It was a beautiful, joyous, emotional Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony for its class of 2025. They paid tribute to some of music history’s most iconic pioneers. One of these inductees was the legendary hip-hop duo Outkast, who were hailed and lauded for their innovative contributions to one of America’s favorite genres. Fellow creative powerhouse and multitalented mogul Donald Glover bounded onstage with a childlike glee. He introduced the duo and told them how much their work has inspired and shaped his own artistry.
Glover credited Outkast with teaching him that “you don’t have to scream, you don’t have to yell. You just have to be undeniable.” This feeling was palpable across the stage during the ceremony, emphasizing the ongoing impact André 3000 and Big Boi have had on modern music.
A visibly emotional André 3000 fought back tears in his acceptance speech as the reality of Outkast’s rise and success set in. It’s their creative vision and influence on hip-hop that has forever changed the culture. This impressive milestone sets their induction up as a potentially historic moment during the ceremony.
Outkast was far from the only iconic act celebrated in the 2025 class. Joining them in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame were a number of other legendary artists. Apart from the Broadway legends, 80’s pop star Cyndi Lauper—with coveted EGOT status herself—took home the top honor right on cue. Her contributions to music and culture made her a treasured hero in the industry and beyond.
Earlier this year, Soundgarden was the first to receive a posthumous honor, as an inductee. Members Kim Thayil, Matt Cameron, Ben Shepherd, and Hiro Yamamoto received the award on behalf of their late frontman Chris Cornell, who tragically died in 2017. The band’s legacy is still felt today and continues to inspire artists. We’re thrilled by their induction because it acknowledges once and for all their monumental influence on rock music.
This year’s rock inductees — The White Stripes and Bad Company. Their addition shines a spotlight on the myriad of talent honored at the historic gala. Thom Bell, Nicky Hopkins, and Carol Kaye were made honorary members for their Musical Excellence. At the same time, Lenny Waronker received the Ahmet Ertegun Award, honoring his deep impact on the music industry.
Save the date! The highlights from the 2025 Rock Hall induction ceremony will be broadcasted on ABC starting January 1. Now fans can experience all the emotional highlights and relive the unforgettable accomplishments of these legendary artists!
