Cher Celebrates Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction: “Getting Divorced Was Easier”

After five decades of captivating audiences, Cher has officially been inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. The 78-year-old music icon performed her beloved 1998 hit “Believe” alongside Dua Lipa during the induction ceremony held in Cleveland, Ohio.

During her acceptance speech, Cher lightheartedly remarked on the challenges of gaining entry into this prestigious club. “It was easier getting divorced from two men than it was getting into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame,” she quipped, showcasing her signature blend of humor and resilience.

Cher’s journey to this momentous achievement has not been without its ups and downs. She was previously married to singer Sonny Bono from 1964 to 1974, with whom she shares a son, Chaz Bono. Tragically, Sonny passed away in 1998 following a skiing accident. Cher’s second marriage was to musician Gregg Allman, a member of the Allman Brothers Band. They were married from 1975 until their divorce in 1979, and they had a son, Elijah Blue. Allman succumbed to liver cancer in 2017.

In her heartfelt speech, Cher honored her late mother, Georgia Holt, expressing gratitude for instilling in her the importance of perseverance. “As my mother would say, ‘lower than a snake’s belly.’ That’s how down I’ve been,” Cher shared. She reflected on the many obstacles she faced throughout her career, admitting, “People have told me that I was finished, that I was through, that I had 10 minutes. The one thing that I think I got from my mom is I never gave up.”

Cher’s career has seen its share of challenges, including being dropped by four record labels. Yet, it was her 1998 hit “Believe” that marked a major comeback. “When it was completely over, I did ‘Believe,’ and it was like, ‘Yes!’ I’ve just been really lucky, and I have had number ones for seven decades, which surprises me, because I’m a good singer. I’m not a great singer,” she admitted.

Supporting her at the ceremony was her 38-year-old boyfriend, music producer Alexander “AE” Edwards. The couple walked hand-in-hand down the red carpet, radiating happiness despite facing scrutiny over their nearly 40-year age difference. Cher has previously addressed the criticism, stating, “The reason I got with young men is because men my age are older – well, now they’re all dead – but before, they were always terrified to approach me. And younger men… they were raised by women like me.”

Cher described her first year with Edwards as “the best time,” noting that he holds a special place in her heart. “No matter what happens, I love being with him. He makes me laugh, and we have fun,” she shared, underscoring the joy their relationship brings her.

At the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction, Cher shared the spotlight with other music legends, including Mary J. Blige, Ozzy Osbourne, the Dave Matthews Band, and Kool & The Gang. This celebration of her illustrious career and lasting impact on the music industry marks a significant milestone for the artist.

As Cher continues to break barriers and redefine age norms, her induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is a testament to her enduring talent and influence. Her journey reflects not only her resilience in the face of adversity but also her ability to embrace love and happiness at every stage of her life.

With her vibrant spirit and unwavering determination, Cher remains an inspiring figure in the music world, proving that age is just a number and that passion and talent can transcend the decades. As she embarks on this new chapter, fans around the world eagerly await what she will do next, confident that Cher will continue to shine bright in the spotlight.