The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is preparing for its 40th annual induction ceremony, scheduled for Saturday, November 8, 2025, at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. This year's class features a remarkably diverse group of artists, reflecting an ongoing expansion of what 'rock and roll' represents in popular music. From hip-hop trailblazers OutKast to pop icon Cyndi Lauper, the inductees span multiple genres and eras, promising a night of significant musical celebration.
Key Takeaways
- The 2025 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will take place on November 8, 2025, in Los Angeles.
- Inductees include Bad Company, Chubby Checker, Joe Cocker, Cyndi Lauper, OutKast, Soundgarden, and The White Stripes.
- The ceremony will stream live on Disney+ and a special will air on ABC in January 2026.
- This year's class highlights the Hall's commitment to genre diversity, embracing hip-hop, pop, and alternative alongside classic rock.
- Notable presenters and performers include Elton John, Doja Cat, Olivia Rodrigo, and Missy Elliott.
The 2025 Inductee Class
This year's performer category includes a compelling mix of artists who have left a lasting impact on music. The inductees are Bad Company, Chubby Checker, Joe Cocker, Cyndi Lauper, OutKast, Soundgarden, and The White Stripes. This selection showcases a broad spectrum of musical styles, ranging from classic rock to contemporary hip-hop.
OutKast's induction is particularly significant, bringing a crucial Southern rap legacy into the Hall. Soundgarden and The White Stripes represent the raw energy of alternative rock, while Cyndi Lauper's recognition solidifies her place as an innovator in pop music. Bad Company's inclusion finally acknowledges their role in shaping arena rock.
Fast Fact
The 2025 ceremony marks the 40th anniversary of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony.
Additional Honors
Beyond the performer category, several other influential figures will receive awards. Salt-N-Pepa and Warren Zevon will receive the Musical Influence Award. The Musical Excellence Award goes to Thom Bell, Nicky Hopkins, and Carol Kaye. Lenny Waronker will be honored with the Ahmet Ertegun Award, which recognizes non-performers.
These additional honorees further underscore the Hall's dedication to acknowledging a wide array of talent across various musical disciplines and behind-the-scenes contributions. The inclusion of figures like Carol Kaye, a legendary session bassist, highlights the often-unseen but vital work that shapes popular music.
Viewing Information and Broadcast Details
Music fans worldwide can watch the 2025 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony live. The event will stream on Disney+ starting at 5 p.m. PST / 8 p.m. EST on November 8, 2025. This marks the second consecutive year the ceremony will be available live on Disney's streaming platforms, aiming to reach a broader and younger audience.
For those who miss the live broadcast, the ceremony will remain available for streaming on Disney+ afterward. Additionally, a primetime television special featuring exclusive performances and memorable moments will air on ABC on Thursday, January 1, 2026. This special will then be available for next-day streaming on Hulu starting January 2.
Platform Shift
The partnership with Disney+ and ABC reflects a strategic move by the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame to adapt to modern viewing habits. By making the ceremony accessible on streaming platforms, the institution connects with audiences who primarily consume media online.
Star-Studded Presenters and Dynamic Performances
The induction ceremony is renowned for its unforgettable collaborations and high-profile presenters. This year’s lineup of confirmed presenters includes Elton John, Doja Cat, Olivia Rodrigo, Questlove, Twenty One Pilots, Missy Elliott, Beck, Brandi Carlile, Iggy Pop, Flea, and David Letterman.
Recent additions to the presenter list include Chappell Roan, The Killers, Jim Carrey, Janelle Monáe, Bryan Adams, Avril Lavigne, Donald Glover, En Vogue, Nancy Wilson, Joe Perry, Jerry Cantrell (Soundgarden), Mike McCready (Pearl Jam), and rising stars like Teddy Swims and RAYE. This diverse group promises engaging introductions and tributes.
"The Hall of Fame ceremony has become known for its unforgettable collaborations, and 2025's lineup seems built for viral moments."
Cross-genre performances are a highlight of the event. Twenty One Pilots has already confirmed they will perform "Seven Nation Army" as a tribute to The White Stripes. Viewers can anticipate other unexpected pairings, possibly featuring Doja Cat honoring Cyndi Lauper or Olivia Rodrigo collaborating with Salt-N-Pepa. These unique musical moments bridge generations and genres.
The Evolving Definition of Rock and Roll
The 2025 class signifies a continued evolution in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame's definition of its namesake genre. The selection clearly demonstrates that rock and roll is not confined to traditional guitar-driven music. It encompasses a broader spirit of rebellion, innovation, and cultural impact across various musical styles.
OutKast's induction is a pivotal moment for recognizing hip-hop's integral place in the rock conversation. Similarly, the acknowledgment of figures like Carol Kaye and Thom Bell sheds light on the crucial, often uncredited, contributions of session musicians and producers who shaped modern pop and soul music.
- Genre Expansion: The Hall continues to broaden its scope beyond traditional rock, embracing hip-hop, R&B, and pop.
- Cultural Relevance: The Disney+ partnership ensures the ceremony reaches contemporary audiences, aligning with modern music consumption habits.
- Celebrating Innovation: This year’s inductees highlight artists who consistently broke barriers and redefined musical norms.
By embracing streaming platforms and a diverse class of inductees, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is actively working to remain relevant and connect with new generations of music lovers. This approach reinforces the idea that rock and roll is a dynamic, ever-changing force in popular culture, continually reinventing itself while honoring its rich history.
The 2025 ceremony is poised to be a vibrant celebration of music's power to transcend boundaries and inspire across decades. It reflects a forward-thinking institution that understands its legacy is best preserved by acknowledging the full spectrum of musical innovation.