Legendary artist Kate Bush has finally been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, marking a significant milestone in her illustrious career. Her induction comes 25 years after she first made her mark on the music world.
Bush’s previous nominations in 2017, 2021, and 2022 did not result in induction, but her music has remained popular and relevant, thanks in part to the resurgence of her hit “Running Up That Hill” on social media after its inclusion in the popular series “Stranger Things.”
This achievement not only celebrates Kate Bush, but also the evolving landscape of rock and roll, as the genre continues to expand and encompass a diverse range of styles and influences.
Bush expressed her gratitude and surprise in a statement on her website:
I have to admit I’m completely shocked at the news of being inducted into the Hall of Fame! It’s something I just never thought would happen. Thank you so much to everyone who voted for me. It means a great deal that you would think of me. It’s such a huge honour. Now as part of the initiation ceremony I get to find out about the secret handshake… there is one, right? — Kate
Bush will be joining an impressive group of inductees this year, including Rage Against The Machine, Sheryl Crow, Missy Elliott, George Michael, Willie Nelson, and The Spinners.
Additional honorees include DJ Kool Herc and Link Wray, who will receive the Musical Influence Award, and Chaka Khan, Al Kooper, and Bernie Taupin, who will be recognized with the Musical Excellence Award. The late Don Cornelius, creator of “Soul Train,” will posthumously receive the Ahmet Ertegun Award.
Though Joy Division/New Order, Cyndi Lauper, Iron Maiden, A Tribe Called Quest, Soundgarden, and Warren Zevon were nominated this year, they were not inducted. However, they remain eligible for future consideration.
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony is set to take place on Nov. 3 at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. The event will return to Cleveland, home of the Rock Hall, in 2024.
Here are this year’s inductees:
Performer Category
- Kate Bush
- Sheryl Crow
- Missy Elliott
- George Michael
- Willie Nelson
- Rage Against the Machine
- The Spinners
Musical Influence Award
- DJ Kool Herc
- Link Wray
Musical Excellence Award
- Chaka Khan
- Al Kooper
- Bernie Taupin
Ahmet Ertegun Award
- Don Cornelius