The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame has once again rolled out the red carpet, honoring legends like Chubby Checker and OutKast, while others, like Mariah Carey, are left wondering if they need to twist a little harder.

This year's induction ceremony showcased a blend of rock legends and influential figures, with Chubby Checker, Joe Cocker, Cyndi Lauper, and OutKast finally getting their moment to shine. However, notable snubs like Mariah Carey are left wondering if they should have taken a few more musical twists and turns—because if the Hall of Fame were a dance floor, it seems some artists just can’t find the right beat to get in.

Chubby Checker, renowned for his danceable hits 'The Twist' and its sequel 'Let's Twist Again', has solidified his place in rock 'n' roll history. He is not just a musician; he’s a cardio workout in a polka-dot suit. Meanwhile, Joe Cocker, whose unmistakably gravelly voice graced the landmark 1969 Woodstock Festival, was honored posthumously. His impersonation of The Beatles' 'With a Little Help From My Friends' still resonates with anyone who has ever shared a drink or a good cry with friends after a tough breakup—preferably while reflecting on life in a dimly lit pub where the jukebox is still cranking out vintage tracks.

Cyndi Lauper, who burst onto the scene in the 1980s with phenomenally catchy tunes like 'Time After Time' and 'Girls Just Want to Have Fun', brought plenty of color to the stage with not just her music but also her vibrant personality and fashion sense. Rumor has it that even the Hall of Fame exhibits were inspired to don more colorful outfits in her honor. And let’s not forget the dual threat that is OutKast, comprising André 3000 and Big Boi, known for their genre-blending tracks that have garnered them six Grammys. With their innovative contributions to hip-hop, they’ve spun musical straw into gold—if gold had a funky bass line and a gripping narrative twist.

The White Stripes, featuring the iconic Jack White and Meg White, made a lasting impression in the early 2000s with their raw, stripped-down sound. Their mega-hit 'Seven Nation Army' has become so universally recognized that it may as well have been written as the official anthem of suburban sports events. Soundgarden finally earned their well-deserved induction on their third attempt, joining fellow grunge titans Nirvana and Pearl Jam. For a genre that once made flannel shirts the height of fashion, it seems only right that they were finally recognized—one can only wear a ‘Seattle grunge’ label for so long before it becomes an unintentional cry for help in wardrobe choices.

This year's ceremony also saw the Musical Influence Award given to Salt-N-Pepa and the late Warren Zevon. Salt-N-Pepa continue to wield their impact over generations, proving that a little rhythm and sass can break barriers faster than a well-timed bass drop. As for Warren Zevon, whose sharp wit and unforgettable lyrics earned him a dedicated fanbase, his award serves as both a celebration of his artistry and a reminder that sometimes it pays to take yourself a little less seriously—something we all could benefit from in everyday life, particularly during a particularly disruptive Monday morning meeting.

In addition, composers Thom Bell, Nicky Hopkins, and Carol Kaye were bestowed with the Musical Excellence Award. These behind-the-scenes heroes have shaped countless hits that are now embedded deep within the auditory fabric of our lives. Kaye, often referred to as one of the most prolific session musicians, might not have always been in the spotlight, but her bass lines have surely made their way into the hearts—and dance parties—of many.

The upcoming induction ceremony for the 2025 class will take place in Los Angeles, a city where dreams and music collide. The guest list for next year could easily rival a celebrity event at the Academy Awards, with artists vying to strut their stuff down a metaphorical red carpet while reminding themselves that a musical legacy can often seem as elusive as finding a parking spot in Hollywood.

Notably, artist eligibility comes with a catch: one must have released their first commercial recording at least 25 years prior to be in the running for induction. This rule means that artists like Mariah Carey, Phish, Billy Idol, Joy Division/New Order, Maná, the Black Crowes, and Oasis are left holding their breath, perhaps wondering if they need to simply turn the dial on their radios and play the waiting game. Some may be better off forming a band called 'The Snubbed', which could be intermingled with an eclectic mix of styles from pop to grunge, ensuring that they have at least a little something for everyone.

In a world where one’s musical journey can be akin to navigating a tricky obstacle course—complete with pitfalls, surprise performance evaluations, and the occasional wardrobe malfunction—the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame stands as a glittering, if exclusive, destination. Unraveling the intricate tapestry of our musical heritage, this year's inductees offer not just a chorus of nostalgia but also a reminder that while life may lead to unexpected paths, sometimes, all you need to do is twist and shout.