Though Bad Company singer Paul Rodgers and drummer Simon Kirke have previously expressed excitement about reuniting for a performance at the band’s Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction on Nov. 8, Rodgers has since revealed that he will not be able to partake in the show as planned.
On Nov. 3, via the band’s official Instagram, Rodgers wrote, “My hope was to be at the Rock & Rock Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and to perform for the fans, but at this time I have to prioritize my health. I have no problem singing, it’s the stress of everything else. Thanks for understanding. Simon along with some outstanding musicians will be stepping in for me – guaranteed to rock.”
Over the past decade, Rodgers has suffered 11 minor strokes and two major strokes. His reunion with Kirke would have marked the pair’s first performance since 2019. As recently as Oct. 28, Kirke shared plans to perform with Gold Derby, telling the publication, “I think the secret is out that we will perform,” before “cautiously” confirming. “I’m not at liberty to say which songs,” he added. “I mean, quite honestly, I don’t give a s–t. We’re going to play, and whatever Paul chooses is fine by me! Just to play with him again is going to be a real thrill for me. I missed him.”
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Rodgers himself hinted at the performance to Rolling Stone, saying, “Well, we may well. We’ll see how we go.” He added that the Rock Hall has told them “They want us to, and I may. I haven’t decided what songs to sing at this point in time. But it could be ‘Rock ‘n’ Roll Fantasy.’”
Iggy Pop, Olivia Rodrigo, Elton John, David Letterman, and Beck are also set to appear at the induction ceremony. Chubby Checker, Joe Cocker, Cyndi Lauper, OutKast, Soundgarden, the White Stripes, Salt-N-Pepa, Warren Zevon, Thom Bell, Nicky Hopkins, Carol Kaye and Lenny Waronker will also be honored.
