By: Nora Scarbro

Getting nominated for Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction reflects years of work, “Unlike the grammys for example that highlight the present talent, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame showcases artists that have proven they have impacted the future of music,” senior Maggie Sahlbom said. 

The induction ceremony itself features many different aspects like performances, speeches, and tributes to the nominees, as well as any guest appearances. The inductees this year were Cyndi Lauper, Outkast, the White Stripes, Chubby Checker, Salt-N-Pepa, Warren Zevon, Carole Kaye, Thom Bell, Nicky Hopkins, Lenny Waronker, and Soundgarden. All of these artists were inducted because their contributions to music will go beyond their lifetime, each one bringing a unique set of talents to the industry. 

One of the main ways that the impacts of artists is known is through those they inspire. The White Stripes brought out guest Olivia Rodrigo. Billboard reported, “She declared the duo’s Seven Nation Army ‘iconic,’ before taking the stage to perform a lovely, harmony-filled version of the pair’s 2001 tune ‘I Think We’re Gonna Be Friends’ with Feist.” 

OutKast brought out Tyler, the Creator and Cyndi Lauper welcomed Chappell Roan to perform. “Making those connections to past artists is really important,” BHS Rock and Roll History teacher Bob Parks said. “Because artists today may not sound the same, but they have a connection.”

Billboard reported Lauper’s performance is one that stood out to many. “Singing ‘True Colors,’ with the stage bathed in rainbow colors, she stopped the song and simply held her fist in the air in silence for at least 30 seconds in solidarity with the LGBTQ community.”