Guns N' Roses, Heart, Joan Jett & the Blackhearts and The Cure are among the first-timers on a short list of nominees for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame's class of 2011, joining noteable returning hopefuls the Red Hot Chili Peppers and Beastie Boys.

Fifteen finalists are on the ballot that's been sent to the Rock Hall's more than 500 voters, who will in turn select five to be inducted into the Hall on April 14th, when the 27th annual ceremony returns to Cleveland for the third time.

Acts are eligible at least 25 years after their first commercial recording release, meaning 1986 or before for this year's group. This marks the first year for Guns 'N Roses eligibility.

Glaring Hall of Shame omissions this year again include: Rush, Kiss, Deep Purple, Yes, Journey and Motley Crue

 ** On a related note Buckcherry have been confirmed to be opening for Guns N' Roses on the following dates:

10/28 - Orlando – Amway Center

10/29 – Miami – American Airlines Arena

10/31 – Greenville - Bi–Lo Center

11/2 – Atlanta – Philips Arena

11/4 – Houston – Toyota Center