Dua Lipa and Cher opened the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony on Saturday night, performing “Believe” before giving way to a medley of classics by funk icons Kool & the Gang, rock legends Foreigner, and a powerhouse performance by the 83-year-old Dionne Warwick, who brought the house down.
This year’s inductees include: Mary J. Blige, A Tribe Called Quest, Ozzy Osbourne, Dave Matthews Band, the late Jimmy Buffett, MC5, Alexis Korner, John Mayall, Norman Whitfield, and Big Mama Thornton.
Zendaya inducted Cher. “Where do I even begin? Cher is not one person,” the actor stated. “Her name is just as legendary as her legacy.” Cher, 78, is noted as the only woman to have a No. 1 hit on the Billboard chart in each of the past seven decades. “Cher has got the goods,” Zendaya affirmed before Cher delivered an electrifying rendition of “If I Could Turn Back Time.”
In her speech, Cher expressed her gratitude, inspired by Cinderella and motivated by her mother’s teachings to always rebound after defeat. “The one thing I got from my mom is to never give up,” she shared. “I never give up. I’m talking to the women — down and out, we keep going.”
Chuck D inducted Kool & the Gang, exclaiming, “This is a long-due celebration.” The group boasts an impressive catalog, including hits like the 1980 chart-topper “Celebration” and others such as “Cherish” and “Ladies Night.” After years of eligibility since 1994, they finally received their honor.
The Roots helped Kool & the Gang with a medley of their biggest hits, led by Robert “Kool” Bell and longtime singer James “JT” Taylor, who asked the crowd to wave their cellphone lights while recognizing ten essential members of the band’s history.
Warwick graced the ceremony shortly after attending a memorial for her friend and collaborator Cissy Houston. Teyana Taylor hailed Warwick as “truly one of a kind,” while Jennifer Hudson delivered “I’ll Never Love This Way Again,” accompanied by Warwick for “Walk On By.” Warwick articulated her joy, declaring, “I am so pleased to be here,” before expressing eternal gratitude.
Sammy Hagar introduced Foreigner, acknowledging fans for their perseverance in demanding the band’s inclusion. Despite numerous chart-topping hits, Foreigner, eligible for over 20 years, recently made their mark with the Hall. Hagar praised their enduring legacy, stating, “Who deserves this more than Foreigner?” Their performance featured memorable songs, energizing the audience.
Roger Daltrey of The Who introduced Peter Frampton, stating, “It’s about bloody time!” Daltrey highlighted Frampton’s illustrious career, noting his numerous collaborations.
Frampton is celebrated for his iconic 1976 live double album “Frampton Comes Alive!” and showcased his talent alongside Keith Urban, captivating the audience with his signature sound.
Artists must have released their first commercial recording at least 25 years before they are eligible for induction, with nominees voted on by artists and industry professionals. John Sykes, president of entertainment enterprises at iHeartMedia and chairman of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Foundation, elaborated on efforts to return to the Hall’s original roots.
Celebrated actress Julia Roberts will induct the Dave Matthews Band, while Busta Rhymes is set to perform with A Tribe Called Quest.
The 2024 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony is a momentous event celebrating the legacy and musical impact of these remarkable artists. Tune in to experience their incredible performances and heartfelt tributes.