The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame has officially announced its 2024 inductees, recognizing a wide array of artists who have shaped the landscape of music. The announcement, made live on ‘American Idol’ by Ryan Seacrest and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Inductee Lionel Richie, revealed the newest class of honorees spanning various genres and generations.
In the coveted Performer Category, eight distinguished acts will be inducted:
- Mary J. Blige, the Queen of Hip-Hop Soul, recognized for her groundbreaking fusion of R&B and hip-hop.
- Cher, the iconic singer and actress, celebrated for her decades-long career and enduring influence on pop culture.
- Dave Matthews Band, known for their jam-band style and massive following, marking their significant impact on contemporary rock.
- Foreigner, the classic rock hitmakers, finally receiving recognition for their anthemic songs that have dominated airwaves for generations.
- Peter Frampton, the guitar virtuoso and singer-songwriter, acknowledged for his solo success and earlier work with Humble Pie.
- Kool & The Gang, the funk and R&B legends, honored for their infectious grooves and lasting impact on popular music.
- Ozzy Osbourne, the Prince of Darkness, recognized for both his pioneering work with Black Sabbath and his successful solo career in heavy metal.
- A Tribe Called Quest, the hip-hop innovators, celebrated for their intelligent lyrics and alternative approach to rap music.
Beyond the Performer category, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame also honors significant contributions in other areas. The Musical Influence Award will be bestowed upon:
- Alexis Korner, often called the “father of British blues,” for his pivotal role in the UK blues scene.
- John Mayall, another key figure in British blues, and mentor to numerous influential musicians.
- Big Mama Thornton, the blues singer whose original recording of “Hound Dog” became a rock and roll standard.
The Musical Excellence Award, recognizing artists for their exceptional skill and artistry, will be given to:
- Jimmy Buffett, the beloved singer-songwriter who created the “Gulf and Western” genre and a devoted fanbase.
- MC5, the proto-punk pioneers from Detroit, acknowledged for their raw energy and revolutionary sound.
- Dionne Warwick, the legendary pop and R&B vocalist, celebrated for her sophisticated sound and numerous hits.
- Norman Whitfield, the Motown songwriter and producer, responsible for crafting the signature sound of The Temptations and other Motown acts.
Finally, the prestigious Ahmet Ertegun Award, recognizing non-performing industry professionals, will honor:
- Suzanne de Passe, the influential music executive who played a crucial role in the success of Motown Records and later founded her own entertainment company.
The 2024 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony is set to take place on Saturday, October 19th at the Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse in Cleveland, Ohio. Music fans around the globe can tune in to watch the ceremony live on Disney+, with a special broadcast to follow on ABC at a later date and available on Hulu the following day.
John Sykes, Chairman of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Foundation, emphasized the diverse nature of this year’s class, stating, “Rock & Roll is an ever-evolving amalgam of sounds that impacts culture and moves generations. This diverse group of inductees each broke down musical barriers and influenced countless artists that followed in their footsteps.”
