The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame has officially rolled out its 2026 nominees, and the ballot reads like a master class in modern music history.
Seventeen artists and groups are in the running this year, representing a broad sweep of styles that underscore how expansive the definition of rock and roll has become. From stadium rock staples to R&B royalty, from alternative trailblazers to hip-hop pioneers, the class of hopefuls reflects decades of cultural impact and musical evolution.
Among the nominees are The Black Crowes, Jeff Buckley, Mariah Carey, Phil Collins, Melissa Etheridge, Lauryn Hill, Billy Idol, INXS, Iron Maiden, Joy Division / New Order, New Edition, Oasis, P!NK, Sade, Shakira, Luther Vandross and Wu-Tang Clan.
The diversity of the list stands out immediately. Iron Maiden and Oasis bring arena-ready rock credentials, while Joy Division / New Order represent post-punk and electronic innovation. Mariah Carey and Sade helped define contemporary pop and soul, while Luther Vandross remains one of R&B’s most celebrated voices. Wu-Tang Clan’s nomination reinforces hip-hop’s firmly established place in the Hall’s narrative, and Shakira’s global reach highlights Latin pop’s undeniable influence.
Ten of this year’s nominees are appearing on the ballot for the first time, adding an element of fresh anticipation to the process. Others return after previous nominations, hoping that 2026 will finally be their year.
To qualify for nomination, artists must have released their first commercial recording at least 25 years ago, a benchmark that ensures both historical perspective and lasting influence factor into the conversation. The final class of inductees will be announced in April 2026, with the induction ceremony set to take place later in the fall.
As always, the nominations are likely to spark debate among fans and industry insiders alike. But if this year’s ballot proves anything, it is that the Hall continues to widen its lens, recognizing that rock and roll is less a strict genre and more a living, evolving spirit that connects generations of music lovers.