Outkast, White Stripes and Cyndi Lauper join Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
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Andre 3000 and Big Boi of Outkast. Photo: Kevin Winter/ImageDirect
Outkast, the White Stripes, Cyndi Lauper and Soundgarden are part of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame's class of 2025.
- They're joined by Bad Company, Chubby Checker and Joe Cocker, who will all be inducted on Nov. 8 at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles.
Why it matters: 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.
Driving the news: Host Ryan Seacrest announced this year's class during Sunday's episode of ABC's "American Idol."
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," said John Sykes, chairman of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, in a statement.
- "Their music gave a voice to generations and influenced countless artists that followed in their footsteps."
Between the lines: Besides the main inductees, rap group Salt-N-Pepa and the late singer-songwriter Warren Zevon will each receive the Rock Hall's Musical Influence Award.
- Producer Thom Bell, English pianist Nicky Hopkins and prolific bassist Carol Kaye are this year's Musical Excellence Award recipients.
- Record executive Lenny Waronker will receive the Ahmet Ertegun Award for lifetime achievement.
The other side: Among the nominees that didn't make the cut is Fan Vote winner Phish.
- The jam band is the second act — along with Dave Matthews Band in 2020 — to win the annual poll and not earn induction. DMB was finally inducted in 2024.
- Other nominees who missed out were Mariah Carey, Oasis, Joy Division/New Order, Billy Idol, the Black Crowes and Mexican rock band Maná.
💭 My thought bubble: Carey and Idol's omissions are surprising. As is the lack of women among the main inductees.
- Still, potential reunions of Outkast, the White Stripes and Bad Company should put butts in seats and viewers in front of their televisions.
What's next: The Rock Hall will announce special guests, presenters and ticket information in the coming months.
Go deeper: Top 25 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame snubs of all time