The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame has announced a new date for its induction ceremony, which was originally postponed due to concerns regarding the COVID-19 outbreak. The new date for this event will now take place on Saturday, November 7th at Cleveland’s Public Auditorium, where it will be broadcasted live via HBO, starting at 8 p.m. E.T.
This ceremony was set to honor a diverse array of artists this year including industrial performer Nine Inch Nails, R&B performer Whitney Houston, New York City rapper Notorious B.I.G, influential UK electronic band Depeche Mode, American rock band the Doobie Brothers and UK psychedelic band T. Rex. While there were only a limited number of cases during the time of the postponement, many municipalities and state governments have blocked private gatherings to prevent the spread of the virus.
“We are very disappointed to announce the postponement of this year’s Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony,” Rock and Roll Hall of Fame President Joel Peresman said in a statement to Rolling Stone. “Our first concern is to the health and safety of our attendees and artists and we are complying to the direction of the local and state authorities and common sense. We look forward to rescheduling the ceremony and will make that announcement at the earliest convenience.”
The COVID-19 pandemic has shut down multiple prominent events such as SXSW and Ultra. Other prominent festivals have rescheduled until the Fall such as Coachella and Stagecoach, which typically take place during the month of April.