In a deeply moving and electrifying moment, the 2025 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony opened with a tribute to the late funk icon Sly Stone that brought together legends and contemporary stars in a display of reverence and celebration. Held in Los Angeles, the event featured powerhouse performances from Stevie Wonder, Jennifer Hudson, Maxwell, and many others honoring Stone’s enduring legacy. 

The tribute saw Wonder and Beck trade vocals on “Dance to the Music,” followed by Maxwell’s stirring take on “Everyday People,” and Hudson closing the set with a thrilling rendition of “Higher.” Also joining the stellar lineup were Questlove of The Roots, Flea of Red Hot Chili Peppers, and Leon Thomas III — each bringing their own flair to the performance. 

A Celebration Rooted in Funk and Soul

Sly Stone, who passed away on June 9, 2025, at age 82, left an indelible mark on music with his band Sly & the Family Stone. Known for blending soul, rock, funk, and social commentary, Stone helped blaze a trail for countless artists. His early induction into the Hall of Fame in 1993 recognized the scope of his impact. 

The decision to kick off the ceremony with his tribute was both intentional and emotional. As Wonder took the stage, the room shifted—what began as glamour and glitz became a shared acknowledgement of heritage, musical innovation, and collective memory. Hudson’s powerful finale, backed by the other performers, felt like a passing of the torch: one generation honoring what came before and another stepping forward.

Highlights from the Tribute

The performance unfolded as a seamless mosaic of sound and symbolism:

• Wonder and Beck opened with “Dance to the Music,” the song’s unabashed funkiness setting the tone.
• Maxwell then led “Everyday People,” a track whose message of unity still resonates across decades.
• A jam segment of “Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin)” featured Flea’s iconic bass lines alongside Questlove’s drumming.
• Jennifer Hudson delivered the closing piece, “Higher,” with the emotional depth of gospel‑soul at full flight.  

The spectacle wasn’t only about performance—it was about legacy. In an era when musical roots are often digitized and commodified, this tribute reminded the audience of the source: raw, communal, and daring.