Musicians reflect on excitement and nostalgia at Cleveland’s 1995 Rock Hall concert
The memories of the 1995 Concert For the Hall of Fame in Cleveland are a mixture of chaos, magic, and historical significance. Joyce Moore, the late soul legend Sam Moore’s widow, succinctly captures the essence of the event, describing it as “crazy” due to the crowded and hectic backstage atmosphere. Despite missed cues and various mishaps, the overall vibe was fun and spectacular, with 8,000 people in attendance. Moore’s recollection paints a vivid picture of the behind-the-scenes chaos that was all part of the experience.
The concert, a nearly seven-hour extravaganza held at Cleveland Municipal Stadium, brought together some of the music industry’s biggest names to celebrate the opening of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and Museum. The sold-out crowd of 65,000 fans witnessed special collaborations, covers, and tributes to music legends, making it a night to remember. While some performances were unforgettable, others faded from memory. Drama unfolded both on stage and during rehearsals, adding to the overall allure of the event.
Reflecting on the significance of the concert, Gin Blossoms frontman Robin Wilson expressed pride in being invited to participate, highlighting the honor that came with being included among music’s elite. For many artists, the event was a unique opportunity to celebrate their own music while paying homage to those who paved the way for their success.
One of the standout moments of the concert was Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band’s performance. After reuniting the band earlier in the year for a special project, Springsteen led the group in a memorable set that included backing music legends Jerry Lee Lewis and Chuck Berry. Guitarist Nils Lofgren fondly recalls the experience, noting the excitement of playing with such iconic figures and the humorous mishaps that occurred during the performance. Despite the challenges, the E Street Band’s contribution added to the historic significance of the night.
Another memorable collaboration featured Bruce Hornsby paying tribute to the late Jerry Garcia with renditions of Grateful Dead classics. Having played regularly with the Dead and inducted them into the Rock Hall in 1992, Hornsby felt a personal connection to the music and the tribute. His performance was a highlight of the evening, showcasing the camaraderie and respect among musicians who gathered to honor their musical heroes.
The backstage camaraderie further enhanced the concert experience, with artists mingling and sharing stories. From bonding with fellow musicians like Bruce Springsteen and Robbie Robertson to witnessing iconic performances by James Brown and Aretha Franklin, the backstage atmosphere was filled with excitement and mutual admiration. The sense of community and collaboration among artists created a memorable and meaningful event that celebrated the power of music to unite and inspire.