The 2024 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony was a night of unforgettable performances, emotional tributes, and legendary speeches. Honoring Soundgarden, Cyndi Lauper, Outkast, Salt-N-Pepa, The White Stripes, and other icons, the event celebrated music’s power to unite generations. Here’s a look back at the biggest moments.
Star-Studded Induction Ceremony
Held at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center, the night brought together rock, hip-hop, and pop legends. From tearful tributes to high-energy performances, the inductees proved why their legacies endure.
Soundgarden’s Heartfelt Homage to Chris Cornell
The posthumous induction of Soundgarden honored the late Chris Cornell, with surviving members Kim Thayil, Matt Cameron, and Ben Shepherd accepting the accolade. Eddie Vedder’s haunting rendition of Black Hole Sun left the audience speechless.
“Chris’s voice was a force of nature—it could shake a room or break your heart in a single note.” — Eddie Vedder
Cyndi Lauper’s Inspiring Acceptance Speech
Cyndi Lauper, finally inducted after years of eligibility, delivered a powerful message about authenticity. Her performances of Time After Time and Girls Just Wanna Have Fun had the crowd roaring.
“I never fit the mold, and that’s okay. Rock & roll isn’t about fitting in—it’s about breaking out.” — Cyndi Lauper
Outkast’s Historic Induction
André 3000 and Big Boi made history as Outkast entered the Hall, showcasing hip-hop’s cultural impact. Their electrifying Hey Ya! and Ms. Jackson medley was a showstopper.
“Music is the one place where weirdos like me can be free. Thank y’all for letting us be us.” — André 3000
Salt-N-Pepa’s Trailblazing Triumph
The pioneering rap duo Salt-N-Pepa reflected on shattering industry barriers before tearing through Push It and Shoop.
“We didn’t just make music—we made a movement.” — Salt
The White Stripes’ Raw Rock Revival
Jack White paid tribute to Meg White’s revolutionary drumming, then teamed up with Dave Grohl for a blistering Seven Nation Army finale.
“Simplicity is the hardest thing to master. Meg and I just wanted to make something real.” — Jack White
Best Quotes from the Night
- “Rock & roll isn’t a genre—it’s a rebellion.” — Tom Morello
- “If our music made you dance, think, or feel something, then we did our job.” — Pepa
- “The best artists don’t follow trends—they set them.” — Big Boi
Final Takeaways
The 2024 Rock Hall induction wasn’t just about awards—it was a celebration of artists who changed music forever. Which moment was your favorite?
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