The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame has unveiled its inductees for 2025, highlighting a mix of first-time nominees and veteran artists. This year’s selection includes iconic figures like Chubby Checker, Bad Company, and more contemporary acts like OutKast and The White Stripes.

Details of the Inductees

In total, 13 inductees were revealed:

• Performer Category: New nominees include Chubby Checker, Joe Cocker, Bad Company, and OutKast. Returning nominees are Cyndi Lauper, Soundgarden, and The White Stripes.
• Musical Influence Award: This honor goes to Salt-N-Pepa, recognized as the first female rap group to attain both gold and platinum status, and the late Warren Zevon.
• Musical Excellence Award: Awardees include the late Thom Bell, pianist Nicky Hopkins, and bassist Carol Kaye.
• Ahmet Ertegun Award: Lenny Waronker, a notable figure in the music industry, is recognized for his extensive influence, having signed artists like Prince and R.E.M.

Notable Omissions

While many celebrated artists were inducted, some high-profile nominees did not make the cut this year. Notable exclusions include Mariah Carey, Phish, Billy Idol, and Oasis.

Context and Background

Joe Cocker, famous for his performance at Woodstock, was well-supported in his nomination process, with notable endorsements highlighting his quintessential rock and roll essence. Soundgarden, featuring late frontman Chris Cornell, will enter the Hall on their third nomination attempt, joining the ranks of previously inducted grunge bands like Nirvana and Pearl Jam.

Chubby Checker, at 83, expressed his desire for recognition, citing his influential hits like “The Twist.” Cyndi Lauper remains a crucial figure in pop history, celebrated for hits such as “Time After Time.”

OutKast continues to redefine hip-hop with their boundary-pushing music, while The White Stripes gained fame in the indie rock scene with their hit “Seven Nation Army.”

Comments from Leadership

John Sykes, chairman of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, remarked, “Each of these inductees created their own sound and attitude that had a profound impact on culture and helped to change the course of Rock & Roll forever. Their music gave a voice to generations and influenced countless artists that followed in their footsteps.”

Induction Ceremony

The 2025 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony is scheduled for November 8, 2025, at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles.