The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame has announced its 2026 nominees, with a diverse selection of artists spanning various genres like rap, metal, R&B, hip-hop, Britpop, blues rock, and pop. Some of the nominees include Phil Collins, Mariah Carey, Lauryn Hill, INXS, Iron Maiden, Luther Vandross, and Shakira.
The list of 17 performer nominees was unveiled, featuring artists such as Melissa Etheridge, Jeff Buckley, Pink, New Edition, Sade, and the Wu-Tang Clan. Billy Idol and Joy Division/New Order have made a comeback to the nominations, along with musical brothers The Black Crowes and Oasis.
Phil Collins, known for hits like “In the Air Tonight” and “One More Night,” has earned eight Grammy awards, while Lauryn Hill’s “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill” made history by winning the Grammy for album of the year in 1999. Mariah Carey, a third-time nominee, has had an impressive 19 No. 1 hits on the Billboard Hot 100.
INXS dominated the late 1980s charts with songs like “Need You Tonight” and “Devil Inside,” while artists like Melissa Etheridge, Iron Maiden, New Edition, Shakira, and Pink have left their mark on the music industry with their unique styles and chart-topping hits.
Ten of the nominees are first-time contenders, including Buckley, Collins, Etheridge, Hill, INXS, New Edition, Pink, Shakira, Vandross, and Wu-Tang Clan. The final inductees for 2026 will be announced in April, along with honorees recognized under special committee categories for their musical influence, excellence, and non-performer contributions.
To be eligible for induction, artists must have released their first commercial recording at least 25 years prior. The nominees will be voted on by a panel of over 1,200 artists, historians, and music industry professionals. Last year’s inductees included Cyndi Lauper, Outkast, Bad Company, and other music legends.