U2 were inducted by none other than Bruce Springsteen, whom the Irish rockers had inducted into the Hall in 1999. "This was a band that wanted to lay claim to this world--and the next one, too.  They are the keepers of some of the most beautiful sonic architecture in rock 'n' roll," Springsteen said in front of the black-tie audience. 

Springsteen later joined the band on stage for one song of their four song set.  The band kicked things off with "Until the End of the World," and then launched into their mega-hit "Pride (In the Name of Love)," but it was the third song "I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For," that capped the evening with the Boss joined the band on stage to sing along.  U2 then ended their set with their current hit "Vertigo". 

Although U2 was the highlight of the event, which marked the ceremony's 20th anniversary, other artists were honored during the evening as well. Neil Young took to the stage to induct The Pretenders. The group's frontwoman Chrissie Hynde took the opportunity to honor two early original members of the band who had died.  "We are a tribute band," Hynde said. "We're paying tribute to James Honeyman-Scott and Pete Farndon, without whom we would not have been here." 

Young joined The Pretenders on stage during their three song set to help with "My City Was Gone". 

Where would rock and roll be without the Blues?  While the Hall has a credibility issue with hard rock and metal fans, Blues artists always get their proper respect and the induction of Chicago Blues legend Buddy Guy was no exception.  Two men synonymous with the Blues, B.B. King and Eric Clapton were on hand to honor Guy and provide an extended three guitar Blues jam. 

R&B crooner Percy Sledge was inducted by Rod Stewart and performed his signature song "When A Man Loves A Woman".  The O'Jays which fans of the Trump reality series "The Apprentice" should be familiar with for their "For The Love of Money", were inducted by Justin Timberlake. 

Highlights from the ceremony will be shown this weekend on VH1. Check your local listings for times. 
 
more on U2

Preview and purchase music from U2

Purchase Premium Tickets
 
 

Rant or Rave? Your turn, post your comments and thoughts on this news item. But hey keep it clean, we wouldn't want to have to wash your mouth out with Old Spice.

Fan Speak:

...end