The 2026 Metal Hall Of Fame blowout bash brought together some of hard rock and heavy metal’s biggest names, industry heavyweights and fans for a packed night of music and celebration on January 21, 2026 along Los Angeles’ legendary Sunset Strip. The multi-venue event honored key figures in the genre and offered memorable performances across iconic West Hollywood spots.
The festivities were staged across three historic venues — Rainbow Bar & Grill, The Roxy Theatre and The Viper Room — drawing rock stars, music executives, corporate leaders and metal fans from around the world to celebrate the legacy of heavy music.
The evening started with a long-anticipated reunion as Graham Bonnet and Chris Impellitteri returned to the stage after three decades, joined by bandmates James Pulli, Ed Roth and Ken Mary. That set the tone for a night that blended nostalgia with electrifying live tributes.
The 2026 Metal Hall Of Fame inductees represented a who’s-who of ’80s hard rock and metal influence:
- Gilby Clarke (Guns N’ Roses)
- Rikki Rockett (Poison)
- Tracii Guns (L.A. Guns)
- Chris Holmes (W.A.S.P.)
- Warren DeMartini (Ratt)
Each honoree was celebrated not just with awards but with performances that highlighted their contributions to the genre.
Rockett’s induction was followed by a spirited Poison performance of classics like “Talk Dirty To Me” and “Look What The Cat Dragged In,” featuring supporting musicians including Britt Lightning (Vixen), Johnny Martin (L.A. Guns) and SiriusXM’s Tommy London.
Carlos Cavazo and friends delivered a tribute to Quiet Riot’s “Metal Health,” while L.A. Guns, fronted by Tracii Guns, ripped through a set for fans celebrating their honoree’s legacy. Gilby Clarke then took the stage with a GNR-flavored “Knockin’ On Heaven’s Door.”
The night’s momentum continued with a raucous Ratt set featuring Stephen Pearcy, Warren DeMartini, Carlos Cavazo, Matt Thorne and Blas Elias — a performance that thrilled fans and showcased the band’s enduring strength.
Closing out the evening, Chris Holmes led his solo band through a powerful W.A.S.P. segment, ending the festivities with a tribute to the late Ace Frehley of KISS.
The bash wasn’t just about performances — it also brought a wide range of personalities to the Sunset Strip, from executives at Netflix, BMG, SiriusXM and Yamaha to sports stars from Monster Energy supercross. Eddie Trunk and entertainment host Cathy Rankin emceed the night, which featured a VIP party at the Viper Room, the main induction ceremony at The Roxy and an after-party back at the Rainbow.
The Metal Hall Of Fame operates as a non-profit dedicated to honoring musicians, industry professionals and executives who helped define hard rock and metal. Its mission also includes free music programs for special-needs children and global touring highlights celebrating the genre’s history.
Founded by a group of industry figures including Pat Gesualdo, Wendy Dio, David Ellefson, Jimmy Kay, Munsey Ricci, George Johnsen, Brian Perera and Michael Sarna, the Metal Hall Of Fame has become a fixture in recognizing legendary artists overlooked by other institutions. Fans can even vote for future inductees online through the organization’s website.
From reunion jams to explosive tribute sets, the 2026 bash reaffirmed heavy music’s vibrant community and enduring legacy — and reminded the world why the Sunset Strip has long been synonymous with rock ’n’ roll greatness.
