Outkast Inducted Into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame And Celebrated By Artists

By: Olivia Armstead

Legendary hip-hop duo Outkast was celebrated at the annual Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony as new inductees on Saturday, Nov. 8.  

The duo was inducted by Donald Glover, who is also known for his music under the name Childish Gambino. Both Big Boi and Andre 3000, the members of Outkast, were in attendance, but only Big Boi participated in a performance that included artists like J.I.D., Doja Cat, Tyler, the Creator, Janelle Monae, and Killer Mike, per Pitchfork. 

Following the performances, the duo took to the stage to give their acceptance speech, which was filled with emotion. 

“Jack is, man, he’s one of my favorites – we love you, man,” said Andre 3000, referencing Jack White’s speech earlier in the ceremony, per Consequence of Sound. “But one thing that he said, he said something about little rooms. And we started in a little room. Great things start in little rooms.”

Big Boi spoke after, making sure to shout out Savannah and Atlanta, Georgia, before stating, “I wanna say, especially, to my brother right here—thank you for making me be the best I can be, and going toe to toe on the records. Iron sharpen iron just to be the best.”

This recent acknowledgement of this legendary duo has inspired young musicians and has allowed them to reflect on the impact Outkast has made on future generations. 

“[Outkast’s] music is fun and paved the way for so many artists to think outside the box when creating music and blending genres,” said Sophia Hoffler, a member of the Hampton University choir. “Their music makes me smile and forget about the cookie-cutter music that is often promoted in the music industry today.”

“Future generations of musicians should look at how Outkast, [the duo itself], have different styles and personalities, but they work well together in music,” added Prophecy Wood, a trombone player in the Hampton University band. “Their music inspired a lot of people, and the people they collaborated with made music that a lot of people liked. Their name says it all. They were outcasts who were accepted by a lot of people through their music.”