The 2026 nominees for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame include a vibrant mix of artists from various genres. Phil Collins, Mariah Carey, Lauryn Hill, INXS, Iron Maiden, Luther Vandross, and Shakira are among the 17 nominees. The list showcases talents across rap, R&B, hip-hop, blues rock, and Britpop.
This year marks the return of some familiar faces, including Billy Idol and the bands Joy Division/New Order. Two sibling acts, The Black Crowes and Oasis, also join the nominations again following their recent reunions.
Let’s look at some highlights. Phil Collins is famous for hits like “In the Air Tonight” and has won eight Grammys, including album of the year for “No Jacket Required” in 1985. Lauryn Hill’s groundbreaking album “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill” made history as the first hip-hop record to win the Grammy for album of the year in 1999.
Mariah Carey, nominated in the previous two years, boasts 19 No. 1 hits on the Billboard Hot 100. Sade, known for hits like “Smooth Operator,” has captivated fans with her smooth mix of jazz and soul. The Wu-Tang Clan revolutionized rap with their iconic 1993 album, “Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers).”
Artists making their first-time appearances on the ballot include Jeff Buckley, Etheridge, and Vandross. Buckley’s album “Grace” is still celebrated today, despite his tragic passing in 1997. Vandross, who passed away in 2005, sold over 25 million albums with classics like “Here and Now.”
John Sykes, chair of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Foundation, highlighted how this diverse list reflects the evolving nature of rock and roll and its lasting impact on youth culture.
The 2026 inductees will be announced in April. These nominees are voted on by more than 1,200 artists, historians, and professionals in the music industry. Artists become eligible 25 years after their first commercial release.
This past year, notable inductees included Cyndi Lauper, Outkast, and Soundgarden, showcasing the Hall’s ongoing commitment to recognizing diverse musical contributions. As the music landscape continues to evolve, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame remains a vital institution celebrating its rich history. For more insights on the nominees and their impact, check out the official Rock and Roll Hall of Fame website.
