Hip-Hop pioneers Afrika Bambaataa and the Beastie Boys have been nominated for induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. In order to be eligible for a nomination this year, artists must have released a first single or LP in 1982 or earlier. Bambaataa, considered one of the forefathers of the Hip-Hop genre, played an integral role in the artform’s early days in the Bronx. A groundbreaking DJ and producer, Bam founded the Universal Zulu Nation and layed the groundwork for what would become the dominant musical culture of the late 20th century. The Beasties, one of the first acts on Def Jam Records under founders Russell Simmons and Rick Rubin, actually made their musical debut as a punk rock group by the name of Young Aborigines. After linking up with Rubin and Simmons, they recreated themselves as a hard partying trio of rebellious white MCs. Today they are recognized worldwide for their social activism and commitment to human rights causes. Nine artists are being considered for induction into the Hall of Fame this year, however, only 5 will make the final cut. The induction ceremony will be held on March 10 at the Waldorf-Astoria in New York City. Earlier this year, Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five became the first Hip-Hop act to be recognized by the Hall.