The singer opened the ceremony with her rendition of Rock Hall inductee Carole King’s song, “Will You Love Me Tomorrow”. When first released in 1960, the song topped the Billboard Hot 100 at number 1.
King wrote the song with her first husband, Gerry Goffin, and the pair was inducted into the Rock Hall as songwriters in 1990. However, on Saturday night, King was inducted a second time, but this time as a performer.
Taylor Swift honours Carole King with induction speech
During her speech, Swift mentioned her parents “who taught me the basic truths of life as they saw it,” among them that “Carole King is the greatest songwriter of all time.”
She further proceeded to thank King for “navigating the politics of an era that didn’t make space for a female genius. Slowly but surely Carole King worked to create one, and it will be hers forever.”
In return, King thanked Taylor Swift for “carrying the torch forward” and referring to her as “my professional granddaughter”.
King proceeded to “own” her accomplishments as she reminded the audience of a legend in the music industry who paved the way for so many – Aretha Franklin.
“I keep hearing it, so I’m gonna have to try to own it, that today’s female singers and songwriters stand on my shoulder,” said King. “Let it not be forgotten they also stand on the shoulders of the first woman to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. May she rest in power — Miss Aretha Franklin,”