Interesting post. I have vague memories of hearing Cinderella when I was growing up in the 80s (my parents only listened to classical music and I didn't get a radio of my own --and discover Top 40 music--until 1987).

I just recently reaquainted myself with Cinderella on YouTube, and listened to some live shows from last year. I found myself with a new appreciation for their blues-rock sound, and I love how Tom Keifer can just wail on vocals and then wail on guitar with equal conviction. My fave by them lately is "Long, Cold Winter."

By the way, Tom Keifer just released his first-ever solo album; there's live footage of him doing an old Cinderella song (can't remember which one offhand) on acoustic in a sort of folk-stripped down style as a duet with his wife. Then, midway through, he stands up, straps on his electric, raises his voice an octave, and brings it home. Amazing.

Maybe Jon disavows the 80s scene because so many of those bands (including Cinderella) are playing the small venue/county fair circuit now. But I'd argue that talent is either there or it isn't; playing for county fairs doesn't negate your talent (though it might negate your paycheck).