Hip-hop pioneers OutKast were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame during an emotional ceremony last night in Cleveland, Ohio. Both members of the iconic duo, André 3000 and Big Boi, were present to accept the honour.
The induction was presented by actor and musician Donald Glover, and the event featured a star-studded tribute performance. The ceremony underscored the duo’s profound influence on music, with the celebration highlighting their lasting legacy, as reported by Reuters.
Big Boi and André 3000 Reunite for Historic Honour
During the induction, Donald Glover delivered a moving speech, praising OutKast for pushing musical boundaries. He noted how their experiments always felt destined for greatness.
Big Boi and André 3000 took the stage together, playfully deciding who would speak first by playing rock-paper-scissors. Big Boi won the toss and gave an emotional shout-out to his creative partner, thanking André 3000 for their long-standing collaboration.
André 3000 was visibly moved during his speech, referencing a comment from fellow inductee Jack White. He agreed that the best ideas often begin in small, intimate spaces, echoing White’s sentiment about the genesis of great art.
All-Star Tribute Celebrates OutKast’s Greatest Hits
The tribute performance was a key highlight of the evening. Big Boi and J.I.D. kicked things off with a rendition of “ATLiens,” followed by Doja Cat’s soulful version of “Ms. Jackson.”
Tyler, the Creator brought his high-energy style to “B.O.B. (Bombs Over Baghdad),” and Janelle Monáe, a protégé of Big Boi, delivered a stripped-down, acoustic version of the timeless hit “Hey Ya.” The grand finale saw all the performers unite on stage for a powerful rendition of “The Whole World,” closing out the night with a celebration of OutKast’s enduring influence on music.