At the 40th annual Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony in Los Angeles on November 8, 2025, music history was celebrated with passion and reverence — and none more so than the late Joe Cocker, whose soulful voice and transformative covers earned him a long-overdue place in the Rock Hall. Cocker, who passed away in 2014, was inducted posthumously in a star-studded tribute that closed the evening with a rousing performance of his signature song: “With a Little Help From My Friends.”
Why “With a Little Help From My Friends” Matters
Though originally written and recorded by The Beatles in 1967, Cocker’s 1968 interpretation of “With a Little Help From My Friends” became iconic for its gritty, soulful energy and dramatic arrangement. That version not only helped launch his career — it also became beloved by generations of fans and is widely considered the definitive rock-soul take on a classic tune.
In fact, Cocker’s connection to this song runs deep: it became his first major breakthrough and was a highlight of his set at Woodstock in 1969, where his wild performance helped cement his reputation as one of rock’s most visceral live performers.
Making the Song His Own
The Rock Hall tribute underscored the unique place Cocker holds in rock history: not just as a singer, but as an interpreter of songs. As Bryan Adams noted during the ceremony, Cocker had a rare ability to take songs originally recorded by others — such as The Beatles’ classic — and transform them into something deeply personal and powerful.
Artists and fans alike have long admired Cocker’s version of “With a Little Help From My Friends,” with many arguing that his version stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the original — a testament to his influence on rock and soul music alike.
