I had no doubt that REM, Red Hot Chili Peppers, or U2 would get in the Hall. I am surprised to see REM as the first nominated from that group.
Musically I don't care about any of them (all were considered "underground" initially but have been considered mainstream acts since 1988 and yet they STILL try to play up the "indie" sound label). But for sales and lasting ability, I knew they'd all get in.
What other acts from the past 25 years (1981-now) will get first round nominations? Pearl Jam and Nirvana (as their time comes) MAYBE the Butthole Surfers. But I don't see much else modern stuff getting a nod. There are worthy acts but they won't get noted.
Soundgarden and Alice in Chains will also get nods pretty quickly. Maybe Temple of the Dog, but they are kind of limited by having only one album. Of those Soundgarden will be the first to become eligible. I wouldn't be surprised to see Rage Against the Machine in there too. They were certainly originators in the rap/metal mashup.