The hallowed halls of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame welcomed a vibrant and diverse new cohort with the induction of the Rock Hall Class 2025. The prestigious ceremony, held on November 8, 2025, at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, celebrated artists whose innovations, influence, and artistry have indelibly shaped the landscape of popular music. Leading the charge were seminal acts Salt-N-Pepa, Outkast, Cyndi Lauper, and The White Stripes, each representing distinct genres and eras that underscore the evolving definition of rock and roll, truly a monumental Rock Hall Class 2025.
A Pantheon of Performers Takes the Spotlight for the Rock Hall Class 2025
The Performer category, the most prominent honor, saw the induction of legendary groups and artists whose music has achieved global recognition and critical acclaim. Among them, hip-hop pioneers Salt-N-Pepa were inducted under the Musical Influence Award, a testament to their groundbreaking status as the first all-female rap group to achieve platinum status and win a Grammy. Comprised of Cheryl “Salt” James, Sandra “Pepa” Denton, and Deidra “DJ Spinderella” Roper, the trio redefined women’s roles in hip-hop with hits like “Push It,” “Shoop,” and “Whatta Man,” blending infectious beats with empowering messages. Their induction performance, featuring guest appearances, was a highlight, and the group notably spoke out about their ongoing fight to reclaim their master recordings, drawing attention to artist rights, a key moment for the Rock Hall Class 2025.
Southern hip-hop titans Outkast, the dynamic duo of André 3000 and Big Boi, were also honored for their profound impact on the genre. Hailing from Atlanta, Outkast consistently pushed boundaries, blending funk, soul, jazz, and rock into their unique “Dirty South” sound. Their innovative approach, evident in genre-bending albums like “Stankonia” and the Grammy-winning “Speakerboxxx/The Love Below,” redefined hip-hop and influenced countless artists, solidifying their place as one of the most critical and commercially successful duos in music history, making them a vital part of the Rock Hall Class 2025.
Cyndi Lauper, an enduring icon of pop and rock music, was celebrated for her four-octave voice, distinctive style, and unwavering activism. Inducted by fellow artist Chappell Roan, Lauper’s debut album “She’s So Unusual” produced multiple top hits, including “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” and “True Colors,” songs that have become anthems of self-expression and empowerment, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community. Her influence spans generations, inspiring artists from Lady Gaga to Roan herself, a significant inclusion for the Rock Hall Class 2025.
Detroit’s own The White Stripes, the dynamic duo of Jack and Meg White, were recognized for their pivotal role in the garage rock revival of the early 2000s. With a raw, primal sound rooted in blues and punk, their six studio albums, including critically acclaimed “White Blood Cells” and “Elephant,” captivated audiences and redefined contemporary rock music. Their distinctive musical identity and commitment to artistic authenticity have left an indelible mark on the genre, a fitting addition to the Rock Hall Class 2025.
Other notable performers inducted included the British arena rock band Bad Company, the rock and roll originator Chubby Checker, the soulful British singer Joe Cocker, and the influential grunge band Soundgarden.
Recognizing Broader Musical Influence and Excellence for the Rock Hall Class 2025
Beyond the Performer category, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame also honored artists for their broader impact on music. Hip-hop pioneers Salt-N-Pepa received the Musical Influence Award, a category also bestowed upon the iconic singer-songwriter Warren Zevon, celebrated for his distinctive lyrical and musical contributions. The Rock Hall Class 2025 showcases a wide spectrum of talent.
Further acknowledging the diverse talents that shape music, the Musical Excellence Award was presented to Carol Kaye, Nicky Hopkins, and Thom Bell, recognizing their significant contributions as session musicians, pianists, and producers. The Ahmet Ertegun Award, celebrating non-performers who have had a significant impact on the music industry, was given to Lenny Waronker.
A Star-Studded Ceremony in Los Angeles for the Rock Hall Class 2025
The 40th annual induction ceremony, held at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, was a night of unforgettable performances and heartfelt tributes. The event, which also streamed live on Disney+ and later aired on ABC, brought together a constellation of music stars, both as presenters and performers. Tributes to departed legends like Sly Stone and Brian Wilson, along with electrifying sets from the inductees and guest artists, underscored the unifying power of music. This celebration highlighted the importance of the Rock Hall Class 2025.
The Class of 2025 represents a significant moment for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, acknowledging the expanding definition of rock and roll and celebrating the artists who have influenced youth culture and redefined genres. Their inductions serve as a powerful reminder of the enduring legacy and ever-evolving spirit of music, a defining moment for the Rock Hall Class 2025.
