Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Welcomes Chubby Checker, Joe Cocker, Bad Company, and More in 2025

This year's Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction sees first-time entrants Chubby Checker, Joe Cocker, and Bad Company joining an impressive roster that includes Cyndi Lauper, OutKast, the White Stripes, and Soundgarden.

Honoring Musical Legends

Trailblazers Salt-N-Pepa, recognized as the trailblazing female rap group to achieve gold and platinum accolades, and the late Warren Zevon, a renowned singer-songwriter, will receive the Musical Influence Award. Meanwhile, Thom Bell, a legendary record producer, along with pianist Nicky Hopkins and bassist Carol Kaye, will be awarded the Musical Excellence Award posthumously.

Rock Giants and Their Journey

Joe Cocker, famous for his Woodstock performance and his heart-rending cover of The Beatles' "With a Little Help From My Friends," was championed by notable figures including Billy Joel and Billy Gibbons of ZZ Top. Soundgarden, making it in after three tries and led by the late Chris Cornell, adds to the grunge legacy already fortified by Nirvana and Pearl Jam. Bad Company makes their entry with their ever-popular tracks like "Feel Like Makin' Love" and "Rock 'n' Roll Fantasy."

The Ahmet Ertegun Award

The Ahmet Ertegun Award recognizes music industry movers not in the spotlight. This year Lenny Waronker, a former Warner Bros. Records executive who played a pivotal role in signing iconic acts such as Prince and R.E.M., joins this distinguished group. His influence extends to collaborations with Madonna, Paul Simon, and more.

Artists Not Making the Cut

Despite being nominated, artists like Mariah Carey, Phish, Billy Idol, and Oasis did not secure a spot this year.

Checker and His Iconic "Twist"

Chubby Checker's "The Twist" remains a rock 'n' roll milestone, yet Checker expressed earlier discontent at not being inducted sooner, underscoring the importance of recognition while artists are still around to appreciate it.

Innovators in Music

Cyndi Lauper captured the hearts of many in the 1980s with vibrant anthems like "Girls Just Want To Have Fun," later earning a Tony for "Kinky Boots." OutKast, consisting of André 3000 and Big Boi, have reinvigorated hip-hop with their innovative sounds and have six Grammys to show for it. The White Stripes left a lasting mark on indie rock with hits like "Seven Nation Army."

Eligibility for Induction

To be considered for induction, artists must have released their first commercial record a minimum of 25 years prior. The upcoming induction ceremony is set to occur in Los Angeles this autumn.

Selection Process and Criteria

Nominees were evaluated by over 1,200 professionals including artists and historians. The selection process assesses factors like an artist's impact, career longevity, work scope, and stylistic uniqueness.