Each year, music lovers look forward to seeing who joins the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The 2025 class is here, and it brings a mix of legendary bands, solo acts, and even hip-hop stars. Among the new names, one that stands out is a female: Cyndi Lauper, who is known for her unique voice and bold style, is among the seven new inductees.
This year’s group has a strong rock presence, but it also includes artists who have shaped music in many different ways. From rock classics to rap pioneers, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame for this year is star-studded.
Seven performers were selected for the 2025 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees ceremony
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In 1983, Ahmet Ertegun, the founder and chairman of Atlantic Records, established the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Since the first induction in 1986, a new group of artists has been added each year.
The 2025 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees were announced live on American Idol during a special episode called “Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Night.” Seven performers made the final list: Bad Company, Chubby Checker, Joe Cocker, Cyndi Lauper, Outkast, Soundgarden, and The White Stripes.
Some musicians were initially selected but didn’t make the final list. They include The Black Crowes, Billy Idol, Maná, and Phish, who are all first-time nominees, along with Mariah Carey, Oasis, and Joy Division/New Order, who have all been nominated before.
Cyndi Lauper’s induction is one that will always be talked about, as she remains one of the most memorable and colorful figures in pop and rock history. Lauper has won three of the four major American entertainment awards—two Grammy Awards, a Primetime Emmy Award, and a Tony Award. She was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2015.
She is not the only one with an impressive record, though. Hip hop duo Outkast has also certified sales of 20 million records between six studio albums and a compilation album, as well as six Grammy Awards. The other inductees have also stacked up major achievements throughout their career run.
Though the voting process is tough, making it into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is a major honor. Fans also had their say through the fan vote, with Phish winning the highest number of votes. However, as history shows, winning the fan vote does not always guarantee a spot among the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees.
Other performers will also receive special awards at the 2025 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
Getting into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is not easy. To qualify, an artist or band must have released their first commercial recording at least 25 years before nomination. That’s why it takes time for even famous names to become eligible.
Since the 2025 set has been announced, preparations have started for the next inductees, which will include artists who released their first recording in 2001. Artists like The Strokes, Alicia Keys, The National, The Streets, and the Yeah Yeah Yeahs are eligible for the next set.
Beyond the main performer group, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame also gives special awards. Salt-N-Pepa and Warren Zevon will receive the Musical Influence Award for their impact on the sounds of today. Thom Bell, Nicky Hopkins, and Carol Kaye will be honored for Musical Excellence. Lenny Waronker, a longtime record executive, will get the Ahmet Ertegun Award for his work behind the scenes.
The full induction ceremony will take place live on November 8 at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. Fans can watch it on Disney+, with a replay arriving on Hulu the next day. A shorter version will air on ABC at a later time.