Steven Tyler--frontman for the already-inducted Aerosmith--introduced Australian rockers AC/DC, who were honored in their third year of eligibility after being passed over twice. The quintet performed the anthemic "Highway to Hell" and "You Shook Me All Night Long."

No Doubt singer Gwen Stefani inducted the Police, who performed together for the first time in 18 years. Guitarist Andy Summers joked during the group's acceptance speech that "there's absolutely no ego in our band whatsoever." The trio--Summers, Sting and drummer Stewart Copeland--performed their hits "Roxanne," "Message in a Bottle" and "Every Breath You Take." Tyler, Stefani and singer-songwriter John Mayer joined the group during the latter song.

Audioslave (and former Rage Against the Machine) guitarist Tom Morello and U2 guitarist the Edge presided over the Clash's induction. Surviving members Mick Jones, Paul Simonon and Terry Chimes accepted the award along with Strummer's widow.

Elton John inducted Elvis Costello and the Attractions, who failed to mark the occasion with a full-fledged reunion performance. Bassist Bruce Thomas, with whom Costello has often feuded, accepted his trophy and reportedly left the venue immediately. Costello and his current band subsequently performed "Pump It Up" and a medley comprising "Deep, Dark Truthful Mirror" and Smokey Robinson's "You Really Got a Hold on Me," as well as "(What's So Funny 'bout) Peace, Love and Understanding."

John's friend and frequent touring partner Billy Joel inducted the Righteous Brothers--Bobby Hatfield and Bill Medley--who performed their best-known hit, "You've Lost that Lovin' Feelin'." Joel--who recently lost control of his Mercedes and hit a tree--during his remarks jokingly sent a message to the Police's Sting, telling the singer--who has organized concerts to benefit threatened rain forests--that no tree on Long Island (the site of Joel's accident) is safe.

A number of inductees and presenters made comments opposing the widely expected war in Iraq, including Neil Young, who--while inducting Warner Bros. Records' Mo Ostin--said, "Tonight we're having a good time, but we're going to kill a lot of people next week. Let's not forget about that ... We're making a huge mistake."

On Sunday (3/16), VH1 will air highlights from the ceremony.

Artists become eligible for induction into the Rock Hall's ranks 25 years after the release of their first record. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Foundation's nominating committee, which is "composed of rock and roll historians," selects eligible nominees, and ballots are then sent to "an international voting body of about 1,000 rock experts," according to the Rock Hall's official website.

The actual Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is located in Cleveland.