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Janet Jackson has described it as “an honor” after her groundbreaking album Rhythm Nation 1814 was officially inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame during a powerful night that brought together some of the most influential names in global music history. The Recording Academy unveiled a new class of legendary works, and the moment quickly became a celebration of sound, culture, and legacy. Janet shared her excitement with On The Red Carpet’s Rocsi Diaz, while reflecting on the album’s enduring message and global impact, as she said the recognition felt meaningful and humbling.

The induction class featured a wide range of iconic projects that shaped generations, including 2Pac’s All Eyez On Me, Selena’s Amor Prohibido, Radiohead’s OK Computer, Heart’s Dreamboat Annie, Eric B. & Rakim’s Paid In Full, Nick Drake’s Pink Moon, Funkadelic’s Maggot Brain, Lucinda Williams’ Car Wheels On A Gravel Road, and Alice Coltrane’s Journey In Satchidananda. Other honored works included The Soul Stirrers’ “Jesus Gave Me Water,” Bertha “Chippie” Hill’s “Trouble In Mind,” The Rouse Brothers’ “Orange Blossom Special,” and Ella Jenkins’ You’ll Sing A Song And I’ll Sing A Song, creating a lineup that reflected decades of musical excellence.

Jimmy Jam, who helped produce Rhythm Nation 1814, explained that the creative approach focused on letting Janet Jackson remain authentic while shaping a powerful sonic identity. Meanwhile, Chris Perez, husband of late Tejano star Selena, spoke emotionally about how fans continue to preserve her legacy, saying their love keeps her music alive across generations.

Heart members Ann and Nancy Wilson also reflected on their induction, noting how surreal the recognition feels while expressing pride in opening doors for younger female artists in rock. Eric B. described the moment as a “full-circle honor,” while Rakim emphasized the importance of underground music gaining historic recognition through the Grammy Hall of Fame.

The legacy of 2Pac also stood tall at the event, as family members Malik and Nzingha highlighted how his influence stretches globally through murals, culture, and continued generational admiration. Collaborator E.D.I. Mean added that Tupac would have felt deeply honored, describing him as an artist who always understood his own legendary status.

The evening also celebrated Norah Jones, who received the Ray Charles Architect of Sound Award. She said she continues to draw inspiration from Ray Charles’ ability to make every performance uniquely his own, a standard she strives to uphold in her own artistry. The gala also doubled as a fundraising platform for the Grammy Museum’s education programs, reinforcing its cultural mission beyond celebration.

Overall, the Grammy Hall of Fame induction night stood as a powerful reminder of how music continues to shape identity, history, and generations. From Janet Jackson’s Rhythm Nation 1814 to 2Pac, Selena, and Radiohead, the celebration honored timeless creativity that still influences global sound today.