The 2025 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame welcomed a new class of music legends at a star-studded ceremony in Los Angeles on Saturday. Held at the Peacock Theater, the event celebrated iconic musicians with live performances, speeches, and video tributes, highlighting decades of influence across genres.
Artists become eligible for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame 25 years after their first release, and this year’s inductees spanned rock, rap, and pop, showcasing both legendary acts and influential session musicians.
Outkast, the American rap duo known for hits like “Hey Ya,” “Ms. Jackson,” and “Roses,” took the stage in a medley performance featuring Big Boi, Janelle Monáe, JID, Doja Cat, Killer Mike, and Sleepy Brown. They were inducted by actor and musician Donald Glover, honoring their groundbreaking contributions to hip-hop since the 1990s.
The 1970s English rock band Bad Company, famed for “Feel Like Makin’ Love” and “Can’t Get Enough,” was inducted by Mick Fleetwood. Drummer Simon Kirke performed with Nancy Wilson of Heart, Joe Perry of Aerosmith, and Chris Robinson of the Black Crowes. Their performance celebrated classic rock’s enduring appeal.
Cyndi Lauper, whose solo career launched in the early 1980s with hits like “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” and “Time After Time,” was inducted by rising artist Chappell Roan. Lauper performed a medley of her iconic songs alongside Avril Lavigne, Raye, and Salt-N-Pepa, highlighting her pop influence across generations.
Rock band Soundgarden, formed in 1984, was recognized for songs including “Black Hole Sun” and “Outshined.” Actor Jim Carrey inducted the group. Surviving members performed with Taylor Momsen and Brandi Carlile, honoring the late vocalist Chris Cornell. Cornell’s daughter Toni also joined Nancy Wilson for a tribute performance.
The pioneering rap trio Salt-N-Pepa, known for “Push It” and “Let’s Talk About Sex,” was inducted by Missy Elliott. The group performed a medley with a special appearance by En Vogue, celebrating their role in shaping 1980s and 1990s hip-hop.
Chubby Checker, whose 1950s hits like “The Twist” remain cultural touchstones, was honored through a video tribute and accepted the induction remotely, marking a milestone in early rock and roll history.
English singer Joe Cocker, who passed away in 2014, was recognized for classics including “You Are So Beautiful.” Bryan Adams inducted him, with a medley performance featuring Teddy Swims, Tedeschi Trucks Band, Lauper, Chris Robinson, and Nathaniel Rateliff performing “With a Little Help From My Friends.”
The White Stripes, famous for “Seven Nation Army” and “We’re Going to Be Friends,” were inducted by Iggy Pop. Tribute performances were delivered by Olivia Rodrigo, Feist, and Twenty One Pilots, celebrating the duo’s impact on 1990s and 2000s rock.
Singer-songwriter Warren Zevon, who died in 2003, was inducted by David Letterman. The Killers performed in his honor, highlighting Zevon’s storytelling and rock influence since the early 1970s.
Several influential session musicians and producers were also recognized via video tributes. Carole Kaye, Nicky Hopkins, Thom Bell, and Lenny Waronker were celebrated for their work behind the scenes on landmark recordings for artists including The Beach Boys, Barbra Streisand, Prince, R.E.M., and The Beatles.
The 2025 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame ceremony offered a blend of live performances, heartfelt speeches, and tributes to musical pioneers. This year’s inductees reminded audiences of the lasting impact of rock, pop, and hip-hop legends across generations.
