The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame’s New Year’s Day induction ceremony shattered records, drawing an impressive 4.6 million viewers on ABC, making it the most-watched broadcast in the event’s history. This marked a remarkable 49% increase from the previous year’s audience of 3.1 million.
In the coveted 18-49 demographic, the show achieved a 0.5 rating, reflecting a 39% rise from 2023 and tying its best performance in 20 years. The three-hour special also became the highest-rated primetime entertainment program on broadcast television in six years, surpassing all others since January 1, 2019.
Although the broadcast aired on New Year’s Day 2025, it honored the Hall of Fame’s 2024 class of inductees. This year’s honorees included legends like Mary J. Blige, Cher, Foreigner, Peter Frampton, Kool & the Gang, Ozzy Osbourne, Dave Matthews Band, and A Tribe Called Quest. Additional awards celebrated Alexis Korner, John Mayall, and Big Mama Thornton for Musical Influence, while Jimmy Buffett, Dionne Warwick, MC5, and Norman Whitfield received recognition for Musical Excellence. Suzanne De Passe was honored with the prestigious Ahmet Ertegun Award.
Originally held in Cleveland, Ohio, on October 19, the ceremony’s delayed broadcast reached a broader audience, premiering on ABC before becoming available on Hulu the following day. The evening featured dynamic performances and appearances by a stellar lineup of artists, including Busta Rhymes, Dr. Dre, Demi Lovato, Dua Lipa, Jelly Roll, and Keith Urban.
The production, helmed by Joel Gallen and Tenth Planet Productions, was a seamless celebration of musical heritage. Executive producers John Sykes, Joel Peresman, and Gallen curated a night that resonated deeply with audiences, cementing the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame’s cultural relevance.
This milestone event not only highlighted the enduring appeal of its honorees but also reaffirmed the power of music to unite and inspire across generations.
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