The biggest question about tonight’s Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center tonight (11/3) has been “Might Kate Bush actually show up?” It seemed highly unlikely, she’s not a fan of airplanes, but the thought of the possibility was exciting. Sadly, Kate has confirmed today that she will not be in attendance. Here’s her statement in full:
I am completely blown away by this huge honour – an award that sits in the big beating heart of the American music industry.
Thank you so much to everyone who voted for me. I never imagined I would be given this wonderful accolade.
Last year was such a surprisingly successful time for my track Running Up That Hill and I’m sure that a lot of you who’ve voted me in to the RRHOF also drove that track up the charts. Thank you!
I’m afraid I won’t be able to attend the ceremony tonight, but for me the real honour is knowing that you felt I deserved it.
The RRHOF has welcomed me into the most extraordinary rostrum of overwhelming talent.
When I was growing up my hero was Elton John. I poured over his music, longed to be able to play piano like him and longed to write songs that could move people in the way his work moved me.
That little girl in South East London could never have dreamed she’d be sharing the event tonight with Bernie Taupin, Elton’s writing partner, an incredible lyricist who inspired me to keep writing songs – to keep trying. Congratulations Bernie! Congratulations to everyone who is being inducted tonight!
Music is at the core of who I am and, like all musicians, being on the journey of trying to create something musically interesting is rife with feelings of doubt and insecurity.
I’m only five foot three, but today I feel a little taller.
Kate
Kate is among this year’s inductees that also include Rage Against the Machine, Missy Elliott, Sheryl Crow, Willie Nelson, George Michael, and The Spinners.
Those who will be in attendance, either performing or presenting, include Elton John, Brandi Carlile, Dave Matthews, H.E.R., Chris Stapleton, St. Vincent, New Edition, Stevie Nicks, Adam Levine, Carrie Underwood, Common, Ice-T, LL Cool J, Miguel, Queen Latifah and Sia.
This is the first year the Rock Hall induction ceremony will be broadcast live and you can watch via Disney+ starting at 8 PM EST. There will also be an edited special airing on ABC on January 1 at 8 PM EST/PST.
