OutKast is making history as they become the first rap duo to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. This achievement is part of the 2025 class of inductees, sharing the spotlight with artists like The White Stripes and Cyndi Lauper.
- The Atlanta rap duo’s induction will mark the first time they might reunite on stage since 2014, as their appearance at the ceremony is highly anticipated.
- Fellow musicians like Mariah Carey were shortlisted but ultimately not chosen for this year’s nomination, showcasing the competitiveness of the selection process.
- Meanwhile, Salt-N-Pepa takes a well-deserved spot in the Musical Influence category, expanding the representation of hip hop.
- Big Boi of OutKast likened this achievement to completing Thanos’ glove with the last infinity stone—signifying their lasting impact on music.
OutKast, the iconic rap duo from Atlanta, is officially joining the ranks of legends in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. This year, the Hall of Fame makes room for the first rap duo, OutKast, a nod to hip hop’s increasing influence, with other chosen artists including The White Stripes, Cyndi Lauper, and Soundgarden.
After Eric B & Rakim were overlooked last year, OutKast’s induction signals a broader acceptance of rap in a traditionally rock-dominated space. Hip hop artists like JAY-Z, Missy Elliott, and Biggie have already paved the way, but OutKast’s entry as a duo is particularly groundbreaking.
Speculation hangs in the air about whether OutKast will perform together at the induction ceremony set for November 8, to be streamed on Disney+. A performance would mark their first stage reunion in over a decade since their 2014 festival tour wrapped up.
Big Boi took to Instagram to express his excitement, calling the induction the “last infinity stone in the Thanos glove,” highlighting both the duo’s monumental success and their enduring legacy in music history.
Meanwhile, Mariah Carey’s omission from this year’s induction list underlines the competitive nature of being selected. However, Salt-N-Pepa’s inclusion in the Musical Influence category rightfully honors their trailblazing contributions to female empowerment in hip hop.
This event comes hot on the heels of last year’s ceremony when A Tribe Called Quest was inducted. During the event, Dave Chappelle praised their impact and Q-Tip stepped up for an emotional tribute to Phife Dawg, illustrating the tight-knit community within the hip hop world.
OutKast’s groundbreaking induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame stands as a testament to their enduring influence and the increasing recognition of hip hop in music history.
