The White Stripes, Joe Cocker, and more are also set to be inducted this year
The 2025 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees showcase a diverse array of artists who have significantly influenced the musical landscape. The induction ceremony is scheduled for November 8, 2025, at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, and will be streamed live on Disney+, with subsequent airings on ABC and Hulu. This year, high-profile rock artists being inducted include classic rock icons Bad Company and Joe Cocker, grunge godfathers Soundgarden, modern rock titans The White Stripes. Warren Zevon will receive the Music Influence Award post-humorously, along with 90s rap juggernauts Salt-N-Pepper.
Other acts set to be inducted are Cyndi Lauper, OutKast, and Chubby Checker.
Check out the full list of 2025 Inductees below.
Cyndi Lauper
Cyndi Lauper, a trailblazing pop icon, rose to fame with her 1983 debut album She’s So Unusual, featuring hits like “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” and “Time After Time.” Known for her distinctive voice and eclectic style, Lauper has earned Grammy, Emmy, and Tony Awards. Her induction into the Hall of Fame follows two previous nominations, marking a significant recognition of her contributions to music and culture.
OutKast
The Atlanta-based duo OutKast, comprising André 3000 and Big Boi, revolutionized hip-hop with their innovative sound blending funk, soul, and southern rap. Their albums Stankonia and Speakerboxxx/The Love Below produced chart-topping hits like “Ms. Jackson” and “Hey Ya!” OutKast’s induction underscores their influence on the evolution of hip-hop and popular music.
Soundgarden
Pioneers of the grunge movement, Soundgarden emerged from Seattle’s music scene in the late 1980s. Fronted by the late Chris Cornell, the band’s heavy riffs and introspective lyrics defined albums like Superunknown, featuring the Grammy-winning single “Black Hole Sun.” Their induction honors their role in shaping alternative rock .
The White Stripes
Formed by Jack and Meg White, The White Stripes brought garage rock to the mainstream in the early 2000s. Their minimalist approach and raw energy are epitomized in tracks like “Seven Nation Army,” which became an anthem across various arenas. Their influence is evident in the resurgence of rock’s popularity during that era.
Bad Company
British rock supergroup Bad Company, formed in 1973, delivered classic hits like “Feel Like Makin’ Love” and “Can’t Get Enough.” With Paul Rodgers’ powerful vocals and a blues-rock foundation, they became a staple of 1970s rock radio.Their induction recognizes their enduring legacy in rock music.
Chubby Checker
Chubby Checker, born Ernest Evans, became a cultural phenomenon with his 1960 hit “The Twist,” which sparked a global dance craze. His contributions helped bridge the gap between early rock and roll and mainstream pop culture. At 83, his induction celebrates a lifetime of influence.
Joe Cocker
Joe Cocker’s soulful interpretations of rock classics, notably his rendition of “With a Little Help from My Friends,” showcased his gritty voice and emotive delivery. His performance at Woodstock and collaborations with artists like Leon Russell solidified his status as a rock legend.
Salt-N-Pepa
As one of the first all-female rap groups, Salt-N-Pepa broke barriers with hits like “Push It” and “Shoop.” Their bold lyrics and empowering messages paved the way for future generations of female artists in hip-hop. Their Musical Influence Award acknowledges their trailblazing role in music history.
Warren Zevon
Singer-songwriter Warren Zevon is best known for his darkly humorous song “Werewolves of London.” His storytelling and unique voice earned him critical acclaim. The Musical Influence Award posthumously honors his impact on songwriting and rock music.
Thom Bell
Thom Bell, a key architect of the Philadelphia soul sound, produced and arranged hits for The Spinners and The Stylistics.His lush orchestrations and melodic sensibilities left a lasting imprint on R&B and soul music .
Nicky Hopkins
Renowned session pianist Nicky Hopkins contributed to recordings by The Rolling Stones, The Beatles, and The Who.His versatile playing enriched countless classic tracks, making him one of rock’s most sought-after collaborators .Pitchfork
Carol Kaye
As a member of the Wrecking Crew, bassist Carol Kaye played on numerous hits across genres, including tracks by The Beach Boys and Simon & Garfunkel. Her innovative bass lines have influenced generations of musicians.
Lenny Waronker
Music executive Lenny Waronker’s tenure at Warner Bros. and DreamWorks Records saw the signing and development of artists like Randy Newman and Rickie Lee Jones. His visionary leadership and production acumen have significantly shaped the music industry.
The 2025 class of Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees reflects a rich tapestry of musical innovation and cultural impact, honoring artists whose work has resonated across decades and genres.
Performers
- Cyndi Lauper
- OutKast
- Soundgarden
- The White Stripes
- Bad Company
- Chubby Checker
- Joe Cocker
Musical Influence Award
- Salt-N-Pepa
- Warren Zevon
Musical Excellence Award
- Thom Bell
- Nicky Hopkins
- Carol Kaye
Ahmet Ertegun Award (Non-Performer)
- Lenny Waronker
