The 40th annual Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony is expanding its star-studded lineup with new presenters and performers. Music fans can anticipate appearances from a diverse group of artists and celebrities, including Avril Lavigne, Bryan Adams, Donald Glover, and Jim Carrey, all set to honor the 2025 inductees.
This year's ceremony promises a significant event in music, bringing together legends and contemporary stars. The additions aim to enhance the tributes for the artists entering the Hall of Fame.
Key Takeaways
- New guests include Avril Lavigne, Bryan Adams, Donald Glover, and Jim Carrey.
- Chappell Roan and The Killers will attend the 2025 Induction Ceremony.
- Inductees for 2025 include Outkast, The White Stripes, Soundgarden, and Cyndi Lauper.
- The ceremony streams live on Disney+ on November 8, with an ABC special on January 1.
- An inductee exhibit opens in Cleveland on October 31, featuring iconic artifacts.
New Artists and Honorees Join the Celebration
The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame has announced an extensive list of new guests for its 2025 induction ceremony. These individuals will participate in various capacities, presenting awards, performing musical tributes, and honoring the careers of this year's inductees.
Among the newly added names are several prominent figures from music and entertainment. Avril Lavigne, known for her punk-pop anthems, and Canadian rock icon Bryan Adams are set to perform. Actor and musician Donald Glover (Childish Gambino) will also take the stage, alongside comedian and actor Jim Carrey, adding a unique blend of talent to the event.
Other notable additions include En Vogue, Feist, Gina Schock, Hurby Luv Bug Azor, Janelle Monáe, Jerry Cantrell, Joe Perry, Lisa Coleman, Mick Fleetwood, Mike McCready, Nancy Wilson, Nathaniel Rateliff, and Tedeschi Trucks Band. These artists represent a wide array of genres and eras, reflecting the broad influence of rock and roll.
Fast Fact
Chappell Roan, a rising pop star, will attend the 2025 ceremony despite not being eligible for induction until 2042. The Killers, another popular band, become eligible in 2028 and are also scheduled to be guests.
The Full Lineup of Inductees and Guests
The 2025 class of inductees features a powerful collection of artists spanning multiple genres and decades. Headlining the performer category are Bad Company, Chubby Checker, Joe Cocker, Cyndi Lauper, Outkast, Soundgarden, and The White Stripes. These artists have left an indelible mark on music history.
Beyond the main performers, several individuals are being recognized for their significant contributions. Salt-N-Pepa and Warren Zevon will receive the Musical Influence Award. Thom Bell, Nicky Hopkins, and Carol Kaye are honored with the Musical Excellence Award. Lenny Waronker will be presented with the Ahmet Ertegun Award, recognizing non-performing industry professionals.
"The ceremony celebrates the enduring power and diverse forms of rock and roll, acknowledging both its pioneers and its ongoing evolution."
Previously announced guests include a formidable list of presenters and performers. Beck, Brandi Carlile, David Letterman, Doja Cat, Elton John, Flea, Iggy Pop, J.I.D, Killer Mike, Maxwell, Missy Elliott, Olivia Rodrigo, Questlove, RAYE, Sleepy Brown, Taylor Momsen, Teddy Swims, and Twenty One Pilots were all confirmed earlier, creating an exciting roster for the event.
Eligibility and Criteria for Induction
What Makes an Artist Eligible?
Artists become eligible for induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame 25 years after the release of their first commercial recording. Beyond this time requirement, inductees must demonstrate unquestionable musical excellence and talent. Their work needs to have had a significant impact on the development, evolution, and preservation of rock and roll.
Where and When to Watch the Ceremony
The 40th annual Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will take place at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. For those unable to attend in person, the event offers multiple viewing options.
The ceremony will stream live coast-to-coast on Disney+ on Saturday, November 8, at 8 p.m. ET. Following the live broadcast, it will be available for streaming on demand. For television audiences, ABC will air a primetime special featuring performance highlights and standout moments on Thursday, January 1, at 8:00 p.m. ET. This special will be available for streaming on Hulu the following day.
Exclusive Exhibit in Cleveland
Fans can get a closer look at the history and artifacts of the inductees at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland. The 2025 Inductee Exhibit is scheduled to open to the public on October 31.
This exhibit will feature a collection of iconic items, offering a tangible connection to the artists' legacies. Visitors can view Cyndi Lauper’s handwritten lyrics for "Time After Time" and the distinctive outfits worn by Meg White and Jack White on the cover of The White Stripes’ album Icky Thump.
Other highlights include a 1979 Gibson Les Paul electric guitar played by Chris Cornell of Soundgarden, a testament to his powerful sound. The exhibit will also display outfits worn by members of Outkast, including the memorable ensemble Andre 3000 wore in the "Hey Ya!" music video. These artifacts provide a unique insight into the creative processes and visual aesthetics of the inducted artists.