The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame has unveiled its 2026 inductees, with the announcement made live during American Idol by Ryan Seacrest and Lionel Richie. This year’s selections highlight a wide-ranging mix of influential artists across genres, along with notable figures honored for their broader impact on music.
Leading the Performer Category are Phil Collins, Billy Idol, Iron Maiden, Joy Division/New Order, Oasis, Sade, Luther Vandross, and Wu-Tang Clan. Collins earns a second induction, having previously been recognized as part of Genesis. Notably, Collins, Vandross, and Wu-Tang Clan were all first-time nominees, while several others had been considered in prior years before finally securing a spot.
Additional honors extend beyond performers. Celia Cruz, Fela Kuti, Queen Latifah, MC Lyte, and Gram Parsons will receive the Early Influence Award. The Musical Excellence Award goes to Linda Creed, Arif Mardin, Jimmy Miller, and Rick Rubin, while legendary television host Ed Sullivan is being recognized with the Ahmet Ertegun Award.
“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,” said chairman John Sykes.
To qualify for induction, artists must have released their first commercial recording at least 25 years prior to nomination. While several acts broke through this year, others—including New Edition, P!nk, INXS, The Black Crowes, Jeff Buckley, Shakira, Lauryn Hill, Melissa Etheridge, and Mariah Carey—did not make the final cut. Carey, in particular, remains among a small group of artists with multiple nominations but no induction.
The ceremony is scheduled for November 14, 2026, at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, and will later air in December on ABC and Disney+ (with the event set to return to Cleveland in 2027.) Ticket details are expected to be announced at a later date.
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