The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame has officially unveiled its Class of 2026 nominees, announcing a 17-artist ballot that blends rock legends, pop superstars, R&B innovators and hip-hop pioneers. The nominees were revealed on February 25, 2026, kicking off months of debate before the final inductees are announced this spring.
Full List of 2026 Performer Nominees
•Phil Collins (solo)
•INXS
•P!NK
•Sade
Of the 17 nominees, 10 are first-time contenders, while 7 return to the ballot after previous nominations.
First-Time Nominees
Artists appearing on the ballot for the first time include Jeff Buckley, Phil Collins (already inducted with Genesis in 2010), Melissa Etheridge, Lauryn Hill, INXS, New Edition, P!NK, Shakira, Luther Vandross and Wu-Tang Clan. The group reflects the Hall’s continued expansion beyond traditional rock into hip-hop, R&B and global pop.
Returning Nominees
Returning artists include The Black Crowes, Mariah Carey, Billy Idol, Iron Maiden, Joy Division/New Order, Oasis and Sade. Several — including Carey, Iron Maiden and Oasis — are now on their third nomination, highlighting the competitive and often unpredictable voting process.
Eligibility and Voting Process
To be eligible, artists must have released their first commercial recording at least 25 years ago. More than 1,200 voters — including artists, historians and industry professionals — will cast ballots. A public fan vote is also held and counts as one aggregated ballot toward the final tally.
The Class of 2026 inductees will be announced in April 2026, with the induction ceremony scheduled for fall 2026 in Cleveland, Ohio, home of the Rock Hall.
Why This Year Stands Out
The 2026 ballot is notable for its genre diversity. From metal giants like Iron Maiden to hip-hop pioneers Wu-Tang Clan, from pop icons Mariah Carey and Shakira to alternative legends Oasis and Joy Division/New Order, the lineup reflects how broadly the Hall now defines “rock and roll” — focusing on cultural impact and influence rather than a single sound.
With major fan bases mobilizing behind their favorites, the debate over who belongs — and who’s overdue — is already underway.
