Here are the highlights, low points, and head-scratchers from the marathon evening.
LOW: George Michael’s fans disappointed by Adam Levine
The long-awaited induction of the late George Michael, who won this year’s fan vote, promised to be an emotional moment of the night. His former Wham! bandmate, Andrew Ridgeley, delivered a touching induction speech, describing Michael as his dearest friend. However, the choice of artists for Michael’s tribute performance puzzled many. Fans expected a gay male pop artist like Sam Smith or Adam Lambert, who were inspired by Michael, or even Sir Elton John, Michael’s former duet partner, to honor his legacy. Instead, performers like Miguel, Carrie Underwood, and Adam Levine, who notably did not wear a shirt during his performance, left fans disappointed. The absence of Michael’s iconic song, “Freedom ’90,” added to their frustration.
HIGH: Bernie Taupin’s powerful response to Jann Wenner
Before the Class of 2023 ceremony, Rock Hall co-founder Jann Wenner made controversial remarks about his compilation book, The Masters, stating that he didn’t include any female or Black musicians because he didn’t find them articulate enough. His comments received backlash, resulting in his removal from the Hall’s board of directors. Taupin, who was accepting the Musical Excellence Award, seized the opportunity to address the scandal. In his acceptance speech, he sarcastically acknowledged Wenner’s dismissal and praised the “profoundly articulate women and outstanding articulate Black artists” in the Class of 2023.
HIGH: Big Boi pays tribute to Kate Bush
When Big Boi introduced Kate Bush’s induction, he joked about the unlikely connection between Bush and hip-hop. However, Big Boi, an ardent fan of Bush, was the perfect person to honor her. He shared how he fell in love with Bush’s music as a middle schooler, describing her as a songwriter, producer, and performer beyond compare. In a lighthearted moment, Big Boi even teased their collaboration and urged Bush to choose a song from the three versions he had sent her.
LOW: Kate Bush’s limited representation
Although Bush’s induction into the Hall was long overdue, her absence from the ceremony was expected due to her reclusive nature. However, fans were disappointed that she was only represented with one song, “Running Up That Hill,” performed by St. Vincent. While St. Vincent delivered a stellar performance, fans felt that Bush’s body of work deserved more recognition. Many other artists, such as Maxwell, Tori Amos, and Peter Gabriel, could have paid tribute to her.
HIGH: Jimmy Page surprises with a live performance for Link Wray
While Bush may have been absent, Led Zeppelin’s Jimmy Page made a surprise appearance to honor his “hero,” Link Wray. Page’s prerecorded induction speech was followed by his live performance on the Barclays Center stage, playing the iconic riff of Wray’s signature instrumental, “Rumble.” The unexpected moment left the audience amazed and delighted.
HIGH: Sheryl Crow and Peter Frampton create a special moment
Peter Frampton joined Sheryl Crow for a lively performance of “Every Day Is a Winding Road,” accompanied by special guests Stevie Nicks and Olivia Rodrigo. Crow, in her acceptance speech, reminisced about her first rock ‘n’ roll concert experience when she saw Frampton in 1976. She expressed her gratitude for being able to share the stage with him, creating a full-circle moment in her career.
LOW: Chaka Khan’s performance encounters technical issues
Chaka Khan, a respected soul-funk artist, was expected to have a memorable performance. However, her segment was marred by technical difficulties. Common’s timing seemed off, H.E.R. had to carry most of the performance, and Sia struggled to navigate the stage due to her obstructive wig. Despite these challenges, Khan managed to deliver a spirited performance.
HIGH: New Edition’s energetic tribute to the Spinners
New Edition paid tribute to the Philadelphia vocal group, the Spinners, with a dynamic performance that included impressive choreography. Their groovy medley culminated in a disco party for “Rubberband Man,” seamlessly transitioning into the tribute for Don Cornelius, the creator/host/producer of Soul Train.
HIGH: DJ Kool Herc honored as a founder of hip-hop
DJ Kool Herc, recognized as one of the founders of hip-hop, received the Musical Influence Award. Introduced by LL Cool J, Kool Herc was visibly moved as he made his way to the stage with assistance from his sister. He expressed his gratitude and mentioned how his idol, James Brown, and Harry Belafonte had inspired him. The emotional moment resonated with the audience.
Though the induction ceremony had its ups and downs, it celebrated the remarkable contributions of these influential musicians and ensured their legacy in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
