Rolling Stones Vs. The Animals – Ultimate Classic Rock Hall of Fame Round One

Two English bands that were among the earliest pioneers of classic rock -- the Animals and the Rolling Stones -- are matched up against each other in the first round of our inaugural Ultimate Classic Rock Hall of Fame election. 

Each month, your votes will determine which of eight legendary artists or bands is immortalized forever for their contributions to classic rock history. The Animals were one of the most important bands of the British Invasion, incorporating a heavy dose of R&B into their sound on hits like 'House of the Rising Sun,' 'We've Gotta Get Out of This Place' and 'Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood.'

They've got their work cut out for them if they want to move on to our second round, however, because for over 50 years now their competition, the Rolling Stones, have earned and by most accounts successfully defended the title of "World's Greatest Rock and Roll Band." If you need some reasons to justify this claim, we've got 100 right here.

Why Isn't My Favorite Band Nominated for the Hall of Fame?

Only one of these two legendary bands can make it past the opening round of this month's Hall of Fame election. So who gets to advance? That's entirely your call. You can vote once a day from now until 11:59 PM ET on Sunday, March 17 in each of the four first round battles. The first entrant into the Ultimate Classic Rock Hall of Fame will be revealed on April 1, 2013. Be sure to read the official Hall of Fame rules right here.