Exhilaration at the 2023 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame with Sheryl Crow and Chaka Khan

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The electrifying atmosphere at the 2023 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony was undeniable as Sheryl Crow and Chaka Khan enthralled the audience on Friday evening. The legendary Queen of Funk delivered a rousing set that featured a medley of her classics, including “Ain’t Nobody,” while Crow, in collaboration with Olivia Rodrigo, offered a stirring rendition of “If It Makes You Happy.”

The stage was shared by Crow and Rodrigo, both donning black attire, as they exchanged verses and strummed their guitars. The star-studded event saw Stevie Nicks join Crow for a rendition of “Strong Enough,” and Peter Frampton added his vocals to “Everyday Is a Winding Road.”

Crow likened her recognition to receiving an Oscar for an unfinished screenplay and extended her gratitude to her family for their unwavering support and the gift of music lessons, highlighting the universal nature of music.

The ceremony anticipated performances by fellow inductees Missy Elliott and Willie Nelson. Dave Matthews, Brandi Carlile, and Chris Stapleton were slated to accompany Nelson, while Elton John emerged from retirement to perform in honor of his collaborator Bernie Taupin.

For the first time, the event broadcast live from New York City on Disney+.

Laura Dern took the stage to induct Crow, praising her as a formidable and divine figure in the industry. Dern recounted the initial confusion in the music industry regarding what to do with a Southern woman who wrote her own songs and played the guitar, noting how Crow would soon become a defining voice of her generation.

Andrew Ridgeley paid homage to George Michael, his late Wham! bandmate, emphasizing the depth of Michael’s music and compassion. Michael’s tribute saw Miguel, Carrie Underwood, and Adam Levine each performing one of his renowned tracks.

The late Don Cornelius, creator of “Soul Train,” was also inducted, his legacy celebrated with a festive dance tribute by the audience. Notable figures like Snoop Dogg, Questlove, and Lionel Richie acknowledged his pioneering contributions through a commemorative video.

Chaka Khan’s performance was a highlight, joined by H.E.R., Sia, and Common for a hit-packed medley. Guitarist Tony Maiden from Rufus, the band that spotlighted Khan’s early career, joined her as she acknowledged his role in her success.

Kate Bush was inducted by Big Boi, who drew parallels between her unique musical approach and hip-hop culture. St. Vincent offered a tribute by performing “Running Up That Hill (A Deal with God),” although Bush herself was not in attendance.

The influence of hip-hop was further acknowledged as LL Cool J introduced DJ Kool Herc, celebrating his foundational role in the genre. Queen Latifah presented Missy Elliott, marking her as the first female hip-hop artist to enter the Rock Hall, preceding her performance.

The Spinners were celebrated by New Edition in a performance that brought back some of their greatest hits, with John Edwards and Henry Fambrough representing the group.

The 2023 class also welcomed Rage Against the Machine, Link Wray posthumously, and producer Al Kooper, with Ice-T presenting for Rage Against the Machine.

This year’s ceremony notably included a strong female presence, a poignant development following the removal of Jann Wenner from the board of directors after controversial remarks regarding Black and female artists.

Induction into the Hall of Fame requires artists to have released their first commercial recording at least a quarter-century prior, with votes cast by a diverse group of over a thousand professionals.

ABC is set to air a special encapsulating the ceremony’s most memorable performances and moments on January 1.

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More about Rock & Roll Hall of Fame 2023

• 2023 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Highlights
• Sheryl Crow and Olivia Rodrigo’s Performance
• Chaka Khan’s Career Retrospective
• Rock Hall’s Live Stream on Disney+
• Laura Dern on Inducting Sheryl Crow
• Tribute to George Michael
• Missy Elliott’s Historic Induction
• The Spinners’ Tribute Performance
• DJ Kool Herc’s Influence on Hip-Hop
• Jann Wenner’s Controversy and Apology
• Elton John Honors Bernie Taupin
• St. Vincent Covers Kate Bush
• Induction Eligibility Criteria
• ABC’s Rock Hall Special Announcement
• Follow Mark Kennedy on Twitter