The 2025 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony is set to light up Los Angeles this Saturday, November 8, as a slew of iconic artists make their grand entrance into the famed Cleveland-based institution. The illustrious lineup of inductees includes Soundgarden, OutKast, the White Stripes, Cher, and Cyndi Lauper, whose contributions to music have left an indelible mark. With the clock ticking down to the big event, organizers have pulled back the curtain to reveal a star-studded roster of presenters and performers. Among those set to grace the stage are music and entertainment heavyweights such as Chappell Roan, David Letterman, Olivia Rodrigo, Doja Cat, Donald Glover, the Killers, Elton John, Jim Carrey, Missy Elliott, and many more, promising electrifying performances and touching tributes.
One of the many highlights of the evening will be the induction of pop icon Cyndi Lauper, who will be ushered into the Hall by Roan. Lauper's induction will be celebrated with a performance alongside Avril Lavigne, marking a celebration of her dynamic music career. Meanwhile, Soundgarden's entry into the Rock Hall will be commemorated by a memorable supergroup performance featuring Seattle stalwarts like Heart’s Nancy Wilson, Pearl Jam’s Mike McCready, Alice in Chains’ Jerry Cantrell, and Taylor Momsen from the Pretty Reckless. As Soundgarden’s drummer Matt Cameron explained to the Seattle Times, "We wanted to keep it as Seattle-centric as possible and include some people that were there with us in the beginning."
Even as Twenty One Pilots prepare for their tribute to the White Stripes, fans may be disappointed to learn that the duo will not reunite for the occasion, with Meg White not expected to attend. Meanwhile, rock legends Bad Company, despite being among the honorees, won't perform due to singer Paul Rodgers' health concerns, though drummer Simon Kirke will still take to the stage.
Actor and musician Donald Glover will be on hand to induct legendary hip-hop duo OutKast, with Janelle Monáe and Killer Mike lending their talents to this highly anticipated segment. Talk show icon David Letterman is expected to deliver a poignant homage to his late friend, singer-songwriter Warren Zevon, who will be posthumously honored with the Musical Influence Award. This accolade will also grace the iconic group Salt-N-Pepa.
This year's ceremony will also see Chubby Checker and Joe Cocker entering the Rock Hall, while the Musical Excellence Awards will recognize the immense contributions of keyboardist Nicky Hopkins, Wrecking Crew bassist Carol Kaye—who has opted out of attending—and songwriter-producer Thom Bell. Furthermore, music executive Lenny Waronker will receive the prestigious Ahmet Ertegun Award.
Adding to the excitement, a diverse array of artists and luminaries will be participating in various capacities during the evening, including Bryan Adams, En Vogue, Feist, Flea, Iggy Pop, Questlove, Nathaniel Rateliff, Tedeschi Trucks Band, Mick Fleetwood, Lisa Coleman, Gina Schock of the Go-Go’s, and Joe Perry.
Reflecting on the significance of the ceremony, John Sykes, chairman of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Foundation, stated, "Each year the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony brings together the most influential artists in music today to honor their heroes who have inspired their music and careers. These artists come from around the world to create lifetime musical moments that will live on forever."
As anticipation builds for what promises to be an evening of epic performances and heartfelt tributes, the 2025 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony is poised to be an unforgettable celebration of musical greatness.