The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame has revealed its Class of 2026, honoring a wide range of artists who helped shape modern music across rock, metal, soul and hip-hop. The inductees were announced during a special episode of American Idol, with host Ryan Seacrest and music legend Lionel Richie sharing the news.
Among the most talked-about names entering the Hall this year are Oasis, Phil Collins, Iron Maiden, Billy Idol and Wu-Tang Clan. They will be joined by Joy Division / New Order, soul legend Luther Vandross and the iconic British singer-songwriter Sade Adu.
The class highlights how broad the definition of “rock and roll” has become, celebrating artists from several musical eras and styles. Britpop giants Oasis finally secured induction after multiple nominations, while heavy-metal icons Iron Maiden also entered the Hall after years of debate about their absence from the institution.
For Phil Collins, the honor marks a special milestone. The singer-songwriter was already inducted as a member of Genesis in 2010, but this year marks his first time being recognized as a solo artist.
The list also includes artists who achieved the honor on their first nomination, including Wu-Tang Clan and Luther Vandross, both of whom had never previously appeared on the ballot.
Beyond the main performer category, the Hall also announced several special honors. The Early Influence Award will recognize pioneers including Fela Kuti, Celia Cruz, Queen Latifah, MC Lyte and Gram Parsons for their groundbreaking contributions to music.
Meanwhile, the Musical Excellence Award will honor influential industry figures including producer Rick Rubin, alongside songwriters and producers such as Linda Creed, Arif Mardin and Jimmy Miller.
The Ahmet Ertegun Award, given to individuals who significantly influenced the music industry behind the scenes, will go to legendary television host Ed Sullivan, whose famous show helped introduce countless artists to mainstream audiences.
The 2026 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony is scheduled to take place on November 14, 2026, at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, with a broadcast special planned for television and streaming platforms later in the year.
Each year the Hall’s voting body — made up of more than a thousand music historians, industry professionals and artists — selects inductees from a larger group of nominees. To be eligible, an artist must have released their first commercial recording at least 25 years earlier and must demonstrate lasting influence on the music world.
This year’s nominations included several high-profile artists who ultimately did not make the final class, such as Mariah Carey, Lauryn Hill and Shakira.
With names spanning rock, metal, hip-hop and soul, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Class of 2026 reflects the ever-expanding definition of the genre — celebrating artists who helped shape decades of musical history.
