Overview
- David Letterman inducted his longtime friend with a speech recalling their 2002 conversation and Zevon’s “enjoy every sandwich” reflection on mortality.
- The Killers played “Lawyers, Guns and Money” with Waddy Wachtel, and guitarist Dave Keuning used the instrument Zevon had gifted to Letterman.
- Zevon’s honor followed years of eligibility without a nomination until 2023, with his son Jordan noting the grassroots push that kept his candidacy alive.
- The ceremony streamed live on Disney+, with an ABC special set for Jan. 1 and next‑day streaming on Hulu.
- This year’s class also included Bad Company, Chubby Checker, Joe Cocker, Cyndi Lauper, Outkast, Soundgarden, the White Stripes, Salt‑N‑Pepa, and Musical Excellence honorees Carole Kaye, Thom Bell, and Nicky Hopkins.