The 2024 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony took place on October 19 at the Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse in Cleveland, delivering an unforgettable night of music, tributes, and star-studded appearances. Legends such as Cher, Ozzy Osbourne, Mary J. Blige, and others were honored, with surprise guests like Zendaya, Dua Lipa, and Julia Roberts making waves.
Cher Steals the Spotlight with Zendaya’s Touch
The event kicked off with a performance of Cher’s iconic hit “Believe”, where Dua Lipa joined the legendary singer on stage. Later, Zendaya inducted Cher, wearing a daring gown reminiscent of Cher’s iconic wardrobe, symbolizing her admiration for the pop icon.
In her acceptance speech, Cher reflected on her legacy:
“I changed the sound of music,” she said, referencing her groundbreaking use of auto-tune on “Believe.” Cher also gave heartfelt advice to women facing challenges, saying, “The one thing I got from my mom is to never give up. I’m talking to the women … down and out, we keep going.”
Julia Roberts Honors Dave Matthews Band
Julia Roberts gave a touching speech for the Dave Matthews Band, celebrating the band’s “spontaneous abandon” and their ability to connect with fans through their energetic performances. The band later took the stage, leading the audience in a powerful singalong.
Dr. Dre Celebrates Mary J. Blige’s Impact
In another emotional moment, Dr. Dre inducted Mary J. Blige, praising her for creating hip-hop soul, a genre that has profoundly shaped modern music. The crowd was treated to performances by Kool & the Gang, with tributes led by Chuck D and The Roots.
Musical Tributes and Posthumous Honors
There were additional tributes throughout the night for inductees including Peter Frampton, A Tribe Called Quest, Dionne Warwick, and Foreigner. Jelly Roll and Billy Idol came together to perform a tribute for Ozzy Osbourne, marking his second induction—his first being with Black Sabbath in 2006.
A poignant moment came when the ceremony paid posthumous tributes to Jimmy Buffett, Kris Kristofferson, Cissy Houston, John Mayall, and Big Mama Thornton for their lasting contributions to music.
Moment of Silence for Liam Payne
While not inducted, the ceremony included a moment of silence to honor Liam Payne, following the tragic news of his death in Buenos Aires last week.
The 2024 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony delivered not only electrifying performances but also heartfelt moments celebrating music’s past and present. From Cher’s trailblazing legacy to Ozzy’s dark charisma, the night showcased rock and roll’s enduring spirit.
