A first round of performers was announced at the same time Disney+ and ABC revealed acquiring broadcast and streaming rights. Brandi Carlile, Dave Matthews, Chris Stapleton, H.E.R., St. Vincent and New Edition will be among the artists saluting this year’s honorees with tribute numbers or collaborations. Among the inductees themselves, Willie Nelson, Sheryl Crow, Missy Elliott and Chaka Khan have been locked in as performers. <\/p>\n
“This historic live stream on Disney+ and special on ABC is a testament to the diverse sounds and enduring power of rock ‘and’n’ roll,” said John Sykes, chairman of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Foundation, in a statement. Added Rob Mills, executive VP of unscripted and alternative entertainment for Walt Disney Television: “We are so excited to offer audiences a front-row seat when they tune in to Disney+ and ABC.”<\/p>\n
Producers are not yet revealing which of the non-inductee performers will be saluting which members of the incoming class of ’23, so the guessing games can begin on who best aligns with who. <\/p>\n
Curiosity remains about whether Rage Against the Machine could perform, since the group has been back on hiatus since the 2023 leg of a reunion tour was canceled after singer Zack de la Rocha suffered an injury. The Spinners remain a question mark as well; the current touring lineup does not include any of the original members being inducted, most — but not all — of whom have died. Inductee George Michael died in 2016, but there’s little doubt a tribute will be a centerpiece of the show. A performance by Kate Bush would be the longest shot among living inductees; she has not performed publicly since a 2014 residency. But given the resurgence of “Running Up That Hill,” guest performers would be lining up to be the one selected to cover that song.<\/p>\n
It’s possible some of the inductees in non-performer categories could be the beneficiary of musical salutes. Lyricist Bernie Taupin, producer-sideman Al Kooper, rock guitar pioneer Link Wray, hip-hop founding force DJ Kool Herc and TV host Don Cornelius are also on the docket to be inducted.<\/p>\n
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