou" and "He's a Rebel" (and can be forgiven for "Rubber Ball"), but because he broke out in 1961 he was unfairly lumped in with contemporaries Bobby Vinton, Bobby Vee and Steve Lawrence, when in fact he had more in common with Roy Orbison. He's particularly revered in Great Britain, where he enjoyed a revival in 1989, thanks to Marc Almond's cover of "Something's Gotten Hold of My Heart." What Rock Hall voters probably are thinking: He doesn't immediately come to mind when you think of legends. On a scale of 1 to 10, the probability of getting in? 4 ... but he's gonna be strong. Best song: "Town Without Pity" (Musicor, 1961); best album: "Greatest Hits of All Times" (1966).

QUEEN - The group: Freddie Mercury, Brian May, John Deacon, Roger Taylor. Formed: 1972. What P&P says: They are so worthy on many levels - for Mercury's flamboyant, rock operatic writing and singing styles, for May's superior guitar work, for Roy Thomas Baker's lavish productions, for the band's knack for pushing the envelope creatively. And, in their prime, did anyone put on a better show? They should have been inducted two or three years ago. What Rock Hall voters probably are thinking: We have no excuse; hand me a dunce cap and I'll go sit in a corner. On a scale of 1 to 10, the probability of getting in? 9 ... they are the champions! Best song: "Bohemian Rhapsody" (Elektra, 1975); best album: "Classic Queen" (Hollywood, 1992).

PAUL REVERE AND THE RAIDERS - The group: Paul Revere, Mark Lindsay and several others over the years. Formed: 1960. What P&P says: Because they dressed in Revolutionary War garb, they weren't taken seriously. Too bad, because outside their obvious teen appeal, they dared to be different with hits such as "Kicks," "Hungry," "Him or Me - What's It Gonna Be?" and "Indian Reservation." What Rock Hall voters probably are thinking: We'll get to them right after the Monkees. On a scale of 1 to 10, the probability of getting in? 3 ... they've lost the war. Best song: "Kicks" (Columbia, 1966); best album: "All-Time Greatest Hits" (1972).

THE RIGHTEOUS BROTHERS - The duo: Bill Medley and Bobby Hatfield. Formed: 1962. What P&P says: Medley's rich bass and Hatfield's high tenor were an unbeatable combination, and coupled with über-producer Phil Spector, they were tailor-made for radio. So why the stiff arm? What Rock Hall voters probably are thinking: Spector was the man, and he's already in. On a scale of 1 to 10, the probability of getting in? 4 ... souled out. Best song: "You've Lost That Lovin' Feelin' " (Philles, 1964); best album: "Anthology (1962-1974)" (Rhino, 1990).

RUFUS AND/OR/FEATURING CHAKA KHAN - The group: Khan, Andre Fischer, Kevin Murphy, Tony Maiden, Nate Morgan, Bobby Watson. Formed: 1973. What P&P says: First off, don't neglect the band that made Khan famous; they were a tight outfit. Secondly, she has a nearly peerless voice. What Rock Hall voters probably are thinking: She has a decent shot; she's highly regarded. On a scale of 1 to 10, the probability of getting in? 6 ... we feel for you. Best song: "I Feel For You" (Warner, 1984); best album: "Ask Rufus" (ABC, 1977).

TODD RUNDGREN - What P&P says: The wizard/true star has done it all - singing, writing, multiple instruments, producing, multimedia. To power-pop followers, he's a god. What Rock Hall voters probably are thinking: He may get non-performer consideration. On a scale of 1 to 10, the probability of getting in? 4 ... he may not see the light. Best song: "Hello It's Me" (Bearsville, 1973); best album: "Something/Anything?" (1972).

FRANK SINATRA - What P&P says: Anyone who says Ol' Blue Eyes didn't have an impact on rock/pop music is dead wrong. He taught generations how to interpret songs. Arguably the greatest pop singer of the 20th century, Sinatra is second only to Elvis Presley with the most chart albums in the rock era; he had 70 from 1955 to 1995. Shame on you, voters, for not inviting him to the party. What Rock Hall voters probably are thinking: Early-influence status is just around the corner. On a scale of 1 to 10, the probability of getting in? 9 ... he did it his way. Best song: "Theme From New York, New York" (Reprise, 1980); best album: "The Reprise Collection" (1990).

SPINNERS - The group: Many personnel changes; core lineup in 1972, when the big hits started to flow, included Phillippe Wynne, Bobbie Smith, Billy Henderson, Henry Fambrough, Pervis Jackson. Formed: 1961. What P&P says: There's a lot to be said for a vocal group, known for intricate harmonies, lasting four decades. When songwriter-producer Thom Bell took them under his wing in 1972, he helped turn them into the pick of the '70s soul litter. What Rock Hall voters probably are thinking: We're working our way back to you; be patient. On a scale of 1 to 10, the probability of getting in? 5 ... they're one of a kind. Best song: "I'll Be Around" (Atlantic, 1972); best album: "Pick of the Litter" (1975).

STEELY DAN - The group: Donald Fagen, Walter Becker and a host of studio musicians. Formed: 1972. What P&P says: These studio perfectionists cornered the market on literate, witty lyrics and a unique blending of rock, pop and jazz in the 1970s. Any major dude will tell you. What Rock Hall voters probably are thinking: If I can vote for Fleetwood Mac, I can vote for them. They're very cool. On a scale of 1 to 10, the probability of getting in? 7 ... begin the countdown to ecstasy. Best song: "Do It Again" (ABC, 1972); best album: "Can't Buy a Thrill" (1972).

T. REX - The group: Marc Bolan and Micky Finn (Steve Currie and Bill Legend joined in 1972). Formed: 1967. What P&P says: They led the glam-rock wave of the early 1970s, unwittingly spawning copycats ever since (hint: The London Suede). What Rock Hall voters probably are thinking: Their reign was brief, and their later output, up until Bolan's death in 1977, was below par, but they were notable footnotes in rock history. On a scale of 1 to 10, the probability of getting in? 5 ... rock on. Best song: "Bang a Gong (Get It On)" (Reprise, 1972); best album: "Electric Warrior" (1972).

WAR - The group: Lonnie Jordan, Howard Scott, Charles Miller, Morris "B.B." Dickerson, Harold Brown, Thomas "Papa Dee" Allen, Lee Oskar and many new faces along the way. Formed: 1969. What P&P says: They initially were Eric Burdon's backup band, but they really came into their own, fusing funk, rock, Latin and jazz styles like no other. Rap and hip-hop bands today regularly pay homage to them, and rightfully so. What Rock Hall voters probably are thinking: They're on my wish list, I swear. On a scale of 1 to 10, the probability of getting in? 8 ... deliver the word. Best song: "Low Rider" (United Artists, 1975); best album: "The World Is a Ghetto" (1972).

BARRY WHITE - What P&P says: There's no mistaking that deep, husky voice and lush arrangements. He also was a pioneering disco producer. They just don't make 'em like "Never, Never Gonna Give Ya Up" and "Can't Get Enough of Your Love, Babe" anymore. What Rock Hall voters probably are thinking: No one used the word "baby" more than White, but we won't hold that against him. He's crazysexycool. On a scale of 1 to 10, the probability of getting in? 7 ... he has the staying power. Best song: "Can't Get Enough of Your Love, Babe" (20th Century, 1974); best album: "The Icon Is Love" (A&M, 1994).

TAMMY WYNETTE - What P&P says: She was a great American success story, a simple beautician from Birmingham, Ala., who was transformed into "the First Lady of Country Music." She had 20 No. 1s and 39 Top 10 country hits, and before it was all over, she won a legion of new followers in 1992 when The KLF enlisted her for "Justified & Ancient." What Rock Hall voters probably are thinking: Umm, first we have to rectify this miscarriage of justice regarding Patsy Cline. On a scale of 1 to 10, the probability of getting in? 7 ... she's a honky tonk angel. Best song: "Stand By Your Man" (Epic, 1968); best album: "Tammy's Greatest Hits" (1969).

OTHER ELIGIBLES TO CONSIDER: Joe Cocker, Leonard Cohen, Judy Collins, Jim Croce, The Crystals, Dick Dale, Spencer Davis Group, Dr. John, The Doobie Brothers, Roberta Flack, Free, Lesley Gore, Iggy & the Stooges, Isaac Hayes, Jethro Tull, Johnnie Johnson, Quincy Jones, Casey Kasem, Kingston Trio, Kool & The Gang, Kris Kristofferson, Love, MC5, Roger Miller, The Steve Miller Band, Moby Grape, Nilsson, Peter, Paul & Mary, Johnny Rivers, Linda Ronstadt, Roxy Music, Mitch Ryder & the Detroit Wheels, Carly Simon, Paul Simon, Sonny & Cher, Steppenwolf, Barbra Streisand, Three Dog Night, Conway Twitty, Mary Wells, Bill Withers, Bobby Womack, The Zombies.

OUTSIDE LOOKING IN (a Top 10 list of the artists with the most hits who are NOT in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, according to Billboard statistics): 1, Michael Jackson; 2, Pat Boone; 3, Madonna; 4, Neil Diamond; 5, Chicago; 6, Prince; 7, Connie Francis; 8, Frank Sinatra; 9, Paul Anka; 10, Dionne Warwick.

FUTURE INDUCTEES (you can bank on them getting in as soon as they're eligible): AC/DC, Beastie Boys, Blondie, The Cars, Cheap Trick, The Clash, Elvis Costello & The Attractions, Depeche Mode, Devo, Peter Gabriel, Grand Master Flash & The Furious Five, Kiss, Madonna, John Mellencamp, Metallica, Nine Inch Nails, Nirvana, Pearl Jam, The Police, The Pretenders, Prince, Radiohead, Rage Against the Machine, Ramones, R.E.M., Run-D.M.C., The Sex Pistols, Patti Smith, Soundgarden, Donna Summer, Talking Heads, U2, Van Halen, Stevie Ray Vaughan.