Outkast to join Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
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Outkast perform at One MusicFest in 2016. Photo: Prince Williams/WireImage/Getty Images
Outkast, the rap duo that played a major role in making Atlanta the hip-hop capital of the South, will be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
Why it matters: André 3000 and Big Boi's rise in popularity forced the industry, which had been dominated by East and West Coast players, to pay attention to what the South had to say.
Driving the news: Atlanta native Ryan Seacrest announced this year's class, which includes The White Stripes, Cyndi Lauper and Soundgarden, during Sunday's episode of ABC's "American Idol."
Zoom out: The Rock Hall continues to lean into a diverse array of genres with its inductions, which has led to record viewership for the annual ceremony.
- Outkast was the only hip-hop group representing the genre in this year's hall of fame voting.
What they're saying: "Each of these inductees created their own sound and attitude that had a profound impact on culture and helped to change the course of Rock & Roll forever," John Sykes, chairman of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, said in a statement.
- "Their music gave a voice to generations and influenced countless artists that followed in their footsteps.
Yes, and: Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens told Axios in a statement that he was proud of Outkast's recognition, "both personally and for the cultural contributions they have made to further Atlanta's presence on the global stage."
- "In 1995, they reminded the world that the 'South got something to say' —lyrics and beats that resonated beyond zip codes and modern verses that inspired and spoke for communities often without a voice," he said.
How it works: Artists or bands become eligible for nomination 25 years after their first commercial recording is released.
- Outkast is a first-time nominee, while Soundgarden, The White Stripes and Cyndi Lauper have all been nominated previously, Rock Hall said.
Catch up quick: Fans this year could choose up to seven nominees each day through the nomination period that ended April 21.
Fun fact: Atlanta-based rock group The Black Crowes were also nominated this year, but joined bands like Phish and Oasis in not making the final seven.
Yes, and: English rock band Bad Company, another member of this year's crop of inductees, wrote a love song to the city called "Oh, Atlanta."
The intrigue: A potential reunion of Outkast should put butts in seats and draw viewers to their televisions.
What's next: The class will be inducted on Nov. 8 at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles.
- The Rock Hall will announce special guests, presenters and ticket information in the coming months.