Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Announces 2026 Nominees

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame has revealed the nominees for its 2026 class, boasting a diverse lineup of artists spanning multiple genres. The announcement, made on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, includes iconic performers like Mariah Carey, Oasis and Lauryn Hill.

Who Made the List?

Joining Carey, Hill, and Oasis are Pink, Phil Collins, and Shakira. The ballot also features The Black Crowes, Jeff Buckley, Melissa Etheridge, Billy Idol, INXS, Iron Maiden, Joy Division/Modern Order, New Edition, Sade, Luther Vandross, and Wu-Tang Clan. This marks the first nomination for several artists, including Luther Vandross, Lauryn Hill, Wu-Tang Clan, Jeff Buckley, Melissa Etheridge, INXS, New Edition, Shakira, and P!NK [Rolling Stone].

Eligibility and the Induction Process

Artists become eligible for induction 25 years after the release of their first commercial recording, meaning this year’s nominees released their debut work in 2001 or earlier [The Hollywood Reporter]. Phil Collins is already an inductee as a member of Genesis (inducted in 2010), but this is his first nomination as a solo artist.

What Happens Next?

The official inductees will be announced in April, alongside the recipients of the Musical Influence Award, the Musical Excellence Award, and the Ahmet Ertegun Award, which recognizes a prolific music industry veteran [The Hollywood Reporter]. The induction ceremony is scheduled to take place in the fall.

A Diverse Class Reflecting Rock & Roll’s Evolution

John Sykes, chairman of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Foundation, emphasized the diversity of the nominees, stating, “This diverse list of talented nominees recognizes the ever-evolving faces and sounds of Rock & Roll and its continued impact on youth culture.” He added that induction is “music’s highest honor” [The Hollywood Reporter].

Iron Maiden’s Perspective

Notably, Iron Maiden frontman Bruce Dickinson has previously expressed a dismissive view of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, calling it “an utter and complete load of bollocks” and criticizing its American-centric perspective [Rolling Stone].