The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame has just dropped its list of nominees for 2025, and it’s packed with legendary names that have shaped the sound of generations. From pop royalty to hip-hop innovators and rock icons, this year’s lineup celebrates the artists who’ve left an unforgettable mark on music and culture.
First-Time Nominees and Returning Legends
Eight of the 14 nominees are appearing on the ballot for the first time, including:
- Bad Company
- The Black Crowes
- Chubby Checker
- Joe Cocker
- Billy Idol
- Maná
- OutKast
- Phish
They join returning nominees like Mariah Carey, Cyndi Lauper, Joy Division/New Order, Soundgarden, and The White Stripes, all of whom have left an indelible mark on the music industry.
Iconic Artists with Chart-Topping Legacies
Two nominees, Mariah Carey and Chubby Checker, stand out for their monumental influence on music and culture. Carey, with her record-breaking 19 No. 1 hits on the Billboard Hot 100, has redefined pop and R&B. Checker, known for his timeless hits “The Twist” and “Let’s Twist Again,” helped shape the sound and style of rock ‘n’ roll.
Brothers in Harmony (and Discord)
This year’s list also features two sets of musical brothers with storied histories of both collaboration and conflict:
- Oasis: The British rock band, known for hits like “Wonderwall” and “Don’t Look Back in Anger,” was driven by the dynamic—and often tumultuous—relationship between brothers Noel and Liam Gallagher.
- The Black Crowes: Blending Southern rock, blues, and glam, the Robinson brothers, Chris and Rich, created iconic albums like “Shake Your Money Maker” before their public feud.
A Celebration of Musical Diversity
The nominees span genres, eras, and styles, showcasing the rich tapestry of modern music:
- Cyndi Lauper: The 1980s pop icon behind timeless hits like “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” and “Time After Time,” Lauper has also made her mark on Broadway, winning a Tony Award for “Kinky Boots.”
- OutKast: André 3000 and Big Boi pushed hip-hop into new territory with their innovative sound and unforgettable tracks like “Hey Ya!” and “Ms. Jackson.”
- Phish: Known for their electrifying live performances, Phish has become a cornerstone of the jam band scene.
- Maná: The Mexican rock band has brought Latin music to the global stage, blending rock, pop, and traditional influences.
Selection Process and Ceremony
The 2025 inductees will be announced in late April, alongside honorees in three special categories: Musical Influence, Musical Excellence, and the Ahmet Ertegun Non-Performer Award. To be eligible, artists must have released their first commercial recording at least 25 years prior to nomination.
The final inductees will be chosen by a voting body of over 1,200 artists, historians, and music industry professionals. Criteria include the artist’s influence on other musicians, the longevity and scope of their career, and their innovation and excellence in style and technique.
The induction ceremony will take place in Los Angeles this fall, continuing the tradition of celebrating music’s most influential figures.
Building on a Legacy of Greatness
Last year’s inductees included Mary J. Blige, Cher, Foreigner, A Tribe Called Quest, Kool & The Gang, Ozzy Osbourne, Dave Matthews Band, and Peter Frampton. The class of 2025 promises to carry on this tradition, honoring the artists who’ve given us the soundtrack to our lives.
