After nearly 40 years of making parodies, and 5 Grammy Awards, "Weird" Al Yankovic has earned his place in Music History. From his first professionally recorded parody, "My Bologna," to his last album, "Mandatory Fun," the funny man with the accordion has influenced generations of music appreciators by breaking down barriers, even though he asked for permission first.

The "Dare to be Stupid" album was the first comedy record to ever come out on a compact disc (That's a CD, to anyone under 18.) He even experienced further success with his incredible music videos being played on MTV often, even using the same set from Michael Jackson's "Bad" music video, as the set for "Weird" Al's "Fat" parody. And probably the coolest thing about him, is that he always asks an artist for permission to parody their music (even though he is not legally required to) and never does anything without their consent.

Growing up, I wanted nothing more than to be accepted by my family, friends and peers. The music made from "Weird" Al's squeezebox showed many people, including myself, that it doesnt matter if anyone else accepts you, it only matters if you accept yourself.

I consider myself a Scholar of Classic Rock, which includes the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The only true requirement to be inducted is time. No one may be inducted until 25 years after their first published recording. We have been waiting longer than that. Many people criticize the thought of his entry, as though parodies are not original music. Regardless of that argument, "Weird" Al has recorded numerous original songs, ones that had virtually nothing to do with any other artist. His songs, his entity, have even outlasted several of the artists he has parodied!

"Weird" Al has secured a place in the hearts of any and every comedian, satirist, aspiring songwriter, and many more, simply by not being afraid to be who he is. "Weird" Al.