André 3000 Honored with Honorary Doctorate and Delivers Inspiring Commencement Speech at Berklee College of Music’s 2025 Ceremony

Jephthah Nana Adjei Osei - Mensah
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André 3000 Honored with Honorary Doctorate and Delivers Inspiring Commencement Speech at Berklee College of Music’s 2025 Ceremony
André Benjamin
Written By : Ekow Adjei Mensah



On May 10, 2025, André Benjamin, widely known as André 3000, was awarded an honorary Doctor of Music degree by Berklee College of Music during its commencement ceremony at Boston University’s Agganis Arena. This prestigious recognition celebrated his transformative contributions to music and culture, both as a solo artiste and as one-half of the iconic hip-hop duo Outkast. 

The honor coincided with a milestone year for André, as he was also announced as a 2025 inductee into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame alongside Outkast partner Antwan “Big Boi” Patton. His innovative work, including the groundbreaking 2023 solo album NEW BLUE SUN, which became the first instrumental album to chart on the Billboard 200, underscored his lasting impact on the global music landscape.

During the commencement ceremony, André 3000 addressed over 1,500 graduates from 75 countries, sharing reflections on his musical journey and creative evolution. He spoke nostalgically about his childhood influences, recalling how hearing Joe Jackson’s STEPPIN’ OUT inspired a sense of stepping into the future. 

His speech encouraged the graduating class to embrace their unique artistic paths, emphasizing resilience and authenticity in the face of creative challenges. The ceremony, attended by students, faculty, and families, was part of a weekend celebration that began on May 9 with a tribute concert featuring over 200 student performers honoring André and fellow honoree Sara Bareilles, who also received an honorary doctorate.

The conferral of this honorary doctorate places André 3000 among an elite group of past Berklee honorees, including Duke Ellington, Aretha Franklin, Quincy Jones, and Missy Elliott, reflecting his profound influence as an artiste and innovator. His recent projects, such as the flute-driven NEW BLUE SUN and the 7 PIANO SKECHES EP, demonstrate his fearless approach to pushing musical boundaries, inspiring the next generation of artistes.

Posts captured the excitement, with users like sharing their experience listening to his commencement speech, highlighting its emotional resonance. As André continues to redefine artistry, his presence at Berklee’s 2025 commencement served as a powerful reminder to graduates to follow their creative instincts, wherever they may lead.

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