The 31st induction ceremony for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is taking place at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, welcoming a class that includes N.W.A., Steve Miller, Chicago, Cheap Trick and more.
While the rest of us can tune into the special on HBO on April 30 at 8 p.m. EST, there’s been bits and pieces of the night’s moments on social media. In particular, Kendrick Lamar’s tribute to the iconic West Coast group was nothing short of epic.
According to Radio, K. Dot broke down how the group influenced his life and many others. Here’s what he said:
On Ice Cube: “Cube, where you at? The storytelling genius, every bar had us hangin’ on our seats. Each verse giving us a glimpse of what it was like to be from Compton.”
On Dr. Dre: “Dre! The scientist, the perfectionist, the producer extraordinary…. he’s one of the best producers of all time, through today. Believe that!”
On Eazy-E: “He was a true mastermind, his persona was unmatched, his high pitched tone spoke to nations across the globe. He’s the reason I’m proud to say I’m from Compton.”
Radio reports that Dr. Dre says he believes Kendrick will be on the very same stage one day. He also thanked Eazy-E, saying “there’s no way we’d be here without him.”
MC Ren addressed Gene Simmons’ previous comments to Rolling Stone that “rap will die.” Simmons later added, "I am looking forward to the death of hip-hop.”
"I want to say to Mr. Gene Simmons that hip-hop is here forever," Ren stated. "We're supposed to be here."
Watch some clips below, and read Kendrick’s full speech here.
