the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame announced its 2026 Inductees

The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame announced the class of 2026 on American Idol. There are some big hitters from the 1980s entering this year including Phil Collins, for his solo career. Collins is already a member of the Hall of Fame as a member of the group Genesis, who was inducted in 2010

Also part of the Class of 2026; Billy Idol, Iron Maiden, Sade, Luther Vandross, Queen Latifah, Wu-Tang Clan and probably the best producer of the 80s and 90s, Rick Rubin.

The 2026 Induction Ceremony is set for Saturday, November 14, in Los Angeles, California, and will debut on ABC and Disney+ in December 

Read the full press release below:

Tonight, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Foundation announced its 2026 Inductees, spotlighting a standout group of artists whose impact has left a lasting mark on music and culture. Revealed live on ABC and Disney+ by Ryan Seacrest and 2022 Inductee Lionel Richie during the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame-themed episode of American Idol, the announcement kicks off the countdown to celebrate music’s highest honor. 

Performer Category: 

• Phil Collins 
• Billy Idol 
• Iron Maiden 
• Joy Division/New Order 
• Oasis 
• Sade 
• Luther Vandross 
• Wu-Tang Clan 

Early Influence Award: 

• Celia Cruz 
• Fela Kuti 
• Queen Latifah 
• MC Lyte 
• Gram Parsons 

Musical Excellence Award: 

• Linda Creed 
• Arif Mardin 
• Jimmy Miller  
• Rick Rubin 

Ahmet Ertegun Award: 

• Ed Sullivan 

“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 John Sykes, Chairman of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. 

To be eligible for induction, an individual artist or band must have released its first commercial recording at least 25 years prior to the year of nomination. Phil Collins, Luther Vandross, and Wu-Tang Clan are first-time nominees. Billy Idol, Iron Maiden, Joy Division/New Order, Oasis, and Sade have all been nominated in the past.

The Induction categories include:   

• Performers: artists who have created music whose originality, impact, and influence has changed the course of rock & roll.  
• Early Influence Award: artists whose music and performance style have directly influenced, inspired, and evolved rock & roll and music impacting culture.   
• Musical Excellence Award: given to artists, musicians, songwriters, and producers whose originality and influence have had a dramatic impact on music. 
• Ahmet Ertegun Award: non-performing industry professionals who have had a major influence on the creative development and growth of rock & roll and music that has impacted culture. 

About the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame 

Born from the collision of rhythm & blues, country, and gospel, rock & roll is a spirit that is inclusive and ever-changing. The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame celebrates the sound of youth culture and honors the artists whose music connects us all. We share stories of the people, events, and songs that shape our world through digital content, innovative exhibits, live music, engaging programs, and our annual Induction Ceremony.

We intentionally foster an inclusive and welcoming non-profit Museum that encourages and embraces creativity and innovation. As a community leader, we value, empower, and respect all people. Join the millions who love rock & roll as much as you do.

Visit us in Cleveland, Ohio or at rockhall.com