The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame has announced its latest inductees, which include Phil Collins, Iron Maiden, Billy Idol, Queen Latifah, Oasis, Sade, and Joy Division/New Order. Wu-Tang Clan and the late Luther Vandross were also named as first-time nominees during the recent airing of American Idol. To be eligible for induction, artists must have released their first commercial recording at least 25 years ago. The selection process involved over 1,200 artists, historians, and music industry professionals casting their votes.
Phil Collins, known for hits like “In the Air Tonight” and “One More Night,” earned his spot in the hall on his first ballot appearance. Sade, recognized for tracks such as “Smooth Operator” and “The Sweetest Taboo,” was a nominee in 2024. Iron Maiden, a pivotal figure in British heavy metal with albums like “The Number of the Beast,” had been nominated twice before. Luther Vandross, who passed away in 2005, left a lasting impact with songs like “Here and Now” and “Any Love,” influencing artists like Kendrick Lamar and SZA.
This year’s induction ceremony, scheduled for Nov. 14 at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, will honor Manchester’s post-punk pioneers Joy Division and New Order, as well as the reunited Britpop band Oasis. Billy Idol, known for hits such as “White Wedding” and “Rebel Yell,” will also be recognized alongside other notable inductees.
Apart from the performer category, special committee categories like early influence, musical excellence, and the Ahmet Ertegun Non-Performer Award will also acknowledge individuals like Queen Latifah, Celia Cruz, Fela Kuti, MC Lyte, Gram Parsons, Linda Creed, Arif Mardin, Jimmy Miller, Rick Rubin, and the late Ed Sullivan. The induction ceremony will be televised in December on ABC and Disney+, with plans to return to Cleveland next year.
Unfortunately, artists like Mariah Carey, Lauryn Hill, INXS, Melissa Etheridge, Jeff Buckley, Pink, New Edition, and Shakira did not make it into the class of 2026. Last year’s inductees included a diverse range of musicians like Cyndi Lauper, Outkast, Soundgarden, Salt-N-Pepa, The White Stripes, and more.