11 Unforgettable Moments From the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame 2017 Ceremony
The 2017 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony delivered a night of emotional tributes, powerhouse performances, and long-awaited reunions at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center on April 7. With a lineup that honored legends across decades and genres, the evening celebrated not just music, but the enduring spirit of rock and roll. From political statements to surprise appearances, here are 11 unforgettable moments from the night.
1. Pearl Jam Reunites With Original Drummer Dave Krusen
Grunge icons Pearl Jam made their long-awaited Rock Hall debut with a powerful speech and a heartwarming performance alongside original drummer Dave Krusen, who played on their legendary debut album Ten. It marked a rare reunion and an emotional full-circle moment for the band and fans alike.
2. David Letterman Inducts Pearl Jam With Classic Wit
Taking over for a sick Neil Young, David Letterman inducted Pearl Jam with a mix of humor and sincerity. He praised their authenticity and activism, and even joked about their fight against Ticketmaster—calling them the only band he knew that could make “corporate greed look bad with a guitar.”
3. Tupac Shakur Honored With Electrifying Tribute
Tupac Shakur became the sixth hip-hop artist inducted into the Hall of Fame. His tribute featured an explosive medley by Alicia Keys, YG, Snoop Dogg T.I., and Treach, showcasing the lasting impact of the rapper’s legacy. T.I. donned Tupac’s signature bandana and vest in a powerful visual homage.
4. noop Dogg’s Emotional Induction Speech for Tupac
Snoop Dogg delivered one of the most heartfelt speeches of the night, sharing personal stories of his friendship with Tupac. He recalled their time together at Death Row Records and reflected on the rapper’s complexity, calling him “a strong black man that stood for his people until the end.”
5. Journey Performs With Steve Perry—Sort Of
While former frontman Steve Perry did not perform with Journey, his presence alone made headlines. Perry joined his former bandmates on stage for the induction speech, graciously thanking fans and band members. The group, fronted by current vocalist Arnel Pineda, still brought the house down with classics like “Don’t Stop Believin’.”
6. Yes Pays Tribute to Late Bassist Chris Squire
Progressive rock pioneers Yes opened their induction by honoring late founding member Chris Squire. Fellow rock legend Geddy Lee of Rush inducted the group and even performed with them, playing bass on “Roundabout” in Squire’s memory—a touching moment for fans of prog rock.
7. Lenny Kravitz Honors Prince With Gospel-Fueled Set
Lenny Kravitz paid tribute to Prince, who passed away the year prior, with a soul-stirring performance of “When Doves Cry” and “The Cross.” Backed by a full gospel choir, Kravitz’s tribute was a show-stopping reminder of Prince’s spiritual depth and musical genius.
8. ELO Opens Ceremony With “Roll Over Beethoven”
Electric Light Orchestra (ELO) set the tone for the night with their rollicking version of “Roll Over Beethoven,” a nod to rock and roll’s roots. It was a fitting start for the band’s long-overdue induction and a reminder of their orchestral rock brilliance.
9. Joan Baez Delivers Poignant Speech and Performance
Folk legend Joan Baez, another 2017 inductee, gave a heartfelt and politically charged speech, reflecting on her lifetime of activism. Her performance of “Swing Low, Sweet Chariot” and “The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down” reminded the crowd of music’s power to drive change.
10. Nile Rodgers Receives Award for Musical Excellence
Although not formally inducted with Chic, super-producer Nile Rodgersreceived the Award for Musical Excellence. From David Bowie to Daft Punk, Rodgers’ influence spans generations. His acceptance was humble and inspiring, noting, “I’ve stood on the shoulders of giants.”
11. The All-Star Jam Closes the Night
No Rock Hall ceremony is complete without a massive all-star jam. The night ended with members from across the Class of 2017 joining together on stage for a celebratory rendition of Neil Young’s “Rockin’ in the Free World,” a symbolic finish to a night of unity, rebellion, and timeless music.
Final Thoughts
The 2017 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction was more than a celebration of past achievements—it was a reminder of music’s lasting power to unite, provoke, and heal. Whether it was Pearl Jam’s passionate authenticity, Tupac’s raw truth, or Lenny Kravitz’s searing tribute to Prince, the night offered something unforgettable for every fan of rock’s rebellious heart.
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Class of 2017:
Pearl Jam
Tupac Shakur
Journey
Yes
Electric Light Orchestra (ELO)
Joan Baez
Nile Rodgers (Award for Musical Excellence)
