Complete list of everyone about to be added to Rock n Roll Hall of Fame

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame has officially revealed its Class of 2026, spotlighting a wide-ranging group of artists whose sounds stretch far beyond traditional definitions of rock music. Announced during a special episode of American Idol, this year’s list reflects the evolving nature of the genre and its deep influence across multiple styles. 

Among those honored in the performer category are Phil Collins, Billy Idol, Iron Maiden, Joy Division/New Order, Oasis, Sade, Luther Vandross and Wu-Tang Clan. While not all of these names fit neatly into the classic rock label, the Hall of Fame continues to embrace a broader interpretation of musical impact and cultural significance. 

The selection process remains rigorous. To qualify, artists must have released their first commercial recording at least 25 years ago. This year, more than 1,200 industry professionals—including musicians, historians and journalists—participated in the voting process to determine who would be inducted. 

Rock Hall chairman John Sykes emphasized the significance of the recognition, saying, “Induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is music’s highest honor. We look forward to celebrating these remarkable artists at this year’s ceremony—it’s going to be an unforgettable night.” 

Several of this year’s inductees were first-time nominees, including Phil Collins, Luther Vandross and Wu-Tang Clan. Others, such as Joy Division/New Order and Billy Idol, had appeared on previous ballots before finally securing their place. 

In addition to the performer category, special honors were also announced. The Early Influence Award will go to Celia Cruz, Fela Kuti, Queen Latifah, MC Lyte and Gram Parsons, recognizing artists who helped shape the sound and direction of modern music. The Musical Excellence Award will be presented to Linda Creed, Arif Mardin, Jimmy Miller and Rick Rubin, while the Ahmet Ertegun Award will honor Ed Sullivan. 

The road to induction began earlier this year with a diverse list of 17 nominees. That group included major names across genres such as Mariah Carey, Lauryn Hill, INXS, Shakira, Pink, New Edition and Melissa Etheridge. The nominations highlighted the Hall’s commitment to representing a wide musical spectrum, from hip-hop and R&B to metal and pop. 

Some nominees brought notable achievements to the table. Lauryn Hill’s groundbreaking album The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill became the first hip-hop record to win a Grammy for album of the year in 1999. Mariah Carey has scored 19 No. 1 hits on the Billboard Hot 100, while Wu-Tang Clan has long been celebrated as a pioneering force in rap since their 1993 debut. 

Others, like INXS and Iron Maiden, helped define entire eras of music, while artists such as Sade and Luther Vandross left lasting marks on soul and pop. 

The 2026 induction ceremony is set to take place on November 14 in Los Angeles, with a broadcast scheduled for December on Disney+. The event will return to Cleveland the following year. 

Last year’s inductees included a mix of icons such as Cyndi Lauper, Outkast, Soundgarden and The White Stripes, continuing the Hall’s tradition of honoring both legendary and genre-defying artists.