The Foo Fighters ignited the Kennedy Center Honors audience with a blistering rendition of Led Zeppelin’s timeless anthem, “Rock and Roll.” Behind the kit, Dave Grohl’s thunderous drumming laid a fierce foundation, while the late Taylor Hawkins emerged front and center, channeling his charisma and raw energy into commanding the stage. His gritty vocals paid heartfelt tribute to Zeppelin’s legacy, demonstrating Hawkins’s extraordinary range and passion.
As the band tore through the 1971 classic, rock icons Robert Plant and Jimmy Page watched from the crowd, their faces lighting up in admiration. In that moment, the Foo Fighters bridged generations—honoring the raw spirit of rock’s heyday while infusing it with their unmistakable modern intensity.
A Legendary Collaboration: Paul McCartney Joins the Foos
The excitement peaked when Sir Paul McCartney closed the evening with a rollicking take on The Beatles’ “Get Back.” McCartney and Grohl traded playful falsetto lines, sharing the spotlight and a single microphone in an electrifying partnership. Their joyful exchange and tight-knit groove created a celebratory finale that left everyone on their feet.
A Milestone Evening
For the Foo Fighters, already Hall of Famers in their debut year of eligibility—mirroring Nirvana’s milestone—the ceremony held deep significance. Grohl reflected on Nirvana’s 2014 induction, bittersweet without Kurt Cobain, and expressed profound gratitude for this moment of collective triumph. From honoring rock royalty to jamming with one of the greatest songwriters in history, the Foo Fighters reaffirmed their place at the forefront of today’s rock landscape.
Watch the performances below, and be sure to share these unforgettable moments with friends and family.