The South’s got something to say … Again!
Hip-hop royalty has once again secured its place in history as Outkast earns a well-deserved first-time nomination for the 2025 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Variety reports. The Atlanta-bred duo, André 3000 and Big Boi, revolutionized hip-hop, proving that the “Dirty South” was more than ready to stand alongside the genre’s East and West Coast powerhouses. With their eclectic style, thought-provoking lyricism, and genre-blurring sound, Outkast didn’t just dominate hip-hop—they transcended it.
This nomination is a testament to their enduring influence. From their 1994 debut Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik to the Grammy-winning, culture-shifting Speakerboxxx/The Love Below, Outkast continuously pushed the boundaries of what rap music could be. Their tracks became anthems, their albums became landmarks, and their presence in music became undeniable. Songs like “Ms. Jackson,” “B.O.B. (Bombs Over Baghdad),” and “Hey Ya!” not only topped the charts but redefined sonic possibilities for a new generation of hip-hop artists.
But Outkast’s impact extends beyond the music. Their success uplifted an entire region, solidifying Atlanta as a dominant force in hip-hop. As founding members of the Dungeon Family collective, they paved the way for future ATL icons like T.I., Ludacris, Future, and Migos. Their fearless creativity can be felt in the artistry of Kendrick Lamar, the afro-futurism of Janelle Monáe, and the boundary-breaking individuality of Tyler, the Creator.
This nomination places them alongside other first-time nominees like Billy Idol, Chubby Checker, and Phish, as well as returning names like Mariah Carey and Oasis. The inductees will be determined by a 1,200-member voting body, with winners announced in April and the official ceremony taking place in Los Angeles later this fall.
Whether they take home the honor this year or not, one thing is certain: Outkast has already secured their place in the pantheon of musical greats. And as André 3000 declared at the 1995 Source Awards, “The South got something to say.” Nearly 30 years later, the world is still listening.
Cover photo: Outkast Earns Nomination for the 2025 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame/Photo credit: Reed Saxon/Associated Press