2025 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony Highlights
On Saturday night in Los Angeles, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame celebrated its class of 2025 inductees. This year’s honorees included iconic artists such as Bad Company, Soundgarden, Cyndi Lauper, the White Stripes, Warren Zevon, Chubby Checker, and Joe Cocker. While some of these legends have passed, their legacies were honored by fellow musicians and friends, ensuring their spirits and contributions to music continue to resonate.
The ceremony was streamed live on Disney+, with a primetime special set to air on ABC on January 1, followed by availability on Hulu the next day. For those who missed the live event, we’ve compiled ten of the most memorable moments from the ceremony.
Memorable Moments from the Ceremony
1. An All-Star Tribute to Sly Stone
The ceremony opened with a heartfelt tribute to the late Sly Stone, who passed away in June at the age of 82. Stevie Wonder led an ensemble of talented musicians, including Questlove, Flea, Beck, and Jennifer Hudson, as they performed some of Stone’s greatest hits, setting an uplifting tone for the evening.
2. David Letterman’s Touching Induction Speech for Warren Zevon
David Letterman delivered a poignant induction speech for Warren Zevon, recalling their friendship and the impact of Zevon’s music. Letterman brought along a guitar that Zevon had gifted him before his passing in 2003, stating, “Warren’s music is dense with historic illusion, love and sadness,” and declared Zevon as deserving of his own wing in the Hall of Fame.
3. Salt-N-Pepa’s Electrifying Performance and Advocacy
Salt-N-Pepa delivered a lively performance that had the audience dancing, but their acceptance speech focused on a serious issue: their ongoing fight for the rights to their master recordings. Cheryl “Salt” James emphasized the need for fairness in the music industry, stating, “Salt-N-Pepa have never been afraid of a fight.”
4. Toni Cornell’s Moving Soundgarden Cover
Chris Cornell’s daughter, Toni, honored her father by performing “Fell on Black Days,” accompanied by Nancy Wilson. The segment featured an all-female lineup, with Taylor Momsen and Brandi Carlile delivering powerful renditions of Soundgarden classics.
5. Jim Carrey and Taylor Momsen Reunite
A touching reunion occurred backstage between Jim Carrey and Taylor Momsen, who starred together in “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.” Momsen expressed her admiration for Carrey’s artistry and the lasting impact it had on her career.
6. Jack White’s Poem for Meg White
Jack White accepted the award on behalf of the White Stripes and recited a heartfelt poem dedicated to his bandmate and ex-wife, Meg White. The poem reflected their shared journey in music and the pride they felt in their artistic collaboration.
7. 21 Pilots Perform ‘Seven Nation Army’
Although Jack White was not present to perform, 21 Pilots paid tribute with a rendition of “Seven Nation Army,” showcasing their unique style and energy.
8. Chappell Roan’s Outfit Homage to Cyndi Lauper
In a tribute to Cyndi Lauper, pop star Chappell Roan donned a stunning newspaper dress and crystal headpiece reminiscent of Lauper’s iconic style, praising her as a true embodiment of artistic qualities.
9. Cyndi Lauper Performs With an All-Female Band
Lauper herself performed “Girls Just Want to Have Fun,” accompanied by an all-female band, which included notable artists like Gina Schock of the Go-Go’s and Avril Lavigne, adding an empowering touch to the classic anthem.
10. A Rousing Conclusion with ‘With a Little Help From My Friends’
The ceremony closed with an all-star jam of the Beatles’ “With a Little Help From My Friends,” performed in the soulful style of Joe Cocker, leaving the audience energized and celebrating the spirit of rock and roll.
Conclusion
The 2025 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony was a night filled with emotion, celebration, and powerful performances. Each inductee’s legacy was honored through heartfelt speeches and musical tributes, reminding us of the profound impact these artists have had on music and culture. The event not only celebrated the past but also sparked conversations about the future of the music industry.
FAQs
When will the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony air on TV?
The primetime special will air on ABC on January 1, followed by availability on Hulu the next day.
Who were the inductees for the 2025 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame?
The inductees included Bad Company, Soundgarden, Cyndi Lauper, the White Stripes, Warren Zevon, Chubby Checker, and Joe Cocker.
What was significant about Salt-N-Pepa’s performance?
Salt-N-Pepa not only delivered an electrifying performance but also used their platform to advocate for their rights to their master recordings, highlighting ongoing issues in the music industry.
Did any of the inductees perform at the ceremony?
Yes, Cyndi Lauper performed with an all-female band, and various artists paid tribute to the inductees through performances throughout the evening.
What was the highlight of David Letterman’s speech for Warren Zevon?
Letterman’s speech was notable for its heartfelt reflection on their friendship and the poetic nature of Zevon’s music, emphasizing his significance in rock history.
