Charles Esther:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(745x317:747x319):format(webp)/chubby-checker-081225-1-c08338d262de4af5bb7cf202ecae160e.jpg?resize=750,500&ssl=1 "Los Angeles: Chubby Checker Declines Rock Hall Ceremony to Perform Live")
After nearly four decades of eligibility, Chubby Checker will finally be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame this November — but he won’t be attending the Los Angeles ceremony.
The 83-year-old singer says he’ll instead spend that night performing live for his fans.
Choosing the Stage Over the Spotlight
At a recent concert, Checker told the audience that he asked his manager to ensure he’d be doing what he loves most during the induction — performing for a live audience rather than appearing on television.
When the Rock Hall requested his attendance on the ceremony date, Checker declined, explaining, “We never forget about gigs.”
Proving He’s Still Got It
The “Twist” legend says part of his decision is to show skeptics that he’s still active and thriving.
He rejected the idea of being perceived as a retired performer collecting an award, insisting he’d rather demonstrate his energy by putting on a show.
Career Legacy and First Nomination
Born Ernest Evans, Checker rose to fame with hits including The Twist, The Fly, and The Hucklebuck.
Though eligible for induction since the Hall’s inaugural class in 1986, 2025 marks his first nomination.
He will be inducted alongside Cyndi Lauper, Outkast, Bad Company, Joe Cocker, Soundgarden, and The White Stripes.
Hosting His Own Ceremony
On July 27 in Des Plaines, Illinois, Checker staged a personal celebration during a concert.
A fan-filmed video shows him being presented with an award, delivering a heartfelt speech thanking peers, fans, and the Rock Hall for making him “a member of the family.”
Honored but Independent
Checker expressed gratitude for being alive to enjoy the recognition and said the honor would forever change how he feels when passing through Cleveland, home to the Hall.
Still, he’s content with marking the milestone on his own terms, surrounded by an audience rather than industry cameras.
Not the First No-Show
Skipping the ceremony is not unprecedented.
Paul McCartney missed The Beatles’ induction in 1988, citing legal disputes, while Axl Rose opted out of attending Guns N’ Roses’ 2012 induction.
Earlier this year, bassist Carol Kaye also declined her invitation, saying the award didn’t reflect the collaborative nature of her work as a studio musician.
Ceremony Details
The 2025 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction will take place November 8 in Los Angeles and stream live on Disney+.
