OutKast Inducted into Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

Legendary hip-hop duo OutKast were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame yesterday, November 8, at a ceremony in Los Angeles, cementing their status as one of music’s most influential acts.

The induction ceremony at the Peacock Theater featured performances by Doja Cat, Killer Mike, J.I.D, Tyler, the Creator, Janelle Monáe, and Sleepy Brown, who joined Big Boi in a medley of OutKast’s greatest hits. Big Boi and André 3000 determined the speaking order with a live game of rock-paper-scissors. André 3000 later expressed gratitude to his extended musical family, the Dungeon Family, crediting their collective support for OutKast’s success, which began in the basement of late producer Rico Wade’s mother’s home. “A lot of times it’s a lot more than just the notes or the instruments that you playing,” André 3000 said. “It’s everybody that’s around you. It’s the family, and this is my family.”

The evening included heartfelt moments, with André 3000 becoming emotional while referencing fellow inductee Jack White, stating, “Great things start in little rooms.” Donald Glover, who cited OutKast as a major influence on his own work, including his acclaimed series Atlanta, delivered a sprawling introduction, emphasizing the duo’s impact on the Atlanta music scene and beyond. This induction recognizes the growing influence of hip-hop within the broader landscape of rock and roll history.

OutKast, comprised of André 3000 and Big Boi, released their debut album, Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik, in 1994, followed by a string of critically acclaimed albums including ATLiens, Aquemini, Stankonia, and Speakerboxxx/The Love Below, which earned them a Grammy Award for Album of the Year in 2004 – the last rap album to receive the honor. They join the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame class of 2025 alongside Cyndi Lauper, Bad Company, and others.

Hall of Fame officials stated that the induction class represents a diverse range of musical pioneers and innovators.