The National Rhythm & Blues Hall of Fame Foundation has revealed the nominees for its Class of 2025, honoring some of the most iconic names in Rhythm & Blues. This year’s nominees include celebrated artists such as Sade, Earth, Wind & Fire, John Legend, Berry Gordy, The Isley Brothers, and Patti LaBelle. From a total of 40 candidates, the ten nominees with the most votes will be inducted into the Hall of Fame. 
A press conference will be held on February 12, 2025, to announce the inductees and provide information about the event schedule and locations. Fans can also purchase tickets for the Hall of Fame Music Weekend starting that day, which will celebrate the rich history and future of R&B. The induction ceremony may take place in one of three cities: Cleveland, Ohio; Detroit, Michigan; or Shreveport, Louisiana. 
Additionally, the Hall of Fame is in discussions with major cable networks to broadcast the 2025 induction ceremony, highlighting the significant impact these artists have made in music and culture. The previous induction ceremony, held in October 2024, honored legends like Jeffrey Osborne, Kenny Lattimore, Regina Belle, and more. Since its establishment in 2013, the Hall of Fame has inducted over 300 influential figures, including James Brown, Stevie Wonder, Whitney Houston, and Prince.
2025 Nominees
Sade – Singer
Beyoncé – Singer
Earth, Wind & Fire – Group
John Legend – Singer/Songwriter
Berry Gordy – Music Executive/Songwriter
Louisiana Hayride & KWKH – TV/Radio Station
Adina Howard – Singer/Songwriter
50 Cent – Rapper/Songwriter/Music Executive
Burt Bacharach – Composer/Songwriter/Producer
Clive Davis – Music Executive
Larry Buford – Songwriter
Anthony Hamilton – Singer/Songwriter
Mary J. Blige – Singer
The Apollo Theater – Historic Venue
Clifton Chenier – Musician/Songwriter
Karen Slade – Radio Executive
Jackson 5 – Group
Anita Baker – Singer
Janet Jackson – Singer
Robert Brown – Music & Event Promoter
George Clinton – Performer/Songwriter
Jr. Walker & The All-Stars – Group
Rufus Thomas – Singer
The Isley Brothers – Group
Mavis Staples – Singer
Chaka Khan – Singer
SWV – Group
Xscape – Group
Willie Clayton – Singer
Lead Belly – Singer
Pokey Bear – Singer/Songwriter
Men at Large – Group
Peabo Bryson – Singer
Deniece Williams – Singer
Luther “Skywalker” Campbell – Rapper/Music Executive/Songwriter
Freddie Jackson – Singer
Gamble & Huff – Songwriters
Average White Band – Group
Blue Magic – Group
Jodeci – Group
