Darlene Love’s induction on the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame’s Class of 2011 raised a few eyebrows. While nobody questioned her vocal talent, her lack of credits as a solo artist prompted some to suggest she was included primarily due to her connections (having Bruce Springsteen in your corner can’t hurt).

Love was lead singer of The Blossoms (not in the Hall) and a background vocalist for scores of major artists, including Frank Sinatra, The Beach Boys, Elvis Presley, Tom Jones, Dionne Warwick, and Sam Cooke. I suppose it’s fair that a prolific background singer deserves recognition, but it’s a bit odd that she made it in 13 years before, say, Warwick.

Love’s first major hit was ‘He’s a Rebel,’ which she performed with The Blossoms. The song reached #1 on the Hot 100 but was credited to The Crystals at the insistence of producer Phil Spector. Spector was worried that Vikki Carr’s version of the song would come out first, and The Crystals were on tour, so he brought in a ringer.

Love did get credit for the song that has become her signature tune: ‘Christmas (Baby Please Come Home).’ The holiday pop classic wasn’t a big hit after its release but it went on to become a staple. Love performed the track on The Late Show with David Letterman every year for two decades.

Two years ago, at 81, she performed the song with Cher on the latter’s Christmas album.