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2026 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony Recap: Best Moments
Billboard • • general
Key Points:
- U2 kicked off the Rock Hall ceremony with a surprise two-song set featuring “Silencio” from their new album Carnaval De Luz and the classic “Pride (In the Name of Love),” setting the tone for a night honoring music legends.
- Usher paid tribute to Luther Vandross with a medley of his hits, impressing with both vocal warmth and signature dance moves, while Oprah Winfrey highlighted Vandross' impact on soul music during her induction speech.
- The ceremony featured powerful tributes including Cynthia Erivo and Travis Barker honoring Phil Collins with “In the Air Tonight,” and Wu-Tang Clan performing a medley with all nine living members present, celebrating their induction and remembering late rapper Ol’ Dirty Bastard.
- Queen Latifah and MC Lyte, both hip-hop pioneers inducted the same year, performed together with Megan Thee Stallion and Remy Ma, emphasizing unity among women in the male-dominated genre.
- The event concluded with a dynamic tribute to Rick Rubin featuring performances by Red Hot Chili Peppers and Aerosmith with Run-DMC, and a robust showcase for Billy Idol, who closed the night encouraging young artists to pursue their dreams.
