David Letterman will induct Pearl Jam into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame on Friday during a ceremony in Brooklyn, with the retired "Late Show" host replacing an ill Neil Young.
Letterman has been a longtime fan of Pearl Jam, with the group making seven appearances on his television show over the years, Rolling Stone magazine noted. The induction ceremony will air on HBO on April 29, and a special exhibit dedicated to the 2017 class will open at the Rock Hall in Cleveland on March 31.
Pearl Jam's lead singer Eddie Vedder appeared during Letterman's final week of shows in 2015, performing the band's song "Better Man," according to People magazine.
A statement about Letterman's appearance at the ceremony, which is being held at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, was posted on the hall's Facebook page.
"Due to illness, Neil Young is regrettably no longer able to induct Pearl Jam at this year's induction ceremony," the statement said. "The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is thrilled that David Letterman has agreed to induct the band this Friday night at the 32nd Annual Induction Ceremony. We're wishing Neil a speedy recovery."
Pearl Jam will be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with ELO, Joan Baez, Journey, Tupac Shakur, and Yes. Guitarist Nile Rodgers will be given the hall's Award for Musical Excellence, the Hall of Fame said on its website.
Performers are eligible for inclusion in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame 25 years after the release of their first recording.
On social media, fans wished Young well while welcoming Letterman.
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