The 2023 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame shindig is officially in the rearview mirror, and let me tell you, it was a night of epic performances and unforgettable highlights!
This year’s inductee squad was a motley crew of musical mavericks, covering pretty much every genre you can dream of. We’re talking about legends like Kate Bush, Sheryl Crow, Missy Elliott, George Michael, Willie Nelson, Rage Against the Machine, and the Spinners. They weren’t the only showstoppers in town because a bunch of rockstar guest presenters and performers lit up the night with their own dazzling flair.
The Rock Hall Class of 2023 was a wild mix of musical genres, and it brought together a star-studded lineup of performers and presenters who spanned hip-hop, rock, pop, R&B, and even a dash of country. I’m talking Adam Levine, Brandi Carlile, Carrie Underwood, Chris Stapleton, Common, Dave Matthews, Elton John, H.E.R., Ice-T, LL Cool J, Miguel, New Edition, Olivia Rodrigo, Queen Latifah, Sia, Stevie Nicks, and St. Vincent. It was a musical melting pot!
For the very first time, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame decided to let the world in on the action, and they live-streamed the induction ceremony. Yep, fans got to watch the magic happen in real time. The 2023 RRHOF ceremony was available for streaming on Disney+ at 8 p.m. ET, and it’s still there, ready for you to relive the glory whenever you want. If you’re more of a radio rocker, you could catch the live audio stream on Apple Music 1. No more waiting for the edited broadcast on a later date like in the old days!
And hold onto your hats, ’cause there’s another record-breaker in town. Willie Nelson, who recently celebrated his 90th birthday (yes, you read that right, 90!), became the oldest living inductee to accept the honor in person. Harry Belafonte may have had a few more candles on his birthday cake (he’s 95), but he didn’t make it to the ceremony.
Sheryl Crow Opens the Show With Olivia Rodrigo
The night kicked off with a bang, and it was none other than our fabulous inductee, Sheryl Crow, who set the stage on fire. And she didn’t come alone, oh no! She brought a trio of star-studded guests to join the party.
First up, Olivia Rodrigo, the young pop sensation who was already making her second appearance at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame (talk about a rising star!). They teamed up to rock the house with “If It Makes You Happy,” sending fans both in the audience and watching from home into fits of pure delight.
Then, enter the amazing actress Laura Dern, who shared some heartfelt words with the crowd. After that, Sheryl Crow took us on a journey with a heartwarming rendition of “Strong Enough,” and guess who joined her for this unforgettable duet? None other than the legendary Stevie Nicks! Yep, you read that right. These two powerhouse singers made magic together.
They weren’t done just yet. With the addition of the guitar maestro, Peter Frampton, they cranked up the energy for a spectacular performance of “Everyday Is a Winding Road.” It was a musical rollercoaster that had everyone on their feet and begging for more.
Miguel, Adam Levine and Carrie Underwood Pay Homage to George Michael
George Michael, a true vocal powerhouse, left an indelible mark on the music world before his untimely passing seven years ago on Christmas Day. He was that rare breed of pop star whose extraordinary voice matched his superstar status. It’s no surprise that the night’s most jaw-dropping vocal performance was dedicated to him.
The homage to George Michael was nothing short of spectacular. After a heartwarming induction by his Wham! buddy, Andrew Ridgeley, who couldn’t resist poking fun at Michael’s looks, the stage was set for a sensational tribute. First up, Miguel serenaded the audience with a rendition of “Careless Whisper,” oozing with all the sensuality of the original. Then, Adam Levine took the mic and delivered a suave and slinky version of “Faith.”
But the moment that truly stole the show was when Carrie Underwood took center stage. With a soul-stirring performance of “One More Try,” she poured every ounce of hurt, yearning, and quiet grace into Michael’s original. The result was an emotionally charged tribute that left everyone in awe. George Michael’s legacy was honored in grand style.
Big Boi, St. Vincent Celebrate Kate Bush
Big Boi, who’s been championing Kate Bush’s unique brilliance long before her resurgence in popularity through “Stranger Things,” was the perfect choice to deliver the induction speech for the enigmatic art rock icon. Unfortunately, Kate Bush couldn’t make it to the ceremony in person, but she did send in a heartfelt thank-you message.
With a touch of humor, the OutKast MC quipped, “I’m the White House press secretary for Kate Bush.” He then went on to explain how it’s no surprise that she’s enjoying a massive resurgence in popularity, even decades after her debut. He pointed out that if you were hearing her for the first time in recent years, you’d probably think she’s a current artist. Kate Bush’s timeless artistry has that effect on people.
Adding to the magic of the moment, St. Vincent, who was forever changed by Bush’s 1989 classic “The Sensual World,” took to the stage and delivered a haunting rendition of “Running Up That Hill (A Deal With God).” It was a performance that sent shivers down spines, paying a fitting tribute to a musical visionary.
Nobody Does It Better Than Chaka Khan
Jimmy Page Makes Surprise Appearance to Rip Through Link Wray
Jimmy Page, a guitar legend in his own right and one of the most influential guitarists of all time, pulled off an unexpected surprise at the Rock Hall. He made a spontaneous appearance to induct the late Link Wray, a true pioneer of the power chord. Page’s presence was a game-changer and a testament to the respect he had for Wray.
Before taking the stage, Page featured in a video montage dedicated to the power chord maestro, expressing his deep admiration for Link Wray, who was his “hero.” Page emphasized, “if ever there was a guitarist who deserved this, it was Link Wray.” The audience was already electrified by his words, but when the lights came up and the Led Zeppelin legend was there in the flesh, the crowd erupted with pure excitement.
Then came the icing on the cake. Jimmy Page picked up a double-necked guitar and kicked into gear with “Rumble,” one of Link Wray’s iconic instrumentals. You could see the joy on Page’s face as he played a song that had been close to his heart his whole life. The crowd lapped up every second of it, and even Elton John couldn’t resist blowing him a kiss as he took the stage to induct Bernie Taupin. It was a jaw-dropping moment that left everyone in awe of the power of music and the bonds it creates across generations
Bernie Taupin Roasts Jann Wenner
Bernie Taupin, known for his legendary songwriting collaborations with Elton John, didn’t miss a beat as he stepped up to the podium for his induction speech. He started with a playful quip, saying, “I have to follow Jimmy Page,” acknowledging the immense act he had to follow.
During his speech, Taupin paid tribute to the diverse array of artists who inspired him throughout his life. From Louis Armstrong to the Louvin Brothers, Willie Dixon to Leonard Cohen, and the incomparable Merle Haggard, he highlighted the rich tapestry of influences that shaped his musical journey. He also made a strong case for Merle Haggard’s overdue induction into the Rock Hall.
But Taupin wasn’t just about music; his artistry extended to visual expression as well. The night before his induction, an art exhibit titled “Ragged Glory” at Chase Contemporary in Manhattan showcased more than a dozen of his art pieces, including pieces that combined American flags with twine and painted guitars adorned with words. One of these pieces paid homage to the Louvin Brothers’ classic “Tragic Songs of Life.”
In a cheeky twist, Taupin couldn’t resist taking a light jab at Jann Wenner, the Rolling Stone founder who played a role in launching the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame back in the ’80s. Earlier that year, Wenner had made dismissive comments about women and Black artists, suggesting that they were less “articulate” when discussing rock ‘n’ roll compared to white men. These remarks, for which he later apologized, led to his removal from the Rock Hall’s board of directors. During his induction speech, Taupin celebrated the “articulate women” and “articulate Black artists” in the Rock Hall who continue to inspire him. It was a witty nod to the importance of recognizing the diverse voices and talents within the world of rock and roll
Tom Morello was all the Rage
When Ice-T stepped up to induct Rage Against the Machine, he made it clear he wasn’t playing the role of a rule-enforcing cop. “I’m far from a mother—kin’ cop, don’t get it twisted,” he declared with a bit of a chuckle. And then, he dropped a bombshell of an opinion: Ice-T proclaimed that Rage Against the Machine had the greatest rock lyric of all time with the iconic line, “F–k you, I won’t do what you tell me.” It was a bold statement from the rap icon that perfectly encapsulated the defiant spirit of the band.
While Rage Against the Machine didn’t appear in full force for the induction, Tom Morello was there to accept the honor. He took the opportunity to celebrate what he called the “fifth member” of the band: their incredibly devoted fans.
Morello passionately expressed his belief in the power of music to change the world. He pointed out that their mosh pits had seen everyone from organizers and activists to public defenders and even presidents of Chile and Finland. Morello offered some sage advice: “If you’re a soldier or a cop, follow your conscience, not your orders. And if you’re a human being, stand up for your planet before it’s too late.” His parting words resonated deeply, challenging everyone to take action and make a difference. It was a call to stir up some serious trouble and change the world for the better.
Elton John, Brittany Howard, Sheryl Crow & Chris Stapleton Honor Robbie Robertson
After a touching montage paying tribute to the artists we’ve lost in the past year, an all-star lineup took the stage to honor the late Robbie Robertson. Sheryl Crow and Chris Stapleton led the way, with Sheryl Crow declaring, “This is for you, Robbie,” before launching into a deeply moving rendition of The Band’s classic “The Weight.”
The performance was nothing short of exceptional, and when Brittany Howard, known for her impeccable vocals, stepped forward to deliver a jaw-dropping verse, the crowd was left in awe.
As the song reached its powerful climax, the lights revealed a surprise guest: Elton John had returned to the piano. He joined the band, and together they closed out the performance with a heartfelt rendition of a song that is undeniably part of the gospel of rock ‘n’ roll. It was a moment that celebrated the enduring legacy of The Band and paid a fitting tribute to Robbie Robertson’s contributions to the world of music
Willie Nelson 25 years past retirement age
Even in the midst of a black-tie affair like the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame ceremony, Willie Nelson had an uncanny ability to put everyone at ease. His part of the evening exuded a sense of laid-back charm, from Dave Matthews’ playful introduction, where he shared an amusing tale of getting a bit “elevated” on Willie’s tour bus, to Nelson’s own acceptance speech.
The Red Headed Stranger took a moment to express his gratitude, giving thanks to several of his past collaborators, such as Ray Charles, Booker T. Jones, Leon Russell, and his fellow Highwaymen partners, Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, and Kris Kristofferson. In a heartwarming twist, he openly advocated for the future induction of Jennings and Kristofferson, hoping that one day they, too, would earn their place in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. (Cash, of course, had already entered the Hall in 1992.) Willie Nelson’s presence was a breath of fresh air, reminding everyone that, even on the grandest stages, humility and appreciation are the true hallmarks of a legendary artist.
Missy Elliott Brings the Night to a Close
Following an electrifying video montage featuring the likes of Cardi B and Justin Timberlake, the one and only Missy Elliott took the stage, delivering a brilliant and bonkers medley of her iconic hip-hop hits. Missy Elliott, known for her fearless innovation and trendsetting, embodies the essence of rock ‘n’ roll, making her the perfect choice as the first female rapper to enter the Rock Hall.
Her medley was nothing short of a runaway train, encompassing unforgettable tracks like “Get Ur Freak On,” “The Rain,” “Pass That Dutch,” “Work It,” and “Lose Control.” The infectious energy of her performance compelled the audience to hit the dance floor, even as the show had surpassed the four-hour mark and ventured past midnight.
Queen Latifah, in her introduction, humorously warned the audience, “I understand if you need to sit down – Missy will wear you out!” Then, Missy Elliott stepped up to the podium to deliver her acceptance speech. She humbly acknowledged the trailblazing female artists who paved the way for her, including Salt-N-Pepa, Queen Latifah, MC Lyte, Roxanne Shanté, Monie Love, and more, emphasizing that they were her inspiration and foundation.
Missy Elliott also shared a touching and amusing moment, revealing that her mother had never witnessed her perform throughout her entire career. The reason? Missy didn’t want her church-going mother to hear her “curse” on stage, and she had discouraged her from attending her concerts. However, in a heartwarming twist, her mother was in the audience that night, dressed in her Sunday best on a Friday evening, beaming with pride for her Rock and Roll Hall of Famer daughter. It was a beautiful and emotional moment that captured the essence of Missy Elliott’s groundbreaking journey.
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