The annual Classic Rock ‘Roll Of Honour’ has taken place in London, with a star-studded ceremony honouring the achievements of those from the world of hard rock. Returning to the Roundhouse in Camden last night (11th Nov 2015), after being held Los Angeles last year, the event was attended by some of the biggest names in rock.
Arriving on the red carpet the likes of Queen guitarist Brian May, shock rocker Alice Cooper, and Led Zeppelin legend Jimmy Page rubbed shoulders with newcomers. Including We Are Harlot, who scooped up the ‘Best New Band’ prize, and rising stars Blackberry Smoke, who performed a short set to open the ceremony.
Among the big winners were AC/DC, who were named ‘Band Of The Year’, Led Zeppelin, who picked up ‘Reissue Of The Year’ for the extensive re-release of their back catalogue, and Queen who were crowned ‘Living Legends’.
Iron Maiden meanwhile, scooped up ‘Album Of The Year’ for their ‘Book Of Souls’ double album. Accepting the award on behalf of the band, singer Bruce Dickinson said: “The most important thing about all of this is that it was voted for by the fans, who are the only thing in this entire universe that actually matter, and who we actually give a f**k about.” Joining in on the revelry and clutching a bottle of Iron Maiden’s Trooper ale the singer ended his acceptance speech by quipping: “Drink a lot more of this stuff. You’ll remember nothing in the morning; I promise you!”.
The bash also saw Europe take home the ‘Comeback’ award, as well as perform at the end of the night. Speaking exclusively to Gigs And Festivals on the red carpet, singer Joey Tempest said:“This is amazing for us, for five kids from Stockholm.” He continued: “This award is a big thing for us, and to play here is a big thing.” The Swedes went on to bring the ceremony to a close in a suitably celebratory style with a rousing rendition of ‘The Final Countdown’, which saw the entire audience take to their feet.
The Classic Rock ‘Roll Of Honour’ returns in 2016 with the event taking place in Tokyo, Japan.
2015 CLASSIC ROCK AWARD WINNERS:
Best New Band – We Are Harlot
Film/DVD Of The Year – Foo Fighters’s Sonic Highways
Reissue Of The Year – Led Zeppelin
Album Of The Year – Iron Maiden The Book Of Souls
Band Of The Year – AC/DC
The Comeback – Europe
Classic Album – Alice Cooper Welcome To My Nightmare
The Showman – Noddy Holder
The Maestro – Joe Satriani
Tommy Vance Inspiration – Jimi Hendrix
The VIP – Rod MacSween
Outstanding Contribution – Nils Lofgren
Living Legends – Queen
First published on gigsandfestivals.com, 12 November 2015.