Phil Collins delivered an emotional speech, Billy Idol energized the crowd and hip-hop icons Wu-Tang Clan, Queen Latifah and MC Lyte took centre stage at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony in Los Angeles on Saturday night.
Despite the absence of several British inductees including Oasis, Iron Maiden and Sade the event at the Peacock Theater delivered high-energy surprises, opening with U2 and closing with a joint performance of "Walk This Way" by Run DMC and Aerosmith.
The 75-year-old Collins inducted as a solo artist by Blink-182 drummer Travis Barker, walked on stage with canes due to ongoing health issues and teared up during a standing ovation. Cynthia Erivo and Barker followed with a soaring tribute to Collins’ hit "In the Air Tonight."
Oprah Winfrey inducted the late R&B legend Luther Vandross, praising him as the "maestro of the love song" before Usher performed a medley of his classics. Meanwhile, Billy Idol rocked the venue alongside guitarist Steve Stevens and No Doubt’s Gwen Stefani.
Hip-hop was heavily celebrated as comedian Chris Rock inducted all 10 current members of the Wu-Tang Clan, who performed a lively jazz-backed medley. Trailblazers Queen Latifah and MC Lyte received Early Influence Awards and teamed up to perform their hits "U.N.I.T.Y." and "Ruffneck."
Legendary producer Rick Rubin delivered a one-sentence acceptance speech before the Red Hot Chili Peppers performed "Give It Away" dressed in fake white beards matching his signature look.
Elsewhere, bassist Peter Hook was the sole member to represent Joy Division and New Order, while tributes honoured no-shows Oasis and Iron Maiden. An edited broadcast of the ceremony will air on ABC and Disney+ on December 9.
