The 2024 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony delivered an unforgettable night of music and tributes as icons like Cher, Mary J. Blige, and Ozzy Osbourne were officially inducted into the prestigious institution. The celebration, held at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse in Cleveland, Ohio, featured performances and speeches from some of music’s biggest names.
Cher Steals the Show with Dua Lipa and Zendaya
The night kicked off with a memorable duet as Dua Lipa performed Cher’s iconic hit “Believe,” with the pop legend herself joining in for a powerful collaboration. Later, Cher took to the stage alone for a performance of her classic anthem, “If I Could Turn Back Time.”
Cher’s induction speech was delivered by Zendaya, who paid tribute to the singer’s legendary fashion and influence on pop culture. “It’s impossible to measure the influence that Cher has had and continues to have on every one of us,” Zendaya remarked, sporting a daring outfit reminiscent of Cher’s famous Bob Mackie ensembles.
Cher, eligible for induction since 1990, humorously acknowledged the long wait in her speech. “It was easier getting divorced from two men than getting into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame,” she quipped, before crediting her resilience and her mother’s encouragement for her enduring career.
Ozzy Osbourne’s Grand Return to the Rock Hall
For Ozzy Osbourne, the night marked his second induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, following his 2006 induction with Black Sabbath. Jack Black had the honor of inducting the Prince of Darkness, who made a grand entrance onstage seated in a giant, demon-adorned throne.
Though Osbourne didn’t perform, he set the stage for a rousing rendition of his classic hit “Crazy Train” by delivering his iconic “All aboard!” introduction. Tool’s Maynard James Keenan took over vocals for the song, joined by a supergroup featuring Red Hot Chili Peppers drummer Chad Smith, Metallica’s Robert Trujillo, and producer Andrew Watt. Other performances of Osbourne’s hits, including “Mama, I’m Coming Home” and “No More Tears,” featured Zakk Wylde, Jelly Roll, and Billy Idol.
Mary J. Blige Brings the Soul
Mary J. Blige, introduced by longtime collaborators Dr. Dre and Method Man, brought the house down with a medley of her greatest hits. Joined by The Roots, Lucky Daye, and Ella Mai, Blige’s soulful performance was one of the night’s highlights.
In her acceptance speech, Blige thanked God, her collaborators, and her fans, saying, “Y’all endured blood, sweat, and tears with me and helped me heal.” She also shared words of wisdom, reminding the audience that “faith without works is dead.”
Other Inductees and Performances
Kool & the Gang, inducted by Chuck D, performed some of their most beloved hits in a tribute to their lasting influence on funk and R&B. Dave Matthews Band, inducted by actress Julia Roberts, also took the stage to perform several fan favorites, including “Ants Marching” and “Crash into Me.”
Foreigner was inducted by Sammy Hagar, with performances from Demi Lovato, Kelly Clarkson, and original vocalist Lou Gramm. The group performed their biggest hits, including “Feels Like the First Time” and “I Want to Know What Love Is.”
Special Awards and Honors
The ceremony also recognized artists and industry professionals who shaped rock & roll’s legacy. Alexis Korner, Big Mama Thornton, and John Mayall received the Musical Influencer Award for their significant contributions to the genre. Suzanne de Passe, known for her work in television, music, and film, was honored with the Ahmet Ertegun Award, which celebrates non-performing industry professionals who have made a major impact on rock music.
What’s Next
For fans who missed the live ceremony, an ABC special featuring the night’s performances and speeches will air on Monday, Jan. 1, 2025. The special will also be available for streaming on Hulu the following day, giving viewers a chance to relive the excitement of the 2024 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony.
—
Photo Credit: Tinseltown / Shutterstock.com